Document Document Title
US08630059B1 Methods for closed-loop compensation of ultra-high frequency disturbances in hard disk drives and hard disk drives utilizing same
A disk drive comprises a disk, an actuator arm and a servo controller using a position error signal to generate a controller output signal to control the actuator arm. A plant mechanically models at least a portion of the disk drive, receives a control command to which an unknown disturbance is added and generates a plant output. A disturbance observer (DOB) uses the control command and the plant output to generate a delayed and estimated version of the disturbance. The DOB comprises a Q filter having a selected center frequency. A perfect phase cancellation filter (PPCF) is configured to receive the delayed and estimated version of the disturbance, to reject selected disturbances and to align the desired attenuation frequency with the selected center frequency. The output of the PPCF is subtracted from the controller output signal to generate the control command.
US08630057B2 In-situ contact potential measurement in hard-disk drives
Approaches are provided for a hard-disk drive (HDD) and a method for measuring the contact potential between head and disk interfaces within a hard-disk drive. In one example, a voltage bias is applied to a head slider at discrete increments, and the touchdown power is determined at each increment. The voltage bias at which the TDP maximizes equals the inverse polarity of the inherent contact potential between the head slider and disk, and this value may be used to apply a voltage that neutralizes the contact potential.
US08630046B2 Lens system, optical device with lens system, and method of manufacturing lens system
A lens system comprises, on a side closest to an object, a first lens component having a positive refractive power and a second lens component having a positive refractive power in order from the object; and on a side closest to an image, a cemented lens constructed by cementing together a positive lens and a negative lens in order from the object; wherein the lens system satisfies the following conditional expressions: (n1+n2)/2>1.49 (ν1+ν2)/2>60 where n1 and ν1 denote a refractive index and an Abbe number of the first lens component at d-line, respectively, and n2 and ν2 denote a refractive index and an Abbe number of the second lens component at d-line, respectively.
US08630038B2 Illumination device for a microscope
The present invention relates to an illumination device (400) for a microscope (600), including at least one light source (120, 130) and a reflector (410) for providing diffuse illumination, said reflector at least partially surrounding the observation beam path (OA1) between a microscope objective (10) and an object (20) to be observed. The reflector (410) is at least partially elastic and capable of being reversibly transformed from at least a first form to at least a second form.
US08630037B1 Optical shutter for day-night filter operation
A near-infrared (NIR) optical shutter comprises a multiple-bandpass filter that is characterized by a bandstop filter region located between first and second bandpass filter regions. The first bandpass filter region passes visible light; the bandstop filter region blocks NIR light of wavelengths within a NIR light sensor band region; and the second bandpass filter region passes NIR light of longer wavelengths than a longer wavelength boundary of the NIR light sensor band region. A polarization state changer positioned between NIR polarizing filters and optically associated with the multiple-bandpass filter causes visible light transmission selectively in first and second light states. The polarization state changer in the first light state causes substantially reduced optical shutter transmission of NIR light in the second bandpass filter region and in the second light state causes substantially increased optical shutter transmission of NIR light in the second bandpass filter region.
US08630031B1 Color adjustment for a scanned image
The color of a pixel in a scanned image is represented by two color components and is adjustable by interpolating between color component values obtained from elements in a bidimensional color remap look-up table. The table is sparsely populated and may be readily implemented in most scanner circuits without adding memory.
US08630030B2 Image forming apparatus and image quality calibration method thereof
An image forming apparatus and an image quality calibration method in the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus including a printing unit to print a calibration chart in one mode selected from a plurality of resolution modes, a scanning unit to scan the printed calibration chart, and a calibrating unit to calibrate an image using color values of the scanned calibration chart according to the plurality of resolution modes.
US08630029B2 Method of reading document image data
A method of reading document image data and transferring the image data to a data reception apparatus, includes setting memory areas for storing the image data in a data storage section and setting a reading condition, upon receipt of a scan start command; transmitting the scan start command for instructing the scanner apparatus to start operations; instructing the scanner apparatus to transmit the image data to a transfer data storage section; transferring the image data in the transfer data storage section to the data storage section in response to a data transferring request command; transmitting a document end signal to the data storage section; executing feeding of subsequent document sheets, without transmitting another scan start command; determining whether distance from a rear end is a predetermined length or more, and an available space is a predetermined amount or more; and controlling a feeding section based on determination results.
US08630025B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and image processing program recorded recording medium
It is an object to provide an image processing apparatus which can properly obtain an original area even when there is one original or when there are a plurality of originals, an image processing method, and a recording medium in which an image processing program has been recorded. An image processing apparatus for deciding an image data area of an original from read image data obtained by being read by an image reading apparatus has: an extracting unit for extracting a plurality of image areas from the read image data; and a discriminating unit for discriminating whether or not tilt angles of the image areas extracted by the extracting unit are equal. If one or more tile angles of the image areas are not equal as a result of the discrimination by the discriminating unit, it is determined that each of the image areas is an image data area of the original on the assumption that there are a plurality of originals.
US08630021B2 Color processing for generation of a profile for color separation
A color value of output color reproduced based on an output signal value corresponding to an input color value of a grid point in an input color space, which is obtained by sampling a range of the output signal value, are estimated. An evaluation value that evaluates tonality between a color value estimated in correspondence with an input color value of a grid point of interest in the input color space and color values estimated in correspondence with input color values of grid points adjacent to the grid point of interest is calculated. When the input color value of the grid point of interest, whose evaluation value is less than a predetermined threshold value, is obtained, an output signal value corresponding to that input signal value is set in the grid point of interest.
US08630013B2 Printing control apparatus and method for continuously printing a plurality of jobs
An apparatus allocates a value of page attribute to each page included in a job according to a job attribute set to the job in an intermediate code format that corresponds to data to be printed generated by an application. If a combining instruction is issued to combine a plurality of jobs whose specific job attributes in which only one attribute value can be allocated to one job are allocated different attribute values, the apparatus processes the intermediate code format data so that printing is performed according to the allocated page attribute values. The apparatus then generates a combined job and transmits the generated combined job as print data to the printing apparatus.
US08629992B2 Printing control apparatus and method, and printing system
Provided is a printing system in which it is possible to obtain an appropriate printed result from a printing apparatus even if the type of printing medium that has been set by a printer driver user interface and the type of printing medium loaded in the printing apparatus differ. The printing apparatus has a sensor for sensing the type of printing medium loaded. In the printing system, which requires that a printing parameter be transmitted from the printer driver to the printing apparatus, a printing medium is selected by a language monitor based upon the type of printing medium loaded in the printing apparatus and a print quality selected by the printer driver user interface. The selected printing parameter is transmitted to the printing apparatus together with print data.
US08629988B2 Laser beam image contrast enhancement
An apparatus and method for providing image contrast enhancement is disclosed. A mobile object is equipped with a laser source, polarization filter, and imaging apparatus. The reflection of the laser source output passes through the filter and is received by the imaging apparatus. If the output of the laser source impinges a metallic marker plate located at a pre-determined location, the filter decreases the intensity level of image components not associated with the reflection of the laser source output. The imaging apparatus uses such filtered image components to determine the position and/or orientation of the mobile object.
US08629975B1 Apparatus and method for a multiple aperture coherent ladar
A multi-function, range-Doppler, synthetic aperture and micro-Doppler, coherent laser radar system having improved spatial resolution and immunity to undesired platform motion utilizing two or more simultaneous, spatially offset transceiver apertures.
US08629964B2 Flat panel display
A flat panel display (FPD) has a conductive heat proof plate inserted into the back surface of a display panel on which printed circuit boards (PCBs) and signal lines are formed. The signal lines are surrounded by a blocking unit, and the external surface of the blocking unit is made of a conductive material to be electrically coupled to the heat proof plate so that resistance against electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of a large flat panel display is improved and a thermal characteristic is improved.
US08629963B2 Liquid crystal displays
In an embodiment of the invention, a liquid crystal display is provided. The liquid crystal display includes a first substrate, a first electrode formed on the first substrate, wherein the first electrode includes a plurality of subpixels, and each the subpixel includes a plurality of subunits, and each the subunit includes a plurality of first slits and a plurality of second slits, wherein the first slits are connected to the second slits and the first slits of the subunits which are adjacent to each other are connected to each other, a second substrate opposite to the first substrate, a second electrode formed on the second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08629960B2 Display device substrate, display device substrate manufacturing method, display device, liquid crystal display device, liquid crystal display device manufacturing method and organic electroluminescent display device
The present invention provides a display device substrate, a display device substrate manufacturing method, a display device, a liquid crystal display device, a liquid crystal display device manufacturing method and an organic electroluminescent display device that allow suppressing faults derived from occurrence of gas and/or bubbles in a pixel region. The present invention is a display device substrate that comprises: a photosensitive resin film; and a pixel electrode, in this order, from a side of an insulating substrate. The display device substrate has a gas-barrier insulating film, at a layer higher than the photosensitive resin film, for preventing advance of a gas generated from the photosensitive resin film, or has a gas-barrier insulating film, between the photosensitive resin film and the pixel electrode, for preventing advance of gas generated from the photosensitive resin film.
US08629957B2 Vertically aligned nematic mode liquid crystal display having large tilt angles and high contrast
A reflective liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) display comprises a transparent substrate, a reflective substrate, and liquid crystal fluid between the substrates. The LCOS display further comprises a matrix of pixels, arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, wherein an intersection of a row and a column defines a position of a pixel in the matrix. The LCOS display has tilt angles sufficient to overcome disclinations due to fringe fields, and, at the same time, achieves high contrast. The surface azimuthal direction of the molecules of the liquid crystal fluid is either substantially parallel or perpendicular to the direction of polarization of incoming incident linearly polarized light. Light leakage is minimal because the effective birefringence as seen by the incoming incident linearly polarized light is substantially zero and does not depend on the pretilt of the molecules of the liquid crystal fluid. Between the transparent substrate and the reflective substrate, the twist of the molecules of the liquid crystal fluid may vary from about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees when in the “OFF” state.
US08629956B2 Active matrix type liquid crystal display device and manufacturing process for the same
An active matrix liquid crystal display device of the invention includes a liquid crystal display panel operating in a normally black mode having a first substrate provided with a color filter and a second substrate provided with an active matrix array, wherein the first substrate is provided with a laminated colored layer with three colors, a laminated colored layer with two colors and a colored layer with one color in a frame part surrounding a display area without being provided with a black matrix, and the second substrate is provided with a conductive film formed in a region which is opposed to the laminated colored layer with two colors and the colored layer with one color, between the display area and the laminated colored layer with three colors.
US08629947B2 Liquid crystal panel
A liquid crystal panel including a bottom substrate, a top substrate and a liquid crystal layer is provided. The bottom substrate includes a base plate, an active array structure layer, a color filter layer with plural colors and plural transparent pixel electrodes. The active array structure layer includes plural transparent bottom electrodes and plural transistor structures, at least one insulation layer, plural scan lines and plural data lines both formed on the base plate. At least one insulation layer covers the transparent bottom electrodes. The color filter layer is formed on the active array structure layer. The transparent pixel electrodes are formed on the color filter layer. Each transparent pixel electrode partially overlaps the corresponding transparent bottom electrodes so as to form plural storage capacitor structures. The top substrate is substantially parallel to the bottom substrate. The liquid crystal layer is located between the top substrate and the bottom substrate.
US08629940B2 Apparatus, systems and methods for media device operation preferences based on remote control identification
Remote control signal detection systems and methods are operable to set media device operation preferences in a media device. An exemplary embodiment detects a remote control communication signal transmitted from a remote control, wherein the remote control communication signal includes a unique identifier associated with the transmitting remote control; determines that at least one foreign language preference is associated with the transmitting remote control; and reconfigures information generated by the media device into the preferred foreign language.
US08629938B2 Multi-point television motion sensor system and method
A system is disclosed for controlling operation of an electronic device, such as a TV. The system includes a first sensor located at or near the electronic device and a second sensor spaced apart from the first sensor, wherein the first and second sensors are configured to detect motion of a user within an operating zone associated with the electronic device. A processor is coupled to the electronic device and the first and second sensors, the processor being configured to input a signal from the first and second sensors. Memory is coupled to the processor, the memory comprising a sensing algorithm configured to process the input signal from the first and second sensors and determine the location of the user with respect to the operating zone. The processor is configured to send a control command to the electronic device based on an output of the sensing algorithm.
US08629932B2 Autofocus system and method
A camera module and method for focusing a tunable lens configured to continuously vary its optical power in response to a drive signal. A drive circuit generates the drive signal so that the tunable lens performs a continuous scan of its optical power. An image sensor is configured to acquire light images passing through the tunable lens, and to convert the light images to image signals during the continuous scan. A processor is configured to generate focus scores of the acquired light images using the image signals during the continuous scan. The processor is configured to determine from the focus scores a peak focus score achieved or achievable, and to instruct the drive circuit to adjust the drive signal so that the tunable lens settles at a value of the optical power that corresponds to the peak focus score.
US08629926B2 Imaging apparatus comprising image sensor array having shared global shutter circuitry
There is set forth herein in one embodiment an image sensor array including a global shutter shared by first and second pixels. The global shutter can include a charge storage area having an associated shield for reducing charge build up on the charge storage area attributable to incident light rays. There is set forth herein in one embodiment an imaging apparatus having one or more configuration. The one or more configuration can include one or more of a configuration wherein a frame read out from an image sensor array has unbinned pixel values, a configuration wherein a frame read out from an image sensor array has binned pixel values corresponding to an M×N, M>=2, N>=2 arrangement of pixel values, and a configuration wherein a frame read out from an image sensor array has binned pixel values corresponding to a 1×N, N>=2 arrangement of pixel values.
US08629919B2 Image capture with identification of illuminant
Image capture of a scene in which there is an identification of an imaging property of the scene, such as the illuminant or dynamic range of the scene. An imaging assembly has a spectral response which is tunable in accordance with a capture parameter, and first and second different capture parameters are applied to the image sensor. Respective first and second images of the scene are captured. The first and second images of the scene are compared to identify an imaging property of the scene, such as the illuminant or multiple illuminants in respective ones of multiple regions in the scene. In accordance with the property identified for the scene, a third capture parameter is derived, such as to obtain color correction or white balance in accordance with each identified illuminant. The third capture parameter is applied to the image sensor, and a final image of the scene is captured.
US08629916B2 Camera with imaging unit and imaging unit for camera
The camera according to the present invention has an imaging unit, a sensor having a quantum efficiency of 60% or higher in a visible light range for detecting a focal point adjustment state in the imaging unit, and a control unit for outputting a control signal for adjusting the focal point on the imaging unit on the basis of the output from the sensor.
US08629893B2 Video switching without instantaneous decoder refresh-frames
A system and method for reducing blurred video caused by intra-coded IDR-frames sent in response to when a destination endpoint in a multipoint videoconference switches to a new video source. An embodiment according to the invention comprises using inter-coded temporal predictive referencing a long term reference frame (LTRF) instead of IDR-frames in a multipoint videoconference system.
US08629888B1 Method and apparatus for performing virtual pullback of an intravascular imaging device
The present disclosure provides a method of displaying an intravascular procedure in a virtual environment. The method includes displaying information from a first view and a second view simultaneously. The first view contains virtual representations of an anatomical region of a human body and an intravascular imaging device disposed in the anatomical region. The second view contains a cross-sectional image of a segment of the anatomical region corresponding to a location of the intravascular imaging device. The method includes moving, in response to a user input, the virtual representation of the intravascular imaging device with respect to the virtual representation of the anatomical region. The method includes updating the cross-sectional image as the virtual representation of the intravascular imaging device is being moved. The updated cross-sectional image corresponds to a new location of the intravascular imaging device.
US08629884B2 Wide color gamut display system
A wide gamut RGB digital display, such as an LCD display, digital television, printer, or any other suitable display, includes wide color gamut configuration message control logic that is operative to indicate, to an image source provider, wide gamut RGB indication information and wide color gamut format definition information that indicates that wide gamut RGB color data is to be received by the wide gamut RGB digital display. The wide gamut configuration message control logic is also operatively responsive to wide gamut confirmation information that is received from the image source provider. The wide gamut RGB digital display also includes logic that is operative to display received wide gamut RGB color data that was received in response to the wide gamut RGB indication information and the wide color gamut format definition information.
US08629880B2 Two dimensional memory access controller
A memory control device is adapted to derive a two dimensional location on a graphic display surface from address signals of a graphics processing unit (GPU), and to compare the derived two dimensional location to a two dimensional range of authorized locations corresponding to a subset of the display surface; and to modify the address signals of the graphics processing unit (GPU) if the address signals do not fall within the two-dimensional range of authorized locations corresponding to a subset of the display surface, and to propagate the address signals unmodified to a display memory otherwise.
US08629873B2 Data analysis system
In a liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer (LC/MS), three kinds of graphic data (or graphs) composed of an LC chromatogram, an MS chromatogram, and an MS spectrum should be mutually compared to perform a specific analysis. Conventionally, a plurality of graphs are arranged for comparison on one monitor in accordance with a user's purpose. However, when an operation is once terminated and then the graphs are displayed again or in other processes, their display formats are not reproduced. Hence, the user needs to manually set the desired layout every time, which is cumbersome. The data analysis system according to the present invention has been developed to solve this problem. The data analysis system has a layout memory for storing layout information including a plurality of kinds of graphs to be displayed on the monitor and the display position of each graph, and refers to the layout information when displaying the graphs.
US08629872B1 System and method for displaying and analyzing financial correlation data
A method for displaying a matrix of correlations or other statistical measures of co-movement associated with a plurality of financial instruments, portfolios, indices, or asset classes is disclosed. The method includes: converting the matrix of correlations or other co-movement measures into a probability transition matrix; defining a corresponding abstract distance measurement between any two of the plurality of financial instruments, portfolios, indices, or asset classes based on the probability transition matrix; assigning coordinates in a Euclidean space to each of the plurality of financial instruments, portfolios, indices, or asset classes, wherein a Euclidean distance between any two financial instruments, portfolios, indices, or asset classes in the Euclidean space corresponds to the corresponding abstract distance measurement; and displaying on a display device the plurality of financial instruments, portfolios, indices, or asset classes based on more significant dimensions of the Euclidean space.
US08629870B2 Apparatus, method, and program for displaying stereoscopic images
A stereoscopic image display apparatus, includes an image obtaining unit, for obtaining a plurality of images, which are obtained by photography of a subject from different positions by a photography unit, a distance measuring unit, for measuring the distance to the subject from the photography unit, a stereoscopic image generating unit, for generating a stereoscopic image for three dimensional display from the plurality of images, a display region generating unit, for generating display regions that display the images in having amounts of parallax corresponding to the distance, when the display regions are displayed overlapped in the stereoscopic image, a display unit, for displaying the stereoscopic image, on which the display regions are overlapped, and a zoom unit for enlarging reducing the stereoscopic image, the display region generating unit changing sizes of the display regions according to the zoom magnification rate when the stereoscopic image is enlarged/reduced.
US08629868B1 Systems and methods for simulating depth of field on a computer generated display
A system for simulating depth of field in a computer graphics display is provided according to an exemplary embodiment. The system comprises an image generation circuit configured to generate an image representing a plurality of objects for display on the computer graphics display. The image generation circuit is configured to generate the image using a single blur parameter for each of the plurality of objects that represents both a magnitude of blur and a relative distance with respect to a lens focal distance being simulated by the image generation circuit.
US08629845B2 Information processing apparatus and information processing method
An information processing apparatus includes: display means for displaying an image including an object; detection means, which is stacked on the display means, for detecting a contact with the display means; and control means for switching an operation mode of the display means based on a ratio of the area of the object displayed in the display means to the area of a region of the display means in which the contact is detected by the detection means.
US08629843B2 Piezoelectric assembly
A piezoelectric assembly is provided, including an electrode assembly, a signal electrical connector, and a reference electrical connector. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a piezoelectric material. The signal electrical connector is in electrical communication with the first electrode and configured to be connected to the current or voltage source so as to provide electrical communication with a current or voltage source. The reference electrical connector is in electrical communication with the second electrode and configured to be connected to the reference source so as to provide electrical communication with a reference source. One of the signal electrical connector and the reference electrical connector includes a metal shim for supporting the electrode assembly. A flexible printed circuit board is provided including a trace. An interconnecting structure effects electrical communication between the trace and the metal shim. The interconnecting structure is disposed within a passage provided between a first side surface and an opposite second side surface of the flexible printed circuit board, and extends through the first side surface to provide a coupling structure coupled to the metal shim at a coupling structure surface interface, and also extends through the second side surface to provide a retainer disposed in opposition to the first side surface to provide a retainer disposed in opposition to the first side surface.
US08629841B2 Multi-touch sensor patterns and stack-ups
Capacitive multi-touch sensor panels in which both row and column traces may be formed on a single conducting surface are disclosed. These stack-ups may be made thinner and more flexible allowing them to be particularly well-suited for curved or other non-flat touch sensor panels, such as those that might be present on a mouse or other device designed to be grasped by a user's hand. Curved sensor panel arrays that may be formed from flat substrates are also disclosed. These sensor panel configurations may include channels around the periphery of the array. These channels allow the flat array to lie flat when applied to a curved surface, such as the inside of the curved surface. The pattern of the touch sensor elements may be adjusted across the array to avoid the channels.
US08629839B2 Display screen translator
A system and method are provided for audibly interpreting a screen display. The method comprises: locating a display interpreter (DI) with a tactile matrix of sensors overlying a display screen; in response to sensing a proximate pointer, accepting a tactile matrix region selection; loading a first reference map, cross-referencing DI tactile matrix regions with a first field of screen icons; loading a second reference map, cross-referencing screen icons with audible recordings identifying the screen icons; mapping a screen icon to the selected tactile matrix region; and, audibly identifying the mapped screen icon. That is, the DI uses the second reference map to cross-reference the located screen icon to the audible recording identifying the screen icon, and plays the recording. In one aspect, the DI can be located over a touchscreen with touchscreen icons. Then, the method may further comprise engaging a touchscreen icon.
US08629837B2 Method and device for controlling information display output and input device
A method and device for controlling information display output and an input device. wherein the method and device control the display output of pages or files based on the pressure parameter information, the electromagnetic parameter information, the energy parameter information and/or the time parameter information input by the user. Therefore, the method and device can quickly locate the position needed to be displayed in a plurality of displayed pages, and can multi-dimensionally arbitrarily move or select the displayed position, pages or files, etc., at one time. Furthermore, the method and device can also quickly, flexibly, accurately change the currently displayed position.
US08629831B2 Local-dimming method, light source apparatus performing the local-dimming method and display apparatus having the light source apparatus
A light source module of a display device comprises light-emitting blocks each of which comprises multiple sets of light sources, with different sets emitting different colors (e.g. red, green and blue). Each set is independently controllable according to one or more driving parameters. A local-dimming method comprises: (a) in each color-dimming period, driving each light-emitting block by the first color-dimming process; (b) in each compensating period, driving each light-emitting block by a full-color process which is independent of the image; (c) in each compensating period, sensing emitted light and determining the one or more driving parameters' reference driving values operable to generate a reference color; (d) in at least one of the color-dimming and compensating periods, driving each light-emitting block using the one or more driving parameters' values which depend on the reference driving values; and (e) between a color-dimming period and an adjacent compensating period, gradually switching the light-source module between the first color-dimming process and the full-color process.
US08629827B2 Display device and method of manufacturing the same
A display device includes a display panel, a data driving part and a gate driving part. The display panel includes a first pixel row. The first pixel row includes a first pixel connected to an (n+1)-th gate line and an (m+1)-th data line (where ‘n’ and ‘m’ are natural numbers), and a second pixel connected to an n-th gate line and an (m+2)-th data line. The data driving part applies a data voltage having a first polarity with respect to a reference voltage to the (m+1)-th data line, and applies a data voltage having a second polarity with respect to the reference voltage to the (m+2)-th data line. The gate driving part sequentially applies a gate signal to the n-th gate line and the (n+1)-th gate line.
US08629821B2 Display device with faster changing side image
A display device is provided which includes a liquid crystal display panel including a plurality of pixels each having one or more sub-pixels; and control electronics configured to provide, in response to image data, signal voltages to the pixels in a first mode whereby an on-axis viewer and an off-axis viewer perceive substantially a same main image, and signal voltages to the pixels in a second mode whereby the on-axis viewer perceives the main image and the off-axis viewer perceives a side image different from the main image.
US08629817B2 Driving circuit of display element and image display apparatus
A new driving circuit is provided. The driving circuit according to the present invention comprises a first period for setting a current to be supplied to a display element, a second period for setting a gray-scale of the display element, and a third period for supplying a driving current to the display element. The present invention, in the driving circuit of the display element, is provided with a current source circuit for supplying a constant current to the display element and a control circuit for controlling the time to supply a constant current to the display element from the current source circuit.
US08629801B2 Event location determination
A method of determining a location of an event of interest by processing signals from a satellite positioning system comprises periodically recording blocks of data samples of a satellite broadcast. In response to a request for a position determination at a particular time, a most recent block of data samples is processed in an attempt to obtain a position fix. If unsuccessful, the method further comprises processing blocks of data samples which were recorded further back in time in a sequence to make further attempts to obtain a position fix, until a position fix is obtained. The blocks of data samples used for the further attempts are irregularly spaced in time, for example more densely populated in relatively recent time than in relatively ancient time with respect to the particular time. This enables the processing resource in attempting to obtain a position fix to be allocated efficiently, thereby reducing power consumption.
US08629792B2 A/D conversion circuit and test method
An electric device includes first, second and third selectors. A first node connects to a first input of the first selector, a second node connects to a first input of the second selector, a third node connects to a second input of the first selector, and a fourth node connects to a second input of the second selector. A first switch connects to the first node, and a second switch connects to the second node. A first capacitor connects between the first switch and the third node, and a second capacitor connects between the second switch and the fourth node. A fifth node connects between an output of the first selector and a first input of the third selector, and a sixth node connects between an output of the second selector and a second input of the third selector. An A/D converter connects to an output of the third selector.
US08629789B2 Mobile communication device
A mobile communications device comprising a location sensing system, producing a location output; a memory, storing a set of locations and associated events; a telecommunications device, communicating event and location information between a remote system and said memory; and a processor, processing said location output in conjunction with said stored locations and associated events in said memory, to determine a priority thereof.
US08629787B1 System, module, and method for presenting clearance-dependent advisory information in an aircraft
A present novel and non-trivial system, module, and method for presenting clearance-dependent advisory information in an aircraft is disclosed. Clearances include those corresponding to interval management operations and/or trajectory management operations. Data representative of clearance information including data representative of an actual controller intervention threshold (“CIT”) information, ownship information, target information, and alert parameter(s) information is received. The actual CIT information is comprised of the CIT of a clearance assigned to an aircraft and/or an designator from which the CIT of the assigned clearance is determined. A dynamic alerting threshold is determined as a function of the received information. If the ownship position meets or exceeds the alerting threshold, an advisory data set comprised of visual advisory information, aural advisory information, and/or tactile advisory information is generated and provided a presentation system in which advisory and/or alert information is presented by an applicable unit of the presentation system.
US08629782B2 System and method for using dual telemetry
A system and a method use dual telemetry for tools located in a wellbore. A first telemetry system and a second telemetry system coordinate communication with the tools. Both the first telemetry system and the second telemetry system may transmit data regarding the tools and/or drilling conditions from the tools to a surface location simultaneously. The first telemetry system or the second telemetry system may communicate with the surface location if communication using the other telemetry system is interrupted. The first telemetry system and the second telemetry system may have a master/slave relationship so that data requests from a specific telemetry system do not interfere with data requests from the other telemetry system.
US08629781B2 Efficiency determination for a selective-catalytic-reduction catalyst
A method of assessing overall efficiency of a selective-catalytic-reduction catalyst includes monitoring instantaneous efficiency of the catalyst. The method also includes determining the overall efficiency by summing instantaneous efficiency values weighted by a first set of coefficients if the most recent instantaneous efficiency value is above an instantaneous efficiency threshold. The method additionally includes determining the overall efficiency by summing instantaneous efficiency values weighted by a second set of coefficients if the most recent instantaneous efficiency value is equal to or below the instantaneous efficiency threshold. Furthermore, the method includes determining whether the overall efficiency has dropped below an overall efficiency threshold and reporting when the overall efficiency has dropped below the overall efficiency threshold. The second set of coefficients weighs the most recent instantaneous efficiency value more heavily than preceding instantaneous efficiency values as compared with the first set of coefficients. A system and a vehicle are also disclosed.
US08629752B2 Suppressor
This invention relates to a suppressor, including an element having sheets printed with a first internal electrode and a second internal electrode, and a discharge material disposed in a gap between the first internal electrode and the second internal electrode, wherein the discharge material is composed of a SiC—ZnO-based component, in which ZnO is reacted with the surface of SiC, thereby imparting much higher insulating properties and improving ESD resistance.
US08629746B2 High frequency transformers
High frequency, high power density coaxial, planar and three-phase transformers for converters and inverters are disclosed. One of the coaxial transformers comprises at least one primary winding and at least one secondary winding associated with at least one magnetic core, at least one coaxial Faraday shield between and substantially coaxial with the at least one primary winding and the at least one secondary winding and a substantially planar Faraday shield at one or more ends of the at least one magnetic core.
US08629741B2 Slot-type shielding structure having extensions that extend beyond the top or bottom of a coplanar waveguide structure
A device that includes a coplanar waveguide structure is disclosed. In an example, a device includes a coplanar waveguide structure that is oriented in a first direction, and a slot-type floating shield structure oriented proximate to the coplanar waveguide structure. The slot-type floating shield structure includes a first portion that extends transversely to the coplanar waveguide structure in a second direction and a second portion that extends from the first portion in a third direction that is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.
US08629734B2 Systems and methods for power smoothing in power distribution
A system for power smoothing in power distribution and methods are provided. In one embodiment, a power multiplying network is provided that comprises a multiply-connected, velocity inhibiting circuit constructed from a number of lumped-elements. The power multiplying network is coupled to a power distribution network. The power multiplying network is configured to store power from and supply power to the power distribution network.
US08629733B2 Adaptive on die decoupling devices and methods
Semiconductor dies and methods are described, such as those including a first capacitive pathway having a first effective series resistance (ESR) and a second capacitive pathway having an adjustable ESR. One such device provides for optimizing the semiconductor die for different operating conditions such as operating frequency. As a result, semiconductor dies can be manufactured in a single configuration for several different operating frequencies, and each die can be tuned to reduce (e.g. minimize) supply noise, such as by varying the ESR or the capacitance of at least one of the pathways.
US08629713B2 System and method for controlling bypass of a voltage regulator
A voltage regulator bypass circuit to control bypass of a voltage regulator of an integrated circuit device, the voltage regulator bypass circuit including a first voltage detector, a second voltage detector, and circuit. The first voltage detector to detect that a core circuitry voltage level is above a first threshold and to assert a first detect signal at an output in response to the detection. The second voltage detector to detect that an unregulated supply voltage is above a second threshold and to assert a second detect signal at an output in response to the detection. The circuit having a first input coupled to the output of the first voltage detector and a second input coupled to the output of the second voltage detector, the circuit to bypass the voltage regulator in response the output of the latch being cleared.
US08629705B2 Low voltage signaling
A low voltage signaling system for integrated circuits includes a first voltage domain operating at a nominal integrated circuit (IC) power supply voltage (Vdd) swing level at a signal transmitting end of a first chip, a second voltage domain having one or more transmission interconnect lines operating at a reduced voltage swing level with respect to the first voltage domain, and a third voltage domain at a signal receiving end of a second chip, the third voltage domain operating at the Vdd swing level; wherein an input signal originating from the first voltage domain is down converted to operate at the reduced voltage swing level for transmission over the second voltage domain, and wherein the third voltage domain senses the input signal transmitted over the second voltage domain and generates an output signal operating back up at the Vdd swing level.
US08629698B2 Mixing circuit
There is provided a mixing circuit in which a rise of the consumption current can be suppressed while decreasing a non-linear component. The mixing circuit includes: an input unit 803 including a grounded-gate MOS transistor M1 with a source into which an input signal is input, and a grounded-source MOS transistor M2 with a gate into which the input signal is input; a frequency converter 802 for converting frequencies of a first current signal output from the grounded-gate MOS transistor M1 and a second current signal output from the grounded-source MOS transistor M2, and for generating a third current signal and a fourth current signal; a load MOS transistor M7, with a gate and a drain connected, for receiving a third current signal; and a load MOS transistor M8, with a gate and a drain connected, for receiving a fourth current signal.
US08629697B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit and method of operating the same
Provided is a semiconductor integrated circuit including an internal voltage generator for generating an internal voltage. A semiconductor integrated circuit includes a dividing unit, a comparing unit, a driving unit, and a voltage level controlling unit. The dividing unit divides an internal voltage in a predetermined division ratio to output a feedback voltage. The comparing unit compares a feedback voltage with a reference voltage. The driving unit drives an internal voltage terminal in response to an output signal of the comparing unit. The voltage level controlling unit controls a voltage level of the output signal of the comparing unit in response to a first control signal that is activated at a predetermined time before an operation time point of an internal circuit using an internal voltage.
US08629687B2 Disconnection detecting device
A control circuit turns on a switching element to discharge a capacitor, and after a voltage between both ends of the capacitor becomes zero, the control circuit turns off the switching element. The control circuit measures the voltage V1, V2 between both ends of the capacitor after the first predetermined time is passed and after the second predetermined time is passed, and calculate a change rate (V1/V2). If V1/V2 is equal to or less than 0.5, the disconnection is detected.
US08629685B2 Device for measuring a variation in the capacitance of a variable capacitive structure
A device for measuring a variation in the capacitance of a variable capacitive structure, includes: a supply voltage; a reference capacitance; element for measuring a voltage across the terminals of the reference capacitance; a measurement capacitive structure; and elements for detecting a threshold voltage across the terminals of the reference capacitance. The device is configured/programmed so that the measurement capacitive structure is discharged, in a variable number of discharges, into the reference capacitance after the variable capacitive structure has been discharged, in a fixed number of discharges, into the reference capacitance and until the voltage (VS) across the terminals of the reference capacitance has reached the threshold voltage. The variation in the variable number of discharges relative to a previously obtained number of discharges allows the variation in the capacitance of the variable capacitive structure to be estimated.
US08629680B2 Central processing unit test system
A central processing unit (CPU) test system includes a CPU socket, a CPU core controller, and a CPU test device. The CPU core controller stores a start voltage message. The CPU test device includes a voltage detection pin, an analog to digital (A/D) converter, and a microcontroller. The voltage detection pin detects a voltage of an electronic device connected to the CPU socket. The A/D converter converts the detected voltage into a digital signal. The microcontroller controls the CPU core controller to output the start voltage to the CPU socket according to the digital signal. The microcontroller stores a predetermined start voltage message. The microcontroller reads the start voltage message after controlling the CPU core controller to output the start voltage, and determines whether the CPU core controller supplies the start voltage to the CPU socket by comparing the read start voltage message with the predetermined start voltage message.
US08629677B2 Hybrid induction balance/pulse induction metal detector
A new hybrid metal detector combines induction balance and pulse induction technologies. Target signals are generated from a transmitted wave that has both induction balance and pulse current inducing characteristics and uses pertinent sampling of the receive data. Combining the two data sources provides eddy current target identification while excluding ground permeability and remanence obscuration.
US08629667B2 Pulse width modulator with an adjustable waveform generator for controlling duty cycle of a pulse width modulated signal
Disclosed herein are pulse width modulator (PWM) solutions with comparators not relying on a variable reference to adjust duty cycle. In accordance with some embodiments, a pulse width modulator having a comparator with an applied adjustable waveform to generate a bit stream with a controllably adjustable duty cycle is provided.
US08629665B2 Voltage regulating apparatus
The invention discloses a voltage regulating apparatus, which includes: a linear regulator generating a first error signal; a switching regulator generating a first and a second PWM signals; a selecting unit coupled to the linear and switching regulators, receiving the first error signal and the second PWM signal, and outputting a regulating signal; a first power transistor coupled to the switching regulator and receiving the first PWM signal; and a second power transistor coupled to the selecting unit and receiving the regulating signal; wherein the voltage regulating apparatus can be put either in a linear mode of operation if the first error signal is selected as the regulating signal, or in a switching mode of operation if the second PWM signal is selected as the regulating signal.
US08629661B2 Bidirectional DC-DC converter and control method thereof
Disclosed is a small-size, high-efficiency, isolated, bidirectional DC-DC converter. The bidirectional DC-DC converter includes a transformer in which windings are magnetically coupled, switching circuits, a diode which is connected in parallel with a switch, smoothing capacitors, and a control section. First and second DC power supplies, which are connected in parallel with the smoothing capacitors, respectively, provide bidirectional electrical power transfer. When electrical power is to be transferred from the first DC power supply to the second DC power supply, the switch is maintained in the ON state. When, on the other hand, electrical power is to be transferred from the second DC power supply to the first DC power supply, the switch is maintained in the OFF state to prevent a reverse electrical power flow from the first DC power supply.
US08629653B2 Electronic apparatus and electronic apparatus charging system
An electronic apparatus includes a housing having a predetermined face; a power receiver that receives electric power in a contactless manner by way of the predetermined face; a secondary battery that is charged by electric power received by the power receiver; a front-back detection unit that detects whether or not the predetermined face faces a charger; and an alarm unit that notifies that the predetermined face is situated at a position inappropriate for charging when the front-back detection unit detects that the predetermined face does not face the charger.
US08629649B2 Battery charging apparatus with a common control loop for a low drop-out voltage regulator and a boost regulator
A flexible dual mode battery charger that charges a battery in two different modes, depending on the difference between the adapter voltage and the battery voltage, with a smooth transition between these two modes and the charging current remains relatively constant during the transition is provided in this application. At a lower battery level, the dual mode battery charger charges the battery as a LDO charger and when battery voltage is very close to the adapter voltage, the charger migrates its operating mode from the LDO mode to the boost mode and charges the battery as a boost charger. This flexible battery charger uses one common control circuit for controlling the operations of the LDO charger and the boost charger. The switching operation from one operation mode to other operation mode is smooth.
US08629648B2 Photovoltaic system
Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure relates to a photovoltaic system for generating an output voltage which is uninfluenced by varying irradiation. The photovoltaic system includes at least one photovoltaic unit having two photovoltaic sources, wherein each photovoltaic source includes an input terminal and an output terminal. The photovoltaic unit includes two voltage adding arrangements, each voltage adding arrangement having a first route including a voltage source and a second route including a voltage source bypass. The first voltage adding arrangement is connected in series with the first photovoltaic source and the second voltage adding arrangement is connected in series with the second photovoltaic source. A switch is arranged between an input terminal of the first photovoltaic source and an output terminal of the second photovoltaic source. The input terminals of the photovoltaic unit, which include an external interface of the photovoltaic system, are interconnected and the output terminals of the photovoltaic unit constituting the external interface of the photovoltaic system are interconnected.
US08629647B2 Battery charger apparatus and method for a photovoltaic system
A battery charger, or charge controller, for a photovoltaic system is disclosed, comprising a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) circuit, which may be bypassed by means of a bypass circuit. The bypass circuit may be a simple electrical wire or link. The battery charger is operable to track the maximum power of a photogenerator by means of the MPPT, or to bypass the MPPT and disable it, in dependence on whether the power loss which results from the MPPT would be greater than the power saving achieved by tracking the maximum power point of the photogenerator.Also disclosed is a control unit for use in such a battery charger, and a method for controlling such a battery charger.
US08629646B2 Generation of renewable energy certificates from distributed procedures
A system and method for recorded renewable energy certificates from power produced by small power generators is provided. An appliance can include a renewable energy source and electronics to monitor and control the charging of batteries in the appliance utilizing power from the renewable energy source. Power from the batteries can be utilized to power or charge external devices. The electronics also records the total power production from the renewable energy source and uploads transaction records to either an external device for transmission to a records server or uploads it directly to the records server itself. The records server compiles the transaction records and generates renewable energy certificates by aggregating the transaction records. Renewable energy certificates can be redeemed in exchange for real or virtual goods and services.
US08629641B2 Machine tool to control driving of control objects
A machine tool includes a time calculation unit calculating the time for a spindle to arrive at a target rotational speed, and the time for a spindle head to arrive at a target position; a comparison unit comparing the time to arrive at the target rotational speed and the time to arrive at the target position; and a drive control unit controlling the drive of the spindle and the drive of the spindle head. The drive control unit controls the drive of the spindle head, when a determination is made that the time to arrive at the target rotational speed is longer than the time to arrive at the target position, such that the time for the spindle head to arrive at the target position is longer than the calculated time to arrive at the target position, and less than or equal to the calculated time to arrive at the target rotational speed. Accordingly, the machine tool can drive the spindle head that is a control object in a power-saving mode.
US08629640B2 Integrated fan drive system for air-cooled heat exchangers (ACHE)
An air-cooled heat exchanger (ACHE) for cooling process fluids used in an industrial process. In one embodiment, the ACHE is configured as a forced-draft ACHE. A support structure supports the forced draft ACHE above grade. A tube bundle is supported by the structure and is configured to receive process fluids used in an industrial process. A plenum is connected to the support structure, positioned beneath the tube bundle and configured to direct air-flow through the tube bundle. A fan is supported by the support structure and positioned beneath the plenum. Rotation of the fan produces an air-flow that is directed through the tube bundle by the plenum. A fan drive system is supported by the support structure, positioned beneath the fan and comprises a permanent magnet motor comprising a motor casing, a stator and a rotatable shaft, the rotatable shaft being connected to the fan.
US08629639B2 Brushless direct current motor and driving unit thereof
A brushless direct current (DC) motor includes a rotor, a stator and a driving unit. The rotor includes a plurality of magnetic poles. The stator includes a plurality of upper pole arms and a plurality of lower pole arms. The driving unit includes at least two coils wound on the upper pole arms and the lower pole arms respectively, and the driving unit generates an alternating magnetic field on the stator for driving the rotor.
US08629638B2 Lock protection and standby mode control circuit of motor driving apparatus
A motor driving apparatus including a lock protection unit, a standby mode control unit, and a motor control circuit is provided. The lock protection unit receives a motor speed signal representing the rotation of the motor and generates a lock signal accordingly. The standby mode control unit receives a PWM signal and the lock signal and generates a standby mode control signal accordingly. The lock protection unit decides whether to stop generating the lock signal or not accordingly to the standby mode control signal. The motor control circuit controls the rotation of the motor according to the PWM signal and changes the operation mode according to the standby mode control signal and the lock signal.
US08629629B2 Power factor correction in and dimming of solid state lighting devices
An apparatus and method provides a driver circuit that provides for power factor correction (PFC) to a load, such as a solid-state lighting (SSL) device, such as, for example, a light emitting diode (LED) or an array or cluster of LEDs. A programmable reference is provided in the circuit to operate in a fixed frequency peak current mode control (FFPCMC) or in a fixed frequency average current mode control (FFACMC). A driver circuit is employed to operate the SSL device using power derived from a main power source which may be DC or AC. In a FFPCMC embodiment, a programmable power reference is programmed to be a fixed DC voltage. In a FFACMC embodiment, source input current to the circuit can be programmed to be proportional to the rectified AC voltage after a bridge rectifier.
US08629624B2 Method and apparatus for measuring operating characteristics in a load control device
A load control device, such as an electronic ballast, for controlling the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load, such as one or more fluorescent lamps, comprises a power converter having an inductor and a power switching device coupled to the inductor, a load control circuit adapted to be coupled to the electrical load, and a control circuit operable to calculate an average input power of the load control device. The control circuit may be operable to calculate a cumulative output power of the power converter while the ballast is preheating filaments of the lamps, and to subsequently determine a fault condition in the lamps in response to the calculated cumulative output power of the power converter. Further, the control circuit may be operable to transmit a digital message including the calculated average input power of the load control device.
US08629616B2 Arc tube device and stem structure for electrodeless plasma lamp
A plasma lamp apparatus. The apparatus has an arc tube structure having an inner region and an outer region in one or more embodiments. The arc tube structure has a first end comprising an associated first end diameter and a second end comprising a second end diameter according to a specific embodiment. The apparatus also has a center region provided between the first end and the second end in one or more embodiments. The center region has a center diameter, which is less than a first end diameter and/or a second end diameter.
US08629615B2 Method of fabricating an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display
An organic light emitting diode display and a method of fabricating the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a base substrate including a first device region and a first encapsulation region, wherein the first encapsulation region is located on both sides of the first device region and forming an organic light emitting diode (OLED) on the first device region. The method further includes providing an encapsulation substrate including a second device region and a second encapsulation region corresponding to the first device region and first encapsulation region, respectively, forming a light transmission layer on the second device region and forming an inner filler on the light transmission layer.
US08629613B2 Aromatic amine derivative and organic electroluminescent device using same
Provided are a novel aromatic amine derivative having an asymmetric structure and an organic electroluminescence device in which, an organic thin film layer comprising a single layer or plural layers including at least a light emitting layer is interposed between a cathode and an anode, at least one layer in the above organic thin film layer contains the aromatic amine derivative described above in the form of a single component or a mixed component, whereby molecules are less liable to be crystallized; a yield in producing the organic electroluminescence device is enhanced; and a lifetime is extended.
US08629610B2 Display panel
The present invention discloses a display panel 10 having a substrate 12 with one or more surfaces and one or more features 30 within the substrate 12. When electromagnetic radiation is introduced at or directed toward one or more surfaces of the substrate 12, the features 30 redirect the electromagnetic radiation in one or more predetermined directions.
US08629600B2 Annular thermoacoustic energy converter
A thermoacoustic energy converter for converting heat energy to electricity includes an annular resonator with a regenerator disposed therein. An electro-mechanical transducer is coupled to the annular resonator and in fluid communication with the working fluid. When heat is applied to one end of the annular resonator, a traveling acoustic wave is generated in the annular resonator causing vibrations in the working fluid that actuate the electro-mechanical transducer to generate electricity.
US08629595B2 Permanent magnet rotor arrangement and method for producing such an arrangement
A permanent magnet rotor arrangement is provided. The arrangement includes a rotor, a plurality of nonmagnetic profiled tubes defining a closed channel and affixed circumferentially along the outer rim of the rotor, and a plurality of permanent magnet pole pieces arranged in the channels. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes are monolithic and one pole piece is arranged in every channel.
US08629594B2 Lubrication structure of generator motor and generator motor
A lubrication structure of a generator motor, includes: at least two bearings rotatably supporting an input/output shaft of the generator motor; a gap provided between the two bearings; a cylindrical-shaped bearing attaching member attached to inner peripheral parts of the two bearings; and a through hole penetrating the bearing attaching member outward in a radial direction and opening in a position overlapping with the gap.
US08629584B2 Base assembly for motor and fan motor including the same
There are provided a base assembly for a motor and a fan motor including the same. The base assembly includes; a holder including a shaft system of the motor mounted therein and a stator for providing rotational driving force to a rotating member; an extension member mounted on the holder and extended to an upper portion of the stator; and an attractive magnet positioned above the extension member in an outer diameter direction to thereby prevent excessive floating of the rotating member.
US08629579B2 Active switching ripple filter
An active switching ripple filter system removes ripple currents from a power signal and has a main inverter and an active switching ripple filter inverter whose outputs are combined to form an output power signal.
US08629577B2 Pinless power coupling
A pin-less power coupling arrangement comprising at least one pin-less power jack; the power jack comprising a primary coil shielded behind an insulating layer for inductive coupling to a pin-less power plug; said power plug comprising a secondary coil wherein said insulating layer is substantially flat and said power plug and said power jack may be aligned by an alignment means. Various such alignment means are discussed as are enabled surfaces for supporting inductive power jacks and inductive plugs coupled to various appliances.
US08629572B1 Linear faraday induction generator for the generation of electrical power from ocean wave kinetic energy and arrangements thereof
Various embodiments of linear electric generators and arrangements thereof are disclosed. One such generator includes a permanent magnetic array with magnets that are oriented such that like poles of the magnets are disposed adjacently to concentrate a magnetic field through a coil array. To enhance the magnetic field distribution, the magnets are affixed under a compressive strain due to repulsive forces resulting from proximity of the like poles. According to another aspect, a plurality of vibrational linear electric generators (VLEGs) can be arranged so that magnets of different VLEGs are oriented so that poles of opposite polarity are disposed adjacently to further enhance magnetic field concentration through coil arrays. In addition, a plurality of wave energy converters can be arranged in very close proximity, at most 8 times a height of a buoyant portion of the converters, to act as a seawall and thereby protect various structures from ocean waves.
US08629567B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with contacts and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: forming an isolated contact having a contact protrusion; forming a die paddle, adjacent to the isolated contact, having a die paddle contour; depositing a contact pad on the contact protrusion; coupling an integrated circuit die to the contact protrusion; molding an encapsulation on the integrated circuit die; and depositing an organic filler on and between the isolated contact and the die paddle, the contact protrusion extended past the organic filler.
US08629564B2 Semiconductor electronic component and semiconductor device using the same
The problem of the present invention is to provide a chip-on-chip type semiconductor electronic component and a semiconductor device which can meet the requirements for further density increase of semiconductor integrated circuits.The present invention provides: a chip-on-chip type semiconductor electronic component in which a circuit surface of a first semiconductor chip and a circuit surface of a second semiconductor chip are opposed to each other, wherein the distance X between the first semiconductor chip and the second semiconductor chip is 50 μm or less, and the shortest distance Y between the side surface of the second semiconductor chip and the first external electrode is 1 mm or less; and a semiconductor device comprising the same.
US08629563B2 Method for packaging semiconductor dies having through-silicon vias
Integrated circuit structures and methods are provided. According to an embodiment, a circuit structure includes a die and an anisotropic conducting film (ACF). The die comprises a through via, and the through via protrudes from a surface of the die. A cross-sectional area of the through via in the surface of the die is equal to a cross-sectional area of a protruding portion of the through via in a plane parallel to the surface of the die. The ACF adjoins the surface of the die, and the protruding portion of the through via penetrates the ACF.
US08629556B2 Semiconductor device
The semiconductor device 1 includes a substrate 3, a semiconductor chip 4 mounted on the substrate 3, the substrate 3, a bump 5 connecting the substrate 3 and the semiconductor chip 4, and an underfill 6 filling in around the bump 5. In the case of a bump 5 composed of a high-melting-point solder having a melting point of 230° C. or more, the underfill 6 is composed of a resin material having an elastic modulus in the range of 30 MPa to 3000 MPa. In the case of a bump 5 composed of a lead-free solder, the underfill 6 is composed of a resin material having an elastic modulus in the range of 150 MPa to 800 MPa. An insulating layer 311 of buildup layers 31 of the substrate 3 has a linear expansion coefficient of 35 ppm/° C. or less in the in-plane direction of the substrate at temperatures in the range of 25° C. to the glass transition temperature.
US08629553B2 3D integrated circuit device fabrication with precisely controllable substrate removal
A method is provided for fabricating a 3D integrated circuit structure. According to the method, a first active circuitry layer wafer is provided. The first active circuitry layer wafer comprises a P+ portion covered by a P− layer, and the P− layer includes active circuitry. The first active circuitry layer wafer is bonded face down to an interface wafer that includes a first wiring layer, and then the P+ portion of the first active circuitry layer wafer is selectively removed with respect to the P− layer of the first active circuitry layer wafer. Next, a wiring layer is fabricated on the backside of the P− layer. Also provided are a tangible computer readable medium encoded with a program for fabricating a 3D integrated circuit structure, and a 3D integrated circuit structure.
US08629536B2 High performance on-chip vertical coaxial cable, method of manufacture and design structure
A high performance on-chip vertical coaxial cable structure, method of manufacturing and design structure thereof is provided. The coaxial cable structure includes an inner conductor and an insulating material that coaxially surrounds the inner conductor. The structure further includes an outer conductor which surrounds the insulating material. Both the inner and outer conductors comprise a plurality of metal layers formed on different wiring levels and interconnected between the different wiring levels by conductors. The coaxial cable structure is formed upon a surface of a semiconductor substrate and is oriented in substantially perpendicular alignment with the surface.
US08629532B2 Semiconductor wafer with assisting dicing structure and dicing method thereof
A semiconductor wafer with an assisting dicing structure. The wafer comprises a substrate having a front surface and a rear surface. The front surface of the substrate comprises at least two device regions separated by at least one dicing lane. The rear surface of the substrate comprises at least one pre-dicing trench formed therein and substantially aligned with the dicing lane. A method for dicing a semiconductor wafer is also disclosed.
US08629529B2 Semiconductor device and its manufacturing method
A semiconductor device is produced by fabricating a capacitor element including a lower electrode, a capacitor insulating film, and an upper electrode, and a thin-film resistor element, in the same step. As the lower electrode of the capacitor element is lined with a lower layer wiring layer (Cu wiring), the lower electrode has extremely low resistance substantially. As such, even if the film thickness of the lower electrode becomes thinner, parasitic resistance does not increased. The resistor element is formed to have the same film thickness as that of the lower electrode of the capacitor element. Since the film thickness of the lower electrode is thin, it works as a resistor having high resistance. In the top layer of the passive element, a passive element cap insulating film is provided, which works as an etching stop layer when etching a contact of the upper electrode of the capacitor element.
US08629526B2 Semiconductor device
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a first semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, a plurality of second semiconductor regions of a second conductivity type, a third semiconductor region of the second conductivity type and a first electrode. The second regions are provided separately on a first major surface side of the first layer. The third region is provided on the first major surface side of the first layer so as to surround the second regions. The first electrode is provided on the first layer and the second regions. The first layer has a first portion and a second portion. The second portion has a lower resistivity than the first portion. The second portion is provided between the second regions and between the first portion and the first major surface and is provided outside the third region and between the first portion and the first major surface.
US08629515B2 Metal gate semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, a source and a drain region formed on the semiconductor substrate, and a gate structure disposed on the substrate between the source and drain regions. The gate structure includes an interfacial layer formed over the substrate, a high-k dielectric formed over the interfacial layer, and a metal gate formed over the high-k dielectric that includes a first metal layer and a second metal layer, where the first metal layer is formed on a portion of the sidewalls of the gate structure and where the second metal layer is formed on another portion of the sidewalls of the gate structure.
US08629513B2 HV interconnection solution using floating conductors
A device includes a first and a second heavily doped region in a semiconductor substrate. An insulation region has at least a portion in the semiconductor substrate, wherein the insulation region is adjacent to the first and the second heavily doped regions. A gate dielectric is formed over the semiconductor substrate and having a portion over a portion of the insulation region. A gate is formed over the gate dielectric. A floating conductor is over and vertically overlapping the insulation region. A metal line includes a portion over and vertically overlapping the floating conductor, wherein the metal line is coupled to, and carries a voltage of, the second heavily doped region.
US08629512B2 Gate stack of fin field effect transistor with slanted sidewalls
The description relates to a gate stack of a fin field effect transistor (FinFET). An exemplary structure for a FinFET includes a substrate including a first surface and an insulation region covering a portion of the first surface, where a top of the insulation region defines a second surface. The FinFET further includes a fin disposed through an opening in the insulation region to a first height above the second surface, where a base of an upper portion of the fin is broader than a top of the upper portion, wherein the upper portion has first tapered sidewalls and a third surface. The FinFET further includes a gate dielectric covering the first tapered sidewalls and the third surface and a conductive gate strip traversing over the gate dielectric, where the conductive gate strip has second tapered sidewalls along a longitudinal direction of the fin.
US08629509B2 High voltage insulated gate bipolar transistors with minority carrier diverter
High power insulated gate bipolar junction transistors are provided that include a wide band gap semiconductor bipolar junction transistor (“BJT”) and a wide band gap semiconductor MOSFET that is configured to provide a current to the base of the BJT. These devices further include a minority carrier diversion semiconductor layer on the base of the BJT and coupled to the emitter of the BJT, the minority carrier diversion semiconductor layer having a conductivity type opposite the conductivity type of the base of the BJT and forming a heterojunction with the base of the BJT.
US08629507B2 Thin film transistor
The present invention provides a thin film transistor (TFT) manufacturing method and a TFT, a source electrode or drain electrode of the TFT is electrically connected to a data line directly during a forming process by providing a through hole in a surface above the data line of the TFT, so as to save the process cost. Further, the source electrode and drain electrode of the TFT are also manufactured with poly-silicon rather than metal material used in prior art, processing steps are simplified, thereby further saving the process cost.
US08629497B2 Semiconductor devices and methods of fabricating the same
A semiconductor device includes a substrate having first and second regions, a device isolation layer on the substrate defining an active region in each of the first and second regions, a gate pattern on the active region of each of the first and second regions, and a first dopant region and a second dopant region in each of the first and second regions of the substrate, the gate pattern in each of the first and second regions being between respective first and second dopant regions. At least one of upper surfaces of the first and second dopant regions in the second region is lower in level than an upper surface of the substrate under the gate pattern in the second region, the first and second dopant regions in the second region having an asymmetric recessed structure with respect to the gate pattern in the second region.
US08629486B2 CMOS image sensor having anti-absorption layer
A complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, including a wiring layer, a photodiode stacked with the wiring layer, a micro-lens stacked on the photodiode, an anti-reflection layer stacked on the photodiode. An anti-absorption layer may be provided between the photodiode and the anti-reflection layer. The photodiode may include a first portion and a second portion. Light may be focused on the first portion by the micro-lens and the second portion may at least partially surround the first portion. A material of the first portion may have a refractive index higher than a refractive index of a material of the second portion. The anti-absorption layer may include a compound semiconductor having an energy band gap greater than an energy band gap of a semiconductor included in the photodiode.
US08629481B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit device
In a semiconductor integrated circuit device, testing pads (209b) using a conductive layer, such as relocation wiring layers (205) are provided just above or in the neighborhood of terminals like bonding pads (202b) used only for probe inspection at which bump electrodes (208) are not provided. Similar testing pads may be provided even with respect to terminals like bonding pads provided with bump electrodes. A probe test is executed by using these testing pads or under the combined use of under bump metallurgies antecedent to the formation of the bump electrodes together with the testing pads. According to the above, bump electrodes for pads dedicated for probe testing may not be added owing to the use of the testing pads. Further, the use of testing pads provided in the neighborhood of the terminals like the bonding pads and smaller in size than the under bump metallurgies enables a probe test to be executed after a relocation wiring process.
US08629478B2 Fin structure for high mobility multiple-gate transistor
A vertical fin structure for a semiconductor transistor includes a semiconductor substrate, a fin layer on top of the substrate, a capping layer overlaying the fin layer, wherein the substrate comprises group IV semiconductor material, the fin layer comprises group IV semiconductor material, the capping layer comprises semiconductor compound from group III-V. The fin layer can comprise Ge, SiGe, SiC, or any combinations thereof. The semiconductor substrate can comprise Si, Ge, SiGe, or SiC. The capping layer can comprise GaAs, InGaAs, InAs, InSb, GaSb, GaN, InP, or any combinations thereof. The capping layer can provide more than a 4 percent lattice mismatch with the semiconductor substrate. The fin layer can be located in between shallow trench insulation (STI) layers that provide isolation from adjacent devices. The vertical fin structure can further include a high-k dielectric layer overlaying the capping layer and a metal gate layer overlaying the high-k dielectric layer.
US08629477B2 Lattice-mismatched semiconductor structures with reduced dislocation defect densities and related methods for device fabrication
Fabrication of monolithic lattice-mismatched semiconductor heterostructures with limited area regions having upper portions substantially exhausted of threading dislocations, as well as fabrication of semiconductor devices based on such lattice-mismatched heterostructures.
US08629475B2 Light-emitting dies incorporating wavelength-conversion materials and related methods
In accordance with certain embodiments, semiconductor dies are embedded within polymeric binder to form, e.g., freestanding white light-emitting dies and/or composite wafers containing multiple light-emitting dies embedded in a single volume of binder.
US08629473B2 Semiconductor light-emitting element, semiconductor light-emitting device, method for producing semiconductor light-emitting element, method for producing semiconductor light-emitting device, illumination device using semiconductor light-emitting device, and electronic apparatus
The disclosed semiconductor light-emitting element is configured from layering an n-type semiconductor layer, a light-emitting layer, and a p-type semiconductor layer (160); and a first electrode (200), which is the cathode, is formed on the p-type semiconductor layer (160). Also, between the p-type semiconductor layer (160) and a reflecting layer (220b), the first electrode (200) is provided with a crystalline first transparent electrode layer (210) and a non-crystalline second transparent electrode layer (220a). The crystalline first transparent electrode layer (210) increases adhesion with the p-type semiconductor layer (160), and the non-crystalline second transparent electrode layer (220a) suppresses delamination of the reflecting layer (220b). Also, the first transparent electrode layer (210) and the second transparent electrode layer (220a) transmit light emitted from the light-emitting layer and suppress degradation of reflective characteristics. In this way, delamination of the reflecting layer and degradation of reflective characteristics are suppressed in a semiconductor light-emitting element mounted using flip-chip (FC) mounting.
US08629472B2 Light-emitting device, electronic device, and lighting device
A light energy reuse type light-emitting device with low power consumption is provided by converting light from a light-emitting device into electric power efficiently for reuse. Also, a light energy reuse type light-emitting device with high yield is provided. A light-blocking film of the light-emitting device is replaced to a photoelectric conversion element, so that light is converted into electric power. That is, conventionally, light is not emitted in a portion of a light-blocking film. In the disclosed invention, light which is not emitted can be converted into electric power by a photoelectric conversion element, and can be reused. Therefore, a light-emitting device with low power consumption is realized.
US08629471B2 Light emitting diode
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to light emitting diodes including a plurality of light emitting cells on a substrate to be suitable for AC driving. The light emitting diode includes a substrate and a plurality of light emitting cell formed on the substrate. Each light emitting cell includes a first region at a boundary of the light emitting cell and a second region opposite to the first region. A first electrode pad is formed in the first region of the light emitting cell. A second electrode pad having a linear shape is disposed to face the first electrode pad while regionally defining a peripheral region together with the boundary of the second region. A wire connects the first electrode pad to the second electrode pad between two adjacent light emitting cells.
US08629469B2 LED assembly with a protective frame
The invention relates to an LED assembly comprising a carrier (T, T′), at least one LED chip (2, 102) which is arranged on the carrier (T, T′), the LED chip (2, 102) being connected to at least one bonding wire (3, 103), a transparent layer (8, 108) applied over the LED chip (2, 102) and a frame (4, 104) which surrounds the at least one LED chip (2, 102). The frame (4, 104) comprises at least one web (5, 105) so as to divide the frame (4, 104) into at least a first frame region (6, 106), which comprises the at least one LED chip (2, 102), and at least a second frame region (7, 107). The first frame region (6, 106) laterally delimits the layer (8, 108) and the second frame region (7, 107) forms a protective region for the at least one bonding wire (3, 103). By means of the assembly according to the invention, an LED assembly can be achieved which is of simple construction, can be easily assembled and also effectively protects the bonding wires against mechanical influences.
US08629468B2 Method for manufacturing light emitting device and light emitting device
A method for manufacturing a light emitting device, includes: preparing a first substrate by slicing a single crystal ingot pulled in a pulling direction tilted with respect to a first plane orientation, the slicing being in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pulling direction; preparing a second substrate including a major surface having a plane orientation substantially parallel to a plane orientation of a major surface of the first substrate; growing a stacked unit as a crystal on the major surface of the second substrate, the stacked unit including a light emitting layer; and removing the second substrate after bonding the stacked unit and the major surface of the first substrate by heating them in a joined state. A plane orientation of the major surface of the first substrate and a plane orientation of the major surface of the second substrate are one or another selected from a plane tilted from a (100) plane toward a [011] direction and a plane tilted from a (−100) plane toward a [0-1-1] direction, respectively.
US08629461B2 Light receiving and emitting device
A light emitting device includes: a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit which are provided on a same substrate, wherein the light emitting unit includes an active layer sandwiched between a first clad layer and a second clad layer, a first electrode electrically connected to the first clad layer, and a second electrode electrically connected to the second clad layer.
US08629459B2 Multi-element LED lamp package
A light emitting diode device (e.g., LED package) may include at least two light emitting devices that can be switched independently of one another and thus may be useful in vehicular lighting applications, for example low and high beam headlights. A LED device may include a first LED die and at least one additional LED die disposed at different positions within a common reflector cup or relative to a common lens. Multiple LED sub-assemblies may be mounted to a common lead frame along non-coincident principal axes. Methods for varying intensity or color from multi-LED lamps are further provided.
US08629456B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate made of silicon carbide and having a surface, a normal vector for the surface having an off angle with respect to a <0001> direction or a <000-1> direction, a semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type formed on the semiconductor substrate, a first semiconductor region of a second conductivity type formed in a surface region of the semiconductor layer, a source region of a first conductivity type formed in a surface region of the first semiconductor region, a second semiconductor region of a second conductivity type formed in the surface region of the semiconductor layer, contacting the first semiconductor region, and having a bottom surface lower than a bottom surface of the first semiconductor region, wherein at least one end of the bottom surface of the second semiconductor region is perpendicular to an off angle direction.
US08629454B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes: a nitride semiconductor layer; a source electrode, a gate electrode and a drain electrode; an insulating layer covering at least the gate electrode and a part of the nitride semiconductor layer; and a field plate on the insulating layer, a width of a region of the field plate between an edge of the field plate of a side of the drain electrode and an edge of the side face of the insulating layer covering a side face of the gate electrode of a side of the drain electrode being 0.1 μm or more, a distance between an edge of the field plate and an edge of the drain electrode in a contact face between the nitride semiconductor layer and the drain electrode being 3.5 μm or more, an operating frequency of the semiconductor device being 4 GHz or less.
US08629451B2 Display device
A display device for improving an aperture ratio of the pixel is provided. In the display device, a transparent oxide layer, an insulating film, and a conductive layer are sequentially stacked on a pixel region on a substrate, the conductive layer has a gate electrode of a thin film transistor connected to a gate signal line, and a region of the transparent oxide layer other than at least a channel region portion directly below the gate electrode is converted into an electrically conductive region, and a source signal line, a source region portion of the thin film transistor connected to the source signal line, a pixel electrode, and a drain region portion of the thin film transistor connected to the pixel electrode are formed from the conductive region.
US08629448B2 Flat panel display device and method of manufacturing the same
A flat panel display device including a substrate including first and second regions; an active layer on the first region of the substrate including a semiconductor material; a lower electrode on the second region of the substrate including the semiconductor material; a first insulating layer on the substrate including the active layer and the lower electrode thereon; a gate electrode on the first insulating layer overlying the active layer and including a first conductive layer pattern and a second conductive layer pattern; an upper electrode on the first insulating layer overlying the lower electrode and including the first conductive layer pattern and the second conductive layer pattern; a second insulating layer on the gate electrode and the upper electrode exposing portions of the active layer and portions of the upper electrode; and a source electrode and a drain electrode connected to the exposed portions of the active layer.
US08629446B2 Devices formed from a non-polar plane of a crystalline material and method of making the same
Materials, methods, structures and device including the same can provide a semiconductor device such as an LED using an active region corresponding to a non-polar face or surface of III-V semiconductor crystalline material. In some embodiments, an active diode region contains more non-polar III-V material oriented to a non-polar plane than III-V material oriented to a polar plane. In other embodiments, a bottom region contains more non-polar m-plane or a-plane surface area GaN than polar c-plane surface area GaN facing an active region.
US08629439B2 Light emitting device, method of preparing the same and device for fabricating the same
A light emitting device having a high definition, a high aperture ratio and a high reliability is provided. The present invention realizes a high definition and a high aperture ratio for a flat panel display of full colors using luminescent colors of red, green and blue without being dependent upon the film formation method and deposition precision of an organic compound layer by forming the laminated sections 21, 22 by means of intentionally and partially overlapping different organic compound layers of adjacent light emitting elements. Moreover, the protective film 32a containing hydrogen is formed and the drawback in the organic compound layer is terminated with hydrogen, thereby realizing the enhancement of the brightness and the reliability.
US08629436B2 Backside only contact thin-film solar cells and devices, systems and methods of fabricating same, and products produced by processes thereof
Systems, methods, devices, and products of processes consistent with the innovations herein relate to thin-film solar cells having contacts on the backside, only. In one exemplary implementation, there is provided a thin film device. Moreover, such device may comprise a substrate, and a layer of silicon or silicon-containing material positioned on a first side of the substrate, wherein the layer comprises a n-doped region and a p-doped region. In some exemplary implementations, the device may be fabricated such that the n-doped region and the p-doped region are formed on the backside surface of the layer to create an electrical structure characterized by a P-type anode and an N-type cathode forming a junction positioned along the backside surface of the layer.
US08629433B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
An object is to provide a method for manufacturing, with high yield, a semiconductor device having a crystalline semiconductor layer even if a substrate with low upper temperature limit. A groove is formed in a part of a semiconductor substrate to form a semiconductor substrate that has a projecting portion, and a bonding layer is formed to cover the projecting portion. In addition, before the bonding layer is formed, a portion of the semiconductor substrate to be the projecting portion is irradiated with accelerated ions to form a brittle layer. After the bonding layer and the supporting substrate are bonded together, heat treatment for separation of the semiconductor substrate is performed to provide a semiconductor layer over the supporting substrate. The semiconductor layer is selectively etched, and a semiconductor element is formed and a semiconductor device is manufactured.
US08629425B2 Tunable wavelength light emitting diode
A light emitting diode and a method of fabricating a light emitting diode, the diode has a first set of multiple quantum wells (MQWs), each of the MQWs of the first set comprising a wetting layer providing nucleation sites for quantum dots (QDs) or QD-like structures in a well layer of said each MQW; and a second set of MQWs, each of the MQWs of the second set formed so as to exhibit a photoluminescence (PL) peak wavelength shifted compared to the MQWs of the first set.
US08629419B2 Method and apparatus for reading out X-ray information stored in storage phosphor plate
A method and to a corresponding apparatus reads out X-ray information stored in a storage phosphor plate (1), the storage phosphor plate (1) being irradiated with stimulation light (3) and so being stimulated into emitting emission light which is collected by a detector (9) during several measuring times and being converted into corresponding emission light signals (S, R). In order to guarantee high reliability when examining sensitivity fluctuations, in particular with different types of detectors, provision is made such that reference measurements are taken by the detector (9) during several reference measuring times and several reference signals are thus produced, the individual reference measuring times falling respectively between the measuring times, and the reference signals being used for examining the sensitivity of the detector (9) to emission light.
US08629408B2 Overlapping detector elements of a detector array for a radiation system
One or more techniques and/or systems described herein provide for creating detector elements that are configured to be overlaid, such that at least a portion of gap between two detector elements is situated in a plane that is not parallel to a plane through which primary radiation travels. That is, a first detector element comprises a portion that is configured to overlap a portion of a second detector element. The detector element(s) may be direct conversion or indirect conversion detector elements. Moreover, one or more electrodes may be placed within the gap and/or along an edge of the detector element to assist in the movement of charge generated by a charge producing portion of the detector element.
US08629406B2 Radiation detection element and radiographic imaging apparatus
The present invention provides a radiation detecting element and a radiographic imaging device that may reliably detect irradiation of radiation even when a region where radiation is irradiated is set narrowly. Namely, the present invention provides a radiation detection element and a radiographic imaging apparatus, in which radiographic imaging pixels and radiation detection pixels are provided at intersecting portions of scan lines and signal lines.
US08629401B2 Method and device for determining the adsorption of a gas on materials
The invention relates to a method and to an apparatus for determining the adsorption of a gas at materials. It is the object of the invention to propose possibilities for the determining of the surface properties of materials in which statements can be obtained and very small sample volumes can be examined with sufficient measurement precision, with a reduced technical plant effort and with a reduced time effort. In the invention, a sample of a material is acted on by a gas or gas mixture within a chamber which is not transparent for electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range between 150 nm and 25 μm. The gas or at least a gas included in a gas mixture is adsorbed at the surface of the sample and in this respect the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sample as a consequence of the adsorption is detected by at least one optical detector which is sensitive at least in a range of the wavelength range between 150 nm and 25 μm. The measured signals of the detector(s) are in this respect detected with time resolution and are evaluated within a predefinable time interval for determining the surface temperature and/or the adsorption heat of the respective sample varying due to the adsorption.
US08629395B2 Charged particle beam apparatus
In order to provide a charged particle beam apparatus that can detect charged particle beam signals in discrimination into a plurality of energy bands, and obtain high-resolution images for each of the energy bands using the signals, the charged particle beam apparatus has a charged particle source (12-1); an aperture (16) that limits the diameter of the charged particle beam (4); optics (14, 17, 19) for the charged particle beam; a specimen holder (21); a charged particle detector (40) that detects secondary charged particles and reflected charged particles from a specimen; and signal calculation unit that processes the output signal from the charged particle detector. The charged particle detector (40) is provided with a first small detector (51) having a first detection sensitivity and a second small detector (52) having a second detection sensitivity, and makes the detection solid angle viewed from a position on the specimen, to which the charged particle beam (4) is to be radiated, to be the same for the first small detector (51) and the second small detector (52).
US08629385B2 Solid-state imaging element and driving method of the solid-state imaging element
Disclosed herein is a solid-state imaging element including: (A) a light reception/charge storage region formed in a semiconductor layer, the light reception/charge storage region including M light reception/charge storage layers stacked one on top of the other, where M≧2; (B) a charge output region formed in the semiconductor layer; (C) a conduction/non-conduction control region which includes a portion of the semiconductor layer located between the light reception/charge storage region and the charge output region; and (D) a conduction/non-conduction control electrode adapted to control the conduction or non-conduction state of the conduction/non-conduction control region, wherein mth potential control electrodes are provided between the mth and (m+1)th light reception/charge storage layers, where 1≦m≦(M−1), to control the potentials of the light reception/charge storage layers.
US08629384B1 Photomultiplier tube optimized for surface inspection in the ultraviolet
Disclosed herein is a PhotoMultiplier Tube (PMT) designed for use with a surface inspection system such as the Surfscan system, which operates at 266 nm wavelength. The inventive PMT is high efficiency, low noise, and low gain, a combination of features that is specific to the application and contrary to the features of PMT's in the art. The inventive PMT is designed to be tuned to a specific narrow band wavelength of incident light, thereby optimizing the QE at that wavelength. It is further designed to combine a small number of dynodes each having substantially higher secondary electron gain than typical dynodes. By designing the PMT in this way, the excess noise factor is dramatically reduced, yielding a much improved S/N, while still maintaining the overall PMT gain in the lower range suitable for use in a surface inspection system.
US08629371B2 Method and apparatus for fine particle liquid suspension feed for thermal spray system and coatings formed therefrom
A method and apparatus by which liquid feedstock suspensions containing fine particles, micron- and nano-sized, are injected, with sufficient droplet velocity, preferably axially, into a plume of a thermal spray apparatus for the production of high-quality nanostructured coatings allows complete entrainment of the droplets in the plume, while the injection orifice remains potentially blockage-free for long periods of operation. The method and apparatus permit delivery at a low flow rate and with sufficient velocity to permit effective deposition, while reducing obstructions for a suspension feedstock delivery system and permits suspension feedstock to be controlled and delivered with reduced sensitivity of the spray process on the injection conditions to enable production of nanostructured coatings.
US08629364B2 Method for implementing capacitive sensing in the presence of conductive decorative materials
A control panel is disclosed. The control panel includes an electrically conductive substrate having a front surface. A first dielectric layer is disposed on the front surface of the substrate. A first electrode layer is disposed on a front surface of the first dielectric layer, wherein the first dielectric layer electrically isolates the first electrode layer from the substrate. The first electrode layer is in electrical communication with a switch circuit adapted to detect a change in a capacitance of the first electrode layer. A substantially transparent film can be provided to cover the electrode. The front surface of the substrate is a decorative surface substantially visible through the first dielectric layer, the first electrode layer, and the film.
US08629352B2 Enameled insulated wire and manufacturing method thereof
There is provided an enameled insulated wire, which includes: a metal conductor; an intermediate layer around the metal conductor, the intermediate layer containing metal oxide particles, the metal oxide particles including at least one oxide selected from a group consisting of zinc oxides, tin oxides, compound oxides of zinc and the metal constituent of the metal conductor, and compound oxides of tin and the metal constituent of the metal conductor, diameter of the metal oxide particles being predominantly from 1 to 50 nm; and an insulation coating around the intermediate layer.
US08629340B1 Drum mounting and tuning system providing unhindered and isolated resonance
Some embodiments provide a drum structural framework comprising a top shell mount, bottom shell mount, rod holders, and tension rods. The top shell mount and bottom shell mount are mounted to either ending edge of a drum shell disposed between the two mounts. A first set of the rod holders are coupled to the top shell mount and an aligned second set of the rod holders are coupled to the bottom shell mount. The tension rods link the two sets of rod holders without hindering resonance of the drum shell. Tuning assemblies on the rod holders adjust the distance separating the top shell mount from the bottom shell mount, thereby controlling the force imposed on the drum shell. Each rod holder includes one or more dampeners that isolate energy passing from the drumhead to the shell from also reverberating throughout the structural framework of the tension rods and rod holders.
US08629335B1 Maize variety hybrid X6K291
A novel maize variety designated X6K291 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 hybrid maize variety X6K291 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X6K291 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X6K291, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X6K291. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X6K291.
US08629333B1 Soybean variety XB48T10
A novel soybean variety, designated XB48T10 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB48T10, cells from soybean variety XB48T10, plants of soybean XB48T10, and plant parts of soybean variety XB48T10. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB48T10 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic, mutant trait, and/or native trait into soybean variety XB48T10, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB48T10. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB48T10 are further provided.
US08629331B2 Soybean cultivar 7113111
A soybean cultivar designated 7113111 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 7113111, to the plants of soybean 7113111, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 7113111 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 7113111 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 7113111, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 7113111 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 7113111 with another soybean cultivar.
US08629329B2 Self-compatible, rapid-cycling Brassica rapa plants lacking inbreeding depression
The invention provides Brassica rapa plants and seeds thereof that are self-compatible, rapid-cycling and lack inbreeding depression. For instance, the invention provides plants and seeds of the Brassica rapa line designated B3. The invention thus relates to plants, seeds and tissue cultures of Brassica rapa plants that are self-compatible, rapid-cycling and lack inbreeding depression, such as Brassica rapa line B3, and methods to produce and propagate said plants by crossing such a Brassica rapa plant with itself, or another Brassica rapa plant. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. Educational materials, such as a kit comprising said Brassica rapa plants are also provided by the invention.
US08629325B2 Polypeptides having beta-glucosidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having beta-glucosidase activity, beta-xylosidase activity, or beta-glucosidase and beta-xylosidase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides.
US08629313B2 Hybrid flare apparatus and method
A method of operating a flare assembly is provided. If it is determined that the injection of primary steam into the combustion zone is necessary to achieve smokeless operation, primary steam is injected through a steam injector assembly into the combustion zone. If it is determined that steam is not necessary, an alternative gas is discharged though the steam injector assembly into the combustion zone. In one embodiment, the alternative gas is heated. In another embodiment, if it is determined that steam is necessary, a maximum allowable flow rate of steam is calculated, and the flow rate of steam is modulated to achieve smokeless operation and avoid a flow rate of steam in excess of the maximum allowable flow rate of steam. A flare assembly is also provided.
US08629301B2 Process for the purification of benzphetamine hydrochloride
The present invention relates to the economical and separation of benzphetamine hydrochloride and methamphetamine by liquid extraction. An extraction process employing a suitable organic solvent and water at a pH in the range of from about 6 to about 8 provides excellent removal of the methamphetamine by dissolution in the water phase while the benzphetamine dissolves in the organic phase. Simple separation of the two phases results in separation of the two amines.
US08629294B2 Borate esters, boron-comprising dopants, and methods of fabricating boron-comprising dopants
Borate esters, boron-comprising dopants, and methods of fabricating boron-comprising dopants are provided herein. In an embodiment, a borate ester comprises boron and silicon wherein the boron is linked to the silicon by alkyl groups that are bonded via ester bonds with both the boron and the silicon. A method of fabricating a boron-comprising dopant comprises providing a borate and transesterifying the borate using a polyol-substituted silicon monomer.
US08629292B2 Stereoselective synthesis of bridged metallocene complexes
The present invention provides methods of making stereo-enriched ansa-metallocene compounds using an unchelated amine compound. Generally, these methods result in a rac:meso isomer selectivity of the stereo-enriched ansa-metallocene compound of greater than 4:1.
US08629291B1 Esterification of biodiesel feedstock with solid heterogeneous catalyst
Process and steps for the production of biodiesel and/or glycerin from feedstock are provided.
US08629280B2 Methods for oligomerizing olefins with chromium pyridine ether catalysts
The present invention provides a method of producing oligomers of olefins, comprising reacting olefins with a catalyst under oligomerization conditions. The catalyst can be the product of the combination of a chromium compound and a pyridyl ether compound. In particular embodiments, the catalyst compound can be used to trimerize or tetramerize ethylene to 1-hexene, 1-octene, or mixtures of 1-hexene and 1-octene.
US08629275B2 AHCY hydrolase inhibitors for treatment of hyper homocysteinemia
The present invention is directed to AHCY inhibitors of formula (I): which are useful in the treatment of diseases characterized by high homocysteine levels, such as Alzheimer's disease. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and to the use of the compounds and compositions in the treatment of diseases characterized by high homocysteine levels.
US08629259B2 Photosynthetic organisms and compositions and methods of generating same
An isolated polynucleotide is provided. The isolated polynucleotide comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding a polypeptide of a Type II reaction center of a photosynthetic organism, the nucleic acid sequence being capable of imparting the type II reaction center with an activity under a temperature range different than that of the type II reaction center endogenous to the photosynthetic organism. Also provided are methods of using the sequences for generating photosynthetic organisms or tailor-made thermotolerance.
US08629253B2 Human aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase polypeptides useful for the regulation of angiogenesis
Nucleic acids encoding tRNA synthetase polypeptides useful for regulating angiogenesis are disclosed. Methods of making and using such nucleic acids are also disclosed.
US08629251B2 Specific detection and quantification of phosphatidic acid using an Arabidopsis trigalactosyldiacylglycerol-4 (TGD4) protein
The present invention is related to the field of phospholipid detection. In particular, certain embodiments provide the detection of phosphatidic acid. For example, certain proteins are capable of binding phosphatidic acid and can be used as a diagnostic and/or research tool to identify and quantitate phosphatidic acid. Phosphatidic acid may be in or from cells and tissues isolated from plants, animals and humans. For example, a trigalactosyldiacylglycerol-2 (TGD2) protein may be fused with a fluorescent probe to monitor and measure phosphatidic acid in vitro as well as in vivo. In other embodiments, a trigalactosyldiacylglycerol-4 (TGD4) protein may be fused with a fluorescent probe to monitor and measure phosphatidic acid in vitro as well as in vivo. In additional embodiments, a fragment comprising either a truncated TGD2 or TGD4 phosphatidic acid binding region protein may be used to monitor or measure phosphatidic acid.
US08629250B2 Hepcidin, hepcidin antagonists and methods of use
The invention relates to purified, correctly folded hepcidin, antibodies that bind hepcidin, and methods of making and using such materials. Also provide are methods of treated hepcidin-related disorders.
US08629237B2 Simplified production of nylon-6
A process for producing polyamides from the corresponding monomers and/or prepolymers comprises the steps of (a) reacting the monomers and/or prepolymers and optionally further components under polyamide-forming reaction conditions to form polyamide, (b) treating the polyamide obtained in step (a) in a kneader above the melting temperature of the polyamide, (c) further processing the polyamide from step (b) into pellet, film, fiber or moldings, preferably pelletizing the polyamide, (d) extracting some or all unconverted monomers and any product dimers and oligomers and also optionally further components from the polyamide and/or drying the polyamide.
US08629234B2 Process for synthesizing a new catalyst complex for the production of polyethylene terephthlate
This invention relates to a process of preparing a catalyst for the production of polyethylene terephthalate and for the production of high molecular weight PET comprising: a) reacting boric acid and a zinc salt in a solvent comprising at least one glycol selected from ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and butylene glycol thereby forming a precipitate; and b) isolating the precipitate. In addition, the use of the catalyst for the production of polyethylene terephthalate and for the production of high molecular weight PET is disclosed.
US08629233B2 Phenyl ester side chains to increase polymer resorptivity
The present invention relates to polymers modified to increase their resorbability. In particular, the polymers of the invention have phenyl ester side chains which are good leaving groups and which thereby increase the resorption rate of the polymer relative to the same polymer, for example, bearing a comparable amount of an alkyl ester side chain. Such polymers are generally water insoluble, but when modified are able to solublize drugs and upon degradation and resorption, release those in a physiological environment in a controlled and/or sustained manner.
US08629232B2 Polymeric materials
A polymeric material includes phenyl moieties, ketone moieties and ether moieties in the polymeric backbone of said polymeric material, wherein the difference between the nucleation temperature (Tn) and the glass transition temperature (Tg) of said polymeric material is greater than 23° C.
US08629231B2 Methods of making oligomers, coating compositions containing them, and coated articles
An oligomer is made by capping a uretdione compound of structure with a compound (II) having an active hydrogen and a carbamate or cyclic carbonate group under conditions in which the isocyanate groups but not the uretdione group react. The product (III) is either reacted with a reactant having at least two active hydrogens under reaction conditions that cleave the uretdione ring, after which any cyclic carbonate groups may be converted to carbamate groups, or a product (III) having cyclic carbonate groups is reacted with ammonia or primary amine to provide uretdione with a hydroxy carbamate group that is then self-condensed under uretdione ring-opening conditions. A curable coating composition comprises the oligomer; a coated article is prepared by applying a layer of the curable coating composition and curing the applied layer.
US08629228B2 Ionomer compositions for golf balls
Certain disclosed embodiments of the present invention concern a golf ball, including a core having a center, an outer cover layer, and optionally one or more intermediate layers, where at least one or more of the core, outer cover layer, or one or more intermediate layers if present, includes an isobutylene maleic anhydride copolymer having the general formula where n is greater than 10 and having a weight average molecular weight Mw of greater than about 2,000. The present invention also relates to golf ball including a core having a center, an outer cover layer; and optionally one or more intermediate layers, where at least one or more of the core, outer cover layer, or one or more intermediate layers if present, includes an isobutylene maleic anhydride ionomer formed by hydrolysis and neutralization of the isobutylene maleic anhydride copolymer.
US08629226B2 Retardation film, and organic EL display device and liquid crystal display device using the same
A retardation film, formed by stretching a film having a norbornene-based ring-opening copolymer containing a structural unit (A) represented by the general formula (1) and a structural unit (B) represented by the general formula (2), wherein the content of structural unity (A) is not less than 5 mol % but not more than 95 mol % relative to the total amount of structural units (A) and (B).
US08629219B2 Epoxy resin compound, preparation method thereof, prepreg made therefrom, and copper cladded laminate made therefrom
The present invention relates to an epoxy resin compound, a preparation method thereof, a prepreg made therefrom, and a copper cladded laminate made therefrom. The epoxy resin compound comprises: 30-80 parts by weight of epoxy resin; 20-50 parts by weight of polyphenylene ether resin of new structure with the number average molecular weight thereof being 1000-5000, which is prepared via the redistribution reaction of polyphenylene ether and phenolic resin with the existing of initiator agent; 0-50 parts by weight of filler; 1-20 parts by weight of ingredient. The epoxy resin compound of the present invention, has good heat resistance and dielectric property, and has a simple preparation process, which is good for batch production. Besides, the laminate material and copper cladded laminate of the present invention, which are made from the above mentioned epoxy resin compound, are used in printed circuit boards to have good heat resistance, dielectric property, and machinability, so as to be good for the signal transmission of a high-frequency PCB.
US08629218B2 Curable film-forming compositions containing ortho-hydroxyl aromatic functional acrylic polymers
The present invention is directed to curable film-forming compositions comprising a film-forming resin and a crosslinking agent. The film-forming resin contains a polymer having functional aromatic groups derived from functional aromatic acids. The present invention further provides multi-component composite coating compositions comprising a first film-forming composition applied to a substrate to form a primer or base coat, and a second film-forming composition applied on top of the primer or base coat to form a top coat, the top coat comprising the composition described above. Coating compositions prepared from the curable compositions of the present invention demonstrate superior gloss and acid etch resistance properties, making them ideally suited for automotive applications.
US08629213B2 Composition including a mixture of elastomer and supramolecular polymer
The invention relates to a composition including at least one elastomer and at least one supramolecular polymer. The supramolecular polymer is obtained by the reaction of at least one trifunctional compound (A), having first and second functions, with: at least one compound (B) having at least one reactive group capable of reacting with the first functions of (A) and at least one associative group; and at least one at least bifunctional compound (C) having functions capable of reacting with the second functions of compound (A) in order to form ester, thioester and amide bridges.
US08629193B2 Method for producing porous silicon molded bodies
Thin porous moldings of silicone copolymers, suitable for use as membranes in separation processes, are prepared by forming a solution or suspension of silicone copolymer in two solvents L1 and L2, casting the suspension or solution, and removing solvent L1 to form a silicone copolymer rich phase A, effecting structure formation, and then removing solvent L2 and residues of solvent L2 to form a thin porous molding.
US08629189B1 Nanofilaments of catalytic materials for chemical process improvements
A Fischer-Tropsch process including the steps of providing a reactor having a substrate element with a surface and a plurality of elongated micro-structures of catalyst material attached to the substrate surface The catalyst material includes at least one of cobalt, iron, or ruthenium and the micro-structures have a width of less than about 1 um and a length at least five times the width. A carbon compound and hydrogen are injected into the reactor such that at least a portion of the carbon compound and hydrogen contact the catalyst material. The carbon compound and hydrogen are reacted with the catalyst at a temperature between about 150° F. and about 400° F.
US08629187B2 Cellulose fine particles, and liquid or solid dispersion thereof
An object of the present invention is to provide cellulose fine particles having a small particle diameter and a high average polymerization degree, and a liquid dispersion or a solid dispersion thereof.The inventive cellulose fine particles have an average particle diameter of 9 to 400 nm and an average polymerization degree (DP) of cellulose of 150 to 3,000.
US08629178B2 Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate hydrate and preparation method and use thereof
The present invention relates to sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate hydrates as well as preparation methods and uses thereof. The sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate hydrates have molecular formla of C19H17NaO6S.nH2O, wherein n=0.5-4.0. The sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate hydrates of the present invention have better storage stability than anhydrous sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate.
US08629177B2 Nanoencapsulated delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to articles of manufacture and methods of making such articles having utility for the delivery of cannabinoids as a therapeutic. One embodiment of the present invention directed to the article of manufacture comprises a lyophilized particle or sphere having a diameter of about 100 to 500 nanometers having a shell and comprising a biodegradable polymer containing a cannabinoid. A featured cannabinoid is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC).
US08629175B2 Functional food additives
Novel compounds, and in particular to diacylglycerol (1,3-DAG) and alpha-lipoic acid (LA) and/or dihydro-alpha-lipoic acid (DHLA) derivatives. In particular these novel compounds are used as functional food additives. These may for example be used as nutraceuticals and/or pharmaceuticals in the prevention and treatment of obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, oxidative stress and other lifestyle-related diseases.
US08629174B2 Unifying mechanism and methods to prevent cancer and neurodegenerative diseases
The present invention relates to methods for preventing the development of cancer or neurodegenerative diseases by administering N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), melatonin, or a combination thereof. The present invention also relates to methods for diagnosing cancer and/or neurdegenerative disease by detecting or determining the amount of dopamine metabolites, 4-CE, 2-CE, methylation of CE or CE-Q conjugates.
US08629173B2 Solid forms comprising (+)-2-[1-(3-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methylsulfonylethyl]-4-acetylaminoisoindoline-1,3-dione, compositions thereof, and uses thereof
Solid forms comprising (+)-2-[1-(3-Ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methylsulfonylethyl]-4-acetylaminoisoindoline-1,3-dione, compositions comprising the solid forms, methods of making the solid forms and methods of their use are disclosed. The methods include methods of treating and/or preventing disorders ameliorated by the reduction of levels of TNF-α or the inhibition of PDE4.
US08629169B2 4-substituted-3-phenylsulfanylmethyl-bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane compounds as mGluR 2/3 antagonists
A mGlu2/3 receptor antagonist of the formula: its uses, and methods for its preparation are described.
US08629168B2 Benzoxazoles and oxazolopyridines being useful as janus kinases inhibitors
The invention relates to 2,7-disubstituted benzoxazole and 2,4-disubstituted oxazolo[5,4-c]pyridine compounds of the formula I given below, as well as salts thereof, processes for the preparation thereof, the application thereof in a process for the treatment of the human or animal body, these compounds for use in the treatment (including prophylaxis) of the animal, especially human, body (especially with regard to a proliferative disease), the use thereof—alone or in combination with one or more other pharmaceutically active compounds—for the treatment especially of a protein tyrosine kinase mediated disease (such as a tumor disease) or for the manufacture of a pharmaceutical preparation for use in the treatment of such a disease, a method for the treatment of such a disease and a pharmaceutical preparation for the treatment of a disease as mentioned. The compounds are of the formula I, wherein the symbols are as defined in the description. The compounds inhibit, for example, JAK2 and JAK3.
US08629160B2 Alkaloid aminoester derivatives and medicinal composition thereof
The present invention relates to alkaloid aminoester compounds which act as muscarinic receptor antagonists, processes for their preparation, compositions comprising them, and therapeutic uses thereof.
US08629152B2 Processes for the preparation of lyophilized pharmaceutically acceptable salts of pemetrexed diacid
Provided are processes for the preparation of lyophilized pharmaceutically acceptable salts of pemetrexed diacid, in particular, pemetrexed disodium salt, directly from pemetrexed diacid or salts thereof, i.e., without isolating the obtained pemetrexed salt prior to lyophilizing it.
US08629150B2 Compounds for the treatment of hepatitis C
The disclosure provides compounds of formula I, including pharmaceutically acceptable salts, as well as compositions and methods of using the compounds. The compounds have activity against hepatitis C virus (HCV) and may be useful in treating those infected with HCV.
US08629148B2 Substituted oxindole-derivatives and the use thereof for the treatment of vasopressin-dependent illnesses
The present invention relates to novel substituted oxindole derivatives of the formula (I), pharmaceutical agents containing said derivatives, and the use thereof for the treatment of vasopressin-dependent illnesses.
US08629141B2 Spiro-oxindole MDM2 antagonists
Provided herein are compounds, compositions, and methods in the field of medicinal chemistry. The compounds and compositions provided herein relate to spiro-oxindoles which function as antagonists of the interaction between p53 and MDM2, and their use as therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and other diseases.
US08629134B2 Enantioselective synthesis of 6-amino-7-hydroxy-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-imidazo[4,5,1-jk][1]-benzazepin-2[1H]-one and zilpaterol
This invention relates to a process for the hydrogenation of a ketooxime to selectively form an aminoalcohol stereoisomer, and, in particular, to a process for the hydrogenation of 4,5-dihydro-imidazo[4,5,1-jk][1]benzazepin-2,6,7[1H]-trione-6-oxime or a salt thereof to selectively form a stereoisomer of 6-amino-7-hydroxy-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-imidazo[4,5,1-jk][1]-benzazepin-2[1H]-one or a salt thereof. This invention also relates to the use of the 6-amino-7-hydroxy-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-imidazo[4,5,1-jk][1]-benzazepin-2[1H]-one hydrogenation product or a salt thereof to selectively make a stereoisomer of zilpaterol or a salt thereof, as well as the use of such a zilpaterol stereoisomer or salt in methods of treatment and medicaments for animals.
US08629122B2 Nucleus pulposus filler
The present invention provides a nucleus pulposus filler or the like which is to be packed into an area in deformed intervertebral disc wherein normal nucleus should be located and can be stabley maintained for a long time More preferably, the present invention provides a nucleus pulposus filler comprising a crosslinked chondroitin sulfate as an active ingredient. The photocrosslinked chondroitin sulfate is preferably the following one: a photocrosslinked chondroitin sulfate obtainable by freezing a photoreactive chondroitin sulfate-containing solution comprising: a photoreactive chondroitin sulfate to which a photoreactive group is bound; an aqueous solvent capable of dissolving the photoreactive chondroitin sulfate; and any one substance selected from the group consisting of an alcohol having aqueous solvent miscibility, a surfactant, and a cheleting agent; irradiating the resulting frozen product with light; and then melting the frozen product. The filler can be provided as a kit by packing it into a container from which the filler can be pushed out.
US08629119B2 Dual targeting of MIR-208 and MIR-499 in the treatment of cardiac disorders
The present invention provides a method of treating or preventing cardiac disorders in a subject in need thereof by inhibiting the expression or function of both miR-499 and miR-208 in the heart cells of the subject. In particular, specific protocols for administering inhibitors of the two miRNAs that achieve efficient, long-term suppression are disclosed. In addition, the invention provides a method for treating or preventing musculoskeletal disorders in a subject in need thereof by increasing the expression or activity of both miR-208 and miR-499 in skeletal muscle cells of the subject.
US08629118B2 Methods of treating a meiotic kinesin associated disease
The invention provides methods of treating a meiotic kinase-associated disease, preferably the meiotic kinase HSET, by administering an inhibitor of the meiotic kinase. Preferably, the disease is associated with the presence of supernumerary centrosomes, such as cancer. Methods of inhibiting the growth of a tumor cell by contacting the cell with an inhibitor of a meiotic kinase, preferably HSET, are also provided. Screening methods for identifying inhibitors of the meiotic kinase HSET are also provided. Methods of selecting subjects for treatment with an inhibitor of a meiotic kinase, such as HSET, are also provided.
US08629111B2 Methods of providing therapeutic effects using cyclosporin components
Methods of treating an eye of a human or animal include administering to an eye of a human or animal a composition in the form of an emulsion including water, a hydrophobic component and a cyclosporin component in a therapeutically effective amount of less than 0.1% by weight of the composition. The weight ratio of the cyclosporin component to the hydrophobic component is less than 0.8.
US08629104B2 G-CSF and water-soluble polymer conjugate
Provided are a G-CSF and water-soluble polymer conjugate, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, comprising a water-soluble polymer, a protein, and a linking group; a method for preparing thereof; and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the same.
US08629102B2 3-hydroxyisothiazole 1-oxide derivatives
[Object]To provide a GPR40 activating agent containing, as an active ingredient, a novel compound having a GPR40 agonist action, a salt of the compound, a solvate of the compound or the salt, or the like, particularly, an insulin secretagogue and a prophylactic and/or therapeutic agent against diabetes, obesity, or other diseases.[Means of Solving the Problem]A compound of Formula (I): (where p is 0 to 4; j is 0 to 2; k is 0 to 1; a ring A is an aryl group, a heterocyclic group, a cycroalkyl group, a cycroalkenyl group, a spirocyclic group; a ring B is an aryl group, a heteroaryl group; X is O or —NR7—; and R1 to R7 and L are specific groups), a salt of the compound, or a solvate of the compound or the salt.
US08629101B2 Cholesterol derivatives of inhibitors of viral fusion
The present invention relates to compounds comprising at least ten contigous amino acids of the HR2 domain of a Type 1 viral fusogenic protein of an enveloped virus, or a derivative thereof, attached at the C-terminal to cholesterol or a derivative thereof; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof which inhibit viral fusion. Thus compounds of the invention are useful to prevent or treat diseases caused by an enveloped virus.
US08629098B2 Compositions and methods for adoptive and active immunotherapy
Modular aAPCs and methods of their manufacture and use are provided. The modular aAPCs are constructed from polymeric microparticles. The aAPCs include encapsulated cytokines and coupling agents which modularly couple functional elements including T cell receptor activators, co-stimulatory molecules and adhesion molecules to the particle. The ability of these aAPCs to release cytokines in a controlled manner, coupled with their modular nature and ease of ligand attachment, results in an ideal, tunable APC capable of stimulating and expanding primary T cells.
US08629095B2 Liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition comprising polyurethane foam abrasive particles
The present invention relates to a liquid, cleaning and/or cleansing composition comprising abrasive cleaning particles.
US08629084B2 Iodine-phenyl-substituted cyclic cetoenols
The invention relates to novel iodophenyl-substituted cyclic ketenols of the formula (I) in which CKE, J, X and Y are as defined above, to a plurality of processes and intermediates for their preparation and to their use as pesticides and/or herbicides, and also to selective herbicidal compositions comprising firstly iodophenyl-substituted cyclic ketonols of the formula (I) and secondly at least one crop plant compatibility-improving compound.
US08629074B2 Zeolite honeycomb structure
The zeolite honeycomb structure is constituted of a zeolite raw material containing zeolite particles, noble metal loaded catalyst carriers containing a noble metal loaded onto catalyst carriers, and an inorganic binding material in a honeycomb shape. An average particle diameter of the noble metal loaded catalyst carriers is ten or more times an average particle diameter of the zeolite particles. Moreover, the noble metal loaded catalyst carriers are contained in an amount corresponding to a volume ratio which is from 5 to 25 vol % with respect to 100 vol % of the zeolite particles, and the noble metal is loaded onto the noble metal loaded catalyst carriers in an amount corresponding to a mass ratio which is from 0.2 to 2.0 mass % with respect to 100 mass % of the zeolite particles in the zeolite honeycomb structure.
US08629072B2 Boron-free glass
The invention discloses boron-free neutral glasses having the composition (in % by weight, based on oxide) 65-72 SiO2, 11-17 Al2O3, 0.1-8 Na2O, 3-8 MgO, 4-12 CaO and 0-10 ZnO, a ratio CaO/MgO of 1.4 to 1.6, and having a hydrolytic resistance in accordance with DIN ISO 719 in class 1 and an acid resistance in accordance with DIN 12116 and an alkali resistance in accordance with DIN ISO 695 at least in class 2.
US08629058B2 Methods for via structure with improved reliability
Methods for forming a via structure are provided. The method includes depositing a first-layer conductive line over a semiconductor substrate, forming a dielectric layer over the first-layer conductive line, forming a via opening in the dielectric layer and exposing the first-layer conductive line in the via opening, forming a recess portion in the first-layer conductive line, and filling the via opening to form a via extending through the dielectric layer to the first-layer conductive line. The via has a substantially tapered profile and substantially extends into the recess in the first-layer conductive line.
US08629050B2 E-fuse structure design in electrical programmable redundancy for embedded memory circuit
An electrical fuse and a method of forming the same are presented. A first-layer conductive line is formed over a base material. A via is formed over the first-layer conductive line. The via preferably comprises a barrier layer and a conductive material. A second-layer conductive line is formed over the via. A first external pad is formed coupling to the first-layer conductive line. A second external pad is formed coupling to the second-layer conductive line. The via, the first conductive line and the second conductive line are adapted to be an electrical fuse. The electrical fuse can be burned out by applying a current. The vertical structure of the preferred embodiment is suitable to be formed in any layer.
US08629042B2 Method for stacking semiconductor dies
A system and method for stacking semiconductor dies is disclosed. A preferred embodiment comprises forming through-silicon vias through the wafer, protecting a rim edge of the wafer, and then removing the unprotected portions so that the rim edge has a greater thickness than the thinned wafer. This thickness helps the fragile wafer survive further transport and process steps. The rim edge is then preferably removed during singulation of the individual dies from the wafer.
US08629038B2 FinFETs with vertical fins and methods for forming the same
In a method for forming a device, a (110) silicon substrate is etched to form first trenches in the (110) silicon substrate, wherein remaining portions of the (110) silicon substrate between the first trenches form silicon strips. The sidewalls of the silicon strips have (111) surface orientations. The first trenches are filled with a dielectric material to from Shallow Trench Isolation (STI) regions. The silicon strips are removed to form second trenches between the STI regions. An epitaxy is performed to grow semiconductor strips in the second trenches. Top portions of the STI regions are recessed, and the top portions of the semiconductor strips between removed top portions of the STI regions form semiconductor fins.
US08629035B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming an isolation trench in a substrate, and forming an amorphous layer on a sidewall surface of the isolation trench. The method further includes forming a sacrificial layer in the isolation trench via the amorphous layer, and forming an air gap layer on the sacrificial layer. The method further includes forming an air gap in the isolation trench under the air gap layer by removing the sacrificial layer after forming the air gap layer.
US08629022B2 Asymmetric FET including sloped threshold voltage adjusting material layer and method of fabricating same
A method of forming a semiconductor structure is provided. The method includes providing a structure including at least one dummy gate region located on a surface of a semiconductor substrate and a dielectric material layer located on sidewalls of the at least one dummy gate region. Next, a portion of the dummy gate region is removed exposing an underlying high k gate dielectric. A sloped threshold voltage adjusting material layer is then formed on an upper surface of the high k gate dielectric, and thereafter a gate conductor is formed atop the sloped threshold voltage adjusting material layer.
US08629020B2 Semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same
Provided are a semiconductor device and a method of fabricating the same. The method includes: forming a trench in a semiconductor substrate of a first conductive type; forming a trench dopant containing layer including a dopant of a second conductive type on a sidewall and a bottom surface of the trench; forming a doping region by diffusing the dopant in the trench dopant containing layer into the semiconductor substrate; and removing the trench dopant containing layer.
US08629010B2 Carbon nanotube transistor employing embedded electrodes
Carbon nanotubes can be aligned with compatibility with semiconductor manufacturing processes, with scalability for forming smaller devices, and without performance degradation related to structural damages. A planar structure including a buried gate electrode and two embedded electrodes are formed. After forming a gate dielectric, carbon nanotubes are assembled in a solution on a surface of the gate dielectric along the direction of an alternating current (AC) electrical field generated by applying a voltage between the two embedded electrodes. A source contact electrode and a drain contact electrode are formed by depositing a conductive material on both ends of the carbon nanotubes. Each of the source and drain contact electrodes can be electrically shorted to an underlying embedded electrode to reduce parasitic capacitance.
US08629001B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes: a first semiconductor element having a first terminal surface on which a first terminal is disposed and a first rear surface on which no terminal is disposed; a second semiconductor element having a second terminal surface on which a second terminal is disposed and a second rear surface on which no terminal is disposed, the second rear surface being bonded to the first rear surface; a terminal member having a surface set substantially flush with the second terminal surface; and a conductive wire connecting the terminal member and the first terminal.
US08628999B2 Solar cell made in a single processing chamber
Methods for forming a photovoltaic device include depositing a p-type layer on a substrate and cleaning the p-type layer by exposing a surface of the p-type layer to a plasma treatment to react with contaminants. An intrinsic layer is formed on the p-type layer, and an n-type layer is formed on the intrinsic layer.
US08628996B2 Uniformly distributed self-assembled cone-shaped pillars for high efficiency solar cells
A method for fabricating a photovoltaic device includes applying a diblock copolymer layer on a substrate and removing a first polymer material from the diblock copolymer layer to form a plurality of distributed pores. A pattern forming layer is deposited on a remaining surface of the diblock copolymer layer and in the pores in contact with the substrate. The diblock copolymer layer is lifted off and portions of the pattern forming layer are left in contact with the substrate. The substrate is etched using the pattern forming layer to protect portions of the substrate to form pillars in the substrate such that the pillars provide a radiation absorbing structure in the photovoltaic device.
US08628995B2 Tandem thin-film silicon solar cell and method for manufacturing the same
A tandem thin-film silicon solar cell comprises a transparent substrate, a first unit cell positioned on the transparent substrate, the first unit cell comprising a p-type window layer, an i-type absorber layer and an n-type layer, an intermediate reflection layer positioned on the first unit cell, the intermediate reflection layer including a hydrogenated n-type microcrystalline silicon oxide of which the oxygen concentration is profiled to be gradually increased and a second unit cell positioned on the intermediate reflection layer, the second unit cell comprising a p-type window layer, an i-type absorber layer and an n-type layer.
US08628988B2 Conformal metallization process for the fabrication of semiconductor laser devices
A method of fabricating a semiconductor laser device by forming a semiconductor structure at least part of which is in the form of a mesa structure having a flat top. The steps include depositing a passivation layer over the mesa structure, forming a contact opening in the passivation layer on the flat top of the mesa structure; and depositing a metal contact portion, with the deposited metal contact portion contacting the semiconductor structure via the contact opening. The contact opening formed through the passivation layer has a smaller area than the flat top of the mesa structure to allow for wider tolerances in alignment accuracy. The metal contact portion comprises a platinum layer between one or more gold layers to provide an effective barrier against Au diffusion into the semiconductor material.
US08628985B2 Light emitting devices with improved light extraction efficiency
Light emitting devices with improved light extraction efficiency are provided. The light emitting devices have a stack of layers including semiconductor layers comprising an active region. The stack is bonded to a transparent lens having a refractive index for light emitted by the active region preferably greater than about 1.5, more preferably greater than about 1.8. A method of bonding a transparent lens to a light emitting device having a stack of layers including semiconductor layers comprising an active region includes elevating a temperature of the lens and the stack and applying a pressure to press the lens and the stack together. Bonding a high refractive index lens to a light emitting device improves the light extraction efficiency of the light emitting device by reducing loss due to total internal reflection. Advantageously, this improvement can be achieved without the use of an encapsulant.
US08628984B2 Light-emitting diode (LED) package systems
A package system includes a substrate having at least one first thermally conductive structure through the substrate. At least one second thermally conductive structure is disposed over the at least one first thermally conductive structure. At least one light-emitting diode (LED) is disposed over the at least one second thermally conductive structure.
US08628975B2 Methods and kits using extended rhodamine dyes
Extended rhodamine compounds exhibiting favorable fluorescence characteristics having the structure are disclosed. In addition, novel intermediates for synthesis of these dyes are disclosed, such intermediates having the structure In addition, methods of making and using the dyes as fluorescent labels are disclosed.
US08628969B2 Method for quantification of carotenoid
Provided is a method for quantitative analysis of carotenoids such as β-cryptoxanthin contained in a sample such as citrus fruit or the like which enables simple and accurate quantitative analysis.An internal standard such as lycopene or retinal is used, whereby work is facilitated and an error of a measured value is reduced. Further, a dehydrating agent is added during saponification reaction in the preparation of a sample for analysis, whereby a deviation of a measured value can be reduced.
US08628966B2 CD34-derived recombinant adeno-associated vectors for stem cell transduction and systemic therapeutic gene transfer
Novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) isolates in nucleotide and amino acid forms and uses thereof are provided. The isolates show tropism for certain target tissues, such as blood stem cells, liver, heart and joint tissue, and may be used to transduce stem cells for introduction of genes of interest into the target tissues. Discrete modified portions of the cap gene, VP1, VP2, and VP3, may be used alone or in combination in the present methods.
US08628956B2 Expression vector suitable for expression of a coding sequence for gene therapy
Provided is an expression vector for gene therapy having a novel combination of transcriptional regulatory elements, including a promoter, an enhancer, an intron, an untranslated region (UTR) and a locus control region (LCR). The expression vector enables sustained expression of a liver tissue-specific gene, and thus, can be effectively used for treating thrombosis, hemophilia, liver cancer, etc.
US08628949B2 Apparatus for producing probe carrier
An apparatus for producing a probe carrier in which ambient humidity for a plurality of nozzles of a liquid ejection device for ejecting droplets of solutions containing probes to the surface of a carrier is controlled to 50% or more, preferably 60% or more. A part of solution supply passages to the plurality of nozzles is constructed from gas permeable membranes permitting gas-liquid separation under reduced pressure. These gas permeable membrane portions are gathered and altogether placed under reduced pressure to remove air bubbles from the respective solutions supplied to the plural nozzles and decrease the amount of a dissolved gas, which causes air bubbles to be generated.
US08628946B2 Phl p 5a derivatives having reduced allergeneity and retained T-cell reactivity
The present invention relates to the preparation and use of variants of the group 5 allergen of the Pooideae which are characterized by reduced IgE reactivity compared with the known wild-type allergens and at the same time by substantially retained reactivity with T lymphocytes. These hypoallergenic allergen variants can be employed for the specific immunotherapy (hyposensitization) of patients having grass pollen allergy or for the preventative immunotherapy of grass pollen allergies.
US08628935B2 PON1 as a marker for heart failure
Provided herein are methods for assessing the risk a test subject with heart failure has of experiencing a major adverse cardiac event, requiring revascularization, requiring a heart transplant, requiring unscheduled hospitalization for heart failure, progression of heart failure status, or any combination thereof. Also provided herein are methods for assessing the risk a test subject has of developing heart failure. The present methods comprise determining the levels of paraoxonase 1 activity in the serum, non-chelated plasma, or both in the test subject and comparing the level of PON1 activity in the test subject's sample with a control or baseline value based on levels of PON1 activity in serum, non-chelated plasma, or both samples from a population of control subjects. Also provided herein are kits useful in assessing such risks.
US08628929B2 Methods for detecting cardiac damage
The present invention relates to a method for detecting heart damage in a patient. The invention also relates to methods for treatment of patients identified as having heart damage. The invention further pertains to methods for evaluating the efficacy of an ongoing therapeutic regimen designated to treat a damaged heart in a patient.
US08628927B2 Monitoring health and disease status using clonotype profiles
There is a need for improved methods for determining the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with conditions, including autoimmune disease and cancer, especially lymphoid neoplasms, such as lymphomas and leukemias. Provided herein are methods for using DNA sequencing to identify personalized, or patient-specific biomarkers in patients with lymphoid neoplasms, autoimmune disease and other conditions. Identified biomarkers can be used to determine and/or monitor the disease state for a subject with an associated lymphoid disorder or autoimmune disease or other condition. In particular, the invention provides a sensitive method for monitoring lymphoid neoplasms that undergo clonal evolutions without the need to development alternative assays for the evolved or mutated clones serving as patient-specific biomarkers.
US08628904B2 Carrier, developer for replenishment, developer cartridge for replenishment, and image forming apparatus
The present invention provides a carrier for replenishment including an associated particle in which single particles each having a core material and a resin layer covering the core material, are bound via the resin layer, the carrier being used in a developer for replenishment of a trickle development system, and the system including performing development while the developer for replenishment is replenished, upon development of a latent image on a latent image holding member using a development unit.
US08628902B2 Polyester resin for toner, toner, developer, toner cartridge, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A polyester resin for a toner containing: a repeating unit derived from a dicarboxylic acid component; and a repeating unit derived from a diol component represented by Formula (1): wherein each of R1 and R2 independently represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, each of L1, L2 and L3 independently represents a divalent linking group selected from the group consisting of carbonyl groups, ester groups, ether groups, sulfonyl groups, substituted or unsubstituted chained alkylene groups, substituted or unsubstituted cyclic alkylene groups, substituted or unsubstituted arylene groups, and combinations thereof, L1 and L2 or L1 and L3 optionally forms a ring, and each of A1 and A2 independently represents a rosin ester group.
US08628899B2 azo compound, and pigment dispersant, pigment composition, pigment dispersion and toner including the AZO compound
There is provided an azo compound for improvement in the dispersibility of an azo pigment into a water-insoluble solvent. The azo compound is represented by the following general formula (1):
US08628895B2 Hyper-branched polymer, electrode including the polymer, electrolyte membrane including the polymer, and fuel cell including the electrode and/or the electrolyte membrane
A hyper-branched polymer that has a dendritic unit, a linear unit, a terminal unit, and a degree of branching of about 0.05 to about 1. The hyper-branched polymer can be included in an electrode and/or an electrolyte membrane of a fuel cell.
US08628889B2 Operating method of anion-exchange membrane-type fuel cell
A stable, high output is obtained with an anion exchange membrane-type fuel cell that generates electricity when air is supplied. An operating method for an anion exchange membrane-type fuel cell includes an anion exchange membrane electrode assembly for which an anode is joined to one surface of a anion exchange membrane and a cathode is joined to the other surface, and air is supplied to the cathode, wherein air with a reduced carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere is supplied to the cathode by a low carbon dioxide air supply system that supplies air with the reduced carbon dioxide concentration to the cathode.
US08628888B2 Fuel cell system and control method for fuel cell system
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell generating electricity through reaction between fuel and oxidant gases; an air compressor supplying air, as the oxidant gas, to the fuel cell; a shut-off valve interrupting exhaust of air as fuel cell exhaust gas; an air flow meter measuring the flow rate of air supplied to the fuel cell; a pressure sensor measuring a supplied air pressure; and a control unit controlling power generation reaction of the fuel cell, calculating a first calculated air flow rate based on a value measured by the air flow meter and a second calculated air flow rate based on a system volume from the air compressor to the shut-off valve, an air pressure increase in the system volume, calculated based on a value measured by the pressure sensor, and an atmospheric pressure, and calculating a ratio of the second to first calculated air flow rates.
US08628870B2 Secondary battery
Disclosed is a secondary battery comprising: a bare cell; a protection circuit module having a board having a first hole formed by opening a portion of a first short edge thereof and located on the bare cell; and a first lead plate located between the bare cell and the protection circuit module to support portions of the board located on opposite sides of the first hole about the first hole thereby.
US08628865B2 Method for producing sheets from renewable raw materials in a continuous process and sheet of renewable raw materials
The invention relates to a method for producing a sheet from renewable raw materials. In the method, after mixing a composition to produce a sheet from renewable raw materials, this composition is applied to a conveyor belt. Protruding materials or unevennesses are eliminated with the aid of a device, preferably a simple doctor blade. Without supplying heat, the composition is then subjected to a first drying process on the conveyor belt, before the endless sheet created in this way is cut into sections. The sections are then passed on to final drying in a storage device. After complete drying, regions at the extremities of the sections that have been adversely affected by cutting up the endless sheet are removed from these sections and chopped up into chips. These chips are returned to the further production process in a final method step by feeding them into the composition for producing a sheet from renewable raw materials.
US08628863B2 Indenopyrene compound and organic light-emitting device using the compound
Provided is an organic light-emitting device having an optical output with high luminance and high color purity with extremely high efficiency. The organic light-emitting device includes an organic layer between the anode and the cathode, in which one of the anode and the cathode is a transparent electrode or a semi-transparent electrode and at least one layer of the organic layer contains at least one kind of indenopyrene compound having a specific structure.
US08628858B2 Silicone rubber composition for optical sheet, and optical sheet
Disclosed is a millable type silicone rubber composition including as an essential components: (A) 100 parts by weight of an organopolysiloxane represented by the following average compositional formula (I) and having a polymerization degree of at least 100; R1aSiO(4-a)/2  (I) wherein R1 are, identical or different, unsubstituted or substituted monovalent hydrocarbon groups, and a is a positive number of 1.95 to 2.05; (B) 70 to 150 parts by weight of fumed silica having a specific surface area of more than 200 m2/g; (C) 0.1 to 30 parts by weight of an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having at least two hydrogen atoms bonded to silicon atoms in one molecule; and (D) 0.1 to 10 parts by weight of a hydrosilylation reaction catalyst.
US08628849B2 Method for preparing purified pyrocatechol
The subject of the present invention is a method for preparing pyrocatechol from which the impurities resulting from the method for the preparation thereof have been removed. The method for preparing purified pyrocatechol from a crude pyrocatechol containing essentially pyrocatechol, small amounts of impurities including dihydroxybenzoquinone, and traces of hydroquinone and of phenolic compounds, is characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps: dissolution of the crude pyrocatechol in water, crystallization of the pyrocatechol, separation of the purified pyrocatechol and, optionally, a step of drying the purified pyrocatechol. The method of the invention may include other steps and, depending on the embodiment chosen, that may comprise a different series of steps, it is possible to obtain pyrocatechol with various degrees of purity.
US08628844B2 Water-soluble substrate with resistance to dissolution prior to being immersed in water
A water-soluble substrate, and more particularly a water-soluble substrate that is resistant to contact with small amounts of water, and methods of making the same are disclosed. A coating which is less water-soluble than the water-soluble substrate and in the form of particles, is applied to and substantially covers at least one surface of the water-soluble substrate. The weight ratio of coating to water-soluble substrate is higher than 0.8. Articles, such as pouches, made from the water-soluble substrate, are also disclosed herein.
US08628832B2 Recording medium
A recording medium includes a base and at least one ink-receiving layer. A first ink-receiving layer that is at least one ink-receiving layer contains inorganic particles having an average primary particle size of 1 μm or less and inorganic particles coated with a metal oxide. The inorganic particles coated with the metal oxide have an average primary particle size of 15.0 μm or more. When the maximum of a FLOP value of the recording medium is denoted by FLOPMax and the minimum of the FLOP value is denoted by FLOPMin, the FLOPMin is 2.5 or more and a value of FLOPMin/FLOPMax is 0.80 or more and 1.00 or less.
US08628831B2 Preparation of a polymer article for selective metallization
The present invention relates to the field of selective metallization, and in particular to preparing a polymer article for selective metallization by submerging the article in a first liquid, and while submerged irradiate the article by a laser beam the area of the article on which the metal is to be deposited. An activation step, prior to the selective metallization, comprises submerging the article in an activation liquid for depositing seed particles in the selected area. The irradiation of the selected area is proportionate so as to cause a temporary melting of the polymer in the surface of the selected area of the polymer article. The invention is advantageous in that the preparation may be performed with a relatively high scan rate across the polymer article, and in that a quite limited use of toxic chemicals.
US08628830B2 Method of and device for modifying the properties of a membrane for an electroacoustic transducer
In a method of and a device for producing a membrane (1) for an electroacoustic transducer, the procedure is such that a membrane (1), which has been produced for example by deep-drawing, is at least partially coated on at least one surface with a liquid plastic (7), in particular a plastic adhesive, and this liquid plastic is cured.
US08628829B2 Method of forming organic film, and nozzle plate, inkjet head and electronic device
The method of forming an organic film, includes: a pre-processing step including a plasma treatment step of carrying out plasma treatment to a surface of a base member, and an exposure processing step of exposing the surface of the base member that has undergone the plasma treatment, in an atmosphere containing at least water; and an organic film formation step of thereafter forming an organic film on the surface of the base member using a silane coupling agent.
US08628815B2 Low shear meat analog
Methods for producing meat analog as well as formulations are disclosed. The novel production method uses a device designed to texturize the product while providing superior heat transfer for cooking. The device includes a helical compression conveyer with internal and external heating sources that delivers a high ratio of surface area for heat transfer to product volume. This results in the device being capable of heating of the emulsion volume as it is moved from the inlet to the outlet of the device to form a meat analog within the device in which the meat analog is formed in multiple segments to result in the meat analog having a defined surface texture.
US08628801B2 Pegylated nanoparticles
The present invention relates to nanoparticles comprising a biodegradable polymer, preferably the vinyl methyl ether and maleic anhydride (PVM/MA) copolymer, and a polyethylene glycol or derivatives thereof. These nanoparticles are easy to produce and provide excellent bioadhesion, size and zeta potential characteristics making them suitable for the administration of active molecules. The selection of the type of polyethylene glycol used in their production allows suitably modulating the characteristics of these nanoparticles, which can be advantageously used according to the type of drug to be carried and/or the method of administration of the pharmaceutical formulation. pegylation is carried out by simple incubation for a short time period of the two macromolecules in question, without needing to have to resort to the use of organic solvents with high toxicity or long and laborious organic synthesis processes. Furthermore, the pegylation process can be associated to the process of encapsulating the biologically active molecule.
US08628794B2 Palatable ductile chewable veterinary composition
The present invention is directed to palatable ductile chewable veterinary composition for oral administration. The composition is capable of killing endo-parasites and ecto-parasites and/or can be used for treating prophylactic or curative animal diseases, and it is useful for the treatment of any warm-blooded non-human animal, including herd animals, like horses, cattle, sheep or poultry and preferably pets like dogs and cats. It consists basically of (A) an effective amount of one or more ingredients that are active against animal pests, pathogens or animal diseases; (B) meat flavoring; (C) partially gelatinized starch; (D) a softener; and (E) up to 9% water.
US08628792B2 Drug cores for sustained release of therapeutic agents
A solid drug core insert can be manufactured by injecting a liquid mixture comprising a therapeutic agent and a matrix precursor into a sheath body. The injection can be conducted at subambient temperatures. The mixture is cured to form a solid drug-matrix core. The therapeutic agent can be a liquid at about room temperature that forms a dispersion of droplets in the matrix material. A surface of the solid drug core is exposed, for example by cutting the tube, and the exposed surface of the solid drug core releases therapeutic quantities of the therapeutic agent when implanted into the patient. In some embodiments, the insert body inhibits release of the therapeutic agent, for example with a material substantially impermeable to the therapeutic agent, such that the therapeutic quantities are released through the exposed surface, thereby avoiding release of the therapeutic agent to non-target tissues.
US08628789B2 Strong reversible hydrogels
The present invention relates to improved hydrogel materials using water gellants that are comprised of polymer backbones P to which hydrogen bonding 4H-units are covalently attached via a hydrophobic linker L. Optionally, the hydrogel contains additional ingredients or additives. These new reversible hydrogels can easily be fine-tuned in their mechanical performance and function and are especially suitable for biomedical applications.
US08628785B2 Method for augmenting the immunogenicity of an antigen
The present invention relates to a method for augmenting the immunogenicity of an antigen in a mammal, comprising immunizing the mammal with a composition comprising the antigen, and an adjuvant in an amount of effective to augment the immunogenicity of said antigen, wherein the adjuvant comprises a Ling-Zhi-8 (LZ-8) protein.
US08628784B2 Adjuvant systems and vaccines
An adjuvant composition comprising monophosphoryl lipid A or a derivative of monophposphoryl lipid A adsorbed onto an aluminium salt particle.
US08628783B2 Method for growing fibroblasts
A method for reducing the occurrence of wrinkles in skin caused by aging by promoting the growth of fibroblasts, which have a declined cellular proliferative potential due to aging or adverse affects from ultraviolet light or active oxygen. The method includes the steps of providing an agent that contains a yeast extract and a safflower extract as effective constituents, and applying the agent to skin to promote the growth of fibroblasts.
US08628778B2 Humanized monoclonal antibodies to hepatocyte growth factor
The present invention is directed toward a humanized neutralizing monoclonal antibody to hepatocyte growth factor, a pharmaceutical composition comprising same, and methods of treatment comprising administering such a pharmaceutical composition to a patient.
US08628775B2 Methods of reducing T cell-mediated immune responses with multimeric P-selectin and/or E-selectin compounds
Multimeric compounds that bind to P-Selectin Glycoprotein 1 (PSGL-1) on the surface of T cells or natural killer (NK) cells can be used to induce T cell or NK cell depletion and/or to induce T cell or NK cell apoptosis. The multimeric compounds and methods of the invention can be used to control unwanted T cell- or NK cell-mediated immune responses in conditions such as inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, and allergic diseases.
US08628770B2 Slimming cosmetic composition containing a substance inducing the production of IL-6
This invention relates to a slimming cosmetic composition containing at least one compound inducing the production of IL-6 by the adipocytes in the form of a mixture with an NPY antagonist and/or an α2 antagonist and with an excipient for a cosmetic preparation.
US08628769B2 Modified vitamin K-dependent polypeptides
The invention provides vitamin K-dependent polypeptides with enhanced membrane binding affinity. These polypeptides can be used to modulate clot formation in mammals. Methods of modulating clot formation in mammals are also described.
US08628767B2 Purine nucleoside phosphorylase as enzymatic activator of nucleoside prodrugs
A process for inhibiting a mammalian cancerous cell or virally infected cell includes providing a Trichomonas vaginalis purine nucleoside phosphorylase enzyme or a tail mutant purine nucleoside phosphorylase enzyme in proximity to the mammalian cancerous cell or the virally infected cell and exposing the enzyme to a purine nucleoside phosphorylase enzyme cleavable substrate to yield a cytotoxic purine analog. The process includes introducing to the cell a vector containing the phosphorylase enzyme, or a DNA sequence coding for the same and delivering to the cell an effective amount of the substrate such as 9-(β-D-arabinofuranosyl)-2-fluoroadenine (F-araA).
US08628765B2 Bacteria cultures and compositions comprising bacteria cultures
The present invention relates to bacteria cultures and composition comprising one or more cultures of the invention. The invention also relates to methods of washing or cleaning laundry or fabrics and surfaces as well as degrading waste material using a bacteria culture of the invention.
US08628763B2 Of growth of Bifidobacteria in fermented milk products
The present invention relates to a method for the preparation of a fermented milk product comprising Bifidobacteria in combination with lactic acid bacteria of the species Lactococcus lactis, Sterptococcus thermophilus, and/or Lactobacillus bulgaricus. The problem to be solved is to provide a method to improve growth of Bifidobacteria population in milk during the fermentation process for making fermented milk products (e.g. a yogurt) in order to obtain a high cell count of Bifidobacteria in the final product.
US08628759B2 Soft anticholinergic esters
Soft anticholinergic esters of the formulas: wherein R1 and R2 are both phenyl or one of R1 and R2 is phenyl and the other is cyclopentyl; R is C1-C8 alkyl, straight or branched chain; and X− is an anion with a single negative charge; and wherein each asterisk marks a chiral center; said compound having the R, S or RS stereoisomeric configuration at each chiral center unless specified otherwise, or being a mixture thereof.
US08628750B2 Cancer imaging and treatment
Provided herein are compounds or conjugates useful for diagnostic imaging and/or therapeutic purposes. Each compound or conjugate comprises a ligand for the chemokine receptor CXCR4 and a detectable label. The ligand has a binding affinity for the CXCR4 receptor, measured as IC50 in the presence of 125I-CPCR4, of 250 nM or lower, and the ligand comprises a cyclic oligopeptide moiety having the motif B-Arg or B-(Me)Arg within the cyclic moiety, wherein B is a basic amino acid, a derivative thereof, or phenylalanine, provided that the motif is B-Arg when B is a Nα-methyl derivative of a basic amino acid.
US08628746B2 System and method for dispersing nanostructures in a composite material
According to one embodiment, a composite material includes nanostructures dispersed in a substrate that may be cured from an amorphous state to a hardened state. The composite material may be manufactured by placing the nanostructures in the substrate while in an amorphous state and applying an electric field to the nanostructures and the substrate while the substrate cures to a hardened state.
US08628741B2 Off gas treatment using a metal reactant alloy composition
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for treating a flue gas stream containing oxygen containing greenhouse gases. In particular, the method comprises reacting a flue gas steam with a molten aluminum or aluminum alloy bath, creating alumina and elemental carbon, elemental sulfur, and molecular nitrogen. The apparatus includes a reaction vessel for carrying out the reaction, as well as other equipment necessary for capturing and removing the reaction products. Further, the process can be used to cogenerate electricity using the excess heat generated by the process.
US08628736B2 Process for the production of titanium salts
The present invention provides a method for the Industrial production of a titanium salt TP, said method comprising the steps of: i. Precipitation of titanic acid from a solution comprising titanium salt TP1; ii. Production of a titanium containing product TP2 from a medium comprising of said titanic acid and an acid; and iii. Thermal conversion of titanium containing product TP3 to a titanium salt TP at temperature higher than 170° C.
US08628732B2 Immobilizing device and immobilization method using the immobilization device
Provided is an immobilization device for fitting a connecting member of a chip and a connecting member of a cover together, where a spatial clearance between the chip and cover is small. The immobilization device includes a substrate (102), a cover means (101) including a fitting means to fit with a chip (103) placed on the substrate (102), a rotating arm means (201) rotatably joined to a first joining means (301) of the substrate (102) and to a second joining means (302) of the cover means (101), and a parallel maintaining means (203) for fitting the fitting means and the chip (103) together with the fitting means and the chip (103) maintained in substantially parallel by the first joining means (301) or the second joining means (302) moving along a chip surface or a plane parallel to the chip surface. The fitting means rotates freely against the chip (103).
US08628726B2 Photocatalysts based on structured three-dimensional carbide, in particular β-SiC, foams
The invention relates to a photocatalyst comprising a β-SiC cellular foam and a photocatalytically active phase, deposited directly on said cellular foam or on an intermediate phase deposited on said cellular foam. The average size of the cells is between 2500 μm and 5000 μm. The foam can comprise nanotubes or nanofibers (particularly of carbon, SiC, and TiO2) that consist of, or carry as an intermediate phase, a photocatalytically active phase.
US08628714B2 System and method for providing the capability of peeling thin polymer films from a substrate
A system and method for providing the capability of peeling thin polymer films from a substrate is provided. Generally, the method contains the steps of: providing a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface; placing a peel initiator on the top surface; applying a polymer on the top surface of the substrate and a top surface of the peel initiator; curing the polymer, resulting in a thin-polymer film; and peeling the peel initiator from the substrate, thereby removing the thin-polymer film from the top surface of the substrate.
US08628710B2 Plasticizer for thermoplastic polymer materials
A thermoplastic polymeric composition having a xanthene or xanthenes-based compound as a plasticizer, a method to modify the thermoplastic polymeric materials to increase their relative plasticity while maintaining good strength or “toughness” characteristics, and various articles of manufacture that can be made using the polymer composition are described.
US08628704B2 Rapid rotational foam molding process
The nature of the rotational molding process is cyclic. It requires the temperature of the rotating mold and the plastic it is charged with to be elevated from room temperature to beyond its melting temperature and then cooled back to room temperature. Consequently, rotational molding cycle times are lengthy, which is often considered as the fundamental drawback of this plastic fabrication process. The motivation and objectives of this disclosure are twofold. The presently proposed invention focuses on developing an innovative extrusion-assisted rotational foam molding processing technology for the manufacture of integral-skin cellular composite moldings having adjacent, but clearly distinct, layers of non-cellular and cellular structures, consisting of identical or compatible polymeric grades. Its primary goal is to significantly reduce the processing cycle time in comparison with respective currently implemented technologies by employing melt extrusion in order to maximize the speed of controlled polymer melting.
US08628701B2 Method of micro-encapsulation
A method of preparing micro-capsules. The active ingredient, preferably provided in the form of an acid salt dissolved in a basic aqueous solution, is emulsified into a polymer solution, preferably PLGA in a relatively volatile solvent such as dichloromethane, to create a water in oil emulsion. This emulsion is further emulsified into an aqueous solution having a pH of a between about 7.4 and 8.0 and most preferably between about 7.8 and 8.0 to create a water in oil in water solution. The polymer solvent is allowed to evaporate, causing the emulsified active ingredient and surrounding polymer matrix to precipitate, thereby forming the micro-capsules. The micro-capsules are separated from the suspension, washed and freeze dried. The method has a very high encapsulation efficiency, even at high loading rates. Additionally, the dissolution rate of the micro-particles produced by the method is very steady over a long period of time.
US08628700B2 Optical sheet manufacturing apparatus and optical sheet manufacturing method
An optical sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a first master including a first three-dimensional structure, a second master including a second three-dimensional structure, a first processing unit to heat a first surface of a resin sheet to a first temperature and transfer the first three-dimensional structure onto the first surface heated, a second processing unit to cool the first surface to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, heat a second surface of the resin sheet to a third temperature higher than the second temperature, and transfer the second three-dimensional structure onto the second surface heated, a third processing unit to cool the second surface to a fourth temperature lower than the third temperature, a first conveyance mechanism to perform conveyance from the first processing unit to the second processing unit, and a second conveyance mechanism to perform conveyance from the second processing unit to the third processing unit.
US08628698B2 Resin composition for protection layer of color filter, protection layer of color filter using same and image sensor including same
Disclosed is a resin composition for a protective layer of a color filter including an acrylate-based resin including a repeating unit represented by each of Chemical Formulae 1 to 3, a melamine-based resin represented by Chemical Formula 4, a thermal acid generator (TAG), and a solvent.
US08628679B2 High-definition demetalization process
A method of producing images on a metalized substrate is described. The metalized substrate comprises a substrate having a top side and a bottom side and a metalized coating adhered to the top side of the substrate. The method comprises the steps of printing an image onto the metalized coating by selectively applying a protective coating of the image, curing the protective coating, applying a demetalizing solution onto the metalized substrate, rinsing the metalized substrate, drying the metalized substrate, applying an adhesive coating onto the metalized substrate, and removing the adhesive coating.
US08628678B2 Method for measuring the active KOH concentration in a KOH etching process
The invention relates to a method for in-line measuring the active KOH concentration in a KOH etching process in which process silicon hydroxide is produced by a reduction reaction according to the formula: 2K+ (aq.)+2OH− (aq.)+2H2O+Si→2K+ (aq.)+H2SiO42− (aq.)+2H2 (g). The total concentration of KOH bath is measured by using a refractometer and the measurement result is corrected by the estimated K2H2SiO4 concentration.
US08628677B2 Forming curved features using a shadow mask
Processes for making a profile-transferring substrate surface and membranes having curved features are disclosed. A profile-transferring substrate surface having a curved feature is created by isotropic plasma etching through a shadow mask. The shadow mask has a through hole which has a lower portion adjacent to the bottom surface of the shadow mask and an upper portion that is above and narrower than the lower portion. The isotropic plasma etching through the shadow mask can create a curved dent in a planar substrate in a central portion of an area enclosed by the bottom opening. After the shadow mask is removed. A uniform layer of material deposited over the exposed surface of the substrate will include a curved feature at the location of the curved dent in the substrate surface.
US08628673B2 Resin composition for pattern formation, pattern formation method and process for producing light-emitting element
Disclosed are: a resin composition for pattern formation, which enables the stable formation of a pattern at a level of the wavelength of light; a method for forming a pattern having a sea-island structure using the composition; and a process for producing a light-emitting element that can achieve high luminous efficiency properties. The resin composition for pattern formation comprises: (a) a specific block copolymer containing an aromatic ring-containing polymer and a poly(meth)acrylate as block moieties; (b) a homopolymer of a specific aromatic ring-containing polymer; and (c) a homopolymer of a specific poly(meth)acrylate, wherein the ratio of the total amount of the aromatic ring-containing homopolymer (b) and the poly(meth)acrylate homopolymer (c) relative to the entire resin composition is 0% by weight to 90% by weight, and the total amount of an aromatic ring-containing polymer moiety contained in the block copolymer (a) as a block moiety and the aromatic ring-containing homopolymer (b) relative to the entire resin composition is 10% by weight to 60% by weight.
US08628672B1 Process for manufacturing a perpendicular magnetic recording writer pole with nonmagnetic bevel
A method for fabricating a magnetic recording transducer having a magnetic writer pole with a short effective throat height is provided. In an embodiment, a writer structure comprising a magnetic writer pole having a trailing bevel and a nonmagnetic stack on the top surface of the writer pole is provided. A dielectric write gap layer comprising alumina is deposited over the trailing bevel section and the nonmagnetic stack; and at least one etch stop layer is deposited over the dielectric write gap layer. A layer of nonmagnetic fill material is deposited over the etch stop layer and to form a nonmagnetic bevel by performing a dry etch process. The etch stop layer(s) are removed from the short throat section; and a trailing shield is deposited over the short throat section, nonmagnetic bevel, and nonmagnetic stack top surface.
US08628668B2 Pipeline magnetic separator system
A system, apparatus and method for magnetically separating a fluid flow passing through a pipeline are provided. A magnetic separator assembly having a plurality of elongate magnetic members is provided. Each magnetic member can have a first end and a second end. A cleaner plate can be provided that can move along the magnetic members. After the magnetic separator assembly is used to collect magnetic particles from a fluid flow in a pipeline, the magnetic separator assembly can be cleaned by sliding the cleaning plate along the magnetic members.
US08628667B2 Chromatographic column and methods for controlling sorbent density
Disclosed herein are apparatus and methods for mitigating column bed compression over time. This invention provides for an improved column design and method of controlling bed density in a chromatographic column using a protruding portion of a filter assembly. The invention results in a higher sorbent bed density than can normally be achieved using a fixed length column of conventional design. The invention may be implemented as a unique filter assembly or as a column tailored for the application and a matching filter assembly.
US08628665B2 Water treatment apparatus
A water treatment apparatus includes a tank, a driving unit, a filtered-water pipe, a filtering unit and at least one scraping unit. The tank includes a wall, an inlet pipe extending through an upper portion, and an outlet pipe extending from a lower portion. The driving unit is located on an external side of the tank. The filtered-water pipe extends throughout the tank and is connected to the driving unit. The filtering unit includes flat filtering bags located around the filtered-water pipe. The flat filtering bags can be spun together with the filtered-water pipe. The scraping unit includes scrapper assemblies each located between and in contact with two adjacent ones of the flat filtering bags.
US08628662B2 Filtering device comprising membrane filtering modules and assembly of modules for such a device
The invention relates to a device for filtering a liquid, in particular water, comprising membrane filtering modules, connected by pipes to valves for controlling the flows of liquid travelling towards the modules and coming from same, including a first block made up of an assembly (14a) of membrane filtering modules, a second block made up of a system of valves (14b), and a third block made up of a group of intermediate pipes (14c) comprising an interface between the system of valves (14b) and the assembly of modules (14), only the interface (14c) requiring to be changed when changing the type of filtering modules, while the system of valves (14b) and the assembly of modules (14a) remain unchanged, except when changing the type of modules.
US08628661B2 Disc filtration device
The disclosure relates to a filtration device that comprises a disc with a rim covering and stiffening a plurality of filtration sectors connected to taps provided on the outer wall of a rotary main shaft containing inner discharge channels and fit-inserted into said taps and into a crown comprising two parts concentric to the shaft, one which is secured to the shaft while the other is removable, characterised in that said rim is provided with openings each intended for receiving a removable connection flange bearing, on the one hand, a radial strut clamped between two adjacent sectors for the relative clamping thereof and interacting, on the other hand, with a spring quick fastener for locking the strut under tension between the sectors. The disclosure also relates to a method for assembling and maintaining said filtration device.
US08628657B1 Floor sink strainer assembly
A strainer assembly for use with an indirect waste receptor comprising an internally threaded, expandable gasket member sized to be insertable into the indirect waste receptor discharge tube operatively connected to a building drain system drain pipe; a rigid support structure forming an externally threaded wall to operatively mate with the gasket member in a manner to expand the gasket member body into sealing contact with the discharge tube or drain pipe and having a spoke member extending across a rigid support structure passageway with a vertical opening in its center section; a strainer having a screw opening alignable with the spoke member center section opening; and a screw seatable in the screw opening and having a length to operative attach to the center section opening for affixing the strainer to the rigid support structure.
US08628656B2 Hydrodesulfurization process with selected liquid recycle to reduce formation of recombinant mercaptans
Processes for the desulfurization of a cracked naphtha by the reaction of hydrogen with the organic sulfur compounds present in the feed are disclosed. In particular, processes disclosed herein may use one or more catalytic distillation steps followed by further hydrodesulfurization of the naphtha in a fixed bed reactor. It has been found that the formation of recombinant mercaptans in the fixed bed reactor effluent may be reduced or eliminated by reducing the concentration of hydrogen sulfide and/or olefins at the exit of the fixed bed reactor. The reduction or elimination in the formation of recombinant mercaptans may be accomplished by recycling a select portion of the fixed bed reactor effluent to the fixed bed reactor, where the select portion has a relatively low or nil concentration of olefins. Processes disclosed herein may thus facilitate the production of hydrodesulfurized cracked naphthas having a total sulfur content of less than 10 ppm, by weight.
US08628643B2 Process to remove product alcohol from a fermentation by vaporization under vacuum
A fermentation liquid feed including water and a product alcohol and optionally CO2 is at least partially vaporized such that a vapor stream is produced. The vapor stream is contacted with an absorption liquid under suitable conditions wherein an amount of the product alcohol is absorbed. The portion of the vapor stream that is absorbed can include an amount of each of the water, the product alcohol and optionally the CO2. The temperature at the onset of the absorption of the vapor stream into the absorption liquid can be greater than the temperature at the onset of condensation of the vapor stream in the absence of the absorption liquid. The product alcohol can be separated from the absorption liquid whereby the absorption liquid is regenerated. The absorption liquid can include a water soluble organic molecule such as an amine.
US08628640B2 Plasma processing unit and high-frequency electric power supplying unit
A plasma processing unit of the present invention includes a processing container whose inner pressure can be reduced, a first electrode arranged in the processing container, a process gas supplying unit that supplies a process gas into the processing container, a high-frequency electric power source that outputs high-frequency electric power having a frequency in a VHF band, a matching unit electrically connected to the high-frequency electric power source and the first electrode for impedance matching, and a transmission line that transmits the high-frequency electric power from the high-frequency electric power source to the matching unit. A substrate to be processed is adapted to be arranged in the processing container. The high-frequency electric power transmitted to the first electrode is adapted to generate plasma in such a manner that the substrate to be processed can undergo a plasma process by means of the plasma. The transmission line has a length shorter than a length wherein a resonance state of a third harmonic wave of the high-frequency electric power may be generated.
US08628637B2 Display device with front window and manufacturing method thereof
A distance between a liquid crystal display panel set on a lower support mechanism and a front window set on an upper support mechanism is accurately determined by a stopper. An ultraviolet irradiation mask is provided on the front window. A part of the ultraviolet curable resin corresponding to a transmission pattern of the ultraviolet irradiation mask is temporarily cured through ultraviolet irradiation. The temporarily adhered structure of the liquid crystal display panel and the front window is taken from an attachment device to be left standing for a predetermined time period on a tray until an area and a thickness of the ultraviolet curable resin reach respective predetermined values. The ultraviolet light is then irradiated to an entire surface of the ultraviolet curable resin to finalize the adhesion. The time for which the attachment device is occupied is short, thus improving an operation rate of the device.
US08628632B2 Vapor barrier tape dispenser
A vapor barrier tape dispenser includes a generally upright frame. A roller pivotally mounts to a lower portion of the frame. A handle mounts to an upper portion of the frame for engagement by an operator. A spindle pivotally mounts to the frame. A tape roll pivotally attaches to the spindle and is configured to feed a strip of tape around a portion of the roller for adherence to a vapor barrier.
US08628627B2 Turboengine water wash system
A system for cleaning gas turbine engines is described. More specifically, methods and apparatuses for cleaning stationary gas turbines and on-wing turbofan engines found on aircraft are disclosed that includes a trailer-mounted, automated low-pressure water delivery system, additive and detergent injection system, nozzle and manifold technology, and active waste water effluent collector system. The system will deliver the liquid cleaning medium at a specific pressure, temperature, and flow rate to optimize the atomization that occurs at the nozzles.
US08628622B2 Gas driven rotation apparatus and method for forming crystalline layers
A gas driven apparatus and method that can be useful for growing crystalline materials are provided. The gas driven rotation apparatus can include one or more rotatable substrate support members, each of which can be configured to support at least one substrate having a growth surface oriented in a downwardly facing position. The gas driven rotation apparatus can further include one or more drive gas channels adapted to direct the flow of a drive gas to rotate the substrate support member. One or more substrates can be positioned in the apparatus so that the growth surface of each substrate is downwardly oriented. A drive gas can flow through the drive gas channel to rotate the substrate. During rotation, reactant gases can be introduced to contact the downwardly facing growth surface, and epitaxial layers of a crystalline material can thereby be grown in a downward direction.
US08628616B2 Vapor-phase process apparatus, vapor-phase process method, and substrate
A vapor-phase process apparatus and a vapor-phase process method capable of satisfactorily maintaining quality of processes even when different types of processes are performed are obtained. A vapor-phase process apparatus includes a process chamber, gas supply ports serving as a plurality of gas introduction portions, and a gas supply portion (a gas supply member, a pipe, a flow rate control device, a pipe, and a buffer chamber). The process chamber allows flow of a reaction gas therein. The plurality of gas supply ports are formed in a wall surface (upper wall) of the process chamber along a direction of flow of the reaction gas. The gas supply portion can supply a gas into the process chamber at a different flow rate from each of one gas supply port and another gas supply port different from that one gas supply port among the plurality of gas supply ports.
US08628608B2 Apparatus and method for in-situ high temperature regeneration of a rotor sorption concentrator
A method and apparatus for regenerating the media of a rotary sorption concentrator system includes passing a 600° F. to 1000° F. regeneration fluid stream through a rotating media in a first isolated zone to regenerate the media and remove contaminants from the media that are not removed during a typical desorption cycle of a rotary sorption concentrator system.
US08628603B2 Water-saving liquid-gas conditioning system
A method for treating a process gas with a liquid comprises contacting a process gas with a hygroscopic working fluid in order to remove a constituent from the process gas. A system for treating a process gas with a liquid comprises a hygroscopic working fluid comprising a component adapted to absorb or react with a constituent of a process gas, and a liquid-gas contactor for contacting the working fluid and the process gas, wherein the constituent is removed from the process gas within the liquid-gas contactor.
US08628599B2 Diamondoid stabilized fine-grained metals
Thermal stability of cryomilled Al+1% diamantane was investigated in the temperature range of 423 to 773K. Diamantane is a nanosized hydrocarbon molecule with a 14 carbon atom diamond cubic framework that is terminated by hydrogen atoms. Following the cryomilling of the Al powders and diamantane cages, the average grain size characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The as-cryomilled grain sized was found to be of the order of 22 nm, essentially the same as that for Al cryomilled without diamantane. To determine thermal stability, the powders were sealed in glass tubes in an Ar atmosphere to avoid oxidation and contamination and annealed at different temperatures between 423 and 773K for different holding times. Following these treatments, the grain size of cryomilled Al+1% diamantane was consistently less than that for cryomilled Al by about a factor of two. Preliminary investigations indicate that the grain growth exponent n decreased with increasing temperature, reaching a value of approximately 35 at 423 K. Such a high value of n suggests the operation of strong pinning forces on boundaries during annealing treatment. The thermal stability data were found to be consistent with Burke's model based on drag forces exerted by dispersion particles.
US08628591B2 Detergent additive-containing mineral oils having improved cold flow properties
The invention relates to the use of at least one oil-soluble compound B) which acts as a nucleating agent for paraffin crystallization and which is selected from substantially linear hydrocarbons with at least 22 C atoms, for improving the response of cold flow improvers for mineral oils C) in middle distillates that contain at least one ashless, nitrogenous detergent additive A), which is an oil-soluble, amphiphilic compound that comprises at least one alkyl or alkenyl group bound to a polar group, said alkyl or alkenyl group having 10 to 500 C atoms and the polar group having 2 or more nitrogen atoms.
US08628587B2 Composition comprising an oxidation dye precursor, a polycondensate of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, and a polyoxyalkylenated fatty acid
The present invention relates to a dye composition comprising at least one oxidation dye precursor, at least one polycondensate of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide having the following structure: H—(O—CH2—CH2)a—(O—CH(CH3)—CH2)b—(O—CH2—CH2)a—OH, in which a and a′ range from 2 to 150 and b ranges from 1 to 100; and at least one anionic surfactant of polyoxyalkylenated fatty acid type, the weight ratio between the polycondensate(s)/the polyoxyalkylenated fatty acid(s) ranging from 0.05 to 1. The invention also relates to a dyeing process using this composition after mixing with a composition comprising an oxidizing agent. Another subject of the invention is devices comprising at least two compartments, the first compartment comprising the above composition and the second compartment comprising a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent.
US08628584B2 Transcutaneous prosthesis
A transcutaneous prosthesis includes a first component shaped for implantation into a bone, the first component including flutes or grooves on a surface thereof for deterring rotation of the prosthesis within a bone; a second component adapted for location between the bone and the skin, the second component having a surface treatment for stimulation of fibroblastic cell proliferation and attachment of epithelial cells; and a third component adapted for location to extend from the skin surface and is adapted to extend directly from the skin surface in use, the third component having a coating of a non-stick material on an outer surface thereof, the coating having a surface energy that is lower than a surface energy of the first and second components and which is low enough to deter bacterial adhesion.
US08628582B2 Subtalar implant and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides a subtalar implant as well as methods of use thereof for the purpose of correcting podiatric disorders such as various types of flat foot conditions relating to the subtalar joint. The subtalar implant is capable of threaded engagement with a positioning element used to position and manipulate the implant during surgical implantation in the sinus tarsi of the foot. The implant is cannulated to receive a guide rod to facilitate final positioning of the implant. Once implanted, the subtalar implant provides anatomical fit with the subtalar joint anatomical structure without the need for indentations to receive osseous tissue growth to anchor the subtalar implant.
US08628573B2 Adjustable suture-button construct for knotless stabilization of cranial cruciate deficient ligament stifle
An adjustable, knotless button/loop/needle construct for fixation of cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle. The adjustable, knotless construct includes two fixation devices (for example, two buttons), at least one flexible, adjustable loop attached to at least one of the fixation devices (e.g., the buttons), and two needles (each needle being attached to one fixation device, e.g., the buttons). The adjustable, knotless construct has an adjustable loop length and allows adjustment in one direction while preventing or locking the construct from loosening in the opposite direction, due to applied tensile forces. The construct and technique of the present invention provides an improved knotless system for cruciate ligament repair.
US08628571B1 Percutaneously-deliverable mechanical valve
Apparatus for regulating blood flow of a subject is provided, the apparatus comprising a prosthetic valve that comprises a tubular element, shaped to define a lumen therethrough; and a valve member, configured to be coupled to the tubular element and to be disposed within the lumen. The prosthetic valve has (1) a compressed configuration in which the lumen has a compressed width, the valve member is generally cylindrical, and the prosthetic valve is configured to be percutaneously delivered into the subject, and (2) an expanded configuration in which the lumen has an expanded width that is greater than the compressed width, and the valve member is generally disc-shaped, is coupled to the tubular element, and is disposed within the lumen. Other embodiments are also described.
US08628561B2 Water-absorbent pad
It is an object of the present invention to provide a water-absorbent pad that is made of impermeable cloth or sheet, that is capable of absorbing water when needed and that effectively cools and heats a human face, neck, head and the like. A cooling/heating water-absorbent pad, wherein a water-absorbent sheet made of a material containing water-absorbent polymer is inserted in a planate bag made of impermeable cloth having a closed periphery; the impermeable cloth and the water-absorbent sheet are stitched together such that the impermeable cloth and the water-absorbent sheet are divided into a plurality of areas in a planar view; and water is absorbed into the water-absorbent sheet through a channel formed at the stitched portion. In this moment, water is absorbed into the water-absorbent sheet only via holes made by the stitching and by a capillary action of a thread piercing through the water-absorbent sheet. The water-absorbent sheet is preferably made of non-woven cloth containing water-absorbent polymer. The impermeable cloth may have a water-repellent surface.
US08628560B2 Orthopaedic instrumentation with integral load-bearing members
An orthopaedic instrument includes a metallic load-bearing member and a non-metallic support structure formed integrally with the load-bearing member such that the load-bearing member is permanently attached to the non-metallic support structure. The non-metallic support structure enables the orthopaedic instrument to be lighter than an all-metal instrument while the metallic load bearing member provides wearability comparable to an all-metal instrument.
US08628559B2 Spinal implant connection assembly
The present invention provides a connection assembly that can be used to securely connect a spinal implant to a bone anchor. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a spinal implant connection assembly that is able to securely connect the spinal implant to the anchors even when there is a variance in the angle and position of the anchors with respect to the spinal implant. Furthermore, the present invention provides a connection assembly with structure to increase the locking strength of the connection assembly.
US08628547B2 Devices and methods for placement of partitions within a hollow body organ
Devices and methods for tissue acquisition and fixation, or gastroplasty, are described. Generally, the devices of the system may be advanced in a minimally invasive manner within a patient's body, e.g., transorally, endoscopically, percutaneously, etc., to create one or several divisions or plications within the hollow body organ. Such divisions or plications can form restrictive barriers within a organ, or can be placed to form a pouch, or gastric lumen, smaller than the remaining stomach volume to essentially act as the active stomach such as the pouch resulting from a surgical Roux-En-Y gastric bypass procedure. Moreover, the system is configured such that once acquisition of the tissue by the gastroplasty device is accomplished, any manipulation of the acquired tissue is unnecessary as the device is able to automatically configure the acquired tissue into a desired configuration.
US08628539B2 Flexible disposable surgical port
A surgical apparatus for introduction of laparoscopic instruments into an anatomical cavity through tissue at an entry site. The apparatus includes a body with a frustoconical-shaped wall. The body defines an interior cavity, an open bottom, and a substantially closed top wall with openings from which a plurality of ports extend upward therefrom. The ports are adapted to receive the laparoscopic instruments for introduction through the interior cavity and open bottom of the body into the anatomical cavity. In the preferred embodiment, the frustoconical-shaped wall of the body is placed through an incision in the umbilicus. In one aspect of the invention, the body is a unitary one-piece molded structure. A reinforcing belt or plate formed from a relatively hard material can be integral to the body. In another aspect, the apparatus is formed from a block copolymer of poly(styrene-block-isobutylene-block-styrene), hereinafter referred to as “SIBS”, which unexpectedly provides the benefit that lubrication of the ports (or of the instruments extending through the ports) is avoided.
US08628537B2 Adjustable tool for cannulated fasteners
A tool is disclosed for use in forming holes in bone and for driving a cannulated fastener into the formed hole. The tool may having a cutting tip for drilling a hole into bone, and may have a shaft and sleeve for accepting the cannulated fastener and for driving it into the drilled hole. The tool may be adjustable to allow fasteners of different lengths to be accepted, while ensuring that a portion of the cutting tip protrudes beyond the end of the fastener. A multiple-screw tool is also disclosed that allows more than one cannulated fastener at a time to be stacked on the tool, thus speeding the installation process.
US08628530B2 External fixation apparatus with angularly adjustable drill guiding and pin clamping means
An external fixation device for holding bone fragments in place includes a housing having a number of rotationally adjustable pin holders, each of which is held by a clamping member that simultaneously clamps the pin holder within an internal mounting surface of the housing and a bone pin within the pin holder. For example, the device includes a number of internal mounting surfaces, each of which can include a single pin holder. A drill guide fitting into the internal mounting surfaces is used to protect soft tissue from bone pins and they are rotated during installation.
US08628515B2 Medical connector
A medical connector for use with one or more medical implements. In some embodiments, the connector minimizes or eliminates the retrograde flow of fluid into the connector from one end or port upon the disconnection of a medical implement from the other end or port. In some embodiments, the connector generates a positive flow of fluid out of the connector from one end or port when a medical implement is disconnected from the other end or port.
US08628514B2 Multi-dose medical fluid injection system having patient-specific tubing set with use indicator
A single-use, single-patient, or patient-specific tubing set (300) is disclosed. The tubing set (300) includes at least one check valve (304), along with a use indicator (320). This use indicator (320) provides a visual indication when the tubing set (300) has been used for an injection. In this regard, a piston (340) moves from one position to another when exposed to a certain fluid pressure.
US08628509B2 Enteral connectors and systems
An enteral connector assembly and system (700) communicates fluid between a bag B′ or a bottle B″ and an enteral feeding set. The system (700) includes an end cap (705) that communicates enteral fluid across a barrier (715) having a specially configured barrier keyway (720) formed with a barrier port (725). The barrier (715) establishes an interstice (165) that when combined with the spike barrier (715) prevents introduction of and fluid communication with legal intravenous spikes (LS) and other incompatible connectors, while enabling connection to and fluid communication with compatible components such as an interconnect (740) having multiple tines (745) that include specially shaped tips (750) that extend across the interstice (165) to pierce a seal, septum, and/or sealing membrane and form a fluid pathway.
US08628501B2 Syringe sterilization cap
A sterilization cap carried on a needle support end of a syringe. The cap includes a main body having first and second ends, the first end being connectable to the needle support end, as well as being connectable onto the needle support end alone of a primary or IV extension line. A sponge secured within a sponge cavity within the second end is saturated with a sterilizing liquid. A removable cover attached to the second sealingly encloses the sponge until the syringe is used. The second end is sized, when the cover is removed, to fit over a tip of a CLAVE needleless connector extension or IV tubing a distance sufficient to compress the sponge to sterilize the tip with sterilizing liquid expressed from the sponge.
US08628499B2 Injection device preventing the return of the piston when the safety system is deployed
The present invention relates to an injection device (1) comprising: -a body (3) receiving a product, having a needle (7) and a piston (5) attached to a piston rod (8) movable between a storage position and an end-of-injection position, -a sleeve (6) for protecting the needle (7), movable between an initial position, where the needle (7) is uncovered, and a final position, where the needle (7) is covered, -biasing means (26) for moving said sleeve (6) from its initial position to its final position, -immobilization means (16, 31) for keeping said sleeve (6) in its initial position, characterized in that: -said piston rod (8) comprises a first portion (9) and a second portion (10), said second portion (10) being able to switch between a locked position, in which said second portion (10) is fixed to said first portion (9) and an unlocked position, in which said second portion (10) is movable with respect to said first portion on a predetermined distance along the longitudinal axis of said piston rod (8).
US08628491B2 Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt device
An apparatus method for establishing a Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt between the portal vein from a hepatic vein. The apparatus comprises an elongated hollow outer guide; an outer handle having an inner lumen and a first luer lock, the outer handle attached at a proximal end of the outer guide, the outer guide in flow communication with the inner lumen and the first luer lock; an elongated hollow inner needle; and a hub having a second luer lock, the hub attached at a proximal end of the inner needle, the inner needle in flow communication with the second luer lock. The inner needle is slidingly received into the outer guide through the inner lumen. The inner needle rotates within the outer guide by manipulation of the hub; and a distal tip of the inner needle is deployed out of and beyond a distal tip of the outer guide.
US08628485B2 Gait analysis system and methods
Systems and methods for analyzing the gait of an individual are disclosed. The disclosed systems and methods can be configured to acquire data from a first array and a second array of sensors that are configured to be placed in a left and/or right shoe, respectively. The acquired data can be collected or separated into at least two separate gait phases for each array, compared to a baseline condition for each gait phase and categorized into one of at least two uniformity categories for each gait phase. Examples of collected and/or calculated data include pressure values, shear stress values and torque values. The analysis can be focused on both feet of a person, or focused on one foot. A graphical output showing at least one entire gait cycle based on the uniformity categories can then be generated.
US08628470B1 Disease management system and method including medication therapy self-management
A method and system for patient medication therapy self-management. The system performs medication therapy self-management in a fully automated manner, using periodic interactive dialogs with a patient to obtain health state measurements from the patient. The system and method utilizes a computer usable medium having computer readable program code embodied therein for representing a description of a pain in a digitized form allowing the patient to directly interact with the program code via the periodic dialogs. The system and method utilizes a therapy alteration permission level (TAPL) limiting the possible self-adjustments available to the patient to change the patient's therapy. Via the interactive dialogs, the patient self-selects aspect words concerning the patient's current pain allowing the program code to adjust the patient's medication therapy within the TAPL.
US08628459B2 Axial flow-pump with multi-grooved rotor
An axial-flow blood pump for pumping blood includes a substantially cylindrical outer enclosure. A tubular housing concentric with and located within the outer enclosure has at one end an inlet and at an opposite end an outlet. A motor stator is concentric with and located between the outer enclosure and the tubular housing. An impeller is concentric with and located within the tubular housing. The impeller is suspended in operation by a combination of passive magnetic forces between magnets within the impeller or magnetized regions of the impeller and the motor stator and hydrodynamic thrust forces generated as blood flows between the tubular housing and a plurality of hydrodynamic thrust bearing surfaces located on the impeller. A volute may be in fluid-tight connection with the outlet of the tubular housing for receiving blood in the axial direction and directing blood in a direction normal to the axial direction. The volute has a flow-improving member extending axially from the volute and into and coaxially with the tubular housing.
US08628457B2 Method for folding sheets
A folding machine and a method of folding sheets of paper, board and the like with underlapping, include at least a first folding station with folding units and an imbricated feeder for feeding sheets to the first folding station, over an aligning table, in a first transporting direction. The imbricated feeder has a device for separating the sheets and a suction configuration which can be adjusted in and counter to the first transporting direction and is intended for the underlapping transfer of sheets from a sheet stack of the imbricated feeder to the aligning table.
US08628445B2 Vehicle-driving system
A vehicle driving system includes, a first drive shaft and a second drive shaft; a differential mechanism; a drive input member which inputs a power from a driving power source to the differential mechanism; and a fastening member that fastens the differential mechanism and the drive input member together, wherein the differential mechanism includes: a first sun gear; a second sun gear; a first pinion gear; a second pinion gear that is engaged to the second sun gear and the first pinion gear; and a carrier that is fastened to the drive input member and rotatably supports the first pinion gear and the second pinion gear; and, wherein a spline joint portion that causes the carrier and the drive input member to be fitted in a spline manner is provided at an outer peripheral end portion of the carrier and an inner peripheral end portion of the drive input member.
US08628441B2 Torque splitting torque converter assembly
A hydrodynamic torque converter assembly includes an internal planetary gear assembly that splits torque between a torque converter and a direct path to the transmission input as well as a damper and a torque converter clutch. The torque converter assembly includes an input shaft that is driven by the engine output shaft and is coupled to both the planetary gear carrier of the planetary gear assembly and the transmission hydraulic pump. The sun gear of the planetary gear assembly is coupled to the torque converter output shaft through a spring damper. The ring gear of the planetary gear assembly is coupled to one side of the torque converter clutch and the pump of the torque converter. The other side of the torque converter clutch is coupled to both the turbine of the torque converter and the spring damper. The stator of the torque converter is grounded. An alternate embodiment replaces the torque converter with a fluid coupling.
US08628438B1 Multi-bladed expandable broadhead
An aerodynamic multi-bladed expandable broadhead with rearward mounted overlapping blades with greater in-flight blade angles along with substantially perpendicular blade edges relative to the arrowhead body. Position of blades in flight guarantees they will always make a lethal cut on contact with an animal even before expansion. Greater in-flight blade angle means less force to open blades on hide guaranteeing expansion, and minimal rotation of blades to the penetration position results in a maximum entry cut and greater penetration. By expanding the distance between the blade edge and pivot a stronger blocky blade is produced. Geometry dictates during entry when blades hit bone on angle shots arrow direction will favorably remain in its intended lethal path to an animal.
US08628436B2 Lacrosse stick accessory
A lacrosse stick screwdriver assembly contained within a removable lacrosse stick butt end. The assembly comprises a drive head and a cavity to removably hold a screw all of which is adapted for containment within the butt end of the stick. When the lacrosse head is removed from the lacrosse stick, the screw holding them together is unscrewed and can be stored within the cavity of the assembly. The screw and screwdriver are thus stored with the lacrosse stick and are always available whenever needed, even on the playing field.
US08628435B2 Golf ball cores based on polyalkenamer and polybutadiene rubber blends
Golf balls containing a core comprising a blend of: a) about 1 to about 49 weight percent of a polybutadiene rubber having a relatively high Mooney viscosity, and b) about 51 to about 99 weight percent of a polyalkenamer rubber having a relatively low Mooney viscosity are provided. Single or multi-layered cores may be prepared. In addition, the golf ball includes a cover that may be single or multi-layered. The cover is preferably made of polyurethanes, polyureas, or blends thereof. The polyalkenamer/polybutadiene rubber composition helps provide the ball with high resiliency along with a soft feel.
US08628434B2 Golf club face with cover having roughness pattern
The present disclosure pertains to composite articles, and in particular a composite face plate for a golf club-head, and methods for making the same. In certain embodiments, a composite face plate for a club-head is formed with a cross-sectional profile having a varying thickness. The face plate comprises a lay-up of multiple, composite prepreg plies. At least a portion of the plies comprise a plurality of elongated prepreg strips arranged in a predetermined criss-cross pattern in the lay-up. The prepreg strips create one or more areas of increased thickness where the strips overlap each other, thereby creating a desired profile for the plate. Metallic or polymer covers or cover layers can be used to define a striking surface.
US08628424B1 Interactive spectator features for gaming environments
Systems and methods for exchanging virtual rewards for computing resources are provided herein. Exemplary methods may include receiving access to a portion of computing resources of an end user computing system and providing a virtual reward within a gaming environment to an end user in exchange for utilizing an amount of the portion of the computing resources of the end user computing system.
US08628415B2 Wagering game with 3D gaming environment using dynamic camera
A gaming system for playing a wagering game includes an input device for receiving a wager to play a wagering game, a display, and a controller. The controller is configured to display a three-dimensional view of at least a portion of a gaming environment and one or more movable visual elements disposed within the gaming environment. The controller is further configured to dynamically retain within the field of view a center point of a selected set of the movable visual elements.
US08628412B2 Gaming system, gaming device, and method for side wagering on bonus event outcomes generated in bonus events
In one embodiment, the gaming system enables a player to place one or more side bets on one or more outcomes associated with one or more bonus events, wherein the player participates in each of such bonus event(s) regardless of when that bonus event is triggered and regardless of which gaming device(s) in the gaming system is associated with the triggering of that bonus event. In another embodiment, the gaming system enables a player to place a side bet which is associated with an eligibility period, such as a designated period of time or a designated quantity of games played. If no bonus events are triggered during the associated eligibility period, the placed side bet is lost and the gaming system does not provide the player any bonus event awards in association with the placed side bet.
US08628407B2 Community gaming system outcome indicators
A gaming system for playing a wagering game is provided which includes a plurality of gaming machines (10a-1Of) configured to play a wagering game and to participate in a community-event. A movable member (99) is disposed substantially adjacent to the plurality of gaming machines and is configured to move relative to the plurality of gaining machines from a first position to a second position during a community-event (S500) in response to a single triggering event (S505). The movable member is moved relative to the plurality of gaming machines during a community-event to reveal at least one community-event outcome for the community-event (S510)
US08628396B2 Multiplay poker wagering game with payout differentiating display of probabilities
A method of operating a gaming system including receiving credits from a player for a play of each of a quantity of games; for each play, displaying a partial play; automatically applying a first amount of credit to each displayed partial play; thereafter, displaying: for each displayed partial play, an individual probability of the play resulting in a winning outcome; distinct payout rates for each displayed individual probability; and enhanced payout rates for each displayed individual probability; thereafter, enabling the player to select one of the displayed partial plays; automatically applying a second amount of credit on the player selected partial play; for each play, displaying a result and any associated award; if the result of the player selected play is a winning outcome, determining an enhanced payout according to the enhanced payout rate associated with the player selected play; and displaying any awards associated with said displayed results.
US08628395B2 Player choice game feature
A gaming machine has display means and a game control means. A game is played in which one or more random events are displayed on the display means and, if a predefined winning event occurs, the machine awards a prize. On the occurrence of a predefined event, the player is offered a choice of two or more different prize sets, each containing a plurality of prize outcomes. The prize is drawn from the prize set or sets selected. The sets of prizes may be presented on segments of wheels that can spin before stopping randomly on a segment which defines the prize outcome. Alternatively the sets of prizes are presented on the faces of dice which are arranged to spin before stopping with the front face of the die defining the prize won.
US08628382B2 Workpiece holder for a surface grinding machine
A workpiece holder for a surface grinding machine is provided. The workpiece holder includes a central workpiece holder shaft around which the workpiece holder can be driven in rotation, at least one workpiece fixture to hold at least one workpiece, and at least two holder parts movable relative to one another that jointly define the at least one workpiece fixture and that can be fixed relative to one another by means of a joining device.
US08628381B2 Drywall sponge sander
A sanding device for use with an abrasive sponge includes a base, at least one retaining mechanism, and at least one engaging mechanism. The base has opposite supporting and working surfaces, the working surface being shaped and sized for receiving the abrasive sponge. Each retaining mechanism is mountable onto the base, and is configured for removably securing a first portion of the abrasive sponge against the working surface of the base. Each engaging mechanism is mountable onto the base, and is configured for projecting out from the working surface so as to penetrate a second portion of the abrasive sponge when resting against the working surface of the base, each engaging mechanism being further configured so as to draw the second portion of the abrasive sponge away from the first portion. Each engaging mechanism is operable between a first configuration, where it is disengaged from the abrasive sponge thereby allowing the abrasive sponge to be removed from the working surface of the base, and a second configuration, where it is penetrated within the second portion of the abrasive sponge and has drawn the second portion away from the first portion so as to securely maintain the abrasive sponge against the working surface of the base.
US08628380B2 Direct motor-drive portable angle grinder
The present invention is an original direct motor-drive portable angle grinder with a disc type motor installed in a position adjacent to the grinding wheel and an outer motor rotating part coaxially and directly driving the grinding wheel. By means of the direct drive, the present invention prevents the emission of noise made by angle type transmission devices. Moreover, an inertial body is installed on the rotating housing that is integrated with the rotating part to form a flywheel or the rotating housing and the inertial body are integrated into a single reinforced structure to enable a flywheel function in order to improve the grinding, polishing and machining or cutting abilities of the grinding wheel.
US08628376B2 In-line wafer thickness sensing
A method of forming bare silicon substrates is described. A bare silicon substrate is measured, wherein measuring is performed by a non-contact capacitance measurement device to obtain a signal at a point on the substrate. The signal or a thickness indicated by the signal is communicated to a controller. An adjusted polishing parameter according to the signal or thickness indicated by the signal is determined. After determining an adjusted polishing parameter, the bare silicon substrate is polished on a polisher using the adjusted polishing parameter.
US08628367B2 Method for measuring deviation of joint position of member and method for producing spark plug
In a method for measuring deviation of a ground electrode from an optimal igniting position, a metallic shell is engaged with a female thread jig. Then the axis O of the metallic shell, a predetermined first measuring point P1 and a predetermined second measuring point P2 on a front end face of the ground electrode are detected. Then, a circumferential angle β1 formed between a reference straight line “LS” connecting O to the optimal igniting position O1, and a first straight line L1 which connects O to P1 is measured, followed by a measurement of a circumferential angle β2 formed between LS and a second straight line L2 connecting O to P2 Thereafter, the deviation of the ground electrode from O1 is measured as a circumferential angle “α” between “LS” and a third straight line L3 connecting the axis O to the center C of the front end face.
US08628364B2 Outboard motor
An outboard motor in which exhaust of an engine is emitted into water via an exhaust passage. The outboard motor comprises a throttle valve connected to an air intake port of the engine via an air intake manifold, a control motor for driving the throttle valve to open and close, and a controller for controlling the control motor. The controller controls the control motor such that the throttle valve fully closes when a determination is made that reverse rotation is occurring in the engine. The exhaust passage is communicated with the air intake manifold via a communication passage. A communication valve which opens only when reverse rotation is occurring in the engine is located at a portion where the communication passage and the air intake manifold connect.
US08628362B2 Connector with elastic deformation member
A connector to be connected to a mating connector, includes a connector main body including a cylindrical member, a supporting member disposed in the cylindrical member, a terminal supported on the supporting member, and a fitting portion having an engaging portion; a movable sleeve including a diameter control portion; an elastic deformation member disposed to be elastically deformable in a radial direction thereof; an accommodating portion disposed between the connector main body and the movable sleeve for accommodating the elastic deformation member; and a transmission unit for transmitting a force in the axial direction from the movable sleeve to the elastic deformation member when the movable sleeve moves, and for transmitting a force in the radial direction from the elastic deformation member to the movable sleeve when the elastic deformation member returns to an original shape.
US08628356B2 Right angle adaptor
An adaptor includes a first and second recess that face in opposing directions and that are configured to receive a first and second connector. A floor in the adaptor can separate the first recess from the second recess. A pin array can be positioned in the floor and the pin array can extend in two directions from the floor so as to extend into the first and second recess. The pin array can include terminals that are configured with first and second contact ends that are respectively positioned in the first and second recess. The first and second contact ends can be respectively configured with a first and second orientation that are at a right angle with respect to each other.
US08628352B2 Coaxial cable connector assembly
A coaxial cable connector is provided. The connector includes a main body, the main body configured to receive a prepared coaxial cable, a contact having a through bore, a pin having a protrusion and a socket, the through bore configured to receive the protrusion, the socket disposed within the main body and configured to receive a center conductive strand of the coaxial cable, a first insulator body disposed within the main body, the first insulator body, an outer conductor engagement member, a compression member, wherein advancing the compression member to axially advance the outer conductor engagement member also axially advances the center conductive strand into the socket, axially advances the protrusion of the pin into the through bore, and axially advances the outer conductive layer of the coaxial cable to achieve an operational state of the connector.
US08628339B2 Flexible printed circuit connector
The present invention relates to an electrical connector for connecting flexible printed circuit (FPC) boards. The connector has a housing and contact terminals disposed in the housing. An actuator is pivotally attached to the housing. The housing has a pair of retaining members between which a holding portion is defined. An FPC board is inserted into the holding portion and fixed to the housing by the actuator to establish electrical connection with the contact terminals. Each retaining member is supported by a metal bracket which is attached to the housing to increase the holding strength. The metal bracket has a main portion, a fixing portion and a support portion both expending perpendicularly from the main portion. A pair of lugs formed at side edges of the FPC board engage with the retaining members such that back movement of the FPC board from the housing is prevented.
US08628338B2 Printed board, and car-mounted electric connection box containing the printed board
To reduce the number of terminals that protrude from a printed board and to lower a cost in production of the base. A printed board including an electrical junction unit provided with a set of terminals soldered on printed boards. The set of terminals comprise first type terminals each having a small sectional area and second type terminals each having a sectional area greater than that of each of the first type terminals. The electrical junction unit is any one of only the first type terminals, only the second type terminals, and a combination of the first and second type terminals. The first type terminals are inserted into and protrude from through-holes in a base and are soldered on the printed boards. The second type terminals are soldered on the printed boards without using the base.
US08628332B2 Communication devices and methods of use
A device and system to facilitate communication between a first communicator and a second communicator to teach desired behaviors, values, principles, and skills. The device includes a plush or stuffed toy form having one or more pockets which are sized and configured to receive one or more communication symbols. The communication symbols may represent thoughts, feelings, actions, goals, behavior, values, or other concepts to be discussed by the first communicator and second communicator. First communicator/second communicator discussion occurs as the communication symbols are placed into and removed from the pockets.
US08628331B1 Learning model for competency based performance
A system and method, a machine, and an article of manufacture of an occupational performance system and method for achieving occupational performance of competency based education and work force standards. The occupational performance system and method for achieving occupational performance includes: first, setting competency based goals with a goal setting diagram, to sequentially browse goal element lists, to sequentially select goal elements, to set competency based goals; second, recording in a performance record the competency based goals, goal status updates, progress notes, assessments, and artifacts in the performance record; and third, interacting in a community of practice including community members engaging in community activities, and sharing the performance record, and performing storage, retrieval, and operation of various combinations of occupational performance data fields selected from the competency based goals, performance record, and community of practice to improve occupational performance of the community of practice within the occupational performance system.
US08628330B2 Safety system for equipment
Apparatus (10) for promoting safe handling of equipment (12) comprises a display (14) for displaying a safety check relating to a prospective user's competency to use the equipment (12). A user manipulatable arrangement (20) enables the prospective user to enter data in response to the check. A controller (16) connected to the arrangement (20) is configured to operate a switch (24) to inhibit switching on or starting of the equipment, should the response data entered not meet with a predetermined criterion.
US08628319B2 Apparatus for manufacturing thermoformed plastic articles
An apparatus for vacuum thermoforming and printing plastic articles from a continuous web of plastic material in which a rotatable vacuum thermoforming drum has a plurality of vacuum thermoforming dies mounted on circumferentially surfaces. The drum further comprises a gear path and a cam path, each with a plurality of substantially flat and curved sections. A print structure in a frame includes a device for imparting ink to the articles after they are formed, and a linear bearing adapted to allow the printing cylinder to move in a constrained motion substantially normal to the central axis. The printing cylinder comprises a shaft with a pinion gear to engage the gear path and a cam roller to engage the cam path. As the drum rotates, the articles are formed, printed and separated in substantially a single operation.
US08628317B2 Vacuum pump with an axial oil feed conduit
A vacuum pump (10) suitable for mounting at a lower region of an engine such as in the oil sump of an engine. The vacuum pump (10) includes a casing (12) having a cavity (14) containing a movable member (18), wherein the cavity (14) is provided with an inlet (32) and an outlet (34) and the movable member (18) is movable to draw fluid into the cavity (14) through the inlet (32) and out of the cavity (14) through the outlet (34) so as to induce a reduction in pressure at the inlet. The vacuum pump (10) is further provided with an oil feed conduit (84) to supply oil to the cavity (14), the oil feed conduit (84) being provided with a valve (86) to prevent the flow of oil to the cavity (14) during periods when the pump is not operating.
US08628315B2 Fluid machine
Intended is to provide a fluid machine that can prevent wear of a rotation preventing pin. The fluid machine includes a housing, a fixed scroll fixed with respect to the housing, a turning scroll that revolves around the fixed scroll, and a rotation preventing mechanism that prevents the rotation of the turning scroll. The rotation preventing mechanism includes a rotation preventing pin projected from a wall surface at the housing side or the turning scroll side, and a restraining member that restricts the position of the rotation preventing pin by engaging with the rotation preventing pin. A projecting side end of the rotation preventing pin has a taper shape, and the end of the taper shape has an R-shape.
US08628312B2 Compressor including anti-rotation washer and method of assembly
A compressor may include a shell, a housing fixed within the shell, first and second scroll members disposed within the shell, a sleeve guide, a fastener, and a washer. The first scroll member may have a first spiral wrap extending from a first end plate and a radially outward extending scroll flange defining an opening. The second scroll member may have a second spiral wrap intermeshed with the first spiral wrap. The sleeve guide may be disposed within the opening in the scroll flange and may define an axial bore. The fastener may be disposed within the axial bore and engaged with the housing. The washer may be located between a head of the fastener and the scroll flange. A first portion of the washer may extend radially outward from the fastener head and may define a rotational stop inhibiting washer rotation through engagement with a rotationally fixed structure.
US08628305B2 Fluid intake and exhaust fittings for a compressor or pump
A compressor or vacuum pump fluid intake manifold has fluid intake and a pair of ports provided by male and female fittings that are slidably engaged to one another. The male fitting has a portion which forms a hollow plug which fits within a respective fluid intake of the compressor housing. The plug portion, or plug, is integrally molded with a longitudinal section of the male fitting member. In similar fashion, the female fitting includes a plug portion which interfaces with a fluid intake in the compressor housing. The plug portion is integrally molded with a longitudinal portion of the female fitting. In one embodiment, each of the plugs includes three extending flanges forming an integral portion of the plug. Two of the three flanges provide a contact pressure seal with portions of the compressor housing that define the fluid intakes which receive the plugs. The other flange serves to prevent the plugs from slipping out of the fluid intakes during normal use of the fluid intake manifold. Further, instead, each of the plugs can have a raised insert surface defining a groove with an O-ring and a flange integral with and extending from a surface of the plug.
US08628303B2 Wave energy converter
A self priming gravity wave water pump, double acting, vertically self adjusting incorporating a submerged column platform as shown in FIG. 4A, the submerged column platform (22) can be tethered (28) or secured by a pivot to a weight (29) or fixed into the water bed (31). The column (22) can be incorporated into an additional submerged water filled column chamber (23), to operate as a hydraulic tidal adjustable column platform. The gravity wave pump (9) is a wave energy converter using wave energy in the form of wave motion to displace a float (2), to lift the pumps reciprocating piston (12) and uses gravity, causing a weight (3) to push a piston down as the wave passes. The pump could pressurise piped water to a head of up to 100 meters or more and could pump pressures in excess of 150 pounds per square inch when adjusted accordingly.
US08628302B2 Single or multiple stage blower and nested volute(s) and/or impeller(s) therefor
An impeller comprising: a top shroud; a bottom shroud, a plurality of vanes extending from the top shroud to the bottom shroud, each said vane including a top edge at a radially inner portion of the vane in contact with the top shroud and a bottom edge at a radially outer portion of the vane in contact with the bottom shroud, such that a radially inner portion of the vane at the bottom edge of each vane is not in contact with or adjacent the bottom shroud and a radially outer portion of the vane at the top edge of each vane is not in contact with or adjacent the top shroud.
US08628301B2 Wind turbine rotor
Wind turbine rotor comprising a hub, a plurality of blades and at least one pitch system for rotating a blade substantially along its longitudinal axis, the pitch system comprising a motor, a drive pinion, a gear arranged to mesh with the drive pinion and a pitch bearing, the pitch bearing comprising an outer bearing ring connected to the hub, an inner bearing ring connected to a blade and, between these two bearing rings, one or more rows of rolling elements which allow both bearing rings to rotate relative to each other, wherein the inner bearing ring has an inner side, and wherein a reinforcement disc is radially fixed to the inner side of the inner bearing ring.
US08628296B2 Exhaust-gas turbocharger
An exhaust-gas turbocharger includes a bearing flange for securement of the exhaust-gas turbocharger to a bearing housing of a turbine wheel. The bearing flange is provided with an outer circumferential fin having a base portion which terminates in a free end. The base portion is defined by a width which is greater than a width of the free end. An outer housing is welded to the outer circumferential fin of the bearing flange, and accommodates an impeller housing.
US08628295B2 Regulatable coolant pump and method for its regulation
A regulatable coolant pump and a method for regulation of this regulatable coolant pump for internal combustion engines, which is driven by way of a pulley actives a valve slide using an electromagnetically activated piston pump equipped with a return spring in the form of a pressure spring. The pump implements a “pump feed” using many small “partial lifts.” A “leakage volume stream” that flows opposite to the “pumped volume stream” is superimposed on the “pumped volume stream” via the arrangement of circular apertures both in the inlet valve membrane of the working piston and in the outlet valve membrane so that the valve slide can be moved in defined manner and in a very robust and reliable manner, with low drive power via the defined superimposition of these two volume streams.
US08628294B1 Turbine stator vane with purge air channel
A stator vane for an industrial turbine, the vane includes a serpentine flow cooling circuit for cooling of the airfoil, and a separate purge air channel to supply purge air to the rim cavities. The purge channel is formed as a separate channel from the serpentine flow channels so that the purge air is not heated by the hot metal and has smooth surfaces so that pressure losses is minimal.
US08628292B2 Eccentric chamfer at inlet of branches in a flow channel
A flow channel with a branch channel perpendicular to a main channel including an edge defining an inlet opening of the branch channel is provided. A chamfer is disposed at the upstream edge of the inlet opening and a straight edge is disposed at the downstream edge of the inlet opening, perpendicular to the main channel.
US08628285B2 Retaining nut
A retaining nut comprises a nut body and a plurality of axially extending integrally formed deflectable locking fingers. The locking fingers have a frusto-conical surface opposite a threaded surface. The frusto-conical surface of the locking fingers are adapted to co-operate with a conical washer. Tightening the threaded nut on a threaded shaft against the washer causes the locking fingers to deflect radially towards the shaft. This provides a secure radial clamping of the nut on the shaft.
US08628282B2 Supply and resetting hydraulic unit for a lifting assembly with two separate simultaneously actuated powered bearings
A hydraulic unit (1) mounted on a vehicle with an adjustable platform which is supported by two mechanically separate arms actuated by a separate hydraulic lifting device (5, 6). The hydraulic unit has the supply and return and preferably includes a balance valve (21) for controlling lowering of the platforms; a flow divider (22) enabling a division of the supply fluid into two flows having an identical flow rate, and each supplying one of the hydraulic lifting devices; and a resetting solenoid valve (23) that, when the operator controls the resetting of the hydraulic lifting devices, regardless of the operation direction and position thereof, and isolates one of the hydraulic devices (6) in order to immobilize the same while the other hydraulic lifting device (5 or 6) is adjusted.
US08628277B2 Cutting apparatus
A cutting apparatus includes a workpiece supplying member, a positioning mechanism, a transportation robot, and an annular cutting blade. The workpiece supplying member includes a number of slots for receiving a number of plate-shaped workpieces therein. The positioning mechanism includes a number of side surfaces and a number of recesses. The transportation robot is configured for unloading a workpiece from the workpiece supplying member, transporting the workpiece from the workpiece supplying member to the positioning mechanism, and loading the workpiece on the positioning mechanism. The positioning mechanism is rotatable about the central axis such that one of the side faces can be selectively oriented to face the transportation robot so as to load the workpiece transported by the transportation robot in the corresponding recess. The cutting blade is configured for cutting a workpiece loaded on the positioning mechanism.
US08628276B2 Fluidising apparatus with swirl-generating means
According to the present invention there is provided fluidizing apparatus comprising: a flow chamber 2 having a fluid inlet 4 and a fluid outlet 6; means 18 for establishing a swirling flow in a fluid passing out of the fluid outlet; and a transport outlet 30 for transporting fluidized material away from the flow chamber 2, the transport outlet 30 being situated externally of the flow chamber 2.
US08628272B2 Pipeline connection apparatus and method
A pipeline alignment termination device comprises a connecting piece (22, 24, 28) connected at its first end to a pipeline (29). The connecting piece is supported on a skid base (12) by an articulated support (24). Adjustable constraints (25, 26, 30, L) operable by ROV, permit the second end (20) to be accurately aligned by transverse and rotational adjustments with the end of a spoolpiece (232, 234). After alignment and connection, constraints on the rotation and transverse movement are removed, leaving the connecting piece supported but free to move with up to five degrees of freedom.
US08628269B2 Rotating drive shaft coupling
A rotatable coupling is used with a replaceable developer cartridge and electrostatographic image devices. The coupling has a driven portion and a driving portion. The driven portion has a shaft with a connecting portion that has a plurality of helical involute teeth extending outwardly. The driving portion has an end with a gear shaft and a twisted petaline recess in the gear shaft. The sides of the recess are engageable with the helical involute teeth so that the driving portion drives the driven portion and transmit torque.
US08628264B2 Oral care implement
An oral care implement includes a handle, a head mounted to one end of the handle that includes a first face having a plurality of tooth cleaning elements extending therefrom and a second face, a store of dentifrice retained at the head, and a film matrix retained at the head containing at least one rapidly releasable agent. A soft tissue cleaner can be included on the second face. The at least one rapidly releasable agent can be provided to the first and/or second faces during use from the film matrix. In addition, dentifrice can be provided to the first and/or second faces during use from the store of dentifrice. The at least one rapidly releasable agent can include, for example, a flavoring agent, a dentifrice, or a therapeutic agent. The toothbrush can be small in size and lightweight so as to be readily portable for use away from the home.
US08628249B2 Angular contact ball bearing
A sealed, single row angular contact ball bearing which has a seal arranged at both axial ends in a region of the rims. One bearing ring has on both sides one receiving opening for the sealing lip carrier and the associated other bearing ring has on both sides one sealing face for the sealing lip. The rims are coordinated with one another in such a way that receiving openings and sealing faces lie in one plane at the same radial spacing from a bearing axis. It is ensured in this way that the same seal can be used for sealing the angular contact ball bearing of generic configuration on both sides.
US08628235B2 Thermal test apparatus and method
Thermal test apparatus comprising a specimen supported by a fixture, a thermal shroud comprising a flexible insulating fabric forming an enclosure around at least a portion of the specimen, and a temperature controlled air supply connected to an opening formed in the enclosure for delivering a supply of temperature controlled air into the enclosure. Also, a method of conducting a thermal test.
US08628232B2 System and process for inhibitor injection
A method for introducing inhibitor into a fluid to be treated by forming a dispersion comprising droplets, particles, or gas bubbles of inhibitor dispersed in a continuous phase of a carrier, wherein forming the dispersion comprises subjecting a mixture of the inhibitor and the carrier to a shear rate of greater than about 20,000 s−1 in a high shear device comprising at least one generator comprising a rotor and a complementarily-shaped stator, wherein the rotor and the stator each comprise grooves, and wherein the grooves of the stator and the grooves of the rotor of each generator are disposed in alternating directions, and using at least a portion of the dispersion to inhibit corrosion.
US08628231B2 Diffusion plate and display apparatus having the same
A diffusion plate includes a base having a top surface and a bottom surface and a plurality of parallel convex ridges integrally formed on the top surface of the base while extending in one direction. Each convex ridge has a cross section shaped as a portion of an ellipse. The display apparatus includes a display panel, a light source and the diffusion plate.
US08628225B2 Charge port illumination system for electric vehicle
A charge port illumination system for an electric vehicle includes a charge port at an electric vehicle for electrically connecting to a charging source to charge a power source of the electric vehicle. A self-contained sealed module is disposed at or proximate to the charge port and includes at least one illumination source. The illumination source, responsive to an activating event associated with an electric charging event of the electric vehicle, is activated to provide illumination at the charge port. The activating event may include detection of touch at or movement of a cover panel and/or a signal from a remote transmitting device or a passive entry device or a motion detection device. The illumination source may be automatically deactivated after at least one of a period of time after activation, plugging in a charging source at the charge port and closing a cover panel at the charge port.
US08628218B2 Lamp incorporating supporting body for easily mounting to a support
A lamp includes a supporting body and a lamp body. The supporting body is fixed to a support such as a ceiling. The supporting body defines a plurality of apertures each including a hole and a slot. The slot has a width less than a diameter of the hole. The lamp body includes a housing, a heat sink, a light source and a cover. The housing forms a plurality of protrusions each including a pole and a head. The head has a diameter larger than a width of the slot. The protrusions extend through the holes of the apertures and then are rotated into the slots, whereby the heads are located above the slots and engage with the supporting body. Thus, the lamp is suspended from the support. A resilient member is provided between the housing and the supporting body.
US08628216B2 Lighting including integral communication apparatus
A lighting and communication system for use in a standardized light fixture is provided. The lighting and communication system includes a light source and a communication apparatus. At least one electrical connector configured for physical and electrical connection to the standardized light fixture is included, and the at least one electrical connector is electrically connected to the light source and the communication apparatus.
US08628210B2 Portable light
A portable light is disclosed including a housing having an upper end, a lower end and a cavity for receiving a power source therein. The housing further includes at the upper end a channel having channel walls and a plurality of LED lights in the channel. The channel walls have a height greater than the height of the LED lights.
US08628193B2 Automatic accommodative spectacles using a scene analyzer and focusing elements
A pair of spectacles that can automatically change its power so that a fixation region of interest (ROI) of the user is always in focus. The automatic accommodative spectacle device includes focusing elements, scene sensors, scene analyzer, focus engine, focusing element controller, and power supply. The scene analyzer determines the fixation ROI in the scene by analyzing the scene images. The fixation ROI is used to determine powers for the focusing elements in order to bring the fixation ROI into focus. The focusing element controller carries out the needed optical power adjustment to apply to the focusing elements. Optional light sources may be provided to the scene sensors. Additional optional eye sensor(s), eye light source and line of sight detector can be used to help the scene analyzer extract the fixation ROI.
US08628181B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a first nozzle for ejecting a first type of liquid for base coating onto a recording target medium and a second nozzle for ejecting a second type of liquid onto a base formed as a result of the base coating. A distance between the first nozzle and the recording target medium is shorter than a distance between the second nozzle and the recording target medium.
US08628178B2 Liquid droplet discharge device
The liquid droplet discharge device according to this invention has a storage portion which stores liquid, a first supply pipe which is connected to the storage portion and to which the liquid is supplied from the storage portion, a container which is connected to the first supply pipe and to which the liquid is supplied from the first supply pipe, a head which discharges the liquid supplied from the container, and a stirring member which stirs the liquid in the container, in which the capacity of the container is equal to or larger than the capacity of the first supply pipe.
US08628177B2 Methods, apparatus, and systems for spreading radiation curable gel ink
A radiation curable gel ink spreading system includes a print head for jetting radiation curable gel ink onto a front side of a substrate, a heated re-flow drum for contacting a back side of the substrate to heat the gel ink and cause the ink to re-flow, and at least one radiation source that irradiates the heated ink to reduce or stop re-flow. A re-flow drum temperature, amount of radiation emission per unit time, radiation source location including a substrate wrap angle with respect to the re-flow drum and/or the radiation source, a distance between a re-flow zone start and the radiation source, and a gap distance between the radiation source and the substrate, and a process speed or substrate translation speed are adjustable for achieving desired spreading characteristics.
US08628173B2 Electrical interconnect using embossed contacts on a flex circuit
A print head has a jet stack having an array of jets, an array of transducers arranged on the jet stack such that each transducer corresponds to a jet in the array of jets, and a flexible circuit substrate arranged adjacent the array of transducers such that contact pads on the flexible circuit substrate make electrical connection to at least some of the array of transducers, the flexible circuit substrate being embossed so that the contact pads extend out of a plane of the flexible circuit substrate.
US08628172B2 Liquid ejecting head and image forming apparatus
Disclosed is a liquid ejecting head, including two nozzle sequences, each nozzle sequence including nozzles for ejecting a liquid drop, separate liquid chambers communicating with the nozzles, and two common liquid chambers for supplying a liquid to the separate liquid chambers and correspond to the two nozzle sequences, each common liquid chamber including a supply port for supplying a liquid thereto, an aperture, a cross-section thereof in a second direction orthogonal to a first direction of arrangement of the plural nozzles decreasing toward an end portion thereof in the first direction, wherein the supply port and aperture of one of the two common liquid chambers are provided at one end portion and the other end portion in the first direction, respectively, and the supply port and aperture of another one are provided at the other end portion and the one end portion in the first direction, respectively.
US08628168B2 Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes an ejection device, a suction device, and a controller. The ejection device has a first nozzle and a second nozzle to eject a first liquid and a second liquid, respectively. The first liquid contains pigment particles dispersed in a dispersion medium and the second liquid contains a color material. In a first image formation mode for ejecting the second liquid from the second nozzle without ejecting the first liquid from the first nozzle, the controller controls the suction device so as not to suction the first liquid for recovery operation. When the first image formation mode is switched to a second image formation mode for ejecting at least the first liquid from the first nozzle, the controller controls the suction device so as to suction a predetermined amount of the first liquid determined based on solidification of the first liquid to perform the recovery operation.
US08628158B2 Aisle containment system
The present invention is directed to an adjustable transparent vertical wall in an aisle containment system. The adjustable transparent vertical wall includes a fixed lower panel and a movable upper panel. The movable upper panel is adjustable to the required ceiling height.
US08628136B2 Motorcycle fairing
A fairing unit (21) for enclosing a front portion of a vehicle body includes a fairing body (22) and a front edge member (23) mounted removably on the fairing body and forming a major component of a front edge of the fairing unit. The front edge member is made up of left and right front edge pieces (23a, 23b). A fairing assembly (43) includes the fairing unit and turn signal lamps (44A, 44B) mounted on the fairing body at a location rearwardly of the front edge member so as to protrude in a direction laterally outwardly thereof. The turn signal lamp is supported for collapsible movement in a direction laterally inwardly.
US08628130B2 Workpiece transfer apparatus for press machine and crossbar unit
Provided is a workpiece transfer apparatus for a press machine including: a workpiece retaining device which is supported by a crossbar extending to be approximately orthogonal to a workpiece transfer direction, and is capable of retaining and releasing a workpiece; a guiding device which supports and guides the workpiece retaining device so that the workpiece retaining device is slidable along a longitudinal direction of the crossbar; a driving device which drives the workpiece retaining device supported and guided by the guiding device so that the workpiece retaining device is moved along the longitudinal direction of the crossbar; and a brake device which acts in a path different from a path of the driving device, the brake device being capable of fixing and releasing a position of the workpiece retaining device with respect to the longitudinal direction of the crossbar.
US08628128B2 Tertiary lock for pivot door thrust reverser
A locking assembly partially housed between a forward bulkhead and an aft bulkhead of an aircraft's fan duct for preventing a pivot door of a thrust reverser from inadvertently opening during flight and providing over-stow assistance during opening and closing of the pivot door. The locking assembly may comprise a lock arm configured to mate with a lock arm receiver fixed to the pivot door. The lock arm may have a first portion pivotally attached to a locking assembly housing mounted between the bulkheads, and a second portion extending aftward through an opening in the aft bulkhead. When the lock arm is pivoted away from the pivot door, the second portion may be configured to push inward against the lock arm receiver, urging the pivot door inward while simultaneously moving the lock arm away from the lock arm receiver to allow the pivot door to open outward.
US08628116B2 Transparent deposit carrier having a plurality of pockets
Described is an apparatus that includes a transparent film having a plurality of non-overlapping pockets created therein, each of the pockets including at least one opening and being sized and shaped to receive a check therein. The apparatus also includes front and back indicators disposed on front and back faces of the film, respectively, and unique pocket indicators disposed on the pockets.
US08628113B2 Side impact absorbing apparatus for vehicle
A side impact absorbing apparatus for a vehicle includes an impact bar, an impact absorbing member that has a portion which overlaps the impact bar, and a side airbag. The impact absorbing member has a first portion to which a load is applied from the deployed side airbag, and a second portion which is a portion of the impact absorbing member other than the first portion. The first portion is smaller in thickness at least at a connection portion that is connected to the second portion than a portion of the second portion, which is connected to the first portion from below the first portion.
US08628109B2 User interface for a power folding stroller
A user interface for a power folding stroller includes: a rotational mechanical joint positioned on the handlebars of the stroller. The rotational mechanical joint is coupled to electrical sensors that must be activated by the user rotating a ring combined with a second step of pressing a button to activate the folding or unfolding process. Once the ring has been rotated the required distance and returned to a home position, an indication, such as an LED light, may be provided to the user that the second action of pushing the button can be undertaken.
US08628102B2 Extended crank system
An extended crank system for a bicycle or similar crank driven system has frame with a bottom bracket and a pair of cranks operatively connected to opposite ends of the bottom bracket. A chain ring is operatively connected to one of the cranks. A crank hub is rotatably connected to each of the cranks and extends away from and is substantially parallel to the bottom bracket. A pair of crank extensions is connected to the crank hub, and a pair of crank extension hubs is connected to the pair of crank extensions. Additionally, a pair of crank followers is pivotably connected to opposite ends of the crank extension hubs at respective first ends of the crank followers, as well as pivotably connected to opposite ends of a top bracket mounted to the frame above the chain ring and behind the seat post, at respective second ends of the crank followers.
US08628095B2 Gasket for a pressurized fluid interface
A gasket loop includes a gasket shape with a first portion characterized by a cross-sectional view. The first portion in the cross-sectional view includes a substantially elongated body characterized by a height, a first end characterized by a height, a tip, a width enlarged relative to the body, and a tapered backside. The tapered backside is integral with the body. The first portion in the cross-sectional view additionally includes a distal second end connected to the body. A fluid-pressure joint assembly and a method of sealing such a joint via the gasket loop are also disclosed.
US08628089B2 Jigsaw puzzle having one or more puzzle pieces that can be bent
The disclosure relates to a jigsaw puzzle having at least one puzzle piece that can be bent along at least one predefined bending line, and that has an upper side and a lower side and a puzzle piece thickness extending between the upper side and the lower side which is reduced from an inner side of a bend along each bending line. In order to neutralise the resilient restoring force that acts in the bent state, on each side of each bending line there is a fixing device which releasably fixes a desired bending angle, each fixing device having at least one recess into which a corresponding protrusion engages in a clamping and/or latching manner when the puzzle piece is bent.
US08628088B2 Puzzle with three dimensional representation of geographic area
A puzzle kit for assembly into a three dimensional representation of a geographic region includes first pieces that form a first layer, second pieces that form a second layer on top of the first layer, and structure pieces mounted on the first and/or second layers. The first and second layers can include retaining elements for retaining the structure pieces. The retaining elements can take the form of voids. The first layer can include image elements visible through the voids of the second layer, and the image elements can include indicia to match the voids with the structure pieces. The first pieces can include anchoring pieces that are elevated and interlock with the second layer. The structure pieces can be sequentially assembled on the first and/or second layers according to an index. The assembled puzzle can represent a city, and the structure pieces can represent buildings within the city.
US08628076B2 Sheet feeding device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding device, capable of reliably feeding sheets that have a curl, includes a sheet surface detection mechanism configured to detect an upper surface of a topmost sheet of sheets supported on a tray. The sheet surface detection mechanism includes a sensor unit arranged on a upstream side of a suction and conveyance mechanism in a sheet conveyance direction, a sensor lever configured to turn the sensor unit ON/OFF, and a detection unit having one end connected to the sensor lever and another end that extends toward a downstream side in the sheet conveyance direction. The detection unit includes, on a downstream side in the sheet conveyance direction, a protruding member that protrudes in a downward direction and that is capable of contacting the topmost sheet supported on the tray.
US08628075B2 Feed mechanism for laminating machine
Means (17, 22, 23, 24, 25) is provided for intermittently lifting a stack (13) of paper so that the topmost sheet is captured by the suction of a traction device (15) and carried forward by the endless belt of the latter to the input end (21) of a laminating machine. Before the trailing end of the captured sheet has left the traction device (15) the lifting means again lifts the stack (13) so that the next sheet is captured in an overlapping relation to the first.
US08628071B2 Device for finish-machining of optically effective surfaces of workpieces, in particular spectacle lenses
A device (10) for finish-machining of optically effective surfaces of workpieces, in particular spectacle lenses (L, L′), is disclosed, comprising at least one workpiece spindle (30, 30′), to which a workpiece can be clamped, at least one tool spindle (28, 28′), which is movable relative to the workpiece spindle and at which a tool (46) for machining the workpiece can be mounted, and a loading system (22) for bringing a workpiece to and taking it away from the workpiece spindle and bringing a tool to and taking it away from the tool spindle. The loading system comprises a loading head (82), which is separate from workpiece spindle and tool spindle, with at least one loading section (102, 102′) equipped with at least one mount (106, 106′) for a workpiece and at least one mount (104, 104′) for a tool, so that both the tool and the workpiece can be loaded in a time-saving single loading process.
US08628069B2 Apparatus for guiding and aligning semiconductor chip package
Provided is an apparatus for guiding and aligning a semiconductor chip package. The apparatus may include an insert, a plate above the insert, and an adapter. The insert may be configured to house various sizes of semiconductor chip packages. The plate may be configured to move vertically with respect to the insert. The adapter may be coupled to the plate and may be configured to guide at least one semiconductor chip package into the insert and to perform alignment of the at least one semiconductor chip package. In accordance with example embodiments, the at least one semiconductor chip package may have a size corresponding to at least one of the various sizes.
US08628068B2 Retractable device for holding containers, and a container-processor installation fitted with such devices
A device for holding a bottom portion of a container in a container-processor installation, the device comprising a support core provided with a stationary abutment for a lateral surface of the bottom portion of a container, and with a shoe mounted to pivot about a substantially horizontal axis between a holding position in which the shoe extends in the vicinity of the abutment to co-operate with the bottom portion of the container, and a disengaged position in which the shoe is retracted to allow the bottom portion of a container to be inserted in the device and to be extracted from the device along a direction that is substantially coplanar with a direction in which the bottom portion of the container bears against the abutment. An installation including such a device.
US08628064B2 Multi-section pulling rod structure
A multi-section pulling rod structure, comprising: a retractable pulling rod, a positioning piece, and a plug set. The retractable pulling rod includes a first socket, a second socket, and at least a third socket, sleeved and fixed onto each other through their ends of small diameters, with their bottom ends provided respectively with a first plug, a second plug, and at least a third plug. Positioning piece is disposed inside second socket, and a plurality of positioning holes are provided on positioning piece. A press rod controls action of first plug, and at the same time brings second plug and third plug into action, so as to make steel beads on each plug to position in or detach from holes of each socket, and control steel bead of second plug to position in one of selected positioning holes on positioning piece, hereby reaching the extended height with minute adjustments.
US08628063B1 Tool for snapping and then extracting a loop panel tie from a workpiece
A tool for snapping and then extracting a loop panel tie from a workpiece which comprises a handle. A head extends at a right angle from the handle. A mechanism in the head is for snapping the loop panel tie in the workpiece. A mechanism on the handle at the head is for extracting the loop panel tie from the workpiece.
US08628055B2 Bi-direction rapid action electrostatically actuated microvalve
A bi-directional electrostatic microvalve includes a membrane electrode that is controlled by application of voltage to fixed electrodes disposed on either side of the membrane electrode. Dielectric insulating layers separate the electrodes. One of the fixed electrodes defines a microcavity. Microfluidic channels formed into the electrodes provide fluid to the microcavity. A central pad defined in the microcavity places a portion of the second electrode close to the membrane electrode to provide a quick actuation while the microcavity reduces film squeezing pressure of the membrane electrode. In preferred embodiment microvalves, low surface energy and low surface charge trapping coatings, such as fluorocarbon films made from cross-linked carbon di-fluoride monomers or surface monolayers made from fluorocarbon terminated silanol compounds coatings coat the electrode low bulk charge trapping dielectric layers limit charge trapping and other problems and increase device lifetime operation.
US08628053B2 System for fastening a seat in particular an aircraft seat and seat comprising at least one such system
This system comprising a base (2) provided in the vicinity of one of its ends with means in the form of jaws (3) for clamping and blocking in position of the system in the rail by pinching the latter between the base (2) and laterally protruding portions (4) of these means in the form of jaws (3), the base (2) and the means in the form of jaws (3) able to be displaced in relation to one another between a mounting/dismounting position of the system in the rail and a blocking position of the system by clamping around the rail, by the intermediary of the means of manoeuvring (6) that can be actuated by an operator, is characterized in that the means of manoeuvring (6) include a slide (7) which can be displaced in the base (2) by the operator and comprising at one end, a surface for manoeuvring (8) by the operator, at the other end, a ramp portion adapted (9) to cooperate with an additional ramp portion (10) of the means in the form of jaws (3) in order to displace the latter in relation to the base between the mounting/dismounting position and the blocking position, and in its intermediate portion, means that can be disengaged (11) for blocking in position of the slide (7) in the base (2) and therefore of the system in relation to the rail.
US08628047B2 System, method and device for conveying information from a wayside device
A system, method and device for communicating information from a wayside device to a vehicle are provided. In one embodiment, the device comprises. a first light unit configured to emit a first pattern of light in a non-visible spectrum; a second light unit configured to emit a second pattern of light in the non-visible spectrum; wherein said first pattern is distinct from said second pattern; an interface in communication with the first and second light units and configured to receive information of an operational mode of the wayside device; wherein the first and second light units are responsive to one or more first control signals from said interface to operate in a first mode, corresponding to a first operational mode of the wayside device, in which said first pattern of light is on and said second pattern of light is off; and wherein the first and second light units are responsive to one or more second control signals from said interface to operate in a second mode, corresponding to a second operational mode of the wayside device, in which said first pattern of light is off and said second pattern of light is on.
US08628046B2 Control system
The invention relates to a control system and to a method of operating such a control system, particularly to a control system for pilot command inputs for a helicopter, with a mechanical input signal (2), at least one electric position sensor (21, 21′) for said input signal (2), at least one electric power supply (25, 25′) and at least one controllable, electromechanical actuator (27, 27′) fed by the at least one electric power supply (25, 25′) and controlled by the at least one electric position sensor (21, 21′). The mechanical input signal (2) is applied mechanically to the at least one controllable electromechanical actuator (27, 27′).
US08628044B2 Stabilization of unstable space debris
Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method of altering the stability of unstable space debris. In some embodiments, the method further comprises changing the orbit of the unstable space debris.
US08628041B2 Method for realization of an aircraft structure and resulting structure
An aircraft structure includes a skin (28) that is reinforced in two directions: by a first family of stiffeners called stringers (30) that are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the aircraft, and by a second family of stiffeners called frames (32) that are arranged in planes that are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and that ensure the taking up of orbital forces, characterized in that at least one frame (32) has a hollow cross-section that is delimited by a closed profile, produced for a given cross-section in a single piece, of which one portion is in contact with the skin.
US08628040B2 Aircraft configuration
An aircraft configuration that may reduce the level of roaring jet exhaust noise, infrared radiation, sonic boom, or combination thereof directed towards the ground from an aircraft in flight. The aircraft's nacelles are mounted to the aircraft higher than the wings, with substantially vertical stabilizers outboard of the outermost engine. Noise shifting means are provided such as, for each nacelle, primary chevrons at the core nozzle, secondary chevrons at the fan nozzle, a partial bypass mixer, a long duct full flow mixer, or a combination thereof to provide a shift in spectrum distribution of jet exhaust noise from lower to higher frequency. Variable geometry chevrons may be used with increased immersion to provide such a shift just during noise-restricted portions of an aircraft flight profile. The aircraft aerodynamic structural surfaces serve as noise shielding barriers that more effectively block or redirect the frequency shifted noise up and away from communities.
US08628036B2 Tub grinder
A tub grinder has a rotor with hammers that pass between adjacent slug bars. The slug bars have a riser bar portion disposed on the top of the slug bars, the riser bar portions extending vertically higher on one end of each respective slug bar than on the other end of each respective slug bar so that the hammers extend farther beyond the top of the riser bar and slug bar when they pass by first end than when they pass by the second end of the riser bar.
US08628035B2 Blade set for jaws used in rail breaking demolition equipment
A blade set associated with jaws for demolition equipment used to break railroad rails includes a bottom blade associated with a bottom jaw and a top blade associated with a top jaw, wherein the bottom jaw and the top jaw are rotatable relative to one another. The bottom blade includes two spaced-apart support rails separated by a cavity, while the top blade includes a single raised knife rail positioned and central to the cavity and rotatable toward the cavity. The top blade additionally may be marked with indicia, such as red paint, such that the machine operator may properly orient the top blade during a cutting operation to maximize safety. Additionally, the recesses may also be aligned and sized to engage the head and the foot of a rail such that tension and/or a bending moment is introduced between the head and foot of the rail.
US08628027B2 Oscillating nozzle sprinkler assembly with matched precipitation and adjustable arc of coverage
An oscillating nozzle sprinkler with adjustable arc of coverage in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes a nozzle, a nozzle drive mechanism operable to drive the nozzle through a set arc of coverage, an arc set mechanism coupled to the nozzle drive mechanism and operable to adjust the set arc of coverage for the nozzle drive mechanism; and a flow control mechanism operable to vary a nozzle flow area through which water flows through the nozzle and out of the sprinkler, the flow control mechanism coupled to the arc set mechanism such that the flow area is adjusted with the arc of coverage.
US08628019B2 Configurable digital badge holder
A portable authentication system includes a security module, that may be a smart card, SIM (Subscriber Identity Module), USB controller with a secure chip, or similar module capable of storing one or more credentials, and an interface module such as a digital badge holder that is able to communicate with the security module, for instance by providing a smart card communication interface. The portable authentication system may be either a single integrated system or a dual system where the security module can be removed or disconnected from the interface system.
US08628017B2 Card with illuminated codes for use in secure transactions
A card for use in secure transactions includes a card body having a first major surface and a second major surface, the first major surface having a combination of a plurality of symbols disposed thereon. The card body has a plurality of LEDs disposed in connection with the plurality of preprinted symbols, individual ones of LEDs being disposed to identify respective individual ones of the plurality of symbols when illuminated. An LED controller is coupled to the plurality of LEDs and operable upon actuation to selectively illuminate individual ones of the plurality of LEDs to identify a sub-combination of the plurality of symbols, thereby providing an illuminated one-time code for use in a secure transaction.
US08628014B1 Light field instruction symbol identifier and method of use
An instruction symbol identifier comprising a digital imaging capturing features that utilizes a light field sensor to capture the intensity and direction of incident light is described. The instruction symbol identifier comprises a computing device, whereby a digitally captured image may be digitally focused to identify an instruction symbol. An instruction symbol identifier is described being coupled to a point of sale counter, whereby product bar codes may be identified more quickly and effectively than conventional bar code scanners. A light emitting feature and an image locator feature are described, to further enhance capturing an image.
US08628013B2 Apparatus comprising image sensor array and illumination control
There is set forth herein an indicia reading apparatus having a configuration in which an illumination assembly for projecting an illumination pattern is de-energized during subsequent exposure periods. In one embodiment the indicia reading apparatus includes a configuration in which the illumination assembly is energized intermediate of the exposure periods. The indicia reading apparatus is useful for reading decodable indicia that is displayed on a display.
US08628012B1 System and method for a baseband nearfield magentic stripe data transmitter
The present invention describes a system and a method for a baseband near-field magnetic stripe data transmitter (MST) device that transmits payment card data from a smart-phone, or other electronic device, into a Point of Sale (POS) transaction terminal. The MST device includes a driver and an inductor. The MST receives magnetic stripe data comprising payment card data, processes the received magnetic stripe data and emits high energy magnetic pulses comprising the processed magnetic stripe data that are then received remotely by the magnetic stripe reader of the POS.
US08628010B2 Automatic remote acquisition system for determining the configuration of an installation
There is described an automatic remote acquisition system for determining the configuration of an installation having a number of devices, which are divided into standard devices grouped by cabinets, and into non-standard devices, and are each defined by a respective number of elementary units. The remote acquisition system has a number of passive transponders, each associated with a respective elementary unit to memorize respective identification data of the elementary unit; a number of active transponders, each associated with a respective non-standard device to memorize at least the identification data of the respective number of elementary units; and, for the passive transponders, a number of control units, each mounted in a respective cabinet to acquire the identification data, memorized in the respective passive transponders, of the elementary units of the standard devices in the cabinet.
US08628008B1 System and method for card customization
A computer-implemented data processing system comprises eligibility logic and network interface logic. The eligibility logic is configured to generate a list of accounts that are eligible for customized cards (e.g., credit cards, debit cards) and that are associated with a user. The network interface logic is configured to generate a user interface for interaction with the user. The user interface includes screen displays configured to display the list of accounts and configured to receive card customization information from the user. The card customization information includes information regarding a custom image to be placed on a customized card.
US08628004B2 Automation control system components with electronic keying features
Systems and methods for utilizing electronic keying features stored within one of the components (e.g., I/O modules, terminal blocks, bases) of I/O devices may include reading or detecting the electronic keying features using electronic key identification circuitry in one of the other components of the I/O devices. More specifically, the electronic keying features may include unique identification keys that may be read or detected by the electronic key identification circuitry to determine whether the components (e.g., a paired I/O module and terminal block) are associated with each other and intended to operate together. For example, the electronic key feature may be disposed within a terminal block and the electronic key identification circuitry may be disposed within an I/O module, or vice versa. In addition, the electronic key feature and/or the electronic key identification circuitry may be removable from their respective component of the I/O device.
US08628001B2 Boxes
A partly constructed set up box in a generally flat configuration, the partly constructed set up box comprising an inner blank and an outer blank, wherein the inner blank and the outer blank are secured relative to each other by a securement means.
US08627992B2 Endovascular stapler
An endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel is disclosed. The stapler includes a staple housing adapted for storing at least one staple therein, the staple housing having an exit area for discharge of the at least one staple therethrough, an actuating assembly adapted for discharging the at least one staple through the exit area, and a displacement mechanism in operative association with the staple housing near the exit area. The displacement member is operative for pushing the exit area against the endograft when discharging the at least one staple therethrough. The discharged staple forms a plurality of opposed loops connected by a central element upon discharge. Also disclosed are staples and displacement mechanisms adapted for use with surgical instruments such as the present endovascular staplers. The staples may be formed from memory metal or other metal. The displacement mechanisms disclosed include balloons and rigid offsetting devices.
US08627987B2 Container with elevating inner wall
A container, for example for a food product or the like, provides an elevating lower inner surface that may sealably support a contained food product to raise the upper surface of the food product as it is consumed. Importantly, the container avoids an extension of the elevating mechanism into the product itself, reducing problems of contamination and leakage.
US08627985B2 Bottle with integral dip tube
Described is a fluid dispensing container having a bottle and fluid withdrawing assembly for liquids, such as liquid cleaners and the like. The bottle has an integral dip tube formed therein connecting at a landing below the top of the bottle neck, fluidly connecting the inside of the bottle with the top opening of the bottle. A fluid dispensing mechanism, such as a pump or trigger-sprayer, is attached to the top of the bottle to take fluid up through the integral dip tube and dispense the fluid accordingly. The fluid dispensing mechanism may be aligned to allow a direct connection between integral dip tube and the fluid dispensing mechanism at a landing below the bottle opening. The fluid dispensing mechanism may be attached to the bottle with a snap-fit connection.
US08627982B2 Thermal protector sleeve for hot drink cup
A thermal protection sleeve for use in combination with hot drink cups comprising a flat embossed sleeve or band of compressed paper embossed with straight-sided geometric figures over much of the surface thereof. However, overlapping end surface areas are not embossed but are glued together with a suitable biodegradable adhesive. In addition, an unembossed logo blank is provided substantially in the center of the band.
US08627981B2 Container
A container (210) for holding granular or powdered material and formed by a top wall (212), a bottom wall (214), a front wall (216), a rear wall (218), a first side wall (220), and a second side wall (222). A rotatably removable lid (D) is interiorly mounted with a scoop (32) and is pivotally hinged to a collar (300) that includes a sealing gasket (330). The collar (300) mounts to the walls of the container (210). A sealing wall 240 of the lid (D) cooperates with the gasket 300 to prevent the contents from spilling. The container (210) incorporates additional sealing features wherein the gasket (330) projects inwardly from the collar (300) into an interior space (H, I) of the container (210) to be biased against the sealing flange (284). The sealing wall includes modifications that funnel powder into the interior space (H,I) of the receptacle (280).
US08627976B2 Cart with latch
A cart including a container that defines an interior space. The cart also includes a cover that is movable between an open position providing access to the interior space and a closed position inhibiting access to the interior space, and a latch that is located between the container and the cover to releasably hold the cover in the closed position. The cart further includes a hands-free mechanism that is coupled to the container and engaged with the cover to move the cover between the open position and the closed position. The hands-free mechanism is further coupled to the latch and operable to disengage the latch to permit movement of the cover to the open position.
US08627971B2 Access shield for shipping container
The present invention is for an access shield for a shipping container, which container has a pair of doors and a plurality of supporting feet. An access shield for the shipping container is placed under the door end of the shipping container and is contained by the shipping container's weight with a pair of locking arms positioned behind the shipping container's feet to block access into a shipping container.
US08627966B2 Scalable shelving system
A shelving system includes a plurality of vertical posts and horizontal traverses. The horizontal traverses are coupled to the vertical posts by means of a bifurcated collar that are placed on each vertical post. Each horizontal traverse includes an end piece which is configured to couple to both halves of the bifurcated collar. Each half of the bifurcated collar comprises a wedge shaped design such that when a load is placed on the traverse, forces are applied to the bifurcated collar that squeezes each half of the collar together more tightly around the vertical post. The traverses may be coupled to one or both sides of the vertical post to allow the shelving system to be extended as far as the user desires in any lateral direction. The shelving system may also be extended in a perpendicular or other angular direction by means of a wedge shaped corner connector.
US08627961B2 Eddy current separator
An eddy current separator (“ECS”) separates electroconductive and non-electroconductive materials. The materials can include “fines” having diameters less than about 10 millimeters. The ECS includes first and second hubs coupled to opposite ends of a magnet support tube. Magnets are coupled to the magnet support tube, substantially between the hubs. A motor coupled to one or both of the hubs rotates the magnet support tube and magnets to generate an eddy current in electroconductive material conveyed proximate the separator. The material in which the eddy current is created is repelled and projected away from the ECS along a predictable trajectory. An eddy current is not generated in nonconductive material conveyed proximate the separator. Therefore, that material is not projected away. A jacket tube may house the magnets and contain centrifugal forces of the magnets during rotation thereof That tube may comprise a Ti60 titanium alloy or other material.
US08627957B2 Sealable secondary packaging for pharmaceutical product blister pack
A pharmaceutical product supply is disclosed in the form of a container, a pharmaceutical product receiver, pharmaceutical product, an adhesive, and at least one release liner. The pharmaceutical product receiver includes a plurality of receptacles for pharmaceutical product. The container is initially disposed in a first configuration where all of the pharmaceutical product receiver receptacles may be accessible. The container is thereafter disposable in a second configuration where no covering for any of the pharmaceutical product receiver receptacles is accessible through any openable access incorporated by the container. One or more release liners may be moved to expose adhesive for disposing and retaining the container in its second configuration. The noted second configuration of the container facilitates disposal of the pharmaceutical product supply (e.g., now being in a form that should reduce the potential for gaining access to any remaining pharmaceutical product still enclosed within the pharmaceutical product receiver).
US08627951B2 Pack for lump-form or granular material
A pack for in particular piece-form pack contents having a sealed inner pack (11) with removal opening (21) and closure flap (24), an outer pack (10) with box part or base part (27) and movable closure part (28), and a covering part (12) between the inner pack (11) and outer pack (10), the covering part (12) having an opening or a window (55) in the region of the removal opening (21) of the inner pack (11).
US08627940B2 Drive system for a passenger transport installation
A drive system for transport of a passenger transport installation including an escalator or a moving walkway. Steps or pallets of the transport are actively connected to pulling elements which can be moved in the transport direction by at least one electric motor provided with a gear train having a chain wheel. The electric motor containing the gear train is positioned in one of the reversing areas of the transport and a further electric motor exclusively serves for the linear motion of the transport. Bushes/rolls of plate link chains are adjacent to or roll along individual teeth of the chain wheel while only getting into line contact, outside the tooth ground of the chain wheel. A point of force application of the bushes/rolls on the respective tooth of the chain wheel is realized such that only a one-directional force application component is generated at the respective tooth.
US08627937B2 Power-transmission clutch
A clutch comprises two plates each connected to a respective shaft, so that rotary power may be transmitted. One shaft exerts engagement force near the center of the first plate, whereas the second shaft exerts engagement force about the circumference of the second plate. In this manner it is provided that the first plate tends to deform convexly, whereas the second plate tends to deform concavely, as the plates approach and then engage each other. Due to the geometry resulting from the deformation of the plates, engagement surfaces on the first plate are urged towards receiving surfaces on the second plate, with said surfaces entering into firm contact with each other, as said plates deform convexly and concavely respectively; despite the fact that when the plates are undeformed, there may be clearance rather than interference between said surfaces so that rotation is not transmitted between the plates.
US08627926B2 Method and apparatus for a stair assembly
A reusable stair system may allow for access to a platform, for example, at the top of a ramp so that able people are not required to travel the entire distance of the ramp to reach the main platform. The reusable stair system can be easily assembled and disassembled, having a number of legs that are attached to adjacent stairs. Legs may have two attachment regions for two stairs on either side of each leg and one of the stairs being located at a greater height than the other stair. The desired height of the main platform at the top of the stair system will determine the number of legs and corresponding stairs that will be used.
US08627915B2 Throttle position detector for two-wheeled electric vehicle
Inside of a swing arm (30) that pivotally supports a rear wheel (WR) of an electric two-wheeled vehicle (1) and that is freely swingably attached to a vehicle body, a battery (56), an electric motor (M) for driving the rear wheel (WR), and a board (50) serving as a control device for controlling the electric motor (M) are equipped. Coupling a throttle grip (80) and a throttle position sensor (60) by physical transmission means (62, 85, 86) therebetween allows a configuration so that a turning angle of the throttle grip (80) can be detected, and the throttle position sensor (60) is attached to the board (50). The board (50) is disposed with a planar portion oriented in a vehicle width direction.
US08627914B2 Energy recovery drive system and vehicle with energy recovery drive system
Vehicles of embodiments of the invention are propelled by an electric motor (DC or AC motor) coupled to one of the vehicle's axles. The electric motor is powered by two or more electrical storage devices (e.g., batteries or battery banks or capacitors). The electrical storage devices are charged by alternators driven by a rotating flywheel. The flywheel is selectively coupled to a different one of the vehicle axles, such that movement of the vehicle (caused by the electric motor) causes the rotation of the flywheel.
US08627909B2 Walking-assistant device
A walking-assistant device is provided comprising a driving unit that includes four wheels and four actuators for adjusting heights of the four wheels, a mechanism unit that includes two vertical frames whose length is adjusted and connection frames for fixing and connecting the vertical frames, and a manipulation unit that includes a plurality of sensors for grasping a user's moving intention and controls the driving unit and the mechanism unit based on a signal detected by the sensors.
US08627906B2 Connection system for charging an electric vehicle
The invention relates to an electrical connection system for a motor vehicle with electric drive so as to make it possible to electrically connect means of electrical energy storage of the vehicle to an electrical source with a view to their charging, characterized in that it comprises: at least one electrically conducting bar extending in such a way as to be accessible from beneath the vehicle between front and rear regions thereof, each electrically conducting bar comprising an electrically conducting active surface connected electrically to the means of electrical energy storage of the vehicle, the active surface being intended to come into contact with complementary means of the electrical source, protection means for protecting the active surface of the electrically conducting bar, the bar and the protection means being able to move relative to one another between a so-called charging position where the active surface of the bar is disengaged from the protection means and a so-called off-charge position where the active surface of the bar is covered by the protection means.
US08627898B2 Tillage system
A tillage system has a first set of deep tilling tines and a second set of shallow tilling coulter tines present in a number more than twice that of the deep tilling tines. The deep tilling tines till the field to a depth of about 5 to 12 inches at row planting locations, loosening the soil for easy plant growth. This deep grooving action builds mounds of soil at both sides of the deep groove which are cleared by a second set of shallow tilling curved coulter tines followed by a third set of plurality of rows of shallow tilling toothed coulters that till the space between grooves to a depth of about 1 to 4 inches, providing a water reservoir space and clearing plant debris. A last row of shallow tilling ruffled coulters are provided to mix and incorporate into soil plant debris and plant stocks, anchoring tilled soil.
US08627896B2 System, method and apparatus for conducting earth borehole operations
A system for conducting earth borehole operations comprising a CT carrier, a reel of CT rotatably mounted on the CT carrier, a mast carrier, separate from the CT carrier, a mast mounted on the mast carrier and movable between a lowered position for transport and a position transverse to the horizontal, a top drive carried by the mast, the top drive being longitudinally movable along the mast and a CT injector on the mast carrier.
US08627894B2 Ring member for a swellable downhole packer
A ring member for a downhole apparatus includes a swellable material selected to increase in volume on exposure to at least one triggering fluid. The ring member is configured to cooperate with a swellable member disposed on a body of the apparatus, and may function as a gauge ring or a retaining member. The ring member is secured to the apparatus via a coupling arrangement which couples the body to an adjacent well string section. The ring member is threaded into the well string. Alternately, the ring member may be disposed over an upstanding formation such as a coupling sleeve by clamping.
US08627887B2 In situ recovery from a hydrocarbon containing formation
An in situ process for treating a hydrocarbon containing formation is provided. The process may include providing heat from one or more heaters to at least a portion of the formation. The heat may be allowed to transfer from the one or more heaters to a part of the formation such that heat from the one or more heat sources pyrolyzes at least some hydrocarbons within the part. Hydrocarbons may be produced from the formation.
US08627884B2 Setting tool for expandable liner hanger and associated methods
A setting tool for an expandable liner hanger. A method includes the steps of: releasably securing the setting tool to the hanger, the setting tool including an expansion cone for displacing through the hanger; and conveying the setting tool and hanger into the well on a generally tubular work string while no portion of the hanger extends longitudinally between the expansion cone and the work string. A setting tool includes an expansion cone, which is displaceable through the liner hanger to expand the hanger; at least one piston positioned on one side of the expansion cone; and an anchoring device for releasably securing the setting tool to the liner hanger, the anchoring device being positioned on an opposite side of the expansion cone. The expansion cone is pressure balanced between its two sides when the expansion cone is displaced through the liner hanger.
US08627880B2 Exhaust gas cooler
The present invention relates to an exhaust gas cooler (1), in particular for an exhaust gas recirculation system of an internal combustion engine, preferably of a motor vehicle, comprising an exhaust gas inlet (2) which is connected in a communicating manner with an inlet chamber (4), an exhaust gas outlet (3) which is connected in a communicating manner with an outlet chamber (5), a plurality of exhaust gas pipes (7) which are configured as flat pipes, extend parallel to each other through a coolant chamber (8) and are connected in a communicating manner on one side to the inlet chamber (4) and on the other side to the outlet chamber (5), a coolant inlet (9) which is connected in a communicating manner to the coolant chamber (8), and a coolant outlet (10) which is connected in a communicating manner to the coolant chamber (8). The exhaust gas pipes (7) have on mutually opposite sides (28) a plurality of outwardly projecting protrusions (29) which are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (30) of the exhaust gas pipes (7).A simplified cooling effect can be achieved if, with in each case two adjacent exhaust gas pipes (7), the protrusions (29) of one exhaust gas pipe (7) bear in each case directly against the other exhaust gas pipe (7) at a distance in the longitudinal direction (30) of the exhaust gas pipes (7) from the nearest protrusion (29) of the other exhaust gas pipe (7).
US08627877B2 Core or foundry sand coated and/or mixed with water glass with a water content in the range of ≧ approximately 0.25% by weight to approximately 0.9% by weight
A core or foundry sand that can be used for the production of cores and casting molds for the casting of molten metals includes a basic molding material, a layer of an adhesive agent coating the basic molding material, and a layer of water glass lying over the adhesive agent layer. The core or foundry sand has a water content in the range of ≦ approximately 0.25% by weight to approximately 0.9% by weight in relation to the overall weight of the core or foundry sand.
US08627875B1 Freight car yoke molding apparatus and method
This invention teaches an improved apparatus and method to make metal alloy castings, such as freight car yokes. One embodiment of the invention comprises a core mold assembly unit, wherein the mold unit is filled with molten metal. The core mold assembly units may be further formed of the same material, such as phenolic urethane impregnated sand, which is used to accurately replicate the desired shape of a final desired product.
US08627874B2 Mould for metal casting and method using same
A mold for casting metal which allows solid impurities to be removed from the molten metal. The mold (50) has a cavity therein, said cavity having a casting portion and contiguous therewith a running system upstream of the casting portion, said running system comprising an upstream inlet portion (58), a downstream outlet portion (60) and a swirl chamber (54) disposed between the inlet and outlet portions (58, 60), wherein a filter (62) is provided at an interface between the swirl chamber (54) and the outlet portion (60). The application also relates to a method for preparing the mold, a pattern for preparing the mold, a housing for use in the mold and a method for casting employing the mold.
US08627869B1 Melt bonding device for sealing belt-shaped sheet
Stoppers for preventing lifting of the worked sheet are comprised of two stoppers near the press and above the worked sheet at a predetermined space from the worked sheet, one of the stoppers arranged at an upstream side from the press and the other of the stoppers arranged at a downstream side from the press, whereby when the press seals the worked sheet and then moves upward, the preventive stoppers prevent the worked sheet from being lifted up.
US08627865B2 Device for preventing slipping of vehicle
A device for preventing slipping of a vehicle which includes spikes which are inserted between tires of a double wheel, a connection member which couples the spikes to each other, and a fastener which is provided on opposite ends of the connection member. The fastener includes a catch which is connected to a first end of the connection member, and a clamp which is connected to a second end of the connection member, and to which the catch is locked. When the catch is locked to the clamp to attach the device to the tires, the catch is disposed inside the connection member in a space between the tires, thus preventing the catch from coming into contact with a road surface when the vehicle travels.
US08627860B2 Fuel coupler with wireless port door unlatching actuator
A fuel delivery system and method of use are provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access.
US08627857B2 Device for sealing and inflating inflatable object
A sealing and inflating assembly includes an air compressor device engaged in a receptacle for generating a pressurized air, and a tire repairing container for receiving a sealing preparation, an outlet piece attached to a mouth opening of the tire repairing container and having an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit, a pipe is disposed in the container and includes one end coupled to the outlet piece and includes a bore for directing the pressurized air to flow through the bore of the pipe and to flow into a base portion of the container without flowing through the sealing preparation, for allowing the tire sealing preparation to be effectively supplied to seal and inflate the inflatable objects.
US08627849B2 Valve having two opposing self-sealing poppets
A valve having two opposing self-sealing poppets includes a valve body, two poppets, a diaphragm and two levers. The valve body has two passages opposite to each other and two poppet seats disposed opposite to each other and corresponding to the passages. When the valve is in a closed state, both poppets are pressed against the poppet seats and the media is prevented from flowing in either direction. When the valve is in an open state, both poppets axially move away from the poppet seats and the media can flow in either direction.
US08627847B2 Backflow preventer valve
An insertable backflow preventer is presented. The backflow preventer is provided with a cylindrical housing. The housing has a flow transition zone, a proximal orifice/ball seat, a ball with a specific weight that equals or is close to the specific weight of the surrounding fluid, and a distal retaining screen. The housing can have a flange provided on the outside of the housing at one end to facilitate securing the valve in a pipe. The valve is self-cleaning, can be placed in any orientation in a pipe and has low hydraulic head-loss. The valve's unique cost-effective design provides for easy and relative quick installation, eliminates the need to reconfigure existing plumbing, and can be performance tested remotely. Properly installed, it can dramatically improve the security of, for example, potable water sources in a building or other context, and inasmuch as when installed it is not visible, it is tamper proof. The valve can be scaled to any size pipe or tube, and due to its internal flow dynamics is self cleaning. Multiple valves can be installed in series, and balls of varying specific weight can be used in each valve in such a series to allow for contexts where a range of fluids are sent through the same line, or to provide fail-safe operation in the event that contaminants change the specific gravity of the fluid.
US08627836B2 Method and system for removal of contaminates from phaseshift photomasks
A system and method to clean the pellicle frame and adhesive ring of a photomask reticle are described. One embodiment includes a cover that isolates the photomasks from the pellicle frame. The reticle is secured between a spin chuck and the cover so that the photomasks are isolated and protected from solvents used in a cleaning process. With the reticle secured to the spin chuck, the spin chuck is rotated under a pressurized spray of solvent. The solvent, which is caustic to the photomasks, removes the contaminants from the adhesive ring. After the exposed areas are cleaned, the cover is removed and foreign material from photomasks are removed using less invasive solvents and methods.
US08627821B2 Method and device for decreasing contamination
Methods and devices to determine rate of particle production and the size range for the particles produced for an individual are described herein. The device (10) contains a mouthpiece (12), a filter (14), a low resistance one-way valve (16), a particle counter (20) and a computer (30). Optionally, the device also contains a gas flow meter (22). The data obtained using the device can be used to determine if a formulation for reducing particle exhalation should be administered to an individual.
US08627816B2 Medicament delivery device for administration of opioid antagonists including formulations for naloxone
Medicament delivery devices for administration of opioid antagonists are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing, a medicament container disposed within the housing and an energy storage member disposed within the housing. The medicament container is filled with a naloxone composition that includes naloxone or salts thereof, a tonicity-adjusting agent, and a pH adjusting agent, whereby the osmolality of the naloxone composition ranges from about 250-350 mOsm and the pH ranges from about 3-5. The energy storage member is configured to produce a force to deliver the naloxone composition.
US08627810B2 Archery bow
An archery bow comprises a structural riser that comprises a plurality of cells arranged in a repeating pattern. In some embodiments, the riser comprises multiple pluralities of similarly shaped cells, wherein each plurality comprises a different shape. In some embodiments, a bow comprises one or more rotatable members. Each rotatable member can comprise a plurality of cells arranged in a repeating pattern. In some embodiments, cell shapes in the rotatable member(s) are similar to cell shapes in the riser.
US08627803B2 Variable displacement engine assembly including partial boost arrangement
An engine assembly may include an engine structure, a first intake valve, a first valve lift mechanism, a second intake valve, a second valve lift mechanism, and a boost mechanism. The first intake valve may be located in a first intake port and the first valve lift mechanism may be engaged with the first intake valve. The second intake valve may be located in a second intake port and the second valve lift mechanism may be engaged with the second intake valve and operable in first and second modes. The second intake valve may be displaced to an open position during the first mode and may be maintained in a closed position during the second mode. The boost mechanism may be in communication with an air source and the first intake port and isolated from the second intake port.
US08627796B2 Pivot foot for deactivating rocker arm
A dual body rocker arm comprising an outer arm, an inner arm, a substantially cylindrical pivot axle, a pivot foot and a first and second pivot foot retaining ring. The inner arm is disposed between side arms of the outer arm. The pivot axle is mounted to both the inner and outer arm. The pivot foot has a cylindrical axle interfacing surface and a valve tip interface. Retaining rings mount the pivot foot to the axle, allowing partial rotation of the pivot foot about the axle. Interfering protrusions on the retaining rings limit the range of motion of the pivot foot. A pivot foot having at least one interfering block is configured to restrict motion of the pivot foot by interfering with at least one interfering tab.
US08627785B2 Mouthpiece-vented teat cup inflation
A teat cup inflation comprises a mouthpiece having a vent for the limited admission of ambient air into the inflation barrel above the lower tip of the teat. One or more airflow passages are formed by the configuration of the barrel and extend along the length of the barrel to vent air from mouthpiece to the short milk tube. The one or more airflow passage can be formed between the sides of barrels that are multisided in cross-section.
US08627781B2 Coating die and coating apparatus comprising the same
Disclosed is a coating die which can recover a coating solution to be wasted in a good manner, while suppressing adhesion of foreign matter onto an object to be coated. A coating apparatus comprising the coating die is also disclosed. Specifically disclosed is a coating die (30) for coating a web (2) with a paste (3), which comprises a main body (31) having a discharge opening (31e) for discharging the paste (3) upwardly, a recovery pan (32c) for recovering the paste (3) flowing out from the discharge opening (31e), and flow passage (grooves (32a, 32a) and shoots (32b, 32b)) which are integrally formed with the main body (31) for the purpose of guiding the paste (3) from the discharge opening (31e) to the recovery pan (32c).
US08627778B2 Elevated dock
An elevated dock designed to lift boats out of the water when not in use is provided because storing a boat in the water exposes the boat to contaminants in both fresh and salt water. These contaminants attach to the bottom of the boat severely impeding the performance of the boat. Cleaning these contaminants off of the boat is time consuming and costly. Repeated cleaning of the boat will eventually result in damage to the hull. The elevated dock uses polymer to form adjustable pontoons that can easily be fitted to a variety of sizes and styles of boats. An embodiment of the elevated dock uses an articulated set of pontoons for lifting sailboats. The elevated dock can be deployed completely independent of the dock, eliminating unwanted stress to the dock. The unique gusset design, free-floating feature, articulated pontoon option coupled with the unique manner in which the pontoon length, width and volume can be adjusted for various boat types and sizes.
US08627772B2 Intermodal rail vehicle to form a train
The improved intermodal vehicle has a one-piece upper frame assembly with a horizontal load carrying surface below the ends of a drawbar for connecting the trailers. Each highway trailer has a coupler socket assembly at both its front and rear into which the drawbar enters and connects to the intermodal vehicle by a vertical coupling pin projecting upward from the horizontal load carrying surface. The coupling pin is operated up and down by either manual or air operated actuators, and locks in the up position by a manually operated safety latch. The upper frame is supported from dual steerable lower frames by primary air springs so that when the springs are deflated, the upper frame is lowered to allow the trailers to be pushed upon the load carrying surface. When the air springs are inflated, the trailers are raised so that the trailer wheels are carried above the railroad track.
US08627770B2 Cartridge assembly having an integrated retention system
A cartridge assembly for large bore gun systems having an integrated retention assembly for maintaining propellant charges within the cartridge case. The cartridge case having an interior space for receiving propellant charges and an open proximate end through which the propellant charges can be fed. An insulating sleeve defining an interior channel is affixed to the cartridge case and extends out of the proximate end of the cartridge case. The interior channel serves as a chute through which propellant charges can be fed. After the propellant charges are loaded, the insulating sleeve is crimped closed to retain the propellant charges within the cartridge case. A closure plug can be inserted into the proximate end of the cartridge case after the insulating sleeve is crimped closed.
US08627756B1 Non-metallic armor article and method of manufacture
A non-metallic armor article comprises a pultruded housing defining at least one cavity. A plurality of substantially dry ballistic impact resistant broad goods sheets are at least partially enclosed in the cavity and held in suspension independently within the cavity. The pultruded housing is engaged with the plurality of substantially dry ballistic impact resistant broad goods sheets by being secured to one or more of the plurality of substantially dry ballistic impact resistant broad goods sheets.
US08627755B1 Muzzle brake
A muzzle brake/compensator for attachment to the barrel of a firearm incorporates an expansion chamber for receiving expanding gases following a projectile exiting from the barrel of the firearm. The expanding gases in the expansion chamber are directed to strategically positioned ports in the periphery of the muzzle brake which directs the escaping expanding gases radially outwardly from the centerline of the firearm bore and inclined toward the firearm/shooter. The expansion chamber is provided with a baffle surface extending from the interior surface of a bore extension or wiper section to the port entrances of the respective ports. The angle of the baffle surface with respect to the bore centerline is limited to a range within which significant reduction in recoil force is achieved.
US08627741B2 Process turning disc, a robot arm comprising a process turning disc, a robot and a use of a process turning disc
A process turning disc connectable to an output shaft of a motor configured to rotate the process turning disc about a first center axis of the process turning disc. The process turning disc being configured to guide a cable or hose. A first flange is connectable to an end part of a robot arm. A second flange is connectable to a tool element. The flanges are spaced apart from each other by an intermediate connecting member. The connecting member is connected to the flanges. The connecting member provides a passage between the flanges. The passage is configured to receive and guide the cable/hose. The passage has an inlet side for the cable/hose and an outlet side for the cable/hose. A robot arm including the process turning disc, a robot including the robot arm and a method that utilizes the process turning disc.
US08627737B2 Spur gear final drive with integrated brakes
A final drive gearbox is described. The final drive gearbox is a double reduction gearbox for off-road machines, which, unlike currently available double reduction gearboxes, contains no planetary gear sets. The final drive gearbox contains spur gears having pockets adapted to contain brake disc packs. The pockets may permit utilization of a plurality of brake packs within the gearbox without requiring additional space or enlargement of the gearbox housing. Use of spur gears may thus enable use of fewer gear parts, while use of multiple brake packs may enhance final drive brake capacity, improve longevity of the brake packs, and lengthen brake servicing cycles.
US08627735B2 Transmission shift device
A transmission shift device is provided that includes, but is not limited to a shifting shaft, which is mounted so it is axially immovable and rotatable in a transmission shift housing and is mechanically connected to a shift lever. Furthermore, the transmission shift device includes, but is not limited to a selector lever, which is mounted so it is axially displaceable on the shifting shaft and is mechanically connected to a selector lever. The selector lever is held in a spring-elastic manner in a middle axial selection position on the shifting shaft by at least one spring element.
US08627721B2 Accelerometer based on the measurement of Casimir force fluctuations
An accelerometer based on the measurement of Casimir force fluctuations is described. The accelerometer comprises a sealed housing containing a vacuum or a liquid, a piezoelectric plate fixed with the sealed housing, and a mass moveable within the sealed housing located in proximity to the piezoelectric plate. The moveable mass and the piezoelectric plate each have conductive surfaces which are located from each other at a distance which creates a Casimir Effect between the movable mass and the piezoelectric plate. Fluctuations in acceleration of the moveable mass cause fluctuations in the Casimir force on the piezoelectric plate. The acceleration fluctuations cause fluctuations in an electric output of the piezoelectric plate. The fluctuations in electric output are measured and used to calculate an acceleration and direction of movement of the accelerometer or a host device in which the accelerometer is carried.
US08627718B2 Sensor arrangement for determining a tank fill level, and method for producing it
The invention relates to a sensor arrangement for determining a tank fill level of a liquid, especially a reducing agent for removing nitrogen from the exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine, which liquid is contained in a tank, at least two electrically conductive measuring electrodes being at least partially embedded in a carrier that is produced of an electrically non-conductive material. The sensor arrangement includes a temperature sensor, especially a resistor with negative temperature coefficient being used as a temperature sensor, which is integrated into the carrier.
US08627714B2 Method for preventing the rupture of a compressor wheel and/or turbine wheel of an exhaust-gas turbocharger
A method for preventing the rupture of a compressor wheel and/or turbine wheel of an exhaust-gas turbocharger of a motor vehicle includes establishing loading limit values (n(G)) for the compressor wheel and/or the turbine wheel in bench tests. The method further includes determining loading variables (n) for the compressor wheel and/or turbine wheel during the operation of the exhaust-gas turbocharger in the motor vehicle. In addition, the method includes processing the determined loading variables (n) in order to establish a loading characteristic value (n(i)) which represents real exhaust-gas turbocharger operation. Further, the method includes comparing the loading limit value (n(G)) with the loading characteristic value (n(i)). The method also includes outputting a warning (W) if the comparison of the loading limit value (n(G)) with the loading characteristic value (n(i)) yields an exceedance of a predefinable safety margin.
US08627704B2 Forming a control line protector by metal pressing operation
An apparatus and method is provided for protecting control lines used with tool strings in a downhole environment. A control line protector assembly comprises a plurality of components formed into a unitary piece which includes a guard section having a first end section and a second end section, a slot on each of the first end section and the second end section, and a securing mechanism for coupling the guard section having the first end section and the second end section to the coupling. A control line protector assembly is formed using a metal stamping process.
US08627696B2 Method and device for manufacturing a cable comprising two layers of the in situ compound type
Method of manufacturing a metal cable having two layers (Ci, Ce) of construction M+N, comprising an inner layer (Ci) having M wires of diameter d1 wound together in a helix at a pitch p1, M varying from 2 to 4, and an outer layer (Ce) of N wires of diameter d2, wound together in a helix at a pitch p2 around the inner layer (Ci), the method comprising the following steps performed in line: a step of assembling the M core wires by twisting to form the inner layer (Ci) at a point of assembling; downstream of the point of assembling of the M core wires, a step of sheathing the inner layer (Ci) with a diene rubber composition called “filling rubber”, in the raw state; a step of assembling the N wires of the outer layer (Ce) by twisting around the inner layer (Ci) thus sheathed; and a step of twist balancing. Also disclosed is a device for implementing such a method.
US08627691B2 Rotating tub body and drum-type washing machine having the same
A cylindrical rotating tub body and a drum-type washing machine having the same, in which the rotating tub body is formed by rolling a plate such that both ends of the plate are connected to each other. The washing machine includes a cylindrical rotating tub body and a plurality of lifters, which are spaced apart from each other on an inner peripheral surface of the rotating tub body. The rotating tub body includes lifter installation sections on which a plurality of lifters are installed, concave-convex sections having a plurality of concave-convex parts and being installed between the lifter installation sections, and reinforcement sections to reinforce the strength of the lifter installation sections. The lifter installation sections having a strength lower than that of the concave-convex sections are reinforced due to the reinforcement sections, so that the lifter installation sections are prevented from being extremely being deformed during the rolling process.
US08627690B2 Washing machine
A washing machine capable of reducing the manufacturing cost of a circulation device installed to circulate water and capable of preventing water from being scattered when spraying circulating water into a spin basket is described. A tub cover of the washing machine includes a guide part provided with a connector, which is integrated with the tub cover, connected with a circulation passage, and inclined upward toward the tub cover, and an inclined surface inclined toward the spin basket at an inner edge of the tub cover, thereby reducing the manufacturing of the circulation device and preventing water from being scattered. The washing machine includes a circulation drain port formed at a side surface of a tub and a filtering duct connected with the circulation drain port, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the circulation device.
US08627678B2 Refrigerator
Provided is a refrigerator that includes a cabinet and a refrigerator door. The cabinet defining a storage compartment. The refrigerator door opens and closes the storage compartment. The refrigerator door includes a door liner defining an ice compartment, an ice compartment door opening and closing the ice compartment, and a handle provided to the ice compartment door. The ice compartment door includes a dike protruding from the ice compartment door. The handle and the dike are disposed on an identical line.
US08627668B2 System for fuel and diluent control
According to various embodiments, a system includes a fuel controller configured to control a fuel transition between a first flow of a first fuel and a second flow of a second fuel into a fuel nozzle of a combustion system. The fuel controller is configured to adjust a third flow of a diluent in combination with the second flow of the second fuel to maintain a pressure ratio across the fuel nozzle above a predetermined operating pressure ratio.
US08627665B2 Installation and method for storing and returning electrical energy
An installation for storing and returning electrical energy having first and second enclosures containing a gas and porous refractory materials suitable for transferring heat by contact between said porous refractory materials and a gas flowing through said enclosures, and a compressor and an expander for the gas flowing in pipes between each of the ends of an enclosure connected to an end of the other enclosure. Methods are also disclosed for storing electrical energy in the form of heat energy in which an installation of the invention is used, and for a method of returning electrical energy from heat energy stored by a method according to the invention. The electrical energy is stored in the form of heat within masses of refractory material, and the stored thermal potential energy is returned in the form of electrical energy.
US08627655B2 Method and device for producing ammonia for the exhaust gas treatment in internal combustion engines in a motor vehicle
A method for producing ammonia for treating exhaust gas in internal combustion engines in a motor vehicle proposes that the internal combustion engine is operated with an air/fuel ratio λ<1.0, and water is added to the air/fuel mixture supplied to the internal combustion engine in order to produce the ammonia required for treating the exhaust gas on board the vehicle. And in a device for implementing the method with a means for determining the air/fuel ratio λ of the air/fuel mixture supplied to the internal combustion engine, it is proposed that an addition means for adding water to the air/fuel mixture be provided in order to produce the ammonia required for exhaust gas treatment on board the motor vehicle, the addition means being controllable depending on the determined air/fuel ratio λ.
US08627653B2 Exhaust purification apparatus
An exhaust purification apparatus which comprises: a first processing unit for removing particulate matter; a second processing unit for reducing nitrogen oxide; a communication pipe for guiding exhaust from an exhaust outlet of the first processing unit to an exhaust inlet of the second processing unit; and a reducing agent supply unit on the communication pipe. The first and second processing units are arranged in parallel such that the exhaust outlet and the exhaust inlet are on the sides facing each other. The communication pipe is arranged between the first and second processing units where the processing units are closest to each other such that the upstream part of the communication pipe extends from the exhaust outlet along the outer circumferential surface of the first processing unit and the downstream part of the communication pipe extends along the outer circumferential surface of the second processing unit to the exhaust inlet.
US08627636B2 Method of constructing liquefied gas storage tank on land
The present disclosure relates to a method of constructing a liquefied gas storage tank on land, which enables rapid and easy construction of walls of a cylindrical storage tank by stacking a plurality of pre-produced unit-wall structures to be stacked or superposed with respect to one another. The method includes: producing unit-wall structures made of concrete and each having iron rods arranged lengthwise and breadthwise therein, stacking the unit-wall structures in a cylindrical arrangement, and connecting the unit-wall structures adjacent and in longitudinal and lateral directions with respect to each other to form a wall of the storage tank.
US08627632B2 Node, apparatus, system and method regarding a frame support for solar mirrors
A node for a solar frame including an elongate portion having a channel extending through it in which a structural element is disposed or a solid elongate portion on to which a structural element is disposed. The node comprises a fin extending radially outward from the elongate portion where at least 5% of the volume of the fin is replaced by at least a single void extending essentially in parallel with the channel or the extrusion direction of the solid elongate portion. An apparatus for transmitting torque in a solar frame having structural elements and a support. A system for solar mirrors. A node for a solar frame. A method for connecting a structural element with a strut having a strut end piece of a solar mirror support frame. A method for producing a node for solar mirror frame.
US08627629B2 Assembly and method for a concrete wall
An assembly for constructing a concrete wall includes a first plurality of form panels defining a first wall plane, a second plurality of form panels defining a second wall plane and a first plurality of foam sheets. The first and second plurality of form panels are constructed of frames and webs. The webs are constructed of a web material. The first plurality of foam sheets define a first concrete interface plane. The first concrete interface plane is generally parallel to the first and second wall planes. The first plurality of foam sheets is secured to the first plurality of form panels by a screw. The first plurality of form panels, second plurality of form panels and first plurality of foam sheets are secured by a plurality of ties. The first concrete interface plane and the second wall plane define a wall cavity.
US08627627B2 Concrete casting elements
Concrete casting elements for forming an expansion joint in concrete including: a pair of expansion joint members each having a gasket mounting formation to which a gasket may be mounted in operative interposition between the expansion joint members for sealing the joint; a flange extending from a remaining portion along one side of the expansion joint member and retainer mounting means formed onto or into said remaining portion for mounting one or more retainer elements to protrude from the opposite side of the expansion joint member from the flange; the flanges of each one of the expansion joint members being formed to engage one with the other; the flange of one joint member at least partly overlying the flange of the other to provide an expansion joint upper face and such that the remaining portions may be spaced from one another when the flanges are so engaged; the flange of the other expansion joint including a lip formed to be substantially coplanar with the expansion joint upper face; and the flanges also being formed and positioned for protection of the gasket against damage.
US08627622B2 Drywall-trimming strip for trimming archway
A drywall-trimming strip for trimming an archway has a nose with a tabbed edge and a flanged edge. A first series of slits spaced from one another define a series of tabs spaced from one another along the tabbed edge. A flange extends from and along the flanged edge. The tabs are joined to the tabbed edge of the nose by a continuous juncture extending along and defining the tabbed edge of the nose, which has a second series of slits extending to the continuous juncture and spaced from one another, as the slits defining the tabs are spaced from one another. All parts of the drywall-trimming strip are made from a comparatively harder, less flexible, polymeric material, such as polyvinyl chloride having a hardness of Durometer Shore 82 D, except for the continuous juncture, which is made from a comparatively softer, more flexible material, such as polyvinyl chloride having a hardness of Durometer Shore 92 A.
US08627620B2 Modular construction system
The present invention provides a novel modular building system exhibiting superior strength to withstand seismic activity.
US08627611B2 Aisle enclosure system
An aisle enclosure system including ceiling bracket assemblies, ceiling panels, vertical blanking panels, aisle duct adaptors, and accessory rails, for use with equipment racks and ceiling structures in hot-aisle and cold-aisle data centers. The ceiling assemblies may be mounted to the tops of the racks or may be suspended from an area above the racks. The aisle enclosure system further includes a moveable structure that is configured and adapted to position a ceiling panel in an closed position when the moveable structure is in a first position, and position the ceiling panel in an open position when the moveable structure is in a second position, where the moveable structure is configured and adapted to move from the first position to a second position in response to an alarm condition.
US08627601B2 Rotating radiation shielded entrance assembly
A rotating entrance assembly is provided, the rotating entrance assembly including a rotating base, a motor in driving connection with the rotating base, and first and second shielding components that are arranged on the rotating base. A passageway is defined between the first and second shielding components.
US08627596B2 Vegetation treatment
A method is provided for inhibiting plant growth by inducing hypothermia by applying a treating substance to summer annual weeds and grasses. Susceptible undesirable plants will be killed by this treatment, while non-susceptible desirable plants will not be adversely affected by this treatment. Compressed carbon dioxide may be applied to other summer grasses to cause the grasses to become dormant. An apparatus is provided for inducing hypothermia in undesirable plants by applying a treating substance. A canister capable of housing gas may be provided. A valve may be provided to control the amount and pressure of gas dispensed from the canister.
US08627592B2 Telescopable strut for turkey decoy
A turkey decoy comprises a mass-producable synthetic resinous body adapted to be deployed in either a sentry or feeding position, with a telescopable assembly of rigid, that is, essentially inflexible, upper and lower struts, the upper necessarily being tubular, and the lower being either tubular or solid. The upper strut is removably securely fixed in an aperture in the upper surface of the decoy's body. Typically, the strut assembly is pre-assembled in the decoy so that neither strut in the assembly is detachable relative to the other. The strut assembly of non-detachably assembled struts, which assembly is secured in the decoy long before the decoy is to be deployed, allows a hunter to transport the pre-assembled decoy to the desired site in the poor light of the pre-dawn hours, unfold the decoy, pull the inner strut out until it locks in the outer strut, and thrust the pointed end into the ground. There is no assembly of the strut on site, no searching for the desired aperture in the dark.
US08627590B1 Frame assembly
Disclosed is a frame assembly including a framing member and an extrusion member. The frame assembly further includes a sheet having a graphic thereon. The sheet includes a gasket at a perimeter thereof, and the gasket is positioned in a channel of the extrusion member such that the channel supports the sheet.
US08627586B2 Illuminated trim panels
A vehicle trim panel is illuminated from behind to create an illuminated design (e.g., logo and/or lettering) includes a transparent layer and an opaque layer with an opening(s) in the shape of the design. An opaque or partially opaque design piece may be placed over the opening(s) in the opaque layer and be lit around its edges. The vehicle trim panel may be formed by forming a panel with a transparent layer and an opaque layer. An opening in the opaque layer may be formed by removing opaque material (e.g., by machining or laser etching) or by masking (the mask is placed between the opaque layer and transparent layer and removed taking a portion of the opaque layer with it). A design piece may be placed over the location of the opening in the opaque layer.
US08627581B2 Heat delivery system for a fabric care appliance
A drying machine includes a housing; a drying compartment assembly including a drum having a drum pressure; a guide apparatus for guiding air in a path; an air moving apparatus for moving air through the guide apparatus; a heating apparatus for heating air moving through the guide apparatus; power means for providing power to components of the dryer including at least the drying compartment assembly, guide apparatus, air moving apparatus, heating apparatus, and control apparatus; a control apparatus for controlling at least one of the drying compartment assembly, the guide apparatus, the air moving apparatus, the heating apparatus, the power means; and, restrictor means for restricting the air flow rate through the guide apparatus entering the drum whereby the drum pressure is more than trivially lower than ambient air pressure.
US08627570B2 Roller thrust bearing cage and manufacturing method thereof
A manufacturing method of a roller bearing cage, including a cage main body formed with an annular plate, and a plurality of cage pockets opened along a circumferential direction on the cage main body for retaining rollers having flat end faces, includes punching an annular plate from a metal, forming a plurality of cage pockets on the annular plate, and pressing an edge of one of the cage pockets in a thickness direction of the annular plate on a side face of the one of the cage pockets with a press jig having a pressing face of a predetermined shape to form a chamfered portion.
US08627569B2 Radial joint and process for manufacturing such a radial joint for a motor vehicle
A radial joint with a metallic housing (1), through the opening (2) on one side of which a ball pivot (3) can be inserted into an interior space (4) of the housing (1). The housing (1) has, in the area of its opening (2), a section (7), which is prepared by machining and which is deformed by a cold forming process. A process for manufacturing a radial joint includes: manufacturing the housing blank, machining of section (7) close to the opening (2) of housing (1), inserting the joint ball (5) of ball pivot (3) into the interior space (4) of housing (1), cold forming of the opening-side edge section of housing (1) until a metallic overlap (13) is attained between the joint ball (5) and housing (1).
US08627553B2 Fastening clip
A fastening clip for fastening a component to a carrier, has a holding member, the holding member being adapted to be inserted into an opening of the carrier in an insertion direction and the holding member includes a plurality of expansion arms adapted to engage behind the opening of the carrier, and an expansion member adapted to be inserted into a recess of the holding member contrary to the insertion direction so that the expansion arms are transferred from an initial position to an expanded position, wherein the holding member and the expansion member are integrally connected with each other in a preassembly position by connecting webs which each constitute a predetermined breaking point and which are provided in particular between the front end of the holding member viewed in the insertion direction and the rear end of the expansion member viewed in the insertion direction.
US08627545B2 Vacuum cleaner with enhanced maneuverability
An upright vacuum cleaner has a body including a nozzle assembly and a handle assembly. A suction generator and dirt collection vessel are carried on the body. A dual pivot connector connects the handle assembly with the nozzle assembly. The connector provides a first pivotal connection between the connector and the nozzle assembly and a second pivotal connection between the connector and the handle assembly. In addition a tilt handle assembly is connected to the body by a third pivotal connection.
US08627535B2 Five brush rollover with overhead support
A gantryless brush-type rollover car washer has an overhead support system for a longitudinally movable carriage. Four side brushes are pivotally mounted to the carriage and arranged in front and rear pairs, each of which can converge and diverge to cover all surfaces of a vehicle in a car washing location. A counterweighted pivotal top brush is also provided and mounted on the carriage. Opposite depending wheel washers are also provided. The pivot points for all five of the brushes are above the eye level of persons in a passenger vehicle being washed.
US08627534B2 Cleaning feature for electric charging connector
A contamination cleaner for a socket of a charging connector used with a charging station for an electric vehicle wherein the charging connector mates to a charging coupler of the electric vehicle during charging includes a housing mechanically configured generally similarly to the charging coupler enabling the housing to mechanically mate to the charging connector; and a cleaning contact, coupled to the housing and complementary to the socket, for engaging the socket and removing surface contaminants from the socket whenever the housing mechanically mates to the charging connector.
US08627529B1 Centralized air supply loading dock leveling system
A central pressurized air supply selectively couples pressurized air to one or more dock levelers to pivot a hinged ramp of a dock leveler. Each dock leveler includes an inflatable member to which the pressurized air is selectively coupled, and the inflatable member is arranged to pivot about the hinged ramp of a respective dock leveler. A control system allows continued operation of the system during adverse conditions.
US08627526B2 Method for determining a characteristic of a consumable
The embodiments of the invention relate to a method for determining at least one characteristic of a physical resource for use in a physical resource consuming apparatus.
US08627525B2 Method for the control of a spinning cycle of a washing machine and a washing machine suitable for performing said method
A method for controlling a spinning cycle of a washing machine, the method includes accelerating a drum up to a first speed at which the laundry items essentially lie firmly against the wall of the drum, detecting a movement of the detergent solution tub in at least one direction for at least one predetermined period during the rotation of the drum at a speed that is equal to or greater than the first speed, determining an amplitude of the movement for the recorded direction, determining further movement amplitudes for known or detected speeds during the predetermined period, determining a change in the movement amplitude over the speed, and controlling the spinning cycle as a function of the change of the movement amplitude.
US08627521B2 Bed sheet attachment system and methods
The present invention provides a bed sheet attachment system that allows a user to quickly and easily change bed sheets. In one embodiment, the fitted sheet of a bed comprises an upper surface and at least one attachment member disposed on the upper surface. A quick-change sheet having upper and lower surfaces also is provided, wherein at least one attachment member is disposed on the lower surface of the quick-change sheet. In use, the attachment member of the quick-change sheet is configured to releasably mate with the attachment member of the fitted sheet, thereby facilitating the changing of the quick-change sheet. Further, at least one pocket member may be releasably coupled to the fitted sheet, to thereby providing one or more storage locations in close proximity to the bed.