Document Document Title
US08193635B2 Integrated circuit having memory and router disposed thereon and method of making thereof
An integrated circuit having memory disposed thereon and method of making thereof includes a standard dimension carrier substrate and an information router integrated on the carrier substrate. Further included therein is at least one system memory integrated on the carrier substrate and in electrical communication with the information router across at least one of the electrical leads associated with the carrier substrate. Thereupon, system instructions may be stored and retrieved from the system memory through the information router within the integrated circuit on the standard dimension carrier substrate.
US08193633B2 Heat conductive sheet and method for producing same, and powder module
Provided is a heat conductive sheet obtained by dispersing an inorganic filler in a thermosetting resin, in which the inorganic filler contains secondary aggregation particles formed by isotropically aggregating scaly boron nitride primary particles having an average length of 15 μm or less, and the inorganic filler contains more than 20 vol % of the secondary aggregation particles each having a particle diameter of 50 μm or more. The heat conductive sheet is advantageous in terms of productivity and cost and excellent in heat conductivity and electrical insulating properties.
US08193611B1 High performance InAs-based devices
Material layer structures that have high mobility, a high conduction band barrier and materials that can be implanted to enable higher performance FET device. The structures contain a quantum well layer disposed between two barriers and disposed above a buffer layer and a substrate.
US08193586B2 Sealing structure for high-K metal gate
The present disclosure provides a semiconductor device that includes a semiconductor substrate and a transistor formed in the substrate. The transistor includes a gate stack having a high-k dielectric and metal gate, a sealing layer formed on sidewalls of the gate stack, the sealing layer having an inner edge and an outer edge, the inner edge interfacing with the sidewall of the gate stack, a spacer formed on the outer edge of the sealing layer, and a source/drain region formed on each side of the gate stack, the source/drain region including a lightly doped source/drain (LDD) region that is aligned with the outer edge of the sealing layer.
US08193584B2 Semiconductor component including a drift zone and a drift control zone
A semiconductor component including a drift zone and a drift control zone. One embodiment provides a transistor component having a drift zone, a body zone, a source zone and a drain zone. The drift zone is arranged between the body zone and the drain zone. The body zone is arranged between the source zone and the drift zone.
US08193583B2 Monolithic output stage with vertical high-side PMOS and vertical low-side NMOS interconnected using buried metal, structure and method
A voltage converter can include an output circuit having a vertical high-side device and a vertical low-side device which can be formed on a single die (i.e. a “PowerDie”). The high side device can be a PMOS transistor, while the low side device can be an NMOS transistor. The source of the PMOS transistor and the source of the NMOS transistor can be formed from the same metal structure, with the source of the high side device electrically connected to VIN and the source of the low side device electrically connected to ground. A drain of the high side PMOS transistor can be electrically shorted to the drain of the low side NMOS transistor during device operation using a metal layer which is interposed between the transistors and a semiconductor substrate.
US08193581B2 Trench-based power semiconductor devices with increased breakdown voltage characteristics
Exemplary power semiconductor devices with features providing increased breakdown voltage and other benefits are disclosed.
US08193580B2 Shielded gate trench MOSFET device and fabrication
A semiconductor device embodiment includes a substrate, an active gate trench in the substrate, and an asymmetric trench in the substrate. The asymmetric trench has a first trench wall and a second trench wall, the first trench wall is lined with oxide having a first thickness, and the second trench wall is lined with oxide having a second thickness that is different from the first thickness. Another semiconductor device embodiment includes a substrate, an active gate trench in the substrate; and a source polysilicon pickup trench in the substrate. The source polysilicon pickup trench includes a polysilicon electrode, and top surface of the polysilicon electrode is below a bottom of a body region. Another semiconductor device includes a substrate, an active gate trench in the substrate, the active gate trench has a first top gate electrode and a first bottom source electrode, and a gate runner trench comprising a second top gate electrode and a second bottom source electrode. The second top gate electrode is narrower than the second bottom source electrode.
US08193572B2 Electronic device including trenches and discontinuous storage elements
An electronic device can include a substrate including a first trench having a first bottom and a first wall. The electrode device can also include a first gate electrode within the first trench and adjacent to the first wall and overlying the first bottom of the first trench, and a second gate electrode within the first trench and adjacent to the first gate electrode and overlying the first bottom of the first trench. The electronic device can further include discontinuous storage elements including a first set of discontinuous storage elements, wherein the first set of the discontinuous storage elements lies between (i) the first gate electrode or the second gate electrode and (ii) the first bottom of the first trench. Processes of forming and using the electronic device are also described.
US08193564B2 Silicon carbide semiconductor device including deep layer
A silicon carbide semiconductor device includes a substrate, a drift layer located on a first surface of the substrate, a base region located on the drift layer, a source region located on the base region, a trench penetrating the source region and the base region to the drift layer, a channel layer located in the trench, a gate insulating layer located on the channel layer, a gate electrode located on the gate insulating layer, a source electrode electrically coupled with the source region and the base region, a drain electrode located on a second surface of the substrate, and a deep layer. The deep layer is located under the base region, extends to a depth deeper than the trench and is formed along an approximately normal direction to a sidewall of the trench.
US08193554B2 Optical member having photocurable resin and method for manufacturing the optical member
There is provided an optical member 1 in which a fixation member 3 supporting the light emitting member 2 is fixed to a housing 5 supporting a light receiving member 4, so as to have clearances between the fixation member 3 and the housing 5, by photocurable resin 6 bridging the clearances, recesses 7 that adjoin positions where the photocurable resin 6 is deposited, that are opened so as to allow casting of light into the recesses 7, and that are to receive portions of the photocurable resin 6 are formed on the housing 5.
US08193551B2 LED packaging structure and fabricating method thereof
A LED (light emitting diode) packaging structure includes a base, a LED chip, a gel-blocking structure and a phosphor layer. The LED chip disposed on the base and electrically connected to the base. The LED chip having a substrate and a semiconductor layer formed on the substrate. The gel-blocking structure is disposed on the substrate of the LED chip and surrounding the semiconductor layer. The phosphor layer is filled within a space defined by the gel-blocking structure, the substrate and the semiconductor layer. The present invention also discloses a fabricating method of the LED packaging structure.
US08193550B2 Method for manufacturing a micro-electro-mechanical device, in particular an optical microswitch, and micro-electro-mechanical device thus obtained
A method for manufacturing a micro-electro-mechanical device, which has supporting parts and operative parts, includes providing a first semiconductor wafer, having a first layer of semiconductor material and a second layer of semiconductor material arranged on top of the first layer, forming first supporting parts and first operative parts of the device in the second layer, forming temporary anchors in the first layer, and bonding the first wafer to a second wafer, with the second layer facing the second wafer. After bonding the first wafer and the second wafer together, second supporting parts and second operative parts of said device are formed in the first layer. The temporary anchors are removed from the first layer to free the operative parts formed therein.
US08193547B2 Leadframe-based packages for solid state light emitting devices and methods of forming leadframe-based packages for solid state light emitting devices
A modular package for a light emitting device includes a leadframe having a top surface and including a central region having a bottom surface and having a first thickness between the top surface of the leadframe and the bottom surface of the central region. The leadframe may further include an electrical lead extending away from the central region. The electrical lead has a bottom surface and has a second thickness from the top surface of the leadframe to the bottom surface of the electrical lead. The second thickness may be less than the first thickness. The package further includes a package body on the leadframe surrounding the central region and exposing the bottom surface of the central region. The package body may be at least partially provided beneath the bottom surface of the lead and adjacent the bottom surface of the central region. Methods of forming modular packages and leadframes are also disclosed.
US08193539B2 Compound semiconductor device using SiC substrate and its manufacture
A compound semiconductor device includes: a conductive SiC substrate; an AlN buffer layer formed on said conductive SiC substrate and containing Cl; a compound semiconductor buffer layer formed on said AlN layer which contains Cl, said compound semiconductor buffer layer not containing Cl; and a device constituent layer or layers formed above said compound semiconductor buffer layer not containing Cl.
US08193536B2 Light emitting device
A light emitting device including a light emitting structure having a first conductive semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductive semiconductor layer; a first electrode on the light emitting structure; and a photon escape layer on the light emitting structure. Further, the photon escape layer has a refractive index that is between a refractive index of the light emitting structure and a refractive index of an encapsulating material with respect to the light emitting structure such that an escape probability for photons emitted by the light emitting structure is increased.
US08193532B2 Thin film integrated circuit device, IC label, container comprising the thin film integrated circuit, manufacturing method of the thin film integrated circuit device, manufacturing method of the container, and management method of product having the container
The present invention provides an ultrathin thin film integrated circuit and a thin film integrated circuit device including the thin film integrated circuit device. Accordingly, the design of a product is not spoilt while an integrated circuit formed from a silicon wafer, which is thick and produces irregularities on the surface of the product container. The thin film integrated circuit according to the present invention includes a semiconductor film as an active region (for example a channel region in a thin film transistor), unlike an integrated circuit formed from a conventional silicon wafer. The thin film integrated circuit according to the present invention is thin enough that the design is not spoilt even when a product such as a card or a container is equipped with the thin film integrated circuit.
US08193530B2 Semiconductor device having pairs of pads
An integrated-circuit semiconductor device includes external electrical connection pads on one face and electrical connection vias under said pads. The electrical connection vias are arranged with a defined pitch in a defined direction. Each via is respectively associated with one of a plurality of adjacent zones of the face. These zones extend perpendicularly to the pitch direction. The electrical connection pads are grouped in adjacent pairs. An insulation space is located between the pads of each pair of electrical connection pads. In a direction perpendicular to the pitch direction, the pads in the pair are spaced apart. The pads of each pair of electrical connection pads extend over a pair of adjacent zones and are associated with two adjacent vias.
US08193526B2 Transistor having an organic semiconductor with a hollow space
A semiconductor device having a semiconductor elements formed with higher density is provided. Furthermore an image display device using the semiconductor device is also provided.A semiconductor device comprising a resin film that has a through hole that penetrates from one surface to the other surface thereof, a source electrode disposed along the inner wall of the through hole, a drain electrode disposed along the inner wall of the through hole, a gate electrode disposed on the other surface of the resin film opposing the through hole, an insulating layer disposed on the gate electrode at the bottom of the through hole and an organic semiconductor disposed in the through hole so as to contact the source electrode and the drain electrode, wherein the organic semiconductor makes contact with at least a part of the insulating layer at the bottom of the through hole so that a channel is formed in the organic semiconductor in the vicinity of the insulating layer that is in contact therewith.
US08193525B2 Method for producing planar transporting resonance heterostructures
An electron transport device, including at least one transport layer in which at least one periodic dislocation and/or defect array is produced, and a mechanism for guiding electrons in the transport layer.
US08193519B2 Illuminating waveguide fabrication method
A nanolithography system comprising a novel optical printing head suitable for high throughput nanolithography. This optical head enables a super-resolution lithographic exposure tool that is otherwise compatible with the optical lithographic process infrastructure. The exposing light is transmitted through specially designed super-resolution apertures, of which the “C-aperture” is one example, that create small but bright images in the near-field transmission pattern. A printing head comprising an array of these apertures is held in close proximity to the wafer to be exposed. In one embodiment, an illumination source is divided into parallel channels that illuminate each of the apertures. Each of these channels can be individually modulated to provide the appropriate exposure for the particular location on the wafer corresponding to the current position of the aperture. A data processing system is provided to re-interpret the layout data into a modulation pattern used to drive the individual channels. In one embodiment of the invention, the exposure head remains stationary while the material to be exposed rotates beneath the head. Such an embodiment comprises a circular data fracturing system to process the layout data to determine the correct modulation pattern.
US08193518B2 Device and method for spatial reconstructing of fluorescence mapping
The invention concerns a method for locating at least one fluorophore or at least one absorber in a diffusing medium, using at least one excitation radiation and at least one fluorescence detector (Φfluo), comprising:a) for at least one pair (radiation source-detector), at least one excitation by the radiation source, and at least one detection of the fluorescence signal emitted by the fluorophore after this excitation,b) identification of meshing of the volume into mesh elements,c) estimation of the location of the fluorophore or absorber in its diffusing medium, by computing a function (Pm) of at least one of three parameters.
US08193514B2 Apparatus and method for curing surface coated materials
The invention is directed to an apparatus and methods for curing a surface that is coated with a curable resin, such as an ultraviolet light-curable surface coating. The method involves directing radiation to the curable coating material using an apparatus of the invention to form a cured surface without substantially increasing the temperature of the work surface. The surface coating material can contain ultraviolet reactive photo-initiator compounds. An apparatus for curing a surface coating material is also provided. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a source of ultraviolet radiation that emits radiation having wavelengths in the range of about 315 to about 400 nm, an air cooling system that maintains an optimum temperature that maximizes the ultraviolet energy output and vents exhaust air away from the targeted work surface, and a positioning panel that holds the ultraviolet light source and allows the ultraviolet radiation source to be rotated both in the horizontal and vertical directions such that the apparatus can be accurately directed towards the target surface coating material.
US08193506B2 Device for detecting signals
A device for detecting signals is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the device includes at least four detector elements for receiving the signals and converting them into useful signals, each being connected via at least two lines to at least one signal processing unit. Each detector element includes a polarity reversal unit by which polarity reversal of the useful signal of the respective detector element can be performed. The signal polarity reversal logic is unambiguously spatially direction-dependent within the detector array. An advantage of the device of at least one embodiment is that for signals to be received simultaneously by way of two detector elements, the detector elements involved become unambiguously identifiable by the polarity reversal of the useful signal.
US08193500B2 Discrimination filtering device, discrimination method of object, and designing method of filters for discrimination filtering device
A discrimination filtering device includes a filter and a filter having different pass bands, a detection unit, a processing unit, and a result output unit. The detection unit detects an electromagnetic wave from an object that is the target of identification through the filters. The pass band of the filters is designed to be suitable for object discrimination. The processing unit substitutes the output from the detection unit into a discrimination function determined based on the pass band of the filters and the teaching spectrum obtained in advance to infer the group which the object belongs to based on the substituted result.
US08193497B2 Near-infrared photodetectors, image sensors employing the same, and methods of manufacturing the same
Silicon photodetectors using near-infrared dipole antennas. The photodetectors include a silicon region formed on a semiconductor substrate, dipole antenna forming two arms that are spaced apart with the silicon region therebetween and inducing an electromagnetic wave signal of incident light, and electrodes disposed in a vertical direction of the dipole antenna and spaced apart with the silicon region therebetween, where a critical bias voltage is applied to the electrodes to induce an avalanche gain operation in the silicon region.
US08193492B2 Method for exciting a mobile element of a microstructure
The invention pertains to a method for exciting a resonant element of a microstructure, this element being mobile according to one degree of freedom. The method comprises a step for applying a charged particle beam to said microstructure, the beam being configured so as to drive the element in an alternating motion depending on its degree of freedom.
US08193486B2 Security inspection system for persons
The invention provides a security inspection system for inspecting persons, characterized in that it comprises: a passageway which provides an inspection space isolated or partially isolated from an ambient environment, in which at least one sub-passageway allowing persons to be inspected to pass is provided in the inspection space, and each of the sub-passageways is provided with at least one millimeter wave imaging device for millimeter wave imaging of persons being inspected; and an ion mobility spectrometer for ionizing particles of substance or gases that are released or volatilized from the inspected persons into the air in the passageway and then measuring a mobility rate thereof under the action of the electric field to effect identification of substances. At least one radioactive substance inspection device may also be provided in the passageway to detect whether the person being inspected carries radioactive substances.
US08193483B2 Optical encoder systems, devices and methods
Disclosed are various embodiments of high-speed, high-performance, low-noise optical encoders having various means for preventing undesired stray light from reaching light detectors incorporated therein. Structures employed to block stray light in the optical encoders include light barriers, air gap trenches, and coatings disposed between first and second sides of a substrate of the encoder. Also disclosed are compact single track optical encoders having a single dome lens disposed thereover, and dual track triple dome lens optical encoders. Methods of making such optical encoders are also disclosed.
US08193474B2 Smart sensing oven
Smart oven allows contactless detection of surface temperature of an item being heated. The temperature of the heated object can be maintained at the specified temperature for a specified time. The program for cooking can be read automatically from a package from the food, e.g, from a bar code on the package. When the preheating or cooking is finished, a text message can be sent to a user.
US08193469B2 Ceramic igniters
Ceramic igniters are provided that comprise at least three zones of differing electrical resistance, preferably in sequence a first conductive zone of relatively low resistance, a power booster or enhancement zone of intermediate resistance, and a further hot or ignition zone of high resistance. Igniters of the invention can provide extremely high speeds (low time-to-temperature).
US08193467B2 Insulator with disc-shaped carrier element
The disclosure relates to an insulator for positioning an electrical conductor in a gas chamber in a housing of a gas-insulated switchgear assembly, which comprises an electrically insulating disc-shaped carrier element with at least one cutout for passing through an electrical conductor. At least one notch for accommodating a clamp element is arranged on the outer circumference of the carrier element at least one point.
US08193457B2 Stack structure of circuit board
A stack structure of a circuit board includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a fixing element. The first substrate has a first component area, a plurality of supporting solder elements, and a plurality of signal solder elements, wherein the plurality of signal elements is disposed in the first component area. The first substrate stacks on the second substrate. The plurality of supporting solder elements is disposed between the first and the second substrates for providing a supporting force. The fixing element secures the first substrate and the second substrate, and the supporting solder elements are disposed around the fixing element.
US08193454B2 Circuit substrate having power/ground plane with grid holes
The present invention relates to a circuit substrate having a first conductive layer. The first conductive layer includes at least one power/ground plane. The power/ground plane includes at least one plane edge and plurality of grid lines. Each grid line has a width. The grid lines intersect each other to define a plurality of first grid holes, wherein the distance between the first grid hole that is closest to the plane edge and the plane edge is 1.5 times the width. Thus, the influence on the resistance of power signal and ground signal caused by the first grid holes is reduced, power integrity is improved, and heat generation is reduced.
US08193448B2 Systems and methods of managing cables
A cable trough includes a tray having a tray portion extending along a generally horizontal plane with two opposite side edges, a first side wall portion extending along one side edge of the tray portion on a plane generally perpendicular to the plane of the tray portion, and a second side wall portion extending along the other side edge of the tray portion on a plane generally perpendicular to the plane of the tray portion. The cable trough further includes a first side wall having at least one first attachment configuration constructed and arranged to secure the first side wall to the first side wall portion of the tray, and a second side wall having at least one second attachment configuration constructed and arranged to secure the second side wall to the second side wall portion of the tray. Various cable trough systems and methods are further disclosed.
US08193447B2 Electrical outlet plate control arrangement
A securement housing arrangement for attachment to a baseplate frame arrangement having electrical outlets arranged therewithin, to protect and control the use of electrical plugs in those outlets and power cables with respect to that securement housing, comprising: a wall of the housing having at least one opening for the passage of a power cable therethrough; a biasable locking lever arranged on a wall of the housing so as to secure the housing to a base plate frame arrangement, and to permit that locking lever to be controllably secured to that enclosure housing.
US08193431B1 Guitar hammer and method
A hand-held hammer for playing a guitar includes a handle, an arm and a head. The head has a head longitudinal axis and a striking surface that is generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the arm. The striking surface is curved and equal to or longer than the distance between the first and fourth string of a six-string guitar. The player holds the guitar, selects the string length by fretting one or more strings, grips the hammer by the handle and strikes the strings with the striking surface.
US08193428B1 Maize variety hybrid X7R402
A novel maize variety designated X7R402 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing maize variety X7R402 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X7R402 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X7R402, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X7R402. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X7R402.
US08193424B2 Soybean variety A1016522
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1016522. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1016522. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1016522 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1016522 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08193421B2 Soybean cultivar S080117
A soybean cultivar designated S080117 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S080117, to the plants of soybean S080117, to plant parts of soybean cultivar S080117, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar S080117 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety S080117, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S080117, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar S080117 with another soybean cultivar.
US08193413B2 Temporal seed promoters for expressing genes in plants
The present invention relates to the field of plant genetic engineering. More specifically, the present invention relates to seed specific gene expression during a defined period of embryogenesis. The present invention provides promoters capable of transcribing heterologous nucleic acid sequences in seeds, and methods of modifying, producing, and using the same.
US08193410B2 Transgenic plants with controlled distribution of a trait to progeny
A process of producing a transgenic multi-cellular plants or parts thereof expressing a trait of interest, said trait having a controlled distribution of said trait to progeny, wherein said process comprises (i) producing a first plant or a cell thereof having in a first locus of a nuclear chromosome a first heterologous nucleotide sequence comprising a first fragment of a nucleotide sequence encoding said trait of interest, (ii) producing a second plant or a cell thereof having in a second locus of a nuclear chromosome homologous to said nuclear chromosome of step (i), a second heterologous nucleotide sequence comprising a second fragment of the nucleotide sequence encoding said trait of interest, and (iii) hybridising said first and said second plant or cells thereof to generate progeny exhibiting said functional trait of interest due to binding between a protein or polypeptide encoded by said first heterologous nucleotide sequence and a protein or polypeptide encoded by said second heterologous nucleotide sequence. Further, the invention provides a process of producing hybrid seeds for agriculture.
US08193406B2 Super-hydrophobic bandages and method of making the same
A bandage that includes a material, which can be breathable, having a first surface, and a plurality of superhydrophobic particles attached to the first surface. The plurality of superhydrophobic particles ranging in size from about 100 nanometers to about 10 micrometers. The superhydrophobic particles including a protrusive material defining a plurality of nanopores and a plurality of spaced apart nanostructures that define an external boundary of the hydrophobic particles. The nanopores providing a flow through porosity. The first surface can be rendered superhydrophobic by the attached superhydrophobic particles. The material can have a second surface opposite the first surface that is hydrophilic. The superhydrophobic particles can be adhered to the first surface by a binder. Also included is a method of making the bandages described herein.
US08193403B2 Systems and methods for recycling plastic
Systems and methods for recycling waste plastic can convert the waste plastic into a form of purified crude oil that includes one or more organic molecular species and that is free, or substantially free, of impurities such as acids and metals. In some systems and methods, the plastic is heated under vacuum conditions to effect depolymerization of the plastic, which yields a vapor, and the vapor is then directly contacted with a pH adjusted solution in a vapor treatment system. In some systems and methods, a continuous batch process is employed.
US08193401B2 Composition of hydrocarbon fuel
Slurry hydrocracking a heavy hydrocarbon feed produces a HVGO stream and a pitch stream. At least a portion of the pitch stream is subjected to SDA to prepare a DAO stream low in metals. The DAO is blended with at least a portion of the HVGO stream to provide turbine or marine fuel with acceptable properties for combustion in gas turbines or for marine fuel grades.
US08193400B2 Production of diesel fuel from renewable feedstocks
A process has been developed for producing diesel fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant oils and greases. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating i.e. decarboxylating and/or hydrodeoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel fuel. If desired, the hydrocarbon fraction can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties. A portion of the hydrogenated and deoxygenated feedstock is selectively separated and then recycled to the treatment zone to increase the hydrogen solubility of the reaction mixture. A diesel range stream or a naphtha range stream, or a mixture of the two streams is used as a rectification agent in the selective hot high pressure hydrogen stripper to decrease the amount of product carried in the overhead.
US08193395B2 Biomass treatment process and system
The present invention provides processes and systems for treating biomass and, e.g., making biofuels, such as bioethanol, from the biomass. More particularly, one process according to the present invention includes (a) inducing at least a first portion of a composition containing biomass and a working fluid to flow into a passage of a fluid processing apparatus, (b) injecting a high velocity transport fluid into the composition through a nozzle communicating with the passage of the fluid processing apparatus, whereby the transport fluid applies a shear force to the composition such that the working fluid is atomized and a vapor and droplet flow regime is formed downstream of the nozzle, (c) condensing the vapor and droplet flow regime, (d) transferring the composition to a first holding vessel, and (e) holding the composition in the first holding vessel at a first predetermined temperature for a first predetermined period of time, wherein a liquefaction enzyme is added to the composition prior to or during the process. Thereafter, the composition may be further processed to form a biofuel, such as, e.g., bioethanol.
US08193393B2 Fluoroether diketones for high temperature heat transfer
Fluoroether diketones are provided that can be useful in apparatuses that includes a device and a mechanism for transferring heat. The provided fluoroether diketones are stable at temperatures above 175° C., are environmentally friendly, and are economical to produce. The provided apparatuses can be useful for vapor phase soldering of electronic devices.
US08193390B2 Method for the production of N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC)
A process for preparing N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC) by continuously reacting methyl acetate (MeOAc) with dimethylamine (DMA) in the presence of a basic catalyst, wherein MeOAc is used in the form of a methanolic solution and the continuous distillative workup is effected in such a way that methanol and any other low boilers are initially removed overhead in a column A and the bottom effluent of column A is fed to a column B in which DMAC is removed via a side draw a purity of ≧99.7% by weight.
US08193388B2 Compounds for depositing tellurium-containing films
Disclosed herein are tellurium metal-organic precursors and methods for depositing tellurium-containing films on a substrate.
US08193386B2 Crystalline form of (S)-1-phenylethylammonium (R)-diphenylmethanesulphinyl-acetate
Novel crystalline hydrate form of (S)-1-phenylethylammonium (R)-diphenyl-methanesulphinyl-acetate and its use in a process for the preparation of (R)-benzhydrylsulphinylacetamide.
US08193385B2 Method for producing isocyanates
The invention relates to a multistage process for the continuous preparation of organic, distillable isocyanates, preferably diisocyanates, particularly preferably aliphatic or cycloaliphatic diisocyanates, by reaction of the corresponding organic amines with urea and alcohols to liberate ammonia and form low molecular weight monomeric urethanes and thermal dissociation of the latter, in which by-products formed are at least partly utilized.
US08193383B2 Process for continuously preparing fatty acid methyl esters or fatty esters
In a process for producing fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) from fats or oils by transesterification with methanol in the presence of an alkaline catalyst in at least two reaction stages traversed in succession, each consisting of a stirred-tank reactor and a downstream separator, a phase containing FAME and a phase containing glycerol are generated, which are separated in the separator, wherein the phase containing FAME is recirculated into the stirred-tank reactor of the next succeeding reaction stage and the phase containing glycerol is recirculated into the stirred-tank reactor of the first reaction stage, and the crude FAME withdrawn from the separator of the last reaction stage is transferred into a separator and the FAME withdrawn is dried. To increase the yield of FAME, the aqueous phase containing glycerol, methanol, undissociated soaps and FAME, which is obtained upon withdrawal of the FAME, is thoroughly mixed with the phases withdrawn from the separators of the first to penultimate reaction stages, which contain glycerol and FAME, and the mixture is separated in a separator into a phase containing FAME and a phase containing glycerol.
US08193374B2 Process for the preparation of alkylene carbonate and/or alkylene glycol
The invention provides a reaction system for the production of an alkylene carbonate and/or an alkylene glycol comprising: an epoxidation zone containing an epoxidation catalyst located within an epoxidation reactor; a carboxylation zone containing an iodide-containing carboxylation catalyst located within an alkylene oxide absorber; and one or more purification zones containing a purification absorbent capable of reducing the quantity of iodide-containing impurities in a feed comprising a recycle gas, which purification zones are located upstream from the epoxidation zone; and a process for the production of an alkylene carbonate and/or an alkylene glycol.
US08193367B2 Polymorph of a pharmaceutical
A new crystalline polymorph of ritonavir and methods for its use and preparation are disclosed.
US08193363B2 Compounds suitable as precursors to compounds that are useful for imaging amyloid deposits
The present invention relates to novel derivatives that are suitable as precursors to compounds that are useful for imaging amyloid deposits in living patients, their compositions, methods of use and processes to make such compounds. The compounds deriving from these precursors are useful in methods of imaging amyloid deposits in brain in vivo to allow antemortem diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease by positron emission tomography (PET) as well as measuring clinical efficacy of Alzheimer's disease therapeutic agents. Furthermore, the present invention also discloses the precursor compounds in crystalline form.
US08193362B2 Insecticidal compounds
A compound of formula (I): wherein R1 is pyrid-4-yl optionally substituted by one to four substituents independently selected from halogen, C1-3 alkyl or C1-3 haloalkyl; R2 is hydrogen, halogen, C1-4 haloalkyl or C1-4 haloalkoxy; R3 is trifluoromethyl, difluoromethyl or difluoromethoxy and R4 is hydrogen, fluoro or chloro, or R3 is fluoro, chloro or bromo and R4 is fluoro, chloro or trifluoromethyl; and R5 is hydrogen or halogen; or salts or N-oxides thereof. Furthermore, the present invention relates to intermediates used to prepare compounds of formula (I), to methods of using them to combat and control insect, acarine, mollusc and nematode pests and to insecticidal, acaricidal, molluscicidal and nematicidal compositions comprising them.
US08193349B2 4-benzylamino-1-carboxylacyl-piperidine derivatives as CETP inhibitors
The present invention provides a compound of formula (I): wherein the variants R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 are as defined herein, and wherein said compound is an inhibitor of CETP, and thus can be employed for the treatment of a disorder or disease mediated by CETP or responsive to the inhibition of CETP.
US08193345B2 Purification method of lactone compounds containing unsaturated alkyl group by extraction with silver ion solution
The present invention relates to a method for separating and purifying a lactone compound with an unsaturated alkyl group from a lactone compound with a saturated alkyl group which is an analog thereof. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method for effectively separating a lactone compound with an unsaturated alkyl group such as FK506 at high purity by extraction with a silver ion (Ag+) solution without use of column chromatography.
US08193343B2 Manufacture and products thereof of photosensitizing nanomaterials and their use in photodynamic treatment
A method for the manufacture of a photosensitizing nanomaterial (40) and the products thereof are disclosed. The method for the treatment of a biological target (50) is disclosed. The photosensitizing nanomaterial (40) comprises a metal complex tetrapyrrole derivative (10). The metal complex tetrapyrrole derivative (10) is attached by an axial covalent bond (60) to the surface (25) of a solid nanomaterial (20). The solid nanomaterial (20) has at least one dimension in the nanometer and/or the micrometer range.
US08193330B2 Polynucleotides comprising Neurogenin3 promoter and bHLH encoding domains
The present invention features polypeptides having activity of human neurogenin3 (hNgn3), and nucleic acid encoding such polypeptide. The invention also features use of islet transcription factors such as hNgn3 to facilitate production of pancreatic islet cells from progenitor cells, and to facilitate insulin delivery by production of islet cells so produced.
US08193328B2 Identification of modulators of serine protease inhibitor Kazal and their use as anti-cancer and anti-viral agents
This invention describes a relevant etiology of cancer and a novel anti-cancer therapeutic strategy, based on the discovery that a protein named serine protease inhibitor (SPIK/SPINK/PSTI) was up-regulated by hepatitis B and C virus infections consequently suppressing the cell apoptosis. Accordingly, this invention provides an inhibitor of SPIK and/or a technology of suppression of over-expression of SPIK in cells. The inhibitors include: 1) chemical compounds, which can inhibit SPIK transcripts, protein activity, and gene expression, 2) SPIK siRNA (RNAi gene silence or dsRNA of SPIK, 3) DNA anti-sense and anti-SPIK antibody. Further, this invention provides a method of using the inhibitor as an anti-cancer agent to re-instate cancer cell apoptosis (e.g., serine protease dependent cell apoptosis).
US08193324B2 Continuous counter-current organosolv processing of lignocellulosic feedstocks
A modular process for organosolv fractionation of lignocellulosic feedstocks into component parts and further processing of said component parts into one or more of a de-lignified cellulose stream, a sugar stream, small-chain alcohol streams and four structurally distinct classes of lignin derivatives. The modular process comprises a first processing module configured for digesting lignocellulosic feedstocks with an organic solvent thereby producing a cellulosic solids fraction and a liquid fraction, a second processing module configured for recovering small-chain alcohols and optionally a first class of lignin derivatives from the cellulosic solids fraction, a third processing module configured for recovering from the liquid fraction at least one of a second class and a third class of lignin derivatives or mixtures thereof, and waste stream comprising a fourth class of lignin derivatives. The fourth processing module may optionally recover the fourth class of lignin derivatives.
US08193323B1 mpl ligand (thrombopoietin), active fragments thereof, and fusion proteins and compositions comprising mpl ligand and other cytokines
Isolated mpl ligand, isolated DNA encoding mpl ligand, and recombinant or synthetic methods of preparing mpl ligand are disclosed. These mpl ligands are shown to influence the replication, differentiation or maturation of blood cells, especially megakaryocytes and megakaryocyte progenitor cells. Accordingly, these compounds may be used for treatment of thrombocytopenia.
US08193317B2 Freeze-dried fibrin matrices and methods for preparation thereof
Methods for producing porous freeze-dried fibrin matrices substantially devoid of external anti-fibrinolytic agents. Resilient matrices, also known as sponges, that are particularly beneficial for supporting three dimensional cell growth are obtained from plasma proteins substantially devoid of plasminogen or from partially purified plasma proteins, thus obviating the need for exogenous anti-fibrinolytic agents. Furthermore, incorporation of glycosaminoglycans and bioactive agents during the formation of the matrix results in a sponge having advantageous biological, mechanical and physical properties. The compositions made by the method of the present invention are useful clinically or as cell-bearing implants.
US08193314B2 Transcriptional engineering of Lactobacillus
The invention relates to global transcription machinery engineering to produce altered cells having improved phenotypes and methods for evaluating phenotypic diversity.
US08193302B2 Polyester compositions which comprise cyclobutanediol and certain phosphate thermal stabilizers, and/or reaction products thereof
Described as one aspect of the invention are polyester compositions containing: (I) at least one polyester which comprises: (a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising: (i) 70 to 100 mole % of terephthalic acid residues; (ii) 0 to 30 mole % of aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 20 carbon atoms; and (iii) 0 to 10 mole % of aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues having up to 16 carbon atoms; and (b) a glycol component comprising: (i) 1 to 99 mole % of 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3 -cyclobutanediol residues; and (ii) 1 to 99 mole % of cyclohexanedimethanol residues; and (II) at least one thermal stabilizer chosen from at least one of alkyl phosphate esters, aryl phosphate esters, mixed alkyl aryl phosphate esters, reaction products thereof, and mixtures thereof; wherein the total mole % of the dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, and wherein the total mole % of the glycol component is 100 mole %.
US08193280B2 Ionic liquid epoxy resins
Ionic liquid epoxide monomers that react with cross-linking agents to form polymers exhibiting high tensile and adhesive strengths are described. The polymers exhibit high tensile and adhesive strengths at extremely low temperatures and are stable at elevated temperatures. The polymer resins are particularly well-suited for use as adhesives, and in coatings, composites, and articles of manufacture.
US08193271B2 Process for preparing an aqueous polymer composition using water-soluble free radical chain regulators
Process for preparing an aqueous polymer composition using water-soluble free radical chain regulators.
US08193268B2 Hot-vulcanizable polyorganosiloxane compositions useful particularly for manufacturing electrical cables or wires
A polyorganosiloxane composition that can be vulcanized at high temperature to a silicone elastomer, useful in the field of the manufacture of electrical wires or cables having an improved fire performance is provided. The composition includes a semi-reinforcing filler chosen from the group composed of:—calcined kaolin powders, preferably that have undergone a chemical surface treatment;—talc;—calcium carbonate that may or may not have been surface-treated, for example with vinylsilanes, aminosilanes or (reactive or unreactive) silicone oils; and mixtures thereof.
US08193264B2 Thermoplastic resin composition and molded article thereof
A thermoplastic resin composition and a molded article thereof, respectively excellent in flowability and mechanical properties, and, in a preferred mode, also excellent in low warping property, laser transmittance and laser weldability, is obtained by mixing (B) 0.1 to 4 parts by weight of a polyfunctional compound having three or more functional groups, in which at least one of the terminal structures having the functional groups is a structure containing alkylene oxide units, with (A) 100 parts by weight of a thermoplastic resin, and further provides a molded particle thereof. It is preferred that the (A) thermoplastic resin is one or more selected from a polyester resin and polycarbonate resin.
US08193262B2 Finishing compound suitable for acoustic supports
A finishing compound having acoustic properties and including in percentage by weight relative to the total weight of the product, at least 10 to 70% of water; 0.1 to 5% of a foaming agent; 0.1 to 5% of a thickening agent; 35 to 70% of a monogranular filler having a size greater than or equal to 100 μm and excluding fine fillers; 0.1 to 8% of synthetic or animal fibers; 0.5 to 35% of binder.
US08193256B1 Method for epoxy foam production using a liquid anhydride
An epoxy resin mixture with at least one epoxy resin of between approximately 50 wt % and 100 wt %, an anhydride cure agent of between approximately 0 wt % and approximately 50 wt %, a tert-butoxycarbonyl anhydride foaming agent of between proximately 0.1-20 wt %, a surfactant and an imidazole or similar catalyst of less than approximately 2 wt %, where the resin mixture is formed from at least one epoxy resin with a 1-10 wt % tert-butoxycarbonyl anhydride compound and an imidazole catalyst at a temperature sufficient to keep the resin in a suitable viscosity range, the resin mixture reacting to form a foaming resin which in the presence of an epoxy curative can then be cured at a temperature greater than 50° C. to form an epoxy foam.
US08193248B2 Contraceptive composition
The present invention relates to a contraceptive composition including an effective amount of a dendrimer compound including one or more naphthyl disulphonic acid surface groups, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate of the dendrimer compound; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient and/or diluent therefor. The contraceptive composition may also exhibit antimicrobial activity. The invention also relates to a method of selectively reducing or preventing conception in a female animal, including a human, which method includes administering to the animal an effective amount of a contraceptive composition which composition includes an effective amount of a dendrimer compound including one or more naphthyl disulphonic acid surface groups, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate of the dendrimer compound; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient and/or diluent therefor.
US08193244B1 Antimicrobial agents
The combination of Nα-long chain alkanoyl di basic amino acid alkyl ester salts with glycerol monofatty acid esters results in biocidal synergy and the extension of cidal activity of the di basic amino acid derivative for a variety of antimicrobial applications like oral care, wound care, dermatological care, animal care, and cosmetic applications.Nα-C8-C14-long chain alkanoyl-L-arginine alkyl (C1-C4 short chain) ester salts with glycerol monofatty acid esters (C8-C14) are very effective as antimicrobial agents for hospital use particularly as a coating for surgical drapes, covers, walls, trays, table tops, gurneys, or the like. Other uses include the treatment of HSV-1 (fever sore) and as a microbicide when using the combination of the di basic amino acid ester derivative with glycerol monofatty acid esters for preventing HIV and STD's.
US08193243B2 Continuous administration of dopa decarboxylase inhibitors and compositions for same
Disclosed herein are compositions that include for example the arginine salt of carbidopa, and methods for treating neurological or movement diseases or disorders such as restless leg syndrome, Parkinson's disease, secondary parkinsonism, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's like syndrome, PSP, MSA, ALS, Shy-Drager syndrome and conditions resulting from brain injury including carbon monoxide or manganese intoxication, using substantially continuous administration of carbidopa or salt thereof together with administration of levodopa.
US08193227B2 HIV protease inhibiting compounds
A compound of the formula is disclosed as an HIV protease inhibitor. Methods and compositions for inhibiting an HIV infection are also disclosed.
US08193221B2 Insecticidal compounds
A compound of formula (I) wherein A1, A2, A3, A4, R1, R2, R3 and R4 are as defined in claim 1; or a salt or N-oxide thereof. Furthermore, the present invention relates to processes and intermediates for preparing compounds of formula (I), to insecticidal, acaricidal, nematicidal or molluscicidal compositions comprising them and to methods of using them to combat and control insect, acarine, nematode or mollusc pests.
US08193220B1 Method of changing muscle lengths with anesthetic drugs
According to one aspect, the fibers of a muscle to be shortened or lengthened are exposed to a local anesthetic drug such as bupivacaine. The concentration and volume of the local anesthetic drug are sufficient to causes the muscle fibers to be damaged by the myotoxicity of the drug. The muscle is then kept at a different length, shorter or longer, during the ensuing period of muscle fiber regeneration, resulting in a shortened or lengthened muscle. In one embodiment, the shortened length of the treated muscle improved the position and the movement of the eye to which it was attached.
US08193212B2 Use of huperzine for neuropathic pain
Methods and compositions containing huperzine are used to prevent and alleviate neuropathic pain. The invention is also directed to methods and compositions for using huperzine for the prevention and/or treatment of neuropathic pain and orthostatic hypotension.
US08193210B2 Camptothecin derivatives with antitumor activity
Novel camptothecin derivatives having antitumor activity, the processes for the preparation thereof, the use thereof as antitumor drugs and pharmaceutical compositions containing them.
US08193200B2 Antagonists of A2B adenosine receptors for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
The present invention relates to method for treating inflammatory bowel disease that includes administration of an effective amount of an antagonist of A2B adenosine receptors (ARs).
US08193191B2 Urotensin II receptor antagonists
The invention is directed to Urotensin II antagonists. More specifically, the present invention relates to certain novel compounds, methods for preparing compounds, compositions, intermediates and derivatives thereof and methods for treating Urotensin-II mediated disorders. Pharmaceutical and veterinary compositions and methods of treating cardiovascular disorders and various other disease states or conditions using compounds of the invention are also described.
US08193190B2 Derivatives of (bridged piperazinyl)-1-alkanone and use thereof as p75 inhibitors
The present invention relates to derivatives of ((phenyl)-3,6-dihydropyridin-1-yl)(bridged piperazinyl)-1-alkanone derivatives and ((phenyl)-2,5-dihydropyrrol-1-yl) (bridged piperazinyl)-1-alkanone corresponding to Formula (I): in which the variables are as defined herein, to the preparation thereof and to the therapeutic use thereof.
US08193186B2 Pyridopyrazines and the use thereof as kinase inhibitors
The invention relates to novel pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazine derivatives of the general Formula I, their preparation and use as medicaments, in particular for the treatment of malignant and other disorders based on pathological cell proliferations.
US08193185B2 Use of tryptanthrin compounds for immune potentiation
The invention provides immunostimulatory compositions and methods of administration thereof. Also provided are methods of administering a tryptanthrin compound in an effective amount to enhance the immune response of a subject to an antigen. Also provided are methods of administering an effective amount of a tryptanthrin to stimulate the immune response in a subject for the treatment of cancer. Further provided are methods of administering a tryptanthrin compounds as an immunotherapeutic in the treatment of infectious diseases.
US08193179B2 3-amino-6-(1-amino-ethyl)-tetrahydropyran derivatives
Antibacterial compounds including 3-amino-6-(1-amino-ethyl)-tetrahydropyran derivatives are provided, and methods of treatment or prevention of bacterial infection with such compounds are provided.
US08193176B2 Phenylpyrazole derivatives
The present invention provides a prophylactic or therapeutic agent for dementia, Alzheimer's disease, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, sleep disorders, narcolepsy, sleep apnea syndrome, circadian rhythm disorder, depression, allergic rhinitis or other diseases.A phenylpyrazole derivative represented by formula (1) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: {wherein R1 and R2, which may be the same or different, each represent C1-C6 alkyl or C3-C8 cycloalkyl, or R1 and R2 are attached to each other together with their adjacent nitrogen atom to form a 4- to 7-membered saturated heterocyclic ring (wherein said saturated heterocyclic ring may be substituted with halogen or C1-C6 alkyl), n represents an integer of 0 to 2, T represents a hydrogen atom, halogen or C1-C6 alkyl, and R represents formula (I): or the like}.
US08193171B2 13,13-dimethyl-des-C,D analogs of 1α,25-dihydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D3 compounds and topical composition dosage forms and methods of treating skin conditions thereof
13,13-Dimethyl-des-C,D analogs of 1α,25-dihydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D3 compounds and topical composition dosage forms thereof, and methods of treating skin conditions thereof. Exemplary active pharmaceutical ingredients include (1R,3R)-5-[(E)-(S)-11′-hydroxy-5′,5′,7′,11′-tetramethyl-dodec-2′-enylidene]-2-methylene-cyclohexane-1,3-diol, (1R,3R)-5-[(Z)-(S)-11′-hydroxy-5′,5′,7′,11′-tetramethyl-dodec-2′-enylidene]-2-methylene-cyclohexane-1,3-diol, (1R,3R)-5-[(E)-(R)-11′-hydroxy-5′,5′,7′,11′-tetramethyl-dodec-2′-enylidene]-2-methylene-cyclohexane-1,3-diol, and (1R,3R)-5-[(Z)-(R)-11′-hydroxy-5′,5′,7′,11′-tetramethyl-dodec-2′-enylidene]-2-methylene-cyclohexane-1,3-diol.
US08193162B2 Human liver regeneration associated protein and the use thereof
This invention provides a novel human liver regeneration associated protein hLRTM4 and the polynucleotide which encodes the hLRTM4 protein. Furthermore, this invention provides a method of preparing and using hLRTM4 protein, and its polynucleotides. hLRTM4 protein can be used to treat liver injury, and its antagonists (e.g. antisense nucleic acids and antibodies) can be used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma. This invention also provides the corresponding pharmaceutical compositions.
US08193159B2 MCP-1 binding nucleic acids
The present invention is related to a nucleic acid, preferably binding to MCP-1, selected from the group comprising type 1A nucleic acids, type 1B nucleic acids, type 2 nucleic acids, type 3 nucleic acids, type 4 nucleic acids and nucleic acids having a nucleic acid sequence according to any of SEQ. ID. No. 87 to 115.
US08193152B2 Treatment or prevention of hemorrhagic viral infections with immunomodulator compounds
An immunomodulatory compound is administered to a patient having, or at risk of a hemorrhagic viral infection.
US08193151B2 Methods for treating atrial or ventricular arrhythmias
The present invention provides compositions and methods for treating heart conditions. In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods that block G protein coupled receptor mediated signaling for treating atrial fibrillation.
US08193138B2 Aqueous highly acidic hard surface cleaning compositions
Provided are highly aqueous liquid acidic hard surface cleaning compositions having a pH of about 3 or less which comprise: an acid constituent, preferably comprising a ternary acid system consisting formic acid, sulfamic acid and oxalic acid, optionally at least one or more further co-acids; at least one nonionic surfactant based on monobranched alkoxylated C10/C11-fatty alcohols; an organic solvent constituent which comprises at least one glycol ether solvent, preferably a glycol ether solvent which desirably mitigates or masks malodors of the acid constituent, especially when the acid constituent comprises formic acid; optionally a cosurfactant constituent, including one or more nonionic, cationic, amphoteric or zwitterionic surfactants but preferably one or more nonionic surfactants and excluding cationic, amphoteric or zwitterionic surfactants; optionally one or more further constituents selected coloring agents, fragrances and fragrance solubilizers, viscosity modifying agents including one or more thickeners, pH adjusting agents and pH buffers including organic and inorganic salts, optical brighteners, opacifying agents, hydrotropes, abrasives, and preservatives, as well as other optional constituents known to the art; and the balance, water, wherein water comprises at least 80% wt. of the composition.
US08193133B2 Process for preparing fine powder polyurea and greases therefrom
Polyurea compounds are prepared by reacting amines and polyisoyanates in the presence of a liquid diluent in a high-pressure impingement mixing device under conditions sufficient to produce polyurea compounds having the consistency of a powder and in which diluent is dispersed.
US08193123B2 Articles having localized molecules disposed thereon and methods of producing same
Methods of producing substrates having selected active chemical regions by employing elements of the substrates in assisting the localization of active chemical groups in desired regions of the substrate. The methods may include optical, chemical and/or mechanical processes for the deposition, removal, activation and/or deactivation of chemical groups in selected regions of the substrate to provide selective active regions of the substrate.
US08193122B2 Superconductor fabrication
A seed crystal for the fabrication of a superconductor is grown from a rare-earth oxide having the basic formula XwZtBaxCuyOz, X comprising at least one rare-earth element and Z being a dopant which raises the peritectic decomposition temperature (Tp) of the oxide. In a preferred embodiment, the dopant is Mg. Use of this rare-earth oxide material for seed crystals increases the temperature at which cold-seeding can be performed and thus enables the growth of a wider range of bulk superconductor materials by this process.
US08193120B2 C2-phenyl-substituted cyclic ketonols
The present invention relates to novel C2-phenyl-substituted cyclic ketoenols, to a plurality of processes for their preparation and to their use as pesticides as herbicides.
US08193117B2 Carrier paper
A carrier paper has a coating applied thereon, which serves to take up ink which is then applied using a thermal sublimation printing process to a textile or a coated hard substrate. The textile, the hard substrate coating, or both are made from a polyester-containing plastic. The coating on the carrier paper comprises a semisynthetic polymer and the coated carrier paper is placed in direct contact with the textile or with the coated hard substrate during sublimation transfer. In the case of such a carrier paper, it is intended according to some aspects of the present invention that the semisynthetic polymer has thermoplastic properties. In the case of such a carrier paper, ghosting can be permanently avoided without adversely affecting primary parameters, such as printability, drying and transfer property of the carrier paper.
US08193112B2 Catalysts for the polymerization of cyclic esters
The present disclosure relates to cationic divalent metal catalysts useful for the polymerization of cyclic esters, methods for their preparation and uses thereof.
US08193111B2 Process or system for desorbing an adsorbent bed
One exemplary embodiment can be a process for desorbing an adsorbent bed. The process can include passing a desorbent stream through the adsorbent bed to remove at least one of a nitrile compound and an oxygenate compound. Generally, the desorbent stream after desorbing is combined with a feed stream for an alkylation zone after a selective hydrogenation zone.
US08193110B2 Refractory carbon-bonded magnesia brick and process for producing it
The invention relates to a refractory, ceramically fired, carbon-bonded magnesia brick whose matrix is more than 70% by weight, in particular from 80 to 98% by weight, of MgO grains and also a carbon framework binder matrix resulting from carbonization, and pores, wherein the MgO grains are fixed by means of carbon bonding of the carbon framework and at least 30%, in particular from 50 to 100%, of the MgO grains have at least one sintering bridge resulting from the ceramic firing.
US08193106B2 Process for binding fibrous materials and resulting product
A process for securely binding the adjoining fibers of a fibrous material in the absence of the use of phenol-formaldehyde reaction product is provided. A curable binding composition comprising an intermediate reaction product capable of undergoing free-radical polymerization as well as an esterification crosslinking reaction is provided. The intermediate reaction product is formed by the reaction of (i) at least one anhydride having at least one unsaturated double bond capable of undergoing free-radical polymerization, and (ii) at least one polyol crosslinker. When applied to a fibrous material, the binding composition comprising the intermediate reaction product is cured in the presence of a free-radical initiator and a polyol crosslinker wherein the double bonds present in the intermediate reaction product undergo free-radical polymerization and hydroxyl and carboxylic acid end groups undergo crosslinking to form a cured binder. In a preferred embodiment the securely bound fibrous product is fiberglass building insulation that well withstands water even at elevated temperatures.
US08193097B2 Plasma processing apparatus and impedance adjustment method
A plasma processing apparatus, for performing a plasma processing on a substrate to be processed by generating a plasma of the processing gas in an evacuable processing chamber, includes an impedance adjusting mechanism. The impedance adjusting mechanism is provided with a resonance circuit formed to allow a radio frequency current to flow into the first electrode; a variable impedance unit installed on a power feed line to the first electrode; a detector for detecting an apparatus state to be used to search a resonance point of the resonance circuit; and a controller for searching a resonance point of the resonance circuit by detecting a signal of the apparatus state of the detector while varying a value of the variable impedance unit in a state where the plasma is formed and then adjusting the value of the variable impedance unit at the resonance point to a reference value.
US08193094B2 Post CMP planarization by cluster ION beam etch
The embodiments of mechanisms described enables improved planarity of substrates, which is crucial for patterning and device yield improvement. Chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) is used to remove film to planarize the substrate before the final thickness is reached or before all removal film is polished. The substrate is then measured for its topography and film thickness. The topography and thickness data are used by the gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) etch tool to determine how much film to remove on a particular location. GCIB etch enables removal of final layer to meet the requirements of substrate uniformity and thickness target. The mechanisms enable improved planarity to meet the requirement of advanced processing technologies.
US08193093B2 Thru silicon enabled die stacking scheme
A die to die bonding system and method includes an upper die having a front side, a back side, and a fully filled thru silicon via, a portion of the fully filled thru silicon via protruding from the back side of the upper die. A lower die includes a front side, a back side, and a partially filled thru silicon via formed to define a via opening exposed to the front side of the die, a portion of the partially filled thru silicon via protruding from the back side of the lower die. An interconnect bonds an outer surface of the protruding portion of the upper die thru silicon via with an inner surface of via opening in the lower die.
US08193086B2 Local silicidation of via bottoms in metallization systems of semiconductor devices
Electromigration behavior in complex metallization systems of semiconductor devices may be enhanced at critical areas between a metal line and a via by locally forming a copper/silicon compound. In some illustrative embodiments, the formation of the copper/silicon compound may be combined with other treatments for cleaning the exposed surface areas and/or modifying the molecular structure thereof.
US08193085B2 Method for fabricating flip-attached and underfilled semiconductor devices
A semiconductor device (1700), which comprises a workpiece (1201) with an outline (1711) and a plurality of contact pads (1205) and further an external part (1701) with a plurality of terminal pads (1702). This part is spaced from the workpiece, and the terminal pads are aligned with the workpiece contact pads, respectively. A reflow element (1203) interconnects each of the contact pads with its respective terminal pad. Thermoplastic material (1204) fills the space between the workpiece and the part; this material adheres to the workpiece, the part and the reflow elements. Further, the material has an outline (1711) substantially in line with the outline of the workpiece, and fills the space (1707) substantially without voids. Due to the thermoplastic character of the filling material, the finished device can be reworked, when the temperature range for reflowing the reflow elements is reached.
US08193082B2 Circuit signal connection interface
A circuit signal connection interface, a manufacturing method thereof, and an electronic device using the same are provided. The circuit signal connection interface includes a first signal line and a second signal line juxtaposed to each other, an insulation layer, and a first conductive pad. The first conductive pad electrically connects to the first signal line, and crosses the second signal line. Te insulation layer is disposed between the second signal line and the first conductive pad. The electronic device further includes a circuit device including a first conducting bump and a second conducting bump connected to each other in a parallel manner. The first conducting bump electrically connects to a first portion of the first conductive pad while the second conducting bump electrically connects to a second portion of the first conductive pad.
US08193081B2 Method and system for metal gate formation with wider metal gate fill margin
A method includes providing a semiconductor substrate having a gate trench and depositing a metal layer, using a physical vapor deposition (PVD) process, over the substrate to partially fill the trench. The metal layer includes a bottom portion and a sidewall portion that is thinner than the bottom portion. The method also includes forming a coating layer on the metal layer, etching back the coating layer such that a portion of the coating layer protects a portion of the metal layer within the trench, and removing the unprotected portion of the metal layer. A different aspect involves a semiconductor device that includes a gate that includes a trench having a top surface, and a metal layer formed over the trench, wherein the metal layer includes a sidewall portion and a bottom portion, and wherein the sidewall portion is thinner than the bottom portion.
US08193072B2 Semiconductor wafer coat layers and methods therefor
Formulations and processes for forming wafer coat layers are disclosed. In one embodiment, an organic surface protectant is incorporated into a wafer coat formulation deposited onto a semiconductor wafer prior to the laser scribe operation. Upon removal of the wafer coat layer, the organic surface protectant remains on the bumps and thereby prevents oxidation of the bumps between die prep and chip and attach. In an alternative embodiment, an ultraviolet light absorber is added to the wafer coat formulation to enhance the wafer coat layer's energy absorption and thereby improve the laser's ability to ablate the wafer coat layer. In an alternative embodiment, a conformal wafer coat layer is deposited on the wafer and die bumps, thereby reducing wafer coat layer thickness variations that can impact the laser scribing ability.
US08193063B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device may include, but is not limited to the following processes. First and second gate electrodes are formed over a semiconductor substrate. An epitaxial layer is selectively formed over the semiconductor substrate. The epitaxial layer is adjacent to the first gate electrode. A first impurity is introduced into the semiconductor substrate through the epitaxial layer to form a first impurity region and directly into the semiconductor substrate to form a second impurity region. The first and second impurity regions are adjacent to the first and second gate electrodes, respectively. The first impurity region includes the epitaxial layer. A first bottom surface of the first impurity region is shallower in level than a second bottom surface of the second impurity region.
US08193060B2 Method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
Provided is a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device. A well region formed on a semiconductor substrate includes a plurality of trench regions, and a source electrode is connected to a source region formed on a substrate surface between the trench regions. Adjacently to the source region, a high concentration region is formed, which is brought into butting contact with the source electrode together with the source region, whereby a substrate potential is fixed. A drain region is formed at a bottom portion of the trench region, whose potential is taken to the substrate surface by a drain electrode buried inside the trench region. An arbitrary voltage is applied to a gate electrode, and the drain electrode, whereby carriers flow from the source region to the drain region and the semiconductor device is in an on-state.
US08193054B2 Ultrahigh density vertical NAND memory device and method of making thereof
A method of making a monolithic three dimensional NAND string, includes forming a stack of alternating layers of a first material and a second material different from the first material over a substrate, etching the stack to form at least one opening in the stack, forming a discrete charge storage material layer on a sidewall, forming a tunnel dielectric layer, forming a semiconductor channel material, selectively removing the second material layers without removing the first material layers, etching the discrete charge storage material layer to form a plurality of separate discrete charge storage segments, depositing an insulating material between the first material layers, selectively removing the first material layers to expose side wall of the discrete charge storage segments, forming a blocking dielectric, and forming control gates on the blocking dielectric.
US08193038B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device, semiconductor chip, and semiconductor wafer
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a semiconductor wafer including a plurality of interconnect layers, the semiconductor wafer including: a plurality of chip-composing portions; a dicing region separating the chip-composing portions from each other; and a plurality of inter-chip interconnects formed in the dicing region and electrically connecting adjacent ones of the chip-composing portions; and forming semiconductor chips by dicing the dicing region so as to divide the chip-composing portions, wherein each of the inter-chip interconnects has a width of an intermediate portion narrower than widths of connection end portions connected to the adjacent ones of the chip-composing portions.
US08193021B2 Nitride semiconductor and method for manufacturing same
A nitride semiconductor includes: a substrate having a major surface including a first crystal polarity surface and a second crystal polarity surface different from the first crystal polarity surface; and a single polarity layer provided above the major surface and having a single crystal polarity.
US08193014B2 Manufacturing method of light-emitting diode
A manufacturing method of an LED comprises attaching an LED epitaxial wafer (LED wafer) to an expanding tape, dicing the LED wafer on the expanding tape longitudinally and laterally to a certain element size to divide into a plurality of LED elements, expanding the expanding tape to a certain size to form an enlarged expanding tape, placing respective pairs of element electrodes of the plurality of LED elements that are attached to the enlarged expanding tape on respective pairs of electrodes on a printed-circuit board assembly collectively to perform a bonding, and removing the enlarged expanding tape from the plurality of the LED elements.
US08193012B2 LED module fabrication method
A method of fabricating a LED module by: bonding one or multiple LED chips and multiple conducting terminals to a circuit substrate, and then molding a packing cup on the circuit substrate over by over molding for enabling the LED chip(s) and the conducting terminals to be exposed to the outside of the packing cup, and then molding a lens on the packing cup and the LED chip(s) by over-molding. By means of directly molding the lens on the packing cup and the LED chip(s), no any gap is left in the lens, avoiding deflection, total reflection or light attenuation and enhancing luminous brightness and assuring uniform distribution of output light.
US08193006B2 Method of chip repair by stacking a plurality of bad dies
A method for repairing a chip with a stacked structure of chips is provided. First, a first chip is provided, which includes a first circuit block with a first function, a second circuit block with a second function, and a signal path electrically connected to the first and the second circuit blocks. A second chip is provided, which includes a third circuit block with the first function. The functions of the first and the second chips are verified. The first circuit block is disabled if the first circuit block is defective. The third circuit block is electrically connected to the signal path to replace the first circuit block and provide the first function if the second circuit block is functional and the third circuit block is functional.
US08193003B2 Method and system for detection of biomaterials using magnetic marker
Accurate measurement cannot be performed due to magnetic signals from magnetic impurities included in a specimen container. By finding a difference between two measurement signals obtained by applying an external magnetic field for orientation to respective normal and reverse directions, the magnetic signals from the magnetic impurities included in the specimen container which are not dependent on the external magnetic field for orientation can be cancelled. The influence of the magnetic impurities included in the specimen container is reduced, and the signal of the intended bound magnetic marker can be measured with high sensitivity.
US08193000B2 Screening test for biodiesel fuel
A colorimetric test for determining the presence or absence of biodiesel in a diesel fuel sample. The colorimetric test involves adding concentrated sulfuric acid to a sample of diesel fuel and observing any color change of the sample. A darkening of the diesel fuel sample indicates the presence of biodiesel. The degree to which the color changes after the addition of the sulfuric acid is proportional to the amount of biodiesel in the sample and therefore can be used to determine the amount of biodiesel in the sample. The reagent(s), sample containers and any necessary color scale can be provided in a kit for field testing.
US08192999B2 Method for the identification of macromolecule targets of analytes
There is provided a method for the identification of macromolecule targets of analytes such as drugs in biological samples comprising complex mixtures of macromolecules. A biological sample is contacted with one or more analyte and the mixture is resolved such that the analyte and its target are co-eluted and analyzed to identify analyte-target complexes.
US08192996B2 Method for storing tetrazolium compound, stabilizer used in the same, and tetrazolium compound reagent solution using the method
A method for storing a tetrazolium compound stably is provided. The tetrazolium compound is stored in the presence of sodium azide. The tetrazolium compound (A) and the sodium azide (B) are present at a ratio (A:B) in the range from 1:0.02 to 1:6.2. Furthermore, when the tetrazolium compound is stored as a solution, the concentration of the sodium azide is in the range from 0.08 to 3.2 mmol/L and the concentration of the tetrazolium compound is in the range from 0.5 to 8 mmol/L. As the tetrazolium compound, it is preferable to use 2-(4-iodophenyl)-3-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-5-(2,4-disulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium salt.
US08192991B2 Methods of eliciting or boosting a cellular immune response
Site-specific Listeria integration vectors and methods for their use are provided. The subject vectors include a bacteriophage integrase gene and a bacteriophage attachment site, where in many embodiments the bacteriophage that is the source of these elements is a listeriophage. In certain embodiments, the subject vectors further include a multiple cloning site, where the multiple cloning site may further include a polypeptide coding sequence, e.g., for a heterologous antigen. The subject vectors and methods find use in a variety of different applications, including the study of Listeria species and the preparation of Listeria vaccines.
US08192986B2 Compositions and methods for treatment of protein misfolding diseases
Disclosed are methods for identifying compounds that modulate huntingtin mediated impairment of protein degradation pathways. Compounds identified by such screens can be used as candidate drugs for the treatment of prevention of polyglutamine diseases such as Huntington's Disease.
US08192983B2 Incubator
An incubator including a temperature-controlled room adjusted to a predetermined environment condition for culturing a sample of an incubation container at inside of the temperature-controlled room, the incubator including a shifting mechanism for moving a position of the incubation container at inside of the temperature-controlled room by a motor, a temperature adjusting section for adjusting a temperature at inside of the temperature-controlled room, an operating information generating section for generating operating information with regard to a position of operating and a time period of operating the motor prior to operating the motor, an estimated variation outputting section for outputting an estimation variation of a temperature state by operating the motor based on the operating information, and a controlling section for controlling the temperature adjusting section to cancel a temperature change of an amount of the estimated variation in synchronism with operating the motor.
US08192981B2 Bioreactor system
In one aspect the invention provides a bioreactor system for the production of tissue prostheses. The system includes a bioreactor, a culture medium reservoir coupled to the bioreactor by a first conduit and a second conduit, a pump operable to pump fluid into and draw fluid out of a pumping chamber defined in the bioreactor to generate a pulsatile flow of culture medium through the reservoir and bioreactor via said first and second conduits, one or more flow meters operable to generate flow rate signals representative of the rate of culture medium flow through one or both of said first and second conduits, and a controller arranged to receive said flow rate signals from said one or more flow meters and to control the pump means in response to said received flow rate signals to provide a desired rate of culture medium flow.
US08192968B2 Method for the production of a fermentation product from a pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock
A method for obtaining a fermentation product from a sugar hydrolysate obtained from a feedstock containing hemicellulose, by (i) removing suspended fiber solids from said sugar hydrolysate to obtain a clarified sugar solution; (ii) fermenting xylose in the clarified sugar solution in a fermentation reaction with yeast to produce a fermentation broth comprising the fermentation product; (iii) separating the yeast from the fermentation broth to produce a yeast slurry; (vi) treating the yeast slurry thus obtained with an oxidant to kill microbial contaminants, thereby an oxidant-treated yeast slurry; (v) re-introducing at least a portion of the oxidant-treated yeast back to step (ii) to increase the concentration of yeast in said fermentation reaction; and (vi) recovering the fermentation product.
US08192949B2 Microaggregates including endothelial cells
Microaggregates which mimic the native environment of cells contained in biopsied tissue are used to assess and predict the effects of various treatments on the viability of cell types contained in the microaggregate.
US08192940B2 Method for amplifying unknown DNA sequence adjacent to known sequence
The present invention relates to a method for amplifying an unknown nucleotide sequence adjacent to a known nucleotide sequence, which comprises the step of performing an amplification of the unknown nucleotide sequence using a DNA walking annealing control primer (DW-ACP) and a target specific primer (TSP) hybridizable with a site on the known nucleotide sequence.
US08192937B2 Methods for quantification of microRNAs and small interfering RNAs
The invention relates to ribonucleic acids, probes and methods for detection, quantification as well as monitoring the expression of mature microRNAs and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). The invention furthermore relates to methods for monitoring the expression of other non-coding RNAs, mRNA splice variants, as well as detecting and quantifying RNA editing, allelic variants of single transcripts, mutations, deletions, or duplications of particular exons in transcripts, e.g., alterations associated with human disease such as cancer. The invention furthermore relates to methods for detection, quantification as well as monitoring the expression of deoxy nucleic acids.
US08192933B2 Methods of detecting mutations associated with ataxia-ocular apraxia 2 (AOA2)
Methods of identifying polymorphisms associated with ataxia-ocular apraxia 2 (AOA2), are described. The polymorphisms associated with AOA2 include specific mutations in the senataxin (SETX) gene. Also described are methods of diagnosis of AOA2, as well as methods of assessing an individual for carrier status for AOA2.
US08192922B2 Method of optical fabrication of three-dimensional polymeric structures with out of plane profile control
A method of optical fabrication comprises coating a substrate with a photocuring material, controlling the application of light to the photocuring material so as to control the intensity and pattern of the light both in-plane and out of plane, and developing the photocuring material.
US08192918B2 Lithographic printing plate precursor
A lithographic printing plate precursor is disclosed which comprises a support having a hydrophilic surface or which is provided with a hydrophilic layer, and a coating thereon, said coating comprising an IR absorbing agent and a contrast enhancing compound, characterized in that said contrast enhancing compound has the structure of formula (I). The printing plate comprising the contrast enhancing compound improves the thermoresponsivity of the coating and is capable of improving the resistance of the coating in the non-exposed areas against the alkaline developer.
US08192916B2 Photosensitive resin composition, photosensitive element, method for forming resist pattern and method for producing printed wiring board
A photosensitive resin composition comprising: (A) a binder polymer; (B) a photopolymerizable compound that has an ethylenically unsaturated bond; and (C1) a compound represented by general formula (1) below, wherein, at least one R represents a C1-10 alkoxy group or a C1-12 alkyl group; the sum of a, b, and c is 1 to 6; and when the sum of a, b, and c is 2 to 6, each R may be the same as or different from one another.
US08192909B2 Chemically prepared porous toner
The present invention provides a porous toner. The porous toner has a porosity of greater that 20 percent. The toner can include vinyl polymers, copolymers of styrene monomers and polyesters. In addition a method of manufacture of the toner particles is provided.
US08192906B2 Black toner formulation
A black toner formulation includes at least one non-black colorant selected from the group consisting of dyes, pigments, and combinations thereof. The black toner formulation has a total pigment loading of about 2 percent to less than or equal to about 9.5 percent by weight of total weight of the black toner formulation.
US08192904B2 Electrophotographic photoconductor, and image forming apparatus and process cartridge using the same
An electrophotographic photoconductor including: an outermost layer, wherein the outermost layer comprises an amino group-containing acryl-modified polyorganosiloxane, wherein the amino group-containing acryl-modified polyorganosiloxane is a copolymer in which a polyorganosiloxane represented by the following structural formula (1) and an acrylic monomer are graft-polymerized
US08192899B2 Pellicle for photolithography
There is provided a pellicle for photolithography having a plurality of air vents formed in a pellicle frame for photolithography and having the air vents covered with a dustproof filter in which the air vents in the frame are counterbored and a counterbored wall surface of the air vents is tapered.
US08192888B2 Two layer electrolyte supported fuel cell stack
Self-supporting thin film membranes of ceramic materials and related electrochemical cells and cell stacks. The membrane structure is divided into a plurality of self-supporting thin membrane regions by a network of thicker integrated support ribs. The membrane structure may be prepared by laminating a thin electrolyte layer with a thicker ceramic layer that forms a network of support ribs.
US08192879B2 Method for maximum net power calculation for fuel cell system based on online polarization curve estimation
An algorithm for determining the maximum net power available from a fuel cell stack as the stack degrades over time using an online adaptive estimation of a polarization curve of the stack. The algorithm separates the current density range of the stack into sample regions, and selects a first sample region from the far left of the estimated polarization curve. The algorithm then calculates the cell voltage for that current density sample region, and determines whether the calculated cell voltage is less than or equal to a predetermined cell voltage limit. If the calculated cell voltage is not less than the cell voltage limit, then the algorithm selects the next sample region along the polarization curve. When the calculated cell voltage does reach the cell voltage limit, then the algorithm uses that current density for the sample region being analyzed to calculate the maximum power of the fuel cell stack.
US08192875B2 Method of manufacturing lithium-ion secondary battery, electrolytic solution, and lithium-ion secondary battery
A method of manufacturing a lithium-ion secondary battery includes an electrolytic solution making step of making an electrolytic solution by mixing at least an organic solvent and an electrolytic salt together, an electrode insertion step of inserting an anode and a cathode into an outer case, and a liquid injection step of injecting the electrolytic solution into the outer case; wherein the electrolytic solution making step or the liquid injection step adds a compound having an alkyl group with a carbon number of 10 or greater and an epoxy, vinyl, or silanol group at a terminal to the electrolytic solution.
US08192872B2 Copper collector for secondary battery comprising Cu-nitrile compound complex formed on surface thereof
Disclosed are copper foil or net comprising a Cu-nitrile compound complex formed on the surface thereof, a method for preparing the same, and a lithium secondary battery that comprises an electrode using the same copper foil or net as a collector. The lithium secondary battery, which uses a copper collector comprising a Cu-nitrile compound complex formed on the surface thereof through the application of a certain voltage level, can prevent the corrosion of Cu occurring at a voltage of 3.6V or higher under overdischarge conditions away from the normal drive condition, and thus can significantly improve the capacity restorability after overdischarge.
US08192870B2 Supercapacitor and battery electrode containing thermally exfoliated graphite oxide
A supercapacitor or battery electrode containing a modified graphite oxide material, which is a thermally exfoliated graphite oxide with a surface area of from about 300 m2/g to 2600 m2/g.
US08192868B2 Lithium ion battery before pre-doping and lithium ion battery manufacturing method
A lithium ion battery before pre-doping includes: a negative electrode member before initial charge having a negative active material before initial charge; a positive electrode member; an electrolyte body; a battery case; and a lithium ion supply body formed by a lithium compound capable of emitting lithium ions when positive voltage is applied to it. The lithium ion supply body is arranged so that it is at least partially in contact with the inner exposed surface of the battery case. The negative electrode member before pre-doping is electrically insulated from the metal case member. The lithium ion supply body and the negative active material before initial charge are respectively in contact with the electrolyte body.
US08192865B2 Negative electrode for hybrid energy storage device
A negative electrode for a hybrid energy storage device includes a current collector; a corrosion-resistant conductive coating secured to at least one face of the current collector; a sheet comprising activated carbon adhered to the corrosion-resistant conductive coating; a tab portion extending from a side of the negative electrode; and a lug comprising a lead or lead alloy that encapsulates at least part of the tab portion.
US08192854B2 Microbial fuel cell treatment of ethanol fermentation process water
The present invention relates to a method for removing inhibitor compounds from a cellulosic biomass-to-ethanol process which includes a pretreatment step of raw cellulosic biomass material and the production of fermentation process water after production and removal of ethanol from a fermentation step, the method comprising contacting said fermentation process water with an anode of a microbial fuel cell, said anode containing microbes thereon which oxidatively degrade one or more of said inhibitor compounds while producing electrical energy or hydrogen from said oxidative degradation, and wherein said anode is in electrical communication with a cathode, and a porous material (such as a porous or cation-permeable membrane) separates said anode and cathode.
US08192853B2 Method for toughening via the production of spiral architectures through powder loaded polymeric extrusion and toughened materials formed thereby
A toughened composite material, having a first phase defining a matrix and a plurality of typically second phase particles dispersed in the first phase matrix. Each respective particle is characterized by a predetermined geometric architecture, such as a spiral shape. The presence of the geometrically distinct dispersed second phase operates to deflect and attenuate crack propagation.
US08192852B2 Ceramic insulator and methods of use and manufacture thereof
One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to an insulator comprising a ceramic composition, wherein the ceramic composition comprises about 25-60% SiO2; 15-35% R2O3, wherein the R2O3 is 3-15% B2O3 and 5-25% Al2O3; 4-25% MgO+0-7% Li2O, wherein the total of MgO+Li2O is between about 6-25%; 2-20% R2O, wherein the R2O is 0-15% Na2O, 0-15% K2O, 0-15% Rb2O; 0-15% Rb2O; 0-20% Cs2O; and 4-20% F; crystalline grains, wherein the crystalline grains are substantially oriented to extend in a first direction to provide improved insulating properties in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the first direction is circumferential and the direction perpendicular to the first direction is radial; and a first zone and a second zone, wherein the first zone is in compression and the second zone is in tension.
US08192851B2 Dielectric ceramic composition and electronic device
A dielectric ceramic composition comprises a main component including BaTiO3, a first subcomponent including BaZrO3, a second subcomponent including an oxide of Mg, a third subcomponent including an oxide of rare earth, a fourth subcomponent including an oxide of at least one element selected from Mn, Cr, Co and Fe, and a fifth subcomponent including an oxide of at least one element selected from Si, Al, Ge, B and Li. At least a part of dielectric particles constituting the dielectric ceramic composition comprises a surface diffusion structure comprised of a central layer and a diffusion layer therearound. CR and CRmax, respectively defined as a concentration of said “R” in a proximity point to a boundary face of the dielectric particle and a maximum concentration of the “R” in the diffusion layer, satisfy a relation of CRmax/CR>1. Also, CM and CMmax, respectively defined as a concentration of said Mg in a proximity point to a boundary face of the dielectric particle and a maximum concentration of Mg in the diffusion layer, satisfy a relation of CMmax/CM>1.
US08192844B2 Method for surface hardening substances by application of particularly transparent polymethacrylate layers
The present invention describes a process for the surface finishing of materials via application of specific polymethacrylate layers. The polymethacrylate layers are composed of blends of at least two (co)polymers of polymethacrylates, and specific “reactive monomers” are present here in a polymerized mixture which forms the polymethacrylate layer. At the application temperature established, these form a chemical and, where appropriate, also a physical bond to the substrate, and therefore have adhesion-promoting action.
US08192841B2 Microencapsulated delivery vehicle having an aqueous core
Microencapsulated delivery vehicles comprising an active agent are disclosed. The microencapsulated delivery vehicles may be introduced into products such that, upon activation, the product provides a functional benefit to a substrate, such as a user's skin.
US08192840B2 Spring with high durability and method of coating the same
A spring with high durability has a coating film composed of an epoxy resin powder coating containing softening agent which contains an epoxy resin and a softening agent comprising a thermoplastic resin for improving impact resistance of the coating film. A method of coating a spring with high durability comprises a coating step of making an epoxy resin powder coating containing softening agent which contains an epoxy resin and a softening agent comprising a thermoplastic resin for improving impact resistance of a coating film adhere to a surface on which the coating film is formed, and a baking step of baking the epoxy resin powder coating containing softening agent adhered to the surface.
US08192835B2 Bone substitute material
A method for fabricating a substitute component for bone, including the processes of: provision of a chemical spray including at least three of calcium chloride, hydrogen phosphate, hydrogen carbonate and water to form a combined solution; reaction and precipitation of the combined solution onto a substrate; allowing the precipitated particles to form a porous structure on the substrate; applying substantially isostatic pressure to the porous structure to form a compressed structure; and (optional) providing one or more through-holes in the compressed structure to promote osteoinduction.
US08192828B2 Material formed of multiple links and method of forming same
A material includes a frame having at least one elongate member formed of a first polymer. At least one link is formed of a second polymer, with a portion of each link co-molded about a portion of at least one elongate member, and at least one link movable with respect to a corresponding elongate member.
US08192813B2 Crosslinked polyethylene articles and processes to produce same
A high strength, flexible crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) material is provided wherein the base polymer is intermixed with a polymer modifier which affects the amorphous region of the polymer, leaving the crystalline portion of the base polymer virtually unaffected. Consequently, the amorphous region's density is lowered, resulting in a more flexible final product, while the crosslinked molecular structure and/or crystalline portion of the polymer, which controls the strength of the base polymer, remains strong. The polymer modifier can comprise a hydrocarbon fluid such as PAO, Group III basestocks, or a gas-to-liquid hydrocarbon. A method for producing the plastic material is also provided. The plastic material has particular utility in the production of tubing, piping, and conduits for transporting gases, liquids, and the like, as well as wire and cable coatings such as jacketing and insulation.
US08192807B2 Ring plasma jet method and apparatus for making an optical fiber preform
A method and apparatus for making an optical fiber preform, including injecting a plasma gas source into the first end of a tubular member; generating a ring plasma flame with the plasma gas source flowing through a plasma gas feeder nozzle, the plasma gas feeder nozzle including: an inner tube, an outer tube, wherein the plasma gas source is injected between the inner tube and the outer tube to produce the ring plasma flame, such that at least a portion of the ring plasma flame is directed radially toward the inner surface of the tubular member; traversing the tubular member along the longitudinal axis relative to the plasma flame; depositing at least one soot layer on the interior surface of the tubular member by introducing reagent chemicals into the plasma flame; and fusing all of the soot layers into a glass material on the interior surface of the tubular member.
US08192804B2 Photocurable ink composition, ink jet recording method, and recording matter
A photocurable ink composition includes a dendritic polymer, a monomer expressed by CH2═CR1—COO—R2—O—CH═CH—R3 (R1 denotes a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 denotes an organic residue having a carbon number of 2 to 20, and R3 denotes a hydrogen atom or an organic residue having a carbon number of 1 to 11), and a photo-polymerization initiator.
US08192797B2 Fabric treatment for reinforced elastomeric articles
A fabric or cord is treated with an elastomeric compound comprises 20-80 parts per hundred cross-linkable materials of liquid elastomer. The liquid elastomer has a complex dynamic viscosity less than 5 McP (5,000 N*s/m2) at a temperature between 20° C. and the maximum flow temperature TF, and the elastomeric compound the elastomeric material, prior to cure, has a complex dynamic viscosity of less than 5 McP (5,000 N*s/m2) for at least 2 minutes at a maximum flow temperature TF. The coated fabric and cord materials are useful as facing fabrics for power transmission products.
US08192793B2 Coated cutting insert for milling applications
Coated cemented carbide inserts are particularly useful for wet or dry milling steels. The inserts are formed by a cemented carbide body including WC, NbC and a W-alloyed Co binder phase, and a coating including an innermost layer of TiCxNyOz, with equiaxed grains, a layer of TiCxNyOz with columnar grains and a layer of α-Al2O3.
US08192791B2 Leather-surface repair-composition and the method for surface repair of leather surfaces
Leather-surface repair set consisting at least of a degreaser and of a composition comprising an emulsion of polyurethane and at least one pigment component and further comprising at least one further component which allows to relatively increase or decrease the elasticity of the reacted composition. Particularly, a 2-ethylhexyl-, 2-isodecyladipate and/or triisodecylphosphate are used as the further component.A method for surface repair of leather surfaces with the steps of treating the surface area to be repaired with a degreasing agent applying a repair composition at least consisting of an emulsion of polyurethane to the spots to be repaired by filling the surface spots to be repaired with said emulsion and allowing the emulsion to polymerize.
US08192788B1 Single step current collector deposition process for energy storage devices
The present invention is directed to methods of forming current collectors of an energy storage device. The current collectors can be formed either before forming the anode/cathode, or after forming the anode/cathode. In one embodiment, a current collector material is simultaneously deposited on an anode support structure and a cathode support structure to form an anode current collector and a cathode current collector. In another embodiment, a current collector material is simultaneously deposited on an anode and a cathode to form an anode current collector and a cathode current collector.
US08192782B2 Enzymatic oil-degumming method
A process of enzymatic degumming edible oils, comprising treating edible oil with a lipid acyltransferase so as to transfer an acyl group from a major part of the phospholipid to one or more acyl acceptors, wherein the acyl acceptor may be any compound comprising a hydroxyl group. In one embodiment preferably the acyl acceptor is water and in another embodiment preferably the acyl acceptor is one or more sterols and/or stanols. When the acyl acceptor is a stanol and/or sterol, one or more sterol esters and/or stanol esters are produced. The lipid acyltransferase for use in the process of the present invention may comprise one or more of the following amino acid sequences: SEQ ID NO: 1, SEQ ID NO: 3, SEQ ID NO: 4, SEQ ID NO: 5, SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 8, SEQ ID NO: 9, SEQ ID NO: 10, SEQ ID NO: 11, SEQ ID NO: 12, SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 14, or SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16, SEQ ID NO: 17, SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 36, SEQ ID NO: 38, SEQ ID NO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 41, SEQ ID NO: 45, SEQ ID NO: 47, SEQ ID NO: 50 or an amino acid sequence which has 75% or more identity thereto. A novel lipid acyltransferase comprising the amino acid sequence shown as SEQ ID NO: 16 is also taught.
US08192773B2 Carotenoid-based pigmenter
A stabilized carotenoid-based pigmenter free of synthetic antioxidants for the addition to animal feed to add color to tissues of animals fed the animal feed. The carotenoid-based pigmenter contains free-form carotenoids obtained from natural sources through a saponification reaction. A natural antioxidant, such as grape seed extracts, green tea extracts, clove bud oil, clove leaf oil, Vitamin C, cinnamon leaf oil, oleoresin turmeric, tocopherol, tocotrienol, rosemary extracts and gallic acid or salts thereof combined with a diluent, preferably glycerol or a glycerol-like substance, is added to the pigmenter after the saponification reaction.
US08192770B2 Enzyme preparation for adhesion-molded foods and method for producing adhesion-molded food
By using transglutaminase with calcium chloride or magnesium chloride as active ingredients, food raw materials such as meat pieces can be sufficiently adhesion-molded without using a protein material.
US08192769B2 Protein hydrolysate and plant sterol containing composition for improving serum lipid profile and preventing atherosclerosis
The invention relates to a terapeutical composition comprising a protein hydrolysate and a plant sterol, wherein the weight ratio of the plant sterol to the protein hydrolysate is from 1:0.02 to 1:150. The invention also relates to a terapeutical composition comprising a protein hydrolysate and a synthetic emulsifier and/or a lipid based gain fraction having emulsifying properties. Said compositions can be used in a pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or food product for improving serum lipid profile.
US08192763B2 Processed ECM materials with enhanced component profiles
Described are medical graft materials and devices having improved properties relating to their component profiles.
US08192756B2 Gastric retained gabapentin dosage form
A method of treatment for epilepsy and other disease states is described, which comprises the delivery of gabapentin in a gastric retained dosage form.
US08192749B2 Methods of simultaneously treating ocular rosacea and acne rosacea
A method for simultaneously treating ocular rosacea and acne rosacea in a human in need thereof comprising administering systemically to said human a tetracycline compound in an amount that is effective to treat ocular rosacea and acne rosacea but has substantially no antibiotic activity.
US08192740B2 Pharmaceutical composition comprising anti-GRP78 antibody as active ingredient
An object of the present invention is to provide novel pharmaceutical compositions using anti-GRP78 antibodies. More particularly, the present invention provides a novel method of cancer treatment using anti-GRP78 antibodies, novel cell growth inhibitors and anticancer agents that contain anti-GRP78 antibodies, as well as novel anti-GRP78 antibodies. The present inventor prepared antitumor antibodies to target GRP78, the localization of which in cancer cells changed to the cell membrane. The inventor successfully obtained an anti-GRP78 antibody that would bind specifically to the cell surface of cancer cells, leading to the accomplishment of the above-mentioned objects.
US08192720B2 Compositions and methods for detection, prevention, and treatment of anthrax and other infectious diseases
Compositions and methods for the detection, prevention, or treatment of anthrax or other infectious diseases. In one aspect, the present invention provides methods for immunizing humans or animals against Bacillus anthracis or other capsulated pathogens. The methods include administering a capsular polypeptide of a pathogen of interest and a CD40 agonist to a human or animal. The capsular polypeptide or the CD40 agonist is administered in such an amount or frequency that an immunoprotective response can be elicited in the human or animal against the pathogen of interest. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of using passive immunization with anti-capsular polypeptide antibodies to prevent or treat infections caused by Bacillus anthracis or other pathogens. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides methods useful for diagnosis of anthrax by detection of capsular polypeptide in serum or other biological samples.
US08192714B2 Method for manufacturing carbon nanotubes
A method for manufacturing carbon nanotubes of the present invention includes the steps of: preparing at least one metal selected from a group consisting of iron, cobalt and nickel and an organic compound: and forming carbon nanotubes by using the organic compound as a carbon source, wherein the metal and the organic compound are put into a heating vessel having a substance capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat, and the organic compound is brought into contact with the metal in a state where the inside of the heating vessel is heated at a temperature of 600° C. to 900° C. by applying the electromagnetic energy to the heating vessel so as to form the carbon nanotubes.
US08192713B2 Method of incorporating a mark in CVD diamond
A method of incorporating a mark of origin, such as a brand mark, or fingerprint in a CVD single crystal diamond material, includes the steps of providing a diamond substrate, providing a source gas, dissociating the source gas thereby allowing homoepitaxial diamond growth, and introducing in a controlled manner a dopant into the source gas in order to produce the mark of origin or fingerprint in the synthetic diamond material. The dopant is selected such that the mark of origin or fingerprint is not readily detectable or does not affect the perceived quality of the diamond material under normal viewing conditions, but which mark of origin or fingerprint is detectable or rendered detectable under specialised conditions, such as when exposed to light or radiation of a specified wavelength, for example. Detection of the mark of origin or fingerprint may be visual detection or detection using specific optical instrumentation, for example.
US08192711B2 Process for production of cathode active material for lithiun ion secondary battery
To provide a process for producing a surface modified lithium-containing composite oxide, which is excellent in discharge capacity, volume capacity density, safety, durability for charge and discharge cycles and an excellent rate property, at a low production cost.The present invention is characterized in that a process for producing a surface modified lithium-containing composite oxide, wherein a lithium titanium composite oxide is contained in the surface layer of particles of a lithium-containing composite oxide represented by the formula: LipNxMyOzFa, where N is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Co, Mn and Ni, M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Sn, alkaline earth metal elements and transition metal elements other than Co, Mn and Ni, 0.9≦p≦1.3, 0.9≦x≦2.0, 0≦y≦0.1, 1.9≦z≦4.2, and 0≦a≦0.05, which comprises impregnating a solution having a lithium source and a titanium source dissolved therein, followed by heat treatment at a determined temperature, to obtain the surface modified lithium-containing composite oxide, wherein the titanium contained in the surface layer is from 0.01 to 1.95 mol %.
US08192703B2 Reactor and reacting method
To improve reaction efficiency by increasing a contact area of first and second reactants per unit volume, without reducing dimensions of the inlet paths for the first and second reactants in a layer-thickness direction, a channel includes a first inlet path having the first reactant, a parallel second inlet path separated from the first inlet path and having the second reactant, a junction channel for causing the first and second reactants to join as separate laminar flows, and a parallel reaction channel connected with a downstream side of the junction channel for permitting the laminar flows of the first and second reactants to react at a contact interface thereof. A dimension of the reaction channel in the layer-thickness direction perpendicular to the contact interface is set to be smaller than the sum of the dimensions of the first inlet path and the second inlet path in the layer-thickness direction.
US08192694B2 Polyester production system employing an unagitated esterification reactor
A polyester production system employing a vertically elongated esterification reactor. The esterification reactor of the present invention is an improvement over conventional CSTR esterification reactors because, for example, in one embodiment, the reactor requires little or no mechanical agitation. Further, in one embodiment, the positioning of the inlets and outlets of the reactor provides improved operational performance and flexibility over CSTRs of the prior art.
US08192691B2 Hydrocarbon conversion unit including a reaction zone receiving transferred catalyst
One exemplary embodiment can include an apparatus for transferring catalyst from a regeneration zone to a reaction zone in a hydrocarbon conversion unit. The hydrocarbon conversion unit can include a transfer vessel, and first, second, and third lines. The transfer vessel can transfer regenerated catalyst from the regeneration zone at a first pressure to the reaction zone at a second pressure where the second pressure is greater than the first pressure. Generally, the first line communicates the catalyst to the transfer vessel and is coupled to a first valve to allow catalyst into the transfer vessel and the second line communicates the catalyst from the transfer vessel and is coupled to a second valve to allow catalyst out of the transfer vessel. The third line for allowing the passage of gas therethrough may be at a pressure higher than the first pressure having a first portion communicating with the transfer vessel and having a second portion coupled to third and fourth valves. Each of the third and fourth valves can have a first position that is open and a second position that is closed, which may correspond, respectively, to the opening and closing of the first and second valves to allow gas to pass therethrough.
US08192687B2 Method and system for measuring water hardness
Prior to adding detergent or chelant, the conductivity of water in a washing chamber is measured. The maximum concentration of hard water ions that could correspond to the measured conductivity is determined, i.e., it is assumed that all of the conductivity is from calcium and/or magnesium ions in the water even though other ions may in fact be contributing to the measured conductivity. Enough chelating agent is added to the chamber to sequester this maximum concentration of hard water ions and the conductivity is measured again. Using the two conductivity measurements, the actual concentration of hard water ions is determined. A chelant factor based on the actual concentration of hard water ions is then used to determine the amount of chelant to be added for subsequent wash cycles to sequester all of the hard water ions.
US08192685B2 Molecular separators, concentrators, and detectors preparatory to sensor operation, and methods of minimizing false positives in sensor operations
As an elegant solution for minimizing false positives returned by a sensor tuned to an analyte molecule, filters constructed of carbon nanotubes are positioned relative to the sensor to limit the sensor to being exposed to molecules within a defined range of sizes, with too-big molecules being excluded from reaching the sensor by one filter, and too-small molecules being pumped out through another, finer filter before the sensor is operated.
US08192684B2 Decontamination of enclosed space using gaseous chlorine dioxide
A method for gas phase application of chlorine dioxide within an enclosed volume that includes the steps of: climatizing the enclosed volume to achieve a relative humidity (RH) in the range of about 5% to about 56%; generating chlorine dioxide gas; and introducing the chlorine dioxide gas under specified conditions of chlorine dioxide gas concentration and contact time, the specified conditions being effective to eliminate contaminants within the closed volume, and further to mitigate corrosion within the enclosed volume during the gas phase application.
US08192680B2 Method for firing ceramic honeycomb bodies in a kiln
A method for fabricating ceramic honeycomb structural bodies that includes conveying at least one green honeycomb structural body of a first type and at least one green honeycomb structural body of a second type through a kiln in a manner which reduces cracking or fissures in the fired objects.
US08192676B2 Container having barrier properties and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a multilayer or a monolayer plastic container is disclosed. The container has a barrier layer manufactured from (i) a polyester resin, preferably an aromatic polyester resin such as a polyethylene terephthalate, (ii) a polyamide material, preferably an aromatic polyamide material, and (iii) an oxygen scavenging material, preferably a transition method. The present invention also provides containers having a multilayer or a monolayer body. In the preparation of the barrier layer. a preform first is prepared by an injection-molding process wherein a preblend containing a diluent polyester, polyamide material, and an oxygen scavenging material is added to a base polyester during the injection molding process. The preform then is expanded to form a container.
US08192663B2 Method for manufacturing a tyre and extruder for producing a semi-finished elastomeric product
A method for manufacturing a tire includes making at least one semi-finished elementary product of elastomeric material and depositing it in adjacent turns on a toroidal support. Making the at least one elementary product includes extruding the elastomeric material through an extruder head including a bushing defining a tapered extrusion channel. An extruder includes a chamber, at least one helical screw disposed in the chamber, and the extruder head. The head includes an outer tubular body attached by one end to the chamber, a bushing disposed inside the body to define the tapered extrusion channel, and a die disposed inside the body. A ratio of an area of the inlet section to an area of the outlet section is greater than 5:1 and less than 100:1 and a ratio of a diameter of the inlet section to a length of the bushing is greater than 0.1 and less than 1:1.
US08192661B2 Process and apparatus for the production of tapes
A process for the production of tapes from a web of polymeric material, as well as an apparatus for carrying out the process, in which a polymer melt is extruded to form the web, which is then cooled, and drawn off. The web is then cut to form a tape sheet composed of a plurality of tapes. According to the invention, before its drawing, the sheet of tapes is divided into several groups of tapes and drawn separately. For this, a drawing device is provided with which the tapes are drawn separately after division of the sheet of tapes.
US08192658B2 Cementitious exterior sheathing product having improved interlaminar bond strength
The present invention provides exterior building products, such as roofing and siding, shake, shingles, siding, sheathing, panels, planks, vertical siding, soffit panels, fencing, decking, fascia, corner posts, column corners and trim boards in which a plurality of cementitious layers are provided with an improved interlaminar bond by employing a resinous bond promoter, a rheological agent, mechanical means to distribute fibers in a direction which is perpendicular to the machine direction so as to bridge between layers in the product, or a combination thereof. These techniques help to increase interlaminar bond strength to improve the mechanical properties of the product. When certain resinous bond promoters are used, the additional benefits of water absorption resistance and pigmentation throughout the product can be provided with minimal expense. Improvements in interlaminar bond strength of about 10 46% were observed with a percent elongation improvement of about 7%.
US08192640B2 Method of manufacturing ink-jet head
A method of manufacturing an ink-jet head is disclosed. The method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: forming a dividing groove such that one surface of a piezoelectric element is divided corresponding to the position of the chamber; filling the dividing groove with a filler; bonding one surface of the piezoelectric element to one surface of the ink-jet head in which the chamber is formed; and polishing the other surface of the piezoelectric element such that the filler is exposed.
US08192638B2 Method for manufacturing multiple layers of waveguides
A method for manufacturing multiple layers of waveguides is disclosed. Initially, a first cladding layer is deposited on a substrate, a first inner cladding layer is then deposited on the first cladding layer, and a first waveguide material is deposited on the first inner cladding layer. The first inner cladding layer and the first waveguide material are then selectively etched to form a first waveguide layer. Next, a second inner cladding layer followed by a second cladding layer are deposited on the first waveguide layer. The second inner cladding layer and the second cladding layer are removed by using a chemical-mechanical polishing process selective to the first waveguide material. A third inner cladding layer followed by a second waveguide material are deposited on the first waveguide material. The third inner cladding layer and the second waveguide material are then selectively etched to form a second waveguide layer. Finally, a fourth inner cladding layer followed by a third cladding layer are deposited on the second waveguide layer.
US08192631B1 Fluid treatment device and method
An apparatus and method for treating raw water. The apparatus includes a vessel having an inlet for the raw water, an outlet for the skimmed water, a rotor mechanism for creating a plurality of gas bubbles within the raw water, and a disperser device operatively associated with the rotor mechanism for dispersing the plurality of gas bubbles from the rotor mechanism within the vessel. The vessel contains raw water. The gas bubbles create an oily froth on top of the raw water. The apparatus further includes a skim tray positioned about the rotor mechanism for removing the oily froth from the top of the raw water and a secondary skimmer positioned within the skim tray. An external skim tank may be configured to deliver a gas to the rotor mechanism and to receive the oily froth from the secondary skimmer.
US08192629B2 Separation process
The present invention relates to a chromatographic separation process for fractionating betaine-containing solutions by utilizing fractions comprising parts of the separation profile as a substituent of the eluent in a novel and inventive manner. The process provides improved separation capacity and separation efficiency without affecting the yield or purity of betaine or other products. The process can especially be applied to sequential SMB separation systems.
US08192627B2 Bio-oil recovery methods
An emulsion-breaking additive is combined with an emulsion concentrate to yield a reaction product and the emulsion concentrate is produced in a process stream and contains entrapped bio-oil. Subsequent phase separating can be accomplished with gravity separation and/or mechanical processing. The emulsion-breaking additive can be native to the process stream. Related systems and methods are also provided.
US08192623B2 Filter structure
A filter element is disclosed. The filter element includes a filter casing defining an inner radial surface, a filter body disposed within the casing, the filter body having an axial, dirty side surface and an axial, clean side surface, wherein the filter body includes fluted filter media having one or more flutes that extend from the dirty side surface to the clean side surface and a pre-filter including an axial, dirty side surface and an axial, clean side surface, the pre-filter arranged within the casing so that the dirty side surface of the pre-filter is proximate the clean side surface of the filter body, wherein the filter body and the pre-filter are fixably retained by the inner radial surface of the casing.
US08192620B2 Ballast water treating apparatus
A ballast-water treating apparatus that improves the performance of an in-line mixer so as to be able to sterilize a large volume of ballast water within a short period of time. There is provided a ballast-water treating apparatus that includes pipelines for feeding water to a ship's ballast tank(s) and for draining water from the ballast tank(s), ballast pumps on the pipelines, an ozone generator or hydrogen peroxide generator, a gas/liquid injection pipe for introducing generated ozone or hydrogen peroxide into the pipelines; and an in-line mixer that has two blades disposed crosswise in a tubular part composed of a main tubular part, a subsidiary tubular part that has an inside diameter smaller than that of the main tubular part and that is furnished with multiple projections, and a tapered part. The ballast-water treating apparatus can simultaneously carry out mechanical destructive sterilization via a swirling flow and sterilization of chemically active substances by micromixing.
US08192608B2 System and method for isotope separation
An anode and cathode for an electrolytic cell configured as a low inductance transmission line to enable control of an interphase at an electrode surface. The anode and cathode are coupled to a switched current source by a low inductance path that includes a parallel plate transmission line, a coaxial transmission line, or both. The switched current source provides fast switching between current sources to provide fast charging and discharging of the double-layer capacitance associated with the electrode surface so that an isotope may be selectively transported to the electrode surface for oxidation or reduction. A photon source may be used to create a population of isotope containing species within the electrolyte. An additional static magnetic field and/or an alternating current magnetic excitation source may be used to modify the composition of the population of species containing the isotope to be separated.
US08192598B2 End-block for a magnetron device with a rotatable target, and vacuum coating apparatus
An end block for a magnetron device having a rotatable target comprises an end block housing having a pivot bearing. The end block housing is adapted on its outer side for attachment on a support unit, and the pivot bearing is adapted on an end that is accessible from outside the end block housing, for connection to the rotatable target. The end block housing is movably attached on the support unit. A vacuum coating apparatus has a vacuum chamber, a magnetron device situated in the vacuum chamber, and a rotatable target rotatably mounted on at least one such end block.
US08192596B2 Ultrahigh-purity copper and process for producing the same
Ultrahigh purity copper having a residual resistance ratio of 38,000 or greater and a purity of 8N or higher (excluding gas components), and in particular ultrahigh purity copper wherein the respective elements of O, C, N, H, S and P as gas components are 1 ppm or less. Further provided is a method of subjecting copper to high purification. An anode and a cathode are partitioned with an anion exchange membrane, an anolyte is intermittently or continuously extracted and introduced into an active carbon treatment vessel, a chlorine-containing material is added to the active carbon treatment vessel so as to precipitate impurities as chloride, active carbon is subsequently poured in and agitated so as to adsorb the precipitated impurities, the adsorbed impurities are removed by filtration, and the obtained high purity copper electrolytic solution is intermittently or continuously introduced into the cathode side and electrolyzed.
US08192591B2 Self-sustaining cracking of hydrocarbons
The present disclosure provides a simple and efficient method for the self-sustaining radiation cracking of hydrocarbons. The method disclosed provides for the deep destructive processing of hydrocarbon chains utilizing hydrocarbon chain decomposition utilizing self-sustaining radiation cracking of hydrocarbon chains under a wide variety of irradiation conditions and temperature ranges (from room temperature to 400° C.). Several embodiments of such method are disclosed herein, including; (i) a special case of radiation-thermal cracking referred to as high-temperature radiation cracking (HTRC); (ii) low temperature radiation cracking (LTRC); and (iii) cold radiation cracking (CRC). Such methods were not heretofore appreciated in the art. In one embodiment, a petroleum feedstock is subjected to irradiation to initiate and/or at least partially propagate a chain reaction between components of the petroleum feedstock. In one embodiment, the treatment results in hydrocarbon chain decomposition; however, other chemical reactions as described herein may also occur.
US08192589B2 Purification of aqueous solutions of organic acids
The invention relates to a method and a device for the purification of an aqueous solution of an organic acid having a boiling point at atmospheric pressure of less than 450° C., which further has approximately 275 g carboxylate ions/l or less, preferably 250 g carboxylate ions/l or less, and preferably less than 1% by weight ionic impurities, calculated on the basis of the total solution. In particular, the invention relates to a method and a device for the continuous purification and concentration, on an industrial scale, of an aqueous solution of an organic acid having a boiling point at atmospheric pressure of less than 450° C. According to the method, this solution is subjected to two or more distillation steps, the first distillation step being carried out at a temperature of from 80° to 150° C. and a pressure of from 50 to 250 mbar, and the second distillation step being carried out at a temperature of from 80° to 200° C. and a pressure of from 0.01 to 50 mbar.
US08192582B2 Apparatus and method for stabilizing a moving web
Devices and methods related to a web stabilizer for stabilizing a moving web with a surface adjacent the moving web and with a supply of moving fluid in a direction parallel to the moving web and a supply of moving fluid in a direction perpendicular to the moving web.
US08192578B2 Chip pickup apparatus, chip pickup method, chip releasing device and chip releasing method
In the pickup apparatus wherein a chip adhered on a sheet is sucked and held by a picking nozzle and then picked up by the nozzle, a sheet push-up member configured by forming flexible elastic material such as rubber in a spherical shape is attached on the abutment supporting surface of the upper surface of a tool, then the push-up surface of the sheet push-up member is followed in a flat surface state along the lower surface of the sheet and abutted thereto in the moving down state of the picking nozzle, and then the push-up surface pushes up the lower surface of the sheet while being deformed in a upwardly protruded curved surface shape in the moving up operation where the picking nozzle moves up together with the chip. Thus, the chip can be released from the sheet from the outer peripheral side of the chip.
US08192577B2 Focus ring, plasma etching apparatus and plasma etching method
In a plasma etching apparatus for performing a plasma etching on a surface of a substrate mounted on a susceptor in a processing vessel, a focus ring is installed to surround the substrate and has a first region at an inner side on a surface thereof, in which an average surface roughness is small such that a reaction product produced during an etching processing is not captured to be deposited, and a second region at an outer side from the first region, in which an average surface roughness is large such that a reaction product produced during the etching process is captured to be deposited. A boundary between the first and the second region is a part where an etching amount is relatively significantly changed compared to other parts while the focus ring is equipped in the plasma etching apparatus and the plasma etching is performed on the substrate.
US08192563B2 Actuator
An actuator (12) is disclosed for example controlling gas flow in a gas turbine engine. The actuator (12) comprises a first portion (14) having shape memory properties, and a second portion (16) formed of substantially the same material as the first portion and having reduced shape memory properties relative to the first portion. The first portion (14) is movable from a first position to a second position at a temperature above the phase transition temperature of the shape memory material of the first portion (14). The second portion (16) is arranged to urge the first portion (14) from the second position to the first position at a temperature below the phase transition temperature of the shape memory material.
US08192555B2 Non-chemical, non-optical edge bead removal process
A method for removing the edge bead from a substrate by applying an impinging stream of a medium that is not a solvent for the material to be removed. The medium is applied to the periphery of the substrate with sufficient force to remove the material. Also an apparatus to perform the inventive method.
US08192553B2 Pot and pan soaking composition
A soaking composition including an alkalinity source, a metal protector, a surfactant, water, a threshold agent, a binding agent, and a polymer blend that functions as a binding agent and a hard water modifier. The polymer blend includes a polymaleic acid, a polycarboxylic acid and a sodium polyacrylate.
US08192549B2 Apparatus and method for hydrolysis of cellulosic material in a two-step process
A system and method for extracting pentose from a slurry of cellulosic material comprising cellulose, water, and optionally acid in a two-stage process.
US08192546B2 Deposition apparatus
A deposition apparatus including: a chamber; a mask assembly including a mask arranged to deposit a material on a substrate included in the chamber and a mask frame for supporting the mask; and a magnet unit including a first magnet unit which contacts (or adheres or chucks or secures) the mask assembly to the substrate by magnetic force; and a second magnet unit corresponding to the mask frame, in order to ensure that the mask more closely contacts the substrate.
US08192545B2 Film formation apparatus, method for forming film, and method for manufacturing photoelectric conversion device
The present invention relates to a film formation apparatus including a first transfer chamber having a roller for sending a substrate, a film formation chamber having a discharging electrode, a buffer chamber provided between the transfer chamber and the film formation chamber or between the film formation chambers, a slit provided in a portion where the substrate comes in and out in the buffer chamber, and a second transfer chamber having a roller for rewinding the substrate. The slit is provided with at least one touch roller, and the touch roller is in contact with a film formation surface of the substrate. In addition, the present invention also relates to a method for forming a film and a method for manufacturing a photoelectric conversion device that are performed by using such a film formation apparatus.
US08192543B2 Nitride crystal, nitride crystal substrate, epilayer-containing nitride crystal substrate, semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A nitride crystal is characterized in that, in connection with plane spacing of arbitrary specific parallel crystal lattice planes of the nitride crystal obtained from X-ray diffraction measurement performed with variation of X-ray penetration depth from a surface of the crystal while X-ray diffraction conditions of the specific parallel crystal lattice planes are satisfied, a uniform distortion at a surface layer of the crystal represented by a value of |d1−d2|/d2 obtained from the plane spacing d1 at the X-ray penetration depth of 0.3 μm and the plane spacing d2 at the X-ray penetration depth of 5 μm is equal to or lower than 2.1×10−3. The above configuration provides the nitride crystal having a crystal surface layer that is evaluated directly and reliably without breaking the crystal so that it can be used in a preferred fashion as a substrate for a semiconductor device as well as the nitride crystal substrate, an epilayer-containing nitride crystal substrate, a semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same.
US08192539B2 Mixtures of zeolite and RAP/RAS
Embodiments of the invention provide method for preparing mixtures of natural or artificial zeolite with at least one of recycled asphalt shingles and recycled asphalt pavement. The prepared mixtures are also within the scope of the invention. Mixtures prepared as described herein may be useful, for example, for mixture with hot mix asphalt and cold patch asphalt.
US08192537B2 Method and apparatus for odor control using panels of activated carbon cloth
A method of containing and reducing unwanted odors and fumes and removing those fumes from the immediate surroundings of the apparatus.
US08192531B2 CO2 absorption solution
Disclosed is a formulation for the absorption of CO2, which comprises water, at least one CO2 absorption compound and a carbonic anhydrase as an activator to enhance the absorption capacity of the CO2 absorption compound. The invention also concerns the use of carbonic anhydrase, in a CO2 absorption solution to increase the CO2 absorption rate of such solution.
US08192528B2 Method for removing mercury from natural gas
A method and apparatus for separating mercury and other undesired constituents from a natural gas stream includes passing the raw gas stream sequentially through a first separator, an amine treatment unit, a cooler, a second separator, a dehydrator, a cooler and a third separator. The first separator receives the natural gas stream and separates hydrocarbon and water condensates from the stream; the amine treatment unit removes acid gases; the cooler reduces the temperature of the gas stream to condense additional hydrocarbons and water that are removed by the second separator; and the dehydrator removes water vapor. Next, the temperature of the stream is reduced by the second cooler to condense the mercury and any remaining hydrocarbon vapors. The third separator includes a vessel having a gas inlet and outlet for discharging processed gas, a deflector disposed proximate the inlet for deflecting mercury and other condensates in the gas stream and a mercury trap disposed at the bottom of the vessel to collect the mercury.
US08192524B2 Process for upgrading natural gas with improved management of CO2
Disclosed herein are processes for producing a CO2-depleted product gas stream. The processes involve feeding a natural gas feed stream comprising greater than about 10 vol % CO2 to at least one membrane unit comprising a plurality of polymer membranes to provide a CO2-rich permeate comprising at least 95 vol % CO2 and a CO2-depleted product gas stream. The polymer membranes comprise a crosslinked polyimide polymer having covalent ester crosslinks and have a CO2 permeance of at least 20 GPU and a CO2/CH4 selectivity of greater than 20, at 35 degrees C. and a feed pressure of 100 psia. Also disclosed herein is an apparatus incorporating the crosslinked polyimide polymer for producing a CO2-depleted product gas stream from a natural gas feed stream.
US08192520B2 Enhanced fertilizer products with polymer adjuvants
Improved fertilizer mineral compositions are provided by coating a mineral, such as gypsum, a member of the Kieserite Group, potassium magnesium sulfate, elemental sulfur, and mixtures thereof, with low pH maleic-itaconic copolymers. The preferred copolymers are aqueous dispersions of acid or partial salt maleic-itaconic copolymers, and are applied by spraying or other means onto the surface of the mineral and allowed to dry. The copolymer coatings increase the solubility of sulfate and calcium or magnesium ions from the fertilizer minerals, allowing accelerated plant availability and uptake of such nutrients.
US08192513B2 Engineered fuel feed stock
Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.
US08192512B2 Engineered fuel feed stock
Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.
US08192510B2 Method for modifying the volatility of petroleum prior to ethanol addition
The invention relates to systems and methods for modifying the volatility of petroleum prior to ethanol addition. The methods can include (a) providing (i) a supply of gasoline, (ii) an ethanol standard, and (iii) a supply of butane; (b) analyzing the volatility of a sample formed by mixing the gasoline and ethanol standard; (c) calculating from the volatility a ratio of butane that can be blended into the sample without causing the sample to pass the one or more fixed volatility limits; and (d) blending butane from the butane supply with gasoline from the gasoline supply at or below the ratio calculated in step (c).
US08192503B2 Method and apparatus for decreasing build height of prosthetic products
An adapter assembly allows mechanical coupling of prosthetic components such that a distal end of a socket adapter (160) extends below a top surface of a prosthetic (100). The adapter assembly may include sets of external threads (314, 324) to operatively engage internally threaded surfaces (170, 110) of the prosthetic and the socket adapter.
US08192496B2 Intervertebral implant and handling instrument for this intervertebral implant
In an intervertebral implant having an abutment element for abutment on at least one vertebral body, in order to be able to apply pulling forces to the abutment element without the risk of damage to the abutment element, it is proposed that the abutment element carry at a side edge a pull element which extends along the side wall of the abutment element and is held on the abutment element by pull members extending at the sides of the abutment element in the direction towards the opposite side edge, the pull element being made of a material whose tensile strength is greater than the tensile strength of the material of the abutment element, and that an interspace for receiving a handling instrument engaging the pull element from behind be arranged at least in a section along the pull element between the pull element and the abutment element. A handling instrument for handling such an intervertebral implant is also described.
US08192488B2 Implantable therapeutic appliance for the cochlea
A set of fenestration burrs, for fenestrating otic capsule bone (34), includes an initial burr (150) and a sequence of fenestration polishing burrs (180). A polishing burr (152, 1521), of each of the burrs (150, 180), carries at least one spiraling flute (166, 166′). Fenestrations (36) piercing the bone (34) formed using the burrs (150, 180) exhibit uniform diameters while excluding bone dust from the inner ear. An implantable casing (72) includes a hollow collar (76) from which projects a hollow sleeve (74) receivable into the fenestration (36). The casing (72) is secured there by at least one prong (92, 102) jutting from the sleeve (74). A therapeutic appliance (134) is insertable into the casing (72). A flange (116) extending from one end of the sleeve (74) carries at least one L-shaped slot (122) open at one end and extending circumferentially around the flange (116).
US08192485B2 Reversible hydrogel systems and methods therefor
The present invention relates to reversible hydrogel systems for medical applications. Particularly, the hydrogel of the present invention is made up of copolymers that can be a hydrogel when in an oxidized state and can be a solution when in a reduced state. A solution of the copolymer can be oxidized to form a hydrogel; and the hydrogel can be reduced to form a solution of the copolymer. The solution can be dehydrated to produce the dry copolymer for storage. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to methods of making and using the reversible hydrogel systems.
US08192481B2 Implantable medical devices with anti-microbial and biodegradable matrices
A composite vascular graft is provided, which incorporates bioactive agents that can be controllably delivered to the implantation site to deliver therapeutic materials and/or to reduce infection of the implant. The vascular graft of the present invention includes a luminal layer of ePTFE; and a biodegradable polymer layer including a bioactive agent, such as an antimicrobial agent. The biodegradable polymer layer is posited on the external surface of the luminal ePTFE layer. The graft also includes a fabric layer, which is posited on the external surface of the biodegradable layer. The graft is particularly useful as an arterial-venous graft for hemodialysis procedures.
US08192478B2 System for improving cardiac function
A system for improving cardiac function is provided. A foldable and expandable frame having at least one anchoring formation is attached to an elongate manipulator and placed in a catheter tube while folded. The tube is inserted into a left ventricle of a heart where the frame is ejected from the tube and expands in the left ventricle. Movements of the elongate manipulator cause the anchor to penetrate the heart muscle and the elongate manipulator to release the frame. The installed frame minimizes the effects of an akinetic portion of the heart forming an aneurysmic bulge.
US08192475B2 Warming device constructions with a poncho-type patient gown
A warming device includes a poncho-type patient gown having a major body portion with inside and outside surfaces, a central panel in the major body portion, opposing sleeve portions in the central panel, and a head opening in the central panel, between the sleeve portions. An inflatable convective warming apparatus is supported on a surface of the patient gown, extending from a lower edge of the patient gown at least to the head opening.
US08192471B2 Rod attachment for head to head cross connector
Exemplary spinal fixation devices, systems, and method are provided for stabilizing vertebrae in a patient's spine. In one exemplary embodiment, methods and devices are provided for coupling one or more bone anchors, such as hooks, screws, etc., and/or one or more spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, cables, plates, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, a cross connector is provided for connecting and stabilizing two bone anchors, a bone anchor and a spinal fixation element, or a bone anchor and bone.
US08192465B2 Interspinous process spacers
Interspinous implants including a spacer configured to fit between first and second adjacent spinous processes of a human spine, to maintain a minimum separation between the spinous processes. An implant also includes a fixation portion coupled to the spacer, in which the fixation portion engages at least one spinous process to hold the spacer in a stable position relative to the spinous process. An implant may be monolithic, non-fillable, and may be inserted between the spinous process from a lateral approach. The fixation portion may be configured as a bracket which can substantially encircle the spinous process, or as flanges which engage lateral sides of the spinous process(es). The spacer may be resilient, and may be expandable along the anterior/posterior direction between the spinous processes. An implant may provide resilient resistance during extension, and/or a uniform extension stop between the spinous processes.
US08192460B2 Annular support structures
Reinforcing lumen rings are configured and adapted for use in conjunction with a circular endoscopic stapling instrument having a staple cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly. The reinforcing lumen rings maintain anastomotic lumen, e.g. as formed by the circular endoscopic stapling apparatus, in an open condition. The reinforcing lumen rings can include an annular ring having an outer terminal edge and an inner terminal edge, the outer terminal edge having a diameter which is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the staple cartridge assembly and the inner terminal edge having a diameter which is substantially equal to an inner diameter of the staple cartridge assembly.
US08192459B2 Blood vessel closure clip and delivery device
A clip for closing a puncture hole in a blood vessel comprises a ring having a resiliently expandable circumference and a plurality of barbed prongs extending at least approximately in the same direction from one edge of the ring. A device for deploying such a clip is also described.
US08192450B2 Methods and systems for medializing a turbinate
Methods and systems for medializing a turbinate. Exemplary embodiments comprise methods and systems for repositioning a turbinate proximal to a septum. Certain embodiments comprise an implant and a flexible member coupled to the implant. Embodiments may also comprise an insertion device to install the implant in a desired location.
US08192447B2 Medical device and using method thereof
Disclosed herein is a medical device including: a positioning catheter to be inserted into a blood vessel in the vicinity of an affected region; a treatment catheter to be inserted to reach the affected region; and attracting means provided at respective predetermined positions of both the catheters to apply a magnetic force in a direction of attracting each other; wherein the magnetic force of the attracting means restricts floating of the treatment catheter.
US08192445B2 Trajectory guide with instrument immobilizer
A trajectory guide assembly that guides an instrument relative to a patient includes a mounting seat configured to be supported by the patient. The assembly also includes a trajectory member moveably supported by the mounting seat. The trajectory member defines a trajectory passage. Also, the assembly includes a cap member moveably supported by the trajectory member. The cap member defines a cap opening, and the cap member is selectively moveable to a first position relative to the trajectory member to retain the instrument in both the cap opening and the trajectory passage. Additionally, the cap member is selectively moveable to a second position relative to the trajectory member to release the instrument.
US08192443B2 Pedicle access device
A pedicle access device that has particular application for positioning a pedicle screw during a minimally invasive spinal fusion surgical procedure. The pedicle access device includes a positioning needle having a hollow tube and a specially designed tip that conforms with a facet complex of a vertebra proximate a pedicle. A targeting needle having a pointed end is inserted through the hollow tube of the positioning needle, and is secured thereto so the tip of the targeting needle extends out of the end of the positioning needle. The tip of the targeting needle allows the positioning needle to be accurately positioned on the pedicle, and the specially configured tip of the positioning needle allows it to be secured thereto without slipping.
US08192437B2 Configured and sized cannula
A dilator retractor and the dilators that are used for minimally invasive spinal surgery or other surgery are configured to accommodate the anatomical structure of the patient as by configuring the cross sectional area in an elliptical shape, or by forming a funnel configuration with the wider end at the proximate end. In some embodiments the distal end is contoured to also accommodate the anatomical structure of the patient so that a cylindrically shaped, funnel shaped, ovoid shaped dilator retractor can be sloped or tunneled to accommodate the bone structure of the patient or provide access for implants. The dilator retractor is made with different lengths to accommodate the depth of the cavity formed by the dilators.
US08192432B2 Integrated metalized ceramic heating element for use in a tissue cutting and sealing device
A tissue cutting and sealing device, having a pair of opposing elements dimensioned to grasp tissue therebetween; and a heating assembly on at least one of the opposing elements, wherein the heating assembly includes: a ceramic body; and a metalized portion extending along a top surface of the ceramic body. The top surface of the ceramic body preferably has a width greater than the metalized portion.
US08192431B2 Endoscopic treatment instrument
An engaging mechanism, which restricts rotation of a cutter section about an axis of a sheath, is provided. In accordance with an advancing/retreating operation of an operation wire by an operation slider, switching is made between a rotation restriction position where rotational restriction of the cutter section is effected by the engaging mechanism and a restriction release position where the cutter section is released from the rotation restriction position and is made rotatable about the axis of the sheath relative to the sheath.
US08192419B2 Catheter assembly including internal bolster
A catheter assembly including an internal bolster. According to one embodiment, the catheter assembly includes a medical catheter preferably made of extruded silicone rubber. The catheter is shaped to include a cylindrical wall defining a primary longitudinal bore. A plurality of secondary longitudinal bores is provided in the cylindrical wall, the secondary bores being evenly spaced around the primary bore. The assembly also includes a plurality of identical resilient members collectively forming an anchor at a first end of the catheter. Each resilient member comprises a resilient wire and a protective jacket. Each wire is made of a shape-memory material and is reversibly transformable between a spiral shape, when at rest, and a straightened shape, when forcibly unfurled. One end of each wire is disposed within a secondary bore of the catheter, with the remainder of each wire extending out from the catheter. Each jacket is preferably made of silicone rubber and encapsulates all of the length of its wire, except for the small portion of the wire inserted into the bore.
US08192413B2 External urinary catheter
The external urinary catheter comprises a sheath portion (1) and a tip portion (3). A layer of adhesive (7) is provided on the inner side of the sheath portion (1) and extends between a first limit (7a) and a second limit (7b). At least one indication (8) indicating at least the first limit (7a) of the layer of adhesive (7) is provided. The indication may be a visual indication, e.g. in the form of a colored line (8).
US08192412B2 Portable fluid storage device
According to one aspect of the disclosure, a portable fluid storage device comprises a fluid impervious container having an interior space for the collection of human waste and a hollow tailpiece removably extending from the fluid impervious container and providing sealed fluid communication between an inlet end of the hollow tailpiece and the interior space. A cap is removably disposed at the inlet end of the hollow tailpiece and has a lumen disposed therethrough to provide a point of entry for the human waste into the portable fluid storage device. A flexible conduit is movably disposed within and removable from the hollow tailpiece and has an inlet end removably connected to an outlet end of the cap and an outlet end in fluid communication with the interior space of the fluid impervious container.
US08192409B2 Open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment devices and systems
An open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment device and system for treating a cavity in a patient's body, such as an abdominal cavity, is presented. In one instance, an open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment device includes a plurality of encapsulated leg members, each having an interior portion with a leg manifold member and formed with fenestrations operable to allow fluid flow into the interior portion, and a central connection member fluidly coupled to the plurality of encapsulated leg members. The central connection member has a connection manifold member. The open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment devices, systems, and methods allow for, among other things, removal of fluids.
US08192398B2 Medical device and medical instrument alignment
Systems and methods for orienting a medical instrument relative to at least a portion of a medical device include a first tilt detector associated with the medical instrument and a second tilt detector associated with the medical device. The first tilt detector may be within an orientation device that is coupled to or separate from the medical instrument. The tilt detectors generate signals that may be used to determine the relative orientation between at least a portion of the medical device and medical instrument. For example, in some embodiments, the signals may be used to determine whether the orientations of the portion of the medical device and the medical instrument substantially match.
US08192397B2 Medical fluid injection and inflation system
A combined fluid injection and inflation system is disclosed and includes a fluid delivery system including at least one pressurizing device, a fluid path, and a control unit. The fluid path is adapted to connect the pressurizing device to a patient via a catheter including a balloon and inserted in the patient. The control unit is operable to control the fluid delivery system. In operation, the control unit selectively actuates the fluid delivery system to operate in a fluid injection mode or in a balloon inflation mode. In the fluid injection mode the pressurizing device delivers fluid to the fluid path for a fluid injection procedure. In the balloon inflation mode, the pressurizing device delivers fluid to the fluid path for inflating the balloon associated with the catheter. An operator control may be connected to the control unit for controlling the fluid delivery system and may be a handheld device.
US08192394B2 Method and system for manual and autonomous control of an infusion pump
A method and system for both autonomous and manual control of an infusion pump for delivering medication to a patient is provided.
US08192384B2 System for enriching a bodily fluid with a gas having a dual-function power switch mechanism
This invention discloses a modular system having a base module, a mid-section control module, and a display module for preparing and administering a gas-enriched bodily fluid. An apparatus adapted for connecting with a gas tank is included in the system for gas tank hook-up. Gas-enrichment is achieved by a gas-enriching device which can be in the form of a disposable cartridge. During operation, the gas-enrichment device is placed in an enclosure within the control module. An electronic controller manages the various aspects of the system such as the production of gas-enriched fluid, flow rates, bubble detection, and automatic operation and shut down. The system has a power supply for providing electrical power to the system, and a switching mechanism coupled to the power supply and gas tank for synchronized switching of the power supply and the gas tank between an ON state and an OFF state.
US08192370B2 Biopsy apparatus
A biopsy apparatus having a disposable cutting element and a reusable handpiece is disclosed. The disposable cutting element includes an inner cannula that defines an inner lumen and terminates in a cutting edge. The inner cannula is slidably disposed within an outer cannula that defines an outer lumen that has a tissue-receiving opening. The inner cannula is driven by a rotary motor and a reciprocating motor. Both motors are constructed of a MRI compatible material.
US08192358B2 Device and method for use in surgery
The present invention is concerned with a device and method for use in surgery, in particular hand assisted laparascopic surgery, the device comprising a flexible sleeve about one end of which is located a plurality of inflatable balloons, such that the sleeve may be located about a surgeon's forearm, with the balloons thus circumscribing the surgeon's wrist, the balloons being inflated once the surgeon's hand and wrist have been inserted into a surgical cavity, in order to distend the surgical cavity, thereby creating a space within which the surgical procedure may be performed.
US08192355B2 Endoluminal colostomy system and procedure
A trocar for positioning within a body lumen such as an intestine is disclosed. The trocar has a window adjacent its distal end in communication with the internal lumen of the trocar. The trocar is sufficient rigid to stabilize the body lumen upon positioning therein to maintain patency of the body lumen. A slot in communication with the window extends to the distal end of the trocar.A surgical procedure for reversing a colostomy procedure is also disclosed. The above described trocar is inserted into a first intestinal section through an opening in the abdominal wall. A guide wire is introduced through the rectal opening and advanced through the rectal stump and out the opening in the abdominal wall. An anvil is connected to the guide wire and the guide wire withdrawn through the rectal opening to advance the anvil within the first intestinal section. An anastomosis instrument is introduced through the rectal opening and connected to the anastomosis instrument. The anastomosis instrument is fired to connect the two intestinal sections to reestablish continuity between them.
US08192347B2 Artificial insemination
An artificial insemination device may include a condom having a sheath and a reinforced cup that caps one end of the sheath, thereby having an inner concave surface and an outer convex surface; and a delivery handle comprising an elongate extension sized, shaped, shaped to contact the outer convex surface of the condom cup.
US08192345B2 Cartridge for use with brachytherapy applicator
In an embodiment, a brachytherapy device includes a cartridge adapted for use with a brachytherapy applicator. A plurality of therapeutic members are stacked parallel to one another within the cartridge. Each therapeutic member includes a radioactive seed that is at least partially encapsulated by a polymeric material. Additionally, each therapeutic member can include at least one protrusion on an outer surface of the encapsulating polymeric material to reduce a tendency for the therapeutic member to migrate and rotate within a patient's body after the therapeutic member is implanted.
US08192341B2 Pallet and three-dimensional support structure
A three-dimensional support structure is provided and includes a single sheet of material that is folded into a repeating pattern of cells. Each of the cells is formed by first and second spaced-apart endwalls and first and second sloped sidewalls spanning between the endwalls. Each endwall comprises two plies of material while each sidewall comprises a single ply of material. The first and second sidewalls are adjoined at a folded edge. The cells are aligned such that the first endwall of one cell from the repeating pattern abuts the second endwall of an adjacent cell of the repeating pattern to form a four-ply wall of the material. A first liner may be attached to a first side of the folded material and a second liner may be attached to a second side of the folded material.
US08192338B2 Foldable transportable multiple function pilates exercise apparatus and method
A multi-function Pilates exercise apparatus featuring a foldable frame (200-203), a counterbalance mechanism (271), a wheeled base (90), a rotatable pulley riser with a flexible pulley mount (112), gear changing apparatus (FIG. 9) and adjustable footbar (471). The frame is designed to fold into an upright position and to be rolled to a desired location. The pulley assemblies may be rotated and positioned below the carriage rails. The gear changing apparatus permits the user to adjust the carriage position with a single handed operation. The exercise system includes a reformer, a pole apparatus, and mat mode including a long/short box.
US08192335B2 Strength and conditioning device and method of conditioning
A strength and conditioning device and method of conditioning. A conditioning device for a sport using a hand held implement having a grip portion comprises a handle shaped like the grip portion, the handle having a first end and a second end. A weight is positioned on the second end such that a center of mass for the conditioning device is less than about 13 inches from the first end of the handle. A bias assembly is removably attached to the weight such that the bias assembly resists movement of the weight during at least some motion of the handle.
US08192332B2 Energy absorbing suspension equipment (EASE) for rowing machines
A rowing machine or rowing machine attachment with an energy absorbing component configured to add responsive and compliant roll, pitch, and yaw motions to the rowing machine. The energy absorbing component is also configured to change shape so as to absorb energy in response to a compressive force by the user. Said energy absorption component returns substantially to its first shape in response to the removal of the compressive force. The energy-absorbing apparatus is configured to reduce a reaction force exerted on the user of the rowing machine.
US08192331B2 Device for adjusting the prestress of an elastic means around a predetermined tension or position
A device for adjusting the prestress of an elastic means around a predetermined tension or position can especially be used to adjust the height of and the relief force acting on a weight. A mechanic adjustment unit is connected in parallel to the elastic means to preadjust the value of the predetermined tension comprising a movable portion engaging the connection portion between elastic means and adjustment unit and a force exerting element being attached at said movable portion. The mechanic adjustment unit is in an unstable equilibrium position at said predetermined tension or position, the movement of the movable portion being such that the force exerting element adds an adjustment or compensation force upon deviation of the predetermined tension or position of the elastic means.
US08192330B2 Yoga mat with intuitive tactile feedback for visually impaired
The invention includes an exercise mat that provides intuitive tactile feedback allowing a user to determine body placement using the sense of touch. The invention enables visually impaired users to determine location and/or direction on the mat. The invention includes devices to assist a user in correct foot and hand placements during a yoga posture sequence, an exercise program, a dance routine, and so forth. Tactile markers for hand and foot placement enable discerning a reference marker as either intended for hand or foot, right side or left side, and forward or backward. The invention makes yoga more accessible to the visually impaired and enables a user to participate in mainstream yoga communities. The invention can be used for the practice of yoga in a class setting in schools for the blind, in public or private studios, or at home. The mat can be used in a yoga class to follow instructions with more ease and independence. The pliable nature of the mat allows it to be easily portable to schools, studios, and storage at home.
US08192328B2 Methods and systems for assisted direct start control
Methods and systems are provided for reducing driveline unwinding during successive engine shutdown and restart operations. In one example, during an engine shutdown, torsion is maintained in a transmission gear-train until an engine restart is requested by engaging one or more transmission clutches while applying wheel brakes.
US08192326B2 Control device for vehicular power transmitting apparatus
Rotation-stop determining portion queries as to whether the first rotary element is lowered in a rotation speed to be stopped during an engine drive mode. If the answer is YES and differential-portion rotation speed determining portion makes a positive determination, then engaging-element control-executing portion executes engaging element control. This allows a third rotary element of the differential portion, connected to drive wheels via an engaging element of an automatic shifting portion, to approach a state available to freewheel. This prevents a second rotary element and a first electric motor from reaching high-speed rotations caused by a decrease in rotation speed of the first rotary element in a stop direction and a differential action of the differential portion. This enables the prevention of a durability decrease of a power distributing mechanism and the first electric motor.
US08192320B2 Multi-speed transaxle
A front wheel drive transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake arranged within a transmission housing.
US08192319B2 Gear unit and use of the same
The gear unit for use with a manually adjustable electric component has a manually operable adjusting shaft and a reduction gear including a rotatable ball cage and a plurality of balls as well as a race ring element having a spring and retaining portion that encircles the race ring externally. Such a gear unit allows greatly reduced dimensions and furthermore offers a considerable dielectric strength.
US08192317B2 Reinforced belt for powerturn applications
A reinforced conveyor belt has a plurality of fabric plies. One of the plies is an interwoven ply comprised of two layers of weft cords and a plurality of warp cords interweaving through the two layers of weft cords. Each warp cord has the following repeating weave pattern of passing over at least two but not more than five weft cords in the first weft layers, passing between the two weft layers for a distance of at least two weft cords, and passing under at least two but nor more than five weft cords in the second weft layer.
US08192314B2 Plate for a rocker joint chain
A plate for a rocker joint chain, wherein the plate includes two longitudinal legs and two vertical legs that together surround a plate opening. The plate includes an indentation positioned on an outer edge of at least one of the longitudinal legs, and it includes at least one tab positioned on the outside contour of the plate. The plate configuration enables an easier determination to be made to ascertain a specified orientation of such plates within an assembled plate-link chain formed from a plurality of plates.
US08192312B2 Isolator with damping
An isolator comprising a hub, a pulley frictionally engaged with the hub through a bushing for instantaneous rotational movement, the bushing and hub having a coefficient of friction, a resilient member engaged between the pulley and the hub for transmitting a torque, and a locking member for retaining the pulley on the hub.
US08192303B2 Golf club head
A golf club head of this invention includes a head body, a weight member attached to the head body, and a fixing unit to fix the weight member at any one of a plurality of attachment positions of the head body. The plurality of attachment positions are located on a straight line included in a plane. The plane includes the center-of-gravity position of the head body without the weight member attached thereto and is perpendicular to the toe-and-heel direction of the head body.
US08192291B2 Waterslide bowl with troughs
A waterslide bowl has a fixed rider path from entrance to exit. The bowl comprises a trough which is made of a plurality of sets of trough sections, attached together, in which the trough sections of a given set are the same and nest together side-by-side, permitting the rider surface of the bowl to be made from trough sections having a small number of different shapes. This reduces the number of molds that would otherwise be required to make the trough sections. The waterslide bowl may also have two or more separate troughs, nested together, whereby the bowl may be ridden in by multiple riders at the same time, each in his or her own trough.
US08192290B2 Shrink-fit tool unit as well as tool holder and rotary tool to be used for the shrink-fit tool unit
A shrink-fit tool unit increases the transmission force of rotary power and also improves workability when inserting the rotary tool into the tool holder. A tool holder and a rotary tool to be used for the shrink-fit tool unit are also disclosed. Since a first engaging part and a second engaging part are configured to engage with each other simply by inserting a cylindrical terminal area of a rotary tool, typically, a thread forming tap, into a chuck of the tool holder, even when the machining load receiving from a work piece act both in forward and reverse directions relative to the circumferential direction, it is possible to increase the transmission of rotary power.
US08192288B2 Remote management of a gaming machine through retrieval of an inventory of assets
Systems, apparatus and methods for remote management of a gaming machine are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a host platform having a host processor controlled by a host operating system. The host platform has a host storage and a host power state, wherein the host processor is to execute instructions that includes a wagering game. The apparatus also includes a subsystem that is operable independent of the host operating system and the host power state. The subsystem includes a processor that is separate from the host processor. The subsystem also includes a nonvolatile data store that is separate from the storage of the host platform.
US08192276B2 Method and apparatus for gaming with alternate value payouts
Systems and methods are provided for permitting a player to play a game at a gaming device. The gaming device provides a payout for the game. The payout is redeemable for one of a plurality of values, and at least two of the plurality of values are different from each other. The values typically have different corresponding forms of payout, such as cash or merchandise credits.
US08192273B2 Game server, game control method, and game machine
A plurality of game machines installed in a single hall are collectively controlled. Based on information of coin or credit consumption in a certain game machine on which a player is performing a game, this player's cumulative consumption of coin or credit is judged. As the result of this judgment, when this cumulative consumption reaches a predetermined upper limit, a return based on a predetermined return rate is executed without fail to the certain game machine on which this player is performing the game. That is, a predetermined return is guaranteed to a player who has consumed a predetermined amount, so that the player continues the game in expectation of the return. It is therefore avoidable that a player waiting for a prize for a long time keeps away from the hall.
US08192272B2 Wagering game with enhanced cascading reel symbol feature
A gaming system and method for conducting a wagering game during which a designated cascade-triggering outcome can cause some symbols to be removed from the display and can move adjacent symbols to cascade and replace the removed symbols in a cascade outcome. A cascade outcome that includes a winning outcome can pay the player a higher value than the same winning outcome that is not included in a cascade outcome.
US08192270B2 Bingo game, method, and elimination tournament
A Bingo game, method, and elimination tournament is provided. In one embodiment, the present invention may take the form of a Bingo elimination tournament played by players wagering on respective networked gaming machines in a casino environment. The Bingo elimination tournament may include a plurality of successive Bingo games (rounds) carried out according to standard Bingo methodology, including randomly-drawn numbers being called out, and players' respective Bingo cards being updated (e.g. marked) accordingly, perhaps along with one or more computer-player cards. After each tournament round, among the cards that have not achieved a Bingo during that round, the card or cards having the fewest number of matched numbers are preferably eliminated. Successive rounds are played, often resulting in a single winner of the tournament. Various wagering options are provided for added excitement and enjoyment.
US08192269B2 System and method for operating on-line governmental lottery games
A method for facilitating governmental lottery play over an electronic network includes receiving a request for mobile player terminal location information from an agent server, acquiring location information based upon distances between the mobile player terminal and a plurality of transmitters with known locations, transmitting the acquired location information to the agent server, determining whether the mobile player terminal is located within a lottery jurisdiction based on the transmitted location information, and processing the purchase of a lottery ticket when the location of the mobile player terminal is determined to be located within the lottery jurisdiction.
US08192265B2 Game system
The game system comprises a code reading means for reading a code recorded in a card, a computer program executing means for executing a game in which characters compute, and a display screen for displaying an image generated by the computer program. The game system further comprises a character generating means which, corresponding to a first code read by the reading means, generates a character indicated on the first card with the first code recorded in, a move generating means which, corresponding to a second code, sets a move indicated on the second card with the second cord recorded in, and a display means for displays on the display screen an image in which the character generated by the character generating means executes the move set by the move setting means to fight. When a first special code recorded in a first special card without a character indicated on is read by the code reading means, the character generating means generates a preset character, and the move setting means sets a move which is different from a move indicated on the second cord with the second code recorded in. The game system can amusingly make full use of the characteristics of the game cards.
US08192255B2 Tool holder with tapered slot for a grinding machine
A tool holder for a grinding machine, where the tool holder is mounted to a grinding platform of the grinding machine. The tool holder includes a plate member having a tapered slot where opposing stop elements are provided within the slot at a central location. The tool includes a pair of circular elements that are positioned on either side of the stop elements in the slot and are forced into the tapered shape of the slot so that the tool is held to the tool holder.
US08192254B2 Sander with a balance means
A sander according to the present invention comprising a housing, a motor and a transmission mounted within the housing, a sanding plate mounted below the housing, a battery pack mounted at the rear end of the housing and a balancer mounted on either the housing or the sanding plate. The balancer includes a balance element disposed in the front part of the sander. The balance element is balanced with the battery pack, which solves the balance problem of the DC sanders known in the prior art while still providing a battery pack that can satisfy the power requirements of the sander.
US08192251B2 Pressure control system of wafer polishing apparatus
A pressure control system of a wafer polishing apparatus includes a main input air pressure regulator, an air branch conduit, a plurality of first pipes, a plurality of auxiliary air pressure regulators, a plurality of second pipes, and a plurality of air pressure controlling devices. The air branch conduit is connected with the main input air pressure regulator. The first pipes are connected between the air branch conduit and the auxiliary air pressure regulators. The second pipes are connected between the auxiliary air pressure regulators and the air pressure controlling devices. Accordingly, the air pressure controlling devices can control the pressure outputted from a polishing head of the wafer polishing apparatus to a surface of a wafer.
US08192250B2 Abrasive article
An abrasive article is disclosed that is suitable for cleaning, sanding, scraping, or other such process of removing an outer layer or adherent matter. The abrasive article includes a plurality of abrasive particles at least partially embedded in a frozen liquid.
US08192249B2 Systems and methods for polishing a magnetic disk
A polishing system and associated methods are described for polishing a magnetic disk used in a disk drive system. The polishing system includes a polishing film that is used to polish the magnetic disk. The polishing system also includes an actuator operable to move the polishing film across a surface of the magnetic disk to polish the magnetic disk. The polishing system also includes a pad having at least one protrusion extending from a surface of the pad. The protrusion is configured to contact the polishing film and press the polishing film against the magnetic disk. The protrusion is operable to compress to about the surface of the pad when in contact with the polishing film. Once polishing is complete, the pad retracts from the polishing film and the protrusion extends from the pad, reducing the adhesion force between the pad and the polishing film.
US08192247B2 Pumping/nursing bra
An apparatus allowing a woman to pump milk from her breasts without the necessity of the woman's hands holding the breast pumps utilizes at least one band of material encircling the woman's chest, the band of material provided with two openings corresponding to the woman's breasts. A center panel would be provided to adjust the fit of the band. Additionally, in another embodiment, a back panel would be used in conjunction with the center panel to connect left and right panels together, the left and right panels including openings for a woman's breast. In all of the embodiments, semicircular pieces would cover each of the openings.
US08192244B2 Water sports binding assembly
A binding for water sports comprises a baseplate, which may optionally include a toe cup, and a heel cup. A heel loop is pivotably attached to the heel cup, and is pivotable between an upper position and a lower position to adjust the amount of support provided to the user's ankle. An adjustment control, for example a lever and cam mechanism pivotably attaches to the heel cup and is positioned such that the user can selectively move the cam portion between a release position wherein the heel loop is not supported in the upper position, and a support position wherein the heel loop is supported in the upper position. A flexible upper portion is attached to the base plate.
US08192239B2 Marine vessel propulsion system and marine vessel
A marine vessel propulsion system includes a plurality of propulsion devices, each including a motor and a propeller rotated by the motor. The system further includes a common electric power supply switch arranged to be operated by an operator to turn on and off electric power supplies of the plurality of propulsion devices all at once, an electric power supply control unit arranged to put the electric power supplies of the respective propulsion devices in an on state all at once when the common electric power supply switch is turned on and to put the electric power supplies of the respective propulsion devices in an off state all at once when the common electric power supply switch is turned off, an abnormal state detection unit arranged to detect an abnormal state of each propulsion device, and a power transmission cutoff unit, which is arranged to, when an abnormal state of any of the propulsion devices is detected by the abnormal state detection unit, cut off transmission of power between the motor and the propeller of the propulsion device for which the abnormal state is detected.
US08192238B2 Service switching device with a connection terminal arrangement
The disclosure relates to a service switching device with an insulating housing and a connection terminal arrangement for the terminal connection of a connecting conductor with an annular terminal lug on a connecting plate mounted in the device interior, with a clamping screw, which has a screw head and a screw shaft, the screw shaft passing through the annular terminal lug and being in threaded engagement with a thread element during the terminal connection of the connecting conductor. A terminal accommodating area has an insertion opening for the connecting conductor and an access opening for the screw head for actuation thereof. The connecting plate has a holding section for locking the thread element.
US08192235B2 Cable connector for printed circuit boards
A cable connector (1) for printed circuit boards includes a housing (2, 3) and at least two contact elements (4). Each contact element includes a contact (11) for connecting electrical wires and a fork contact (6, 7) for making contact with a printed circuit board. A surge arrester (17) is arranged within the housing (2, 3) and is arranged electrically between the contact elements (4).
US08192225B2 Press-contact connection apparatus and illumination apparatus
There is provided a press-contact connection apparatus, including: a base part; press-contact terminals which are fixed to the base part; and an electric wire holder which holds a plurality of electric wires to be press-contacted with the press-contact terminals. The base part includes a support which supports the electric wire holder rotatably and serves as a fulcrum of a rotation of the electric wire, and a first engagement portion. The electric wire holder includes a rotational shaft which is provided in one end portion of the electric wire holder and supported by the support of the base part, and a second engagement portion to be engaged with the first engagement portion. The electric wire holder is pulled between the support and the first engagement portion when the electric wire holder is rotated about the rotational shaft and the plurality of electric wires are being press-contacted to the respective press-contact terminals.
US08192209B1 Surface mount clip for routing and grounding cables
Disclosed is a clip is for routing and grounding a coaxial cable on a printed circuit board. The clip may be mechanically and electrically engaged to the printed circuit board and may be comprised of a resilient and conductive material. The clip engages and retains the coaxial cable and establishes an electrical connection between the coaxial cable and the printed circuit board. A sheath may be placed around a portion of the coaxial cable to engage the clip.
US08192203B2 Device for checking anesthesia and ventilation units
Apparatus for processes of checking anesthesia and ventilation devices, in the form of a test lung, comprising a lung sac (5), elastically deformable lobes (6, 7), an inlet nozzle (1) and adjustment means (8, 9, 10) for adjusting the simulation parameters. The test lung is in the form of a compact unit and permits the simulation of different lung types by adjustment of the lung parameters.
US08192201B2 Mirror for showing a change of skin appearance
A tinted mirror which has been treated to reflect a modified image of skin is used to allow a subject to consider a potential change of the appearance of his/her skin, which would follow from the application of a cosmetic product such as self-tanning product. The mirror may be tinted with a brown hue so as to reflect an image that corresponds to the change of coloration of skin after the application of a self-tanning product. The invention may be used in beauty parlor or supermarket aisle to help a subject visualize the potential effect of a self-tanning product on his/her skin.
US08192186B2 Rotor having a cooling channel and compressor element provided with such rotor
Rotor having a shaft having an axial direction, where an inner and central cooling channel with an inlet and an outlet for a cooling agent is provided in this shaft, extending in the above-mentioned axial direction. Additionally, the above-mentioned cooling channel is at least partly provided with inwardly directed fins.
US08192182B2 Manual evacuation system
A gastight interface for an evacuation device includes a flexible suction cup adapted to form a gastight seal with a surface surrounding a valve disposed on a container and extending from an evacuation end of an evacuation chamber. The flexible suction cup has an aperture disposed therethrough for fluid communication with the evacuation chamber. A plurality of support members extends from the evacuation end of the evacuation chamber to restrict movement of the flexible suction cup between the surface and the evacuation end of the evacuation chamber, to allow fluid communication between an interior of the container and the evacuation chamber through the valve when the valve is in an open position, while the piston is being reciprocated between the closed end and the evacuation end. Each support member has a distal surface disposed outside of an outer perimeter of the flexible suction cup.
US08192176B2 Hydraulic fluid supply system having active regulator
A hydraulic fluid supply system includes an active pressure regulator or feed limit valve with a flow cut-off which may be used with dual clutch transmission hydraulic control systems. The supply system includes a pump, a filter, pressure relief and filter bypass valves, an accumulator, a system pressure sensor and the active feed limit valve. The active feed limit and flow cut-off valve includes an on-off solenoid valve and a spool or logic valve having an inlet port, an outlet port, a control port, a feedback port and an exhaust port. The inlet port is supplied with pressurized hydraulic fluid and the control port is supplied with hydraulic fluid from the solenoid control valve when it is energized. A valve spool having a pair of spaced-apart lands is biased toward the control port. One side of a check valve is in fluid communication with the feedback port. The outlet port provides controlled pressure and flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic control system and is in fluid communication with the other side of the check valve.
US08192174B2 Refrigerant compressor having a connecting rod with a force application point at crank pin which is displaced in a direction of the bearing in relation to the axial center of the crank pin
The invention concerns a refrigerant compressor (1), in particular a semi-hermetic refrigerant compressor, with a compressor block (5) comprising several cylinders arranged in a star shape, a motor, whose rotor is unrotatably connected to a crankshaft (11) that comprises a crank pin (22) and is supported in a bearing (13) in the compressor block (5), and a piston in each cylinder, each piston being connected via a connecting rod (23) to the crank pin (22), the connecting rod (23) comprising a bearing pad (24) that rests on the crank pin (22), the bearing pads (24) of all connecting rods (23) being held on the crank pin (22) by means of a ring arrangement (25). It is endeavored to keep the load on the crankshaft small. For this purpose, each connecting rod (23) has a power application point (49) at the crank pin (22), which is displaced in the direction of the bearing (13) in relation to the axial center of the crank pin (22).
US08192169B2 Highly reliable, low cost wind turbine rotor blade
A wind turbine rotor blade and a wind turbine incorporating the rotor blade include a first and second composite skin. A first and a second spar pultrusion having a base and a plurality of integral ribs generally normal to the base are attached to the inside surface of the first and second composite skins and extend the span of the rotor blade. At least one shear web connects a rib of the first spar pultrusion to a corresponding rib of the second spar pultrusion. The width of the spar pultrusions decreases in a step-wise fashion along the span of the rotor blade from the root to the tip. The leading or trailing edge of the rotor blade may be selectably opened for inspection and repair.
US08192167B2 Blade fastening means of a turbine
A turbine-blade locking device having a wedge movable in an axial direction is disclosed. The wedge is movable in the axial direction by a tensioning device, as a result of which a force is produced in the axial direction. The force in the axial direction causes the turbine blade to be pressed against the blade holder.
US08192157B2 Fan frame structure
A fan frame structure includes a plastic casing and a metal fixing frame. The plastic casing and the metal fixing frame are provided for an axial flow fan or a blower fan. The plastic casing includes a bottom having a plurality of first fixing portions. The metal fixing frame includes a base with a shaft tube seat in a center thereof. The base includes a plurality of second portions each engaged with one of the first fixing portions. Since the plastic casing is made of inexpensive plastic material, the manufacturing costs are cut. The metal fixing frame provides sufficient structural strength and desired heat dissipating effect.
US08192151B2 Turbine engine having cooling gland
In one embodiment, a turbine may include a bearing housing for a rotor with a passage along an axis of rotation of the rotor shaft. A cooling gland configured to transfer cooling fluid to the passage may be mounted to the bearing housing with a mounting structure configured to mount the cooling gland substantially in-line with the passage of the rotor.
US08192144B2 Compressor and heat pump system
A centrifugal turbocompressor including an open-type impeller and a casing compresses a gaseous body that condenses into a liquid. The compressor suppresses erosion due to accumulation of a liquid on a casing surface in the compressor. Such accumulation is possible during the starting time of the compressor, if the gaseous body that has come into contact with the casing condenses on the surface of the casing and changes into liquid droplets, centrifugal force may cause the droplets to accumulate on the surface of the casing positioned outside an impeller, and thus to grow into coarser and larger droplets or a liquid film. If the blade tips of the impeller rotating at high speed scrape the droplets or the film upward, erosion of the blade tips is liable to result.
US08192140B2 Apparatus for use of flow energy
The apparatus for use of flow energy has elongated circumferential elements (18) with incident-flow surfaces (34, 35) facing the flow, which elements (8) are connected parallel to one another at intervals to form a rotating cage (1) or to form a strip, which is circumferential on a guide and in which they form crossbars, and the rotation axis or deflection axes is or are arranged transversely to the flow direction, with the elements (8) each having two incident-flow surfaces (34, 35). The two incident-flow surfaces (34, 35) may have the capability to swivel into the direction facing the wind by rotation of the elements (8) when the rotor (1) or strip is running. Outside the rotating cage (1), the apparatus may be provided with essentially radially aligned guide walls (22), and the rotor (1) and the walls (22) may be provided with a roof (24) in the form of a flat truncated cone.
US08192131B1 Architecture for high throughput semiconductor processing applications
A semiconductor wafer processing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a loading station, a load lock, a process module, an intermediate process module, and a transport module which further includes a load chamber, a transfer chamber, and a pass-through chamber between the load chamber and the transfer chamber. The intermediate process module may be coupled to the load chamber, or both the load chamber and the transfer chamber. In one embodiment, the load lock is a single-wafer load lock capable of accommodating only a single wafer at a time to allow for fast pump down and vent cycles. In one embodiment, the pass-through chamber is configured as a cooling station to improve throughput for processes that require the wafer to be cooled in-between depositions, for example.
US08192128B2 Alignment apparatus and method for a boom of a pipe handling system
A pipe handling apparatus has a frame, a boom pivotally connected to the frame so as to be movable between a first position and a second position, an arm extending outwardly of the boom when the boom is in the second position, a gripper affixed to the end of the arm opposite the boom, a first line having a first end affixed to the boom, a second line interconnected to an opposite end of the first line and connected to the frame, and an actuator interconnected to the first and second lines. The actuator changes an angular relationship of the first and second lines so as to selectively tension the lines. The second line includes a first cable offset from linear alignment with the first line and a second cable extending in angular relationship with the first cable.
US08192123B2 Drywall fastener
A self-drilling fastener for use in a friable material with or without an underlying member at the point of use comprises an elongated body, a threaded exterior, an enlarged head with torque transmitting surfaces, proximal, intermediate, and distal portions, and a drilling tip generally opposite enlarged head. Proximal portion has an axial length, a threaded exterior having root and crest diameters and a thread height, where the crest diameter is about twice the root diameter. Intermediate portion has an axial length, a threaded exterior having a root, a crest diameter substantially smaller than proximal portion crest diameter and a thread height substantially smaller than proximal portion thread height. Distal portion has an axial length, a threaded exterior with a root that tapers toward the drilling tip, a crest diameter substantially smaller than the proximal portion crest diameter, and a thread height substantially smaller than the proximal portion thread height portion.
US08192122B2 Anchor bolt
An anchor bolt for use in a hole in a base material is provided and includes a stud, a sleeve disposed about the stud and a retainer nut, disposed in operable communication with the stud and having a dimension measured from a central axis of the hole that is at least as large as a corresponding dimension of the hole.
US08192118B2 Stowable storage net
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a stowable storage net and a vehicle with a stowable storage net. The storage net comprises a storage area having a front, a back and two sides, the front and back being pivotally connected at one end. Elements are included for providing a predetermined amount of longitudinal elasticity to the storage area. The storage net comprises elements for removably attaching the storage area to a desired surface of the cargo area. The storage net further comprises a storage pouch forming the bottom of the storage net, the two sides of the storage net pivotally mounted proximally to the ends of the storage pouch and configured to fold into the storage pouch, allowing the associated net to fall easily and neatly into the pouch. The storage pouch can further comprise a zipper or other type of closure. Methods and vehicles are also disclosed.
US08192112B2 Universal rotary cutter head with back clamping system and constant cutting dimensions and constant weight regridable inserts
A rotary cutting tool has a cutting insert clamped from behind by a backing clamp against a frontal abutment defined in the body of the rotary cutter head. The clamp backs the cutting insert against the cutting pressure during operation and provides for the use of a same rotary cutter with different profiles of cutting inserts. Plugs of predetermined weight can be inserted in pre-formed holes in the cutting insert to permit recalibration of the insert after a sharpening operation.
US08192092B2 Modified pre-ferrulized communication cable assembly and installation method
Disclosed is a modified pre-ferrulized cable assembly that facilitates installation of an optical fiber communication cable through narrow cable guides having sharp bends. The pre-ferrulized cable assembly includes a communication cable having a free, front end, a semi-finished communication connector, and a suction plug. The invention further relates to efficient methods for installing the modified pre-ferrulized cable assembly through a cable guide.
US08192090B2 Card-based mounting assembly and maintenance system
A backplane and card assembly comprises: a backplane having optical and electrical connectors; a plurality of cards each comprising an optical receiver and electrical connectors, for fitting into the backplane to obtain operational optical and electrical connections via the backplane; and an automatic maintenance unit comprising a gripping arm configured to remove and replace cards from the backplane. Having both the optical and electrical connectors together on the backplane allows a relatively simple movement of the gripping arm to remove and replace the card.
US08192080B2 Microwire-controlled autoclave and method
Improved treatment apparatus (120, 152) is provided for the treatment (e.g., molding, heating and/or curing) of objects such as parts or part precursors (148, 170) including wireless detection of a temperature parameter related to the objects during treatment thereof. The objects include associated microwire-type sensors (150, 174) which have characteristic re-magnetization responses under the influence of applied, alternating magnetic fields. The apparatus (120, 152) have treatment chambers (122, 153) sized to hold the objects to be treated, with one or more antennas (132, 124, 166) proximal to such objects and operable to generate interrogating alternating magnetic fields and to detect the responses of the sensors (150, 174). The detected temperature parameter information is used by an apparatus controller (146) to maintain desired ambient conditions within the treatment chamber (122, 153).
US08192078B2 Device for recording the pressure and the temperature in an intake manifold of an internal combustion engine
A device for recording the pressure and the temperature in an intake manifold of an internal combustion engine, a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor being situated in a common housing, and an evaluation of a signal of the temperature sensor being provided outside the housing. An EMC protective circuit is provided in this context, which is integrated into the housing and/or is situated on the housing, and is electrically connected to the temperature sensor.
US08192071B2 Agitator apparatus with collapsible impeller
An agitator apparatus for a mixing vessel having a rotating member and one or more impellers coupled to the rotating member, at least one of the impellers being collapsible so that the collapsible impeller is movable from a collapsed orientation to a deployed orientation relative to the rotating member. A limiting member may be used to prevent the collapsible impeller from opening beyond its fully deployed orientation.
US08192068B2 Light-emitting module
A light-emitting module includes a printed circuit board (PCB), a fastening member, and a light-emitting package. The PCB has a power-supplying pad to provide electrical power. The fastening member is disposed on the PCB and has a package-receiving hole exposing the power-supplying pad. The light-emitting package is received by the package-receiving hole such that the light-emitting package is electrically connected to the power-supplying pad and detachably coupled with the fastening member. Therefore, the light-emitting package may be easily combined with the PCB, and the light-emitting package may be replaced when desired.
US08192066B2 Tiled lighting device
The present invention relates to a lighting device (10) comprising a tiled light guide (16) comprising a central tile (12b) and at least one end tile (12a, 12c), the end tile(s) (12a, 12c) being arranged at an edge (24, 26) of the light guide (16); at least one solid state light source (18) arranged for coupling light into the light guide (16) in a general direction towards or away from the end tile(s) (12a, 12c); and a plurality of out-coupling structures (20) arranged for coupling light out of the light guide (16); wherein the end tile(s) (12a, 12c) has inherent in-coupling and/or inherent out-coupling of light different from the central tile (12b).
US08192063B2 Rear deck warning light bar
An interior light bar adapted to be installed on the rear deck of a vehicle for projecting light out of the rear window. The light bar has a pair of projection units each having a housing and each slidably mounted on a rail which extends through the housings from an end thereof and along a rear, closed side. The units each contain light emitters which project the light out of the open side of the units. The units are assembled with a selected separation distance so that the ends through which the rail extends are essentially in contact or sufficiently spread apart to clear a brake light assembly on the rear deck or even further apart so as to provide a wide width of illumination out of the rear window from the light bar. The rail may be channel which provides a conduit for wiring from the light emitter units. Fasteners which connect the housings and the rail into an integrated assembly extend through the closed side of the housing. These fasteners may also connect to a slotted L bracket for providing height and lateral adjustability of the light bar toward and away from the window upon installation of the deck.
US08192062B2 Vehicular lamp
A vehicular headlamp is provided. The vehicular lamp includes a projection lens disposed on an optical axis of a lamp extending in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle; a light source disposed on a rear side of a rear focal point of the projection lens; a reflector that concentrates the light emitted from the light source on the projection lens; and a shade disposed such that an upper edge of the shade extends through the vicinity of the rear focal point to block a part of the light reflected from the reflector. In plan view, the light source is disposed near the central axis of the reflector, and the reflector is disposed such that the central axis of the reflector intersects the optical axis of the lamp in a vicinity of the projection lens while being inclined toward the own lane of the vehicle on the front side.
US08192059B2 Illuminant device and lamp clip
Indexes indicative of the locations of lamp clips are formed on a chassis where lamps are juxtaposed with different juxtaposition pitches. The lamp clips comprise: plate-like bases; holding portions, which are provided at one face of the bases, for holding the lamps; and markers corresponding to the indexes.
US08192058B2 LED recessed light with transparent board
An LED recessed light with transparent board includes a heat sink base, an LED illumination module, a sleeve, a transparent board and a positioning element. The heat sink base has a first surface and a second surface. The LED illumination module is mounted on the first surface of the heat sink base thereof. The sleeve is mounted on the first surface of the heat sink, so as to the LED illumination module is located within the sleeve, and the sleeve is formed with an open end, which has an internal flange. The transparent board is arranged at internal flange of the sleeve for covering the sleeve. And the positioning element is mounted at the sleeve for positioning the transparent board.
US08192052B2 Lamp and method for supporting a light source
A lamp is provided. Generally, the lamp comprises light source means for providing illumination in a frontward direction, retainer means for applying a frontward-directed load to the light source, and housing means for mechanically supporting the light source means and the retainer means.
US08192036B2 Rearview mirror adjustment system for trailer attached vehicle
A system and method for automatically correcting the viewing angle of a rear-view mirror on a vehicle towing a trailer when the vehicle is traveling around a curve. If the dimensions of the trailer are unknown, then the corrected viewing angle is the same as the hitch angle between the vehicle and the trailer. If the dimensions of the trailer are known, then trigonometry is used to determine the corrected viewing angle. Depending on whether the road is curving to the right or to the left will determine whether the left side rear-view mirror or the right side rear-view mirror is adjusted.
US08192029B2 Image display device
An image display device includes: a laser light source having a plurality of emitting sections arrayed in a predetermined direction; and a light modulation device that includes an illumination region extending in a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction, and that modulates the laser lights emitted from the laser light source in accordance with an image signal. In the image display device, the predetermined direction in which the emitting sections are arrayed coincides with the longitudinal direction of the illumination region of the light modulation device.
US08192027B2 Calibration and tracking control of heliostats in a central tower receiver solar power plant
A suntracking system for a central receiver solar power plant includes a heliostat field for reflecting sunlight to a receiver, cameras directed toward at least a subset of the heliostats, and a controller. The cameras are configured to produce images of sunlight reflected from multiple heliostats. The heliostats include a mirrored surface having a settable orientation and have a geometry modeled by a set of parameters. A method of estimating heliostat parameters for open-loop suntracking includes acquiring pointing samples by setting the direction of reflection of the heliostats and detecting concurrent sunlight reflections into the cameras. The method uses the acquired pointing samples and surveyed locations of the cameras to estimate the heliostat parameters. The method accurately maintains the sun's reflection directed toward the receiver open-loop utilizing the estimated tracking parameters.
US08192021B2 Multi-tint ophthalmic lenses for night vision
The present invention relates to an ophthalmic lens comprising, on its surface, a first central yellow zone preferentially absorbing the blue light of the visible spectrum, a second peripheral zone preferentially absorbing light having wavelengths of less than 600 nm, and preferentially a third zone which is colorless, grey, or brown in the lower part of the lens.
US08192005B2 Rollers for phase-change ink printing
A printer for transferring a phase-change ink onto a substrate includes components for conveying the substrate along a path through the printing machine, a printing station including a plurality of printheads disposed along the path and configured to transfer the phase-change solid ink onto the substrate as it is conveyed along the path, a plurality of metal backing rollers facing the plurality of printheads and arranged to support to the substrate passing between the backing rollers and the printheads, and a spreader station receiving the substrate from the printing station and configured to spread the phase-change solid ink on the substrate, the spreader station including a spreader roller and a metal pressure roller opposing the spreader roller. Each of the non-oiled metal rollers includes a coating that is oleophobic that has low adhesion toward the solid ink image but sufficient lateral friction as to not slide against the ink or paper web.
US08192004B2 Method and apparatus for melt cessation to limit ink flow and ink stick deformation
A system controls application of heat with a melt plate to an ink stick in a solid ink imaging device. The system includes a melt plate, a heater configured to heat the melt plate to a temperature sufficient to melt solid ink, a feed channel configured to direct solid ink sticks towards the melt plate to enable a leading edge of a solid ink stick to be melted by the heated melt plate, and a controller configured to separate the heater and the leading edge of the ink stick by a distance that arrest melting of the ink stick.
US08192003B2 Liquid container and liquid consuming apparatus
A small-capacity liquid container capable of preventing a trouble due to a pressurized deformation of a large-capacity liquid container even when plural liquid containers having different capacity are densely arranged. A liquid container is an improvement of a small-capacity liquid container of a plurality of liquid containers selected from a container lineup at least including a large-capacity liquid container and a small-capacity liquid container having an entire length smaller than that of the large-capacity liquid container, the plurality of liquid containers each having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, being mounted on a container holder of a liquid consuming apparatus in a state where pairs of largest faces thereof are adjacent to each other, and supplying a liquid with an introduction of a pressurizing fluid from the liquid consuming apparatus. The small-sized liquid container includes a liquid containing section containing the liquid, a container body accommodating the liquid containing section in a pressurizing space into which the pressurizing fluid is introduced, and an extension section formed by allowing the container body to extend toward the rear end in a mounting direction in which the liquid container is mounted on the container holder.
US08191999B2 Inkjet printer
In an inkjet printer of a station-supply type, when ink is supplied from a main tank of an ink cartridge to a sub tank storing ink to be supplied to a recording head, the ink cartridge and the sub tank are connected to each other. The inkjet printer includes: a piston pump including (a) a cylinder which communicates with the main tank and (b) a piston which is slidable in the cylinder in a lengthwise direction thereof and cooperates with the cylinder to form a pressure chamber; a power transmission device which transmits a power to the piston in a state in which the ink cartridge is attached to a frame of the inkjet printer; and a piston-position initializing device which moves the piston to a predetermined initial position.
US08191987B2 UV-curable coatings and methods for applying UV-curable coatings using thermal micro-fluid ejection heads
An aqueous-based UV-curable fluid composition for use in a micro-fluid ejection device. The fluid composition includes a mixture of poly-functional compounds, a colorant compound, a photo-initiator and less than about 50 weight percent water based on a total weight of the fluid composition, wherein the fluid composition is substantially devoid of volatile organic carrier fluids.
US08191977B2 Ejection device with slipping clutch
An ejection device for a furniture part mounted movably in or on a furniture body includes an ejector, a drive unit, and a friction clutch. The friction clutch is designed in such a manner that it decouples the drive unit and the ejector from each other when a predetermined torque is exceeded. The friction clutch includes two parts which are rotatable in relation to each other with respect to two directions of rotation. A spring is provided which interacts with the two parts in such a manner that the torque at which the decoupling takes place differs for the two directions of rotation of the two parts.
US08191975B2 Single channel roll stability system
A method and system for assessing and preventing overturn of a vehicle, the method and system being particularly suitable for use with commercial vehicles with brake systems typically used in North America, wherein a vehicle equipped with single brake pressure modulator is controlled to increase or decrease brake pressure, depending on braking state, to test vehicle wheel speed by response. If the vehicle wheel speed response indicates the inside wheels of the vehicle are off the ground or only lightly loaded, it may be assumed that the vehicle is approaching overturning. A braking intervention may be then executed by the single brake pressure modulator to prevent the incipient overturn event.
US08191971B2 Seat trim assembly
A seat trim assembly including a cushion and a retention clip. The retention clip includes first and second retention portions and a flexible arm. The first and second retention portions are adapted to engage a trim cover assembly. The flexible arm connects the first and second retention portions and has a serpentine configuration that facilitates flexing of the retention clip.
US08191965B2 Damper and vehicle seat equipped with the damper
A damper 1 includes a vessel 2; a partitioning member 6 which partitions an internal space of the vessel 2 into two accommodation chambers 4 and 5 for accommodating a viscous fluid 3 and which is movable with respect to the vessel 2; a moving force imparting device 7 for imparting to the partitioning member 6 a moving force in an A1 direction by the input of rotation in an R2 direction with respect to the vessel 2, so that the moving velocity is set to one corresponding to the rotating velocity of that input of rotation; a resilient device 8 for resiliently urging the partitioning member 6 in an A2 direction; a communicating hole 9 formed in the partitioning member 6; and a flow limiting device 10 for limiting the flow of the viscous fluid 3 in the accommodating chamber 4 into the accommodating chamber 5 through the communicating hole 9 when the internal pressure of the viscous fluid 3 accommodated in the accommodating chamber 4 has exceeded a fixed value.
US08191949B2 Food utensil
The food utensil is a scissor-like eating utensil that permits a user to retrieve snack foods from a container. The utensil comprises a pair of blades pivoted to each other. The blades have respective handles at one end and terminate with respective planar-configured forks at the other end. The dimensions of the blades, handles and forks are designed to enhance retrieval of snack foods from containers in a sanitary manner.
US08191944B2 Bumper attachment, bumper arrangement and motor vehicle
A bumper attachment (1) for a motor vehicle (3) has: a base attachment part (4) with a front side (5) for installation of a license plate (8) and a rear side (6) for installation of the bumper attachment (1) in a license plate trough (2) of the motor vehicle (3). At least one impact protection element (9, 10) extends from the front (5) of the base attachment part (4) and has a reinforcing insert (11, 12) and a receiving section (13, 14) for receiving the reinforcing insert (11, 12).
US08191940B2 Latching motion transfer mechanism
Latching motion transfer arrangements may be used to raise an object up and out of engagement with the ground or other support surface and to lower the object back onto the ground or other support surface. In one exemplary embodiment, the mechanism is caused to lift and latch by applying force in a first direction, a first time, and is caused to release and lower by applying force in the first direction, a second time.
US08191932B2 Fluid coupling and method for assembling same
A coupling for liquid and gas applications has a valve cartridge loaded from a front end of the coupling. The valve cartridge includes a valve body, a valve member, and a valve spring. The valve member is within the valve body and the valve spring coaxially surrounds the valve member and is disposed between the valve body and the valve member. An aperture in the valve body allows the valve member to pass through the valve body. A stop ring is disposed between the valve cartridge and the front-end portion to secure the valve cartridge in the valve cavity. The valve cartridge is secured in a valve cavity of the coupling by the stop ring. The valve member includes a valve that is opened when a mating coupling is inserted into the coupling. The valve also operates to shut off the flow when the couplings are disconnected.
US08191931B1 Wooden push or balance bicycle
An apparatus for training children to learn to balance and ride a bicycle is provided. A wooden bicycle includes a two-piece frame secured at one end, thereof. The frame may be painted with a special type of paint or it may include a natural wood finish. The paint allows for a customization of the frame with chalk. The frame includes a downward curvature that allows a smaller and/or younger child to use the bicycle. An adjustable seat is provided with a removable seat cushion. A pair of foot pegs are included on the frame which helps the child to improve their balance. A wooden handlebar with a pair of foam grips bar is used to steer and maneuver the bicycle. A pair of wooden wheels are provided that each include a pneumatic air or solid tire. An instruction manual for assembly and required tools and parts are also included.
US08191930B2 Frame design for reduced-size vehicle
Various embodiments of reduced-size vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UVs) are disclosed herein. In at least some embodiments, the vehicles include frames that are wider near the front and rear sections of the vehicles than within the mid-sections of the vehicles. This, in combination with the use of shock-absorbers that are substantially vertically oriented, allows for the opening-up of large interior cavities within the front and rear sections of the vehicles within which can be positioned large front and rear internal compartments that can provide storage/carrying capacity as well as added buoyancy for the vehicle, among other things. Also, in at least some embodiments, the vehicles can include special cooling and/or exhaust systems having components that are positioned substantially within the mid-sections of the vehicles, thus further increasing the amounts of space available for the cavities/compartments within the front and rear sections of the vehicles.
US08191922B2 Drop-bed trailer
An improved drop-bed trailer provides a trailer without ramps that lowers to the ground, enabling one person to load/offload motorcycles, etc. A trailer frame with independently pivotal elongated members on each side of the frame, a wheel on each elongated member. A rubber spring or steel coil spring suspension system on the end of each elongated member. A winch and cable pulley system connected to each end of the elongated members via cable connector fitting through the two snap-in bushings. Cable retrieval upon the winch causes the elongated members to be drawn parallel to the frame in raised locked position. A cable tension device keeps the primary cable uniformly coiled upon the winch while providing slack to the secondary cable for complete compression of the suspension system. A safety restrictor device is mounted to the trailer frame to limit the pivotal movement of the elongated members in the event of a cable mechanism failure.
US08191918B2 Device for adjusting ski binding height for improved balance
A mechanism for attaching a boot to a ski with the heel end of the boot being height adjustable. The toe end portion of the boot is pivotly attaching to the ski. A pair of members engaged to the heel end portion and the ski respectively engage each other in a manner to provide height adjustability of the heel end of the boot. A track on either of the boot or the ski is slidably engaged by the respective member. One of the members has an inclined serrated surface which engages a serrated surface of the other member for adjusting height. Alternatively, one of the members has an inclined surface, and height adjustment is achieved by a threaded rotatable member on one of the members which threadedly engages longitudinally spaced indents or other formations in the other member.
US08191917B2 Snowboard binding
The present invention provides a snowboard binding, including a mount, rear plate, top plate assembly base, rotary top pressboard, trigger support and coupling plate. The coupling plate, the mating frame of the rotary top pressboard, the mating ends of the trigger support and the top plate assembly base are coupled together to form a four-bar mechanism. The pressing state of the rotary top pressboard can be positioned directly by the perpendicular trigger support, and the rotary top pressboard can realize an expanded opening state over 90°. Thus, the snowboard boot can be slipped directly into the snowboard binding, enabling more convenient locating and release of the snowboard binding with better efficiency and applicability.
US08191915B2 Vehicle docking assistance system
An automatic docking system for docking a towing vehicle with a towed vehicle includes a sensing device, a controller, an automatic steering system, an automatic braking system, and a plurality of targets. The sensing device detects the plurality of targets located on a hitch of the towed vehicle. The controller determines the location of the towing vehicle relative to the towed vehicle based on the detection of the plurality of targets. The controller automatically steers the towing vehicle towards the towed vehicle to assist in the docking of the towing vehicle to the towed vehicle. The controller engages the automatic braking system to slow or stop the towing vehicle as required.
US08191912B2 Motorcycle fender extension for drilless assembly
A motorcycle fender extension component for drilless assembly to the leading or trailing end of a motorcycle fender includes a main body structure and a plurality of clamping elements. The main body structure has a top, bottom, front, back and first and second sides with downwardly extending flanges. The main body has a central axis that is arcuate with a radius, width and taper approximately equal to those of the motorcycle fender. At least three orifices are located on the first and second flange and main body. The at least three clamping elements are positioned at the at least three orifices on the first and second flange and on the main body away from the sides. The main body structure of the motorcycle fender extension component may be placed on a motorcycle fender and attached by fastening the clamps to sandwich the motorcycle fender between clamping elements and the main body structure. In other embodiments of the present invention motorcycle fender extension component the motorcycle fender is also included.
US08191902B2 Drill chuck
A chuck including a body having a tail section and a nose section defining an axial bore. A plurality of jaws are movably disposed with respect to the axial bore and a nut is in threaded engagement with the jaws. A sleeve engages the nut so that rotation of the sleeve moves the jaws. A first ring defines a plurality of teeth and a second ring is rotatable relative to the nut over a limited arc and defines at least one pawl. In a first state, the second ring is non-rotatable relative to the first ring in both the opening and closing directions, and in a second state the first and second rings are rotatable about the body, and the second ring is rotatable relative to the first ring in the closing direction.
US08191896B2 Card game device, card data reader, card game control method, recording medium, program, and card
A card game apparatus includes a large-size panel display, a main control unit that controls screens on the large-size panel display, and a plurality of terminal apparatuses that are communicably connected to the main control unit. A game player purchases an integrated circuit card and, for example, eleven player cards on each of which, a soccer player's photograph is printed. When the game player arranges the player cards on a player card arrangement panel of one of the terminal apparatuses, card data recorded on the back of the player card will be read by an internal image sensor. Then, a team is organized by the player cards, and a game starts. The game player can direct a player's position and formation by changing placement of the player card.
US08191894B2 Card feed mechanisms for card-handling apparatuses and related methods
Apparatuses and methods for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into plural hands of cards, wherein each of the hands contains a random arrangement of cards. The apparatus may comprise a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack, and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanism and the elevator so that an individual card is moved into an identified compartment. The number of compartments receiving cards and the number of cards moved to each compartment may be selected. Apparatuses for feeding cards may comprise a surface for supporting a stack of cards, a feed roller with a frictional outer surface, a drive mechanism for causing rotation of the feed roller, a pair of speed-up rollers to advance the cards out of the feed roller, and a clutch mechanism for disengaging the feed roller from the drive mechanism as the card comes into contact with the speed-up rollers.
US08191892B2 Feed device and image forming apparatus
A feed device includes a paper tray on which sheets are stacked and a side fence that guides a side edges of a sheet stacked on the paper tray in a sheet feed direction. The feed device feeds an uppermost sheet from the sheets stacked on the paper tray to an image forming apparatus. A plurality of concavities and convexities integrally formed with an identical material to the side fence is formed on a surface of the side fence that is in contact with an edge face of a fed sheet.
US08191890B2 Singulator device for standard and extended postal objects
A singulator device for standard postal objects and extended postal objects, configured for receiving at input groups of standard/extended plane rectangular postal objects grouped in packs and supplying at output singulated standard/extended postal objects, i.e., each one is physically separated from the others. The device comprises: a singulator system; a resting surface for the packs of postal objects; and a drawing system that displaces the packs towards the singulator system, designed to withdraw individually the postal objects that form a front end face of the pack. Also provided is a supporting device, configured for providing abut surfaces on opposite end portions of the packs formed by extended postal objects to keep the extended postal objects with planes of lie substantially perpendicular to the direction of advance, thus preventing the extended postal objects from possibly bending towards the adjacent packs formed by standard postal objects.
US08191888B2 Image forming apparatus and computer readable medium
An image forming apparatus includes: a plurality of paper supplying trays; an image forming unit; and a cover. The image forming apparatus further includes a cover opening/closing detecting unit that detects an operation for opening/closing the cover; a paper supplying tray opening/closing detecting unit that detects an operation for opening/closing the paper supplying tray; a paper jam detecting unit that detects a paper jam in at least one place in a paper transporting path; a paper jam release deciding unit that decides whether the paper jam in the detecting place is released or not after the confirmation of a detection; and a completion control unit that controls to complete a paper jam processing based on the decision that the paper jam in all of the places in the paper transporting path is released through the paper jam release deciding unit.
US08191880B2 Sheet metal ground conductor clamp
A ground conductor clamp has a sheet metal clamp body with overlapped portions. The clamp body may be stamped from sheet metal. The overlapped portions have aligned circular holes in them for receiving a threaded insert nut inserted into them. The insert nut is spin riveted to attach it to the overlapped portions of the clamp body. A flange of the insert nut has a flat face that engages the clamp body to prevent rotation of the insert nut. The overlapped portion includes an inner bent tab that strengthens the sheet metal clamp body. The clamp also includes a threaded fastener, such as a bolt, that is threaded into the insert nut to engage a conductive lead and a ground conductor, such as a ground rod or ground electrode.
US08191878B2 Mounting device
Mounting device for mounting or demounting a wind turbine blade (14) to or from a hub which is located on a nacelle at the top of a wind turbine tower (12). The mounting device comprises a sledge which comprises a support structure and a gripping structure. The support structure is adapted to releasably grip the wind turbine tower and adapted to guide the sledge along an outer surface of the wind turbine tower between a bottom end position and a top end position of the tower. The gripping structure is adapted to provide a releasable fixation of the wind turbine blade in a fixed orientation relative to the gripping structure. The sledge is adapted to be moved along the tower by a combination of the support structure and a cable connection to the top end. A tilt device (17) is arranged between the support structure and the gripping structure to facilitate tilting of the gripping structure relative to the support structure.
US08191875B2 Hydraulic engine mount
A hydraulic engine mount assembly includes a support bracket defining a passageway that communicates between a pair of fluid chambers formed in an elastomeric body. According to one embodiment, the mount includes first and second connection devices for respectively connecting the engine mount to first and second connection surfaces.
US08191872B2 Heat exchange laminate
A heat exchange laminate comprises a formable carrier layer at least partially covered with a flexible liquid retaining layer having an open structure. By forming such a laminate of two layers, desired properties such as the spatial distribution of the liquid retaining layer, can be imparted to the heat exchange laminate prior to forming. The laminate may then be conveniently formed into any desired shape by known manufacturing procedures for incorporation into a heat exchanger. The laminate may be used to cool a first fluid by evaporation of a liquid into a second fluid operating at or near its saturation point.
US08191871B2 Diffuser for aeration
Disclosed is a diffuser installation structure capable of improving uniformity of air bubbles discharged from air bubble discharge holes, restricting the formation of dead zone air bubble discharge holes, and having the tolerance against design deviation. In the installation structure for a diffuser including at least one air feeding port and an air bubble discharge wall having a plurality of air bubble discharge holes, the air bubble discharge wall is inclined upward in the direction of increasing distance relative to the air feeding port.
US08191866B2 System for accumulating hysteresis movements
With certain technical applications actuation has to be carried out at positions where the required energy supply is costly or difficult to provide. The invention offers a solution to this problem with a mechanical process, which functions without energy, for those cases where operation-related variable force or torque occurs, or where such force or torque fluctuations can be artificially produced. The invention concerns, on the one hand, the storage of rope segment that, multiplied by existing force, represents stored work, whereby the force contact point moves against the direction of force. On the other hand, it concerns the subsequent utilization of this stored rope segment for actuation, with actuation being gained from the stored rope segment through force prevailing at this time, whereby the force contact point moves in the direction of force.
US08191864B2 Jack bar with extendable tubes and fixturing mechanism
A jack bar includes an outer tube, an inner tube and a positioner tube coaxially located. The positioner tube is extendable to adjust a length to the jack bar in use while enabling the jack bar to be retracted for storage. The jack bar further includes a clamp configured to receive tubes of various shapes. The clamp is further configured to prevent twisting or turning of clamped tubes.
US08191863B2 Staple remover
The staple remover is a device that effectively removes staples, especially staples that have already been partially removed. The device includes top and bottom jaws that are pivotally connected in pliers-like fashion. A conventional spring biases the jaws apart. Each jaw is provided with a toothed or serrated-like inner surface. The outer surface of each jaw is padded to enhance ergonomic dexterity and comfort. An elongate prong extends from the front surface of the bottom jaw.
US08191858B2 Solenoid valve having a short axis
According to a solenoid valve of the invention, which is fitted in a pump housing, when ABS/TCS/ESP operate, a valve body with a plunger that forms the internal channel with a plunger seat is formed in a simple cylindrical shape to reduce a cycle time and manufacturing cost while a seat housing that is manufactured by pressing, in which a filter and plunger seat forming an internal channel are assembled is fitted in a vale body by staking. Accordingly, a laser welding is not needed and the length of the end portion of valve body is reduced, such that the entire length is reduced and the weigh is reduced as well.
US08191853B2 Concrete form holding a partial sheet of insulation at a preselected position therein
A concrete forming apparatus having an inside form panel and an outside form panel spaced opposite from the inside form panel to create a gap into which plastic concrete will be placed and cured. A sheet of rigid insulation of a reduced height less than the height of the form panels is placed in the gap. A plurality of tie sleeves are pre-inserted through the insulation at regular intervals. A plurality of form ties are releasably connected to at least one of the form panels and extended through the tie sleeve to support the reduced height sheet of insulation at the desired vertical position. The tie sleeve strengthens the insulation in the area of the form tie and prevents damage to the insulation and prevents vertical movement of the insulation during placement and curing of the plastic concrete.
US08191845B1 Multi-function hook
A multi-function hook is provided. The multi-function hook includes a hook unit and a plug unit. The hook unit includes a fixing board and at least one hook body. The fixing board includes a first L-shaped sheet and a second L-shaped fixing sheet having a hole respectively. The fixing board further includes at least one first protruded hook member, and an assembling hole disposed corresponding to the second L-shaped fixing sheet. The hook body is fixed on the front surface of the fixing board. The plug unit is assembled to the assembling hole and is fixed on the fixing board. The plug unit includes a cover and at least one second protruded hook member connecting with the cover. The cover includes a hollow hole disposed corresponding to the second L-shaped fixing sheet. The hook is fixed on a fixing body by nailing way with the first and the second L-shaped fixing sheets, and the hook is fixed on a fixing body by fastening way with the first and the second protruded hook members, so that the hook would be fixed by nailing and fastening ways.
US08191844B2 Container holder for use on a bicycle
Embodiments of the present invention include a container holder for a bicycle that has a mounting member and a mating member. The mounting member facilitates mounting the container holder to a portion of the bicycle. The mating member is operatively coupled to the mounting member and is interdependently configured to inter-engage a corresponding reciprocal mating member of a container upon receipt of the container by the container holder to facilitate retention of the container by the container holder.
US08191843B2 Mudguard mounting structure
There is provided a mudguard mounting structure, superior in versatility and capable of reducing the number of steps for mounting. The present invention is a structure for mounting a mudguard on a rear bumper of a vehicle, in which a mounting member is used to mount the mudguard on the rear bumper, said mounting member comprising a clamping portion on one side thereof for clamping an end portion of the rear bumper, and a mounting portion on which the mudguard is mounted on an other side. The mounting member can be mounted on the rear bumper by allowing the clamping portion to clamp the aforementioned end portion, thereby reducing the number of parts and steps for mounting, and costs. Since the mounting member excels in versatility, costs can be further reduced. An engagement portion for engaging the rear bumper is provided on an inner surface of the clamping portion.
US08191842B2 Fixing module
A fixing module and a case having the fixing module are provided. The case includes a plate having at least one first mounting hole, and a fixing module. The fixing module is used to fix an electronic device to the plate. The electronic device has at least one second mounting hole corresponding to the first mounting hole. The fixing module includes a base, a sliding member, and at least one resilient element. The base is mounted to the plate. The sliding member is movably disposed on the base. The resilient element located between the base and sliding member includes at least one pressing portion and at least one locking pin located on the pressing portion. When the sliding member is in a locking position, the sliding member presses the pressing portion such that the locking pin passes through the first mounting hole and inserts into the second mounting hole.
US08191838B2 Collapsible and adjustable electronics support systems
A collapsible and adjustable electronics support with a releasably lockable rotatable base having a link with adjustable drag hinges connecting the releasably lockable rotatable base to a receiver for a polygonal support adapter. One or two tools for adjusting the drag hinges are included with first and second releasably snap-fit covers for respective first and second link sides of the link. The covers also cover the adjustable device in the drag hinge ends. The releasably lockable rotatable base is a four-part base with an adhesive part, a flexible and resilient panel supporting an axle, a first rigid panel rotationally fixed relative to the flexible and resilient panel, and a second rigid panel that rotates relative to the first rigid panel. The low profile in a collapsed configuration avoids rubbing the environmental surface to which it is attached. Wire management guides are provided on the receiver.
US08191834B2 Cooling system on the basis of suction of a boundary layer
A cooling system on board an aircraft includes a device for removing by suction a boundary layer, and a heat exchanger through which flows the boundary layer air that has been removed by suction. Cooling by way of a ram air channel can be reduced or entirely stopped, depending on the flight phase, such that the air drag of the aircraft and thus the fuel consumption can be reduced.
US08191831B2 Parachute release device for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
The disclosure provides a parachute release device which may include a connecting element capable of connecting to an aircraft and to a parachute and a locking mechanism capable of releasing the connecting element from the aircraft upon being actuated by an actuator, wherein the parachute may be connected to the connecting element by a multiplicity of points, wherein the locking mechanism is adapted to inhibit a force from being applied to the actuator and wherein the device may be suitable for use in small weights aircrafts due to its small size and weight. The disclosure further provides a method for releasing a parachute from an aircraft, the method may include activating an actuator capable of releasing a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is adapted to release a connecting element from an aircraft upon being actuated, wherein the connecting element is adapted to connect a parachute and wherein the locking mechanism is adapted to inhibit a force from being applied to the actuator.
US08191824B2 Integrated load sensing system
An integrated load sensing system includes a housing including a coupling pin portion thereof. A bridge circuit includes a set of strain gauges bonded to the coupling pin portion. A bridge circuit excitation, error correction, and amplification (BCEECA) subsystem is operatively connected to the bridge circuit for receiving indications of shear load from the strain gauges, correcting signal error, and amplifying the indications of shear load. The BCEECA subsystem provides amplified output signals. A power conditioning module is operatively connected to the BCEECA subsystem for receiving power from an external power supply and conditioning power to an appropriate state for driving the bridge circuit as well as an appropriate state for error correction and amplification circuitry within the BCEECA subsystem. A logic module compares the amplified output signals to a predetermined signal threshold and provides latching of enunciation in accordance with a selected delay after the threshold is surpassed. An enunciation element providing enunciation of the output signals surpassing the signal threshold in accordance with the logic module. The bridge circuit, the BCEECA subsystem, the power conditioning module, the logic module, and the enunciation element are contained and sealed within the housing. The invention includes a method for in situ testing of a shear load sensing system for a mechanical system.
US08191822B2 Device for an aircraft power unit
Device (3) for providing a warning signal when the fan cowl doors (8, 9) of an aircraft are not properly latched by primary locks (6), wherein the device comprises a panel (4) the panel (4) being rotatably mounted on one of the two fan cowl doors (8 or 9), the panel (4) being closed on that one fan cowl doors (8 or 9) by rotation thereby covering at least partially the primary locks (6), such that all the primary locks (6) have to be properly latched for the panel (4) to be closed, and at least one of the panel (4) primary locks (6) not being properly latched prevents proper closing of the panel (4).
US08191817B2 Pressure roll or continuous pressure belt
A feature of a pressure roll or a continuous pressure belt for the formation of a reeling nip using a parent roll in a reel-up for the reeling up of a material web, in particular paper web or paperboard web, is that the roll surface or, respectively, belt surface adjacent to the reeling nip has helical, an at least single-start groove, the depth of which is in the range from about 0.4 mm to about 1.5 mm, and the maximum width of which is in the range from about 35 to 60 mm.
US08191815B2 Auto-reversible reel
An auto-reversible reel includes a wheel-shaped housing, a rotor rotatably mounted in the housing, a pull rope fastened to and winding round the rotor, a control member fastened to one end of the pull rope outside the housing and operable to pull the pull rope out of the housing, and a power spring adapted for reversing the rotor to take up the pull rope. The rotor has a retaining block located on the inside wall thereof and a stop plate extending over the retaining block. The power spring has a retaining hole located on the outer end thereof and fastened to the retaining block of the rotor in such a manner that the stop plate prohibits disconnection of the outer end of the power spring from the retaining block.
US08191800B2 Fuel injection valve
A fuel injection valve has a first and a second injection ports whose central axes are parallel to each other, the central axis of the second injection port is out of alignment with respect to the central axis of the first injection port so that, when the largest length M1 of a longer-side line along which a plane including the central axis of the valve seat member and the central axis of the second injection port intersects with an inner wall of the second injection port is larger than the shortest length M2 of a shorter-side line along which the above plane intersects with an inner wall of the second injection port, the distance W1 from the inner wall of the first injection port to the longer-side line of the second injection port as measured within the plane is larger than the distance W2 from the inner wall of the first injection port to the shorter-side line of the second injection port as measured within the plane.
US08191798B2 Agricultural field sprayer and process for its operation
An agricultural field sprayer (10) includes an electrically driven pump (50) locatable directly under sprayer fluid tank for conveying the fluid from the tank to a supply line. A return line (54) connects the pump (50) to the tank (22), and a sprayer line (32) connecting the pump (50) to an application assembly (20). The return line (54) and the sprayer line (32) include electrically operated control valves (68, 64), and an electronic control system (56) operates the motor (46) and the control valves (64, 68) as a function of different variables including field sprayer speed and sprayer fluid characteristics. The valve and motor controls and an additional valve-controlled return line facilitate numerous operational modes including tank fill, rinse, recirculation, spray, partial width spray, and stop modes.
US08191788B2 Transaction card
The present invention relates to a process for producing an opaque, transparent or translucent transaction card having multiple features, such as a holographic foil, integrated circuit chip, silver magnetic stripe with text on the magnetic stripe, opacity gradient, an invisible optically recognizable compound, a translucent signature field such that the signature on back of the card is visible from the front of the card and an active thru date on the front of the card. The invisible optically recognizable compound is preferably an infrared ink comprising an infrared phthalocyanine dye, an infrared phosphor, and a quantum dot energy transfer compound. The infrared ink can be detected by a sensor found in an ATM or card assembly line.
US08191784B2 High density, rectangular binary code symbol
A binary code symbol for non-linear strain measurement designed specifically for perimeter-based deformation and strain analysis. The symbol is rectangular with a continuous outer perimeter, two data regions along adjacent sides of the rectangle and a utility region adjacent each side opposite the data regions. Each data region is made up of at least two rows, each of which is made up of a number of data cells, and each utility region is made up of at least two rows, each of which is made up of utility cells with alternating appearance. There are at least two distinct finder cells on opposite corners of the rectangle, which can be used to orient the symbol. A non-linear strain gage for measuring the strain on an object under load in accordance includes a target, a sensor, and a computer, wherein the target is a binary code symbol.
US08191776B2 System and method for funding via a prepaid card a financial product intended or targeted by the purchaser at the time of purchase
System and method for funding via a prepaid card a financial product intended at a time of purchase by a purchaser for a customer. A customer cash account is created and funds allocated to the prepaid card are redeemed solely as cash funds in the customer's cash account. The customer may either withdraw at least some of the cash funds in the customer's cash account or apply at least some of the cash funds in the customer's cash account to a financial product. In response to receiving the customer's instructions to apply at least some of the cash funds from the customer's cash account to a financial product selected by the customer as well as their acknowledgement of disclosures or consent to an agreement related to the selected financial product, the cash funds are applied to an associated financial product account.
US08191774B2 United crimes elimination network
A computerized method and apparatus are established to identify a subject of common interest among multiple parties without releasing the true identity of any subject. Furthermore, a computerized network provides different parties at different locations with a mechanism to conduct cooperative activities concerning such a subject of common interest without exposing that subject to possible identity theft.
US08191770B2 Method of authorizing automated banking machine use responsive to user data read from data bearing records
An automated banking machine operates to carry out financial transactions for authorized machine users responsive to user data read from data bearing records. The machine includes an input devices including a card reader which operates to read card data that is usable to identify a user or a user account. The machine also includes a cash dispenser that is selectively operative to dispense currency notes to authorized machine users. A computer causes financial accounts read by the card reader to be assessed a value for cash dispensed. The computer causes operation of the cash dispenser in response to receiving cash dispense instructions. The computer includes software that prevents cash dispenser operation in response to cash dispense instructions being received in communications from at least one remote address.
US08191767B1 Automated banking machine with noncontact reading of card data
An automated banking machine operates responsive to data read from data bearing records. The data corresponds to card data which corresponds to at least one financial account. The record data is read by a reader and compared to stored data to authorize use of the machine. A financial transfer corresponding to the account may be carried out once use is authorized based on correspondence of the record data. A printed record of transactions is printed by the machine. Record data may alternatively be received by a reading device of the machine from a mobile device of a user, such as a cell phone.
US08191764B2 System and method for detecting security features on paper ballots
The present invention is directed to a system and method for detecting security features on paper ballots. The security features allow a ballot tabulator to distinguish between an authentic ballot and a counterfeit ballot that does not include the required security feature. One or more security sensors in the ballot tabulator are operable to detect the security feature on the ballot, and provide an output indicating the presence or absence of the security feature. The ballot tabulator preferably generates a visual alert and/or audio alert if the security sensor does not detect the security feature on the paper ballot.
US08191753B2 Lateral position detection and control for friction stir systems
An apparatus and computer program are disclosed for processing at least one workpiece using a rotary tool with rotating member for contacting and processing the workpiece. The methods include oscillating the rotary tool laterally with respect to a selected propagation path for the rotating member with respect to the workpiece to define an oscillation path for the rotating member. The methods further include obtaining force signals or parameters related to the force experienced by the rotary tool at least while the rotating member is disposed at the extremes of the oscillation. The force signals or parameters associated with the extremes can then be analyzed to determine a lateral position of the selected path with respect to a target path and a lateral offset value can be determined based on the lateral position. The lateral distance between the selected path and the target path can be decreased based on the lateral offset value.
US08191745B2 Secured children's book and toy holder
The Secured Children's Book and Toy Holder that attaches to a child's car seat, stroller, or other children's transport device utilizing the Secured Children's Book and Toy Holder's seat belt harness connector loop and pads of mating hook and loop fastener material attachment ribbons that securely hold children's books and toys in a child's lap, preventing them from being dropped or thrown. The Secured Children's Book and Toy Holder is made of fabrics with strategically located reinforced button holes and a covered zippered back access panel to allow secure attachment of three books and/or multiple toys through the use of pads of mating hook and loop fastener material attachment ribbons.
US08191739B1 Mixed gas method for filling aerosol containers and aerosol formulas for improved environmental profile by VOC/HFC reduction
An aerosol dispenser that is pressurized by both compressed gas and liquefied gas is able to retain desired spray characteristics, such as foaming, while reducing volatile organic compound content or hydrofluorocarbon content. A minimal amount of liquefied gas allows the product to retain its desired spray characteristics, and the compressed gas causes higher internal pressures while reducing the amount of liquefied gas needed as a propellant. The aerosol container may be filled by first placing a desired aerosol product in the container, followed by introducing liquefied gas followed by compressed gas, or by introducing compressed gas followed by liquefied gas.
US08191731B2 Apparatus for feeding screws
The present invention provides an apparatus for feeding screws. In the apparatus, screws are scooped up from the storage container by a scooping unit and put onto a carrying unit. The screws are arranged in line and carried by the carrying unit and discharged through a discharge unit. The scooping unit includes a rotating arm which rotates on the outer wall of the storage container, and a magnet which is fastened to the front end of the rotating arm. The carrying unit includes a screw receiving part. The rotating arm rotates on the outer wall of the storage container to scoop up the screws using magnetic force of the magnet and load the screws onto the screw receiving part. The scooping unit further includes a magnet spacing part which is provided on the outer wall of the storage container. The magnet spacing part moves the magnet of the rotating arm away from the outer wall of the storage container, so that when the magnet is moved away from the outer wall of the storage container at the upper portion of the storage container, the attractive force of the magnet to the screws is reduced, thus dropping the screws onto the screw receiving part of the carrying unit.
US08191729B2 Device and method for mixing bone cement
Device and method for mixing bone cement, for injection into vertebra in particular, comprising a mixing beaker (1), manual stirring rod (6) and a cover (2), which fits in said mixing beaker (1) with a perfect fit, and the lowermost point of which features an extraction hollow cone (3) in which an extraction syringe for extraction by suction of bone cement mixed in said mixing beaker (1) is provided.
US08191726B2 Can end having curved end panel surfaces
A method of making an easy open end for a container includes steps of providing a can end blank having an end panel and forming the can end blank in a series of forming operations that are performed with specialized and unique tooling. The can end is preferably shaped during the forming operations so that a major portion of the end panel is curved. Specifically, the curvature is preferably such that a top surface of the major portion is generally concave and a bottom surface of the major portion is generally convex. The end panel is also preferably shaped and constructed so that the curved major portion will invert in shape upon the application of a sufficient predetermined pressure differential between the top and bottom surfaces. A method of testing a fill level of a sealed container is performed in reliance on this “cricketing” or “oil canning” effect.
US08191721B2 Method and device for mounting of wind turbine blades
A method for mounting a wind turbine blade to a wind turbine hub by use of a crane boom is provided. The orientation of the blade is kept substantially horizontal when the blade is lifted off the ground and mounted to the rotor hub. Control wires which connect the blade via the crane boom to a winch arrangement are used for keeping the blade orientation substantially horizontal in addition to at least one bearing wire for bearing the blade weight.
US08191720B2 Method of assembling fixture accessories
Assembling a merchandising system includes placing a display fixture on a floor in a retail environment, where the display fixture includes a first end assembly supported on the floor, a second end assembly supported on the floor, a first cross-piece, and a second cross-piece, each of the first and second cross-pieces extending between the first and second end assemblies and substantially parallel to one another. A display fixture accessory is releasably secured to the display fixture and an accessory sheath is slid over the display fixture accessory by sliding an open bottom of the accessory sheath over the display fixture accessory until a top of the accessory sheath abuts a top of the display fixture accessory and the accessory sheath covers a substantial portion of the display fixture accessory. The accessory sheath includes a plurality of substantially horizontal bracket slots. A slot mountable bracket of a retail device is releasably secured into one of the bracket slots and a plurality of products are supported with the retail device.
US08191717B2 System for safely transporting loading and unloading slabs
A system including a collapsible, recyclable, cost-effective module for transporting, loading and unloading slabs or tiles. The module comprises two lateral U-shaped members with each U-shaped member defining a top portion, bottom portion, proximal arm and distal arm. The member bottom portions are attached to one another and corresponding releasable connectors close each U-shaped member. The module is attached to a stabilizing base which in turn is secured to a transport ship or vehicle. Multiple modules are interconnected for the purpose of stabilization.
US08191711B2 Bend and peel tablet package
A blister package and method of removing a dosage form from a blister package are disclosed. In one embodiment, the blister package includes a unitary blister sheet and a unitary sheet of lidding material. The lidding sheet is peelably sealed to the blister sheet, and includes unsealed areas for facilitating the peeling of the lidding material from the blister sheet. The unsealed areas are preferably only accessible upon a bending of the blister package.
US08191708B2 Package
The present invention refers to a multi-layered package, and particularly to a container including a container opening and a container bottom. Preferably, at least one outer wall includes a predetermined removable wall section, revealing an information. The feature of the package according to the present invention is that the package is formed with at least one inner wall and one outer wall. Thereby, the wall section is as part of the outer wall a removable card.
US08191707B2 Curtain rod package
A package and a method of assembling a package are provided. The package includes: a front wall connected to the rear wall by a first side wall and a second side wall; a first end portion and a second end portion disposed at opposite ends of the rear wall, front wall, first side wall, and second side wall; an elongated member; and at least one bracket for holding the elongated member by a clamping effect. A blank is also provided. The blank includes a plurality of panels foldably connected to one another and a bracket connected to one of the panels.
US08191704B2 Conveying apparatus
A conveyance device uses a simple structure to cause a travel body on which food and drink are placed to travel stably. The conveyance device (10) causes the travel body (11) to travel and convey the food and drink that can be placed on the travel body (11). The conveyance device (10) has a conveyance drive section (13) provided along a travel path (12) on which the travel body (11) travels and also has a travel body connection section (14) connected to the travel body (11) and moving in the direction of travel of the travel body (11) by being driven by the conveyance drive section (13). The conveyance drive section (13) is placed on a side of the travel path (12).
US08191700B2 Bill box having a wireless memory function for use in a bill acceptor
A bill box for use in a bill acceptor having a RFID read/write module and adapted for receiving bills from the bill acceptor is disclosed to include a housing having a bracket provided with locating grooves, bottom plates, stop plates, finger slot and stop grooves and suspending therein and dividing the internal space of the housing into a bill storage chamber and a partition chamber, and a memory carrier provided with stop blocks, retaining lugs, springy retainer and stop strips for quick mounting in the bracket in a detachable manner and carrying a wireless memory device for recording bill storage data by the wireless read/write module of the bill acceptor wirelessly for quick data check.
US08191696B2 Torque transmission apparatus
A torque transmission apparatus includes first and second torque transmission members 3, 5, a frictional clutch 7 for transmitting a torque between the torque transmission members 3, 5, a stationary housing 11 accommodating a coupling 9, a spatial part for enclosing oil in the stationary housing 11 and an opening 15 formed in a part of the coupling 9 so that the oil in the stationary housing 11 is introduced into the coupling 9.
US08191693B2 Vibration damper
A vibration damper has a working cylinder and a working piston axially displaceable therein. A compensation cylinder has a compensation piston axially displaceable therein. The compensation cylinder is situated at the longitudinal end of the working cylinder and diagonally thereto.
US08191686B2 Device and method of standby lubrication for an engine
A method of providing a standby lubrication for an engine in the event of the failure of a main lubrication system of this engine, in which the failure is detected and, in response to the detection of this failure, at least one portion of a fuel fluid of the engine is tapped off to lubricate at least one element of the engine. A standby lubrication device includes a device for detecting a failure of a main lubrication system, a device for tapping off at least a portion of a fuel fluid of the engine in order to direct it to at least one element of the engine intended to be lubricated, and a controller connected to the tapping and detection devices, in order to carry out the standby lubrication method.
US08191680B2 Support assembly
This invention relates of a support assembly for a vehicle of the type that includes an enclosed load carrying compartment having a roof, said support assembly being adapted to provide support for a person when moving about on said roof. The support assembly includes a guide that is mountable on the roof and a base that is adapted to engage said guide and which is capable of movement along said guide while remaining engaged therewith. The support assembly also includes a support structure that includes a lower end portion that is pivotally connected to the base and a handle that is spaced from said base. The support assembly also includes a lock for selectively locking the support structure in a desired attitude relative to the base.
US08191678B2 Apparatus for absorbing acoustical energy and use thereof
An apparatus comprising a combination of a microphone and a composite acoustic panel. The composite acoustic panel comprises materials having different spectra of acoustic absorption. The materials may be integrated in a single layer or in a plurality of different layers.
US08191671B2 Axle carrier assemblies and vehicles comprising axle carrier assemblies
An axle carrier assembly is provided for a vehicle. The axle carrier assembly includes an axle carrier, a first cylinder, a second cylinder, and an actuator. The axle carrier is configured to rotatably support an axle. The first cylinder is rotatably supported by the axle carrier such that the first cylinder is rotatable about a first axis. The first cylinder is configured to support a vehicular swing member. The second cylinder is rotatably supported by the axle carrier such that the second cylinder is rotatable about a second axis. The second cylinder is configured to support a vehicular swing member. The actuator is associated with each of the first and second cylinders. The actuator is configured to substantially simultaneously rotate the first cylinder and the second cylinder with respect to the axle carrier.
US08191665B1 Snowmobile
A snowmobile includes a frame having a steering hoop structure and a tunnel. The steering hoop structure is coupled to first and second side panels of the tunnel and extends above the tunnel. The first and second side panels of the tunnel each include a running board supported by the steering hoop structure. The steering hoop structure includes a toe clip positioned adjacent to each of the running boards.
US08191652B2 Directional control drilling system
A drilling system, comprising a non-rotating conveyance system; a tool connected to the non-rotating conveyance system and including anchors by which the tool can be anchored in position when located in a borehole; a drill bit connected to the tool; a motor for rotating the drill bit; and a directional control system interposed between the tool and the drill bit; wherein, in use, whit the drilling system located in a borehole, the directional control system can be operates so as to displace the drill bit away from the axis of the borehole.
US08191651B2 Sensor on a formation engaging member of a drill bit
In one aspect of the present invention, a drilling assembly comprises a drill bit comprising a bit body and a cutting surface. A formation engaging element protrudes from the cutting surface and is configured to engage a formation. At least one compliant member is disposed intermediate the bit body and formation engaging element and is configured to provide compliancy in a lateral direction for the formation engaging element.
US08191646B2 Method for protecting hydrocarbon conduits
A method of protecting a hydrocarbon conduit during a period of reduced hydrocarbon flow is disclosed, where nitrogen is introduced into the conduit at a pressure of 1 to 350 bar g and at a rate of (1.5 to 35)A kg/sec (where A is the internal cross sectional area of the conduit in square meters) for a period of t hours where t=(p×d)/n where d is the length in km of the conduit from the nitrogen introduction location and n is 10 to 400.
US08191645B2 Subterranean well tool including a locking seal healing system
A well tool with multi-stage remedial system improves the durability of a subterranean well tool having an expanded elastomeric member, such as a packer, for use inside a tubular member. The well tool with multi-stage remedial system has a plurality of mandrel members shiftable within the tubular member for anchoring and for setting the seal system. A floating tandem mounted annularly around the lower mandrel members has one end (upon shifting) proximate an end of the seal system, and the floating tandem has an opening to ambient bottom-hole-pressure of the subterranean well. A locking tandem is interposed with the floating tandem and at least one of the lower mandrel members. The floating tandem and the locking tandem together assist in abating elastomeric member extrusion under high temperature, high pressure environments as well as other conditions lending to failure within the well.
US08191635B2 Hole opener with hybrid reaming section
A hole opener having a hybrid reaming section for downhole earth boring operations may include a reamer body having an axis of rotation, an outer periphery, and upper and lower ends, a plurality of rolling cutters coupled to the outer periphery and depending downwardly, the rolling cutters defining a rolling cutter cutting profile having a cutting diameter, a plurality of fixed blade cutters coupled to the outer periphery and defining a fixed blade cutter cutting profile having a cutting diameter, each fixed blade cutter being coupled between adjacent rolling cutters. At least one of the rolling cutters may be asymmetrically coupled about the axis. The cutting diameter of the rolling cutter cutting profile may be larger than the cutting diameter of the fixed blade cutter cutting profile. At least a portion of the rolling cutter cutting profile may be deeper than the fixed blade cutter cutting profile.
US08191632B2 Method of treating a subterranean formation using a rheology model for fluid optimization
Subterranean formation treatment methods incorporating a rheology model which enables prediction of fluid rheology properties during a treatment operation, where the foundation of the model is a description of the reaction chemistry which describes how the number of crosslinks and broken polymer linkages develops in time under the influence of crosslinkers, breakers, and/or thermally induced effects and pressure effects. In one aspect, when used as a tool for simulating the fluid viscosity, the model can help optimizing the fluid design and optional breaker schedule for a hydraulic fracturing treatment.
US08191620B2 Gripper for coiled tubing injectors
The current device relates to a gripper assembly for use within a coiled tubing injector unit. The gripper assembly comprises a carrier for securing the gripper to the chain drive mechanism of the coiled tubing injector unit and a gripping shoe carried by the carrier. The configuration of the gripper assembly permits quick and easy removal and replacement of the gripping shoe.
US08191612B2 Cooler module without base panel
A light, compact, non-bottom panel type cooler module includes a plurality of radiation fins arranged in a stack, and a plurality of U-shaped heat pipes fastened to the radiation fins to hold the radiation fins in parallel, each U-shaped heat pipe having one or two opposite end pipe sections thereof press-fitted into respective through holes on the radiation fins and a flat bottom surface portion exposed to the outside of the radiation fins for bonding to a semiconductor device for enabling the heat pipes to transport heat from the semiconductor device to the radiation fins for dissipation.
US08191611B2 Method for continuous casting of steel and electromagnetic stirrer to be used therefor
An electromagnetic stirrer for stirring molten steel of the liquid core in a width-wise direction of the slab includes an iron core disposed with its length-wise axis along a width-wise direction of slab, and a plurality of exciting coils wound around the outer circumference of and about a length-wise axis of the iron core, wherein two-phase or three-phase alternating current is passed through the coils. The phases of the current in the exciting coils are distributed to impart a stirring flow to the molten that includes flow from the minor sides to the center of the slab or from one minor side to the other minor side with a reversing flow at predetermined time intervals.
US08191600B2 System and method for mounting a tire and a wheel
A system for mounting a tire and a wheel is disclosed. The system includes a robotic arm pivotably-connected to an end effector. The system also includes a tire-supporting portion including a support surface and a pair of wheel-engaging and tire-manipulating portions disposed upon the support surface. The pair of wheel-engaging and tire-manipulating portions includes a first wheel-engaging and tire-manipulating portion fixedly-disposed relative the support surface and a second wheel-engaging and tire-manipulating portion movably-disposed relative the support surface.
US08191599B2 Apparatus for laminating a solar module
The apparatus for laminating a solar module includes a press for pressing and heating the solar module including: a first press part and a second press part between which an evacuable cavity is formed; a bearing surface for the solar module disposed in the cavity; a heater being disposed in the cavity and being movable relative to the bearing surface so that the solar module can be pressed via the heater against the bearing surface. The press includes one or more sealing bodies being disposed in an intermediate space between the heater and the first press part and/or in an intermediate space between the heater and the second press part and being brought into contact with the heater and at least one of the press parts so that the cavity is divided into at least two chambers being separated from one another in an airtight manner.
US08191594B2 Wheel axle and drive or universal shaft for vehicles with a central tyre pressure supply
A wheel axle system for vehicles with a central tire pressure supply through a bore in the wheel axle. The invention includes a first wheel component removably coupled to a second wheel component, and a seal therebetween. The first wheel component includes a first mechanical valve, a coaxial circumferential groove, and an axial bore defined in the first component. The circumferential groove is located at a wheel side end of the axial bore. The second wheel component has a second mechanical valve, and a coaxial circumferential groove facing the circumferential groove of the first wheel component. The second mechanical valve co-acts with the first mechanical valve. The seal is interchangeable placed in the circumferential groove of the first and second wheel components, and acts as a coupling member between the first and second wheel components which revolve in relation to one another.
US08191592B2 Two-piece tire
A two-piece tire assembly 10 with a removable tread belt 12 for installing about the circumference of a tire carcass 14 is provided. The two-piece tire assembly 10 includes a tread belt 12 has a belt structure 90 having two or more belt layers 100, 110, 120, 130 each layer having one or more belts. The tread belt 12 has a radially inner surface 70 having one or more protruding circumferential ribs 72 or grooves 74 that fit into complementary grooves 18 or ribs 19 on an outer crown surface of the tire carcass 14. The tread belt 12 has a maximum axial belt width W at a radially inner surface. The carcass 14 has a maximum section width SW and ply line 20 having a maximum width P wherein W≦0.95P, BW≦5 0.85P and P
US08191590B2 Studless tire
A studless tire capable of suppressing a vehicle from staggering at the time of braking on icy and snow-covered roads, including a tread portion 2 provided with at least six block rows R1 to R4, wherein each block B is provided with sipes having a depth of at least 3.0 mm, and the block rows comprises at least two crown block rows CR disposed in a crown region Ac extending from the tire equator C as its center to have a width of 50% of the tread width TW, and at least two shoulder block rows Sh disposed on each axially outer side of the crown block rows CR, and wherein lateral grooves 4 provided in a block row are inclined in the opposite direction, with respect to the axial direction, to lateral grooves provided in an axially adjacent block row.
US08191587B2 Dosage-dispensing device with a tapping mechanism
A dosage-dispensing device for dosage material in powder- or paste form includes a holder device and at least one receiving device. At least one dosage-dispensing unit can be set into, as well as removed from, this receiving device. The dosage-dispensing device further includes at least one actuator whose action is directed at the receiving device. The receiving device is pivotably supported on the holder device with the freedom of performing a pendulous movement. The actuator can generate oscillatory pendulous movements of the receiving device.
US08191578B2 Rotary disc valve
A multi-port rotary disc valve adapted to allow fluid flow from at least one fluid source to a plurality of destinations, comprises a stator with fluid flow ports including a plurality of individual ports and at least one common port. Each of the individual ports is adapted for fluid communication with at least one of the destinations, and the one common port is adapted for fluid communication with the source. The individual ports are arranged in spaced apart relationship within an individual ports' stator sector having a stator sector angular length. The valve further comprises a rotor having at least a first, a second and a third rotor sector with channels arranged therein, being opened to the atmosphere or adapted to connect the fluid flow ports of the stator between them in a plurality of predetermined combinations. The first, second and third rotor sectors have a first, second and third rotor sector angular length, respectively, wherein the first and the second rotor sectors are spaced from each other and their angular length is at least equal to said stator sector angular length. The third rotor sector is located at least partially between the first and second rotor sectors.
US08191574B1 Visual indicator for air tank valve handle
A visual indicator assembly displays the state of an isolated stem control valve contained in a housing of an air tank. The visual indicator assembly comprises a rotatable handle member adapted for operative connection to the isolated stem control valve contained in the housing of the air tank. The rotatable handle member opens and closes the control valve without axial movement of the rotatable handle member. An “OFF” indicator is visible with the control valve in a closed condition, and an “ON” indicator is non-visible with the control valve in a closed condition. The “ON” indicator is movable to become visible and obscure the “OFF” indicator upon rotation of the handle member to adjust the control valve to an open condition.
US08191573B2 Pressure regulating valve with a direct damping action
The aim of the invention is to protect hydraulic assemblies, in particular those used for hydraulic longwall working in coal mining. To achieve this, pressure regulating valves (1) are used, the damping chambers of which (20) are located, configured and connected to the inlet side (5) in such a way that a system pressure constantly prevails in said chamber (20) and only drains in a restricted manner when the pressure in the regulating valve (1) is released, thus preventing the occurrence of detrimental vibrations.
US08191570B2 Bi-directional flapper valve
The invention provides a valve assembly comprising a conduit with a bore 1b for passage of fluid therethrough. The valve assembly also comprises a sealing member that is movable within the conduit to open and close the bore. The seal assembly has a valve seat on which the sealing member seals when the bore is closed, and wherein the valve seat is movable within the conduit. The invention also provides a valve assembly comprising a sealing member, a first valve seat for the sealing member, and a second valve seat for the sealing member. The valve assemblies can be resettable. The invention further provides a flapper valve assembly wherein the flapper is pivotable through more than 90° and a bi-directional flapper valve assembly.
US08191567B2 Mixer cartridge
A mixer cartridge for insertion into the basic body of a fitting contains a bottom making the water connection with the basic body of the fitting. This bottom is guided so as to be displaceable to some extent with respect to the cartridge housing. In the initial state, this bottom is positioned such that the seals present between it and the mixer system are compressed to an extent such that sufficient sealing-off takes place in the case of a low water pressure. It is arranged so as to be displaceable with respect to the cartridge housing in the direction of an increasing compression of these seals. Consequently, in the case of an increasing water pressure, a higher compression of the seals and therefore an increasing sealing action are made possible.
US08191558B2 Applicator for applying a composition to keratinous materials and including a source of vibration
The present invention relates to an applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to human keratinous materials or for adding finishing touches to makeup, the applicator comprising: a vibration source including a vibration generator that vibrates at a frequency lying in the range 1 Hz to 500 Hz, a handle, a stem carried by the handle and an applicator or finishing member for coming into contact with keratinous materials.
US08191556B2 Hair-supplementing and styling hairpiece
A hairpiece (35) for supplementing the natural hair of a wearer person (42). The hairpiece comprises a support net (10) formed by interconnected strands (11). The net is shaped to conform with the scalp of the wearer person. A plurality of bands of hair (36) are permanently secured spaced-apart, to the strands (11) of the support net (10). The bands of hair are disposed in a predetermined pattern to conceal the net while maintaining flexibility thereof. Independent attachment spring clips (20) are permanently secured in an upper portion of the support net (10) to removably secure the net in the wearer person's natural hair (43) wherein the net (10) and the attachment spring clips (20) are substantially non-visible in the natural hair to supplement and provide styling to the natural hair.
US08191552B2 Negative pressure, bi-directional nasal aerosol delivery
A method and apparatus for nasal drug delivery comprises a first tube in fluid communication with a means for generating a negative pressure and a second tube in fluid communication with an aerosol. The first tube is contacted with one nostril, the said second tube is contacted with the other nostril, and a negative pressure is applied to the first tube, producing a negative pressure within a nasal cavity and causing the aerosol to be drawn into the nasal passages and to deposit on an internal nasal surface.
US08191549B2 Tube collector with variable thermal conductivity of the coaxial tube
Collector tube for a solar collector, having an envelope tube, an absorber tube which is arranged within the envelope tube and into whose interior a heat carrier medium can be carried, characterized by an inner tubular element which is arranged within the absorber tube and has a thermal conductivity which is variable. Distributor segment for at least one collector tube which is designed in particular according to one of the preceding claims, having at least one first opening for supplying a heat carrier medium into the at least one collector tube, at least one second opening for carrying the heat carrier medium away from the at least one collector tube, a channel for supplying the heat carrier medium from outside the at least one collector tube into the at least one collector tube, a channel for carrying the heat carrier medium away from the collector tube to outside the at least one collector tube, with the supply channel and the output channel being arranged such that the distributor segment can be directly coupled to at least one further identical distributor segment in a heat carrier medium circuit.
US08191540B2 Ignition system
An ignition system (10) comprises a spark plug (12) having a first end (14) defining a spark gap (16) between a first electrode (18) and a second electrode (20). A transformer (46) comprising a primary winding 44 and a secondary winding (50) also forms part of the system. The secondary winding is connected in a secondary circuit to the first electrode 18 and the secondary winding has a resistance of less than 1 kΩ and an inductance of less than 0.25 H. A drive circuit (26) is connected to the primary winding.
US08191524B2 Valve-train assembly of an internal combustion engine
A valve-train assembly of an internal combustion engine is provided with a camshaft (1) that includes a carrier shaft (2), as well as a cam element (3) that can move on the carrier shaft between two axial positions and that has at least one cam group of directly adjacent cams (5, 6) with different cam lobes and an axial connecting link (8) constructed with a groove with outer guide walls (12, 13, 14, 15) for defining two intersecting connecting link pathways (9, 10), and with an activation pin (11) that can couple in the axial connecting link for moving the cam element in the direction of both connecting link pathways. In this way, the groove base of one connecting link pathway and the groove base of the other connecting link pathway should extend radially offset in height relative to each other, so that the connecting link pathway (9) with the radially lower groove base is also defined by inner guide walls (19, 20) that are formed by the offset in height.
US08191523B2 Rocker arm
A rocker arm includes a pair of side wall portions formed so as to face each other, an engaging portion connecting the pair of side wall portions and adapted to engage with a rocking support member arranged in an engine, and a sliding portion connecting the pair of side wall portions and being adapted to be in slidable contact with a stem front end portion of an engine valve. The engaging portion includes a board surface portion connecting the pair of side wall portions and a protruding portion protruding from the board surface portion toward the rocking support member. In the protruding portion, a spherical concave portion adapted to engage with a spherical protruding portion of the rocking support member is formed as a depression.
US08191518B2 Valvetrain control arrangement
A valvetrain control arrangement for an internal combustion engine. A fluid-working machine (1) has working chambers (3) of cyclically varying volume, each connected to a piston actuator (4) which is capable of moving an intake or exhaust valve in the internal combustion engine. The engine crankshaft (2) drives a crankshaft of the fluid-working machine at the same speed as the engine. Each working chamber (3) is linked to a low-pressure manifold (7) by a venting valve (6), the venting valve being normally open but electromagnetically closable by a signal from an electronic sequencing means (8) which operates in timed relationship to the engine crankshaft phase.
US08191515B2 V-type internal combustion engine including throttle valve device, and vehicle incorporating same
A V-type internal combustion engine includes a crankcase, a crankshaft disposed in the crankcase, and first and second banks operatively attached to the crankcase. The engine also includes a throttle body, an electric motor and a force-transmitting device arranged between the first and second banks. The force-transmitting device is disposed adjacent the front bank with respect to the throttle body. The force-transmitting device is disposed on a non-transmitting portion side opposite to a side where a timing mechanism is located with respect to a branch pipe of an intake air routing pipe, which supplies intake air into a cylinder adjacent to the timing mechanism of the first bank. An electric motor for operating the throttle valve is provided in the throttle body, and fuel injection valves are arranged between the banks.
US08191496B2 Pump horn
The pump horn includes a chamber that can be filled continuously and indefinitely by a push/pull slide that when pushed into the chamber forces pressurized air through an attachable member, a tube, a sound producing device, and an amplifying unit to produce a loud blast sound. The push/pull slide includes a screw in piece at the end which is secureable to the attachable member within the chamber for releasable securement of the push/pull slide. This allows compact carrying and storage.
US08191490B2 Disc planter for applying fertilisers and seeds to soil
A disc planter (10) for applying fertilizers and seeds to soil, and incorporating previously applied chemicals therein, the disc planter (10) having a frame (12) with a longitudinal forward direction of travel, and a plurality of rotatable tools mounted in series to the frame, the plurality of rotatable tools including a fertilizer furrow opening disc (16), a seed furrow opening disc (18), a soil throw controlling wheel (20), a soil closing wheel (22) and a soil disturbing star wheel (24), wherein the fertilizer furrow opening disc (16), seed furrow opening disc (18), and soil disturbing star wheel (24) are alternately oppositely inclined to one another in the forward direction of travel, the fertilizer furrow opening disc (16), seed furrow opening disc (18), soil throw controlling wheel (20), soil closing wheel (22) and soil disturbing star wheel (24) are longitudinally spaced and alternately laterally offset from one another in the forward direction of travel, the soil throw controlling wheel (20) is closely adjacent to and rearwardly overlapping the seed furrow opening disc (18), and the soil closing wheel (22) is laterally aligned with the seed furrow opening disc (18) in the forward direction of travel.
US08191487B2 Wall-mounted accessory holder
Accessory holders useful for facilitating the support and positional adjustment of secured accessories. More particularly, a positionally adjustable accessory holder for use with one or more accessories, preferably input or output devices, such as video displays, monitors, keyboards, keypads, laptops and the like. The accessory holder further allows for easy three-dimensional adjustment of two such devices to place the devices in relative positions more ergonomically desirable for a variety of users and workspaces, and features a counter-balance mechanism for balancing the weight of the secured accessories.
US08191483B2 Pillow block bearing for shaft driven conveyor system with self aligning feature
A rotating shaft drive system is configured to propel a load along a conveying path of an overhead conveyor system. A stationary frame extends along the conveying path and supports the rotating shaft drive system. A movable carriage is suspended from the stationary frame and engages with a rotating shaft of the shaft drive system to propel the carriage and the load. The rotating shaft comprises a plurality of shaft segments supported pillow blocks at each end of the rotating shaft segments, and the pillow blocks create a gap between adjacent shaft segments. The movable carriage has at least one canted driven roller configured to engage with adjacent rotating shaft segments and to create a helical loci of tractional engagement that provides sufficient drive force to propel the carriage and the load along the conveying path. The drive system is further configured to provide continuous propulsion as the canted driven roller moves across the gap between adjacent shaft segments.
US08191466B2 Rotary screw blancher with fluid passage and fluid agitation
A food processing apparatus including a tank having an inlet end for receiving food product and an outlet end for discharging food product, the tank having an inner wall defining a compartment and including a solid, imperforate wall portion, fluid being contained in the compartment, and a rotatable auger mounted in the compartment, the auger for advancing food product within the compartment from the inlet end toward the outlet end, the auger including flights having a flight wall with a radial edge, a clearance space being defined between the radial edge of the flights and the solid, imperforate wall portion of the inner wall. Flow of fluid through the clearance space may be inhibited. One of the inner wall and the flight wall may include a perforated wall portion. Flow of fluid between the first auger section and the second auger section may be provided through the perforated wall portion.
US08191460B2 Zero emissions reciprocating pump
A sealing system for a pump having a plunger includes a housing having an internal chamber adapted to receive a portion of the plunger. Primary and secondary seals are located within the internal chamber and adapted to sealingly engage the plunger. The primary seal communicates with the fluid being pumped. A barrier fluid chamber contains a barrier fluid in contact with the primary seal and the secondary seal. A pressure referencing device has an inlet port in communication with the pumped fluid and an outlet port providing fluid at a pressure magnitude equal to a peak pressure of the pumped fluid. A pressurizing device is in communication with the fluid at the peak pressure and the barrier fluid to maintain the barrier fluid pressure at a magnitude greater than the peak pressure of the pumped fluid such that the pumped fluid is restricted from leaking past the primary seal.
US08191459B2 High pressure pump, in particular for a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine
The high pressure pump includes a drive shaft with at least one cam or eccentric and at least one pump element with a pump piston driven in the reciprocating direction by the cam or eccentric on the driveshaft in a reciprocating motion. A support element is arranged between the pump piston and the cam or eccentric on the driveshaft and also a roller running on the cam or eccentric is mounted to rotate therein. A support for the roller in the direction of rotation is arranged adjacent to the same in the direction of the rotational axis of the roller. The roller and/or the support include a surface with high wear resistance at least in the contact region between the roller and the support.
US08191457B2 Actuating mechanism for fluid displacement and pressurizing device
A fluid displacement device, particularly for use of the device to pressurize balloon catheters, or the like. The device includes a plunger which is displaceable through a housing, and an actuating mechanism which engages the plunger. The actuating mechanism includes a nut member that is biased into engagement with a threaded portion of the plunger. The device has a press-to-release feature wherein the plunger is instantly releaseable by simply depressing a toggle lever of the nut member to overcome a restorative spring force. Subsequently, the plunger can be translated using macro movements (i.e., by pushing or pulling the plunger).
US08191456B2 Method of driving an hydraulic actuator by means of a pressure controlled proportioning solenoid valve
A method of driving a hydraulic actuator provided with a pressure-controlled proportioning solenoid valve; the method includes the steps of: determining a first open-loop contribution according to a pressurized oil flow rate which crosses the proportioning solenoid valve and according to the desired load pressure inside the actuation chamber; determining a second open-loop contribution according to the desired position of the spool of the proportioning solenoid valve; determining a third closed-loop contribution according to the difference between a desired value of the position of the mobile piston and a real value of the position of the mobile piston; and calculating a desired electric driving current value of the proportioning solenoid valve by means of an algebraic sum of the three contributions.
US08191455B2 Pneumatic actuating drive having integrated electropneumatic position control
An electropneumatic actuator system for operating assemblies of an internal combustion engine includes a housing, in which an actuator is movably accommodated, which in turn is configured to be hollow and includes an aeration channel and a deaeration channel. A control slide valve is assigned to the actuator which is operated by a magnetic coil and which aerates, deaerates or closes a pressure chamber of the housing as a function of the relative position of the actuator.
US08191436B2 Apparatus for collecting marine deposits
Provided is an apparatus for collecting marine deposits. The apparatus includes: a piston corer for collecting a deep part of marine deposits; a corer for collecting a surface part of marine deposits; and a trigger body connecting the corer for collecting a surface part of marine deposits and the piston corer for collecting a deep part of marine deposits to each other while being maintained at a laterally set interval. The apparatus for collecting marine deposits can greatly save costs consumed to collect marine deposits and increase accuracy of collecting the marine deposits.
US08191434B2 Device and method for temperature compensation testing of digital load cells
A device and method for effectuating the temperature compensation testing of digital load cells. The device uses conductive heat transfer to establish and maintain the temperature of the load cell(s) during testing. The device may include a vessel into which one or more load cells to be tested are placed. Temperature control of the load cells may be accomplished by circulating a temperature controlled fluid through the vessel. The vessel containing the one or more load cells may then be placed in a load application device that applies a load(s) to the one or more load cells during testing. Readings from the one or more load cells are used to establish a temperature compensation factor for each load cell tested. In other embodiments, temperature control of the load cells may be accomplished by placing the load cells in contact with a solid heat transfer element(s).
US08191433B2 Method for manufacturing fabric strain sensors
A fabric strain sensor (10) for measuring in-plane unidirectional strain, the sensor (10) comprising a mixture (20) of electrically conductive particles or fibers and an elastomer matrix, applied onto an elastic fabric substrate (30).
US08191422B2 Copying apparatus
There is provided a copying apparatus that copies a workpiece, including a shoe that comes into contact with a portion of the workpiece to be copied, and a first swiveling unit that swivels with the shoe in an arc pattern around a point, as a swiveling center, on a plane where the shoe comes into contact with the portion of the workpiece to be copied.
US08191421B2 Digital ballistic impact detection system
Methods and devices for a miniature, ultra-low power impact recorder for detecting, quantifying and recording the energy of an explosive blast or ballistic projectile impact. In one embodiment, the impact recorder can included a sensor comprised of an array of electromechanical resonators that is sensitive to the vibrations produced in selected, discrete frequency ranges that approximate the spectral signature characteristics of the shockwave resulting from the ballistic impact event, even after traveling through impacted material or body tissues.
US08191418B2 Method and measuring system for determining and/or monitoring an aggregate state change of a measured medium on a thermal, flow measuring device
A method for determining and/or monitoring aggregate state changes on a thermal, flow measuring device of at least a first part of a measured medium, wherein, as a result of the temperature of the medium being measured, as a result means of the chemical composition of the medium being measured and as a result of the partial pressure of the at least first part of the medium being measured and/or as a result of the total pressure of the medium being measured, at least one phase boundary line of the at least first part of the medium being measured is ascertained. At least a first measurement signal is provided from a temperature difference between a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor of the thermal, flow measuring device and/or from a heating power supplied the medium being measured, wherein, in the case of a state of the at least first part of the medium being measured in the region of the phase boundary line of the first part of the medium being measured, disturbances of predetermined type in the measurement signal are detected as aggregate state changes on the thermal flow device of the at least first part of the medium being measured.
US08191417B2 Flow rate measuring apparatus including a recess for changing air flow direction
An inflow port and an outflow port of a bypass passage have openings on a front surface near a projecting end and on a bottom surface, respectively, of a bypass passage forming member. A recess portion is disposed on the front surface of the bypass passage forming member on a circuit housing portion side of the inflow port so as to extend at a predetermined depth over an entire region in a longitudinal direction of a short side of a rectangular cross section of the bypass passage forming member.
US08191414B2 Sensor
A sensor including a sensor element including a plurality of electrode terminals, terminal metal fittings, a terminal surrounding member, and lead wires connected to respective terminal metal fittings. The terminal surrounding member is divided into a front side surrounding member and a rear side surrounding member in the front-rear direction, and a rear end face of the front side surrounding member abuts a front end face of the rear side surrounding member. At least one of the terminal metal fittings includes a protruding piece portion protruding in a lateral direction and held between the rear end face of the front side surrounding member and the front end face of the rear side surrounding member.
US08191411B2 Device and method for monitoring a fuel metering system
A method and device for monitoring a fuel metering system, in which fuel is pumped from a low-pressure zone into a high-pressure zone. The pressure in the high-pressure zone is detected. An error is recognized on the basis of the pressure variation in the high-pressure zone. The type of error is recognized on the basis of the shape of a pressure drop curve. The variation of the pressure quantity over time is approximated using a function such as the hyperbolic function. The type of error is recognized on the basis of the quantity characterizing the function.
US08191410B2 Mechanical drive train for testing full scale compressor rigs and gas turbines
A mechanical drive train for testing a full scale compressor rig is disclosed. The drive train can include an electric motor, a gear box, and a gas turbine. The compressor rig is coupled to the drive train between the gear box and gas turbine. The drive train can further include a torque converter for transferring torque from the electric motor to the compressor rig. The drive train is configured to test a full scale compressor rig over the entire speed and load operating range, allowing for full compressor mapping from choke to stall at full load, part load (power turn down) and partial speed conditions. The drive train can also be used to test a compressor rig or gas turbine over the full range of operability for the compressor rig or gas turbine without having to connect the gas turbine to the power grid at the power generation site.
US08191409B2 Valve failure detection
A method and arrangement for detecting failure of an actuated component, particularly a valve. The method comprises determining a calibration step response and an in-use step response for the actuated component, determining any difference between the responses and comparing the difference to a pre-determined threshold indicating failure.
US08191398B1 Vapor generator safety release device
A vapor generator safety relief device for use in a surety system includes a conical flask, manifold, bubbler, and relief valve. The manifold includes a first chamber for inlet gas and a second chamber for outlet gas. The first chamber comprises an inlet port, an inlet tube, and a relief valve housing. The second chamber comprises an outlet tube and an outlet port. The bubbler is confluent with the inlet tube and disposed within the flask.
US08191387B2 System and method for controlling temperature in a forehearth
Systems and methods are provided for controlling temperature in a glass forehearth. In one implementation, a system includes at least one burner disposed in said forehearth, a manifold coupled to said burner, a combustion fuel supply coupled to said burner, a combustion air blower for delivering ambient air under pressure to said manifold, and a controller coupled to said burner for controlling operation of said burner. The system may include a temperature sensor operatively coupled downstream of the blower for providing to the controller a temperature signal indicative of temperature of air delivered to the manifold by the blower. The controller may be responsive to the temperature signal for controlling operation of the burner as a function of current temperature of air fed to the manifold. Operation of the burner may also be controlled as a function of an average air temperature over a preceding time duration.
US08191386B2 Distillation method and apparatus
A distillation apparatus and method in which first and second compressed streams are formed from a compressed feed stream, for example, compressed air. The first compressed stream is fully cooled within a main heat exchanger so that it is substantially condensed. The second compressed stream is partly cooled within the main heat exchanger and then introduced into a turboexpander at a temperature such that the turboexpander exhaust stream is superheated. Part of the first compressed stream is mixed with the exhaust stream to produce a combined stream that is no more than 10° C. above saturation temperature at the pressure of the exhaust stream. The combined stream is introduced into a distillation column unit to produce one or more products that are enriched in components of the feed to be separated. In such manner the turboexpansion can occur at a higher temperature and with increased refrigerating effect.
US08191371B2 Drive train, particularly for motor vehicles
The invention relates to a drivetrain, in particular for motor vehicles, having an internal combustion engine, comprising an output shaft; having a turbocharger, comprising an exhaust gas turbine, which is situated in the exhaust gas stream of the internal combustion engine, and a compressor driven by the exhaust gas turbine, which is situated in an air channel leading to the internal combustion engine in order to compress air for the internal combustion engine; the exhaust gas turbine additionally having a drive connection to an auxiliary system or to the output shaft of the internal combustion engine or being switchable into such a connection, in order to transmit drive power alternately or simultaneously from the exhaust gas turbine to the compressor or the output shaft and the auxiliary system; and a hydrodynamic clutch being situated in the additionally provided drive connection, comprising a bladed primary wheel and a bladed secondary wheel, which implement a working chamber with one another, which is fillable or filled with a working medium, in order to transmit drive power hydrodynamically from the primary wheel to the secondary wheel, and the primary wheel has a drive connection to the exhaust gas turbine, and the secondary wheel has a drive connection to the auxiliary system or the output shaft. The invention is characterized in that the hydrodynamic clutch is switched between the exhaust gas turbine and the compressor.
US08191369B2 Turbo-charger surge detection
A method of turbo-charger surge detection may include the steps of measuring a rate of air flow through a turbo-charger compressor, measuring a temperature of the air flow, calculating a standard mass flow rate of the air flow at the rate and the temperature, measuring a pressure ratio across the turbo-charger compressor, calculating a surge mass flow rate at a surge line of the compressor at the pressure ratio, comparing the standard mass flow rate to the surge mass flow rate, and reducing an EGR flow or reducing the pressure ratio by opening a vane of the compressor if the standard mass flow rate is lower than the surge mass flow rate.
US08191357B2 Method for adjusting the metered additions of reducing agent for selective catalytic reduction
A method for use in conjunction with an exhaust gas post-treatment system for metering an ammonia-releasing reducing agent into the exhaust gas stream of an internal combustion engine installed in a motor vehicle and operating with excess air. A control unit meters the quantity of reducing agent as a function of a stored model and, during the operation of the internal combustion engine, determines, by comparison of a value proportional to the nominal emission or the nominal conversion stored in the control unit of the internal combustion engine for the associated operating point of the internal combustion engine and/or of the exhaust gas post-treatment system with a value proportional to the actual emission or the actual conversion metrologically determined by the control unit.
US08191356B2 Liquid injector assembly with a flanged connector connection
A system for injecting from an injector into a duct of an engine system is provided. The system may include a first flange on a duct connection side, a second flange on an injector connection side, a stand-off separating the first flange from the second flange to form an air gap therebetween, and a seal offset from at least one of the first and the second flanges and located within the airgap and between the first flange and the second flange.
US08191351B2 Insensitive rocket motor
There is disclosed a solid fuel rocket motor including a center-perforated solid fuel grain. The solid fuel grain may be adapted to burn outwardly from a center surface facing the center perforation when ignited by a primary igniter during a normal mode of operation. The solid fuel grain may be further adapted to burn longitudinally from an end face when ignited by a secondary igniter during a safety mode of operation.
US08191344B2 Crop deflector for ends of draper belt of flexible draper header
The otherwise open end of the outboardmost belt guard over the interface between the flexible cutterbar assembly and flexible draper assembly of a harvesting header is closed by a deflector to prevent the ingress of crop residue into the void region defined beneath the overhanging belt guards. In this manner residue is prevented from migrating into the interior of the draper belt of the draper assembly.
US08191343B1 Systems and methods for cooling a controller assembly
Apparatus and methods for cooling controller assemblies for electric utility vehicles are disclosed. Auxiliary implements powered by electric motors onboard a utility vehicle create airflow that is captured and directed to provide increased ambient airflow across heat sinks used to dissipate heat from heat generating components. Airflow across heated surfaces is further created by vehicle movement and vacuum pressure. Fins and other heat dissipating architecture are employed. Features of the cooling systems enable increased controller assembly functionality and/or decreased controller assembly package size.
US08191338B2 Inserting apparatus and method for placing a product in an envelope using such an inserting apparatus
An inserting apparatus for placing a product in an envelope is provided with a discharge path. The discharge path is provided with a skewed roller conveyer which comprises a plurality of rollers arranged at an angle relative to the discharge conveying direction, to align the envelopes along a stop extending in the conveying direction of the roller conveyer. The discharge path is provided with at least one pressing device extending above the roller conveyor to press envelopes towards the roller conveyor, the pressing device comprising at least one array of vertically moveable, rotatable balls. The roller conveyor is provided with at least one endless transport belt for the envelopes, extending opposite the at least one pressing device, the endless belt extending substantially transversally with respect to the rollers.
US08191335B2 Framing guide
A multi-sided framing guide includes a stud side with stud pockets, a nail side with nailing windows, and an intermediate side adjoining the stud and nail sides.
US08191333B2 Panel, in particular a floor panel
A method of forming a panel having a core of a wood material or wood material/plastic mixture and a top side and an underside is provided. The method includes forming a profile corresponding to one another on at least a first side edge and a second side edge lying opposite one another. The method further includes forming a hook connection with an upper locking section having a hook element and a lower locking section having a hook element which effects the locking in the horizontal direction, and forming at least one spring element movable in the horizontal direction which effects the locking in the vertical direction (V). The at least one spring element is free in the direction of the first side edge lying opposite by an essentially vertical slot. In the method of manufacturing, the panel is moved at a constant speed when the essentially vertical slot is formed.
US08191329B2 Apparatus for connecting panels
Disclosed herein are connectors for panels. In one embodiment a panel connector comprises, a connector comprising a rib-hinging geometry, wherein the rib-hinging geometry comprises living hinges, and wherein the rib-hinging geometry is capable of expanding in area. In another embodiment, a panel assembly is disclosed. The panel assembly comprises, a connector comprising a rib-hinging geometry, wherein the rib-hinging geometry comprises living hinges, a socket comprising an internal geometry, wherein the connector can be assembled to the internal geometry, and wherein the rib-hinging geometry is capable of expanding in area.
US08191326B2 Decorative room panel
A decorative panel is manufactured for installation on a surface of a room. The decorative panel is formed from a material that can be shaped having a decorative portion, two female mounting portions and two male portions. The female portions have punched holes for fastening the panels directly to a surface, and the male portions of an adjacent panel are positioned into the female portions to partially hold the adjacent panel and to obscure from view the punched holes and fastening hardware. The panel design and installation method allows the decorative panels to be attached directly to a building material such as sheet rock without any intervening supporting structure.
US08191318B2 Prefabricated resin house
A prefabricated resin house includes a peripheral wall 10 achieved by assembling a plurality of peripheral wall structural members 11-19 constituted of resin and a roof 30 that is formed by assembling a plurality of roof structural members 31-39 constituted of resin and is placed on top of the peripheral wall 10.
US08191315B1 Eavestrough cover
A combination of an eavestrough and a cover therefore, the eavestrough having a bottom wall, a rear wall and a front wall, the front wall terminating in a segment extending outwardly and downwardly from a distal end of the front wall. The cover overlies the eavestrough and has a side structure adjacent the front wall which forms a recess to receive the segment of the front eavestrough wall which extends downwardly and outwardly from a distal end thereof.
US08191312B2 Automatic revolving door having foldable rotary wings
An automatic revolving door having a plurality of foldable revolving wings, in which each revolving wing is disposed at a lower side of a horizontal plate which is driven by a driving motor, and an upper outer side of each revolving wing is coupled with hinge to the horizontal plate, and an upper inner side of each revolving wing is slidably coupled to a cross bar attached to the horizontal plate, and each revolving wing is pivotally moveable toward outer wall members of the door to provide a wide opening between the outer wall members.
US08191311B2 Opening and closing apparatus
An opening and closing apparatus having an opening and closing body, a drive portion, a control portion, and a detecting device is disclosed. The detecting device has a sensor portion for detecting the capacitance between the sensor portion and an object that is in the proximity of the sensor portion or is contacting the sensor portion. The detecting device detects that the object is in the proximity of the sensor portion or is contacting the sensor portion based on the capacitance detected by the sensor portion. If the detecting device detects contact of the object with the sensor portion when the opening and closing body is not being moved, the control portion controls the drive portion to start opening the opening and closing body. If the detecting device detects that the object is in the proximity of the sensor portion when the opening and closing body is being closed, the control portion controls the drive portion to stop or reverse the movement of the opening and closing body.
US08191291B2 Wear member for excavating equipment
A wear member for attachment along the digging edge of excavating equipment that includes ridges formed along its front working end. As the front end wears away, the tips of the ridges along the front of the wear member project forward to define a serrated penetrating edge. A serrated front edge is able to more easily cut into and through the ground. The ridges may be arranged in a generally axial direction along the front working end to present a reduced surface area to contact the ground for easier penetration. The ridges provide the front working end with sufficient rigidity and strength without unduly enlarging the surface area of the penetrating edge that initiates contact with the ground.
US08191284B2 Footwear cooling system
An article of footwear including a cooling system is disclosed. The article of footwear includes a sole system. The sole system includes a first compression chamber and a second compression chamber, each configured to compress during motion. The compression of the first compression chamber and the second compression chamber creates a pressure imbalance that facilitates the exchange of air throughout the article of footwear by means of apertures disposed along the upper sole portion, and channels configured to transfer air to the apertures.
US08191282B2 Device and method for obtaining energy carriers from moist biomass
A device for obtaining energy carriers from moist biomass includes a dehydration device for mechanically pre-dehydrating the biomass, and a drying step for post-dehydrating the pre-dehydrated biomass via the addition of heat. The dehydration device includes a first dehydration step and a second dehydration step, which is combined with the drying step to form a single assembly.
US08191278B2 Hinged tape measure
A combination of a retractable tape measure assembly with folding front section (s) includes a housing assembly and a reel rotatably mounted in the housing assembly. An elongated blade formed of a ribbon of metal having one end connected to the reel is constructed and arranged with respect to the housing assembly to extend from a position tangential to the reel outwardly through a spaced opening in the housing assembly. A coil spring formed of a ribbon of metal and pivoting front section (s) made of same metal has a construction and arrangement between the housing assembly and the reel and at the pivot points to rotate the reel in the housing assembly smoothly in a direction to wind up the elongated blade when extending outwardly of the housing assembly opening in a normal concavo-convex cross-section configuration onto the reel. A blade holding assembly is constructed and arranged to be manually actuated to hold the blade in any position of extension. The blade with, thickness, height of concavo-convex curvature sufficient to enable the blade to stand out. The pivot points of these sections comprises a holding system to lock a desired angle between sections with addition of a wedge pinch pressure adding a greater hold on the pivot point.
US08191277B2 Tape measure anchoring accessory
The present invention relates to a measuring tool having a substantially puck-shaped body having a top surface and a bottom surface. The tool also includes an elongated slot formed in the top surface and a fastener adjacent the bottom surface. The elongated slot is adapted to receive a portion of a tape measure. The fastener is operable to secure the measuring tool to the underlying work piece. Optionally, the fastener is a magnet.
US08191275B2 Adjustable square device
The disclosure depicts an adjustable square device with a body having a substantially uniform cross-section at planes orthogonal to a longitudinal axis, the cross-section having a generally rectangular outline. A first groove extends inwardly from a first end of the body and oriented generally parallel a bottom surface of the body. A second groove extends inwardly from the first end and is orthogonal the first groove, the first and second grooves intersecting at a vertex. The device also has a tunnel extending from the vertex to a second end of the body, and a blade slidably engagable into one of the first or second grooves.
US08191273B2 Positioning apparatus
With regard to accurate determination of component size and dimension it is important to utilize positioning apparatus which can be readily and smoothly manipulated in order to determine dimension {acute over (ω)}. Generally a stylus is presented upon a carriage associated with a column is utilized for displacement between positions on a component surface. By displacement of the stylus and associated electronic devices it is possible to determine accurately the dimensions of a component. Displacement must be smooth and accurate as well as repeatable.
US08191268B2 Reciprocating pruning saw
An apparatus for the cutting of tree limbs includes an extensible drive shaft that is detachably-attachable at one end to a portable electric drill and is secured to a housing at an opposite end thereof. The housing converts the rotary motion that is supplied by the drill into reciprocating motion of a saw blade and it disposes the saw blade at an angle with respect to the drive shaft that is slightly less than 90 degrees. An extensible two-part cylindrical outer sleeve covers the drive shaft and is detachably-attached at one end thereof to the drill and at an opposite end to the housing. A hook is provided in the housing and is used to grab and urge severed limbs where desired. An optional clamping mechanism is attached to the housing and is used initially to urge the blade and the limb toward each other during cutting and then to retain the limb proximate the housing after it has been cut for controlled placement and safe release of the limb.
US08191264B2 Shaving apparatus
Shaving apparatus having at least one cutting unit with an external cutting member and a movable internal cutting member. An energy-dissipating system is provided between mutually movable parts of the internal or an external cutting member to reduce the bouncing effect between the internal and external cutting member after cutting a hair. Such an energy-dissipating system may for example be an element with visco-elastic properties.
US08191263B2 Separable lubrication
A shaving implement which includes a handle. The shaving cartridge includes a frame and a separable lubrication. The separable lubrication includes a shaving aid. The shaving cartridge is pivotable relative to the handle between a neutral position (see e.g., FIG. 1) and a rearward position (see e.g, FIG. 2), and the separable lubrication is pivotable relative to the frame between a forward position (see e.g., FIGS. 1 and 2) and a locked position. During normal shaving, the separable lubrication is rotated toward the forward position and can pivot relative to the handle with the frame. When the separable lubrication is in the locked position, the separable lubrication is located in a position away from the skin during normal shaving and the pivoting of the frame relative to the handle is generally limited, or altogether eliminated.
US08191255B2 Method for manufacturing wind turbine blade with an integrated lightning conductor
A method is provided for manufacturing a wind turbine rotor blade in which the blade is formed as a laminated structure by laying a composite material of fiber reinforcement material and/or core material in a mold defining the shape of the blade; evacuating the mold after laying the composite material; introducing a liquid polymer into the evacuated mold and wetting the composite material; curing the liquid polymer after the composite material has been wetted; and removing the mold after curing the liquid. At least one lightning conductor is integrated into the composite material before wetting it with the liquid polymer. Moreover, a wind turbine rotor blade made from a single laminated structure is provided with at least one lightning conductor is integrated into the laminated structure.
US08191253B2 Method for fitting the rotor of a wind generator
Method of mounting the rotor of a wind turbine (11) comprising the following steps: lifting and mounting the rotor hub (15) on the nacelle (21); lifting and mounting the rotor blades (25, 27, 29) on the rotor hub (15) using a lifting device (17) cooperating with a winch (19) on ground, the mounting of each blade being made after rotating the rotor hub (15) for having the connecting part (25′, 27′, 29′) with each blade (25, 27, 29) in front of it when it is lifted, the lifting device (17) being installed in a fixed position in the rotor hub (15) and comprising, in a preferred embodiment, a bracket (31) mounted on the rotor hub front (16) and a hook block (33) mounted on said bracket (31) with a cable (35) connected to said winch (19). The invention also refers to a method of dismounting a rotor blade.
US08191250B2 Method for processing terminal treatment of braid of a shield wire
For providing a shield wire, in which efficiency of processing terminal treatment of braid can be improved, and an apparatus for processing terminal treatment of braid, an apparatus for processing terminal treatment of braid of a shield wire includes a first hold unit holding a top of the braid covering the electric wire, a second hold unit holding a far-side of the braid, a push unit pushing the top toward the far-side so as to fold a part of braid from the top to form an overlap portion, and a forming unit forming the overlap portion into a cone shape, in which the top is located. The formed overlap portion is clamped by a set of inner and outer ring brackets.
US08191248B2 Method for making an embedded structure
An embedded structure of circuit board is provided. The embedded structure of the present invention includes a dielectric layer, a pad opening disposed in the dielectric layer, and a via disposed in the pad opening and in the dielectric layer, wherein the outer surface of the dielectric layer has a substantially even surface.
US08191247B2 Electronic board, method of manufacturing the same, and electronic device
An electronic board includes a substrate on which is formed an electronic circuit having a connection terminal; a stress-relaxation layer formed on the substrate; a rearrangement wiring for the connection terminal disposed at a top side of the stress-relaxation layer; and a capacitor. The capacitor has a first electrode that is disposed between the substrate and the stress-relaxation layer, a second electrode that is disposed at the top side of the stress-relaxation layer, and a dielectric material that is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The first electrode and/or the second electrode has a corrugated surface facing the dielectric material.
US08191246B1 Method of manufacturing a plurality of miniaturized spring contacts
A method of manufacturing an array of miniaturized spring contacts is disclosed. The invention teaches a symmetric design of the spring contact with two anchoring traces at each side of the spring contact, and teaches a method of forming the spring contact with a continuous, zero-stress core member throughout the entire body of the spring contact; besides these, the invention enables easy manufacturing of integrated fine pitch spring contact arrays, allows fabrication of such spring contact arrays with extremely uniform spring height and good electrical and mechanical properties.
US08191242B1 Punch-down device
A punch-down device includes a housing, a driving mechanism, and at least one punch-down member. The housing forms therein hollow channels. The driving mechanism includes a rotation shaft and at least one rotary wheel, which is connected and supported by the rotation shaft at a top portion of the housing. The rotation shaft has an end extending outside the housing to form a coupling section. Each of the rotary wheels has a surface forming two tracks and two pegs. The two pegs of one rotary wheel are received in the two tracks of an adjacent one of the rotary wheels. The punch-down member is received in the hollow channels to correspond to the rotary wheels and be driven to move by the rotary wheels. The punch-down member has lower ends forming conductor depression sections. As such, the punch-down device carries out an operation of punching down and depressing conductors, whereby the efficiency of punch-down operation is increased and the operation is easy and reliable positioning is achieved.
US08191237B1 Method for providing a structure in a magnetic transducer
A method for providing a structure in a magnetic transducer is described. The method includes performing a first planarization that exposes a top surface of the magnetic transducer. This first planarization also terminates before a portion of a first planarization buffer layer is removed. The method also includes providing a second planarization buffer layer after the first planarization is performed. The second planarization buffer layer is above the first planarization buffer layer. The method also includes performing a second planarization. This second planarization does not completely remove the second planarization buffer layer. The method also includes performing a third planarization terminating after the first planarization buffer layer is exposed and before the first planarization buffer layer is completely removed.
US08191235B2 Method of producing magnetoresistance effect element
The method of the present invention provides a magnetoresistance effect element, which is capable of having a high MR ratio, corresponding to high density recording and being suitably applied to a magnetoresistance device even though a barrier layer is thinned to reduce resistance of the magnetoresistance effect element. The method of producing the magnetoresistance effect element, which includes the barrier layer composed of an oxidized metal, a first magnetic layer contacting one of surfaces of the barrier layer and a second magnetic layer contacting the other surface thereof, comprises the steps of: laminating the barrier layer on the first magnetic layer with using a target composed of the oxidized metal; and laminating the second magnetic layer on the barrier layer. The barrier layer is annealed before laminating the second magnetic layer thereon.
US08191233B2 Head stack assembly incorporating device, magnetic disk device manufacturing device, and method of manufacturing magnetic disk device
According to one embodiment, a head stack assembly incorporating device connects a head stack assembly to the base of a magnetic disk device by screwing a connector on the bottom surface of the rotational shaft of the head stack assembly and a connector on the base of the magnetic device together. The head stack assembly incorporating device includes a chuck and a driving-force transmitter. The chuck pinches the rotational shaft of the head stack assembly from the upper surface of the head stack assembly to be fixed to the rotational shaft. The chuck is rotatable around the central axis of the rotational shaft. The driving-force transmitter transmits a rotational force to the chuck.
US08191231B2 Method for manufacturing antenna
A method for manufacturing an antenna includes steps as follows. First, a substrate is provided, wherein a surface of the substrate has an antenna region. Then, the surface of the substrate is electroless plated with a metal medium, so that the surface is covered with the metal medium. Then, the metal medium is covered with a resist. Then, a portion of the resist in the antenna region is removed. Then, the antenna region is electroplated with metal material to form an antenna main body. Then, a remaining portion of the resist is removed, and excluding a portion of the metal medium in the antenna region, the other portion of the metal medium is also removed from the substrate.
US08191230B2 Method for making radio frequency (RF) antenna containing element
Methods of making an radio frequency (RF) antenna containing element are provided. The methods comprise providing a metal foil laminate bonded to a carrier layer. The metal foil laminate can have a metal foil layer bonded to a reinforcement layer. The methods further comprise cutting an antenna pattern through the metal foil laminate to the carrier layer, and removing an undesired matrix portion of the reinforced metal foil laminate to provide a metal foil laminate antenna disposed on the carrier layer.
US08191225B2 Subterranean screen manufacturing method
A screen that conforms to the borehole shape after expansion is disclosed. The screen comprises a compliant outer layer that takes the borehole shape on expansion. The outer layer is formed having holes to permit production flow. The material that is selected preferably swells with prolonged contact to well fluids to further close off annular gaps after expansion. In an alternative embodiment, the screen is not expanded and the swelling of the material alone closes off annular gaps. The outer sleeve is placed over the screen and the screen is placed on a base pipe and initially expanded from within the base pipe to secure the components of the screen assembly for running downhole, while minimizing or eliminating any welding among the layers. A variety of expansion tools can be used to expand the screen or screens downhole.
US08191224B2 Fastener manufacturing
A fastener has a metallic member and a nonmetallic cap member. The metallic member has a head and a shaft. The shaft has a first end at the head, a distal second end, and an externally threaded portion. The metallic member further has a projection extending from the head opposite the shaft. The cap member is mated to the head opposite the shaft and retained by the projection.
US08191218B2 Deck seam with reduced selvage
A method is provided for forming a welt in a single sheet of coverstock by folding and sewing. A second method is provided for forming a welt adjacent a seam formed by sewing two sheets of coverstock together, the method requiring less selvage from one of the sheets.
US08191208B2 Load securing ratchet with anchor attachment system
An anchor attachment system is provided for use with tensioning device for tensioning lines, particularly belts or webs. The anchor attachment system releasably secures an anchoring line to one end of the tensioning device. Embodiments of the anchor attachment system employ a pin, a cross-pin, a spring element, and a locking cam working in cooperation to secure the pin to first and/or second ends of the tensioning device.
US08191205B2 Door hinge
An example hinge includes a hinge pin extending along an axis and a first knuckle for receiving the hinge pin. The first knuckle is rotatable about the axis. A second knuckle for receiving the hinge pin and is rotatable about the axis. At least one bearing limits relative rotation between the first hinge knuckle and the hinge pin. The example hinge assembly may include a tolerance ring between the hinge pin and the first knuckle to urge the bearing away from the axis. An example method of producing a hinge includes the steps of permitting a first hinge plate to move relative a hinge pin and limiting movement of a second hinge plate relative a hinge pin. The method biases a bearing adjacent the hinge pin to limit movement of the second hinge plate relative the hinge pin.
US08191202B2 Mobile vacuum apparatus for collection of liquid or semi-liquid materials
The apparatus comprises a vacuum tank with a front-mounted collection means thereunder The collection means is a V-shaped scraper with a height adjustable suction inlet at the apex thereof. The collection means has a pair of laterally adjustable pivoting wings for varying its width to correspond to that of an alley or gutter. The suction inlet may be equipped with a snorkel to introduce a small quantity of air as an aid in entraining thick-consistency materials. A blower vac is used to both draw air into and blow air through the vacuum tank. A valve means comprising a pair of oppositely oriented check valves is used to alternate flow paths between a lowered rearward exhaust during collection and an elevated intake during tank discharge.
US08191201B2 Connection element
The invention is based on a connection element (16, 44, 50, 66, 74, 80) for connecting a wiper blade (10), which has at least one spring rail (14) as a supporting element, to a wiper arm in an articulated manner, with the connection element (16, 44, 50, 66, 74, 80) having claws (22, 46, 52) which are integrally formed on the side of a base part (18) and, in the mounted state, surround and retain the spring rail (14) by the base part (18) being supported on a part of a wiper rubber (12) which is arranged between the spring rail (14) and the base part (18, 56, 68, 70). The invention proposes that the connection element (16, 44, 50, 66, 74, 80) has means (28, 58, 60, 68, 72, 76, 78, 82, 84) with which the surface pressure between the base part (18, 56, 68, 70) and the wiper rubber (12) is locally increased.
US08191200B2 Wiper blade
Disclosed herein is a wiper blade coupled to or configured to be coupled to a wiper arm of a vehicle to wipe a glass surface of a windshield. The wiper blade includes a wiper strip configured to contact the glass surface, a frame coupled to the wiper strip, a bracket disposed at a center of the frame and joined to the wiper arm, and a joint disposed between the frame and the bracket to secure the bracket to the frame.
US08191193B2 Extension section for ramp platform
An extension section for a ramp platform generally includes a first sloping portion including a lip releasably that is receivable by a lip receiving channel, wherein the first sloping portion includes a stepped surface configured to interface with a transition plate, and a second sloping portion oriented with respect to the first sloping section such that the first and second sloping portions converge to form an obtuse angle at their juncture.
US08191191B2 Apparatus and method for lifting a mattress
A mattress lift apparatus is provided for insertion between a mattress and an underlying support structure, such as a box spring. The mattress lift apparatus elevates a portion of the mattress so that bed linens may be tucked between the mattress and the underlying support structure. A continuous loop is formed by a base member, an incline member, a transition member and a handle member, wherein the continuous loop provides structural integrity to the mattress lift apparatus. An aperture is formed within the continuous loop, including along an inside portion of the handle member to enable the handle member to be gripped. In one embodiment, the handle member includes a substantially semi-circular shape. In another embodiment, at least one support rib is positioned in the aperture to mechanically couple the base member and at least one of the inclined member and the transition member.
US08191175B1 Cap visor protector
A visor protector for caps having a visor including a periphery having a front edge, a pair of lateral edges, and upper and lower sides. The visor protector includes a flexible body having an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion of the flexible body meets the lower portion of the flexible body at a leading edge of the flexible body. The upper portion of the flexible body is receivable on the upper side of the visor, and the lower portion of the flexible body is receivable on the lower side of the visor. The upper and lower portions of the flexible body cooperate to define a substantial U-shape, wherein the visor is receivable between the upper and lower portions such that the leading edge of the flexible body is substantially aligned with the front edge of the visor. The visor protector includes a pair of spring clips that each have a first leg that is engageable with the upper portion of the flexible body and a second leg that is engageable with the lower portion of the flexible body. The spring clips are configured to urge the flexible body into engagement with the visor. Indicia, such as advertising, can be placed on the visor protector to provide the perfect promotional platform for products.
US08196208B2 Method and apparatus for creating and applying secure file identifier of rights object by using random numbers
Provided are a method and apparatus for creating and applying a secure file identifier of a rights object by using random numbers. The apparatus includes a secure-file-identifier generating unit which creates the secure file identifier by generating a random number and combining the random number with a hash value corresponding to a rights object identifier of the file identifier list; a transmitting unit which transmits the secure file identifier to the storage device; and a receiving unit which receives a secure file identifier list for identifying the rights object from a storage device.
US08196201B2 Detecting malicious activity
A method, system, computer program product and/or computer readable medium of instructions to detect malicious activity. The method comprises intercepting an activity in a processing system, wherein a requesting entity requests the activity to be performed in relation to a target entity; determining, using a filter module if the activity is suspicious or non-suspicious; and in response to determining that the activity is suspicious, analysing at least one of the activity, the requesting entity and the target entity using an analysis module to detect malicious activity. There is also disclosed a method, system, computer program product and/or computer readable medium of instructions to facilitate the detection of malicious activity.
US08196196B2 Provisional administrator privileges
A system grants “provisional privileges” to a user request for the purpose of provisionally performing a requested transaction. If the provisionally-performed transaction does not put the system in a degraded state, the transaction is authorized despite the user request having inadequate privileges originally.
US08196195B2 Role-based privilege management
A computer implemented method, data processing system, and computer program product for role-based privilege management is provided. A transformation request is received from a requester to form a received request, and a target environment of the received request is identified. A determination is made whether the target environment matches a predefined environment in a set of role-based privileges and, responsive to a determination that the target environment matches a predefined environment in the set of role-based privileges, the parameterized privileges from the set of role-based privileges are mapped to the target environment and the request is performed.
US08196193B2 Method for retrofitting password enabled computer software with a redirection user authentication method
A device, method, and system disclosed herein may be used to integrate and control authentication and passwords among various applications and platforms. The exemplary method may obtain a service ticket from a key distribution center of the key distribution center authentication process and generate a random key. A port between the client and the service may be created and utilized to transmit the service ticket and the random key to a service from the client. The random key may replace a password provided by the user. The random key in the password field of the service logon is transmitted to the service. The service authenticates the random key in the password field with the stored random key in the cache of the service. Once authenticated the service ticket is validated.