Document Document Title
US09279903B2 Apparatus for measuring bending on a drill bit operating in a well
An apparatus for measuring the bending on a drill bit operating down hole in a well may comprise at least three pockets circumferentially spaced equidistantly around the drill collar of the drill string to which the drill bit is attached. Four strain gauges are equidistantly circumferentially spaced around each of the pockets so as to form first and second sets of strain gauges. The strain gauges in the first set are connected into one Wheatstone bridge while the gauges in the second set are connected in a second bridge. Each of the strain gauges that are oriented similarly within each of the pockets are connected in series within a single leg of a bridge so that the output voltage of the bridge is unaffected by bending in the drill string. The output of first bridge is used to determine the bending on the drill bit. Further, an apparatus for measuring the bending, weight, and torque on a drill bit operating down hole in a well may comprise at least three pockets circumferentially spaced equidistantly around the drill collar of the drill string to which the drill bit is attached with twelve strain gauges that are equidistantly circumferentially spaced around each of the pockets so as to form first and second sets of strain gauges. The arrangement of the twelve strain gauges allow for a bending on bit measurement that cancels out the affects of the weight on bit and torque on bit.
US09279898B2 Methods and systems for correction of streamer-depth bias in marine seismic surveys
Computational systems and methods to be carried out by the computational systems for determining streamer-depth bias during exploration-seismology experiments are disclosed. An exploration-seismology vessel tows a number of streamers that form a smoothly varying data acquisition surface located beneath a fluid surface. In one aspect of this disclosure, the method determines a set of image points that represent a profile of the fluid surface above each streamer. The image points are determined based on pressure and velocity wavefields measured at dual sensors of the streamer. The method then determines an elevation parameter of the image points that minimizes DC offset in a spectral domain of the image points. The elevation parameter corresponds to the streamer-depth bias and can be used to correct for the streamer-depth bias in subsequent calculations of a fluid-surface profile.
US09279897B2 Locating oil or gas passively by observing a porous oil and gas saturated system giving off its characteristic resonance response to ambient background noise, including optional differentiation of oil, locatinggas and water
This patent deals with methods to extract and analyze seismic signals due to resonance phenomena in an enclosed oil, gas, or water reservoir, which are passively excited by seismic background noise, locating thereby the presence of the reservoir by doing qualitative and quantitative estimates via forward modeling. Measurements are first used in a qualitative analysis in eight steps. The influence of gas bubbles is important. A quantitative method in form of a numerical simulation using one of several specific physical concepts is used for further analysis. By using successive forward modeling, together with investigation and feedback and in conjunction with the Monte Carlo method, more details are gained. It is also possible to determine the fluid type. The uniqueness of the methods is first that it is purely passive; second it is directly sensitive to the oil or gas, because the resonance effect is only present for a fluid.
US09279896B2 Reciprocal method two-way wave equation targeted data selection for improved imaging of complex geologic structures
The invention relates to seismic imaging where complex geologies are likely to create data that is confusing or ambiguous for a conventional matrix of acquisition source points and receiver locations. With some understanding of the geological substructure, the acquisition source points and receiver locations that optimize the imaging may be found by using a reciprocal two-way wave equation propagation method coupled with a quality geologic model. With this, the acquisition source points and receiver locations that optimize the imaging may be selected and used to better resolve the substructure and avoid the inclusion of data that obscures understanding of the substructure.
US09279894B2 Systems and methods for neutron detection using scintillator nano-materials
In one embodiment, a neutron detector includes a three dimensional matrix, having nanocomposite materials and a substantially transparent film material for suspending the nanocomposite materials, a detector coupled to the three dimensional matrix adapted for detecting a change in the nanocomposite materials, and an analyzer coupled to the detector adapted for analyzing the change detected by the detector. In another embodiment, a method for detecting neutrons includes receiving radiation from a source, converting neutrons in the radiation into alpha particles using converter material, converting the alpha particles into photons using quantum dot emitters, detecting the photons, and analyzing the photons to determine neutrons in the radiation.
US09279888B2 System for online/offline singles-pairing with keeping/rejecting multi-coincidences for positron emission tomography
A method of processing, by a processor of a computer, positron emission tomography (PET) information obtained from a PET detector, including the steps of obtaining a singles event list that includes a plurality of single event entries, each entry corresponding to a single event detected by the PET detector and including a timestamp, energy information, and crystal position information; and determining, based on the timestamp and the crystal position information of each entry and a predetermined coincidence time period, all event pairs within the plurality of single event entries, each event pair consisting of two single events whose respective timestamps differ by less than the predetermined coincidence time period, wherein the determining step determines that an event pair exists when at least two, but no more than k, single events are found within a given time window, wherein k is an integer value greater than or equal to two.
US09279879B2 Positioning in the presence of passive distributed elements
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate transmitting positioning reference signals (PRS) differently for passive distributed elements. PRSs for passive distributed elements can be transmitted over disparate resources than those utilized for PRSs at a related access point, using different symbol sequences, and/or the like. In this regard, wireless devices can differentiate between PRSs from access points and those from passive distributed elements, which can mitigate confusion for processes involving such RSs, such as position determining. Alternatively, passive distributed elements can refrain from transmitting PRSs, and a corresponding access point can indicate to wireless devices to only determine positioning based on PRSs. Thus, the wireless devices can utilize the PRSs transmitted from the access point (and not other reference signals transmitted from the passive distributed element) to determine a position.
US09279874B2 Signal processing for a capacitive sensor system with robustness to noise
A capacitive sensor includes a transmit electrode configured to provide an alternating electric field to a sensor; one or more receive electrodes for detecting variations in the alternating electric field; and an adaptive frequency adjustment unit configured to adjust an operating frequency of the alternating electric field responsive to detection of a noise measure, such as noise power.
US09279866B2 Magnetic sensor
A magnet is disposed on one face of a hollow section which is the conveyance path of an object of detection, and has a magnetic pole of designated length along the conveyance direction of the object of detection. A magnetic body is disposed along the conveyance direction opposite the magnet with the hollow section therebetween, and generates a cross magnetic field that crosses the hollow section formed between the magnetic body and the magnet. An anisotropic magnetoresistance element is disposed on the side of the magnetic body carrier facing the hollow section, and has magneto-sensing action in the conveyance direction.
US09279863B2 High-temperature superconducting magnetic sensor
A high-temperature superconducting magnetic sensor having superconducting layers formed on a substrate, a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) being formed on the superconducting layers, the high-temperature superconducting magnetic sensor includes: a pickup coil that is formed on the superconducting layer and is connected to an inductor of the SQUID; and an input coil that is formed on the superconducting layer, is connected to the inductor of the SQUID and the pickup coil to form a closed loop, and is magnetically coupled with the inductor of the SQUID. In planar view, at least one turn of the input coil surrounds the inductor of the SQUID, or is surrounded by the inductor of the SQUID. The width of the superconductor forming the inductor of the SQUID is 10 μm or less.
US09279861B2 Apparatus for testing switching of power semiconductor module
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for testing switching of a power semiconductor module, including: a power semiconductor module including a plurality of power semiconductor devices corresponding to a plurality of phases to test a switching operation of a corresponding power semiconductor device; a power supply unit supplying power to the power semiconductor module; a relay switching unit including a plurality of relay switch devices that connects or disconnects between the power semiconductor module and the power supply unit according to a relay control signal; and a control unit controlling the relay switching unit to test on/off characteristics of at least one of the plurality of power semiconductor devices individually or simultaneously, By this configuration, the on/off operations of the plurality of power semiconductor devices are tested individually or simultaneously by the control of the plurality of relay switch devices, thereby improving the user convenience and reducing the test time.
US09279854B2 Mechanism for facilitating modular processing cell framework and application for asynchronous parallel singulated semiconductor device handling and testing
A mechanism is described for facilitating and employing a modular processing cell framework according to one embodiment. A method of embodiments may include accepting one or more semiconductor devices in one or more media at a modular processing cell framework (“framework”) including a plurality of test cells, moving the one or more semiconductor devices from the one or more media to one or more test cells for testing; and testing the one or more semiconductor devices.
US09279850B1 Physically unclonable functions with enhanced margin testing
Apparatus for identifying stable physically unclonable function (PUF) cells includes an array of PUF cells, a bias control circuit, and a selector circuit. The bias control circuit has a plurality of bias control lines that apply one or more bias control signals to each PUF cell in the array of PUF cells. The selector circuit selects a subset of the PUF cells in the array of PUF cells based on whether outputs of the PUF cells in the array of PUF cells change in response to application of the bias control signals. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
US09279842B2 Assembly and a method of determining a change in capacitance
An assembly and a method for determining a change in capacitance in a cable, such as a change caused by a deformation of the cable. The deformation may be caused by a deforming element attached to the cable and slideable along the cable. The deforming element may be adapted to be compressed by a user and convert the compression force into a compression of the cable so as to cause the capacitance change. The assembly may form part of a headset and the deformation may be used to control a media player or mobile telephone used with the headset.
US09279841B2 Integratable capacitive touch sensing circuit through charge sharing
An integratable capacitive touch sensing circuit through charge sharing is provided, including a charge sharing circuit, voltage-controlled oscillator, reference frequency generator, switch clock generator and frequency compare circuit; wherein charge sharing circuit further including a sensing capacitor, touch capacitor, share capacitor, charging switch, charge sharing switch and discharging switch, for sharing charge from charged sensing capacitor with discharged share capacitor through charge sharing to accumulate voltage on share capacitor. The capacitance of share capacitor is adjustable for applications generating different sensing capacitance. The charging switch, charge sharing switch and discharging switch are controlled by non-overlapping clocks. Prolonging close duration of charging switch and minimizing close duration of charge sharing switch and discharging switch can minimize interference from ambient noise. The charge sharing circuit finishes charge sharing in a clock cycle and voltage of share capacitor are linear to sensing capacitance and touch capacitance.
US09279838B2 System, method and apparatus for computing, monitoring, measuring, optimizing and allocating power and energy for a rod pumping system
A system and methods are provided for controlling a motor of a rod pumping system using previous RPMs of the motor and predicting an RPM of the motor; correcting a power factor of a motor of a rod pumping system; allocating energy consumption and allocating energy generation for a set of wells connected to an electricity meter using an amount of energy generated by each well; and generating an alert if a set of data is beyond a threshold for the set of data.
US09279837B2 Low noise reading architecture for active sensor arrays
A sensor apparatus includes an array of active sensor elements arranged in columns and rows. Each sensor element is associated with a thin film access device disposed in a first current path through which an activation current is provided to activate the sensor element. Each sensor element is read through a respective second current path. The second current paths do not include the thin film access device of the first current path. As such, noise from the thin film access device is isolated from the second current paths.
US09279831B2 Probe card and fabricating method thereof
A probe card includes a circuit board and an integrated circuit (IC) test interface. The IC test interface includes a first probe assembly, disposed on a terminal of the circuit board, and a second probe assembly, disposed on another terminal of the circuit board, wherein the first probe assembly and the second probe assembly are separated to allow being independently assembled to, or disassembled from, the circuit board. Each of the first probe assembly and the second probe assembly includes a probe base, disposed on the circuit board; a plurality of needles, which are cantilever needles; and a covering layer, for covering the plurality of needles, and fixed on a surface of the probe base.
US09279830B2 Test probe structures and methods including positioning test probe structures in a test head
The formation of test probe structures is described. One test probe structure includes a tip portion and a handle portion spaced a distance away from the tip portion. The test probe structure also includes a body bend portion positioned between the tip portion and the handle portion, and an intermediate portion positioned between the body bend portion and the handle portion. The body bend portion may include a curved shape extending from the intermediate portion to the tip portion. The tip portion may be formed to be offset from a longitudinal axis defined by the intermediate portion. The test probe structure defines a length and includes a cross-sectional area that is different at a plurality of positions along the length. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09279828B2 Sample fixing member for atomic force microscope
Provided is a sample fixing member for an atomic force microscope capable of reducing the drift amount of a sample during measurement. A sample fixing member for an atomic force microscope of the present invention includes a fibrous columnar structure including a plurality of fibrous columnar objects each having a length of 200 μm or more.
US09279827B2 Sensor module and sensor system
Reliability and accuracy of a sensor are secured while adjustment cost of a sensor module is suppressed. A signal component analysis part 10 receives a signal output from a signal processing part 7 before passing through a low-pass filter 8, analyzes whether or not application of a fragile frequency with respect to a physical quantity is equal to or more than a threshold level, if the application of the fragile frequency is equal to or more than the threshold level, outputs output stop signals to output signal control parts 9, 16. The output signal control parts 9, 16 receive control signals output from the signal component analysis part 10, and outputs an acceleration signal and a physical quantity signal from which noise has been removed by the low-pass filters 8, 15 through the signal processing parts 7, 14.
US09279823B2 Optical accelerometer
There is provided an optical accelerometer including a first substrate, a second substrate, a spacer and a processing unit. The first substrate includes a frame, a movable member and at least one elastic member. Periodic slots are formed on the movable member along at least one direction to be served as a diffraction grating. The elastic member is connected between the frame and the movable member. The second substrate includes at least one sensing unit configured to detect a diffraction pattern formed by the diffraction grating. The spacer is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate to define a predetermined height. The processing unit is coupled to the sensing unit and configured to calculate a 3D acceleration according to the diffraction pattern.
US09279821B2 Deicing system in sodar systems
A system for heating the sound-reflective mirror surface of a phased array monostatic sodar apparatus. The system has a heat source located at a position that is spaced from the mirror, a control system that controls the operation of the heat source, a working fluid that is heated by the heat source and used to transfer heat from the source to the mirror, and a delivery system that constrains the heated working fluid and delivers it from the heat source to the mirror.
US09279815B2 Human Streptococcus pneumoniae antibodies and uses therefor
The present invention is directed to particular monoclonal antibodies and fragments thereof that find use in the detection, prevention and treatment of Streptococcus pneumoniae infections. In particular, these antibodies may kill Streptococcus pneumoniae or limit the replication of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Also disclosed are improved methods for producing such monoclonal antibodies.
US09279814B2 Solid state synthesis hydroxyl radicals for high throughput structure determination of proteins and nucleic acids by oxidative footprinting
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for structural mapping of a macromolecule comprising an amount of persulfide effective to generate hydroxyl radicals upon contact with an aqueous solution. The present invention further relates to methods for structural mapping a macromolecule in an aqueous solution and methods for structural mapping a plurality of macromolecules in parallel, wherein each macromolecule is in a separate aqueous solution.
US09279808B2 Method of detecting and identifying circulating antigens in human biological samples
Disclosed herein is a method of detecting and identifying antigens that are shed into human bodily fluids during infection. The disclosed method allows circulating antigens associated with a particular infection to be detected within minutes or hours from testing as compared to days required with the current methods. Methods of identifying diagnostic indicators/targets for a given condition or disease are disclosed which include immunizing a verterinary subject with biological fluids obtained from a human infected with particular antigens to identify diagnostic targets for immunoassay. Also disclosed are methods of diagnosing and monitoring a B. pseudomallei-associated condition, such as melioidosis. Point-of-care immunoassays are also provided that can be used to diagnose or monitor the efficacy of a B. pseudomallei-associated condition treatment. These immunoassays can also be used for rapid diagnosis of infection produced by B. pseudomallei, such as meliodosis.
US09279807B2 Materials and methods for the treatment of celiac disease
The present invention provides materials and methods for the treatment of celiac disease. In addition, the present invention provides materials and methods of monitoring the treatment of a subject having celiac disease.
US09279801B2 Devices, systems and methods for high-throughput electrophysiology
Electrophysiology culture plates are provided and are formed from a transparent microelectrode array (MEA) plate. The MEA plate comprises a substrate, a first layer and a first insulating layer. The substrate has a plurality of vias extending from an upper to a lower surface, each via being in electrical contact with each of a plurality of contact pads disposed on the lower surface. The first layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and has a plurality of MEA arrays in in electrical communication with at least a first routing layer. Each MEA array comprises a plurality of reference electrodes and a plurality of microelectrodes and the first routing layer is in electrical communication with a select number of the plurality of vias. A first insulating layer is disposed on the first layer. The MEA plate is joined to a biologic culture plate having a plurality of culture wells such that each culture well defines an interior cavity having a bottom surface that is at least partially transparent and in positioned in registration with a select optical port. The MEA plate is coupled to the biologic culture well plate such that each MEA array is operatively coupled to one culture well wherein each microelectrode and each reference electrode are in electrical communication with the interior cavity through the bottom surface of the culture well.
US09279800B2 Apparatus, method, system for the determination of the aggregation rate of red blood cells
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, method, system for the determination of the aggregation rate of red blood cells. More specifically, the invention concerns a method, system, and the relative apparatus used to determine the aggregation rate of red blood cells, and other parameters related to these, such as viscosity, deformability, elasticity, density, in the field of in vitro medical analyses, using optical systems after or during inducted forces for red blood cell disruption and redistribution generated by ultrasound waves.
US09279798B2 Deep-MALDI TOF mass spectrometry of complex biological samples, e.g., serum, and uses thereof
A method of analyzing a biological sample, for example serum or other blood-based samples, using a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer instrument is described. The method includes the steps of applying the sample to a sample spot on a MALDI-TOF sample plate and directing more than 20,000 laser shots to the sample at the sample spot and collecting mass-spectral data from the instrument. In some embodiments at least 100,000 laser shots and even 500,000 shots are directed onto the sample. It has been discovered that this approach, referred to as “deep-MALDI”, leads to a reduction in the noise level in the mass spectra and that a significant amount of additional spectral information can be obtained from the sample. Moreover, peaks visible at lower number of shots become better defined and allow for more reliable comparisons between samples.
US09279797B2 Multiwell microelectrode array with optical stimulation
An electro-optical stimulation and recording system is disclosed, including a substrate and a plurality of wells coupled to the substrate. The system also includes at least one electrode set disposed proximate a respective one of the plurality of wells, wherein the electrode set comprises at least one electrode configured to collect an electric signal associated with at least a portion of the respective well. The system also includes a light-emitting element set corresponding to a respective one of the wells and configured to deliver optical stimulation to at least a portion of the respective well.
US09279794B2 Systems and methods for compensating long term sensitivity drift of electrochemical gas sensors exposed to nitric oxide
Described are systems and methods for compensating long term sensitivity drift of catalytic type electrochemical gas sensors used in systems for delivering therapeutic nitric oxide (NO) gas to a patient by compensating for drift that may be specific to the sensors atypical use in systems for delivering therapeutic nitric oxide gas to a patient. In at least some instances, the long term sensitivity drift of catalytic type electrochemical gas sensors can be addressed using calibration schedules, which can factor in the absolute change in set dose of NO being delivered to the patient that can drive one or more baseline calibrations. The calibration schedules can be used reduce the amount of times the sensor goes offline. Systems and methods described may factor in in actions occurring at the delivery system and/or aspects of the surrounding environment, prior to performing a baseline calibration, and may postpone the calibration and/or rejected using the sensor's output for the calibration.
US09279791B2 Odor sensing system
An odor sensing system including a plurality of odor sensors, each odor sensor being configured to output a detection signal in response to at least one odor molecule; at least one chromatographic membrane disposed at the plurality of odor sensors through which the odor molecule diffuses to reach the odor sensor; and a pattern analyzer configured to analyze the detection signals over time to identify the odor molecule is described.
US09279790B2 Analysis method for dye for organic solar cell and purification method therefor
This analysis method includes: subjecting a sample solution of a dye-containing sample in an organic solvent to normal-phase liquid chromatography to separate the sample solution and detect separated components. The normal-phase liquid chromatography involves (B1) using a separation column filled with a column packing material which is prepared by modifying a base material with a polar modifying group, and (B2) using as an eluent a polar organic solvent containing an acid.
US09279787B2 Crankshaft flaw detection device
A crankshaft flaw detection device (1) used for detecting flaws in the crank pin, web, and fillet section of a crankshaft comprises: a pair of shaft flaw detection heads (2, 3) configured so as to be capable of sandwiching the crank pin (C2) therebetween, and having a first probe (2b) capable of detecting flaws on the shaft surface of the crank pin (C2) or a second probe (3b) capable of detecting flaws in a fillet section at the base of the shaft; and a perpendicular surface flaw detection head (4) configured so as to be capable of coming in contact with the crank pin (C2) and having a third probe (4b) capable of detecting flaws in the side surface of the web (C3). The crankshaft flaw detection device (1) is characterized by the perpendicular surface flaw detection head (4) and the pair of shaft flaw detection heads (2, 3) being movable within the perpendicular surface
US09279780B2 Filters, filter assemblies, filter systems and methods for identifying installation of qualified filter elements
A filter assembly has a qualified filter element that filters fuel, a filter housing for the qualified filter element and a water-in-fuel sensor that senses presence of water in the filter housing. An electrical resistance of the water-in-fuel sensor changes based upon whether the qualified filter element is installed in the housing. A filter assembly can also have a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on at least one of the filter housing and the qualified filter element. A plurality of wires are disposed on at least the other of the filter housing and the qualified filter element. The control circuit determines that the qualified filter element is installed in the filter housing based on a change in the electrical current in the plurality of wires.
US09279776B2 X-ray analysis apparatus with single crystal X-ray aperture and method for manufacturing a single crystal X-ray aperture
An X-ray analysis apparatus has at least one X-ray aperture (4; 4a, 4b) which delimits an X-ray beam (RS) emitted by an X-ray source (2). The at least one X-ray aperture (4; 4a, 4b) is disposed at a separation from the sample (5) and has a single crystal aperture body (8) with a through pinhole (9). The single crystal aperture body (8) forms a peripheral continuous edge (10) which delimits the X-ray beam (RS) and starting from which the pinhole (9) widens like a funnel in a direction of an outlet opening (11) of the X-ray aperture (4; 4a, 4b) in a first area (B1). The X-ray analysis apparatus reduces impairment of X-ray measurements due to parasitic scattered radiation and at little expense.
US09279765B2 Dynamic light scattering based microrheology of complex fluids with improved single-scattering mode detection
A fluid characterization measuring instrument comprises a sample vessel (14) for a bulk complex sample fluid having a capacity that is substantially larger than a domain size of the complex sample fluid and that is sufficiently large to cause bulk scattering effects to substantially exceed surface effects for the complex fluid sample, a coherent light source (12) positioned to illuminate the bulk complex sample fluid in the sample vessel and a first fibre (16) having a first end positioned to receive backscattered light from the sample after it has interacted with the sample. The first fibre is positioned close enough to an optical axis of the coherent light source and to the sample vessel to substantially decrease a contribution of multiply scattered light in the backscattered light. The instrument further comprises a first photon-counting detector (20) positioned to receive the backscattered light from a second end of the fibre, correlation logic (22) responsive to the first photon-counting detector and single-scattering fluid property analysis logic responsive to the correlation logic and operative to derive at least one fluid property for the sample fluid.
US09279764B2 Method and apparatus for manipulating near field using light scattering
An apparatus for manipulating surface near-field light resulting from light emitted from a light source that passes through a scattering layer is disclosed. Also, a method of finding a phase of incident light to cause constructive interference at a target spot using light scattering to manipulate the surface near-field.
US09279757B2 Blood measuring apparatus
A blood measuring apparatus includes: a first chamber which includes a first wall provided with an aperture and in which diluted blood is contained; a second chamber which includes the first wall, a second wall opposed to the first wall and a peripheral wall and in which diluting solution is contained, the first and second chambers communicating with each other through the aperture; first and second electrodes which are disposed in the first and second chambers, respectively; a measuring unit which performs a blood measurement by causing a current to flow between the first and second electrodes; a diluting solution supplying unit which supplies diluting solution along a part of the peripheral wall which is adjacent to a peripheral edge of the first wall; and a sucking unit which sucks the diluting solution from the second wall.
US09279749B2 Laser microdissection method and apparatus
Systems and methods for automated laser microdissection are disclosed. In one variation, targeted biological material is manually or automatically selected and a transfer film is placed in juxtaposition to the location of an interior of a cut path. In another variation, a sample of biological material is mounted onto a polymer membrane which is then placed onto a substrate. Targeted biological material is manually or automatically selected and a transfer film is placed in juxtaposition with the targeted biological material on the side of the biological material. In yet another variation, a sample of biological material is mounted onto a polymer membrane which is then inverted onto a substrate. Targeted biological material is manually or automatically selected and a transfer film is placed in juxtaposition with the targeted biological material on the side of the polymer membrane. Then, an UV laser cuts along a cut path around the targeted portions of biological material in a closed cut path or a substantially closed cut path defining an interior and an exterior portion of the tissue sample. In a substantially closed cut path, bridges are left spanning the interior of the cut path and the exterior of the cut path. An IR laser activates at least a portion of the transfer film such that the transfer film in the vicinity of targeted portion adheres to the biological material interior to the cut path. The transfer film is then removed separating the targeted portions of biological material which are adhered to the transfer film from the remaining portion of the tissue sample.
US09279736B2 System and method for calibrating hydraulic valves
A system and method for calibrating an electronically actuatable hydraulic valve in a work machine may include at least one supply valve and at least one drain valve to be calibrated and a bypass valve in fluid communication with a pump and a fluid source. The at least one supply valve and the at least one drain valve may be calibrated by opening the at least one supply valve and the at least one drain valve, closing the bypass valve, setting the pump to a desired flow output, determining a first current command for the at least one supply valve corresponding to a first target pressure parameter and determining a second current command for the at least one drain valve corresponding to a second target pressure parameter.
US09279735B2 Machine and method for monitoring the state of a safety bearing of a machine
An operating method for container quay cranes used to load and unload container ships aided by a PC with a monitor in a crane driver's cabin. The crane driver operates a touchscreen on the monitor, thereby enabling the crane to reach its specified target in a fully or partially automatic manner. Several operating modes, including a training mode, are provided.
US09279729B2 Infrared sensor
A lightweight infrared sensor which is readily and stably erected to a substrate, the infrared sensor includes an insulating film; a first and second heat sensitive element are disposed on one surface of the insulating film separately; a first and second conductive film on one surface of the insulating film and are respectively connected to the first and the second heat sensitive element; an infrared reflection film on the other surface of the insulating film so as to face the second heat sensitive element; a reinforcing plate on which a sensor part window corresponding to a sensor part is formed and which is adhered to the insulating film; and a first and a second terminal electrode are respectively connected to the first and the second wiring film and formed on the edge of the insulating film.
US09279726B2 Optical device with reduced crosstalk
In one embodiment, an optical device comprising an emitter, first and second emitter optical elements and a receiver is disclosed. The emitter and the receiver may be arranged substantially along a longitudinal axis. The first and second emitter optical elements may be interposing the longitudinal axis. One other embodiment discloses an optical device comprising an emitter and a receiver arranged on a longitudinal axis. The optical device may further comprise first and second emitter optical elements arranged along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis but interposing the longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, a proximity sensor having first and second emitters interposing a longitudinal axis is disclosed.
US09279725B2 System and method of quantifying color and intensity of light sources
A system and method of quantifying color and intensity of light sources including LEDs, HBLEDs (High Brightness LEDs), and other Solid State Lights (SSLs) using C-parameters to model a Spectral Power Distribution (SPD) to improve precision, accuracy, repeatability and usefulness of measurement of optical properties of wavelength and radiant flux in manufacturing of an object, designing products and processes that use the object, and describing/defining the object, is provided. In one embodiment, a method of characterizing a Solid State Light (SSL) source includes a SSL source under test (DUT), a Spectral Power Distribution (SPD) of light emission of the SSL source, a curve-fitting function, a set of configuration data comprising the order of the curve-fitting function, the number of nodes, wavelength boundary limits, saturation threshold, and noise floor threshold, a computing device for curve-fitting, node detection, iteration and program control and inputting and outputting data; and a set of C-Parameters, noise parameters, and confidence values.
US09279717B2 Multidirectional input device
A multidirectional input device includes a case; a slider slidable in a first direction and mounted to the case; a movable member mounted on an upper surface of the slider so as to be slidable in a second direction; a first reflection portion provided on any one of the movable member, the case, and the slider; a first light-emitting device arranged to be opposite to the first reflection portion; and a first light-receiving device arranged to be opposite to the first reflection portion, wherein the first reflection portion has a plurality of steps confronting the side facing the first light-emitting device, and a distance between the first reflection portion and the first light-emitting device in a third direction varies according to an area.
US09279712B2 Low profile load cells for use with a scale
A low profile, high capacity load cell suitable for use in connection with in motion weighing or other weighing scales and systems. Also disclosed are scales for use with the load cell, and systems for using the scales. The load cells are especially suited for use in high speed in-motion weighing.
US09279710B2 Digital flowmeter
A control and measurement system for a coriolis flowmeter having a flowtube, a driver adapted to vibrate the flowtube, and a pair of sensors adapted to generate signals indicative of movement of the flowtube when it is being vibrated by the driver, wherein the sensors are positioned relative to one another so the signals from the sensors are indicative of a mass flow rate of fluid through the flowtube. A digital drive signal generator is adapted to generate a variable digital drive signal for controlling operation of the driver. The digital drive signal generator can be adapted to cause the driver to resist motion of the flowtube during a first time period and amplify motion of the flowtube during a second time period. The digital drive signal generator can also be adapted to initiate motion of the flowtube by sending one or more square wave signals to the driver.
US09279699B2 Leveraging a femtocell network for premises management or monitoring
The disclosed subject matter relates to an architecture that can leverage femtocell network infrastructure in order to facilitate premises management or monitoring. In particular, the architecture can leverage the local presence of a home nodeB (HNB) located at a premises associated with a subscriber in order to aggregate, process and/or distribute various state information that can be collected at the premises.
US09279698B2 Metering and measuring-point system for measuring and metering electrical power/electricity, and a method
A metering and measuring point system for measuring and metering electrical energy/electricity drawn off and/or fed into a drawing off and/or feeding device at a fixed geographical point by a consumption unit, comprises one or more stationary drawing off and/or feeding devices that are connected to the power supply and configured for drawing off and/or feeding in electrical energy/electricity by means of consumption/generation units and at least one identifiable non-stationary functional unit for measuring and metering electrical energy/electricity that is conductively, via an electric conductor or inductively, drawn off or fed into one or more stationary drawing off and/or feeding devices by consumption/generation units.
US09279697B1 Student driver feedback system allowing entry of tagged events by instructors during driving tests
Tagged driving events may be generated during a driving session from sensor data collected via one or more sensors and/or entered by an instructor. The tagged driving events may include a description of each driving event and its associated severity or weight as it relates to a scoring process as well as a time and/or a location of the driving event. A driving session report may be generated using the tagged driving events and may include a driver feedback score that is weighted based on the severity associated with each of the tagged driving events and/or the collected data, a map of the driving session route that indicates a map location of each tagged driving event, and/or a listing of each tagged driving event. The driving session report may be displayed such that a user may select a tagged driving event to view information associated with the tagged driving event.
US09279696B2 Automatic handover of positioning parameters from a navigation device to a mobile device
Example methods, apparatuses, or articles of manufacture are disclosed herein that may be utilized, in whole or in part, to facilitate or support one or more operations or techniques for automatic or more dynamic handover of one or more positioning parameters from a navigation device, such as a personal navigation device (PND) co-located with a vehicle, for example, to a mobile communication device for use in or with a mobile communication device.
US09279695B2 Method of operating a navigation system to provide geographic location information
A computer implemented method of operating a navigation system to provide geographic location information is provided. The method comprises receiving a query text string representing a query for a geographic location from a user and obtaining data records that represent a plurality of candidate geographic locations. The method computes a text matching score that indicates how much of the query text string matches a record text string of the candidate geographic location and applies a usage pattern weight to the text matching score to obtain an overall score value for the candidate geographic location. The candidate geographic locations are ranked based on the overall score values.
US09279693B2 Navigation system and method for determining a route based on sun position and weather
A method for a computing device to determine a route entails determining a sun position relative to the route, determining weather conditions along the route, and determining whether to provide alternate routing based on both the sun position and the weather conditions. In one implementation, time-specific and weather-specific digital photographs of points of interest along the route are downloaded for display on the device when the device is located at or near the points of interest.
US09279692B2 Optimum route determination with tiling
An optimum route search may be conducted through the use of a tiling overlay on the network of road segments. Overlaying the tiling (grid) over the road segments allows for a reduction of the number of road segments considered for an optimum path as road segments can be evaluated on whether the road segment is part of an optimal path to the borders of a first tile and then successively larger frames of tiles around the initial tile. By reducing the number of road segments considered for the optimum route search to road segments that are part of optimal routes to various tile boundary edges, the computation of the optimum route for the route of interest may be quicker and less resource intensive than efforts to determine optimum routes through other methods.
US09279691B2 Method and apparatus for two-stage planning
A plan through a space having a near field and a far field is determined. Using a sensor device, measurements of the far field are obtained and stored in an electronic memory. A processor uses the measurements to determine the viability of each far field plan among a plurality of candidate far field plans. The processor also determines a flexibility score for each of the candidate far field plans and selects a composite plan comprising the viable far field plan having a highest flexibility score among the viable candidate far field plans.
US09279686B2 Systems and methods for indoor navigation control by LED lighting devices
The present disclosure provides an indoor navigation control system containing at least two LED lighting devices and a location server. Each LED lighting device includes a Wi-Fi module and a driving power supply, and is used as a wireless access node to transmit Wi-Fi signals to an adjacent node. Nodes within a Wi-Fi signal coverage area have Internet or LAN access. The location server stores location information of the Wi-Fi module of each LED lighting device. The LED lighting devices and the location server communicate with a smart terminal to calculate a position, a moving direction, and a moving speed of an object according to the location information of each LED lighting device and a moving time length of the object. The Wi-Fi module of each LED lighting device further controls the driving power supply to adjust the status of the LED lighting device according to a control command from the smart terminal.
US09279682B2 Inertial unit having vibrating gyros mounted on a carousel, and an angle-measurement method
An inertial unit comprising an inertial core (3) that is connected to a control unit (50) and that includes three gyros (9, 10, 11) that are mounted relative to one another so as to have sensing axes (X, Y, Z) that are substantially perpendicular to one another, the gyros being vibrating axisymmetric gyros with hemispherical resonators, the unit being characterized in that the core is mounted on a carousel (2) arranged to drive the inertial core in rotation about an axis of rotation (4) at at least one frequency that corresponds to a minimum for spectral error density of the gyros. An angle-measurement method making use of the unit.
US09279678B2 Prepreg pasting state inspection apparatus
Even when a pasting target body to which prepregs are pasted has a shape changed portion such as a curved portion, prepreg pasting states are accurately inspected. A prepreg pasting state inspection apparatus for inspecting a gap between adjacent prepregs on a pasting target body has a laser for emitting slit light along an inclined plane so that a projected pattern of the slit light is formed across the adjacent prepregs, a camera for imaging an irradiation region of the laser, and a control unit for determining whether the gap between the adjacent prepregs is within an allowance based on a signal from the camera. The apparatus also has a range sensor for measuring a distance between a reference position and the irradiation region, and focus adjusting units for adjusting focus positions of the camera and the laser based on the signal from the range sensor.
US09279677B2 Corresponding point search device and distance measurement device
A corresponding point search device includes an acquiring unit, a search unit and a determination unit. The acquiring unit acquires a first image obtained by imaging a subject with a first imaging apparatus in a focused state in which the first imaging apparatus is focused on the subject by moving of a movable portion, a second image obtained by imaging the subject with a second imaging apparatus and position information of the movable portion when the first imaging apparatus is in the focused state. The search unit searches for a corresponding point corresponding to a baseline point in one image in the other image for the one image and the other image of the first and second images. The determination unit determines the search range in which the corresponding point is searched by the search unit in the other image based on the position information.
US09279673B2 Semiconductor device and method of calibrating warpage testing system to accurately measure semiconductor package warpage
A warpage test system uses a calibration block to calibrate the warpage test system over a temperature profile. The calibration block includes a first metal block bonded to a second metal block. The first metal block includes a first metal and a second different metal. The first metal block includes a CTE different than a CTE of the second metal block. The calibration block is disposed in the warpage test system. A warpage of the calibration block is measured over a temperature profile ranging from 28° C. to 260° C. A deviation between the measured warpage of the calibration block and a known thermal expansion of the calibration block over the temperature profile is recorded. The warpage measurement in a semiconductor package is compensated by the deviation between the measured warpage of the calibration block and the known thermal expansion or warpage of the calibration block over the temperature profile.
US09279663B2 Method and apparatus to fold optics in tools for measuring shape and/or thickness of a large and thin substrate
A semiconductor measuring tool has a folding mirror configuration that directs a light beam to pass the same space multiple times to reduce the size and footprint. Furthermore, the folding mirrors may reflect the light beam at less than forty-five degrees; thereby allowing for smaller folding mirrors as compared to the prior art.
US09279661B2 Information processing apparatus and information processing method
An information processing apparatus which estimates a three-dimensional position-and-orientation of a measuring object using an imaging apparatus capable of capturing a two-dimensional image and a range image, includes a data storing unit configured to store verification data for estimating a position-and-orientation of a measuring object, a two-dimensional image input unit configured to input a two-dimensional image captured by the imaging apparatus in a first position-and-orientation, a range image input unit configured to input a range image captured by the imaging apparatus in a second position-and-orientation, a position-and-orientation information input unit configured to acquire position-and-orientation difference information which is relative position-and-orientation information in the first position-and-orientation and the second position-and-orientation, and a calculation unit configured to calculate, based on the position-and-orientation difference information, a position-and-orientation of the measuring object so that the verification data for estimating the position-and-orientation matches the two-dimensional image and the range image.
US09279653B2 System and method for verifying screw threads
A thread gauge inspection apparatus includes a receiving member to hold a reference thread gauge and a motor to bi-directionally rotate the reference thread gauge. A counter counts a number of turns the reference thread gauge is rotated by the motor, and a torque monitoring device monitors the torque produced by the motor as the reference thread gauge is rotated. A controller, when the monitored torque exceeds a predetermined value, causes the motor to stop rotating the reference thread gauge and causes the counter to stop counting the number of turns the reference thread gauge is rotated. The controller compares the count produced by the counter with an inputted specific turn count and indicates the thread quality of threaded hole or a threaded stud passed inspection when the count produced by the counter is equal to the inputted specific turn count.
US09279650B2 Crossbow bolt having a rear deployable cutter device and practice bolt for simulating the same
An arrow having a forward portion and an aft portion. The aft portion includes a necked down region having a diameter less than the diameter of the frontal portion. A cutter device includes one or more blades and is mountable along the necked down region of the aft portion. A tube having a plurality of vanes is disposed over the blades during arrow flight and is slidable rearward to allow the blades to deploy outward upon engagement of the vanes with a target.
US09279647B2 Universal lighted nock and processes therefor
A lighted nock assembly is disclosed for use with an archery projectile. A cap fits within the tail end of the projectile shaft. The cap comprises a shoulder to bear against the projectile shaft, a recess terminating in a floor portion, and a face to bear against the shoulder of a nock. An LED/battery assembly fits within the recess of the cap abutting the floor portion. A nock fits over the LED/battery assembly and into the recess of the cap. Ready-to-fire, the LED/battery assembly comprises an activation gap between the LED lamp and the body of the battery assembly. A gap, greater than or equal to the activation gap, is left between the shoulder of the nock and the face of the cap. When fired, the bow string drives an internal surface of the nock into the front end of the LED/battery assembly and illuminates the LED lamp.
US09279643B2 Preemptive countermeasure management
Embodiments of the invention are directed to techniques for preemptively managing countermeasures of a vehicle. Prior to identifying an actual threat, at least one countermeasure device may be preemptively oriented to point in a direction most likely to produce a threat. The preemptive orientation may be determined my environmental information and/or vehicular information. Once an actual threat is identified, the countermeasure device may re-orient to point to the identified threat. The preemptive orientation may save time in the re-orientation process thereby providing extra time for countermeasures to be actively deployed.
US09279642B2 Portable multi-use self-defense device
The portable multi-use self-defense device can include a trigger; a housing; two or more canisters, said canisters containing at least one of gas and liquids; and an engagement mechanism coupled to said trigger and to said canisters, said engagement mechanism being capable of actuating the discharge of the at least one of gas and liquids from the two or more canisters substantially simultaneously.
US09279629B2 Semi-automatic pistol
An improved M1911 pistol, method of making an improved M1911 pistol, and system for improving performance of an M1911 pistol. Replacement parts for the M1911 pistol include stainless steel, which may be a 17-4Ph metal. Improved replacement parts include an improved frame and an improved slide.
US09279621B2 Internal heat exchanger for a motor vehicle air-conditioning system
A heat exchanger for a motor vehicle air-conditioning system includes: an outer tube, and an inner tube. The outer tube has a first path inlet and a first path outlet through which a first fluid is permitted to flow. The inner tube is disposed within the outer tube and has a second path inlet and a second path outlet through which a second fluid is permitted to flow. The inner tube branches off in a first region into at least two heat exchanger tubes.
US09279613B2 Air separation method and apparatus
A cryogenic air separation method and apparatus in which first and second liquid streams are produced. The first liquid stream has a higher oxygen content than air and can consist of a higher pressure distillation column bottoms and the second liquid stream, for instance, air, has a lower oxygen content than the first liquid stream and an argon content no less than the air. The second liquid stream is subcooled through indirect heat exchange with the first liquid stream and both of such streams are introduced into the lower pressure column. The second liquid stream is introduced into the lower pressure column above that point at which the crude liquid oxygen column bottoms or any portion thereof is introduced into the lower pressure column to increase a liquid to vapor ratio below the introduction of the second liquid stream and therefore, reduce the oxygen present within the column overhead.
US09279608B2 Heat pump
A first bypass pipe has one end connected to a main pipe extending from a compressor to an indoor heat exchanger, and its other end branched off into parts that are each connected to the main pipe on an inlet side of an outdoor heat exchanger, and a second bypass pipe has one end connected to an injection port communicating with the compression chamber of the compressor in which compression is taking place and its other end branched off into parts that are each connected to the main pipe on an outlet side of the outdoor heat exchangers. During a defrosting operation that removes frost on the outdoor heat exchangers, a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor is supplied from the first bypass pipe to the outdoor heat exchanger to be defrosted, and is then passed through the second bypass pipe and injected from the injection port of the compressor.
US09279595B2 Methods, systems, and related architectures for managing network connected thermostats
A thermostat management system facilitates an automatic pairing of a thermostat with a thermostat communication account. The thermostat management system receives a public network address associated with a computer device on a private network accessing the thermostat management account. The system retrieves the thermostat metadata including a public network address associated with a registration of the thermostat with the thermostat management system. The public network address registered with the thermostat metadata is provided by a router on the private network and therefore should match the public network address used by computer devices on the private network. The thermostat management account is paired with the thermostat if the thermostat has the same public network address as the computer device accessing the thermostat management account. Pairing the thermostat management account to the thermostat allows the thermostat management account to communicate with the thermostat over the public network through the thermostat management system.
US09279592B2 Evaporative cooler
An evaporative cooler 10 comprises a housing 12 defining an inlet 14 for air. An air cooling arrangement 16 located in the housing between the inlet and an inlet to a duct 18 extending to an air outlet 20. A bath 24 for water is located towards a bottom region of the housing. Ducting 22 extends from the bath to a liquid outlet 26 in a top region of the housing, for releasing liquid onto the air cooling arrangement. The bath is configured to capture the released liquid. A fan 30 cooperates with the duct 18 to draw air through the air inlet, the air cooling arrangement and into the duct towards the outlet. The same electrical motor 32 is used to drive both the fan and the rotor or impeller of a water pump 34 for moving the liquid from the bath to the liquid outlet.
US09279590B2 Warm weather boiler shutdown
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for automatically shutting down a boiler system when it is not needed (e.g., during warm weather) based upon calls for heat output by a temperature control element (e.g., thermostat) within a facility. The apparatus has a temperature control element that provides calls for heat to a controller when a temperature within a facility is below a setting value. The controller controls operation of a boiler, having a medium with a temperature between a low limit and a high limit, in response to the call for heat. A monitoring element determines a prevalence of calls for heat and selectively adjusts the low limit based upon the determined prevalence of calls for heat. Therefore, when calls for heat are less frequent the monitoring element will reduce the low limit to reduce fuel consumption of the boiler.
US09279589B2 Door latch system and method
A door latch system for a heating system is provided. The door latch system may be installed with a fireplace, wood stove, pellet stove, or other suitable system. The door latch system comprises a handle, a handle head and a catch. The handle head may be configured to engage the catch. Moreover, the catch may be configured with a self adjusting tension system, such that when the handle head engages the catch, the catch is configured to exert a tension force on the handle head. This tension force also causes the handle head to compress the seal of a fireplace door where the door latch system is installed.
US09279586B2 Resonator device for damping the pressure oscillation within a combustion chamber and a method for operating a combustion arrangement
A resonator device is provided for damping a pressure oscillation within a combustion chamber. The resonator device may comprise: a container filled with a gas; an opening in the container; and a heating element adapted to generate a flame. The flame is arranged to heat the gas within the container. The resonator device is comprised in a combustion arrangement comprising a combustion chamber for defining a combustion space for burning fuel. The container is connected to the combustion chamber such that an inside of the container is in communication with the combustion space via the opening. The resonator device has a resonance frequency equal to a pressure oscillation frequency within the combustion chamber under normal load conditions.
US09279581B2 Steam boiler for a steam reformer
Embodiments are disclosed that relate to a compact steam boiler which may provide steam to a steam reformer in a fuel cell system. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a steam boiler including an outer shell and a first inner tube and a second inner tube within the outer shell, the first and second inner tubes spaced away from one another. The steam boiler further includes a twisted ribbon positioned inside each of the first and second inner tubes.
US09279574B2 Lighting module
A lighting module may include a housing having an open rear side, a light source substrate with at least one light source arranged thereon, a driver circuit board accommodated in the housing, at least one electrical connection element for electrically connecting the driver circuit board to the light source substrate, and a closure element for closing the open rear side, wherein the closure element is designed for feeding through at least one electrical connection.
US09279552B2 Electronic candle
The present invention discloses an electronic candle, which includes a candle body, wherein a cavity is formed inside the candle body, a lamp hole is formed in the upper surface of the candle body, a light-emitting unit is installed inside the cavity and includes a base, a first through hole and a second through hole are formed in the upper surface of the base, fixed pipes are clamped in the first through hole and the second through hole, a first light-emitting body is inserted at the lower part of the fixed pipe in the first through hole, a second light-emitting body is inserted at the lower part of the fixed pipe in the second through hole. The electronic candle is reasonable in structure, safe in use and good in effect; and the candle body is also capable of generating a seven-colored effect, thus the electronic candle is very attractive.
US09279544B1 LED linear lighting strip
An LED lighting kit comprises an extrusion, an LED strip, a tapered wedge, and a mounting clip. The clip is sized and shaped to springably engage ledges in a first channel of the extrusion when the strip is mounted. In one aspect, two extrusions are butted end-to-end and are aligned by inserting the tapered wedge into the first channel of each extrusion prior to butting them together. The extrusion contains a second channel that houses the LED strip. A translucent diffuser is springably inserted into the second channel, thereby diffusing light that is emitted by the LED strip. End caps are inserted into the ends of the extrusion to complete the light kit. At least one of the end caps has a hole to admit electrical wires to power the LED strip.
US09279542B2 Compressed hydrogen fueling control valve
A fill control system includes a fuel storage vessel, a fuel inlet in fluid communication with the fuel storage vessel to provide fluid communication between a fuel source and the fuel storage vessel, and a fill control valve disposed between and in fluid communication with the fuel inlet and the fuel storage vessel, an actuation of the fill control valve causing a pressure level upstream thereof which emulates a full condition of the fuel storage vessel.
US09279536B2 Self-balancing adjustable flat panel mounting system
A self-balanced adjustable mounting system for a flat panel display. A display interface having a hollow, semi-spherical shell portion is attached to the flat panel display. The semi-spherical shell is formed with a generally constant radius of curvature. The center of the radius of curvature is disposed proximate the center of gravity of the flat panel display with the display interface attached. The display interface is received in a guide structure that has a bearing portion engaging the outer surface of the semi-spherical shell, and a second bearing portion engaging the inner surface of the semi-spherical shell through an aperture formed in the semi-spherical shell. The semi-spherical shell is guided between the first and second bearing portions so that the flat panel display and device interface are generally rotatable about the center of the radius of curvature of the semi-spherical shell. The display is self balancing in virtually any position in the range of travel of the device due to the location of the center of rotation proximate the center of gravity.
US09279517B2 Valve assembly, in particular for use in pneumatic networks
A valve assembly for use in a pneumatic network, includes a body having a first inlet port and a first air discharge port. A main duct includes a convergent portion, a restricted-section portion having a variable area of passage, and a divergent portion. An actuator assembly includes an intake volume and a second inlet port in fluid communication with the intake volume by valve means provided for enabling intake of a second fluid flow through the second inlet port and towards the intake volume, wherein the second fluid flow is drained off through the first discharge port together with the first fluid flow.
US09279508B1 Insert for a fluidic valve assembly
Apparatus for controlling a pressurized fluid in a piping network, and method for making the same. In accordance with some embodiments, a substantially cylindrical body has an annular wall surrounding a central axis with opposing first and second ends and at least one pass-through aperture extending through a medial portion of the wall. An annular valve seat is nested within a first end of the body. A moveable piston is aligned within the body along the central axis, the piston having a sealing surface adapted to contactingly engage an inner annular surface of the valve seat to establish a fluidic seal. The body, valve seat and piston form a valve insert for a valve housing.
US09279503B2 Constant volume combustion chamber
A constant volume combustion chamber, combustor, and method for constant volume combustion involve combusting a fuel in a chamber sealed by a pintle having a conical portion fitted into a conical nozzle throat and pulling the pintle away from the nozzle throat to allow combustion products to exhaust through a nozzle outlet. The shapes and surfaces of the pintle and nozzle throat provide for sealing the chamber at high pressures while resisting surface wear. Operational parameters for the combustor may be computer controlled in response to measured pressures and temperatures in the combustor.
US09279497B2 Connecting device for outside a variable-speed transmission
A connecting device of a vehicle drive-train, located outside a variable-speed transmission, for rotationally coupling a shaft to a drive-train element. A sliding sleeve is rotationally fixed on the shaft but slides axially between first and second positions. In the first position, the shaft is rotationally disengaged from the drive-train element and, in the second position, they are rotationally coupled. An actuator displaces the sliding sleeve between the first and second positions, with a shift groove along a peripheral contour of the sliding sleeve and engagement members for engaging in the groove. The sliding sleeve can rotate and move axially relative to the engagement members and the groove is shaped as a curved guiding such that, when the engagement members engage in the groove and the sliding sleeve rotates relative to the engagement member, the sliding sleeve moves axially between the first and second positions by virtue of the groove.
US09279491B2 Resin gear, and method and apparatus for producing the same
Gear-shaped resin sheets Sa are laminated such that tooth portions 2b are aligned in an axial direction, thereby preparing a spur gear-shaped net-shape body 4. Tooth portions of the resin gear formed in a lower die 12 are pressed in a helical tooth-shaped molding space to deform the tooth portions 4a of the net-shape body 4 into a helical tooth tilted relative to the axial direction, and the direction of reinforcement fibers at the tooth portions 2b of the molded resin gear 1 is tilted relative to the axial direction.
US09279487B1 Ball screw and parts
Double nut is capable of adjustment in a ball screw unit so as to regulate tension between the nut and the ball screw with their ball bearings such as to avoid or repair backlash in or maintain precision with the unit. The adjustment may be made without removal of the ball screw unit from a machine in which it operates or automatically. The double nut can be employed with or in methods of making, repair or adjustment of, and manufacturing with the ball screw unit with such a nut. A wiping contrivance for a ball screw nut or unit can be a member in annular form, and made and used in aspects analogous to those of the double nut. A depending foot, ball bearing return may be employed in a ball screw nut or unit in aspects analogous to those of the double nut.
US09279470B2 Front fork
A front fork includes an inner cylinder disposed inside an inner tube, a piston rod moving with an outer tube, a piston attached to a lower end portion of the piston rod and sectioning an oil chamber in the inner cylinder into a lower oil chamber and an upper oil chamber and a damping force generating portion at an outside of the inner tube having a first damping force generating portion generating resistance in working oil flowing in one direction in an external flow path, a second damping force generating portion disposed in series with the first damping force generating portion in the external flow path to generate resistance in working oil flowing in the other direction, and a pressurization portion having an oil reservoir chamber communicated to an intermediate oil chamber and pressurizing working oil in the intermediate oil chamber.
US09279465B2 Disc brake pad assembly
A disc brake pad assembly includes a pad and a shim plate. The shim plate includes locking pieces which are bent from a main body portion towards a pressure plate. The locking pieces are brought into abutment with circumferential edge portions of the pressure plate so as to be displaced in a rotating direction of a rotor. Projecting portions are formed at portions of the circumferential edge portion which are brought into abutment with one surface of each of the locking pieces. A circumferential central portion of a part of each of the projecting portions which faces the one surface projects further than both circumferential end portions thereof. The circumferential edge portion and the one surface of each of the locking pieces are spaced apart from each other at portions of the one surface which lie close to both circumferential end portions thereof.
US09279460B2 Accessory drive with friction clutch and electric motor
A friction clutch assembly for a vehicle accessory, particularly to drive a vehicle cooling pump, and more particularly as part of a dual mode drive for a cooling pump, together with an electric motor. The friction clutch assembly includes a friction plate member connected to a central rotatable shaft member used for operating the vehicle accessory. A biased armature member is adapted to force a friction plate member with friction linings thereon against a housing or cover which is rotating at input speed. A solenoid assembly is used to overcome the spring bias and pull the armature and friction plate member away from the housing.
US09279456B2 Housing mounted external bearing shield
A bearing assembly including an outer bearing ring and an inner bearing ring adapted to receive a shaft, with rolling elements between the rings, is provided. A seal extends radially between the inner bearing ring and the outer bearing ring. A housing is provided including an opening in which the outer bearing ring is supported. The housing includes at least one groove on a radially inner surface that extends from an axial end surface of the housing and at least one radially outwardly extending slot arranged within the at least one groove. A circumferential shield including a radially outer portion having at least one retention tab is engaged within the at least one slot of the housing. A body of the shield is arranged adjacent to the seal and a radially inner portion of the body extends radially inwardly to a radially outer surface of the inner bearing ring.
US09279449B2 Device for centering and guiding the rotation of a turbomachine shaft
A device for centering and guiding rotation of a turbine engine shaft. The device includes a roller bearing and a ball bearing mounted around the shaft and carried respectively by first and second flexible annular supports, together with an oil film compression damper having a rigid annular support arranged around the roller bearing, the supports of the ball bearing and of the damper, and the roller bearing being stacked transversely, extending one around another.
US09279448B2 Bearing release, in particular for a steering column
A bearing device which comprises an internal ring and an external ring, which are each provided with a bearing path for rolling elements which are arranged between the rings in contact with the bearing paths. At least one of the two rings comprises a casing which is provided with an axial portion, two radial portions at the ends thereof. This device also comprises two bearing elements which are mounted in the casing and which each form a bearing path, and at least one pretensioning element which is produced from resilient material and which is arranged between one of the radial portions of the casing and one of the bearing elements. A pretensioning element is mounted in the casing of a first ring in frictional contact with the second ring in order to apply a resistant torque during the rotation of one ring relative to the other.
US09279447B2 Bush bearing
A bush bearing includes a bearing body having an inner peripheral surface which is brought into contact with a cylindrical outer peripheral surface of a rotating shaft portion so as to be rotatable in a first direction, a groove provided on an outer peripheral surface of the bearing body so as to extend in the first direction, and an elastic ring fitted on said groove and having a pair of projecting portions and a portion, the pair of projecting portions partially projecting radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of said bearing body in second direction, the portion being provided at positions in the first direction between the pair of projecting portions, and not projecting radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the bearing body.
US09279438B2 Aircraft interior bracket
A bracket that includes a main body portion having a first portion and a second portion that form a first angle therebetween. The first portion includes opposing front and rear surfaces and the second portion includes opposing upper and lower surfaces. The first portion includes a fastener opening defined therethrough, the second portion includes an insert feature extending from the lower surface, and the second portion includes at least one adhesive opening defined therethrough.
US09279431B2 Method and equipment for detecting rotating stall and compressor
A method for detecting rotating stall in a compressor is disclosed herein. The method comprises measuring radial vibration of the rotor relative to the stator and generating a vibration measurement signal, calculating a frequency spectrum of the vibration measurement signal, identifying a plurality of frequency bandwidths of the frequency spectrum, neglecting one first frequency bandwidth of the plurality of frequency bandwidths if the rotation frequency of the rotor falls within the first frequency bandwidth, neglecting at least one second frequency bandwidth of the plurality of frequency bandwidths if the rotation frequency of the rotor falls below the second frequency bandwidth, determining the maximum magnitude of the spectrum in each of the non-neglected frequency bandwidths, and comparing each determined maximum magnitude and a predetermined value. Rotating stall is considered occurring if at least one of the comparisons shows that the corresponding determined maximum magnitude is greater than the predetermined value.
US09279426B2 Multi stage, clam shell vacuum pump
A multi-stage, clam shell, vacuum pump comprises two housing components (12) which are to be sealingly connected to one another such that an array of chambers extending longitudinally from an inlet region of the pump to an outlet region of the pump is defined thereby. Sealing means (30) are provided within the vacuum pump, between the two housing components, to prevent transfer of fluid in to and out of the vacuum pump where said components are connected. An array of discrete, elongate channels (33, 34, 36, 38) is provided, located between the sealing means (30) and the array of chambers (14, 16, 18, 20, 22). The channels serve to protect the sealing means (30) from fluid that passes through the chambers during operation of the vacuum pump. Each channel is configured to receive a barrier fluid having a different pressure than a barrier fluid to be received by an adjacent channel.
US09279422B2 Equipment for rotating a rotor of a peristaltic pump
The invention concerns a peristaltic hose pump and an equipment for the peristaltic hose pump. The pump includes a rotor configured to compress a hose/tube being positioned on the pump cavity inner perimeter. The rotor is coupled to a one end of a crankshaft of the pump body and the pump includes a device to receive an equipment for rotating the rotor manually. The equipment for rotating the rotor includes a connection point that is configured to connect the equipment to the pump. The equipment includes also weight configured to act as a counterbalance to the rotor in order to maintain the position of the rotor.
US09279417B2 Solar power system
A solar power system includes a preheating device for heating first heat transfer fluid and second heat transfer fluid in separate tubes. The preheated second heat transfer fluid is routed to a boiler. The preheated first heat transfer fluid is routed through a plurality of heat sinks each associated with a solar radiation collector concentrator. Vacuum chambers receive the solar radiation from specially designed dishes with hyperparabolic feed antennas and direct energy to the heat sinks transferring the heat energy to first heat transfer fluid routed through the heat sink. The lower half of each chamber extends below each dish and has an interior reflective coating on the interior of the chamber side wall. The heated first heat transfer fluid is routed through a coil within the boiler to heat the second heat transfer fluid within the boiler. The boiler outlet steam is routed through a turbine, in turn, connected to a gearing system and an alternator. An insulative cover for the turbine adds energy efficiency to the system and helps reduce noise.
US09279403B2 Closure bolt for an injector
A closure bolt for an injector of a modular common-rail fuel injection system includes at least one high-pressure port for high-pressure fuel and a bolt-like portion which is configured to be inserted into an opening of the injector and which has a first, preferably conical, sealing surface for closing the opening in a high-pressure-tight manner. The bolt-like portion has a high-pressure bore which is hydraulically connected to the high-pressure port and which issues into the injector. The closure bolt further includes a throughflow limiter configured to limit the flow rate of fuel delivered into the injector. The bolt-like portion has an insert in which the throughflow limiter is formed and which bears the first sealing surface.
US09279392B2 Gaseous engine fuel delivery
A fuel delivery system may be utilized in an internal combustion engine or a generator engine. The fuel delivery system includes a fuel injector and a venturi. The venturi provides a force for delivering the fuel into the manifold of the engine, and the fuel injector provides metering to control the amount of fuel delivered into the manifold of the engine. In one example, the fuel delivery system includes a first chamber configured to enclose a gaseous fuel, a second chamber configured to direct a flow of air through the venturi, and a plunger. The plunger is controlled to selectively connect and disconnect the first chamber and the second chamber to control the flow of the gaseous fuel into the second chamber under a differential pressure of the venturi.
US09279390B2 Accelerator device for a carburetor
In at least one implementation a carburetor includes an intake bore with a port opening into the intake bore, a fuel chamber from which fuel is supplied to the intake bore, and an accelerator device including a fuel reservoir. A fuel flow control valve is provided between the fuel chamber and the port to control the flow rate of fuel to the port and at least one passage communicates the fuel reservoir with the port and fuel in the fuel reservoir is supplied to the port therethrough. The passage also communicates the fuel reservoir with the fuel chamber. The fuel flow control valve is located between the fuel reservoir and the port and between the fuel chamber and the port, and the passage includes a portion extending between the fuel reservoir and the fuel chamber independently of the fuel flow control valve.
US09279386B2 Jet noise reduction using eduction effect
An exhaust duct through which an exhaust gas jet from a gas turbine engine flows comprises a duct wall, an inlet, an outlet and an eductor. The inlet, through which the exhaust gas jet enters the exhaust duct, is positioned at an upstream end of the exhaust duct. The outlet, through which the exhaust gas jet exits the exhaust duct, is positioned at a downstream end of the exhaust duct. The eductor is positioned proximate the downstream end. In one embodiment, the eductor comprises a perforated wall segment of the duct wall through which ambient air from outside of the duct wall is permitted to enter the exhaust duct. In yet another embodiment, the eductor is diverging.
US09279382B2 Vehicle and control method of vehicle
A vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, an air-fuel ratio sensor provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine, and a controller. The controller is configured to diagnose a responsiveness of the air-fuel ratio sensor on the basis of an output voltage of the air-fuel ratio sensor in a predefined period. The period is a period over which exhaust gas goes through the air-fuel ratio sensor during the internal combustion engine is rotating without fuel injection.
US09279374B2 Methods and systems for surge control
Methods and systems are provided for recirculating compressed air across a compressor through a high flow and a low flow compressor recirculation path. Flow through the recirculation paths is controlled via respective valves and valve opening is adjusted based on a throttle mass flow so as to maintain a compressor flow rate at or above a surge constrained flow rate. By maintaining a sufficiently high compressor flow rate during steady state and transient conditions, the compressor state can be maintained outside a surge region.
US09279373B2 Vapor purging octane separation system
A method for controlling an engine supplied with multiple fuels in which the vapor purge flow into the engine from multiple vapor storage devices each coupled to a respective, but equal number of multiple fuel tanks controlled to have the same proportion of total vapors purged as a proportion of liquid fuel delivered to the engine from said respective one of the said multiple fuel tanks. The method includes increasing the delivery of fuel from one of the multiple fuel tanks containing fuel with the highest-octane rating of all the fuel tanks when the vapor storage canister coupled to the fuel tank with the highest-octane fuel is not being purged of its fuel vapors. Additionally, the method further comprises a feedback control responsive to an exhaust gas oxygen sensor to adjust said fuel delivered from said multiple fuel tanks to the engine to maintain engine air-fuel ratio around stoichiometry.
US09279371B2 System and method for monitoring an engine and limiting cylinder air charge
Methods and systems for monitoring an internal combustion engine are disclosed. In one example, output of a temperature sensor is converted into a fuel pressure variable to determine if fuel system components are operating as desired and cylinder air charge may be limited if degradation is determined. The methods and systems may reduce fuel system cost while also providing redundant system data.
US09279366B1 Steam powered engine
A rotary engine and method having a housing with a bore defining a cavity. A rotatable rotor in the cavity has a plurality of protuberant lobes with respective distal ends moving along the bore. Each of a plurality of vanes has a distal end biased to engage a perimeter of the rotor. The rotor rotates between neutral rotor positions where all of the lobes are simultaneously rotationally aligned with the vanes, and a plurality of different power stroke rotor positions between consecutive neutral rotor positions incrementally increasing in size a like plurality of volumetrically equivalent working fluid expansion chambers that are each in fluid communication with a respective working fluid inlet intersecting the bore and, in turn, incrementally decreasing in size a like plurality of volumetrically equivalent working fluid exhaust chambers each in continuous fluid communication with a respective working fluid outlet intersecting the bore.
US09279362B2 Method for determining the rate of recirculated exhaust gas at the inlet of a cylinder of an internal combustion engine, and engine implementing such a method
A method determining a rate of recirculated exhaust gas (EGR rate) at an inlet of a cylinder of an internal combustion engine at a moment t, the exhaust gas being conveyed in a recirculation duct connecting an exhaust line of the engine to an intake line, and the EGR rate being equal to the ratio between flow rate of the recirculated gas and total gas flow rate in the intake line at a location of the intake line in question and at the moment in question. The method: a) determines at which moment t_intro preceding the moment t the gas, having arrived at the inlet of the cylinder at moment t, was fed into the intake line; b) determines the EGR rate at an outlet of the recirculation line to the intake line at the moment t_intro; and c) determines the EGR rate at the inlet to the cylinder at moment t based on the EGR rate at the outlet of the recirculation line to the intake line at moment t_intro, as determined in b).
US09279359B2 Piston cooling apparatus
A piston cooling apparatus includes: a main body including a communication passage communicating with an oil path formed in an internal combustion engine; a nozzle pipe portion including an oil injection port configured to inject oil having passed through the communication passage toward a piston; and a filter disposed upstream of the nozzle pipe portion on the flow passage of the oil and including a hole having a smaller diameter than the minimum diameter of the oil injection port, the oil being injected toward the piston from the oil injection port, wherein: the filter is removably mounted on the outer surface of the outer wall portion of the main body existing upstream on the oil flow passage; and the main body is mounted on the internal combustion engine in a state where at least a portion of the filter is inserted into the oil path.
US09279356B2 Honeycomb structure and manufacturing method of the same
A honeycomb structure includes a tubular honeycomb structure body having porous partition walls to define and form a plurality of cells and an outer peripheral wall, and a pair of electrodes disposed on a side surface of the honeycomb structure body. An electrical resistivity of the honeycomb structure body is from 1 to 200 Ωcm, each of the pair of electrodes is formed into a band-like shape extending in an extending direction of the cells of the honeycomb structure body, one electrode in the pair of electrodes is disposed on a side opposite to the other electrode in the pair of electrodes via a center of the honeycomb structure body, the honeycomb structure body is constituted of an outer peripheral region and a central region, and an electrical resistivity of a material constituting the outer peripheral region is lower than an electrical resistivity of a material constituting the central region.
US09279354B2 Control unit for urea-water adding device
A heating-controller controls an electric power supply from a battery to a urea-water heater based on a voltage of the battery detected by a voltage detector and an engine-state of an internal combustion engine obtained by an engine-state detector. When a voltage of the battery is low or when the internal combustion engine stops, the heating-controller prohibits the electric power supply from the battery to the urea-water heater. A urea-water adding device can avoid an excess decrease of a battery power by intermittently energizing the urea-water heater according to the engine-state of an internal combustion engine and the battery voltage VB.
US09279348B2 Mechanically controllable valve drive for a reciprocating piston engine
A mechanically controllable valve drive for a reciprocating piston engine configured to adjust a gas exchange valve includes the gas exchange valve, a cam assembly comprising a camshaft and at least one cam for the gas exchange valve, a valve, a valve lift adjustment assembly, a drag lift assembly, and a device. The valve lift adjustment assembly comprises a valve lift adjustment device, and an intermediate lever assembly comprising at least one intermediate lever comprising a working curve comprising curve portions. The valve lift adjustment assembly is configured to shift the valve between a zero lift and a maximum lift. The drag lever assembly is operatively connected to the working curve. The device is configured to provide a valve-lift standstill range so that, in a maximum lift position, the valve is opened for a turning angle ω of the camshaft with a flattened valve lift height.
US09279339B2 Turbine engine temperature control system with heating element for a gas turbine engine
A turbine engine temperature control system configured to limit thermal gradients from being created within an outer casing surrounding a turbine airfoil assembly during shutdown of a gas turbine engine and for preheating an engine during a cold startup is disclosed. By reducing thermal gradients caused by hot air buoyancy within the mid-region cavities in the outer casing, arched and sway-back bending of the outer casing is prevented, thereby reducing the likelihood of blade tip rub, and potential blade damage, during a warm restart. The turbine engine temperature control system may also be used for cold startup conditions to heat engine components such that gaps between turbine airfoil tips and adjacent blade rings can be made larger from thermal expansion, thereby reducing the risk of damage. The turbine engine temperature control system may operate during turning gear system operation after shutdown of the gas turbine engine or during a cold startup.
US09279336B2 High temperature split-face probe
An example split-face probe includes a sensor component having a split-face, a housing arranged about the sensor component, and at least one ceramic fitting that supports the sensor component.
US09279332B2 Turbine damper
A damper for a turbine rotor assembly of a gas turbine engine includes a width dimension, a height dimension, and a length dimension, and includes a forward plate and an aft plate. The aft plate is larger than the forward plate along the width and height dimensions and includes an upper portion, which has a non-symmetric configuration and extends in the height dimension. The damper further includes a longitudinal structure extending in the length dimension and connecting the forward plate and the aft plate.
US09279330B2 Gas turbine engine component with converging/diverging cooling passage
A component for a gas turbine engine includes a gas path wall having a first surface and a second surface and a cooling hole extending through the gas path wall from the first surface to the second surface. The cooling hole includes an inlet portion having an inlet at the first surface, an outlet portion having an outlet at the second surface, and a transition defined between the inlet and the outlet. The inlet portion converges in a first direction from the inlet to the transition and diverges in a second direction from the inlet to the transition. The outlet portion diverges at least in one of the first and second directions from the transition to the outlet.
US09279328B2 Airfoil devices, leading edge components, and methods of making
In a method of making a leading edge component for an airfoil device, a first elongate sheet is provided and has a shape substantially conforming to a surface on one of a suction side or a pressure side of an airfoil. A second elongate sheet is provided and has a shape substantially conforming to a surface on the other of the suction side or the pressure side of the airfoil. The elongate sheets can be welded together at least along respective elongate edges thereof, in such a way as to form a leading edge base structure comprising a weld extending the length of the elongate sheets. Material deposits can be provided onto an outer surface of the leading edge base structure in such a way as to substantially cover the weld, whereby the leading edge component is formed.
US09279320B2 Downhole tool housing
A housing (15) for connection to a downhole assembly (17), the housing comprising first and second sections (31, 32), the first section (31) being adapted for connection to a portion of the downhole assembly, the second section (32) defining a compartment (23) to receive a downhole tool (11) or component thereof, the second section (32) being configured to provide a path (40) for fluid flow past the compartment (23) as the assembly descends within the borehole, and the first section (31) being configured for fluid communication between a passage in said portion of the downhole assembly and the fluid flow path (40).
US09279311B2 System, assembly and method for port control
A port control system including a group of port control assemblies at least one of which delaying passage of a plug and at least one of which preventing passage of a plug, each assembly of the group configured to shift a sleeve to open one or more ports responsive to contact with a same sized plug upon fluid pressure differential across the plug; and at least one second group of port control assemblies at least one of which delaying passage of a plug and at least one of which preventing passage of a plug, each assembly of the group configured to shift a sleeve to open one or more ports responsive to contact with a same sized plug upon fluid pressure differential across the plug. A method is included.
US09279298B2 Well control systems and methods
A well control method can include removing from a wellbore an undesired influx from a formation into the wellbore, determining a desired pressure profile in real time with a hydraulics model, and automatically operating a flow choking device while removing the undesired influx from the wellbore, thereby influencing an actual pressure profile toward the desired pressure profile. Another well control method can include removing out of a wellbore an undesired influx from a formation into the wellbore, determining a desired wellbore pressure with a hydraulics model, the desired wellbore pressure preventing further influx into the wellbore while removing the undesired influx from the wellbore, and automatically operating a flow choking device while removing the undesired influx from the wellbore, thereby influencing an actual wellbore pressure toward the desired wellbore pressure.
US09279296B2 Injector head
An injector head for feeding a tool string support member downhole is described. The injector head includes a first gripping device and a second gripping device. The first and second gripping devices are adapted to grip a tool string support member passing through an injector head passageway. The injector head further includes an actuator movable between a first position and a second position wherein, movement of the actuator between the first and second positions moves at least a portion of both of the first and second gripping devices towards or away from a passageway longitudinal axis.
US09279293B2 Drill bit with extendable gauge pads
A drilling system that includes a bit body that has a longitudinal axis, a blade of a selected length on a side of the bit body and substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a movable member associated with the blade that extends from a retracted position to a selected extended position along the longitudinal axis, thereby effectively extending the length of the blade when the movable member is in the selected extended position.
US09279287B2 Overhead door with lintel seal interface assembly
An overhead coiling door which includes a lintel seal interface assembly comprising a mounting bracket and a seal material sandwiched between a top and bottom row of brush bristles. The top row of bristles is shorter than the bottom row which provides relative rigidity to the flexible seal material and maintains greater cycle life. Further described are novel insulating material placement used to seal the building structure—door gaps. In one preferred design, a hinged guide cover has a first leg geometry to engage the structure and a second leg geometry to engage the curtain guide assembly to effectively seal gaps created by various amounts of curtain guide assembly setback.
US09279286B2 Methods and systems for mechanically operating a group of shades or blinds
A shade system includes a plurality of shade assemblies each including an elongated shade tube having an inner surface defining an inner cavity, an outer surface for winding receipt of a flexible shade, at least one coupling end, and an axis of rotation; a connector assembly having a first coupling unit secured to the inner surface at the coupling end of a first shade tube and a second coupling unit secured to the inner surface at the coupling end of a second shade tube substantially adjacent the first shade tube, the first coupling unit and the second coupling unit cooperating to transfer an applied torque from the first shade tube to the second shade tube; an end bracket for rotatably supporting a free end portion of a shade tube when attached to a supporting structure; and a mounting bracket for adjusting the connector assembly.
US09279284B1 Foot operated pet gate
A pet gate and method of operating thereof. The gate including a frame including first and second vertical side members; a door pivotally mounted to the second vertical side member. The door includes a pole extending between upper and a lower door crossbars, wherein the door pivots between an open position and a closed position. A foot actuator is mounted to the door and is vertically slidable between a raised position and a lowered position. A first channel in the foot actuator aligns with the pole and receives a drive that passes through the pole. The drive is raise-able by the foot actuator. A retractable bar is slidably provided in the upper door crossbar. The drive engages the retractable bar when the drive is raised. An upper retracting pin extends from the retractable bar and is receivable in a upper catch provided in the first vertical member.
US09279275B2 Outside handle for vehicle
An outside handle apparatus for a vehicle may include a handle grip including a first locking part, a handle base, a handle lever having a second locking part and rotatably supported by an axis of the handle lever at one side of the handle base and moving in linkage with the handle grip while the second locking part formed at an lower end of the handle lever is locked with the first locking part of the handle grip, and an interference lever pivotally coupled to the handle base at one side of the handle base, wherein the interference lever rotates in linkage with a rotation of the handle lever at ordinary times, and is interlocked with the handle lever due to a rotation of the handle lever upon crash to control the rotation of the handle lever.
US09279271B2 Connected fence for collecting rain water
Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a water collecting fence for collecting, storing, and dispensing rain water. The fence may include a plurality of water containing fence sections, each section being connected to at least one adjacent section by a connector hose. Each section may include a water containing shell. The shell may have an interior defined by a top surface, a bottom surface, a pair of panel sides, and a pair of side surfaces; a fill hole and a vent hole each positioned on the top surface; a post extending downwardly from the shell, the post configured to secure the shell into a ground surface; a lower orifice proximate to the bottom surface; a lower plug or a hose attachment configured to engage with the lower orifice. At least one of the sections may be configured to engage with a gutter downspout from a building.
US09279269B2 Canopy shelter brackets
A canopy shelter bracket for increased structural integrity. The canopy shelter bracket can include an inner portion, an intermediate portion, a first outer portion, and a second outer portion integrally connected to form a generally “F” shape or an “S” shape. The inner portion, first outer portion, and/or the second outer portion can include holes for receiving a fastener therethrough to fasten the brackets to cross members. A single fastener can be used to fasten multiple cross members to the bracket. The first and/or second outer portions can additionally serve to space apart a first cross member from a second cross member.
US09279263B2 Sequenced chamber wave generator apparatus and method
A wave generating apparatus and method is provided in which a controller actuates a plurality of wave generating chambers in sequence using a delay between actuation of each chamber to produce a rideable wave in a pool. The actuation delay period may be a predetermined proportion of the chamber period. The sequence creates a surging motion in the pool that changes the characteristics of the waves to create a considerably hollow barreling wave. The flow of water created by a sequence may resemble a diamond pattern and additional patterns may resemble diamonds linked at the vertices. This pattern effectively reduces the depth of the water between successive waves, which causes them to pitch away from the chambers and create a considerably hollow barrel.
US09279261B2 Method for manufacturing a formwork element
A method for manufacturing a formwork element 10 for concrete structures, uses a formwork element having a base body 12 of hollow profile construction with an outer side 14 designed as a form lining. The base body 12 is formed by at least two interlocking sub-segments which are permanently connected to one another at their interlocking edge areas. The sub-segments, such as edge segment and intermediate segment 16, 18, which are advantageously produced through extrusion, are hooked to one another to form an inseparable unit in the connected state.
US09279254B2 Anchor arrangement
Systems and methods are provided for securing ends of tendons in an anchor housing. Tendons having open or expanded sections are inserted through a cylindrical surface of the anchor housing. The tendons are secured in the anchor housing by grout which cooperates with the open or expanded sections and irregularities formed on the interior surface of the anchor housing.
US09279251B2 Mounting hardware and mounting system for vertical panels
A mounting clip and a system for mounting a vertical panel from a support member suspended from a ceiling. The mounting clip has a panel mounting section, a support member receiving portion, and a movable mounting section. The support member receiving portion extends from the panel mounting section. The movable mounting section can be rotated relative to the support member receiving portion to secure the mounting clip to the support member.
US09279249B2 Corner studs and manufacturing method
A corner stud (50) has intersecting first and second walls (52, 54) that back up corner edge portions of wallboard panels (40, 42) that meet at the inside corner. The walls (52, 54) are braced by walls (64, 70) and flanges (76, 78). Wall (52) and wall (70) may be parallel to each other and to flange (76). Wall (54) and wall (64) may be parallel to each other and flange (78). The stud (50, 52, 200, 202) may have a web bent about a longitudinal axis to form web parts separated by an inside angle (a). The angle a may be an obtuse angle below one hundred eighty degrees (180°) to about two hundred seventy degrees (270°).
US09279248B2 Cover panel seismic expansion joint
A seismic expansion joint cover assembly installed at an expansion gap between a first structural member on one side of a gap and a second member on the opposite side of the gap includes a cover panel bridging the gap having at least one hinged connector joining one edge of the cover panel to the first structural component to allow movement about an axis. The assembly includes at least one slide support which attaches to the second member, including an attachment flange, a track extending from the flange, and a lift component located on the track to lift the cover panel. A spring assembly attaches to the cover panel and engages the track and includes a spring plate with one or more springs attached thereto, a guide component attached to the spring plate and a saddle component having a grove to receive the guide component.
US09279220B1 Adjustable crane rail brace
An adjustable crane rail brace that provides for lateral movement of a crane rail having a rail base resting upon a tie plate. The brace includes a block mounted to the tie plate and a wedge interposed between the block and the rail base. The wedge is slidable longitudinally with respect to the rail base. The block is mounted at an acute angle with respect to the lateral edge of the rail base, and the wedge has sides at this acute angle with respect to each other. The wedge also has a first serrated portion. The brace includes a member having a top face and having a second serrated portion. The first and second serrated portions are in frictional engagement, and the member has a resilient nose extending downwardly in contact with the rail base. The brace further has a spring for exerting downward force upon the top face.
US09279217B2 Method for making of paper, tissue, board or the like
The invention relates to a method for making of paper, tissue, board or the like by using recycled fiber material as a raw material. The method comprises following steps: pulping recycled paper, board or the like in a pulper and obtaining a pulp flow comprising (i) an aqueous phase and (ii) at least recycled fibers and starch having low molecular weight, which are dispersed in the aqueous phase; adding a coagulant agent to the pulp flow or to an aqueous process flow comprising starch having low molecular weight; allowing the coagulant agent to interact with the starch having low molecular weight and optionally forming aggregates; and adding at least one flocculating agent, after the addition of the coagulant agent, to any flow, which comprises interacted coagulant agent, and forming a treated flow with starch comprising agglomerate(s); retaining at least part of the said aggregates and/or the said agglomerates to the fibers or to a web, which is formed.
US09279213B2 Laundry treating appliance with imaging control
A laundry treating appliance having a rotatable drum defining a laundry treating chamber, where the laundry in the laundry treating chamber may be imaged and a motion condition of the laundry determined based on the imaging of the laundry. The operation of the laundry treating appliance may be based on the determined motion condition.
US09279191B2 Pattern forming method
According to one embodiment, a pattern forming method includes forming a graphoepitaxy on a substrate, a process of forming a first self-assembly material layer that contains a first segment and a second segment in a depressed portion of the graphoepitaxy, a process of forming a first self-assembly pattern that has a first region containing the first segment, and a second region containing the second segment by performing a phase separation of the first self-assembly material layer, a process of forming a second self-assembly material layer containing a third segment and a fourth segment on a projected portion of the graphoepitaxy, and the first self-assembly pattern, a process of forming a second self-assembly pattern that has a third region containing the third segment, and a fourth region containing the fourth segment by performing a phase separation of the second self-assembly material layer.
US09279190B2 Method for preparing diamond carbon membrane on surface of stainless steel
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a diamond carbon membrane on a surface of stainless steel, including: immersing the pretreated stainless steel into a solution of a biomass-derived carbonaceous mesophase in ethanol for several minutes, prior to taking out and air drying; or alternatively, spraying the solution of the biomass-derived carbonaceous mesophase in ethanol onto the stainless steel surface, to provide a layer of the biomass-derived carbonaceous mesophase film adhered on the stainless steel surface upon full volatilization of the solution on the surface; and then carrying out thermal treatment under a hydrogen atmosphere, to prepare the diamond carbon membrane on the stainless steel surface. By the preparation process, which is convenient and easy in operation, and low in cost, the diamond carbon membrane can be made on the stainless steel substrate in a complicated shape, which has a high level of diamond phase and is uniform, dense, and firm in bonding with the stainless steel substrate, leading to improvement of corrosion resistance, wearability, rigidity and high temperature resistance of the stainless steel, and being worth expanding in practical application.
US09279189B2 Methods for forming defect-free anodized parts
Manufacturing methods related to anodizing of metal parts are described. In particular, pre-anodizing and post-anodizing methods for forming a consistent and defect-free interface between metal and non-metal sections of a part are described. Methods involve preventing residues from various manufacturing processes from entering a gap or space at the interface between the metal and non-metal section of the part and that can disrupt subsequent anodizing and anodic film dyeing processes. In particular embodiments, methods involve forming a barrier layer or filler layer between the metal and non-metal sections. Portions of the barrier layer or filler layer can be removed prior to anodizing. The resultant part has a well-defined and uniform space between the metal and non-metal sections that is free from visual defects.
US09279186B2 Metal member manufacturing method and metal member
A metallic material containing both a second constituent and a third constituent having positive and negative heats of mixing relative to a first constituent, respectively, and including a compound, an alloy or a nonequilibrium alloy having a melting point that is higher than the solidifying point of a metal bath made of the first constituent is placed in the metal bath. The metal bath is controlled to a temperature lower than a minimum value of a liquidus temperature within a range of compositional variations in which the amount of the third constituent in the metallic material decreases down to a point where the metallic material becomes substantially the second constituent so that the third constituent is selectively dissolved into the metal bath.
US09279180B2 Machine for plasma treatment of containers comprising an integrated vacuum circuit
A machine for plasma treatment of containers, including a chamber for receiving a container to be treated, the chamber connected to a primary vacuum circuit. A pressure sensor is connected to the chamber. There is a first mechanism for communicating the pressure sensor with the chamber; a secondary vacuum circuit dependent on the first circuit and connected to the pressure sensor; and second mechanism for communicating the pressure sensor with the secondary vacuum circuit.
US09279178B2 Manufacturing design and processing methods and apparatus for sputtering targets
Sputtering targets having a reduced burn-in time are disclosed that comprise: a) a heat-modified surface material having a substantially uniform crystallographic orientation, wherein at least part of the surface material was melted during heat-treatment, and b) a core material having an average grain size. Sputtering targets are also disclosed that include a heat-modified surface material having network of shallow trenches, alternating rounded peaks and valleys in the surface of the target or a combination thereof, wherein at least part of the surface material was melted during heat-treatment, and a core material having an average grain size. Methods of producing sputtering targets having reduced burn-in times comprises: a) providing a sputtering target comprising a sputtering surface having a sputter material and a crystal lattice, and b) heat-modifying the sputtering surface in order to melt at least part of the surface material and modify the crystal lattice. Methods of producing a sputtering target having a reduced burn-in time are also disclosed comprising: providing a sputtering target having a sputtering surface, wherein the sputtering surface comprises a damage layer, and modifying the sputtering surface by deplating a layer of material, pulsed-plating a layer of material or a combination thereof.
US09279176B2 Lead wire for solar cell, manufacturing method and storage method thereof, and solar cell
A solar cell lead wire includes a molten solder plated layer on a strip-shaped conductive material formed rectangular in a cross section thereof so as to be bonded by soldering to an electrode of a solar cell, using a flux. A thickness of an oxide film on a surface of the molten solder plated layer, which is a sum of a thickness of an SnO layer and a thickness of an SnO2 layer on the surface of the molten solder plated layer, is not more than 7 nm.
US09279163B2 Cellobiohydrolase enzymes
Provided are isolated cellobiohydrolases comprising a modified Glycoside Hydrolase (GH) Family 7 catalytic domain, a GH Family 7 catalytic domain and a modified Family 1 carbohydrate binding module (CBM), or both a modified Family 7 catalytic domain and a modified Family 1 CBM. Such isolated cellobiohydrolases exhibit from 45% to about 99.9% amino acid sequence identity to amino acids 1-436 of SEQ ID NO: 1 or to amino acids 1-438 of SEQ ID NO: 2 and improved activity on process substrates. Also provided are genetic constructs and genetically modified microbes for expressing the isolated cellobiohydrolases, a process for producing the isolated cellobiohydrolases, cellulase enzyme mixtures comprising the isolated cellobiohydrolase and a process for hydrolyzing a cellulosic substrate with such cellulase enzyme mixtures.
US09279154B2 Apparatus and methods for kinetic analysis and determination of nucleic acid sequences
A method of distinguishing nucleotide sequences for different nucleic acid molecules including the steps of (a) mixing a plurality of different nucleic acid molecules with polymerase molecules and nucleotide molecules, wherein the different nucleic acid molecules are attached to a surface in the form of an array of nucleic acid features; (b) determining a transient state of the polymerase molecules at the nucleic acid features; and (c) identifying a subset of nucleic acid features that correctly incorporate the nucleotide molecules based on the transient state of the polymerase molecules at the nucleic acid features, thereby distinguishing the nucleotide sequences for the different nucleic acid molecules.
US09279151B2 Disposable thermal in-vitro diagnostic apparatus and method of conducting an in-vitro diagnostic test
A portable, disposable in-vitro diagnostic apparatus and method of performing an in-vitro diagnostic test is provided. The apparatus includes a body configured to be hand held. The body has a reaction medium supply chamber configured in selective fluid communication with a reaction chamber via a fluid conveying channel. The reaction chamber is located beneath a sample reaction chamber. The reaction medium supply chamber contains a reaction fluid therein and the reaction chamber contains a thermal reaction medium therein. The reaction fluid is selectively reactive with the thermal reaction medium to produce one of an endothermic or exothermic reaction beneath the sample reaction chamber.
US09279150B2 Mutant endonuclease V enzymes and applications thereof
Provided herein are mutant endonuclease V enzymes that are capable of nicking an inosine-containing DNA sequence. Nucleic acid assays and agents that employ such mutant endonuclease V enzymes to introduce a nick into a target DNA including one or more inosine, and uses a DNA polymerase to generate amplicons of a target DNA are also described.
US09279149B2 Methods and apparatus for synthesizing nucleic acids
The invention provides improved methods for synthesizing polynucleotides, such as DNA and RNA, using enzymes and specially designed nucleotide analogs. Using the methods of the invention, specific sequences of polynucleotides can be synthesized de novo, base by base, in an aqueous environment, without the use of a nucleic acid template. Because the nucleotide analogs have an unmodified 3′ OH, i.e., as found in “natural” deoxyribose and ribose molecules, the analogs result in natural polynucleotides suitable for incorporation into biological systems.
US09279148B2 Detection of nucleic acid reactions on bead arrays
The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for the use of micro sphere arrays to detect and quantify a number of nucleic acid reactions. The invention finds use in genotyping, i.e. the determination of the sequence of nucleic acids, particularly alterations such as nucleotide substitutions (mismatches) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Similarly, the invention finds use in the detection and quantification of a nucleic acid target using a variety of amplification techniques, including both signal amplification and target amplification. The methods and compositions of the invention can be used in nucleic acid sequencing reactions as well. All applications can include the use of adapter sequences to allow for universal arrays.
US09279147B2 Processes for detecting or quantifying analytes of interest
This invention provides novel compositions and processes for analyte detection, quantification and amplification. Nucleic acid arrays and libraries of analytes are usefully incorporated into such compositions and processes. Universal detection elements, signaling entities and the like are employed to detect and if necessary or desirable, to quantify analytes. Amplification of target analytes are also provided by the compositions and processes of this invention.
US09279143B2 Liquid processing system and liquid processing method
A liquid processing system to process liquid biological material includes: a trunk provided turnable on an axis, set within a predetermined work space; a first arm provided to the trunk and having at least three degrees of freedom or higher degrees of freedom; a second arm provided to the trunk and having at least three degrees of freedom or higher degrees of freedom; a driving mechanism configured to drive each of the trunk, the first arm, and the second arm; and physiochemical equipment situated within the work space and within the range of movement of at least one of the first and the second arm. The driving mechanism is operated by teaching playback based on the positions and shapes of the physiochemical equipment, and the biological material is processed using the physiochemical equipment.
US09279142B2 Device and method of taking samples from medical equipment for the purpose of microbiological testing
A device and method for use in taking a sample from an item of medical equipment for the purpose of microbiological testing. The device includes attachment mechanism for attaching about a region of the item of medical equipment in an air-tight manner; and collection mechanism for collecting fluid which emanates from the item of medical equipment.
US09279140B2 Personal care products with visual indicator of vaginitis
There is provided a personal care product having a body side liner, a baffle and an indicator strip with two ends. The indicator has an amine sensitive dye near at least one end. The indicator extends from the target area just below the liner to just above the baffle such that the dye deposit is visible to an unaided eye. The dye changes color in the presence of amines which are characteristic of infection, thus alerting the user to the possibility of infection. Such an indicator placed in a feminine hygiene pad, for example, may be useful in the diagnosis of vaginitis.
US09279132B2 Vectors and sequences for the treatment of diseases
The present invention provides new sequences, gene constructions, vectors and pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of diseases and specially, for the treatment of mucopolysaccharidoses.
US09279130B2 Methods for manufacturing plant cell walls comprising chitin
Methods and means are provided for the modification of the reactivity of plant secondary cell walls, particularly in cotton cell walls found in cotton fibers. This can be conveniently achieved by expressing a chimeric gene encoding a Saprolegnia monoica chitin synthase in cotton plants.
US09279127B2 Adipocyte-specific constructs and methods for inhibiting platelet-type 12 lipoxygenase expression
The present invention is directed to constructs, compositions and methods for modulating platelet-type 12 lipoxygenase (12-LO) in adipose tissue in vivo. Specifically, the invention provides constructs encoding expression-inhibiting oligonucleic acids, e.g., antisense and RNA interfering (RNAi) molecules, targeted to a platelet-type 12-LO gene or a transcript thereof, which are capable of reducing or silencing platelet-type 12-LO expression specifically in adipocytes and pre-adipocytes. Vectors of these constructs (including, but not limited to, viral vectors), compositions of them and methods of using same for the treatment and amelioration of conditions associated with excess fat cell mass and obesity are also provided.
US09279123B2 Method for promoting angiogenesis, vascularization or vessel repair or for inhibiting tumor angiogenesis
The invention relates to a method for influencing the miR-92 expression in a cell, comprising the following steps: (a) providing a cell; and (b1) reducing the miR-92 expression in the cell in order to promote the vascularization or vessel repair by introducing an antisense molecule against miR-92 into the cell, or (b2) increasing the miR-92 expression in the cell for an inhibition of the tumor angiogenesis by introducing a construct into the cell, wherein said construct includes an expressible miR-92 sequence. Furthermore, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition, comprising an agent for reducing the miR-92 activity or expression in a cell in the form of an antisense molecule against miR-92, or an agent for increasing the miR-92 expression in a cell in the form of a construct for expressing miR-92.
US09279119B2 Engineered enzymes with methionine-gamma-lyase enzymes and pharmacological preparations thereof
Methods and composition related to the engineering of a novel protein with methionine-γ-lyase enzyme activity are described. For example, in certain aspects there may be disclosed a modified cystathionine-γ-lyase (CGL) comprising one or more amino acid substitutions and capable of degrading methionine. Furthermore, certain aspects of the invention provide compositions and methods for the treatment of cancer with methionine depletion using the disclosed proteins or nucleic acids.
US09279111B2 Leech hyaluronidase and its application
The present invention provides a novel leech HAase and a method of producing low-molecular-weight HA oligosaccharides using the leech HAase. This invention successfully cloned the first leech HAase gene and provides a method for high-level expression of the leech HAase gene. By controlling the incubation condition, different HA oligosaccharides, particularly HA4, HA6, HA8 and HA10, can be selectively generated using the leech HAase. The large-scale expression of the leech HAase and the enzymatic production of specific HA oligosaccharides are not only useful for the cosmetic, healthcare and the medical industries but also can be a great help to polysaccharides chemical synthesis and cancer research.
US09279097B1 Polymers for industrial laundry detergents
The invention discloses detergent compositions containing acrylic acid polymers, including methacrylic acid/ethyl acrylate polymers. In certain embodiments compositions employ an acrylic acid polymer comprising at least 40 wt-% polymerized residues of acrylic monomers, at least 50 wt-% of at least one surfactant, a solvent, at least one water conditioning polymer, and water. The detergent compositions provide increased soil removal and soil suspension when treating textiles, namely through use of industrial laundering machinery. The detergent compositions and methods of employing the same beneficially clean and prevent redeposition of soils containing high concentrations of oil and metal particulates, as are customary in industrial laundering soils.
US09279092B2 Estolide and lubricant compositions that contain ene and Diels Alder compounds
Provided herein are compositions containing at least one estolide compound and at least one ene and/or Diels Alder compound. In certain embodiments, the addition of at least one ene and/or Diels Alder compound to an estolide-containing composition may improve the cold temperature, viscometric, and/or anti-wear properties of the composition.
US09279089B2 Device for converting a fuel
A device for converting a fuel including solid components, known as a solid fuel, into a gaseous fuel, includes a pyrolysis zone (2) for pyrolyzing solid fuel, having pyrolysis elements that are capable of decomposing the solid fuel into a pyrolysis gas and into a solid pyrolysis residue, known as coke, and a combustion zone (3), which is distinct from the pyrolysis zone (2), for burning the pyrolysis gas and having combustion elements (31, 32, 33). The device also includes elements for circulating pyrolysis gas from the pyrolysis zone (2) to the combustion zone (3), which is surrounded by the pyrolysis zone (2).
US09279084B2 Security device using liquid crystals
The invention generally relates to optically variable devices, methods of preparation and applications or uses therefor. In particular, the invention includes trigger molecules employed as a dopant for a liquid crystal material. The liquid crystal material contains helical elements having a natural twist. The dopant is effective to change the natural twist of the helical elements when the dopant is addressed with incident light. Suitable dopants are selected from binaphthalene and derivatives thereof.
US09279080B2 Mixed halide scintillators
A mixed halide scintillator material including a fluoride is disclosed. The introduction of fluorine reduces the hygroscopicity of halide scintillator materials and facilitates tuning of scintillation properties of the materials.
US09279075B2 Phase change material-containing composition and related products and methods
The present invention provides methods of producing manufactured aggregates and other compositions from an encapsulated PCM slurry, suspension or emulsion by combining a cementitious binder and a adsorbent and/or absorbent with the PCM slurry. The encapsulated PCM-containing composition can be produced in an agglomeration process. The ingredients can also be mixed to form a viscous mass which can be extruded or otherwise formed to produce useful products.
US09279072B2 Polyurethane adhesive having low gross heat of combustion and insulation panels assembled with such adhesives
A polyurethane adhesive having a low gross heat of combustion is used to assemble insulation panels such as mineral wool insulation panels. The polyurethane adhesive contains a polyisocyanate side and a polyol side. The polyol side includes a certain polyether ether polyol and an aromatic polyester diol. The mixture of these polyols provides excellent adhesion together with suitably low viscosities, even at high filler levels, and a cured adhesive that has a low gross heat of combustion.
US09279068B2 Optical bonding apparatus, touch sensitive display using the same and method of making the same
The present invention discloses an optical bonding apparatus, including: a first bonding layer; a second bonding layer; and a dismountable bonding layer superposed between the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer. The present invention also discloses a touch sensitive display using the optical bonding apparatus and a method of making the optical bonding apparatus.
US09279064B2 Manufacturing semiconductor device with film for forming protective layer
The present invention aims to provide a film for forming a protective layer that is capable of preventing cracks in a low dielectric material layer of a semiconductor wafer while suppressing an increase in the number of steps in the manufacture of a semiconductor device. This object is achieved by a film for forming a protective layer on a bumped wafer in which a low dielectric material layer is formed, including a support base, an adhesive layer, and a thermosetting resin layer, laminated in this order, wherein the melt viscosity of the thermosetting resin layer is 1×102 Pa·S or more and 2×104 Pa·S or less, and the shear modulus of the adhesive layer is 1×103 Pa or more and 2×106 Pa or less, when the thermosetting resin layer has a temperature in a range of 50 to 120° C.
US09279061B2 Phase change ink with compostable wax
Disclosed is a phase change ink comprising: (a) an ink carrier comprising a compostable paraffin or polymethylene wax; and (b) a colorant.
US09279058B2 Digital embossing
A method of forming a digital embossing (17) on a surface (2) by bonding hard press particles (67) to a carrier (68). A liquid binder pattern (P) is applied on the carrier by a digital drop application head. Hard press particles (67) are applied on the carrier (68) and the binder pattern such that some hard press particles are bonded to the carrier (68) by the liquid pattern and non-bonded press particles (67) are removed. The carrier (68) with the bonded hard press particles (67) is pressed to the surface (2) and an embossing is formed when the carrier (68) with the hard press particles (67) is removed.
US09279057B2 Thermally curable solder-resistant ink and method of making the same
A method of making a thermally curable solder-resistant ink, which comprises the following steps: polymerizing an aliphatic diamine monomer having a long carbon chain, an aromatic dianhydride monomer, an aromatic diamine monomer having a carboxylic acid group, and an anhydride monomer having a carboxylic acid group in an aprotic solvent to obtain a polyamine acid; cyclizing the polyamine acid to obtain a polyimide; and mixing the polyimide and a curing agent to obtain the thermally curable solder-resistant ink. By the steps mentioned above, the thermally curable solder-resistant ink made from the method has a dielectric constant less than 3.00 and a dielectric loss less than 0.01 and thereby is applicable to high frequency electronic equipments. Also, the thermally curable solder-resistant ink has good electrical properties, folding endurance, solder resistance, warpage resistance, flame resistance, acid endurance, alkali endurance, good solvent resistance and low water absorption.
US09279044B2 Rubber composition with multiple reinforcing resins
A tire component comprising a rubber composition having a highly unsaturated diene elastomer and a reinforcing filler with a first methylene acceptor selected from 3-hydroxydiphenylamine, 4-hydroxydiphenylamine or combinations thereof; a second methylene acceptor selected from a Novolac resin, diphenylolmethane, diphenylolethane diphenylolpropane, diphenylolbutane, a naphthol, a cresol or combinations thereof and a methylene donor. A method for manufacturing a tire component includes mixing together components of a rubber composition into a non-productive mix, the components including a highly unsaturated diene elastomer, a reinforcing filler, a first methylene acceptor selected from 3-hydroxydiphenylamine, 4-hydroxydiphenylamine or combinations thereof and a second methylene acceptor selected from a Novolac resin, diphenylolmethane, diphenylolethane diphenylolpropane, diphenylolbutane, a naphthol, a cresol or combinations thereof; and mixing a methylene donor and a vulcanizing agent into the non-productive mix to convert the non-productive mix to a productive mix.
US09279043B2 Self-healing agent formulations containing liquid corrosion inhibitors
Disclosed herein are self-healing systems that include corrosion inhibitors and self-healing materials that are capable of repairing themselves without any external intervention when they are damaged. The self-healing materials and corrosion inhibitors may be microencapsulated, and damage to a matrix containing the microcapsules may rupture the microcapsules and cause the self-healing materials and corrosion inhibitors to be released into the site of damage. The self-healing materials then may polymerize and restore the functional capabilities of the matrix, and the corrosion inhibitors may work in concert with the self healing materials to prevent corrosion at the site of damage.
US09279036B1 Polyamideimide precursor composition, polyamideimide molded article, and method for preparing polyamideimide molded article
A polyamideimide precursor composition includes a resin having repeating units represented by the following formula (PA) and a solvent including water, wherein the resin is dissolved in the solvent: wherein RA1 represents a divalent organic group and RA2 represents a divalent organic group.
US09279035B2 Copolymers with perfluoropolyether segment and multiple aminooxalylamino groups
Copolymers containing at least one perfluoropolyether segment and multiple aminooxalylamino groups are described. Methods of making the copolymers are also described. The copolymers can be prepared by reacting an oxalylamino-containing compound and an amine compound having at least two primary amino groups, at least two secondary amino groups, or at least one primary amino group plus at least one secondary amino group.
US09279033B2 Polyester resin and method for preparing the same
There is provided a polyester resin including: moieties of dicarboxylic acid components including terephthalic acid; and moieties of diol components including 5 to 60 mole % of isosorbide, 10 to 80 mole % of a cyclohexanedimethanol, and the balance of other diol compounds, wherein the polyester resin has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.5 to 1.0 dl/g, and a melt viscosity of the polyester resin measured at a temperature of 280° C. and at a shear rate of 300 rad/s is at least 50% lower than that measured at a temperature of 280° C. and a shear rate of 1 rad/s, and there is also provided a method for preparing the polyester resin, including: esterifying diol components including 5 to 60 mole % of isosorbide, 10 to 80 mole % of a cyclohexanedimethanol, and the balance of other diol compounds, with dicarboxylic acid components including terephthalic acid in the presence of an esterification reaction catalyst including a zinc compound; adding a phosphorus-based stabilizer to the esterification reaction mixture at the time when the degree of esterification reaches at least 80%; and subjecting the esterification reaction product to polycondensation.
US09279027B1 Photoacid generator compound, polymer comprising end groups containing the photoacid generator compound, and method of making
A compound has formula (I): wherein in formula (I), Z is a y valent C1-20 organic group, A1 and A2 are each independently ester containing or non-ester containing and are fluorinated or non-fluorinated, and are independently C1-40 alkylene, C3-40 cycloalkylene, C6-40 arylene, or C7-40 aralkylene, and A1 contains a nitrile, ester, or aryl substituent group alpha to the point of attachment with sulfur, L is a heteroatom or a single bond, X1 is a single bond, —O—, —S—, —C(═O)—O—, —O—C(═O)—, —O—C(═O)—O—, —C(═O)—NR—, —NR—C(═O)—, —NR—C(═O)—NR—, —S(═O)2—O—, —O—S(═O)2—O—, —NR—S(═O)2—, or —S(═O)2—NR, wherein R is H, C1-10 alkyl, C3-10 cycloalkyl or C6-10 aryl, Q− is an anionic group, G+ is a metallic or non-metallic cation, and y is an integer from 1 to 6. A polymer having end groups comprising the reaction product of the compound of formula (I), and a method of making a polymer, are also disclosed.
US09279020B2 Inotropic antibodies and therapeutic uses thereof
Antibodies binding to sites on the alpha-subunit of the (Na++K+)-ATPase increase cardiac contraction of both ventricular myocytes and mouse heart. In particular, antibodies binding to the RSATEEEPPNDD (SEQ ID NO: 1) or DVEDSYGQQWTYEQR (SEQ ID NO: 2) peptides (or isoforms/derivatives thereof) of the alpha-subunit of the (Na++K+)-ATPase, have been found to be highly inotropic. Both the antibodies and the peptides are important for the treatment of human heart failure and other contractile disorders.
US09279019B2 Human monoclonal antibodies specific for CD22
Disclosed herein are isolated human monoclonal antibodies that specifically bind human CD22 with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 25 nM or less. Nucleic acids encoding these antibodies, expression vectors including these nucleic acid molecules, and isolated host cells that express the nucleic acid molecules are also disclosed. The antibodies can be used to detect human CD22 in a sample. In some cases, CD22 is soluble CD22. Methods of diagnosing a B-cell malignancy, or confirming a B-cell malignancy diagnosis, are disclosed herein that utilize these antibodies. Methods of treating a subject with a B-cell malignancy are also disclosed.
US09279017B2 Preparation of scFv antibody fragments
The invention relates to methods of preparing antibody fragments. The invention further relates to antibody fragments prepared by these methods. The invention further relates to antibody variable regions comprised in antibody fragments producible by these methods.
US09279016B2 Methods for identifying antibodies with reduced immunogenicity
The disclosure describes methods of identifying a variant of a reference antibody with reduced immunogenicity as compared to the reference antibody. The disclosure further describes variants of a reference anti-TNF-α antibody having reduced immunogenicity as compared to the reference anti-TNF-α reference antibody.
US09279008B2 Isolated B7-H4 specific compositions and methods of use thereof
The present invention relates to B7-H4-specific compositions and methods of use thereof.
US09279002B2 Immunotherapy and diagnosis of mucormycosis using CotH
The invention provided Mucorales CotH polypeptides and encoding nucleic acid molecules. The Mucorales CotH polypeptides and encoding nucleic acids can be advantageously used to diagnose, treat or prevent fungal conditions, in particular mucormycosis.
US09279001B2 Injection paradigm for administration of botulinum toxins
Disorders such as headaches can be treated by administration of a botulinum toxin to a patient suffering therefrom, such as a migraine headache. A combined a fixed site/fixed dose and an optional follow the pain variable dosage and injection site paradigm is disclosed for optimizing clinical effectiveness of botulinum toxin administration for patients suffering headache, particularly chronic migraine.
US09278999B2 Influenza C virus and vaccine
A novel influenza C virus with only low homology to any influenza C virus previously characterized. Challenge studies show that the virus can infect pigs and be transmitted between pigs. Additionally, influenza C is commonly thought of as a human pathogen and serological studies have been performed, looking at the incidence of antibodies against this virus in both pigs and humans. Approximately 10% of pigs and 30% of humans have antibodies to this virus. Additional experimental data show that the virus can infect and transmit in ferrets (a surrogate for human infection studies). In a third aspect, the present invention is the partial genome of this novel influenza C virus. In another aspect, the present invention is a method of detection in animals of this novel influenza C virus.
US09278997B2 Processes for the manufacture of macrocyclic depsipeptides and new intermediates
The invention relates to a method or process for the chemical manufacture of depsipeptides of the formula I, wherein the symbols have the meaning defined in the description, to new intermediates and their manufacture, as well as related invention embodiments.
US09278993B2 Cell-targeting nanoparticles and uses thereof
The invention generally refers to a cell-targeting nanoparticle, wherein the cell-targeting nanoparticle is directly conjugated to at least one cysteine-containing peptide, wherein the cysteine-containing peptide is selected from the group consisting of glutathione (GSM, a GSH-containing peptide, and a peptide comprising a nuclear localization signal (NLS) sequence and a transporter sequence, and methods of using the cell-targeting nanoparticle.
US09278992B2 Function-selective vitamin D receptor agonist
The present invention provides a VDR ligand which does not induce hypercalcemia that is an adverse reaction of a vitamin D3 preparation; and a composition which comprises lithocholic acid propionate, a salt thereof, a solvate thereof, or a prodrug thereof.
US09278990B2 Substituted nucleotide analogs
Disclosed herein are phosphorothioate nucleotide analogs, such as thiophosphoramidate prodrugs and thiohosphates (including α-thiomonophosphates, α-thiodiphosphates, and α-thiotriphosphates), methods of synthesizing phosphorothioate nucleotide analogs, such as thiophosphoramidate prodrugs and thiophosphates, and methods of treating viral infections such as HCV, with the phosphorothioate nucleotide analogs, such as thiophosphoramidate prodrugs and thiophosphates.
US09278985B2 4-amino-6-(heterocyclic)picolinates and 6-amino-2-(heterocyclic)pyrimidine-4-carboxylates and their use as herbicides
4-Amino-6-(heterocyclic)picolinic acids and their derivatives; 6-amino-2-(heterocyclic)pyrimidine-4-carboxylates and their derivatives; and methods of using the same as herbicides.
US09278978B2 6-Alkynyl Pyridine
This invention relates to 6-alkynyl-pyridine of general formula (I) their use as SMAC mimetics, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use as a medicaments for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases characterized by excessive or abnormal cell proliferation and associated conditions such as cancer. The groups R1 to R5 have the meanings given in the claims and in the specification.
US09278977B2 Process for manufacturing 5-chloromethyl-2,3-pyridine dicarboxylic acid anhydrides
A process for manufacturing 5-chloromethyl-2,3-pyridine dicarboxylic acid anhydrides (I) wherein Z is hydrogen or halogen; Z1 is hydrogen, halogen, cyano or nitro; comprising the steps of (i) reacting a compound of formula (II), wherein the symbols have the meaning given in formula (I), with a chlorinating agent, optionally in the presence of a radical initiator in a solvent selected from halogenated hydrocarbons, and (ii) crystallizing the compound (I) formed in step (i) from a solvent selected from chlorobenzene, 1,2-dichlorobenzene, 1,3-dichlorobenzene, 1,4-dichlorobenzene, dichloroethane, trichloromethane, dichloromethane, toluene, xylenes, ethyl acetate, methyl tert.-butyl ether, and mixtures thereof. Compounds (I) are useful intermediates in the synthesis of herbicidal imidazolinones.
US09278970B2 Co-crystals of tadalafil and a hydroxy-substituted benzoic acid coformer as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors
The present invention relates to co-crystals of tadalafil with hydroxyl-substituted benzoic acid coformers having the following structure. Said co-crystals can be used to produce a pharmaceutical composition containing the same as the useful active ingredient. Said co-crystals can exhibit a constant storage stability.
US09278965B2 Bridged and fused antidiabetic compounds
This invention provides for certain bridged and fused compounds of the formula G-L-A  I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester of solvate thereof wherein: A is and the other variables are defined herein; the inventive compounds are agonists of the G-protein coupled receptor 40 (GPR40, also known as free fatty acid receptor FFAR). This invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and the use of these compounds to regulate insulin levels in a mammal. The compounds may be used, for example in the prevention and treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and in the prevention and treatment of conditions related to Type 2 diabetes mellitus, such as insulin resistance, obesity and lipid disorders.
US09278950B2 Bicyclic aromatic carboxamide compounds useful as Pim kinase inhibitors
The present disclosure describes bicyclic aromatic carboxamide derivatives, as well as their compositions and methods of use. The compounds inhibit the activity of the Pim kinases, and are useful in the treatment of diseases related to the activity of Pim kinases including, e.g., cancer and other diseases.
US09278946B2 Small molecule catalyst for 5-hydroxymethylfurfural production from saccharides
The disclosure provides the use of aryl or heteroaryl boronic acid in the preparation of 5-(hydroxymethyl)fufural (HMF) from saccharides. The aryl or heteroaryl boronic bearing electron-withdrawing groups on the aryl or heteroaryl ring of the boronic acid provided good yields. The disclosure provides a method for preparing HMF from saccharides in the presence of aryl or heteroaryl boronic acid. The disclosure provides a method for converting a saccharide other than fructose in fructose via a dehydrogenation reaction catalyzed by aryl or heteroaryl boronic acid.
US09278944B2 Nitrogen-containing saturated heterocyclic compound
The present invention provides a nitrogen-containing saturated heterocyclic compound of the formula [I]: wherein R1 is a cycloalkyl group and the like, R22 is an optionally substituted aryl and the like, R is a lower alkyl and the like, T is a carbonyl group, Z is —O— and the like, and R3 to R6 are the same or different and a hydrogen atom and the like; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, that is useful as a renin inhibitor.
US09278942B2 Non-steroidal compounds as androgen receptor modulators
This invention relates to novel 4,5-dihydroisoxazoles and 4,5-dihydro[1,2,4]-oxadiazoles of formula (I), to their use as androgenic or antiandrogenic agents or androgen receptor modulators, and to methods of their preparation.
US09278937B2 Substituted 2-imidazolidinones and 2-imidazolones and their use in the treatment of cancer
Compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, R4, R8, X and Y as defined herein are provided as useful for the inhibition of certain types of cancer cells, amongst others, breast cancer cells, or for the manufacture of anti-cancer agents.
US09278934B2 Method for producing fine particles of aripiprazole anhydride crystals B
The present invention provides a novel method for producing fine particles of aripiprazole anhydride crystals B. The method for producing fine particles of aripiprazole anhydride crystals B comprises the steps of: (1) heating and dissolving crude aripiprazole in a lower alcohol, and subsequently cooling the resulting mixture to precipitate crystals to obtain crystals of aripiprazole lower alcohol solvate; (2) subjecting the crystals of aripiprazole lower alcohol solvate to wet-milling in the form of a slurry containing the lower alcohol; and (3) subjecting the dispersion of the wet-milled crystals to solid-liquid separation to obtain the crystals, and heating the crystals.
US09278931B2 Cyclopropaneamine compound
The present invention provides a compound having a lysine-specific demethylase 1 inhibitory action, and useful as a medicament such as a prophylactic or therapeutic agent for cancer, and central nervous system diseases, and the like. The present invention relates to a compound represented by the formula wherein A is a hydrocarbon group or heterocyclic group optionally having substituent(s); R is H, a hydrocarbon group or heterocyclic group optionally having substituent(s); A and R are optionally bonded to each other to form a ring optionally having substituent(s); Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4 are each a hydrogen atom or a substituent; Q1 and Q2, and Q3 and Q4, are each optionally bonded to each other to form a ring optionally having substituent(s); X is H, an acyclic hydrocarbon group or saturated cyclic group optionally having substituent(s); Y1, Y2 and Y3 are each H, a hydrocarbon group or heterocyclic group optionally having substituent(s); X and Y1, and Y1 and Y2, are each optionally bonded to each other to form a ring optionally having substituent(s); and Z1, Z2 and Z3 are each H or a substituent, or a salt thereof.
US09278926B2 Aromatic amine derivative, and organic electroluminescent element comprising same
Provided is an aromatic amine derivative represented by the formula N(ArA)(ArB)(ArC) as an organic EL device material capable of reducing the driving voltage of an organic EL device, and improving its luminous efficiency and device lifetime. ArA represents the formula (II-1) or (II-2). La represents an arylene group or the like, Ara represents an aryl group or the like, and n represents 2 or 3. ArB represents the formula (III). Lb represents a single bond or the like, R1 and R2 each represent an alkyl group or the like, o and p each represent 0 to 3 or the like, X represents an oxygen atom or the like, and R3, R4 and R5 each represent an alkyl group or the like. ArC represents an aryl group, a heteroaryl group, or the formula (II-1), (II-2), or (III).
US09278916B2 Preparation of pet precursor
The invention relates to a process for preparation of radiopharmaceutical precursors, and in particular protected amino acid derivatives which are used as precursors for production of radiolabeled amino acids for use in in vivo imaging procedures such as positron emission tomography (PET). Particularly, the invention relates to a process for preparation of a precursor of the [18F]-1-amino-3-fluorocyclobutanecarboxylic acid ([18F] FACBC) PET agent and particularly to the work-up process of this precursor removing generated salts from the intermediate composition.
US09278911B2 4-dedimethylamino tetracycline compounds
The present invention pertains, at least in part, to novel substituted 4-dedimethylamino tetracycline compounds. These tetracycline compounds can be used to treat numerous tetracycline compound-responsive states, such as bacterial infections and neoplasms, as well as other known applications for minocycline and tetracycline compounds in general, such as blocking tetracycline efflux and modulation of gene expression.
US09278906B2 Process for hydrogenating aromatic di- and polyamines to cycloaliphatic di- and polyamines
A process for hydrogenating aromatic di- and polyamines is provided comprising the steps of reacting the aromatic amine with hydrogen in the presence of a catalytic system, wherein the catalytic system comprises a heterogeneous catalyst comprising a metal selected from the group consisting of Cr, Mo, W, Mn, Re, Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd and/or Pt and a support, and wherein the catalyst system further comprises an organic nitro compound. Hydrogenation of aromatic di- and polyamines having two or more amino groups bound to the aromatic ring produces cycloaliphatic di- and polyamines, which are useful chemical intermediates, e.g., for further reaction with epoxides or isocyanates. The amino groups may also be converted to isocyanates via reaction with phosgene. The resulting cycloaliphatic di- and polyisocyanates may also be used as monomers for making polymers.
US09278898B2 Workup of a cyclododecanone cyclododecanol mixture in a dividing wall column
A process for removing a cyclododecanone-rich fraction from a dehydrogenation mixture containing low boilers, cyclododecanone, medium boilers, cyclododecanol and high boilers is provided. According to the process, the cyclododecanone is separated from the cyclododecanol in a dividing wall column. The apparatus which is the dividing wall column is also provided within this invention.
US09278895B2 Process for the manufacture of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene by gas phase fluorination of pentachloropropane
The present invention provides a process of catalytic fluorination in gas phase of product 1,1,1,2,3-pentachloropropane or/and 1,1,2,2,3-pentachloropropane into product 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene in presence of a catalyst.
US09278893B2 Process for making gasoline by oligomerization
Disclosed is the addition of C5 olefins to oligomerization feed stream has the counterintuitive effect of reducing the production of heavier oligomers over a uni-dimensional, ten-ring pore zeolite. Consequently, C5 olefins can be added to C4 olefins in an oligomerization feed stream to produce more gasoline and less distillate.
US09278888B1 Use of non-chloride cement accelerator and electric arc furnace dust in cement
The present disclosure relates to cement compositions comprising: (a) cement, (b) an electric arc furnace dust (EAFD), and (c) a non-chloride cement accelerator; wherein the electric arc furnace dust is present in an amount from greater than 0 wt % to 8 wt % based on the total weight of the cement (a). Also disclosed are methods for making the disclosed compositions and products using the disclosed compositions. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention.
US09278871B2 Method for removing chromium from water using weak base anion exchange resin at near-neutral pH
A method of removing chromium from water using a weak base anion exchange resin at a pH above about 5 includes the step of periodically reducing a flow of the water through the ion exchange resin for a rest period, such that a secondary mechanism of chromium removal predominates, wherein chromium ions are removed from the weak base anion exchange groups and precipitated inside the ion exchange resin. In an alternative embodiment, rather than resting, the ion exchange resin is periodically conditioned with an acid so as to enhance the secondary mechanism.
US09278869B1 Assembly for treating flowing water
A number of purifying packages containing layers of fibrous batting confining granules of substances which can remove toxic species from flowing water are arranged in an abutting planar array sandwiched between rigid grates.
US09278866B2 Hollow silica particles, compositions comprising them, and methods for making same
Methods for making and compositions comprising hollow silica particle are disclosed, said particles made from a composition comprising a silicon-containing compound selected from the group consisting of tetraalkoxysilanes, trialkyloxysilanes and derivatives thereof, dialkoxysilanes and derivatives thereof, alkoxysilanes and derivatives thereof, silicone oligomers, oligomeric silsesquioxanes and silicone polymers distributed over a polymer template core that is eliminated from the particle. The particles of the present invention have a substantially uniform particle size and exhibit low permeability to liquids.
US09278865B2 Method for producing hexachlorodisilane
A method produces hexachlorodisilane. Hexachlorodisilane is obtained by oxidative splitting of the chlorinated polysilane of the empirical formula SiClx (x=0,2-0,8) using chlorine gas. The hexachlorodisilane is selectively obtained with a high yield.
US09278854B2 Method for producing a sensor
The present invention relates to a method for producing a sensor (SEN), comprising the steps of arranging a sensor element (SE) on a carrier (TR), arranging a cover (AF) on the sensor element (SE), wherein the sensor element (SE) is enclosed between the cover (AF) and the carrier (TR), adhesively bonding a carrier film (TF) onto the cover (AF), and producing an opening (SO) in the carrier film (TF) and the cover (AF), wherein the openings (SO) in the carrier film (TF) and the cover (AF) at least partly overlap.
US09278849B2 Micro-sensor package and associated method of assembling the same
A micro-sensor package is provided that includes a micro-sensor and printed circuit board (PCB), or that includes an array of micro-sensors and PCB. The micro-sensor includes a first substrate having opposing front and back surfaces, a sensing element on the front surface of the first substrate, and a through-chip via disposed within the first substrate and electrically connected to the sensing element. The PCB includes a second substrate to which the back surface of the first substrate is bonded. The second substrate defines a recess within which a bond pad is disposed, and the through-chip via of the micro-sensor is electrically connected to the bond pad of the PCB. The micro-sensor package may further include a shim bonded to the PCB, and that may surround an outer boundary of the micro-sensor and have approximately the same thickness as the micro-sensor.
US09278845B2 MEMS multi-axis gyroscope Z-axis electrode structure
Various examples include microelectromechanical die for sensing motion that includes symmetrical proof-mass electrodes interdigitated with asymmetrical stator electrodes. Some of these examples include electrodes that are curved around an axis orthogonal to the plane in which the electrodes are disposed. An example provides vertical flexures coupling an inner gimbal to a proof-mass in a manner permitting flexure around a horizontal axis.
US09278844B2 Filler coupling and corresponding receptacle and filling method
A method for withdrawing a pressurized gas from a receptacle comprising a tap, the tap comprising a filler/withdrawal coupling for a pressurized gas receptacle designed to interact with a packaging connector in order to allow said receptacle to be filled with pressurized gas or for withdrawal of pressurized gas from the receptacle, the method comprising a) a first step of moving a dust-prevention valve downstream in order to open the upstream end of the circuit via a mechanical actuation and/or a fluidic actuation carried out by the packaging connector and b) a second step of moving an isolation valve to a downstream opening position via a mechanical actuation carried out by the dust-prevention valve and/or via a fluidic actuation carried out by the gas delivered by the packaging connector.
US09278839B2 Mast and integral display mount for a material handling vehicle
A mast and integral display mount for a material handling vehicle are shown. The mast mounts a locating apparatus such that a locating axis of the locating apparatus is coaxial with a steering axis of the steerable drive wheel of the material handling vehicle. An integral display mount may include a display unit and display screen housed in a display housing that is integral with the steering handle of the vehicle. The integral nature of the display mount allows the display unit to move with the steering handle during steering of the vehicle.
US09278832B2 Method of reducing computational demand for image tracking
A method of reducing computational demand for image tracking includes first receiving a plurality of images of a load hoisted with hanging wire in a preset transitional space, setting at least one monitoring point each at the load and the hanging wire, respectively, providing a tracking frame at the outer periphery of each monitoring point, allowing each tracking frame to track on its corresponding monitoring point that each monitoring point is kept on a relative location within each corresponding tracking frame, and producing the same displacement as that of the monitoring point, and lastly computing the displacement of each tracking frame thus obtaining the displacement of each monitoring point in correspondence to the tracking frame to calculate various displacement of the hanging wire and the load, respectively. With this image tracking method, the processing quantity of whole image data is effectively decreased and computational demand of equipments is reduced.
US09278829B2 Method and system for controlling sway of ropes in elevator systems by modulating tension on the ropes
A method controls an operation of an elevator system using a control law to stabilize a state of the elevator system using a tension of an elevator rope. A derivative of a Lyapunov function along dynamics of the elevator system controlled by the control law is negative definite. The control law is a function of amplitude of a sway of the elevator rope and a velocity of the sway of the elevator rope. The method determines the amplitude of the sway of the elevator rope and the velocity of the sway of the elevator rope during the operation, and determines a magnitude of the tension of the elevator rope based on the control law, and the amplitude and the velocity of the sway of the elevator rope.
US09278828B2 Group management control device for elevator
Provided is a group management control device for elevator in which the occurrence of useless waiting time and lateness for boarding is reduced even when there is a difference in the distance from a hall call registration device to each car. For this purpose, the group management control device for elevator which manages a plurality of elevators as a bank includes a hall call registration device, a walking time prediction section which predicts the walking time of a user on the basis of the distance from the hall call registration device to each of the elevators, and a hall call assignment section which decides an elevator to be assigned to a hall call on the basis of an evaluation value calculated by using the predicted walking time. The plurality of elevators which are managed as a bank are divided into a plurality of groups according to the distance from the hall call registration device. The walking time prediction section predicts the walking time for each group by using the same value preset as the distance for the elevators belonging to the same group.
US09278826B2 System and method for producing a three-dimensional dry fiber preform
A preform forming machine for producing a three-dimensional dry fiber preform may include a forming block assembly and a clamping plate assembly. The forming block assembly may have a forming table and a forming block and may be positionable in a series of forming block assemblies. The clamping plate assembly may have a clamping table and a clamping plate and may be positionable in a series of clamping plate assemblies arranged in opposing relation to the series of forming block assemblies. Each forming block may be configured to fold a ply stack over onto itself to form a web of a preform. Each clamping plate may be configured to clamp the ply stack to the forming table during the folding of the ply stack.
US09278824B2 Recording apparatus and winding method
A recording apparatus includes a transportation section of a recording medium; a winding section of the recording medium; and a control section that controls transportation of the recording medium by controlling the transportation section and the winding section. The control section switches a threshold of a torque limit of the winding section when winding the recording medium at the winding section by synchronizing with an operation of the transportation section. According to the recording apparatus having such a configuration, an occurrence of defects is suppressed when winding the recording medium.
US09278820B2 Sheet stacking device, sheet conveying device, and image forming apparatus
A sheet stacking device includes sheet stacking portion, electric motor, current detecting portion, abnormality determining portion, and updating portion. The sheet stacking portion is supported to be movable in up-down direction and configured to stack sheets thereon. The electric motor outputs, to the sheet stacking portion, a driving force for moving the sheet stacking portion in up-down direction. The current detecting portion detects a current value of the electric motor. The abnormality determining portion determines that the sheet stacking portion is in abnormal state when the detected current value is greater than a predetermined threshold. The updating portion updates the threshold based on the current value that was detected by the current detecting portion while the sheet stacking portion with a predetermined set amount of sheets stacked thereon was being moved by the driving force received from the electric motor.
US09278818B2 Medium supply device and image forming apparatus
A medium supply device includes a medium cassette that accommodates a medium, a dial that is rotatable around a predetermined rotation shaft, an angle-holding part to hold the dial, a subsidiary arm including arm parts that are independently displaceable, and a detection switch with switch parts that are pressed by arm parts of the subsidiary arm. The dial includes a display part on which display elements illustrating a medium size are arranged in a circumferential direction around the rotation shaft, a rotation lock part configured to be locked by the angle-holding part, and a projection formation part that includes projection parts configured to press the arm parts of the subsidiary arm in a circumferential direction around the rotation shaft. The projection parts selectively contact and displace the arm parts in accordance with the rotation angle of the dial to selectively press the switch parts of the detection switch.
US09278805B2 Automated cover
The disclosure describes a novel collection bin for a waste collection vehicle. The collection bin includes an automated cover system.
US09278802B2 Detachable container
The present invention discloses a detachable container comprising a base, side panels, corner posts and a roof panel, wherein the side panels are detachably connected to the base and to the roof panel, the corner posts are located between adjacent side panels and the side panels are detachably connected to the corner posts, respectively. A connection is employed for connecting the side panels with the base, the corner posts and the roof panel of the detachable container according to the present invention. Therefore, in the process of returning empty containers, each of the containers can be detached and form a whole piece, so as to reduce the space occupied. In addition, a modularized design may be employed for each component of the detachable container, so as to achieve universality of components of the container. Furthermore, this detachable container also has the advantages of convenient assembly, simple structure, etc.
US09278798B2 High speed bolt dispenser
A method and a system for dispensing bolts are provided. The system includes a dispensing cartridge including a dispensing tube and a dispensing section. The dispensing tube includes a first end, a second end, and a passage provided between the first end and the second end. The passage is configured to store a plurality of bolts to be supplied to the dispensing tube through the first end such that the bolts are moved through the passage. The dispensing section is located near the second end of the dispensing tube and is configured to dispense the bolts one at a time from the second end.
US09278792B2 Package for products packed in blister packs, a tray-shaped slide suitable for such a package, a blister pack suitable for such a package as well as a housing suitable for such a package
A package for products packed in blister packs comprises a housing, a tray-shaped slide which is slidably accommodated in the housing in a sliding direction as well as a number of blister packs stacked inside the tray-shaped slide. The tray-shaped slide comprises a bottom wall and side walls connected to the bottom wall. The tray-shaped slide is provided with a pen, while each blister pack is provided with an passage, wherein the pen of the tray-shaped slide extends through the passages of all blister packs stacked inside the tray-shaped slide.
US09278789B2 Lockable cap for medical prescription bottle
A lockable cap, is a security feature for a medical prescription bottle. There is a three dial locking mechanism that is attached to the cap and the dial locking mechanism and the cap can be attached or removed from the bottle only when the user has the correct combination on the dial lock.
US09278784B2 Device for capping a container neck
A capping device includes an external outer cap adapted to be removably fixed to the exterior face of a container neck, and an internal insert adapted to plug the opening of the neck. The insert is adapted to be fitted to the neck independently of the outer cap and before fitting the outer cap to the neck. When it is fitted to the neck, the outer cap is adapted to be permanently fastened to the insert. When filling the container, the insert may include means for retaining it on the neck adapted to connect the insert mechanically to the neck before the outer cap is fitted to the neck, thereby sealing at least the exterior peripheral surface of the free end of the neck against a cleaning liquid applied externally to the neck.
US09278783B2 Separable or opening portions for printable sheet material
A printable sheet material includes a panel having an integral separable portion and a starting mechanism formed on the separable portion. At least one tearable line is formed in the panel permitting the separable portion to be at least partially separated from a remaining portion of the panel. The tearable line includes a plurality of open “V” channeling cuts spaced along the line, each of the channeling cuts formed by a converging pair of cuts having a wider spaced end and a narrower spaced end. The channeling cuts are oriented with the wider spaced ends facing toward the starting mechanism to point in a tearing direction extending away from the starting mechanism. A patch is affixed to the remaining portion solely by an adhesive attachment device on the remaining portion and the patch overlaps less than an entire facing surface of the separable portion wherein when the sheet material is formed into an envelope and the separable portion is at least partially separated from the remaining portion an opening is created between an edge of the patch and the separable portion for at least one of direct view of, access to, and extraction of contents within the envelope.
US09278781B1 Stackable interlocking vessel
A container that is interlockingly stackable and self-sealing. The container includes a body, an upper interlock component, and a lower interlock component. The upper interlock component extends outwardly from the body. The lower interlock component extends inwardly from the body and replaceably receives the upper interlock component of a next lower container so as to allow the container to be interlockingly stacked and self-sealed. In a first embodiment, the container is a bottle, and in a second embodiment, the container is a can.
US09278779B2 Pallet
A pallet is configured to be stackable in a plurality of stages. The pallet includes a bottom plate, a top plate on which an object to be packed is placed, a leg member, and a sidewall member. The leg member connects the bottom plate and the top plate and is disposed along the outer edges of the bottom plate and the top plate. The sidewall member are vertically installed along the outer edge of the top plate and are formed with a connection hole to be used in a connection of an outside packing case that covers the object to be packed. When the pallet is stacked on a top plate of another pallet the leg member is provided with an engagement portion that is disposed in correspondence to a connection hole of a sidewall member of the other pallet.
US09278776B2 Can ends having machine readable information
A system and method for laser marking can end, including a can end center panel and/or pull tab. The decorated can end and/or tabs may have a machine readable image.
US09278773B2 Film-fitting device
A film-fitting device includes a cutting mechanism that cuts a label-forming medium into a predetermined length, a film transfer mechanism that transfers downstream a tubular film arranged around a mandrel, and a shot roller that receives the tubular film transferred by the film transfer mechanism and delivers the tubular film downstream while rotating the tubular film in the circumferential direction. The distance from the cutting mechanism to the shot roller and the distance from the film transfer mechanism to the shot roller are both greater than the length of the tubular film formed by the cutting. Further, rotational drive of the shot roller is carried out by an independent servo motor or stepping motor.
US09278764B2 Three-piece aircraft brake assembly container and method of using same
An aircraft brake assembly container having a base or container portion with feet extending therefrom. A further base portion is provided and mounted atop the base portion. A spacing is provided between the base and further base portions and this spacing is filled by a spacing container portion or member. The spacing container portion allows for lower profile base and further base portions while accommodating larger diameter new and used brake assemblies. A method of using same is also provided.
US09278763B2 Method and system for identifying fastener placement zones
Certain embodiments of the disclosure provide one or more methods and/or systems to provide for determination of valid fastener zones that meet certain design rules. A method may include selecting at least one fastener having a preselected size and providing a first structural member and second structural member each having preselected sizes and shapes. The method may include determining a first fastener placement zone in the first structural member and determining a second fastener placement zone in the second structural member, where the respective first and second fastener placement zones are determined as a function of the structural design rules. The method may include determining a final fastener zone by identifying an overlap of the first and second fastener zones.
US09278761B2 System and method for indicating pressure in aerial refueling assembly
An aerial refueling assembly includes, for example, a pressure transducer, a processor, and one or more light sources. The processor is coupled to the pressure transducer. The one or more light sources are coupled to the processor. The pressure transducer is configured to sense a fuel pressure inside the aerial refueling assembly and to provide a signal that is indicative of the sensed fuel pressure inside the aerial refueling assembly. The processor is configured to receive the signal and to cause the one or more light sources to flash in a manner that relates to the sensed fuel pressure.
US09278750B2 Aircraft rib assembly
A moveable control surface mounting rib assembly (110) comprises a rib (144) which is attached to one side of a spar member (112) and a stiffener (160) attached to another side of the spar member. The stiffener abuts the upper and lower flanges of the spar member in order to react the loads. The invention is applicable to the mounting of any movable control surface.
US09278746B1 Systems and methods for redundant drive-by-wire control of marine engines
Systems and methods are for drive-by-wire control of a marine engine. An input device is manually operated to provide operator inputs to an engine control unit (ECU) located with the engine. The ECU has a main processor that controls speed of the engine based upon the inputs. The ECU also has a watchdog processor that receives the inputs and that monitors operations of the main processor based upon the inputs. The operations of the main processor are communicated to the watchdog processor via a communication link. When communication between the main processor and watchdog processor fails, the watchdog processor determines whether the main processor is properly functioning based upon the speed of the engine.
US09278745B2 Vertical travel assistance unit for a trolling motor
A vertical travel assistance unit for a trolling motor in which the vertical travel assistance unit is attached to the shaft of the trolling motor by at least one mounting bracket or clamp and is attached to the trolling motor boat mount by at least one mounting bracket or clamp. A power cable connects the trolling motor and the vertical travel assistance unit to provide power to the actuator of the vertical travel assistance unit, which permits the vertical travel assistance unit to raise or lower the trolling motor along a vertical axis and wherein the vertical travel assistance unit, having an actuator comprising an actuator shaft; motor shaft and the trolling motor shaft moves up and down when the actuator shaft moves up and down.
US09278739B2 Modular foil
The modular foil includes a wing and a fuselage extending in a longitudinal direction and bearing the wing. The fuselage includes a central segment, a first segment bearing a first portion of the wing, and being removable from the central segment, and an assembling device to connect the central segment with the first segment in the longitudinal direction. The central segment and the first segment are connected end to end. The assembling device includes a pair formed by a male connector and a female connector cooperating through a specific interlocking. The male connector includes at least one outer inclined wall, complementary and cooperating with an internal inclined wall born by the female connector for an optimal interlocking between the central segment and the first segment. There is a locking device along the longitudinal axis of the fuselage ensuring locking in at least one direction of the longitudinal axis.
US09278738B2 Rider controllable skimboard
A rider-controllable skimboard includes a planar board having a top surface and a connection mechanism mounted to the top surface and proximate a nose of the planar board. The connection mechanism has a vertical pivoting mechanism and a lateral pivoting mechanism. The skimboard further includes a handle mechanism connected with the vertical pivoting mechanism and the lateral pivoting mechanism of the connection mechanism for respective limited vertical pivoting and lateral pivoting of the handle relative to the planar board. The handle mechanism has a length of 80 to 120 percent of a length of the board, such that in a non-pivoted position a handgrip connected with the handle mechanism is positioned within 20 percent of the length of the board from the tail, and such that the limited vertical pivoting of the handle by the rider positions the upper stem portion substantially horizontal and proximate the rider's waist.
US09278728B1 Bicycle shifting control apparatus and method of controlling derailleur
A bicycle shifting control apparatus comprises a transmission controller configured to control a guide actuator of a derailleur to move a chain guide of the derailleur between a plurality of shift positions in response to an input shifting signal. The transmission controller is configured to control, in a shifting operation of the chain guide between adjacent two shift positions of the plurality of shift positions, the guide actuator to temporarily decelerate the chain guide at a deceleration position defined between the adjacent two shift positions so that the bicycle chain engages with and/or disengages from one of the sprockets having a shift assist structure prior to completion of the shifting operation of the chain guide.
US09278727B2 Electric propulsion control system
A bicycle includes at least one pedal and a flywheel. The flywheel rotates in accordance with movement of the pedal. A motor is configured to rotate a wheel. A battery powers the motor, and a throttle controls how much power is provided from the battery to the motor. Power from the battery is only provided to the motor while the flywheel is rotating.
US09278726B2 Quick-assembly front wheel device of bicycle
A quick-assembly front wheel device of a bicycle is pivotally disposed on a single-bladed fork and includes a wheel and a brake disc. The single-bladed fork has a pivotal end, the pivotal end has a first surface and a second surface, a shaft hole is opened passing through the first surface and the second surface, the wheel is located on the first surface and has a first axle shaft passing through the shaft hole, and the brake disc is located on the second surface and has a second axle shaft to pass through the shaft hole. The first axle shaft and the second axle shaft can be butted together. Therefore, the front wheel is capable of being quickly disassembled and mounted.
US09278723B2 Recumbent vehicle
A recumbent vehicle is disclosed, which generally consists of a front, seat and rear chassis. The seat chassis is operatively connected to upper and lower pivot joints, which allow for the seat chassis, and thus the rider, to move independently from the remainder of the vehicle. The upper and lower pivot joints are each comprised of subcomponents such as spherical axial bearings along with a coil to create the independent movement, which manifests itself during turns and when hitting obstacles on the terrain. The rider can control the direction of the recumbent vehicle by using a steering arm.
US09278722B2 Step structure for saddle-ride type vehicle
A step structure for a saddle-ride vehicle includes a step that is turned in a freely derricking manner between a usage state raised in a vehicle width direction and a storage state falling along a lateral side of a vehicle. In the step structure for the saddle-ride vehicle, the step is turnably arranged with a shaft provided at an end of the step as the center. The step is also stored in such a manner wherein the shaft is positioned at the rear of the step in the storage state.
US09278714B2 Vehicle body front section structure
A vehicle body front section structure includes: a suspension tower; an apron upper member that extends in a vehicle front-rear direction along a top wall portion of the suspension tower, a pair of frames that are disposed to a vehicle front side and a vehicle rear side of the suspension tower, that extend from the apron upper member towards a vehicle lower side and vehicle width direction inner side, and that are integrally formed with a cast-formed suspension tower structural body together with the suspension tower and the apron upper member; a cross rib that is formed at the apron upper member and that extends along the apron upper member; and a pair of vertical ribs that are respectively formed at the pair of frames, that extend along each of the pair of frames, and that are connected to the cross rib.
US09278713B2 Collision avoidance control integrated with EPS controller
A system and method for generating an overlay torque command for an electric motor in an EPS system for use in a collision avoidance system. The method uses model predictive control that employs a six-dimensional vehicle motion model including a combination of a one-track linear bicycle model and a one-degree of freedom steering column model to model the vehicle steering. The method determines a steering control goal that defines a path tracking error between the current vehicle path and the desired vehicle path through a cost function that includes an optimal total steering torque command. The MPC determines the optimal total steering torque command to minimize the path error, and then uses driver input torque, EPS assist torque and the total column torque command to determine the torque overlay command.
US09278711B2 Vehicle
A vehicle includes a resisting force change mechanism that changes a resisting force exerted against a turning operation of each of an upper cross member and a lower cross member with respect to a body frame, and a resisting force that occurs when the upper cross member and the lower cross member are displaced from respective positions relative to the body frame in at least two different magnitudes. The resisting force change mechanism includes a first portion and a second portion that change a resisting force against a relative turning therebetween about a resisting force change axis which is parallel or substantially parallel with an upper middle axis. The first portion is non-turnably fixed to one member and the second portion is supported by another member, at least a portion of which is turnably supported by the one member, and the second portion turns relative to the first portion.
US09278709B2 Steering system having compensation command calibration
A control system for a power steering system is provided. The control system includes an amplitude calculation module and a command module. The amplitude calculation module receives a compensation command. The amplitude calculation module determines a command amplitude that is based on the compensation command. The command module generates a command to the power steering system. The command is based on the command amplitude.
US09278707B2 Steering yoke
A steering yoke is disclosed and includes a hollow cylindrical body that can be formed from a laminated sheet of metal and polymer. The hollow cylindrical body includes a substantially uniform wall thickness. Further, the hollow cylindrical body can include a first half, a second half, a seam extending at least partially along the body between the first half and the second half, an upper end having a surface, and a lower open end. The steering yoke can also include a bearing surface coupled to the surface of the upper end of the hollow cylindrical body and a spring perch disposed in the lower end of the hollow cylindrical body. The spring perch can include a spring pocket configured to support and retain a spring for supplying a biasing force to the yoke.
US09278700B2 Fittings for railroad car truck
A rail road freight car truck has a truck bolster and a pair of side frames, the truck bolster being mounted transversely relative to the side frames. The mounting interface between the ends of the axles and the sideframe pedestals allows lateral rocking motion of the sideframes in the manner of a swing motion truck. The lateral swinging motion is combined with a longitudinal self steering capability. The self steering capability may be obtained by use of a longitudinally oriented rocker that may tend to permit resistance to deflection that is proportional to the weight carried across the interface. The truck may have auxiliary centering elements mounted in the pedestal seats, and those auxiliary centering elements may be made of resilient elastomeric material. The truck may also have friction dampers that have a disinclination to stick-slip behavior. The friction dampers may be provided with brake linings, or similar features, on the face engaging the sideframe columns, on the slope face, or both. The friction dampers may operate to yield upward and downward friction forces that are not overly unequal. The friction dampers may be mounted in a four-cornered arrangement at each end of the truck bolster. The spring groups may include sub-groups of springs of different heights.
US09278699B2 Lateral support elements, gas spring assemblies and methods
Lateral support elements for engaging an associated flexible wall of an associated gas spring assembly can be displaceably mounted along an associated end member of the associated gas spring assembly, such as by way of an elastomeric mounting element. The elastomeric mounting element can be formed as an endless annular ring, from an elongated length of elastomeric material wound helically about an axis, a plurality of support element sections disposed in peripherally spaced relation to one another about an axis or from a plurality of concentric element rings formed from elastomeric and comparatively rigid materials. Gas spring assemblies including one or more of such lateral support element as well as suspension systems that includes one or more of such gas spring assemblies and methods of manufacture are also included.
US09278697B2 Vehicle running control apparatus and method
The present disclosure relates to a vehicle running control apparatus and a vehicle running control method. The invention calculates a compensation torque for preventing the pulling of the vehicle by reflecting the speed difference between the driving wheel and the driven wheel of the vehicle, thereby enabling the vehicle to run more stably as compared to the prior art.
US09278695B2 Method, apparatus and system for detecting narrow road
A method for detecting a narrow road includes calculating relative heights of points from a distance measuring sensor to a ground based on distance information. A left boundary point and a right boundary point, at which a difference in relative heights from adjacent points becomes maximal, are acquired. A road boundary line of a driving road is acquired based on the left boundary point and the right boundary point depending on a movement trajectory of the vehicle when a difference in relative heights at the left boundary point and the right boundary point is more than or equal to a reference value. A road width of the driving road is calculated based on the road boundary line. It is detected whether the driving road of the vehicle is a narrow road based on the road width.
US09278694B2 Drive train for a hybrid electric vehicle and a method of operating such a drive train
A method of operating a drive train for a hybrid electric vehicle, and a drive train, is disclosed. The drive train includes an internal combustion engine, a first electrical machine and electrical energy storage. The engine is coupled to drive the first electrical machine as a generator and the first electrical machine connected to supply electrical energy to the electrical energy storage. The electrical energy storage is arranged for supplying electrical energy to at least a second electrical machine for driving wheels of a hybrid electric vehicle. The method includes sensing a parameter indicating the voltage across the electrical energy storage and, in response to this sensed parameter, controlling the internal combustion engine and/or the first electrical machine such that the first electrical machine gives rise to a voltage output of the first electrical machine such that the electrical energy storage is charged without the need for power electronics.
US09278688B2 Fail-safe device and fail-safe method for engine clutch actuator for hybrid vehicle
A fail-safe device and a fail-safe method for an engine clutch actuator for a hybrid vehicle may facilitate conversion into a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) mode even upon failure of an engine clutch actuator by diagnosing a failure state of an electric vehicle (EV) mode due to failure of the engine clutch actuator using a pressure sensor mounted on an actuator master cylinder of the engine clutch actuator when a driving mode is converted from the EV mode to the HEV mode, transmitting a diagnostic signal to a hybrid control unit, and allowing hydraulic oil in the actuator master cylinder to be easily supplied into a concentric slave cylinder using a separate emergency actuator when the driving mode is converted from the EV mode to the HEV mode.
US09278687B2 Control device of hybrid vehicle
A control device of a hybrid vehicle including an engine; an automatic transmission placed on a power transmission path between the engine and wheels, having a first friction engagement element engaged in a forward range and a second engagement element engaged in a reverse range based on a hydraulic pressure generated while the engine is stopped; and a rotary electric machine capable of driving the wheels without using the power transmission path. The rotary electric machine is driven when a shift range is the forward range or the reverse range while the internal combustion engine is stopped, and the driving of the rotary electric machine is restrained for a set time after the shift range is changed from the forward range to the reverse range or vice versa while the engine is stopped.
US09278682B2 System and method for controlling auto cruise of hybrid electric vehicle
A system and method for controlling automatic cruise control system is provided. More specifically, a request torque for the automatic cruise control system is calculated based on the target vehicle speed and the inclination angle of a road on which the vehicle travels, and the calculated request torque is distributed into engine torque and motor torque at a predetermined ratio. The engine and a motor are then controlled so that the engine and the motor generate torque at the predetermined ratio, and a speed difference between the traveling vehicle speed and the target vehicle speed are calculated. Additionally, a following motor torque is calculated for following the target vehicle speed based on the calculated speed difference and then is added to the distributed motor torque. The traveling vehicle speed is then controlled to the target vehicle speed based on the summed motor torque.
US09278679B2 Safety circuit for blocking drive of a brake booster
The invention relates to a brake system having a brake booster, in which pressure medium can be guided by means of at least one switchable valve (7, 15) from at least one wheel brake (10) into an accumulator chamber (8), wherein a control device controls at least the at least one switchable valve (7, 15), wherein, in the case of a disruption of the brake booster (1), in particular if the drive (11) thereof or the gear mechanism which is connected between the drive (11) and the piston of the brake master cylinder (4) is blocked, the at least one accumulator chamber (8) serves to receive pressure medium from at least one wheel brake or at least one brake circuit and therefore to dissipate pressure in at least one wheel brake.
US09278677B2 System and method for controlling respective braking pressures at wheels on a vehicle
A controller controls respective braking pressures at wheels on a vehicle. The controller includes a processor electrically communicating with a first switching valve, which controls a first of the braking pressure at a first of the wheels, and a second switching valve, which controls a second of the braking pressures at a second of the wheels. The processor, during a braking control event, controls the switching valve associated with the higher of the braking pressures to maintain the higher braking pressure while switching a state of the switching valve associated with the lower of the braking pressures to increase the lower braking pressure.
US09278664B2 Passenger seat airbag apparatus and a folded airbag used therein
A folded airbag includes an outer circumferential wall which has a passenger side panel section disposed at a passenger side when inflation of the folded airbag is completed and a vehicle body side panel section extending forward from the passenger side panel section when the inflation of the folded airbag is completed, and an inlet opening which is positioned at a front lower side of the vehicle body side panel section when the inflation of the folded airbag is completed. The folded airbag is formed by folding an unfolded airbag body through front-to-back reduction folding that reduces a size of the unfolded folded body in a front-to-back direction so that a length of the folded airbag in a lateral direction is greater than a length of the folded airbag in a front-to-back direction.
US09278662B2 Airbag apparatus and method for assembling the same
An airbag apparatus includes an airbag, a retainer secured to the airbag, and an elongated inflator attached to the retainer. The inflator discharges gas for inflating the airbag. The retainer includes an attaching protrusion, which protrudes in a direction intersecting an axis of the inflator and secures the retainer to a vehicle together with the airbag. The inflator includes an attaching protrusion, which protrudes in the direction intersecting the axis and secures the inflator to the vehicle together with the retainer.
US09278649B2 Portable vehicle safe
A portable vehicle safe and method for installing the safe in a vehicle is disclosed. The save can be mounted in a vehicle in any orientation while still providing convenient access to the contents. A generally rectangular body of the safe features a door that is mounted at an angle so that the safe can be mounted both vertically and horizontally. In particular, the vehicle safe can be mounted in a concealed location, for example, under a seat or in a console or glove box of a vehicle while still allowing easy and discreet access from inside the vehicle. Although the invention is shown and described in connection with storing a firearm, the vehicle safe can be used to store any desired item or items.
US09278648B2 Device for attaching a tablet computer
A device for attaching a tablet computer to the rear-side of a vehicle seat part has a carrier element (4, 10, 40′, 40″, 140) which is displaceably connected to a fastening device (2, 2a, 3a, 3b, 3c, 20, 20a, 30b, 30′, 130b, 30c, 130c) and to which a support (5, 50, 50′, 50″) is displaceably connected for receiving the tablet computer (6, 60). The support (5, 50, 50′, 50″, 59, 150) can be moved between a first user position in which the screen (6a, 60a, 60a′, 60a″) of the tablet computer (6, 60) is arranged on the side opposite the vehicle seat part (1a, 1b, 1c, 1c′, 1c″, 10a, 10a′, 10b, 10c) and aligned essentially vertically and a second user position in which the screen (6a, 60a, 60a′, 60a″) is oriented upward and essentially horizontally or oblique to the user.
US09278630B2 Vehicle seat
A seat having a hinge mechanism and a disabling system enabled to selectively allow and prevent a backrest from pivoting in relation to a seating portion. The hinge mechanism may have a case, a locking system, and a control member. The locking system may be locked and unlocked to prevent and enable pivoting of the backrest. The control member may be moveable between a rest position, locking the locking system, and an actuating position, unlocking the locking system. The disabling system may have a disabling member and a retaining member. The disabling member may have an active position, placing the control member in the actuating position. The retaining member may maintain the disabling member in the active position. The case may contain, in a radial dimension, at least half of both the disabling member and the retaining member.
US09278623B2 Power generation and charging device for continuous running of electric automobile
A power generation and charging device for continuous running of an electric automobile comprises generators, a charger and a storage battery. The generators are disk generators and are arranged on rims of wheels. The power generation and charging device is provided with the storage battery as same as an automobile-mounted power supply, and current leading-out wires of the generators are connected with the storage battery through the charger and a circuit converter. The original storage battery of the electric automobile is connected with an automobile power supply binding post through the circuit converter. Through the power generation and charging device, a replaced power supply is provided when the electric quantity of the automobile-mounted power supply of the electric automobile is insufficient, and the continuous running mileage of the electric automobile is greatly increased.
US09278619B2 Vehicle and method for securely disconnecting high-voltage-generating devices in the event of an accident
A vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle, has a first device, which has at least one element, which can have an electric voltage which is hazardous to a human being in the event of such a human being coming into touching contact therewith. The first device is electrically connected to a conductor, which has a low voltage. An accident sensor system outputs a sensor signal in the event of an accident. On output of the sensor signal, the element of the first device can automatically be switched to zero potential.
US09278613B2 Power transmission system of hybrid electric vehicle
A power transmission system of a hybrid electric vehicle includes an input shaft configured to receive torque of an engine. A first motor/generator includes a first rotor directly connected to the input shaft and a first stator selectively connected to a first motor housing and the input shaft. An intermediate shaft is disposed in series with the input shaft and selectively connected to the first stator. A second motor/generator includes a second rotor directly connected to the intermediate shaft and a second stator directly connected to a second motor housing. A final reduction gear is configured to receive torque from the intermediate shaft and to output the torque. A battery supplies electricity to the first and second motor/generators or is charged by torque of the first and second motor/generators.
US09278610B2 Vehicle anti-pinch moonroof control system and method
Systems and methods are provided for a vehicle roof closure that can prevent pinching of obstructions within a roof opening. Example vehicles include a roof having an opening, a panel disposed adjacent to the opening and moveable by a first motor, a shade disposed below the panel and moveable by a second motor having a lower output than the first motor, and a controller configured to close the shade before closing the panel during a close panel operation, and stop the shade if an obstruction is detected within the opening. Example methods include upon receiving a command to close a panel over an opening, causing a shade motor to start closing a shade disposed below the panel by unrolling the shade; stopping the shade motor upon detection of an obstruction within the opening; and causing a panel motor to start closing the panel upon receiving a shade closed signal.
US09278605B2 Air distribution arrangement for use with vehicle HVAC system and method of distributing air
An air distribution arrangement for distributing a flow of air produced by an HVAC system of a vehicle includes, but is not limited to, a body having an upper surface and a lower surface. The body is configured for attachment to the vehicle downstream of the flow of air. The arrangement further includes a channel associated with the upper surface disposed to receive a first portion of the flow of air and configured to guide the first portion along a length of the upper surface. The arrangement further includes a duct associated with the lower surface and extending along a path corresponding with the length. The duct is disposed to receive a second portion of the flow of air and configured to guide the second portion along the path. The duct is in fluid communication with the channel at a plurality of locations along the path.
US09278596B2 Transverse leaf spring assembly for a motor vehicle
A transverse leaf spring assembly for a motor vehicle includes a transverse leaf spring which is arranged transversely to the motor vehicle. A bearing unit connects the transverse leaf spring to a body of the motor vehicle and has a holder and elastic dampers. Accommodated in the holder is an adapter which has an interior space suited to a cross sectional geometry of the transverse leaf spring, with the transverse leaf spring being received in the adapter between the elastic dampers.
US09278594B2 Independent wheel suspension for a spring-mounted steerable wheel
Disclosed is an independent wheel suspension (1) for a steerable wheel (37) having a motor (3). The motor is connected via a linear guide (5), which is movable in an approximately vertical direction (A), to a revolute joint (7) which produces a steering connection, pivotable about an at least approximately vertically running axis of rotation (B), to a vehicle frame (39). The linear guide (5) is coupled to a fluidic spring and/or damping element (9) which forms a load-bearing constituent part of the revolute joint (7).
US09278591B2 Flexible reinforced tire valve
A flexible reinforced tire valve is disclosed. The flexible reinforced tire valve comprises a tube body, a flexible sleeve and a collar. The flexible sleeve is further disposed with a second blocking edge. When the flexible reinforced tire valve is installed on the wheel rim, the upper edge of the collar presses against the second blocking edge and the lower edge of the collar presses against an outer surface of the wheel rim so as to strengthen the durability of the tire valve against centrifugal force, whereby the tire will not leak even if the vehicle moves at high speed.
US09278588B2 Tire pressure adjustment system and method
An example method includes decreasing the pressure within at least one tire of a vehicle when the vehicle is moving. The decreasing is in response to a condition change. An example assembly includes a sensor and a tire pressure controller that causes a decrease in a pressure within at least one tire of a vehicle in response to a first condition detected by the sensor.
US09278579B2 Automobile salt dispenser
An apparatus to dispense salt, sand, brine or similar material under or in the area of a tire on a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to, a truck or automobile. The apparatus comprises one or more containers for storing salt, sand, brine, or similar material that can be used to melt or provide traction on snow or ice. One or more tubes or lines run from the container(s) to a position above or near a vehicle wheel, or in the wheelwell, where the salt, sand, brine or similar material can be dispensed via a dispenser directly onto the snow or ice under or proximate to the tire, or onto the tire itself. A pump is used to pump the salt, sand, brine or similar material through the lines. The pump may be integrated with the container, or may be separately installed.
US09278572B2 Melted crayon painting system
A melted crayon painting system for effectively painting with melted crayon. The melted crayon painting system generally includes providing a tube having a distal end, a receiver-dispenser opening within the distal end and a lumen fluidly connected to the receiver-dispenser opening, heating the tube to a temperature of at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit, inserting the distal end of the tube into a crayon, melting a portion of the crayon with the tube, receiving a volume of melted crayon from the crayon into the lumen from the receiver-dispenser opening, removing the distal end of the tube from the crayon, and dispensing the volume of melted crayon within the lumen from the receiver-dispenser opening.
US09278571B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus includes a binding portion binding a plurality of sheets stacked on a sheet stacking portion as a bundle by deforming the sheets without a staple. The sheet processing apparatus further includes a moving member moving the sheet bundle bound at a binding position by the binding portion from the binding position and a restricting member restricting the move of the sheet bundle such that a distance between the sheet bundle and the moving member is kept to be less than a predetermined distance in moving the sheet bundle by the moving member.
US09278570B2 Protective layer transfer sheet
Provided is a protective layer transfer sheet which includes a protective layer, whereby it becomes possible to form an image on the protective layer set on a print without causing the abnormal transfer of a dye layer, the breakage of the dye layer and the like, and it also becomes possible to achieve a satisfactory level of plasticizer resistance of the print. The protective layer transfer sheet including a substrate and a protective layer peelably formed on the substrate, wherein the protective layer includes one or both of a cellulose ester having a number average molecular weight of not less than 15000 and not more than 30000 and a vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer having a number average molecular weight of not less than 15000 and not more than 30000, and a cellulose ester having a number average molecular weight of not more than 7000.
US09278569B2 Inkjet recording medium
An inkjet recording medium includes a substrate, an intermediate layer disposed on the substrate, and an ink receiving layer disposed on the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer includes a binder, an inorganic pigment, and a pigment ink fixing agent chosen from divalent salts, multivalent salts, and combinations thereof. The ink receiving layer includes a non-film forming polymer, a binder chosen from any of water dispersible binders or water soluble binders, and a pigment.
US09278565B2 Information processing apparatus, program, information processing method, printing apparatus, and printing system
The present invention provides an information processing apparatus. The apparatus includes a generating unit generating printing data for printing on a printing medium by a printing apparatus, an analyzing unit analyzing a margin amount on a leading edge side of the printing medium based on the printing data, and a transmitting unit transmitting margin information based on an analysis result of the analyzing unit to the printing apparatus prior to transmission of the printing data to the printing apparatus.
US09278564B2 Gas enclosure systems and methods utilizing multi-zone circulation and filtration
The present teachings relate to various embodiments of a gas enclosure system that can have a particle control system that can include a multi-zone gas circulation and filtration system, a low-particle-generating X-axis linear bearing system for moving a printhead assembly relative to a substrate, a service bundle housing exhaust system, and a printhead assembly exhaust system. Various components of a particle control system can include a tunnel circulation and filtration system that can be in flow communication with bridge circulation and filtration system. Various embodiments of a tunnel circulation and filtration system can provide cross-flow circulation and filtration of gas about a floatation table of a printing system. Various embodiments of a gas enclosure system can have a bridge circulation and filtration system that can provide circulation and filtration of gas about a printing system bridge and related apparatuses and devices. Accordingly, various embodiments of a gas circulation and filtration system as disclosed herein can effectively remove both airborne particulate matter, as well as particulate matter generated proximal to a substrate during a printing process. As such, various embodiments of a gas circulation and filtration system in conjunction with various embodiments of a gas purification system of the present teachings can provide for a controlled manufacturing environment resulting in a high-yield of OLED various devices.
US09278559B1 Reducing tension fluctuations using isolated tension zones
A method and system for reducing tension fluctuations in a printing system are disclosed. A plurality of tension zones is defined in the printing system. Tension on the web in one tension zone is controlled independently of the tension on the web in the other tension zones. The printing system also includes at least one roller for each tension zone. The rollers receive tension control commands and control the amount of tension on the web in their respective tension zones. The printing system is used to print a first copy of the print job on the web and tension on the web in each tension zone is measured. Tension control adjustments are computed for each tension zone based on the tension measurements. The tension control adjustments are used to adjust the tension control commands to the rollers to print a second copy of the print job.
US09278558B2 Image recording device
An image reading device includes a tray unit, a recording unit disposed above the tray unit, an outer guide defining a curved path extending from the tray unit to the recording unit, a sheet feeder configured to feed a sheet from the tray unit to the curved path, and a return guide disposed between the recording unit and the tray unit. The return guide pivots about a shaft and guides the sheet having an image recorded thereon back to the curved path. The tray unit includes at least one supporting portion. The return guide includes at least one supported portion. The at least one supporting portion of the tray unit engages the at least one supported portion of the return guide such that the return guide takes a guiding position in which the return guide defines a return path extending to the curved path.
US09278550B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a transport drum that supports and transports a recording medium on an outer peripheral surface thereof, a recording head that is provided in a position so as to be capable of facing the outer peripheral surface and ejects ink onto the recording medium, and a drying unit that is provided in the inside of the transport drum and dries the ink.
US09278547B2 Record and method for manufacturing record
A method for manufacturing a record includes an image layer-forming step of forming an image layer by applying ink containing resin and a solvent A to a recording medium, a heating step of heating the image layer to a temperature not lower than the glass transition temperature of the resin, and a solvent-removing step of removing the solvent A from the image layer after the heating step.
US09278546B2 Optical writing head and image forming apparatus
An optical writing head includes a light emitting device array having a plurality of light emitting device that emit parallel rays of light, and an optical unit arranged between the light emitting device array and an image plane to form an image by the rays of light emitted from the light emitting devices on the image plane. The optical unit includes a two-dimensional grating.
US09278545B2 Light emitting diode integrated with lens, line printer head, and method of manufacturing the light emitting diode
Provided are a light emitting diode unit including a light emitting diode integrated with a lens, a line printer head using the light emitting diode, and a method of manufacturing the light emitting diode. The light emitting diode unit includes the light emitting diode layer bonded to a transparent substrate after removing a growth substrate on which the light emitting layer is grown, and a lens that refracts light emitted from the light emitting diode is formed on the transparent substrate.
US09278535B2 Recording head recovery mechanism, inkjet recording apparatus, and recording head recovery method
A recovery mechanism for a recording head includes a wiper and a drive mechanism. The recovery mechanism performs a residual ink attachment operation of attaching residual ink from a tip of the wiper at a first position. After the residual ink attachment operation, the recovery mechanism performs an ink wiping operation of wiping away the residual ink and purged ink by moving the wiper along an ink discharge surface toward the first position from a second position at an opposite side of a nozzle region relative to the first position.
US09278534B2 Translatable web support
A method and apparatus service a print head by translating a first web support relative to a second web support to adjust a length of a web extending between the first support and the second support.
US09278529B2 Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting head unit, liquid ejecting line head and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting head including a head main unit having L (L is an integer of 2 or more) nozzle rows parallel to one another in a first direction in which, for each nozzle row, in a case in which one side in a second direction that intersects the first direction at a predetermined angle in a range of 0 degrees to 90 degrees is the first side, the nozzle row furthest to the first side among the L nozzle rows does not have a nozzle positioned at a distance M or more further to the first side in the second direction than the nozzle furthest to the first side of a nozzle row neighboring in the second direction.
US09278526B1 Modular printhead sub-assembly
A printhead for a printer and methods for making the printhead. The printhead may include a driver module on a jetstack. The jetstack may include a plurality of holes formed therethrough. A first adhesive layer may be disposed on the jetstack. A diaphragm plate may be disposed on the first adhesive layer. A piezoelectric layer may be disposed on the diaphragm plate. A second adhesive layer may be disposed on the piezoelectric layer. A chip on flex may be disposed on the second adhesive layer.
US09278522B2 High resolution sensing and control of electrohydrodynamic jet printing
Provided are various methods and devices for electrohydrodynamic (E-jet) printing. The methods relate to sensing of an output current during printing to provide control of a process parameter during printing. The sensing and control provides E-jet printing having improved print resolution and precision compared to conventional open-loop methods. Also provided are various pulsing schemes to provide high frequency E-jet printing, thereby reducing build times by two to three orders of magnitude. A desktop sized E-jet printer having a sensor for real-time sensing of an electrical parameter and feedback control of the printing is provided.
US09278520B2 Liquid discharging apparatus
A liquid discharging apparatus includes: a recording head that includes M numbers of the discharging units; a drive unit that drives the discharging unit; a residual vibration detecting unit that detects residual vibration occurring in the discharging unit; and a determining unit that determines a state of discharge of the liquid in the discharging unit on the basis of a detection result. The determining unit is capable of performing the determination in two or more determination modes, and determines at least one of one or a plurality of target discharging units that is to be a target of the determination during a determination time period, and a drive discharging unit that the drive unit is to drive so as to determine the state of discharge of the liquid in the target discharging unit from the M numbers of discharging units depending on the determination mode.
US09278519B2 Control system and method for use in digital printing
The present invention provides a control system for use in digital printing, comprising: a host; multiple main control boards connected to the host, multiple sets of nozzle plates, wherein each set of nozzle plate respectively is connected to one main control board and to one set of nozzle. The present invention also provides a control method for use in digital printing, comprising: the host decomposing a job into multiple portions, and distributing each portion of the job to one main control board; the main control boards concurrently converting received portions of the job into pages and distributing the pages to a set of nozzle plates connected thereto; the nozzle plates converting the pages into printing data and driving the nozzle sets connected to the nozzle boards to print the printing data thereof. The present invention achieves the effect of improving processing performance of the control system.
US09278518B2 Printhead substrate, printhead, and printing apparatus
A printhead substrate comprising a plurality of printing portions and a plurality of ink supply ports, wherein the plurality of printing portions are divided into a plurality of groups, and the plurality of ink supply ports are arranged so as to correspond to the plurality of groups respectively, the printhead substrate also comprises a plurality of first voltage wiring portions provided in correspondence with the plurality of groups, and each first voltage wiring portion includes a first wiring pattern configured to connect the first terminals of the respective printing portions in the corresponding group with each other, and a second wiring pattern connected to the first wiring pattern and arranged between an ink supply port in the corresponding group and its neighboring ink supply port.
US09278510B2 Method for producing a card body
A method is for manufacturing a stiff, multilayered card body for a portable data carrier, has steps including: making available a layer of an opaque plastic, making available a carbon fiber layer of carbon fiber fabric, impregnating the carbon fiber layer with epoxy resin, fusing the layers to form a half-product, printing the upper side of the carbon fiber layer of the half-product with a graphic pattern in a screen printing process or an offset printing process, laminating a plastic layer onto the printed upper side, and detaching the card body from the half product by means of a separating tool guided relative to the half-product along a path describing the edge contour of the card body.
US09278509B2 Prepreg tape slitting method and apparatus
Improved methods and apparatus are provided for the production of prepreg slit tape wherein master rolls of prepreg sheet are formed which are capable of being slit, with liner attached, at high precision.
US09278505B2 Thermosetting resin composition and prepreg and metal clad laminate using the same
The present invention relates to a thermosetting resin composition used in a printed circuit board for a semiconductor package, and a prepreg and a metal clad laminate using the same. More particularly, the present invention provides a thermosetting resin composition that includes a mixture of a BT or cyanate resin and an epoxy resin and a specific content of a novolac resin as a curing agent so as to inhibit separation of the resin and an inorganic filler during a process of laminating a prepreg on a metal foil, thereby providing a printed circuit board having a uniform insulation layer, and a prepreg and a metal clad laminate for a double-sided or multilayer printed circuit board that are manufactured by using the same.
US09278500B2 Vehicle interior panels with sealed stitching
A vehicle interior panel includes stitching sewn through a decorative skin layer of the panel. The associated sewing needle holes are sealed by an elastomeric material before a foam layer is formed on the non-visible side of the skin layer to prevent the expanding foam from leaking through the needle holes and becoming visible at the visible side of the panel. The elastomeric material is initially applied as a viscous liquid formulated to solidify and can be applied by spraying, enabling lines of stitching to be located along complex contours of the panel. A latex emulsion is one suitable type of viscous liquid.
US09278497B2 Glass-resin laminate, glass roll produced by winding the same, and method of producing glass roll
A glass-resin laminate comprises an elongate glass film having a thickness of 1 to 300 μm, and a peelable elongate resin film having a thickness of 1 to 300 μm and a tensile modulus of elasticity of 0.3 Gpa or more. The elongate resin film is laminated on at least one surface of the elongate glass film so that the elongate resin film protrudes from edges on both sides in a lateral direction of the elongate glass film.
US09278496B2 Method of manufacturing a foldable bag and a foldable bag
A method of manufacturing a foldable bag for use in a bag-in-box assembly is described. The foldable bag being manufactured according to this method has a folded condition in which it includes at least an inwardly creased bag portion in a longitudinal direction thereof. Furthermore, the bag includes a bottom edge and a top edge opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction of the bag. The inwardly creased bag portion has a first closed end and a second closed end opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of it. The first and/or second closed end of the inwardly creased bag portion is a free end. The bag according to the invention has an improved unfolding process during filling it, and has such a configuration that it does not cause material stress in certain welded seams such as in known bags.
US09278485B2 Method to prevent stent damage caused by laser cutting
Apparatus, method and system for cutting a polymeric stent including the use of a polymeric mandrel as a laser shielding device. The polymeric mandrel is allowed to roll freely within a polymeric tube that is cut into a polymeric stent.
US09278470B2 Method to minimize molecular weight drop of poly(L-lactide) stent during processing
A method to reduce or minimize the reduction in molecular weight of a stent during processing is disclosed. The stent has a scaffolding including a polymer formulation comprising PLLA and polymandelide. The polymandelide reduces the molecular weight drop during processing, particularly during sterilization. The stent scaffolding can further include one or more additional stabilizing agents that additionally reduce the molecular weight drop during processing.
US09278463B2 Filler material for a floor and method for producing filler material for a floor
The present invention relates to a filler material for a floor, comprising a natural base material and a mixture containing loess and a resin in powder or pellet form, as well as to a method for producing the filler material. The filler material uses the natural base material and is thus environmentally-friendly and not harmful to the human body. The resin emulsion of the filler material prevents the natural base material from generating dust, thus preventing dust from entering the human body via the respiratory organs of the human body. Further, the filler material of the present invention can be easily produced through a simple process. Therefore, mass production of the filler material can be accomplished even without employing experts.
US09278453B2 Biosleeve human-machine interface
Systems and methods for sensing human muscle action and gestures in order to control machines or robotic devices are disclosed. One exemplary system employs a tight fitting sleeve worn on a user arm and including a plurality of electromyography (EMG) sensors and at least one inertial measurement unit (IMU). Power, signal processing, and communications electronics may be built into the sleeve and control data may be transmitted wirelessly to the controlled machine or robotic device.
US09278450B2 Rotating mechanism, industrial robot and method for returning rotating body to original position
A rotating mechanism which returning a rotating body to an original position. The first detecting mechanism for detecting that the rotating body is in the original position is provided with a first section-to-be-detected affixed to the rotating body and the first detecting section affixed to a supporting body. A second detecting mechanism is provided with a swing member attached to the supporting body, an engaging member that lets the swing member swing, a second section-to-be-detected affixed to the swing member, and a second detecting section affixed to the supporting body. The first detecting section detects the first section-to-be-detected at one or two positions, and the second detecting section switches between ON and OFF at one position. The rotating body is first rotated to the position at which the second detecting section switches between ON and OFF, in order to return the rotating body to its original position.
US09278441B2 Installation tool for pipe fittings
A hydraulic installation tool comprises a fixed jaw, a movable, and a plurality of independent hydraulic cylinders each comprising a piston. Movement of the pistons in a first direction moves the movable jaw toward the fixed jaw. A plurality of guide rods comprises a first end secured to the fixed jaw. A plurality of retaining members are each removably coupled to an associated one of the plurality of guide rods about the second end. The movable jaw is disposed between the fixed jaw and the plurality of hydraulic cylinders for movement along the guide rods. Each hydraulic cylinder is independently removable from the associated guide rod upon removal of the associated retaining member from said guide rod. In one example, the fixed and movable jaws are configured to engage and axially force a swage ring onto a fitting body to connect and seal the fitting body to a fluid conduit.
US09278438B2 Arcuate torque wrench stand
A torque wrench stand having an arcuate or curved surface for supporting the stand is described. The stand includes a generally semi-circular main body having a hub opening through which a torque wrench socket extension passes allowing the stand to be carried by the wrench from one wheel to the next. The hub is positioned off-set from the center of the stand along the straight upper edge of the stand. The stand supports the wrench via the extension held within the hub as the wheel lug nuts are removed. The stand pivots about the hub, thus allowing the arcuate surface of the stand to continuously adjust position as necessary so that the height of the hub from the ground matches the height of the selected lug nut from the ground and the stand easily adapts to the height of any lug nut.
US09278437B2 Handheld power tool, in particular a power drill or screwdriver
A handheld power tool has a tool holder for holding a tool, and a grip housing for holding and guiding the handheld power tool. A relative motion of the tool holder and the grip housing can be transmitted as a switching motion to a microswitch, which switches a drive unit on and off. The tool holder and the grip housing can be moved relative to one another in a direction of rotation, and the switching motion thus comprises a rotary motion of the grip housing.
US09278434B2 Socket fastener removal tool
An apparatus for removing a socket fastener is described. The apparatus includes a base, a camshaft, a sleeve and a cartridge. The base includes a base top section and a base bottom section. The camshaft includes lobes that extend from a camshaft top surface to a camshaft bottom surface. The camshaft is fixedly coupled to the base. The cartridge includes a cartridge top surface, a cartridge lip and a plurality of jaws. Each jaw includes a jaw counterclockwise outer cam surface, a jaw counterclockwise inner cam surface, a jaw clockwise outer cam surface, and a jaw clockwise inner cam surface. The cartridge is fixedly coupled to the sleeve and the cartridge interfaces with the camshaft. Additionally, the jaw inner cam surface interfaces with the camshaft cam profiles. The jaws rotate and engage the socket fastener.
US09278430B2 Abrasive article incorporating an infiltrated abrasive segment
An abrasive article includes a base, an abrasive member comprising three distinct phases bonded to each other including abrasive particles, a metal matrix, and an infiltrant. The abrasive article further includes a backing region between the abrasive member and the base, wherein the backing region comprises a laser welded bond joint.
US09278429B2 Abrasive article for abrading and sawing through workpieces and method of forming
An abrasive article includes a substrate comprising an elongated body, a tacking layer comprising tin overlying the substrate, and a first type of abrasive particle comprising an agglomerated particle overlying the tacking layer.
US09278420B2 Probe mechanism for machine tool
A contacting or non-contacting probe (2) is mounted to a spindle (6), preferably a tool spindle, of a machining device, such as a chamfering device (4), whereby it has a home position retracted out of the way of the machining (e.g. chamfering) process and an active position where it can contact a workpiece before or after the machining (e.g. chamfering) process.
US09278407B2 Dual-wire hybrid welding system and method of welding
A dual-wire hybrid welding system includes a hybrid welding apparatus having laser, electric arc welder and second wire feeding device. Electric arc welder includes first wire feeding device for feeding first wire. Second wire feeding device is arranged and disposed to feed a second wire to electric arc welder. Laser and electric arc welder are arranged and disposed to direct energy toward at least two adjacent components along a joint and first wire is a consumable electrode fed into joint to establish molten pool generated by both laser and arc welder with first wire. Second wire is fed to molten pool to form a common molten pool. Common molten pool is operable to provide a full penetration weld with less total heat input to join the at least two adjacent components without cracking the components at a high constant weld speed.
US09278392B2 Synthesis of metal alloy nanoparticles via a new reagent
Methods for producing nanoparticles of metal alloys and the nanoparticles so produced are provided. The methods include addition of surfactant and cationic metal to a novel reagent complex between zero-valent metal and a hydride. The nanoparticles of zero-valent metal alloys produced by the method include ˜7 nm zero-valent manganese-bismuth useful in fabricating a less expensive permanent magnet.
US09278391B1 Disproportionation production of nano-metal powders and nano-metal oxide powders
A method of producing nano-metal powder by providing a process metal to be processed. Selecting a metal halide identical to the process metal. Placing the process metal and selected metal halide in a controlled environment so that vapor from the selected metal halide can contact and react with the process metal. Heating the selected metal halide to a selected temperature to achieve vaporization of the selected metal halide at a desired vapor pressure, wherein the selected temperature controls the evaporation rate of the selected metal halide and the rate the nano-metal powder is formed. Heating the process metal to a temperature below the melting point of the process metal. Providing contact between the vapor of the selected metal halide and the process metal to form the nano-metal powder and reform the selected metal halide.
US09278389B2 Induction stirred, ultrasonically modified investment castings and apparatus for producing
A method for making an equiaxed investment casting. The method utilizes an ultrasonic generator to send an ultrasonic pulse into molten metal in an investment casting mold. The investment casting mold is positioned within a working zone of furnace having low output induction coils for generating a convection current in molten metal. The ultrasonic pulse separates dendrites growing from the face of the mold inward into the molten metal. Instead, equiaxed grains can nucleate within the molten metal. In addition, the ultrasonic pulse and the low output induction coils circulate the molten metal as solute is rejected from solidifying equiaxed grains. The mixing reduces the effects of segregation in the solidifying alloy and assists in nucleating equiaxed grains.
US09278385B2 Method for the manufacture of a workpiece with defined surface
A method for manufacturing a workpiece 1, 2 uses a forming tool 4, 5 having a cavity 3. An embossing element 6 profiled on at least one surface is arranged on at least one surface of the forming tool 4, 5 for producing a surface structure, and with the profile of the embossing tool 6 is imparted to the surface of the workpiece 1, 2 during a forming process.
US09278375B2 Ultrasonic transducer control
A first controller can have a greater number of output lines than a second controller has input lines. The first controller can receive an ultrasonic transducer control signal and provide a first portion of the control signal to the first processor, where the length of the first portion is less than or equal to the number of input lines of the second processor. The first processor can send portions of the control signal to a plurality of second processors. Each of the plurality of second processors can have a number of input lines less than the number of output lines of the first processor. Portions of the control signal can be sent through the output lines of the first processor to the plurality of second processors at substantially the same time.
US09278363B2 Nozzle and honeycomb filter production apparatus using the same
A nozzle is mounted on an end of an ejector for ejecting an aerosol on an ejection side in a honeycomb filter production apparatus. The nozzle is formed into a shape having a longitudinal direction. A single introduction port is formed at an end surface of the nozzle on one side in the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of discharge ports are formed at an end surface of the nozzle on the other side in the longitudinal direction. A single introduction passage extends linearly from the single introduction port in the longitudinal direction. A plurality of discharge passages are each branched from an end portion of the introduction passage on a side opposite to the introduction port and extend to corresponding one of the discharge ports in a direction tilted from the longitudinal direction.
US09278354B2 Control of operation conditions within fluidic systems
The invention provides methods of controlling environmental conditions within a fluidic system, where such environmental conditions can affect the operation of the system in its desired function, and fluidic channels, devices, and systems that are used in practicing these methods. Such methods are generally directed to environmental control fluids, the movement of such fluids through these systems, and the interaction of these fluids with other components of the system, e.g., other fluids or solid components of the system.
US09278349B2 Pipetting device, modular pipetting unit, pipetting system and method for pipetting of fluid samples
A pipetting device having a modular pipetting unit including a pipetting tip for pipetting of fluid samples and a pump conduit for transferring a negative or positive pressure to the pipetting tip is disclosed. The pipetting tip and a portion of the pump conduit adjoining the pipetting tip mutually define a fluid sample conduit for receiving the fluid samples. The modular pipetting unit is detachably attached to an automated positioning device for positioning the modular pipetting unit. A system and method for pipetting of fluid samples using such a pipetting device are also disclosed wherein pipetting of the fluid samples is performed in such a manner that each pipetted fluid sample volume is smaller than a volume of the fluid sample conduit.
US09278347B2 Catalytically coated ceramic honeycomb bodies
The invention relates to a process for coating ceramic honeycomb bodies with a coating suspension containing, in a carrier liquid, catalyst components as solids and/or in dissolved form. The honeycomb bodies have parallel flow channels running through them. The walls of the flow channels generally have an open pore structure. To coat the channel walls and in particular also the interior surfaces of the pores with the coating suspension, it is proposed that the flow channels be temporarily alternately closed and the coating suspension be forced through the open pore structure of the channel walls. The coating is subsequently dried and calcined. To close the flow channels, it is possible to use thermally or chemically decomposable or soluble compositions which are decomposed or dissolved either during calcination or by means of a subsequent chemical treatment. The coated honeycomb bodies are preferably used for the purification of exhaust gases from automobiles.
US09278343B2 Zeolite blend catalysts for treating exhaust gas
Provided is an improved catalyst for treating exhaust gas, particularly for selectively reducing NOx, and methods for using the same, wherein the catalyst includes a blend of a transition metal promoted zeolite and an un-promoted zeolite, wherein both zeolites have the same framework type.
US09278338B2 Catalyst manufacturing method
A method for producing a catalyst using an additive layer method includes: (i) forming a layer of a powdered catalyst or catalyst support material, (ii) binding or fusing the powder in said layer according to a predetermined pattern, (iii) repeating (i) and (ii) layer upon layer to form a shaped unit, and (iv) optionally applying a catalytic material to said shaped unit.
US09278335B2 Superadsorbent material system for improved filtration applications
The present invention involves the use of nanoporous carbons derived from partially or fully demetalized metal carbides in personal protection equipment for the irreversible absorption/adsorption of both broad and specific targeted gases. These materials have been specifically processed to provide enhanced effective loadings against specific harmful volatile organic compounds.
US09278334B2 Non-evaporable getter compositions which can be reactivated at low temperature after exposure to reactive gases at a higher temperature
Compositions containing a mixture of non-evaporable getter alloys are described. The compositions, after having lost their functionality in consequence of the exposure to reactive gases at a first temperature, can then be reactivated through a thermal treatment at a second temperature that is lower than the first one.
US09278331B2 Systems and methods for interior energy-activation from an exterior source
A method and a system for producing a change in a medium. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the energy modulation agent.
US09278327B2 Carbon-based durable goods and renewable fuel from biomass waste dissociation for transportation and storage
Techniques, systems, apparatus and material are described for generating renewable energy from biomass waste while sequestering carbon. In one aspect, a method performed by a reactor to dissociate raw biomass waste into a renewable source energy or a carbon byproduct or both includes receiving the raw biomass waste that includes carbon, hydrogen and oxygen to be dissociated under an anaerobic reaction. Waste heat is recovered from an external heat source to heat the received raw biomass waste. The heated raw biomass waste is dissociated to produce the renewable fuel, carbon byproduct or both. The dissociating includes compacting the heated raw biomass waste, generating heat from an internal heat source, and applying the generated heat to the compacted biomass waste under pressure.
US09278322B2 Mixer of a rotor-stator type, performance estimation method thereof, and scale up method thereof
Herein is disclosed a comprehensive mixer performance estimation method that can be applied to the mixers of the rotor-stator type having various configurations and circulation systems. Specifically, the performance estimation method for the mixers of the rotor-stator type includes the steps of: obtaining the homogenization index: H.I. for each of the mixers, measuring the size of each of the mixers, the power requirements and flow rates during the running time of each of the mixers, estimating the magnitude (smallness or greatness) of the configuration dependent term value of each of the mixer as a whole which is specific to each of the mixers, and estimating the performance of each of the mixers accordingly.
US09278321B2 Chip and cartridge design configuration for performing micro-fluidic assays
An assembly for performing micro-fluidic assays includes a micro-fluidic chip with access ports and micro-channels in communication with the access ports and a fluid cartridge having internal, fluid-containable chambers and a nozzle associated with each internal chamber that is configured to be coupled with an access port. Reaction fluids, such as sample material, buffer, and/or reagent, contained within the cartridge are dispensed from the cartridge into the access ports and micro-channels of the micro-fluidic chip. Embodiments of the invention include a cartridge which includes a waste compartment for receiving used DNA and other reaction fluids from the micro-channel at the conclusion of the assay.
US09278317B2 Hollow fiber membrane module with miniskeins in miniheaders having a zig-zag configuration
A module of hollow fiber membranes is re-configured to break up and rearrange a skein into multiple miniskeins each having no more than 250 fibers, all lower miniheaders of the miniskeins being slidably held for vertical movement in vertical slots in an aerator box. Upon shrinkage of the fibers, the lower miniheaders rise in the box. Each miniskein has from 2-12 planar ordered arrays in which the fibers are adhesively secured, preferably without potting the lower miniheaders. The lower ends of the fibers are dead-ended and lower miniheaders are positioned sequentially, transverse to the longitudinal axes of the upper header and the aerator box; its upper miniheader is potted in a choice of configurations. This configuration of miniskeins provides a packing density in each miniheader, whether upper or lower, not attainable in a prior art skein; the use of an aerator box having an area (footprint) no greater than 35% of that of the upper header, provides an effective packing density in the aerator box which provides exceptionally effective use of sparging air and readily removable sludge which drops through the bottom of the aerator box.
US09278310B2 Method of reducing nitrogen oxides from coke-oven flue gas
The invention relates to a method for reducing nitrogen oxides from the exhaust gas of a coke oven, which has a plurality of coking chambers and heating walls, arranged between the coking chambers, with heating flues (12, 12′) for the indirect heating of the coking chambers. A combustible gas (16), which consists entirely or partially of coke oven gas, is burned in the heating flues (12, 12′), thereby producing an exhaust gas which contains nitrogen oxides. A reducing agent is fed to the exhaust gas at a temperature between 700° C. and 1100° C. and the proportion of nitrogen oxide in the exhaust gas is reduced by a homogeneous gas reaction between the reducing agent and the nitrogen oxides. The exhaust gas is subsequently passed through a regenerator (4) for heat recovery. Furthermore, carbon deposits on hot parts of the combustible gas feed are burned with decarbonizing air, wherein, during a regenerator half-period in which the combustible gas feed to one heating flue (12′) is stopped, the decarbonizing air is introduced into this heating flue (12′) through the associated burner supply line and combustible gas nozzle (15′) and is discharged from another heating flue (12) with the hot exhaust gas. According to the invention, metered amounts of the reducing agent are fed into the decarbonizing air and, together with it, brought into contact with the hot exhaust gas.
US09278306B2 Process for contacting two phases whose contact is accompanied by heat evolution
A method for bringing into contact two phases which are not completely miscible with one another, and whose contact is accompanied by heat development owing to mass transfer and/or chemical reaction, in which a first phase is introduced into the lower region of a contactor and a second phase is introduced into the upper region of the contactor and passed in countercurrent flow to the first phase in the contactor, a treated first phase and an exhausted second phase being obtained, which comprises recirculating a part of the exhausted second phase to the contactor at least one point situated between the upper region and the lower region. In the preferred embodiment, the first phase is a fluid stream comprising acid gases such as CO2, H2S, SO2, CS2, HCN, COS or mercaptans, and the second phase is an absorption medium which comprises an aqueous solution of at least one organic and/or inorganic base.
US09278290B2 Game system
One object is to provide a video game system that can technically restrain real money trade. In accordance with one aspect, a server device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a determination unit 58 configured to determine whether an exchange of exhibited game contents and bid game contents is concluded based on a game content parameter value characterizing the exhibited game contents and the game content parameter value characterizing the bid game contents; and an updating unit 61 configured to update an owned game content storage unit 52 such that, only when the determination unit 58 determines that the exchange is concluded, the exhibited game contents are stored in association with player identification information of a bidder player and the bid game contents are stored in association with player identification information of an exhibitor player.
US09278286B2 Simulating musical instruments
The invention provides scoring a performance of a guitar part in a rhythm-action game. It operates in the context of a video game platform in communication with a display and a controller and involves receiving an input performance from the controller including at least one input chord note, each input chord note including an input string value corresponding to a struck string and an input fret value associated with the input string value. Then, a reference performance is provided, which includes at least two reference chord notes to be input at a target time, each reference chord note including a reference string value and a reference fret value associated with the reference string value. Then, a degree of matching is determined between the input performance and the reference performance, and a score is assigned to the input performance based on the degree of matching.
US09278278B1 “2×3” math learning game
An electronic mathematical education game including a first series of cards to be dealt to a plurality of players containing the result of a mathematical operation, and another series of cards each containing a mathematical operation corresponding to a least one of the results on the first series of cards, whereby one of said series of cards is designated as the set of “answer” cards and a plurality of said answer cards are distributed to the players while the other is designated as the set of “question” cards to be asked serially by a judge, whereupon in each round the players having a correct answer to the displayed question may transfer their matching card to the judge, with the winner being the first player to turn in all of his or her cards to the judge, and whereupon during successive games the sets of question and answer cards are reversed.
US09278273B2 Golf practice device
A golf practice device having a simulated putting green surface having artificial turf that is approximately the same height and an appearance similar to an actual grass putting surface. Surrounding the putting surface is a collar of artificial turf with grass blades that are longer than the putting surface portion. The turf surfaces may have the ability to float or a floatable substrate can be disposed below the turf for using the device as a floating target for golf shots.
US09278270B2 Soccer training device, method of use and system
The invention provided is directed to a soccer training device, module training system and method of use. The device is a deflection wall that may be portable or permanently affixed to a ground surface. The wall having a larger and smaller embodiment, mimicking the silhouette of a soccer goal or an average player of a given age range from a far distance at simulated closer range. The inventive features of the wall intended to enhance quantity, quality, speed, and accuracy of interaction and perception between the user, the ball and the wall according to professional quality and professional level training techniques. Multiple wall units may be combined to create individualized training modules wherein one person may train in a simulated multi-player environment of varying levels of complexity. Two or more module units may be combined to create a soccer training system. The modules and systems may be staged in limited ground surface area both indoor and outdoor.
US09278268B2 System and method to re-grip golf clubs
A system and method to re-grip golf clubs includes a series of systematically weighted golf club grips used to achieve a desired swing weight of a golf club. A series of interchangeable weighted tubular fitting grips having a sequence of systematically varying predetermined weights can be removably mounted on a golf club, as desired, to provide the desired swing weight. The tubular fitting grips each have a void through a length of one side of a tubular outer wall allowing each grip to be interchangeably mounted on the golf club.
US09278267B2 Golf club head
A golf club head with a club head body having an external surface with a heel portion, a toe portion, a crown portion, a sole portion, and a front opening is described. A face insert support structure is located at the front opening. The support structure includes a peripheral member and a rear support member. The rear support member has a front surface and a rear surface. A face insert is attached at the front opening and closes the front opening of the body. An undercut fill structure is attached to a portion of the rear surface of the rear support member.
US09278266B2 Aerodynamic golf club head
An aerodynamic golf club head that produces reduced aerodynamic drag forces. A crown section imparts beneficial aerodynamic properties due in part to the location of a crown apex and the curvature of the crown section. A sole section imparts beneficial aerodynamic properties due in part to the location of a sole apex and the curvature of the sole section.
US09278262B2 Golf club head
A golf club head comprises a sole, a recessed sole port in the sole; and a rotatably adjustable sole piece adapted to be at least partially received within the sole port and comprising a central body having a plurality of contact surfaces adapted to contact the sole port and being offset from each other along a central axis extending through the central body of the sole piece. The sole piece can be positioned at least partially within the sole port at five or more rotational and axial positions with respect to the central axis, wherein at each rotational position, at least one of said contact surfaces of the central body contacts the sole port to set the axial position of the sole piece. The sole port and/or the sole piece can be generally pentagonal in shape.
US09278238B2 Bracket
A bracket positioned on one side of a membrane or surface is adjustable from the other side of the surface to permit the position of an item supported by the bracket to be readily adjusted relatively to the surface. The bracket has a base to which an arm is movably attached. The arm moves between an open and a closed position to permit the item to be received by the bracket. In the closed position the item is clamped between the base and the arm. A finger is mounted on the base and is movable into and out of engagement with a contact surface on the arm. When the finger engages the contact surface it secures the arm in the closed position and effects the clamping action which holds the item in position. The finger and arm are readily accessible to permit adjustment.
US09278236B1 Victim retrieval system, method and apparatus
A victim retrieval apparatus for use with a vehicle. In some embodiments, the rescue basket comprises one or more wheels. The articulating head of the boom comprises a rotatable pulley for receiving the rescue line and is able to allow the vehicle to be parked in any position necessary while rescuing the victim. A knot-passing pulley enables a safety line (with emergency brake device) to be coupled to the basket thereby ensuring the safety of the victim in the basket at all times. The rescue basket comprises a remote control for controlling the winch speed that is able to be located at the winch itself, or be of a hand-held nature and attached at the rescue basket instead of at the vehicle if visual contact is problematic.
US09278221B2 Pacing and sensing vectors
A method for allowing cardiac signals to be sensed and pacing pulse vectors to be delivered between two or more electrodes. In one embodiment, cardiac signals are sensed and pacing pulse vectors are delivered between at least one of a first left ventricular electrode and a second left ventricular electrode. Alternatively, cardiac signals are sensed and pacing pulse vectors are delivered between different combinations of the first and second left ventricular electrodes and a first supraventricular electrode. In addition, cardiac signals are sensed and pacing pulse vectors are delivered between different combinations of the first and second left ventricular electrode, the first supraventricular electrode and a conductive housing. In an additional embodiment, a first right ventricular electrode is used to sense cardiac signals and provide pacing pulses with different combinations of the first and second left ventricular electrodes, the first supraventricular electrode and the housing.
US09278216B2 Spinal cord stimulator system
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery. Other processing circuitry in current IPG allows electrode impedance measurements to be made.
US09278205B2 Collapsible valve with internal dimples
A needleless connector has a body having an internal cavity with a sealing ridge, a port, an output flow channel, and a fluid flow path between the port and output flow channel. The connector also has a collapsible valve disposed within the cavity. The valve includes a cylindrical wall having a center axis, an internal surface, and a shoulder configured to sealingly contact the ridge of the body, thereby blocking the fluid flow path. The valve also includes a head fixedly attached to the wall. The head has a smiley cut at a first angular position about the center axis and a continuous top surface that is generally perpendicular to the axis. The valve also includes a first dimple formed in the internal surface of the cylindrical wall. The dimple extends around the internal surface over an angle in the range of 90-270°.
US09278192B2 Re-entry catheters and related methods
Catheter devices and methods useable for directing a guidewire from a subintimal position within the wall of an artery into the true lumen of that artery or other applications wherein it is desired to direct a guidewire or other elongate device from one location to another location within a subject's body.
US09278191B2 Catheter
A catheter includes a catheter shaft having a body portion and a bend that extends distally from a distal end of the body portion. In the catheter, a braid is embedded in the catheter shaft. The braid has a first wire and a second wire woven together. The first wire has a high tensile strength and the second wire has a low tensile strength that is lower than the high tensile strength of the first wire. When viewed from a proximal end of the catheter shaft, the bend forms an arc that extends in a winding direction of the first wire.
US09278189B2 Apparatus for simultaneously delivering fluid to a dual lumen catheter with a single fluid source
An apparatus comprising an input connector configured for sterile connection to a fluid source, a first tube, a second, and a third tube. The first tube extends from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end comprising an input connector configured for sterile attachment to a fluid source. The input connector provides fluid communication between the first tube and the source. The second and third tubes are each in fluid communication with the first tube. The second and third tubes each extend from a proximal end to a distal end comprising an output connector configured for sterile connection to separate fluid input ports of a catheter based device.
US09278185B2 System and method for controlling bolus pulse duration based on inspiratory time in an oxygen concentation system
A method of controlling bolus delivery in a pulse flow oxygen concentration system for a patient includes providing a pulse flow oxygen concentration system that delivers concentrated oxygen gas to the patient in boluses having a pulse bolus duration, the pulse flow oxygen concentration system including an open control for controlling the pulse bolus duration of the boluses; determining one or more respiratory conditions of the patient; and adjusting the open control to adjust the pulse bolus duration of the boluses in accordance with the determined one or more respiratory conditions of the patient.
US09278184B2 Pressure support system with inductive tubing
A pressure support system includes a gas flow generating system a patient interface device, and a tubing. The gas flow generating system includes a gas source, a controller, and a first inductive coil. The patient interface device includes a second inductive coil and an input element. The tubing is disposed between the flow generating system and the patient interface device to carry a flow of gas from the gas source to the patient interface device. The tubing includes a third inductive coil structured to transmit power and/or a signal between the first inductive coil of the pressure support system controller and the second inductive coil of the patient interface device.
US09278182B2 Devices, systems and methods for medicament delivery
An apparatus includes a label configured to be coupled to a medicament delivery device. The label includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is configured to be coupled to an outer surface of the medicament delivery device. The second surface includes a textual indicia. The label further includes an electronic circuit system configured to output an electronic signal.
US09278178B2 Rotatable guide sleeve with spring secured to prevent excessive tensioning
A dosing device for an injection device, including a dosing element moveable or rotatable in a first direction to select a dose and a guiding element for guiding a component of the injection device, the dosing element being moved or rotated relative to the guiding element to select the dose, wherein the guiding element is rotated or moved along with the dosing element when the dosing element is moved or rotated against the first direction to adjust the selected dose. A method of adjusting a dose selected by a dosing device is encompassed, the method including selecting the dose by moving or rotating a dosing element relative to a guiding element which is moved or rotated along with the dosing element during the selecting and adjusting the selected dose by moving or rotating the dosing element in an opposite direction.
US09278177B2 Medical injector with compliance tracking and monitoring
A system includes a medicament delivery device and a container configured to receive at least a portion of the medicament delivery device. The medicament delivery device includes an actuator and a first electronic circuit system. The actuator is configured to initiate delivery of a medicament into a body when the actuator is moved from a first position to a second position. The first electronic circuit system is configured to output a first electronic signal when the actuator is moved from the first position to the second position. The container includes a second electronic circuit system configured to receive the first electronic signal. The second electronic circuit system is configured to output a second electronic signal associated with the first electronic signal.
US09278175B2 Device and method for treating diverticular disease
Disclosed herein are methods and devices for treating diverticular disease. The method can include injecting a sterile fluid between a mucosal layer of the diverticulum and a serosal layer of the diverticulum to form an expanded cavity in the diverticulum comprising the sterile fluid; injecting a filler material in the expanded cavity; and removing at least a portion of the sterile fluid from the expanded cavity. The device can include a flexible overtube having a lumen; a flexible shaft at least partially disposed within the lumen of the flexible overtube; a cutting tip at a distal end of the flexible shaft; an input port fluidly coupled to the lumen of the flexible shaft; and an output port fluidly coupled to a proximal end of the lumen of the overtube. Also disclosed herein are systems and kits for treating diverticular disease.
US09278173B2 Device for administration
The application relates to a device for an intermittent or continuous administration of a therapeutical substance, such as insulin, comprising an injection part and a fluid delivery part (3,4). The fluid delivery part normally comprises a reservoir (4), transferal means e.g. in form of a pump and a house (3), and the injection part normally comprises a base plate (10), a cannula part (1,16) comprising a cannula (9) extending past the proximal side of the base plate and means for fixation of the base plate to the skin of the user. According to the application the device comprises a base plate (10), a cannula part (1, 1b) comprising a body providing a through-going opening leading liquid to a cannula (9) which cannula (9) extends past the proximal side of the base plate (10) and means (21) for fixation of the base plate to the skin of the user wherein a flexible part is arranged in an area between the subcutaneously positioned section of the cannula (9) and the fluid delivery part (3, 4).
US09278171B2 Method for detecting the ion concentrations of citrate anti-coagulated extracorporeal blood purification
The invention relates to a device for the citrate anti-coagulated extracorporeal blood purification comprising: an extracorporeal blood purification system comprising an extracorporeal blood circuit (202), which comprises a dialysis unit (205), a blood inflow (203) and a blood discharge (204), a citrate metering device (212) for supplying citrate at a citrate supply point (213) upstream of the dialysis unit (205), a substitution medium metering device (214) for supplying a substitution medium at a substitution medium supply point (215) downstream from the dialysis unit (205), at least one ion concentration measuring means (224) for measuring bivalent cations and a controller (225), wherein the controller (225) is adapted to regulate the metering of the substitution medium as a function of a comparison between a setpoint value range and the ion concentration measured by means of the ion concentration measuring means (224), wherein the ion concentration measuring means (224) is adapted for the continuous generation of measuring values and is arranged upstream of the citrate supply point (213) and the controller (225) is adapted to continuously carry out a regulation of the metering of the citrate and of the substitution medium in consideration of a target value or target value range, which can be predetermined in the controller (225) downstream from the citrate supply point (213). The invention further relates to a method for detecting the ion concentration.
US09278170B2 Carbon and its use in blood cleansing applications
Whole blood is treated extracorporeally to remove substances contrary to health using mesoporous/microporous or macroporopus/microporous carbon in the form of beads or a channel monolith. The carbon may be the result of carbonizing a mesoporous or macroporous phenolic resin. Substances contrary to health include externally introduced toxins such as bacterially derived staphylococcus enterotoxins A, B, TSST-1 or autologous, biologically active molecules with harmful, systemic effects when their activity is excessive or unregulated. Examples include the removal of inappropriate amounts of pro- or anti-inflammatory molecules and toxic mediators of systemic inflammatory response syndrome related to sepsis, cardio-pulmonary by-pass surgery, ischaemic reperfusion injury; the removal of larger molecular weight and protein bound uremic toxins related to kidney and hepatic toxins related to liver failure and the removal of toxins relevant to biological and chemical warfare.
US09278169B2 Ambulatory lung assist device with implanted blood pump and oxygenator
The present disclosure provides a system for oxygenating blood. The system may include an implantable blood pump that may draw a supply of blood from the circulatory system of a mammalian subject, such as a human being. The blood pump may provide the supply of blood to an adaptor, where the supply of blood may be supplied to either or both of a first branch or second branch. The first branch may lead to an external blood oxygenator. The oxygenator may oxygenate the blood, and the blood may be returned to the circulatory system of the mammalian subject. The second branch may bypass the oxygenator and may connect to the circulatory system of the mammalian subject. In this regard, while the blood is supplied to the second branch, the oxygenator may be disconnected and blood may be prevented from entering the first branch.
US09278164B2 Negative pressure wound therapy system
A negative pressure wound therapy system creates a negative pressure environment in the opening of a wound-dressing unit and a positive pressure environment in the collecting bag. Then a positive pressure detecting procedure is proceeded in the positive pressure environment and a negative pressure detecting procedure is proceeded in the negative pressure environment. The detecting results are sent to determine whether a micro pump is stopped.
US09278159B2 Light-activated cation channel and uses thereof
The present invention provides compositions and methods for light-activated cation channel proteins and their uses within cell membranes and subcellular regions. The invention provides for proteins, nucleic acids, vectors and methods for genetically targeted expression of light-activated cation channels to specific cells or defined cell populations. In particular the invention provides millisecond-timescale temporal control of cation channels using moderate light intensities in cells, cell lines, transgenic animals, and humans. The invention provides for optically generating electrical spikes in nerve cells and other excitable cells useful for driving neuronal networks, drug screening, and therapy.
US09278154B2 Resilient tampon and method for making
A method of making a resilient tampon includes the steps of providing binder fibers having an average fiber length of at least 35 mm; combining the binder fibers to form a loose fleece; activating the binder fibers; and compressing a portion of the loose fleece into a pledget after activating the binder fibers.A resilient tampon includes 70 wt % to 95 wt % absorbent fibers and 5 wt % to 30 wt % bicomponent binder fibers. The binder fibers have an average fiber length greater than 35 mm.
US09278151B2 Volatile material dispenser
A dispenser includes a base with a plurality of ribs for supporting a peripheral flange of a cartridge having a volatile material containing reservoir. A first removable cover is attached to the base and has at least one aperture and a first regulating plate. The first cover may be removed and replaced by at least a second cover that has at least one aperture and a second, different regulating plate.
US09278145B2 Aqueous methacetin solutions labelled with 13C having propylene glycol as a solubilizer
An analysis method determines a functional parameter of an organ by measuring 13CO2 content in exhaled air of an individual to which a substrate has been administered. The reaction of the substrate in the body of the individual enriches the exhaled air with 13CO2. The maximum reaction rate of the substrate in the body is determined via a change of the measured 13CO2 content in the exhaled air using zero-order enzyme kinetics. An aqueous methacetin solution having a pH greater than 7.0 is used in the analysis method. A face mask separates the exhaled air from inhaled air. The face mask is configured such that inhaled and exhaled air flows essentially completely through the face mask. Exhalation and inhalation valves in the face mask allow a flow of inhaled and exhaled air through the face mask. A diagnostic method is used to determine the functional parameters of the organ.
US09278141B2 Treatment of intracellular bacterial infection
An intracellular bacterial infection in a plant or animal is treated by administration to a plant cell or animal cell of a particle to which an infectious bacteriophage is covalently attached, wherein the particle is internalized by the cell. Particles with phage attached and compositions comprising the particles are provided. A formulation, for treatment of a bacterial infection, comprises bacteriophage, liquid carrier and adhesive, which dries so that the adhesive adheres the bacteriophage to a surface, one such formulation comprising liquid carrier: 85%-99.98% by weight; bacteriophage: 0.01%-5% by weight; and adhesive: 0.01%-10% by weight.
US09278140B2 Sustained release poloxamer containing pharmaceutical compositions
A thermo-reversible thermoplastic pharmaceutical composition, comprising a botulinum toxin and a biocompatible poloxamer which provides thermoreversibility to the composition and additionally stabilizes the botulinum toxin, is described. The pharmaceutical composition can be administered to a patient as a liquid, and gels after administration into a sustained release drug delivery system from which the biologically active botulinum toxin is released over a multi-day period thereby localizing the drug as a depot and controlling release to enhance the therapeutic effect per dose.
US09278137B2 Polymeric conjugates of active principles, their process of preparation and their polymeric intermediates
The present invention relates to novel conjugates of active principles grafted to a polymer, to the nanoparticles comprising them, to their preparation and to their polymeric intermediates.
US09278130B2 Lipids and compositions for intracellular delivery of biologically active compounds
The present invention provides novel amino-lipids, compositions comprising such amino-lipids and methods of producing them. In addition, lipid nanoparticles comprising the novel amino-lipids and a biologically active compound are provided, as well as methods of production and their use for intracellular drug delivery.
US09278128B2 Vaccines and immunotherapeutics comprising IL-15 receptor alpha and/or nucleic acid molecules encoding the same, and methods for using the same
Compositions, recombinant vaccines and live attenuated pathogens comprising one or more isolated nucleic acid molecules that encode an immunogen in combination with an isolated nucleic acid molecule that encodes IL-15Ra or a functional fragment thereof are disclosed. Methods of inducing an immune response in an individual against an immunogen, using such compositions are disclosed.
US09278127B2 Influenza vaccine
The present invention relates to monovalent influenza vaccine formulations and vaccination regimes for immunizing against influenza disease, their use in medicine, in particular their use in augmenting immune responses to various antigens, and to methods of preparation. In particular, the invention relates to monovalent influenza immunogenic compositions comprising an influenza antigen or antigenic preparation thereof from an influenza virus strain being associated with a pandemic outbreak or having the potential to be associated with a pandemic outbreak, in combination with an oil-in-water emulsion adjuvant comprising a metabolizable oil, a sterol and/or a tocopherol such as alpha tocopherol, and an emulsifying agent.
US09278126B2 Influenza vaccines with reduced amounts of squalene
Influenza vaccines include hemagglutinin from at least one influenza A virus strain and at least one influenza B virus strain. They also include an oil-in-water emulsion adjuvant with submicron oil droplets, comprising squalene. In some embodiments the hemagglutinin concentration is >12 μg/ml per strain. In some embodiments the squalene concentration is <19 mg/ml. In some embodiments the vaccine is mercury-free. In some embodiments the vaccine has a unit dose volume between 0.2-0.3 mL. In some embodiments the squalene concentration is 9.75 mg/mL or 4.88 mg/mL. In some embodiments the vaccine includes antigens from two influenza A virus strains and two influenza B virus strains.
US09278122B2 Fetal skin cell protein compositions for the treatment of skin conditions, disorders or diseases and methods of making and using the same
The present invention provides methods and compositions designed for treating a subject suffering from skin conditions, disorders or diseases. The compositions include fetal skin cell proteins obtained from fetal skin cells after induced cell lysis.
US09278117B2 Composition and method for the safe and effective inhibition of pancreatic lipase in mammals
Provided are a composition and method for the safe and effective inhibition of pancreatic lipase in humans and other mammals. Provided is a composition which contains extracts of one or more of Coleus forskohlii, Salacia reticulata, and Sesamum indicum, and which is administered orally to humans and other mammals in a nutritionally or pharmacologically effective amount. Further provided is a method for producing said composition.
US09278111B2 Method and apparatus for generating nitric oxide for medical use
A method and system for generating and delivering nitric oxide directly to a patient. A reaction chamber is provided that is located at or in close proximity to the patient and reactants within the reaction chamber react together to produce a predetermined amount of nitric oxide. The reaction is controlled by metering at least one of the reactants into the reaction chamber to generate a predetermined quantity of nitric oxide as required by the patient. The reactants can include a nitrite salt, such as sodium nitrite, and a reductant such as ascorbic acid, maleic acid or a mixture thereof. By generating and delivering the nitric oxide directly to the patient in close proximity thereto, the formation of NO2 is minimized. One or both of the reactants may be in liquid form.
US09278103B2 Substituted 6-amino-nicotinamides as KCNQ2/3 modulators
Substituted 6-amino-nicotinamides, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and also use of these compounds in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of pain and further diseases and/or disorders.
US09278093B2 Aldosterone synthase inhibitors
This invention relates to tricyclic triazole compounds or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. The inventive compounds selectively inhibit aldosterone synthetase. This invention also provides for pharmaceutical compositions comprising the above-cited compounds or their salts as well as potentially to methods for the treatment, amelioration or prevention of conditions that could be treated by inhibiting aldosterone synthetase.
US09278091B2 Compounds for the treatment of Clostridium difficile associated disease
Disclosed are compounds of formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable N-oxides, salts, hydrates, solvates, complexes, bioisosteres, metabolites, and prodrugs thereof, which are of use in the treatment of infection with, and diseases caused by, Clostridium difficile.
US09278087B2 Derivative of butylphthalide and preparation method and use thereof
(−)-(S)-3-(3′-hydroxy)-butylphthalide (a compound shown by Formula I) and an ester formed of the same and an acid are proved by experiments to be applicable to treatment and prevention of cerebral ischemic diseases and have a sleep-improving function. The acid refers to a pharmaceutically acceptable inorganic or organic acid. The inorganic acid refers to nitric acid, sulfuric acid, or phosphoric acid. In addition to an acid radical, the organic acid at least comprises at least one of an amino group, a hydroxyl group, and a carboxyl group. None of the compound shown by Formula I and the ester thereof is water-soluble. An ester generated from the compound and the acid further react with an acid or a base to generate a salt which is water-soluble and is used to prepare injection preparation. The experiment proves that the salt does not stimulate vessels.
US09278073B2 Tamper-resistant oral opioid agonist formulations
Oral dosage forms containing an opioid antagonist in a sequestered form are described. The opioid antagonist is sequestered such that it is not released or substantially not released in the gastrointestinal tract from the dosage form which is administered orally intact. However, when the dosage form is chewed, crushed, heated or dissolved in a solvent, and then administered orally, intranasally, parenterally or sublingually, the opioid antagonist is released and at least partially blocks effects of the opioid agonist.
US09278067B2 Encapsulation of plasmid DNA (lipogenes™) and therapeutic agents with nuclear localization signal/fusogenic peptide conjugates into targeted liposome complexes
A method is disclosed for encapsulating plasmids, oligonucleotides or negatively-charged drugs into liposomes having a different lipid composition between their inner and outer membrane bilayers and able to reach primary tumors and their metastases after intravenous injection to animals and humans. The formulation method includes complex formation between DNA with cationic lipid molecules and fusogenic/NLS peptide conjugates composed of a hydrophobic chain of about 10-20 amino acids and also containing four or more histidine residues or NLS at their one end. The encapsulated molecules display therapeutic efficacy in eradicating a variety of solid human tumors including but not limited to breast carcinoma and prostate carcinoma. Combination of the plasmids, oligonucleotides or negatively-charged drugs with other anti-neoplastic drugs (the positively-charged cis-platin, doxorubicin) encapsulated into liposomes are of therapeutic value. Also of therapeutic value in cancer eradication are combinations of encapsulated the plasmids, oligonucleotides or negatively-charged drugs with HSV-tk plus encapsulated ganciclovir.
US09278055B2 Encapsulation of personal care actives
Described are methods for encapsulating a personal care active, comprising preparing an aqueous phase, comprising partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol and a cosmetically acceptable non-ionic surfactant, preparing an oil phase, comprising the personal care active and isocyanate or polyisocyanate, homogenizing the aqueous phase and oil phase to form an emulsion with particles less than one micron, and forming a dispersion of polyurea core-shell particles containing the personal care active by contacting the emulsion with an aqueous amine solution.
US09278050B2 Dissolvable medication administration bag and method of using the same
A dissolvable medication administration bag for the safe and effective crushing and administration of medication to patients who have difficulty swallowing pills. A dissolvable medication administration bag may be constructed in accordance with a pill crusher pouch embodiment into which a pill is placed prior to being crushed and subsequently the whole of pouch and the crushed pill contents are dissolved into a liquid, e.g. a beverage, as a means of reducing health hazards associated with current pill crushing practices such as inadvertent direct contact and aerosolization with subsequent inhalation of the crushed medication.
US09278046B2 Analgesic implant device and system
An implant system for imparting vibratory massage to tissue of a patient from within the body of the patient is disclosed. The system comprises an implant device configured to produce and communicate a vibration to body tissue located adjacent to the implant device. The device many include a case forming at least a portion of an exterior of the device, and a vibration generator configured to vibrate the portion of the exterior. The device may include a power supply to supply power to the vibration generator and a switch to selectively permit power from the power supply to be supplied to the vibration generator. The device may include a power receiver to receive electrical energy from a location external to the body of the patient and a signal receiver to receive signals from a location external to the body of the patient when the receiver is located in the body of the patient.
US09278039B2 Incubator assembly
An improved incubator assembly includes a number of movable walls and a circulation system having a fluid guide apparatus adjacent each movable wall. The fluid guide apparatuses generate a first jet of air in a direction generally parallel with a wall in the closed position and a second jet of air in a direction oblique to the wall in the closed position. Whenever one of the movable walls is moved from its closed position to its open position, the jet of air that had been flowing parallel with such wall continues to flow and forms an air curtain.
US09278038B2 Supporting and maneuverable sling for bed-constrained patients
A flexible sheet with suspenders is used to safely handle and reposition bed-constrained patients. The suspenders include couplers and are used to secure either side of the flexible sheet to the side railing on a hospital bed. By wrapping the suspenders on one side of the flexible sheet over a patient and connecting them to the opposite side rail, a patient can be switched from a supine position to a turned position. A upper access hole and lower access gap in the flexible sheet then allow attendants to access the patients backside, where treatments can be applied. A flap is otherwise used to cover the upper access hole, being secured to the flexible sheet by a fold and a perimeter of hook-and-loop fasteners. The flexible sheet provides a safe patient handling method that will result in a decrease of workplace injuries.
US09278037B1 Toilet-raising platform
The toilet-raising platform includes a platform that is configured to attach to a base of a toilet, and said platform being capable of raising and lowering the toilet as needed. The platform is constructed of a gasket that is sandwiched in between a toilet base and a plate member. The plate member includes a first waste pipe that extends downwardly, and is in fluid communication with the toilet base. The first waste pipe extends downwardly through an access plate that is positioned beneath the toilet. The access plate covers a cavity that is integrated into the floor structure beneath the toilet. The cavity includes a lifting system that works to raise and lower the first waste pipe along with the plate member and toilet.
US09278034B2 Devices and methods for treating accidental bowel leakage
Described here are body liners and methods for treating accidental bowel leakage using one or more body liners. The body liners may be formed from one or more liner layers and in some instances may comprise one or more adhesive regions to connect the body liners to the skin of a wearer. The body liners may be configured to absorb fluid, and may selectively distribute fluid relative to the body liner.
US09278033B2 Contactless passive sensing for absorbent articles
An absorbent article facilitating sensing the presence of a body exudate in the absorbent article includes an absorbent member; a sensor coil disposed on or in the article; and an electrical double-layer capacitor disposed on or in the article and in electrical communication with the sensor coil, wherein the capacitor is in fluid communication with the absorbent member. An absorbent article system also includes a detector circuit including an exciter coil configured for electromagnetic communication with the sensor coil, and sensor electronics configured to indicate the presence of a body exudate based on changes in the electromagnetic communication between the exciter coil and the sensor coil.
US09278027B2 Rounded-end device, system, and method for preventing posterior capsular opacification
Disclosed herein is an apparatus selectively attachable to an ultrasonic device to disrupt target cells from underlying tissue for treatment of an ocular condition, including a shaft, a coupling portion at an end of the shaft, and a cell disrupting end extending from a distal portion of the shaft. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a first diameter. The coupling portion includes a connector portion and a hub configured to selectively couple to the ultrasonic device and impart ultrasonic vibration to the shaft. The cell disrupting end is solid and has a second diameter and a smooth, continuous, curved shape.
US09278025B1 Handheld contact applicator systems
A handheld contact applicator system comprising a handheld contact applicator assembly having a handle body having a proximate end, a distal end, an aperture, and a length, an inserter/remover assembly having a shaft, a release button, and a contact engager; wherein the handheld contact applicator system comprises the handheld contact applicator assembly. The handheld contact applicator assembly comprises the handle body and the inserter/remover assembly in cooperative and functional combination.
US09278019B2 Anchors and methods for intestinal bypass sleeves
A gastrointestinal device for implanting within a pylorus, a duodenal bulb, and a duodenum of a patient's gastrointestinal tract includes an expandable structure including a proximal portion having a plurality of spring arms and a distal portion having a plurality of spring arms, the proximal and distal portions coupled by a rigid central cylinder having a diameter capable of fitting within the pylorus and having a length greater than a width of the pylorus. An intestinal bypass sleeve is coupled to at least one of the proximal and distal portions of the expandable structure and having a length sufficient to extend at least partially into the duodenum. In the expanded configuration, the proximal portion has a diameter larger than a maximum opening diameter of the pylorus and further wherein, in the expanded configuration, the distal portion has a diameter larger than a maximum opening diameter of the pylorus.
US09278015B2 Catheter system for stenting and drug treatment of bifurcated vessels
A catheter system and method are described for stenting a vessel at a bifurcation or sidebranch of the vessel. The catheter system includes a first balloon catheter, a second balloon catheter and a releasable linking device for holding the first and second balloon catheters arranged in a side-by-side configuration and aligned with one another along a longitudinal axis so that the catheter system can be advanced as a unit. The catheter system is combined with drug eluting technology to prevent restenosis, inflammation and/or thrombosis and/or to promote reendothelialization in the vessel bifurcation. The main vessel stent and/or the sidebranch stent may be coated or impregnated with one or more drugs or bioactive substances. Alternatively or in addition, the first balloon and/or the second balloon may be coated with or include a mechanism for delivering one or more drugs or bioactive substances to the vessel wall.
US09278014B2 Method for aligning a prosthesis
A computerized prosthesis alignment system includes a transducer that can measure socket reactions in the anterior/posterior plane and the right/left planes, while canceling or reducing the transverse forces on the measurements of these socket reactions. In addition, the transducer is also capable of determining the axial load or weight experienced by the prosthesis. The computerized prosthesis alignment system is in communication with a host computer. The moment data from the transducer is interpreted by the user via a computer interface. The host computer includes memory for storing one or more applications. These applications receive data from the transducer, interpret the data with discrete algebraic or fuzzy logic algorithms, and display the output numerically and graphically. Applications may also interpret the data to provide analyses to the user for aligning the prosthesis.
US09278006B2 Ankle prosthesis with neutral position adjustment
An ankle prosthesis (1) having a talar implant (2) designed to be implanted in or on the talus (3), a tibial implant (4) designed to be implanted in or on the tibia (5), and an intermediate implant (6) designed to be interposed between the tibial implant and the talar implant. The intermediate implant (6) is designed to be mounted to move relative to the talar implant (2) at a contact interface (7) in order to allow the ankle to move. The ankle prosthesis (1) has configurable coupling means (10) designed to enable the intermediate implant (6) to be arranged relative to the tibial implant (4) in a specific configuration chosen from among a plurality of possible configurations.
US09278003B2 Prosthesis for cementless fixation
A joint prosthesis system is suitable for cemented fixation. The system has two metal implant components and a bearing. One of the metal implant components has an articulation surface for articulation with the bearing. The other metal implant component has a mounting surface for supporting the bearing. One of the metal implant components includes an extension, such as a stem or pegs, with an exposed outer surface. The metal implant component from which the extension extends comprises titanium and the exposed outer surface of the extension comprises a different form of titanium. A method of making the joint prosthesis is also disclosed.
US09277993B2 Medical device delivery systems
Medical device delivery systems and methods for making and using medical device delivery systems are disclosed. An example medical device delivery system may include an outer sheath. An inner catheter may be disposed within the outer sheath. The inner catheter may have a distal end. A tube extension may be coupled to the distal end of the inner catheter and may extend distally therefrom. The tube extension may be configured to shift between a first elongated configuration and a second shortened configuration.
US09277986B2 Systems and methods for mastopexy
A mastopexy implant for maintaining the breast in an elevated and aesthetically pleasing position includes a lower pole support comprising end portions which may be affixed to the chest wall or to a previously installed upper suspension strut. The implant is loaded in an insertion device. The insertion device is inserted through a small incision and into a subcutaneous pocket created in an inferior half of the breast. The lower pole support may have various constructs and in one embodiment includes a unitary conformable mesh having a plurality of arm or band members which are attached across the breast parenchyma and to the chest wall.
US09277977B2 Dental floss
A dental floss apparatus for cleaning the gaps between adjacent teeth which is comprised of a pair of handles that are configured for engagement with the fingers and having one or a plurality of strands of flossing substrate extending therebetween. The floss extends within an opening formed between the ends of the two handles, during tensioned employment of the handles by a user. A dissolvable component may be positioned within the opening through an engagement with one or both of the handles or the flossing substrate. The dissolvable component dissolves to a solution during use to deposit a residue on the surface of the teeth. The solution from the dissolving component may be colorized or fluorescent, and have an additive material such as mouthwash, breath freshener, cooling agent, or flavor.
US09277976B2 Dental floss
A dental floss apparatus for cleaning the gaps between adjacent teeth which is comprised of a pair of handles that are configured for engagement with the fingers with strands of flossing substrate extending therebetween. The flossing substrate runs substantially parallel and extends within an opening formed between the ends of the two handles, during tensioned employment of the handles by a user. A dissolvable component is positioned within the opening through an engagement with one or both of the handles or the flossing substrate. The dissolvable component dissolves to a solution during use to deposit a residue on the surface of the teeth. The solution from the dissolving component may be colorized or fluorescent, and have an additive material such as mouthwash, breath freshener, cooling agent, or flavor.
US09277969B2 Microwave ablation system with user-controlled ablation size and method of use
Disclosed is a system and method for enabling user preview and control of the size and shape of an electromagnetic energy field used in a surgical procedure. The disclosed system includes a selectively activatable source of microwave surgical energy in the range of about 900 mHz to about 5 gHz in operable communication with a graphical user interface and a database. The database is populated with data corresponding to the various surgical probes, such as microwave ablation antenna probes, that may include a probe identifier, the probe diameter, operational frequency of the probe, ablation length of the probe, ablation diameter of the probe, a temporal coefficient, a shape metric, and the like. The probe data is graphically presented on the graphical user interface where the surgeon may interactively view and select an appropriate surgical probe. Three-dimensional views of the probe(s) may be presented allowing the surgeon to interactively rotate the displayed image.
US09277967B2 Universally-sized grommet device and method thereof
A grommet device and method of using a grommet device is provided. The device includes a base structure having a base surface and a top structure having a top surface. A middle portion is connected between the top structure and the base structure, wherein an aperture is positioned through the middle portion, the aperture having an interior space defined by an aperture sidewall extending from the base surface to the top surface. A protruding structure is affixed to a portion of the aperture sidewall at a first end and extending towards a central axis of the aperture along a protrusion axis, wherein the protrusion axis is substantially aligned with a length of the protruding structure from the first end to the second end, and wherein a second end of the protruding structure is flexibly movable in at least one direction substantially perpendicular to the protrusion axis.
US09277964B1 Laser treatment of body injuries and defects
Wave energy is directed into a body. A condition within the body is observed by reflection from effects within the body. An internal target is located. Wave energy is focused on the target within the body and is increased in intensity to treat the target. A hand held instrument passivates or moves scalp from a skull, and converges, diverges or collimates near infrared laser beams through a skull and into interior tissue. Reflected energy reveals vessels edema or bleeding. Vessel targets are identified. Infrared laser beams are directed, triggered and intensified to coagulate or constrict the vessel. The hand held instrument is a wand connected to a laser source, processor, display and power source. The power supply, processor, infrared laser, display and laser director are mounted on a hand held unit for field use by technicians and medics to prevent time delay and further injury.
US09277955B2 Power generating and control apparatus for the treatment of tissue
Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for the generation and control of energy delivery in a dosage to elicit a therapeutic response in diseased tissue. A balloon catheter can have electrodes attached to a power generator and controller such that the balloon and electrodes contact tissue during energy treatment. Energy selectively may be applied to tissue based on measured impedance to achieve gentle heating. Calibration of the apparatus and identification of attached accessories by computing the circuit impedance prior to energy dosage facilitate regulation of power delivery about a set point. Energy delivery can be controlled to achieve substantially uniform bulk tissue temperature distribution. Energy delivery may beneficially affect nerve activity.
US09277936B2 Surgical instrument having an integrated local anesthetic delivery system
A surgical instrument includes a handle portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a substantially hollow body defining a valve chamber therein; a curved incising tube partially housed within the handle portion adjacent the handle portion proximal end, extending a predetermined distance from the handle portion, and in fluid communication with the valve chamber; a local anesthetic inlet tube partially housed within the handle portion adjacent the handle portion distal end, extending a predetermined distance from the handle portion, and in fluid communication with the valve chamber; a local anesthetic delivery actuator disposed on the handle portion, whereby the local anesthetic delivery actuator is selectively operative between opened and closed valve chamber positions.
US09277931B2 Oral care implement
An oral care implement for cleaning a user's tongue and/or soft tissue surfaces. In one aspect, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising: a handle extending along a longitudinal axis; first and second prong members extending from a distal end of the handle, each of the first and second prong members diverging from the longitudinal axis and having a distal end; a blade for scraping soft tissue, the blade extending between the distal ends of the first and second prong members; and the blade integrally formed with the first and second prong members, the first and second prong members transitioning into the blade at the distal ends of the first and second prong members.
US09277917B2 Lattice stitch surgical tensioning device with horizontal patency
A lattice stitch surgical tension-limiting device, designed to be used in lattice stitch repair of wounds in biologic tissue. The device is tied to the surface of biologic tissue to be repaired by a lattice stitch. The device is designed to limit the tension in the lattice stitch, to allow placement of the lattice stitch without the need of an assistant and “instrument tie”, to help displace tension away from the surface of the body tissues, to enhance the properties of the lattice stitch in tissue shear reduction, and manage rotational forces affecting the repair as the lattice stitch draws the wound together to a closed condition. The device remains on the tissue surface during the wound healing period and is removed with the lattice stitch when wound healing is complete.
US09277911B2 Suture anchor system with compressible distal tip
Methods and devices for fixation of soft tissue to bone are provided. In one embodiment, a suture anchor is provided having an elongate cylindrical body with proximal and distal ends and an inner lumen extending therethrough. The elongate body can be configured so that upon partial insertion into a bone hole, it is securely anchored within the bone hole and a suture extending through the inner lumen is freely slidable. It can also configured so that, upon further insertion into the bone hole, at least a portion of the elongate body compresses to lock the suture within the inner lumen such that the suture is prevented from sliding. In another embodiment, a suture anchor is provided having arms that have an open position for receiving a suture therebetween, and a closed position in which the suture is retained but allowed to slide freely.
US09277908B2 Retractor
A retractor (101) for retracting the margins of a wound opening (103) comprises an inner anchoring O-ring (105) attached to a cylindrical sleeve (106) at a distal end and a reinforcing O-ring (109) attached to a proximal end of the sleeve (106). The sleeve (106) is led between an inner ring part (110) and a corresponding recess (116) in an outer ring part (111). The outer ring part (111) has anchor formations (120) over which the proximal end of the sleeve (106) is attached to anchor the sleeve (106). To retract the wound opening (103) the sleeve (106) is pulled while the guide rings (110, 111) are moved against the tissue surrounding the wound opening (103). This pulls the inner O-ring (105) against the inside of the tissue adjacent the wound opening (103), and retracts the wound opening (103). The sleeve (106) is manipulated locally for maximum retraction efficiency.
US09277901B2 Pulse compression systems and methods
Systems and methods of optimal pulse compression are described. A method of determining an optimal pulse takes as an input a function of the impulse response of a transducer and produces a pulse optimized for transmission through that transducer. Images then produced with that transducer will have both superior range and spatial resolution.
US09277897B1 Multi-beam stereoscopic X-ray body scanner
An X-ray examination station includes a first source of X-ray radiation for whole body scanning of a human body using a first fan beam of X-ray radiation; a first vertical linear radiation detector configured to detect the first fan beam; a second source of X-ray radiation installed at mid-height of a person being examined, for scanning a central portion of the human body using a second fan beam of X-ray radiation; a second vertical detector of X-ray radiation configured to detect the second fan beam; and a control unit configured to turn on each of the X-ray radiation sources. The first and the second radiation fan beams are emitted in parallel planes. The first X-ray radiation source is turned on for the whole body scanning. The second X-ray radiation source is turned on for scanning the central portion of the body.
US09277892B2 Device for monitoring sleeping individuals
Methods and apparatuses monitor and evaluate the movement and sounds of an individual in a sleeping structure to identify individual movement and sound activities that are outside acceptable movement and sound tolerances. Similarly, the methods and apparatuses monitor and evaluate the gases surrounding the individual and the temperature and humidity to identify environmental conditions that are outside acceptable environmental tolerances. The methods and apparatuses constantly and dynamically change the acceptable movement and sound tolerances and the acceptable environmental tolerances based on the age of the individual and based on historical monitoring of the movement and sounds of the individual, historical monitoring of the gases surrounding the individual, and historical monitoring of the temperature and humidity surrounding the individual. The methods and apparatuses cause the input/output device to provide an audible warning and at least one electronic message warning based on movement, sound, and environmental conditions being outside acceptable tolerances.
US09277889B2 Patient signal analysis based on actiniform segmentation
Disclosed herein is a framework for facilitating patient signal analysis. In accordance with one aspect, actiniform segmentation is performed on patient signal data waveform based on an actiniform shape. The actiniform shape is centered at a peak of the waveform and includes connection lines extending from the peak to key time points of the patient signal data waveform. Actiniform parameters may be extracted from the segmented patient signal data waveform. Additionally, one or more actiniform ratios may be determined based on the actiniform parameters to monitor changes in the patient signal data waveform.
US09277883B2 Method for controlling gait-training apparatus using biofeedback
A method for controlling gait-training apparatus using biofeedback is provided. A biosignal-detecting loop is used to detect and analyze the electromyographic signal of a user using the gait-training apparatus. A feedback control loop is used to drive the gait-training apparatus and determine the fatigue level of the user. When the user's muscle starts to become fatigue, the feedback control loop can further adjust the threshold for triggering the gait-training apparatus to retain the training session so that the training intensity can be regulated on-line and the user's muscle can be trained effectively based on the concept of progressive overload.
US09277882B2 Sensor for contactless electrocardiographic measurement
A sensor for contactless electrocardiographic measurement on a person includes a carrier for mounting to a seat, an electrode for registering a measurement signal, a pressure sensor supporting the electrode on the carrier, and moisture and temperature sensors mounted to the carrier to detect conditions adjacent to the electrode and the subject person. The moisture sensor and the temperature sensor may be adjacent to at least one opening in the electrode. A processing unit receives information generated by the pressure sensor, the moisture sensor, and the temperature sensor, and filters the measurement signal based on the information. An acceleration sensor may also be mounted to the carrier and/or electrode and send signals to the processor.
US09277880B2 Multi-stream data collection system for noninvasive measurement of blood constituents
The present disclosure relates to noninvasive methods, devices, and systems for measuring various blood constituents or analytes, such as glucose. In an embodiment, a light source comprises LEDs and super-luminescent LEDs. The light source emits light at least wavelengths of about 1610 nm, about 1640 nm, and about 1665 nm. In an embodiment, the detector comprises a plurality of photodetectors arranged in a special geometry comprising one of a substantially linear substantially equal spaced geometry, a substantially linear substantially non-equal spaced geometry, and a substantially grid geometry.
US09277873B2 Computatonal tool for pre-surgical evaluation of patients with medically refractory epilepsy
A method of identifying an epileptogenic zone of a subject's brain includes receiving a plurality of electrical signals from a corresponding plurality of surgically implanted electrodes, calculating a first plurality of connectivities between each pair of electrodes based on a portion of each of the plurality of electrical signals corresponding to a first time period, assigning a rank corresponding to each electrode for the first period of time based on the first plurality of connectivities to provide a first plurality of ranks, calculating a second plurality of connectivities between each pair of electrodes based on a portion of each of the plurality of electrical signals corresponding to a second time period, assigning a rank corresponding to each electrode for the second period of time based on the second plurality of connectivities to provide a second plurality of ranks, identifying a cluster of electrodes among the plurality of electrodes based on relative changes between the first plurality of ranks from the first time period and the second plurality of ranks at the second time period, and identifying the epileptogenic zone based on the cluster of electrodes.
US09277866B2 Method and apparatus for analysis of turbid media via single-element detection using structured illumination
Method and apparatus for obtaining qualitative and quantitative analysis of the optical properties or structures of tissue or turbid medium at one or more wavelengths via 1) detection at a single spatial location on the surface of a turbid medium (such as tissue) under two or more structured light conditions or 2) detection at two or more spatial locations on the surface under a single structured light condition.
US09277864B2 Modular wearable sensor device
A wearable sensor and method for providing a wearable sensor are disclosed. In a first aspect, the wearable sensor comprises at least one power source and a first module coupled to the at least one power source. The first module includes a first outer shell and a first printed circuit board (PCB) within the first outer shell. The wearable sensor further comprises a second module coupled to the first module. The second module includes a second outer shell and a second PCB within the second outer shell. One of the first and second modules is disposable and the other of the first and second modules is reusable.
US09277862B2 Method and system to identify intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye
Non-tactile and non-evasive tonometer utilizing air flow with a definite amount of pressure to the eye and a mechanism to deflate the thin foil set that is placed near to eye ball such that re-bounded air hits on it. The mechanism involves acquiring or capturing then the images of the known pattern marking on thin foils both before and after deflating process due to rebounded air. On evaluating the deformation of the pattern appearing in the images obtained before and after air flow and calibrating the deformation with respect to size, translation, rotation and scaling parameters due the different pressure level that hits the eye ball and that rebounds on to thin foils, we arrive at a scheme of measuring the intraocular pressure of human eye. This intraocular pressure is used as a parameter for the ophthalmologist to diagnose glaucoma impairment of human beings.
US09277861B2 Automatic image optimization system, particularly for stereomicroscopes
The invention relates to a device for examining an eye, particularly a human eye, comprising: an optical unit that is designed to generate a current image of a current intermediate image, wherein the optical unit comprises an objective, an additional lens that is designed to be arranged in front of an eye along an optical axis of the optical unit in order to generate said current intermediate image of a posterior structure of said eye, and wherein said additional lens is designed to be movable relative to said optical unit so as to generate a sharp and particularly reflection-free current image of said posterior structure with help of said optical unit. According to the invention, the device comprises a first actuator means that is designed to move the additional lens and which is controlled depending on the current image. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for examining an eye.
US09277855B2 Endoscopic system for enhanced visualization
A medical device, configured for insertion into a body, may include an elongate member extending from a proximal end to a distal end, where the distal end may be configured to be positioned inside the body. The medical device may also include an imaging device positioned at the distal end. The medical device may further include a plurality of light sources positioned at the distal end, wherein a characteristic of light delivered through a first light source may be controlled independent of the characteristic of light delivered through a second light source.
US09277850B2 Endoscope integrity tester including context-sensitive compensation and methods of context-sensitive integrity testing
Computer systems and software for controlling an endoscope integrity tester. The pressurization and humidity measurement and calculations, and the resulting determination of passage or failure is automated and controlled to eliminate concerns of human error in the detection process. Further, the computer system is capable of adapting its calculations to specific endoscopes and particular testing changes to further improve accuracy by being context-sensitive.
US09277849B2 Combination dishwashing machine and sink
In one aspect of the present invention, a combination dishwashing machine and sink that utilizes a first use solution includes a dishwashing machine, a sump, a pump, a sink, a first fluid passageway, and a controller. The sump is in fluid communication with the dishwashing machine and is configured and arranged to contain the first use solution utilized in the dishwashing machine. The pump is in fluid communication with the sump, and the first fluid passageway interconnects the pump and the sink. The controller is operatively connected to the pump and is programmed to signal the pump to direct the first use solution from the sump, through the first fluid passageway, and into the sink. The controller automates the filling of the sink with the first use solution from the sump.
US09277841B2 Food processor with a magnetized tool
The invention refers to a mechanical food treatment processor comprising a driving block topped by a bowl. The driving block comprises a motor connected to a driving device having a substantially vertical axis. The bottom of the bowl comprises an opening to allow the passage of the driving device. The processor further comprises a food treatment tool having a fitting device to be fitted onto the driving device and a magnetizing device exerting a force of attraction between the food treatment tool and the bowl. Thus, it is possible to tilt the bowl with the claimed invention while preventing the treatment tool from inopportunely falling. The tool remains easily dismountable from the bowl and the driving device.
US09277833B1 Multi-destination checkout system and related methods
A checkout stand includes a first extendable conveyor extending in a first direction for delivering one or more articles to a first bagging station. A second conveyor is provided for conveying one or more articles from the first conveyor to at least a second bagging station. A scanner may be provided for scanning the articles, such as during delivery by an infeed conveyor upstream of the first conveyor. A controller may control the first conveyor to selectively divert articles between the first and second bagging stations. Related methods are also disclosed.
US09277823B2 Motor assembly for reclining furniture
A motor assembly for reclining furniture includes a motor having one or more first fittings that correspond to one or more second fittings comprised within reclining furniture actuation mechanism and the first and second fittings are configured to be mutually connectable without tools or fasteners.
US09277810B2 Trading desk
A frame for a trading desk is made up of two end frames arranged to extend vertically in use. Between those end frames there is a main support beam structure which may include a pair of main structural beams for example. The main support beam may be extended from a lower part of the end frames, close to the floor and provides the main structural rigidity of the desk. A computer trolley is provided which supports computers just above the main support beam and has a channel arranged to receive the main support beam.
US09277807B2 Tree stand table device
A tree stand table device provides a table surface proximate a tree stand. The device includes a surface and an arm coupled to and extending from the surface. The arm has a distal end relative to the surface. A threaded stud is coupled to and extends from the distal end of the arm for coupling to a tree proximate a tree stand such that the surface is accessible to a person perched in the tree stand.
US09277804B1 Handheld carrier for cellphone and accesories
A handheld carrier for a cellphone and accessories with a cellphone holder that permits the front face of the cellphone to be exposed for use and the rear covered by a rear wall. First and second accessory holders are provided, each having an inner and outer wall forming an interior enclosure for holding accessories. The inner wall of the first accessory holder is mounted to the rear wall of the cellphone holder and the inner wall of the second accessory holder is mounted to the outer wall of the first accessory holder. Optionally, these are removable mountings, e.g., hook/loop, providing for interchangeability of holders. A hand strap with first and second ends is provided, the first end is preferably removably mounted to a side of the cellphone holder or an accessory holder, the second end is removably mounted to an opposed side of the same cellphone holder or accessory holder.
US09277803B2 Attachment and lock for baton in a holster
Implement lock assembly for retaining batons, nightsticks, and other handheld devices within a holster. The assembly includes a base, a lock, and a release. Operation of the assembly is by a user applying pressure to the lock, pivotally moving the lock from an open position to a closed position. In the normal open position, an implement may be inserted or removed from the holster. In the closed position, the lock retains the implement within the holster. The lock may be opened by applying pressure to the release. The lock may engage and retain a baton along the length of the baton grip, allowing a user to adjust the position of the baton within the holster when the baton is retained by the lock.
US09277795B2 Box for packing
Provided is a box includes a box body having an opened upper portion; a first cover openably disposed to seal the opened portion of the box body; a second cover openably disposed to overlap on at least partially; and a slide button operably disposed on the second cover to fix the second cover to the first cover.
US09277794B2 Versatile walking cane
A versatile walking cane that has an adjustable length and a jaw-grip. The walking cane includes a trigger that can be actuated to mechanically operate the jaw-grip from an open to a closed position. In the closed position, the jaw-grip is retracted into the interior of the cane and does not obstruct the use of the cane for walking. The cane includes an interface for receiving additional tools and an illumination source.
US09277781B2 Sports face guard
A face guard has a construction of interconnected struts, and creates an unobstructed viewing aperture proximate to the eyes of a wearer during use. The face guard includes a forward transverse sill defining at least one boundary of the viewing aperture. The forward transverse sill includes at least two generally transverse struts extending across the front of the face of a wearer during use. Surfaces at the proximal and distal edges of the transverse sill are spaced linearly apart and lie approximately along a common viewing axis of a wearer during use. The sill presents a reduced profile in the field of view of a wearer while presenting an increased surface for contact with an incoming projectile such as a ball, allowing the ball to be impeded and deflected.
US09277775B2 Belt with interchangeable accessories
The belt with interchangeable accessories is formed of a soft, resilient elastomer and includes a series of notches along its upper and lower edges. An accessory or accessories is/are adapted for removable and interchangeable installation on the belt. Each accessory has a pair of elastic loops extending from the back thereof. Each loop passes through corresponding notches of the belt to secure the accessory removably to the belt. The accessories may comprise a large number of different configurations, e.g., two-dimensional and three-dimensional representations, storage compartments for makeup or other purposes, mirrors or other reflective surfaces, electrically lighted displays, etc. A removable buckle is provided. The rearward portion of the buckle has a passage therethrough, the passage gripping one end of the belt therein. The overlying portion of the buckle has a channel and openable cover for removably securing the opposite end of the belt in the resulting passage.
US09277766B2 Tabletop semi-automatic cigarette-making machine
A semi-automatic cigarette-making machine of the tobacco-injecting type including a housing with an aperture and a compacting chamber in communication with the aperture for receiving loose tobacco, a compacting member mounted for manual reciprocal up and down motion from an initial position adjacent the top of the compacting chamber toward the bottom of the compacting chamber in response to the rotation of a pair of opposed gears, and an injection spoon mounted for automatic powered reciprocal lateral movement from a rest position within the compacting chamber across the compacting chamber to transport rod-like compacted tobacco shapes past the ejection side of the compacting chamber and into a hollow cigarette tube.
US09277761B2 Nutrition trace element composition
The present invention relates to a composition with trace elements for nutrition. The composition is characterized by an increased content of selenium and/or zinc as a trace element.
US09277747B2 Agricultural composition comprising pH sensitive agricultural chemicals and organic pH buffer
The invention provides a composition in concentrated form (“the concentrate”) for dilution with water in the preparation of an agricultural composition for application to crops, soil or animals, comprising a carbohydrate-based pH modifying agent and a pH indicator. The agricultural composition comprises an agricultural chemical whose agricultural activity varies with the pH of the water. The proportions of the pH indicator and the pH modifying agent in the concentrate are selected so that when the concentrate is diluted with an appropriate amount of water, the pH indicator indicates visually by coloration of the composition, whether or not the pH of the water is suitable for acceptable agricultural activity of the chemical. The invention also provides a process for preparing the agricultural composition by mixing the concentrate with water, and adding the agricultural chemical to the composition, if it is not already present in the concentrate.
US09277746B2 Liquid composition, process for producing the liquid composition, and ectoparasite controlling agent for use in mammals and avians
A liquid composition comprising (a) 21 to 70 parts by weight of a solvent having no nitrogen atom and having a carbonyl or sulfonyl group in the molecule, (b) 30 to 78.9 parts by weight of at least one component selected from the group consisting of a non-cyclic alcohol, an alkylene glycol, a polyalkylene glycol, a triol, a glycol monoacetate and a glycol monoalkyl ether, (c) 0.001 to 30 parts by weight of a physiologically active ingredient, and (d) 0.001 to 49 parts by weight of water.
US09277740B2 Pest control method and apparatus
An apparatus to project toward a tree to disburse a pheromone, comprising: a releaser removably adjacent to a capsule via an extension; whereby said releaser and said capsule are disposed adjacent to each other in a deployable state, then the releaser separates from the capsule but is still connected via said extension whereby inertia causes said releaser to move away from said capsule into an attachment state, and related methods of applying a pheromone onto a tree branch.
US09277739B1 Water-activated bobber release device
A water-activated bobber release device is used to retrieve a submerged item to which it is attached. The device has a housing, a spring, a bobber assembly having a bobber, a spool and a central hole, a bobbin assembly having a framework surrounding a center hole and a dissolvable tablet within the framework, a screw having a flared head engaging the framework and an elongated threaded section extending through the central hole and the center hole, and a fastener connected to the screw holding the spring in compression when the tablet is solidified. The device also has a line wrapped around the spool connecting the bobber assembly to the housing or the item. When submerged in water, the tablet dissolves, and the spring forces the screw's head through the bobbin assembly, thereby jettisoning the bobber assembly from the housing where it is free to float to the surface for retrieval.
US09277729B1 Automated pet cage
The automated pet cage includes a locking assembly for the door of the pet case, which is able to remotely or autonomously unlock and open the door of the pet cage as needed or in an emergency. The locking assembly is integrated into the design of the door of the pet cage, and provides for manual or autonomous operation in order to open the pet cage in a plurality of situations. The locking assembly is in communication with a display console that is in control over operation of the automated pet cage. The display console can remotely interface with a cellular telephone/Bluetooth enabled device in order to receive remote instructions in order to open the door of the pet cage. The display console also communicates wirelessly with the locking assembly.
US09277727B2 Lettuce line SV7735LD
The invention provides seed and plants of the lettuce line designated SV7735LD. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of lettuce line SV7735LD, and to methods for producing a lettuce plant produced by crossing a plant of lettuce line SV7735LD with itself or with another lettuce plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of lettuce line SV7735LD, including the gametes of such plants.
US09277726B2 Pennylea lettuce variety
A new lettuce variety designated ‘Pennylea’ is described. ‘Pennylea’ is a crisp lettuce variety exhibiting stability and uniformity.
US09277724B2 Soybean variety 01046644
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01046644. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01046644. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01046644 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01046644 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09277717B2 Soybean variety 01046009
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01046009. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01046009. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01046009 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01046009 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09277713B2 Soybean variety 01045751
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01045751. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01045751. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01045751 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01045751 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09277697B2 Compositions and methods for anti-transpiration in plants
Methods and compositions comprising design of enlarged pectins are provided. Elaborated pectins are useful for a multitude of functions including surface coating, penetrant, additive and gell. Methods according to the present invention comprise steps for treatments to one or more live pectic cells in one or more compositions that result in modified pectins. In specific embodiments, methods are provided for applying the nanotechnology to live cells for carriage and incorporation of polar compounds.
US09277694B2 Pneumatically powered pole saw
A pneumatic valve assembly with a trigger for switching the pneumatic valve assembly between two or more valve operation modes is disclosed herein. The valve operational modes are determined by selection of fluid conduits by a trigger valve assembly of the pneumatic valve assembly which interconnects fluid conduits to a main valve, pilot valves and a pneumatic cylinder of a fluid powered pole saw and wherein a piston located in the pneumatic cylinder is mechanically coupled to a cutting blade of the pole saw and the trigger is operatively coupled to the trigger valve assembly.
US09277691B2 Hydraulically tilting dual bale spear
A hydraulically tilting dual bale spear having multiple bale tines is presented. The bale spear has a first frame and a second frame connected to one another at a pivot point. A hydraulic cylinder is positioned between the first frame member and the second frame member. When activated, the hydraulic cylinder tilts the second frame with respect to the first frame member thereby providing a safer, faster and more efficient way to gather and pick up bales. The benefit over a non-tilting dual bale spear is that it allows the operator to pick up two bales without stopping or dragging the first bale across the ground and ripping the net wrap. It also allows the operator to level out the two bales once picked up for easier off load onto a truck or trailer.
US09277687B2 Tiller housing
A tiller includes a tiller frame and an upright assembly extending from the frame. The frame is supported by at least one wheel and defines a cavity. A transmission assembly is supported by the frame and has an output member that is configured to be drivingly coupled to a first power source in a first battery-powered configuration and to a second power source in a second electric-powered configuration. A tilling implement includes a drive shaft that is driven by the output member. The tilling implement comprises at least one tine plate. The cavity is configured to removably receive a battery in the first battery-powered configuration and removably receive a ballast in the second electric-powered configuration.
US09282686B2 System and method for high resolution, high throughput processing of conductive patterns of flexible substrates
Alignment markers are added to each layer of a multiple layer substrate for proper alignment. Optical alignment markers are applied on the surface of each substrate layer. Groups of alignment markers are arranged in localized areas on each substrate layer. Each localized group of alignment markers are referred to as alignment target areas. The alignment markers in a first alignment target area on the first substrate layer are to be aligned with corresponding alignment markers in a second alignment target area on the second substrate layer. In some embodiments, the first alignment target area includes an alignment marker configured for manual alignment and another alignment marker configured for machine alignment. The second alignment target area has a corresponding manual alignment marker and machine alignment marker.
US09282684B2 Cooling systems for electrical equipment
A space-saving, high-density modular data center and an energy-efficient cooling system for a modular data center are disclosed. The modular data center includes a first cooling circuit including a primary cooling device and a plurality of modular data pods. Each modular data pod includes a plurality of servers, a heat exchange member coupled to the first cooling circuit and a second cooling circuit coupled to the heat exchange member and configured to cool the plurality of servers, the second cooling circuit including a secondary cooling device configured to cool fluid flowing through the second cooling circuit. Each modular data pod also includes an auxiliary enclosure containing at least a portion of a distributed mechanical cooling system, which is configured to trim the cooling performed by a central free-cooling system.
US09282681B2 Dissipating heat during device operation
Apparatus for dissipating heat during the operation of a device. In accordance with some embodiments, the apparatus compares spaced-apart first and second heat sources. A thermally conductive plate is disposed between the first and second heat sources. A thermal interface layer is contactingly disposed between the plate and the first heat source, and has a relatively higher thermal conductivity so that heat generated by the first heat source passes through the thermal interface layer and to the plate. A thermal barrier layer is contactingly disposed between the plate and the second heat source to mechanically support the plate relative to the second heat source. The thermal barrier layer has a relatively lower thermal conductivity to thermally isolate the conductive plate from the second heat source.
US09282662B2 Electronic device including retractable bolt member
In one implementation, an electronic device comprises a first housing portion including a wall and a detent member on the interior of the wall and a second housing portion to attach to the first housing portion to form an enclosure. A retractable bolt member mounted in the second housing portion can engage the detent member in a first position and can disengage the detent member in a second position. The bolt member can be resiliently biased to the first position and at least part of the bolt member has magnetic properties that force the bolt member to be repelled to the second position if a magnetic field is applied outside the wall adjacent the detent to interact with the bolt member, so that the first housing portion can be detached from the second housing portion.
US09282659B2 Snap door structure for electronic devices
The present invention discloses a snap door structure configured with an opening and a snap joint part. The snap door structure comprises a door cover, a switch puller and a stopper. The door cover is pivotally connected to the electronic device and installed in correspondence with the opening. The switch puller is connected to the door cover and slidable with respect thereto, in which the switch puller includes a clip joint segment and a snap connection part. The stopper is fixedly set to the door cover and clip latched between the door cover and the switch puller. The stopper has an elastic arm, in which the elastic arm along with the clip joint segment enable a multi-staged position adjustment function in order to cause the snap connection part to be correspondingly buckled to the snap joint part thus allowing coverage of the door cover on the opening.
US09282658B1 Assembly structure for use in storage media of server
An assembly structure for use in a storage media of server includes: a base, formed with an accommodation space for accommodating a storage media; and a rotary cover plate, one end thereof is rotatably pivoted on the base, and the rotary cover plate includes a top plate, a push plate and a force plate. The push plate and the force plate are oppositely arranged at two sides of the top plate. The rotary cover plate is able to be engaged relative to the base thereby enabling the force plate to push the storage media for being electrically connected to the base, or to be opened relative to the base thereby enabling the push plate to push the storage media for being disconnected with the base. Accordingly, the storage media is enabled to be easily assembled or detached.
US09282656B2 Gaskets for thermal ducting around heat pipes
The disclosed embodiments provide a component for a portable electronic device. The component includes a gasket containing a rigid portion disposed around a bottom of a heat pipe, wherein the rigid portion forms a duct between a fan and an exhaust vent of the electronic device. The gasket also includes a first flexible portion bonded to the rigid portion, wherein the first flexible portion comprises a flap that is open during assembly of the heat pipe in the electronic device and closed over the heat pipe and the rigid portion to seal the duct around the heat pipe after the assembly.
US09282653B2 Enhanced glass impact durability through application of thin films
Apparatus, systems and methods for characteristics of glass components through use of one or more coatings are disclosed. The coatings are typically thin coatings, such as thin film coatings. The coatings can serve to increase strength of the glass components and/or provide durable user interfacing surfaces. Accordingly, glass articles that have received coatings are able to be not only thin but also sufficiently strong so as to resist damage from impact events. The coated glass articles are well suited for use in consumer products, such as consumer electronic devices (e.g., electronic devices).
US09282652B2 Portable computing device with a housing secured by a magnetic element and related method
Magnetic elements and attractors may be employed to secure a top case and a bottom case of a housing of a personal computing device. The magnetic elements may include a magnet that produces a magnetic field and a shunt. The shunt may direct the magnetic field through an opening to a pocket in which the magnet is received. Accordingly, flux leakage may be reduced and the bottom case may be secured to the top case. Magnetic elements and attractors may also be employed to secure a lid portion of the portable computing device to the housing thereof. These magnetic elements and attractors may be centered with respect to proximal and distal edges thereof
US09282649B2 Stand-off block
An apparatus may be provided. The apparatus may comprise a substrate and a circuit board. A ball grid array structure may be disposed between the substrate and the circuit board. In addition, a stand-off structure may be disposed between the substrate and the circuit board. The stand-off structure may be adjacent to the ball grid array structure.
US09282640B2 Interconnection element with posts formed by plating
An interconnection element is provided for conductive interconnection with another element having at least one of microelectronic devices or wiring thereon. The interconnection element includes a dielectric element having a major surface. A plated metal layer including a plurality of exposed metal posts can project outwardly beyond the major surface of the dielectric element. Some of the metal posts can be electrically insulated from each other by the dielectric element. The interconnection element typically includes a plurality of terminals in conductive communication with the metal posts. The terminals can be connected through the dielectric element to the metal posts. The posts may be defined by plating a metal onto exposed co-planar surfaces of a mandrel and interior surfaces of openings in a mandrel, after which the mandrel can be removed.
US09282639B2 Adhesive composition, adhesive varnish, adhesive film and wiring film
An adhesive composition includes (A) a phenoxy resin including a plurality of hydroxyl groups at a side chain: 100 parts by mass, (B) a multifunctional isocyanate compound including an isocyanate and at least one functional group selected from the group consisting of a vinyl group, an acrylate group and a methacrylate group within its molecule: 2 to 55 parts by mass, (C) a maleimide compound and/or a reaction product thereof having a plurality of maleimide groups within its molecule: 5 to 30 parts by mass, and (D) one or more kinds of an inorganic filler having an average particle size of 5 μm or less which is measured by a laser diffraction: 1 to 50 parts by mass, a total amount of the components (B) and (C) is 7 to 60 parts by mass.
US09282637B2 Epoxy resin compound and radiant heat circuit board using the same
There is provided an epoxy resin compound including an epoxy resin including a crystalline epoxy, a curing agent, and an inorganic filler. Also, there is provided a radiant heat circuit board including a metal plate, an insulating layer formed on the metal plate; and a circuit pattern formed on the insulating layer, in which the insulting layer is formed by curing an epoxy resin compound including an epoxy resin including a crystalline epoxy, a curing agent, and an inorganic filler.
US09282636B2 Contact pad carrier strip and method for making same
A contact pad carrier strip includes a substrate having a lateral extent of or substantially of 35 mm or a multiple of or substantially of 35 mm, and at least three smart card contact pads formed along the lateral extent of the substrate. The contact pads are aligned widthwisely across the lateral extent of the substrate. Each smart card contact pad includes a plurality of contacts. A majority of contacts of the contact pads are oriented to extend widthwisely across the lateral extent of the carrier strip.
US09282623B2 System, method, and apparatus for microscale plasma actuation
A device is provided having a flow passage with at least one surface and at least one electrode pair positioned thereon for effecting fluid flow through the flow passage. When at least one electrode of an electrode pair of the at least one electrode pair is powered, a sheath region is generated in the flow passage, wherein the sheath region has a high electric field relative to the remainder of the flow passage. In an embodiment, one electrode of the electrode pair is separated from the other electrode of the electrode pair by a horizontal, vertical, depth, and/or total distance of about 1 microns.
US09282621B2 Energy-recycling burn-in apparatus and method of burn-in for electronic ballasts
An apparatus and method for burning-in an electronic ballast for a lamp. The apparatus comprises a first stage for emulating an input impedance characteristic of a lamp for the electronic ballast and a second stage connected to the first stage for providing energy feedback to a power supply. An input of the first stage connects in use to the electronic ballast to be burnt-in. An output of the second stage connects in use to the power supply to provide energy feedback to said power supply from the electronic ballast being burnt-in. The energy-recyclable burn-in apparatus can emulate the lamp characteristics from start up to the steady state, process high-frequency ballast output power and recycle the power back into the power grid. The burn-in method includes operating the apparatus for a predetermined period of time such that a voltage applied to the electronic ballast simulates a steady-state operation of a lamp for the electronic ballast.
US09282618B2 Method for locating light sources, computer program and locating unit
In at least one embodiment of the method, the latter is set up to locate light sources (1) and has the following steps: a list (L) of light sources (1) in an arrangement (10) is created, each of the light sources (1) having a unique digital identifier (14) with a bit sequence, the light sources (1) are simultaneously driven, with the result that each of the light sources (1) emits a light sequence (11) according to the bit sequence of the identifier (14) associated with the respective light source (1), and an image sequence of the arrangement (10) is recorded using an image recording device (6) during the driving operation, a sequence of images in the image sequence being matched to a sequence of light states (M) in the light sequence (11) in a targeted manner.
US09282609B2 Dimmer compatible LED driving apparatus with adjustable bleeding current
An LED driving apparatus includes a rectifier bridge generating a DC bus voltage, a bus capacitor coupled between the output terminal of the rectifier bridge and a reference ground, a voltage sensing circuit generating a voltage sensing signal indicative of the DC bus voltage, a bleeding circuit providing a bleeding current for the bus capacitor, a switching converter configured to convert the DC bus voltage into a driving signal to drive an LED, a dimming mode detector detecting whether the LED driving apparatus is coupled to a leading edge dimmer or a trailing edge dimmer based on the voltage sensing signal, and a bleeding control circuit generating a control signal to control the bleeding circuit based on the voltage sensing signal, the leading edge dimming mode signal and the trailing edge dimming mode signal.
US09282601B2 Method for improving operation lifetime of capacitor, capacitor control circuit structure and use thereof
The invention provides a method for improving operation lifetime of a capacitor module in an electronic circuit employing the capacitor module, comprising the steps of providing two or more capacitor modules of same configuration; and controlling alternately a respective one of the capacitor modules to operate in the electronic circuit for a first predetermined period of time. The invention also relates to a capacitor control circuit structure for use in a location of an electronic circuit previously occupied by an original capacitor module, and the capacitor control circuit structure exhibits the extended operation lifetime with respect to the original capacitor module. The invention also relates to the use of the capacitor control circuit structure in the electronic applications.
US09282600B2 Transformerless resonant boost supply circuit
A power supply circuit for providing an output voltage that is higher than an input voltage. The power supply circuit is comprised of a bridge circuit and a resonant circuit, and is coupleable to a power source and a load circuit. The power supply circuit provides a boost function for stepping up an input voltage in order to reduce the required number of battery cells in order to power a load, such as a series of LEDs.
US09282599B2 Light-emitting diode lamp compatible with an electronic ballast generating preheating current
An LED lamp has two preheating current control units respectively connected to a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal of the LED lamp, two lamp-side rectification circuits, and an LED light string. Each preheating current control unit has a ballast-side rectification circuit connected to one of the first and second electrode terminals and a load-varying circuit having a resistive load and a control circuit. The resistive load is serially connected to a DC output terminal of the ballast-side rectification circuit through the control circuit. The control circuit adjusts a resistance of the resistive load. Two input terminals of each lamp-side rectification circuit are respectively connected to one of the electrodes of each of the first electrode terminal and the second electrode terminal. The LED light string has two ends respectively connected to the two output terminals of each lamp-side rectification circuit, and has multiple series-connected LED elements.
US09282586B2 Method and apparatus for performing TCP communication in a wireless communication system
A method and an apparatus for performing Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication at a network node in a wireless communication system are provided. The method includes receiving, by the network node that connects between a Mobile Station (MS) and a data network, a TCP KeepAlive packet for maintaining a TCP connection established between a correspondent node and the MS through the data network from the correspondent node, transmitting, by the network node, when it is determined that the MS is in an idle mode upon receiving the TCP KeepAlive packet, an acknowledgement packet in response to the TCP KeepAlive packet to the correspondent node, and transmitting, by the network node, indication information indicating the reception of the TCP KeepAlive packet to the MS.
US09282584B2 Cellular communication system allowing, by using a universal link, direct communication between terminals or simultaneous transmission and reception of signals between a base station and the terminals
Disclosed is a cellular communication system allowing direct communication between terminals within a cell or simultaneous transmission and reception of signals between a base station and the terminals through a repeater to be made by introducing a universal link, and a communication method thereof. The communication method of the cellular communication system includes: transmitting, by a base station, universal link setting information and a transmission control signal to a first terminal within a cell, transmitting, by the base station, the universal link setting information and a reception control signal to a second terminal within the cell, and directly transmitting/receiving, by the first and second terminals, signals through the universal link.
US09282551B2 Methods and apparatus for automated device state changes in response to network conditions
Methods and apparatus for the automated altering of wireless device states in response to detected connection behaviors. In one embodiment, a mobile device receives network parameters, some of which are incorrectly configured, from a base station (or access point). To ensure the proper behavior of the mobile device, the device reviews the network provided parameters to determine if one or more of the parameters has been set incorrectly. If so, the device locally alters its own settings to mitigate the incorrect operation associated with the incorrect network provided parameters. In second exemplary embodiment, a number of tolerances are utilized to ensure the proper operation of the mobile device while maintaining an active link. Upon violation of one or more of these tolerances, the device breaks the active link to the wireless network.
US09282537B2 Mass notification systems
A mass notification system is disclosed. The system can include a communication network. The system can also include a number of network devices communicably coupled to the communication network, where at least two of the network devices are configured to generate a communication substantially simultaneously. The system can further include a server communicably coupled to the communication network and configured to control the plurality of network devices, where the server instructs the at least two of the plurality of network devices to generate the communication. The system can also include a first client communicably coupled to the communication network and comprising a user interface, where the first client is configured to communicate, via the user interface, with the server and the plurality of network devices.
US09282533B2 Method for improving paging performances in a wireless access system
An object of the present invention is a method for improving paging performances in a wireless access system, said method comprising the steps of: —retransmitting a paging message in case of no response from a paged Mobile Station, —performing said retransmission at a Base Station level, —managing said retransmission at a Paging Controller level.
US09282530B1 In-flight entertainment system that identifies seat locations of video display units and personal electronic devices
An entertainment system includes radio access nodes (RANs) spaced apart from each other and a location measurement node. The location measurement node includes a memory and at least one processor. The memory contains a seat layout map identifying an arrangement of seats and locations of the RANs relative to the seats. The processor measures distances between the RANs and a transceiver device located at a seat among the seats arranged according to a seat layout map residing in memory, and retrieves from the seat layout map, the locations of the RANs relative to the seats. The processor identifies one of the seats within the seat layout map where the transceiver device is located based on comparison of the measured distances and the retrieved locations of the RANs relative to the seats, and stores in the memory an identifier for the transceiver device associated with an identifier for the seat.
US09282515B2 Method of synchronization and link access for low energy critical infrastructure monitoring network
The present invention provides a time synchronization method in a low energy critical infrastructure monitoring network and a coordinate access method using a superframe. According to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, time synchronization can be promptly and efficiently performed in the low energy critical infrastructure monitoring network, a link access method with three grades of link access can be provided, and a frame structure and a process for link generation, link management, and extended connection are provided.
US09282507B2 Managing wireless connections based on motion
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are described for avoiding short-lived wireless connections. In one method, a first connection with a first access point may be used for data transmissions. A motion state of a mobile device may be determined based on sensor data from at least one sensor within the mobile device. A second access point may be identified. A determination may be made to use the second access point for data transmissions based at least in part on the motion state of the mobile device.
US09282506B2 Cell search in wireless communication system
A receiver performs synchronization to a secondary component carrier in a wireless communication system. The secondary component carrier is aggregated with a primary component carrier in the wireless communication system. Side information of the secondary component carrier is utilized to reduce occurrences of a number of synchronization hypotheses in a hypothesis test in the case that synchronization to the secondary component carrier is performed. Symbol timing synchronization of the secondary component carrier is determined in accordance with the reduced occurrences of the number of synchronization hypotheses.
US09282505B1 Systems and methods of wireless communication access control
In systems and methods of wireless communication access control, link budget parameters are determined for an access node, and a network access criteria is calculated based on the determined link budget parameters. In embodiments, an offset value is applied to the network access criteria. The network access criteria is provided from the access node to a wireless device. When a signal level of the access node meets the network access criteria, a network access request is received from the wireless device.
US09282504B2 Joining process for powerline communication (PLC) networks
Systems and methods for routing protocols for power line communications (PLC) are described. In some embodiments, a method performed by a PLC device, such as a PLC meter, may include active discovering and identifying at least one bootstrapping agent and a personal area network (PAN) identifier for one or more networks that are operating within a personal operating space of the PLC device. The device selects a target bootstrapping agent to use for the join process with a target network. The target bootstrapping agent may be selected from a list of bootstrapping agents associated with the target PAN identifier. If the attempt to join the target network fails, then the device further determines if other bootstrapping agents are associated with the target PAN identifier. The device selects an alternate target bootstrapping agent from the other bootstrapping agents that are associated with the target PAN identifier and reattempts the join process.
US09282500B1 Ad hoc high frequency with advanced automatic link establishment system and related method
A system and method for ad-hoc beyond line of sight high frequency (HF) radio frequency communication is disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention may augment the HF waveform incorporated with Advanced automatic link establishment (A2LE) to determine relay-hop paths between a plurality of HF nodes. Systems herein may setup and teardown bi-directional one hop HF communication sessions between two HF nodes having RF connectivity directly as well as through an intermediary relay node. Additionally, the setup and teardown may include bi-directional relay hop HF communication sessions between two HF nodes through multiple intermediary relay nodes. In performing the bi-directional relay hop HF communication sessions, systems herein may select a relay node, perform automatic link monitoring and link re-establishment, support message store and forward, and route HF communication along a path around potential barriers to communication (e.g., nuclear scintillation, solar flares, and coronal mass events).
US09282497B2 Inter-radio access technology transition based on quality of service evaluation
A method for determining whether to allow performance of an inter-radio access technology (IRAT) transition is provided. The method can include a wireless communication device determining a realized quality of service (QoS) for packet switched data traffic on a first radio access technology (RAT); determining whether the realized QoS satisfies a threshold QoS; suspending IRAT transition to a second RAT in an instance in which it is determined that the realized QoS satisfies the threshold QoS; and allowing IRAT transition to the second RAT in an instance in which it is determined that the realized QoS does not satisfy the threshold QoS.
US09282491B2 Base station gateway apparatus, wireless communication system and communication method
A disclosed base station gateway apparatus has a C-plane processing unit and a U-plane processing unit. When a mobile station performs handover from a subordinate source base station to a subordinate target base station, the C-plane processing unit terminates S1AP signaling received from the source base station and the target base station without relaying the S1AP signaling to a mobility management apparatus. The U-plane processing unit inserts, into U-plane data that is received from a serving gateway apparatus and that is to be transferred to the source base station, an end marker indicating that the U-plane data is the last data at a predetermined timing, and switches the transfer destination of the U-plane data, received from the serving gateway apparatus, from the source base station to the target base station at a timing immediately after the end marker is inserted.
US09282475B2 Method and system for calculating total received power of high speed physical downlink shared channel
A method for calculating total received power of an HS-PDSCH is disclosed in the patent document, comprising: when a terminal performs an HS-DSCH cell handover across an IUR interface, an SRNC requesting a DRNC to establish an HS-DSCH pre-configuration; the DRNC returning information of a measured power deviation of a target serving cell to the SRNC; the SRNC sending said information to the terminal; and after performing the handover to the target serving cell, the terminal using the measured power deviation of the target serving cell to estimate the total received power of the HS-PDSCH in the target serving cell. A system for calculating the total received power of the HS-PDSCH is also disclosed in the patent document, and the system comprises: a first module and second module of a serving radio network controller, a drift radio network controller and a terminal.
US09282462B2 Method and apparatus to facilitate support for multi-radio coexistence
A method of wireless communication includes receiving signaling from a served User Equipment (UE), via a radio access technology, indicating an interfering technology associated with coexistence issues experienced by the served UE. The method also includes calculating future subframes expected to experience coexistence issues based on previous subframes estimated to have experienced coexistence issues.
US09282452B2 Wireless communication system and wireless terminal device
A wireless communication system, comprising a category designation unit capable of designating a terminal category using at least a transmitting frequency bandwidth and receiving frequency bandwidth available between the system and a wireless terminal device.
US09282451B2 Automatic location identification (ALI) service requests steering, connection sharing and protocol translation
An ALI/ESME steering gateway bridges the nationwide ALI/ESME network notes (or PSAPs) with the GMLC/MPCs of various different XPC networks. The steering gateway provides a unified interface between the PSAP/ALI network and positioning centers (GMLC/MPC/VPCs). Using the steering gateway, an E911 service provider accesses positioning centers (GMLC/MPC/VPC) of any XPC network. This access by the ALI to the positioning center is accomplished with any type of interface, irregardless of the protocol type. The connectivity of each virtual communication path between ALIs and PSAPs is managed. The ALI/ESME steering gateway also provides translation of the protocols between the two ALI-MPC interface sets (inbound and outbound). The ALI/ESME steering gateway also consolidates (or “de-duplicates”) any/all duplicated requests from a same ALI or PSAP for the same emergency call so that only one request is then sent to the destined positioning center within the relevant network.