Document Document Title
US09719380B2 Power generation using non-aqueous solvent
A system and methods for power generation uses non-aqueous solvent. The method includes treating oil sands with a non-aqueous solvent to extract bitumen in an extraction process and separating the non-aqueous solvent from the bitumen in a solvent recovery process. The method also includes heating the non-aqueous solvent, expanding the non-aqueous solvent to generate power, and cooling the non-aqueous solvent. The method further includes recycling at least a portion of the non-aqueous solvent to the extraction process.
US09719377B2 Operation of gas turbine power plant with carbon dioxide separation
The invention relates to a method for operating a gas turbine power plant, including a gas turbine, a HRSG following the gas turbine, an exhaust gas blower, and a carbon dioxide separation plant which separates the carbon dioxide contained in the exhaust gases and discharges it to a carbon dioxide outlet, the gas turbine, HRSG, exhaust gas blower, and carbon dioxide separation plant being connected by means of exhaust gas lines. According to the method a trip of the gas turbine power plant includes the steps of: stopping the fuel supply, switching off the exhaust gas blower, and controlling the opening angle of a VIGV at a position bigger or equal to a position required to keep a pressure in the exhaust gas lines between the HRSG and the exhaust gas blower above a minimum required pressure. The invention relates, further relates to a gas turbine power plant configured to carry out such a method.
US09719375B2 Method of engine split and reassembly
A method of axially separating an annular system, such as a gas turbine engine (10), comprising first (34) and second (36) annular components. An annular array of fastenings (42) couples the first (34) and second (36) components together axially. The first (34) and second (36) components are supported by support tooling. The fastenings (42) are removed to leave one fastening (42) located on each side of the system. One of the remaining fastenings (42) is removed. The relative height of the first (34) and second (36) components is adjusted so that the apertures (46, 48) for the fastening (42) removed at the previous step are aligned. Then the final fastening (42) is removed.
US09719367B2 Ram air turbine pump leakage control
An exemplary method of controlling fluid flow in a ram air turbine assembly, includes redirecting flow moving in an axial direction against the surface of a drive shaft to flow moving in a radial direction away from the drive shaft to limit flow of the fluid from a hydraulic pump to a generator.
US09719354B2 Gas turbine with improved blade and vane and flue gas diffuser
A gas turbine burns the air compressed in a compressor with supplying fuel in a combustor so as to obtain rotary power by supplying the generated combustion gas to a turbine. The turbine includes turbine vane elements and turbine blade elements that are alternately positioned in a direction in which the combustion gas fluidizes in a turbine cylinder having a cylindrical shape, and a flue gas diffuser having a cylindrical shape and connected to a rear portion of the turbine cylinder. The turbine blade element includes a plurality of turbine blades positioned at equal intervals in the circumference direction. The turbine blades have a throat width on a longitudinal end side made larger than a throat width on a longitudinally intermediate portion side. This efficiently restores the pressure of the flue gas. This improves the efficiency of the turbine so that the performance can be improved.
US09719348B2 Chisel holder
The invention relates to a bit holder for an earth working machine, in particular a road milling machine, having a support member onto which an insertion projection is indirectly or directly attached on an insertion projection side, the support member comprising two first and/or two second stripping surfaces that are at an angle to one another, and the support member having a working side that comprises a bit receptacle. In order to achieve a stable and long-lived configuration for such a bit holder, provision is made according to the present invention that the first and/or second stripping surfaces diverge from the insertion projection side toward the working side.
US09719346B2 Communicating acoustically
An apparatus includes a housing. The housing includes a concentrator and a plurality of signal acquisition devices. Each signal acquisition device is coupled to a respective sensor. Each sensor measures an environmental parameter outside the housing. Each signal acquisition device includes an acoustic transducer. Each signal acquisition device includes a controller to accept measurements from the respective sensor, process the measurements and format them into a transmittable form, and transmit the formatted measurements via the acoustic transducer. A concentrator includes an acoustic transducer to receive acoustic transmissions from the plurality of signal acquisition devices, a processor to process the received acoustic transmissions, and a telemetry device through which the processor can transmit the processed transmissions.
US09719343B2 Method and apparatus for passive detection of near-surface human-scale underground anomalies using earth field measurements
Methods and apparatus are provided for passively detecting the presence of near-surface human-scale underground anomalies using earth field measurements. A sensor is used to measure at least one electric or magnetic component of the Earth's electromagnetic field at a frequency of 5 kHz or greater in proximity to the Earth's surface for a given area. The measured intensities are used to identify variations indicative of the presence of a near-surface human-scale underground anomaly. Measuring the intensity of at least one component of the electromagnetic field at a plurality of frequencies of 5 kHz or greater can be used to determine the depth and characteristic of a near-surface human-scale underground anomaly.
US09719342B2 Drill bit assembly imaging systems and methods
Drill bit assembly imaging systems and methods are disclosed herein. An example method disclosed herein includes directing light conveying an image of a target through a portion of a drill bit assembly and capturing the image via an image sensor disposed inside the drill bit assembly. The example method also include determining drilling information based on the image via an image processor disposed inside the drill bit assembly.
US09719337B2 Acceleration of heavy oil recovery through downhole radio frequency radiation heating
Heavy oil recovery using downhole radio frequency radiation heating accelerates SAGD thermal recovery processes. In one embodiment, one or more SAGD well pairs traverse a subterranean formation for recovering heavy oil. The SAGD well pairs each create a steam chamber which, over time, expands to allow each steam chamber to interact with one another and in this way, increases the recovery heavy oil from the formation. One or more antennas may be interposed between the steam chambers to introduce electromagnetic radiation into the formation to heat the fluids therein to accelerate expansion of the steam chambers, particularly where antennas are judiciously situated to optimize steam chamber expansion. Where an infill production well is present, the antennas may be situated to accelerate steam chamber communication with the infill production well. Advantages include lower cost, higher efficiencies, quicker and increased hydrocarbon recovery.
US09719334B2 Method and tool for perforating a wellbore casing in a formation using a sand jet, and using such tool to further frac the formation
A tool and method employing sand jetting to perforate a wellbore casing at various locations using sandjetting, and to further flush the wellbore in the region of the tool, and to further frac the formation, all without having to remove the tool from the wellbore. An uphole and downhole packer is provided, uphole of which a sand jet port is provided for jetting a fluid stream containing sand. Locking jaw members and a ‘j’ slot subassembly, downhole of both the jet port and frac port, are together used to set and unset the tool in the wellbore for the fracking operation. A slidable sleeve is utilized to open and close the jet port, and a piston member is further provided to set the upper packer member. A bypass port, selectively openable and closeable, is provided to assist in moving the tool uphole during the perforating and fracking process.
US09719331B2 Method and apparatus for bringing under control an uncontrolled flow through a flow device
A machine includes a spindle for storing wire, a wire passage structure having an interface coupline, a controllable drive system, a control system, and a pressure-resistant housing. The drive system is configured to feed the wire through the wire passage structure and through the interface coupling, under the control of the control system. The housing encloses the wire passage structure, the controllable drive system, and at least a portion of the control system.
US09719330B2 Subsea equipment pendulum arrestor and method for its use
An apparatus for, and method of, reducing a pendulum motion of a piece of subsea equipment during a landing operation includes a frame assembly arranged for connection to the piece of subsea equipment; a sheet of arrestor material disposed within a perimeter of the frame assembly, and a drive mechanism arranged to move the sheet of arrestor material between a first position and a second position, each position providing a different amount of surface area than the other to create a different drag force on the equipment.
US09719328B2 Formation swelling control using heat treatment
A downhole tool system includes a downhole tool string configured to couple to a downhole conveyance. The downhole conveyance extends into a wellbore, from a terranean surface, through at least a portion of a subterranean zone. The subterranean zone includes a geologic formation. The downhole tool system also includes a heating device coupled with the downhole tool string. The heating device is configured to transfer heat to the geologic formation in the wellbore at a specified temperature sufficient to adjust a quality of the geologic formation associated with a fluid absorption capacity of the geologic formation.
US09719327B2 Magnetic key for operating a multi-position downhole tool
A downhole tool for use in a wellbore tubular string comprises a housing having a bore therethrough forming part of a fluid flowpath through the wellbore tubular string, a sliding member operable to slide with respect to the housing, a plurality of magnetic pins, and a corresponding plurality of springs. A sliding line is formed by interfacing surfaces of the sliding member and the housing, and the plurality of pins comprise a locked position and an unlocked position whereby in the locked position at least one pin spans the sliding line to prevent the sliding member from sliding with respect to the housing and in the unlocked position no pins span the sliding line. The plurality of springs biases the pins towards the locked position.
US09719324B2 Operation of multiple interconnected hydraulic actuators in a subterranean well
A system for use with a well can include multiple hydraulic actuators in the well, each of the actuators being connected to a common hydraulic line, and multiple pressure control devices, each pressure control device preventing flow from the hydraulic line to a respective one of the actuators unless a pressure differential across the pressure control device exceeds a predetermined level. A method of controlling operation of multiple hydraulic actuators in a well can include applying pressure to at least one of the actuators, thereby increasing pressure in a common hydraulic line connected to each of the actuators, preventing communication of the increased pressure in the common hydraulic line to additional actuators, and permitting flow from the common hydraulic line to each of the actuators, in response to a pressure differential across the pressure control devices exceeding a predetermined level.
US09719309B2 Instrumented strakes and fairings for subsea riser and pipeline monitoring
A vortex induced vibration suppression system for use on a subsea riser system having either a stake or fairing component includes at least one fiber optic sensor mounted on the component. The fiber optic sensor associated with the riser includes at least one sensor for producing a sensor signal. The system may include a plurality of sensors and the plurality of signals produced thereby are combined at a multiplexer for generating a single, composite sensor signal. The signal may be monitored in real time or near real time for observing and monitoring the reaction of the subsea riser to conditions inducing vibration.
US09719305B2 Expandable reamers and methods of using expandable reamers
Expandable reamers may include a housing and at least one blade supported by the housing. The at least one blade may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The at least one blade may be in the retracted position when a first actuation member is in a first longitudinal position and a second actuation member sleeve is affixed to the first actuation member. The at least one blade may be movable to the extended position when the first actuation member is in a second longitudinal position and the second actuation member is affixed to the first actuation member. The at least one blade may be in the retracted position when the first actuation member is in the second longitudinal position and the second actuation member obstructs an opening in a sidewall of the first actuation member.
US09719288B2 Door skin, a method of etching a plate, and an etched plate formed therefrom
The present invention relates to a door skin comprising an exterior surface having outer portions lying on a first plane, spaced grooves recessed from the plane of the outer portions, and tonal portions having a planar area and a plurality of spaced depressions recessed from the plane of said planar area. The present invention is also directed to a method of etching a plate, for use with a molded die set, for embossing a wood grain pattern in the door skin, and the etched plate formed therefrom.
US09719281B2 Reinforcing method and arrangement for foldable furniture
A reinforcing arrangement for reinforcing a joint portion between two support units of a foldable furniture object, comprising a first mounting unit which comprises a first mounting body and a first guiding member outwardly protruded from the first mounting body mounting on the first support unit; a second mounting unit which comprises a second mounting body and a second guiding member or a second guiding groove complimentary to and moveably engaging with the first mounting unit to define a maximum extending angle of movement, thereby the first and second support unit are guided to lock into position at an unfolded position at the maximum extending angle and to unlock at a folded position; and a connecting unit pivotally connecting the first support unit and the second support unit between which the two mounting units are positioned, thereby the joint portion is reinforced.
US09719275B1 Lock pin rotational position setting key and method of use
A pin setting key for setting rotational orientations of pins of a lock. The key includes a bow portion and a blade portion for inserting into a keyway. The blade portion has a longitudinal axis and a bow end and a tip end, with a plurality of bitting positions located between the bow and tip ends. Each of the bitting positions corresponds to one of the pins of the plug such that insertion of the blade portion into the keyway aligns the bitting position with one of the pins. Each bitting position includes at least one bitting surface configured to rotate a pin when the contact surface of the pin contacts the bitting surface. Each bitting surface is offset from a central location of the respective bitting position. Each bitting surface has an axis extending generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the blade.
US09719272B1 Stanchion or post with a spring-loaded assembly
A socket mounted post system including a post with a hollow base portion attached to a spring mechanism. The spring mechanism includes a pillar, the pillar having a finger extending from the hollow base portion. The finger is engageable with a socket that is mountable in a floor. The spring mechanism allows the post to flex angularly relative to a vertical orientation of the post.
US09719269B2 Prefabricated pool
A prefabricated concrete pool including concrete walls and a pan-formed concrete floor, as well as a method of fabricating a prefabricated swimming pool, the method including erecting an external wall form, erecting an internal wall form opposing the external wall form, and positioning pan forms on a floor form.
US09719266B2 Surface finishing tool
A finishing tool with an elongate body having a finish side and a grip side. The finish side provides a finish edge configured to form a flat concrete surface when pulled across partially set concrete. The grip side is configured to be gripped by a user. A radius notch on one end of the finish side is configured to provide a rounded edge transition above the flat concrete surface when pulled across the partially set concrete. The finish edge is configured to be sloped running away from the radius notch. An adjustable form gage can be attached to an opposite end of the elongate body from the radius notch. The adjustable form gage defines a foot with a form surface configured to interface with a form. The adjustable form gage is adjustable within a predetermined range to set the finish edge at a predetermined pitch.
US09719265B2 Floor underlayment for positioning heating elements
A floor underlayment for positioning and mounting a heating element beneath a finished floor is described. The floor underlayment comprises a plurality of studs extending upwardly from a base layer, where the outer wall of the studs forms an acute angle with the base layer and a smooth inner wall defines a cavity within each stud. Mounting corridors formed by rows or columns of adjacent studs are sized to receive and retain a heating element.
US09719258B1 Seamless sheet insulation around roof structural members
A seamless sheet installation system preferably includes a seamless sheet and a plurality of sheet retention devices. The seamless sheet is retained on a tube. A pair of rotating retention devices may be inserted into ends of the roll. Each rolling retention device includes a tube plug and a rotating handle. An end of the seamless sheet is secured to the top eave flange. The seamless sheet is held against a bottom of the eave purlin web with one of the plurality of sheet retention devices. The sheet retention device may have any suitable design. The seamless sheet is rolled out to successive purlins, wrapped over the top flange and anchored to a bottom of the vertical web with one of the plurality of sheet retention devices. The seamless sheet wrapping process is terminated at an opposing eave purlin or a ridge purlin. Insulation is then inserted between adjacent purlins.
US09719255B1 Buckling reinforcement for structural members
A method and an article of manufacture are disclosed for externally reinforcing various solid structures, such as columns, poles, piles, beams and the like, against buckling under compressive forces and loads. In various embodiments, a seamless multi-layer jacket is constructed around the structural member by wrapping a thin sheet of material around the structural member, as many times as needed, at a distance from the structural member. While maintaining the thin sheet of material wrapped around the structural member, a filler material will fill the annular space between the jacket and the structural member, wherein the structural member, the jacket, and the filler material cooperate to better resist the buckling of the structural member when subject to compressive forces and loads.
US09719250B2 Method and a system for fastening an object to a facade
A method and a system for fastening an object to a façade comprising at least one supporting wall made in a hard material coated externally with a thermal insulation coat made in a crumbly material, the object being fastened to the wall by means of a fastening member received in an area for receiving a plot made in a hard material arranged in projection out of the wall. The object is fastened to the wall in an indirect way offsetting towards the outside of the façade the area of the plot. The plot is fastened to the wall by a fastening area extending between the wall and the receiving area. The plot is a straight cylinder extending through the insulation coat.
US09719248B1 Method of sealing an expansion joint
A method of sealing a gap between construction slabs by deforming and inserting a sealing member of closed cell foam is described. An assembly including a deformed sealing member and construction slabs is disclosed. Also described is a joint seal configured to seal a gap between constructions slabs, which utilizes a deformed sealing member of closed cell foam installed within the gap.
US09719244B2 Bale latch for extendable/retractable support column
An extendable and retractable column which is formed from at least three linked sections or chains. The linked sections include a plurality of individual segments linked end to end. As the linked segments are extended, each of the individual segments of the linked chains engage individual segments of adjacent linked sections to form a column. As the linked sections are retracted, each of the individual segments of the linked sections disengage from the individual segment of the adjacent linked sections and the individual linked sections may be rolled up into a multi-sided form for compact storage.
US09719243B2 Strut connector
A strut connector for use with a hollow strut having at least one a pair of opposed openings formed in the strut. A pair of identical connector portions are rotatably coupled together, with one of the connector portions inverted. Each connector portion is a flat blade having a body portion and an arm portion extending from the body portion. The body portion has a first hole and a second hole. The arm portion has at least one tab extending from the arm portion at an angle. The arm portions are coupled together via the first hole, then rotated to engage respective openings on the strut with the tabs. The second holes are aligned and a fastener secured through the second holes.
US09719230B2 Mobile vacuum with remote debris tank
A mobile vacuum system includes a mobile support frame, a vacuum source connected to selectively vacuum materials into a primary collection tank and a secondary collection tank. The primary collection tank is mounted on the frame, while the secondary collection tank is connected to either the frame of the primary collection tank by a boom. The boom, which can be in the form of an articulated arm, allows the secondary collection tank to be moved through a wide range of motion relative to the frame, e.g., for dumping debris from the secondary tank.
US09719229B2 Bucket and working vehicle provided with the same
A bucket with a blade-shaped lower front edge includes: a first straight portion horizontally extending from the lower front edge toward an innermost of the bucket; a curve continuous with a rear edge of the first straight portion at a lower edge of the curve, the curve having a predetermined bucket radius; a second straight portion continuous with an upper edge of the curve, the second straight portion being inclined upward toward a bucket opening; a third straight portion bent at a bent portion toward the bucket opening relative to a front edge of the second straight portion, the third straight portion further extending toward the bucket opening; a reinforcing member provided on an exterior surface of the third straight portion to reinforce of the exterior surface; and a connecting portion provided behind the curve.
US09719226B2 Floatable oil absorber
A floatable modular device for absorbing oil from a surface, includes a generally disk-shaped floatable cage tapering towards the periphery of the cage in a peripheral region thereof; and a water-repellent strip- or chip-shaped oil absorbent accommodated in the cage, wherein the cage further includes at least one connector, element configured for joining plural ones of the modular devices together, to form an articulate oil absorber in which the individual cages are oriented in parallel to one another. A method of manufacturing the device includes providing a first, grid-like sheet made of plastics, positioning a water-repellent strip- or chip-shaped oil absorbent on the first grid-like sheet, positioning a second sheet on the oil absorbent, and welding the first and second sheets together at their peripheries, with the oil absorbent in between, wherein peripheral regions of the first and second sheets are bent towards one another.
US09719222B2 Fire hydrant cleaning device
An apparatus for clearing around an associated stationary object includes a housing having a top wall, a side wall, and at least one opening extending through the side wall. At least one paddle member is mounted to and extends radially outward from an exterior surface of the housing. The paddle member is adapted to clear around the associated stationary object. The apparatus further includes a plurality of elongated cables mounted to a support that is selectively secured to an interior surface of the housing. The elongated cables are adapted to clean around the associated stationary object.
US09719220B2 Anti-ram gate
A gate assembly having a cable extending across a panel, the panel movable between a closed position blocking an entry port and an open position; a latch post secured in the ground on a first side of the entry port, wherein a first end of the cable is connected to the latch post when the panel is in the closed position; and a post device secured in the ground on a second side of the entry port, the panel positioned through a passage of the post device.
US09719217B2 Self-propelled construction machine and method for visualizing the working environment of a construction machine moving on a terrain
The invention relates to a self-propelled construction machine, in particular a road milling machine or a slipform paver, which can carry out translational and/or rotational movements for a planned project on a terrain. In addition, the invention relates to a method for visualizing the working environment of a construction machine moving on the terrain, in particular a road milling machine or a slipform paver. The construction machine comprises an image recording unit for recording an image segment of the terrain located in a coordinate system (X, Y, Z) dependent on the position and orientation of the construction machine on the terrain, and a display unit for displaying the image segment of the terrain. Moreover, the construction machine comprises a data processing unit which is configured in such a way that a depiction of a part of the project located in the image segment is superimposed on the image segment of the terrain displayed on the display unit, such that the project is visualized in the image segment. The display unit thus displays not only the actual image segment, but also a virtual image of the project, thus widening the perception of the machine operator. As a result, the machine operator can identify on the display unit whether the project forming the basis of the control matches the reality.
US09719214B1 Liquid asphalt heating and mixing system
A liquid asphalt heating and mixing system having a double helix heat exchanger positioned within a liquid asphalt storage vessel and being connected to a fluid heater and circulator to feed hot oil through said heat exchanger for heating liquid asphalt within the storage vessel. An eductor mixer is centrally aligned longitudinally with the heat exchanger with an intake end positioned interiorly of the heat exchanger and a discharge end directed away from the heat exchanger. A liquid asphalt pump is connected to the eductor mixer and to the storage vessel to pump liquid asphalt from the storage vessel, through the eductor mixer and back to the storage vessel.
US09719211B2 Method of producing structure for producing casting, and structure such as mold
Provided is a method of producing a structure for producing a casting, including: a process (I) of obtaining a slurry composition containing an organic fiber, an inorganic fiber, a thermosetting resin, and water; a process (II) of obtaining a fiber laminate by subjecting the slurry composition to papermaking; and a process (III) of dehydrating the fiber laminate and thereafter drying the resultant, in which the process (I) includes a process (I-1) of beating a mixture containing the organic fiber and water, a process (I-2) of mixing the mixture obtained in the process (I-1) and water, and a process (I-3) of mixing the mixture obtained in the process (I-2) and the inorganic fiber, the thermosetting resin is mixed in at least any of the process (I-1), the process (I-2), and the process (I-3), and an average fiber length of the inorganic fiber in the structure for producing a casting is 1 mm or longer and 5 mm or shorter.
US09719181B2 Systems and methods for producing metal clusters; functionalized surfaces; and droplets including solvated metal ions
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for producing metal clusters; functionalized surfaces; and droplets including solvated metal ions. In certain aspects, the invention provides methods that involve providing a metal and a solvent. The methods additionally involve applying voltage to the solvated metal to thereby produce solvent droplets including ions of the metal containing compound, and directing the solvent droplets including the metal ions to a target. In certain embodiments, once at the target, the metal ions can react directly or catalyze reactions.
US09719178B2 Electrochemical module configuration for the continuous acidification of alkaline water sources and recovery of CO2 with continuous hydrogen gas production
An electrochemical cell for the continuous acidification of alkaline water sources and recovery of carbon dioxide with simultaneous continuous hydrogen gas production having a center compartment, an electrolyte-free anode compartment having a mesh anode in direct contact with an ion permeable membrane, an endblock in direct contact with the anode where the endblock provides a gas escape route behind the anode, an electrolyte-free cathode compartment having a mesh cathode in direct contact with an ion permeable membrane, and an endblock in direct contact with the cathode where the endblock provides a gas escape route behind the cathode. Current applied to the electrochemical cell for generating hydrogen gas also lowers the pH of the alkaline water to produce carbon dioxide with no additional current or power. Also disclosed is the related method for continuously acidifying alkaline water sources and recovering carbon dioxide with continuous hydrogen gas production.
US09719177B2 In-situ conditioning for vacuum processing of polymer substrates
An etching chamber is equipped with an actively-cooled element preferentially adsorbs volatile compounds that are evolved from a polymeric layer of a wafer during etching, which compounds will act as contaminants if re-deposited on the wafer, for example on exposed metal contact portions where they may interfere with subsequent deposition of metal contact layers. In desirable embodiments, a getter sublimation pump is also provided in the etching chamber as a source of getter material. Methods of etching in such a chamber are also disclosed.
US09719160B1 Stainless steel alloys with antimicrobial properties
An austenitic antibacterial stainless steel formulation provides a high strength, highly corrosion resistant, antimicrobial product at a relatively low cost wherein antimicrobial performance is dramatic and greater mechanical properties and corrosion resistance are achieved as well. The alloy may comprise key constituents of Fe, Cr, Ni, and C plus a mischmetal having Ce and La components.
US09719156B2 Aluminum fin alloy and method of making the same
The present invention relates to an aluminum alloy product for use as a finstock material within brazed heat exchangers and, more particularly, to a finstock material having high strength and conductivity after brazing. The invention is an aluminum alloy finstock comprising the following composition in weight %: Fe 0.8-1.25; Si 0.8-1.25; Mn0.70-1.50; Cu0.05-0.50; Znup to 2.5; other elements less than or equal to 0.05 each and less than or equal to 0.15 in total; and balance aluminum. The invention also relates to a method of making the finstock material.
US09719149B2 Load transport mechanism for a multi-station heat treating system
A load transport mechanism for moving a heat treating load in a multi-station heat treating system is disclosed. The transport mechanism has a compact construction that allows it to fit in a centrally located stationary transport chamber. The transport chamber is adapted to provide ready access to multiple treating chambers arrayed around the chamber. The transport mechanism includes a load translation mechanism for moving the load linearly and a load rotation mechanism for rotating the load within the transport chamber. A multi-station heat treating system having a centrally located quenching chamber that includes the load transport mechanism is also disclosed.
US09719145B2 Soybean transgenic event MON87751 and methods for detection and use thereof
The invention provides a transgenic Glycine max event MON87751, plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, progeny plants, and commodity products comprising event MON87751. The invention also provides polynucleotides specific for event MON87751, plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products comprising polynucleotides for event MON87751. The invention also provides methods related to event MON87751.
US09719127B2 Dual inducible vectors and cell lines
The invention pertains to a novel cell line, an HIV tat-rev dependent GFP-Gaussia luciferase Reporter cell line, known henceforth as the GGR cell line, that detects pseudotype and replication competent HIV (cloned or uncloned isolates, in cell media or human serum) rapidly and with high sensitivity. This GGR cell line provides an improved method of characterizing the entry phenotype of HIV envelope genes, and detecting and examining primary HIV samples in the context of laboratory research, clinical trial monitoring, and medical diagnostics. Examples include, but are not limited to, determining the functional HIV viral load, responsiveness to treatment, characterization of viral co-receptor usage (testing for viral co-receptor usage, i.e., CCR5 vs CXCR4, as required prior to prescribing FDA-approved CCR5 inhibitors), and characterization of other viral or drug resistance phenotypic properties to guide treatment.
US09719124B2 Methods for detecting Listeria monocytogenes
A method of detecting Listeria monocytogenes. The method comprises providing a culture device with a selective culture medium and a detection article comprising a first indicator system. The selective culture medium facilitates the growth of Listeria microorganisms. When a Listeria microorganism is detected in a sample contacted with the culture medium, the detection article is contacted with the culture medium to detect Listeria monocytogenes.
US09719120B2 Enzymes for starch processing
The present invention relates to polypeptides comprising a carbohydrate-binding module amino acid sequence and an alpha-amylase amino acid sequence as well as to the application of such polypeptides.
US09719118B2 Microorganisms and methods for the production of caprolactone
The invention provides non-naturally occurring microbial organisms containing caprolactone pathways having at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding a butadiene pathway enzyme expressed in a sufficient amount to produce caprolactone. The invention additionally provides methods of using such microbial organisms to produce caprolactone by culturing a non-naturally occurring microbial organism containing caprolactone pathways as described herein under conditions and for a sufficient period of time to produce caprolactone.
US09719116B2 Eukaryotic microorganisms for producing lipids and antioxidants
Disclosed are compositions and methods related to eukaryotic microorganisms that can produce unsaturated fatty acids which can be purified and used.
US09719112B2 Mutant beta-glucosidases having enhanced activity and a method for producing bioethanol using the same
The present invention relates to beta-glucosidase that is mutated to have enhanced activity, and a method for producing bioethanol using the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a polynucleotide encoding beta-glucosidase that is mutated to have enhanced activity, beta-glucosidase expressed from the polynucleotide, an expression vector including the polynucleotide, a transformant that is transformed with the expression vector, a method for producing the mutated beta-glucosidase using the transformant, and a method for producing bioethanol using the transformant. The mutant beta-glucosidase of the present invention increases production of glucose much more than the conventional beta-glucosidase, and thus it can be widely used for economic production of bioethanol.
US09719111B2 Multiple tank high solids anaerobic digester
A multi-stage anaerobic digester is designed to treat a high solids, stackable feedstock. The system may also receive a pumpable feedstock such as a slurry or sludge. In a first stage, the digestate circulates in one direction around a raceway such that the digestate may pass a feed inlet multiple times before leaving the first tank. An optional side stream loop withdraws fibrous material from near the top of the reaceway and return digestate with chopped fibers, preferably lower and further along the raceway. An outlet from the raceway located near, but upstream of the feed inlet discharges partially digested substrate to a second stage, which is operated as a stirred tank reactor. The two stages may be provided in a single tank with an internal wall separating a ring shaped outer portion from a cylindrical inner portion. The digester may be operated in a thermophilic temperature range.
US09719109B2 Protein with recombinase activity for site-specific DNA-recombination
The invention relates to the use of a protein with recombinase activity to catalyze a site-specific DNA recombination and a method for producing a site-specific DNA recombination. The invention is applicable alone or in combination with other recombinase systems for genetic manipulation, for example in medical research. The objective of the invention is solved by the use of a protein with recombinase activity to catalyze a site-specific DNA recombination at, preferably at two, recognition sites that are identical or reverse complementary to each other. The invention also includes a method for producing a site-specific DNA recombination comprising the steps of a) providing a cell comprising at least two recognition sites that are identical or reverse complementary to each other; and b) contacting a protein with recombinase activity with the recognition sites, thereby producing the site-specific DNA-recombination.
US09719101B2 Soybean GAPD promoter and its use in constitutive expression of transgenic genes in plants
The invention relates to gene expression regulatory sequences from soybean, specifically to the promoter of a soybean eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenasegene and fragments thereof and their use in promoting the expression of one or more heterologous nucleic acid fragments in a constitutive manner in plants. The invention further discloses compositions, polynucleotide constructs, transformed host cells, transgenic plants and seeds containing the recombinant construct with the promoter, and methods for preparing and using the same.
US09719095B2 Vectors and strains for producing myrcene and method of producing myrcene using the same
Disclosed herein are an expression vector capable of expressing myrcene, an Escherichia coli strain transformed with the vector and having improved capability of producing myrcene and a method for producing myrcene and a method for recycling glycerol using the same. In an aspect, the transformed Escherichia coli strain of the present disclosure can produce myrcene with high purity on a large scale using glycerol or glucose as a carbon source. Also, the Escherichia coli strain of the present disclosure is economical and environment-friendly because it can produce high value-added myrcene using waste glycerol as a carbon source. In addition, the strongly volatile myrcene can be produced and isolated at the same time.
US09719094B2 RNAi targeting SEC61G
Efficient sequence specific gene silencing is possible through the use of RNAi technology. By selecting particular RNAi molecules by rational design, one can maximize the generation of an effective gene silencing reagent, as well as methods for silencing genes. Methods, compositions, and kits generated through rational design of RNAi molecules are disclosed including those directed to nucleotide sequences for SEC61G.
US09719089B2 Nucleic acid functionalized nonoparticles for therapeutic applications
Materials and methods for regulating gene expression using nanoparticles functionalized with antisense oligonucleotides are provided.
US09719079B2 Aldolases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them
This invention relates to polypeptides having aldolase activity, including pyruvate activity such as, without limitation, HMG and/or KHG aldolase activity, polynucleotides encoding these polypeptides, and methods of making and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. In some embodiments, the invention is directed to polypeptides having aldolase activity, including pyruvate activity such as, without limitation, HMG and/or KHG aldolase activity, including thermostable and thermotolerant activity, and polynucleotides encoding these enzymes, and making and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. The polypeptides in accordance with the invention can be used in a variety of pharmaceutical, agricultural and industrial contexts. In some embodiments, the invention provides polypeptides and biosynthetic pathways that are useful in the production of R-2-hydroxy 2-(indol-3ylmethyl)-4-keto glutaric acid (R-MP) and certain stereoisomers of monatin, such as R,R and S,R monatin, and salts thereof, as well as certain stereoisomers of monatin derivatives, such as the R,R and S,R configurations, and salts thereof.
US09719077B2 Protease variants and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to protease variants and methods for obtaining protease variants. The present invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the variants; nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides; and methods of using the variants.
US09719072B2 Polypeptides having peroxygenase activity
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having peroxygenase activity, and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. A polynucleotide encoding a peroxygenase was isolated from Thielavia hyrcaniae.
US09719070B2 Methods of predicting ancestral virus sequences and uses thereof
Methods are described for predicting ancestral sequences for viruses or portions thereof. Also described are predicted ancestral sequences for adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid polypeptides. The disclosure also provides methods of gene transfer and methods of vaccinating subjects by administering a target antigen operably linked to the AAV capsid polypeptides.
US09719063B2 System and process for separating a material
Disclosed is a system to separate, enrich, and/or purify a cellular population from a biological tissue, such as a tissue sample. For example, an adipose tissue sample can be acquired and disrupted. The disrupted tissue sample can then be separated and purified. The separated components can include multipotent, pluripotent, or other cell populations.
US09719061B2 Assembly for selectively aerating a beverage
Disclosed herein is an assembly for selectively aerating a liquid including a base member a reservoir adapted to receive the liquid. The assembly also includes a support member non-rotatably coupled to the base member and a diverter member coupled to the support member and rotatable between a first diverter position and a second diverter position. The diverter member has at least one primary aperture and at least one secondary aperture. The assembly additionally includes an aerator member non-rotatably secured to the diverter member, the aerator member having an aeration aperture. In the first diverter position, a portion of the liquid in the reservoir flows through the primary aperture. In the second diverter position, a portion of the liquid in the reservoir flows through the secondary aperture, and though the aeration aperture.
US09719053B2 Leather and/or vinyl cleaner and moisturizer and method of making same
The present invention comprises a hard surface cleaning and treatment composition with a synergistic combination of mild surfactants that makes the composition particularly suited for leather, synthetic leather, vinyl and stainless steel. The composition is gentle and non-damaging to leather and synthetic leather, and leaves no sticky residue. The composition can clean food soils such as mustard, ketchup, shortening and grease and requires no personal protective equipment when being used. In addition, a method of preserving a leather surface or article by contacting said surface with said substrate is disclosed as well as specific methods associated with making the composition to form a stable water in oil emulsion.
US09719050B2 Anti-foam compositions comprising an organomodified silicone comprising one or more 2-phenylpropylmethyl moieties
The present application relates to anti-foam compositions and methods of making and using such compositions as well as consumer products that comprise such compositions and the use of same. Such anti-foam compositions have low viscosities yet are effective antifoamers.
US09719041B2 Low viscosity low volatility lubricating oil base stocks and processes for preparing same
A composition that includes one or more compounds represented by the formula R1—O—R2 wherein R1 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl or polyaryl group having from about 4 to about 40 carbon atoms, and R2 is the residue of a substituted or unsubstituted glycol ether having from about 4 to about 40 carbon atoms. The composition has a viscosity (Kv100) from about 1 to about 10 cSt at 100° C. as determined by ASTM D-445, a viscosity index (VI) from about −100 to about 300 as determined by ASTM D-2270, and a Noack volatility of no greater than 50 percent as determined by ASTM D-5800. The disclosure also relates to a process for producing the composition, a lubricating oil base stock and lubricating oil containing the composition, and a method for improving one or more of oxidative stability, solubility and dispersancy of polar additives of a lubricating oil by using as the lubricating oil a formulated oil containing the composition.
US09719038B2 Gasifier start-up method, gasifier, and integrated gasification combined cycle facility
A gasifier start-up method for a gasifier capable of preventing or inhibiting a temporary occurrence of black smoke when a gasifier is started-up. A gasifier start-up method for a gasifier, in which a gasifying agent and a solid carbonaceous fuel are supplied and gasified, includes a start-up burner igniting step of supplying a start-up fuel and oxygen-containing gas to a start-up burner and igniting the start-up fuel and oxygen-containing gas, under an inert atmosphere in which an inside of the gasifier around the start-up burner is filled with inert gas; and an oxygen-containing-gas supply adjusting step of adjusting the supply of the oxygen-containing gas such that combustion gas obtained after the combustion reaction of the start-up fuel and the oxygen-containing gas becomes the inert gas, which contains little oxygen.
US09719035B2 Method and compositions for inhibition of naphthenic acid induced corrosion
Corrosion induced by the presence of naphthenic acids in hydrocarbon fluids, particularly where such fluids are at elevated temperatures, may be inhibited or controlled through use of corrosion inhibiting compositions comprising a combination of a minor portion of a phosphorus-based constituent and a major portion of a sulfur-based constituent, nitrogen-based constituent, or combination thereof. In another embodiment the sulfur-based constituent and/or nitrogen-based constituent may be used without any phosphorus-based constituent. Where the compounds are appropriately selected, the compositions may inhibit corrosion to a degree comparable or nearly comparable to the inhibition provided by an equal amount of some conventional phosphorus-based compounds alone, but are significantly less likely to impair catalyst activity in downstream cracking and refinery operations.
US09719031B2 Titania-supported hydrotreating catalysts
TiO2-supported catalysts include at least molybdenum or tungsten as active components for hydrotreating processes, in particular for the removal of sulfur and nitrogen compounds as well as metals out of crude oil fractions and for the hydrogenation of sulfur oxides.
US09719025B2 Flow-through cavitation-assisted rapid modification of crude oil
A device and method are provided for manipulating petroleum, non-conventional oil and other viscous complex fluids made of hydrocarbons that comprise enforcement of fluid in a multi-stage flow-through hydrodynamic cavitational reactor, subjecting said fluids to a controlled cavitation and continuing the application of such cavitation for a period of time sufficient for obtaining desired changes in physical properties and/or chemical composition and generating the upgraded products. The method includes alteration of chemical bonds, induction of interactions of components, changes in composition, heterogeneity and rheological characteristics in order to facilitate handling, improve yields of distillate fuels and optimize other properties.
US09719024B2 Systems and methods for controlling, monitoring, and operating remote oil and gas field equipment over a data network with applications to raw natural gas processing and flare gas capture
An intelligent controls system for a field-deployable system for producing dry natural gas (NG) and natural gas liquids (NGLs) from a raw gas stream is disclosed. The control system is used to ensure correct specifications of both dry NG (above a desired minimum methane number) and NGLs (below a desired maximum vapor pressure) from any supplied raw natural gas source by controlling three system parameters: inlet gas flow rate, system operating pressure, and separator-reboiler temperature set point. The input parameters include: heat content of the input gas stream, volume of the input gas stream, desired methane number of the NG, and desired vapor pressure of the NGLs. The controls system allows any piece of remote field equipment for performing complex chemical processing to be monitored, controlled, and operated remotely. A large array of distributed field equipment situated around the world can all be controlled primarily through a single interface provided in a central control center.
US09719013B2 Phosphor, method for producing a phosphor and use of a phosphor
A phosphor is disclosed. In an embodiment a phosphor includes an inorganic substance which includes, in its composition, at least an element D, an element Al, an element AX, an element SX and an element NX where D includes one, two or more elements selected from the group consisting of Mn, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, alkali metals and Yb, Al includes one, two or more elements selected from the group consisting of divalent metals not included in D, SX includes one, two or more elements selected from the group consisting of tetravalent metals, AX includes one, two or more elements selected from the group consisting of trivalent metals, and NX includes one, two or more elements selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, C, Cl, and F, wherein the inorganic substance has the same crystal structure as Sr(SraCa1-a)Si2Al2N61.
US09719001B2 Working fluid composition for refrigerator
The present invention provides a working fluid composition for a refrigerating machine, comprising: a refrigerating machine oil comprising, as a base oil, a mixed ester of (A) a complex ester obtainable by synthesis of at least one polyhydric alcohol selected from neopentyl glycol, trimethylolpropane and pentaerythritol, a C6-C12 polybasic acid, and a C4-C18 monohydric alcohol or a C4-C18 monocarboxylic fatty acid, and (B) a polyol ester obtainable by synthesis of from at least one polyhydric alcohol selected from neopentyl glycol, trimethylolpropane, pentaerythritol and dipentaerythritol, and a C4-C18 monocarboxylic fatty acid, in a mass ratio of (A) the complex ester/(B) the polyol ester of 5/95 to 95/5; and tetrafluoropropene as a refrigerant, wherein a refrigerant dissolved viscosity, at a temperature of 80° C. and an absolute pressure of 1.6 MPa, is 1.5 mm2/s or more.
US09718989B1 Coatings containing polyester macromers containing 1,1-dicarbonyl-substituted 1 alkenes
Compositions comprising a) one or more polyester macromers containing one or more chains of the residue of one or more diols and one or more diesters wherein the residue of the one or more diols and the one or more diesters alternate along the chain and a portion of the diesters are 1,1-diester-1-alkenes and at least one terminal end comprises the residue of one of the 1,1-diester-1 alkenes and wherein one or more terminal ends may comprise the residue of one or more diols; and b) one or more polymers having pendant Michael Addition donor groups. Disclosed are coating prepared from these compositions.
US09718987B2 Blocked bio-based carboxylic acids and their use in thermosetting materials
This invention relates to bio-based polyfunctional carboxylic acids reacted with vinyl ether compounds to form liquid vinyl-blocked bio-based polyfunctional carboxylic acids. These liquid vinyl-blocked bio-based polyfunctional carboxylic acids can be mixed with a polyfunctional vegetable oil-based epoxy resin to form a homogeneous curable coating composition. Upon curing at elevated temperature, thermoset coatings are formed which have excellent hardness, solvent resistance, adhesion, and flexibility. The invention also relates to the use of a curable coating composition comprising at least one polyfunctional vegetable oil-based epoxy resin and at least one vinyl-blocked bio-based polyfunctional carboxylic acid, which may be coated onto a substrate and cured thermally. Methods of making the vinyl-blocked bio-based polyfunctional carboxylic acids and curable coating compositions and substrates containing the same are also disclosed.
US09718984B2 Multi-acid multi-base graft copolymer dispersants
A composition comprising particulate solid, an organic medium and a dispersant comprising a polyacrylic copolymer functionalized with a polyether and reacted with an aminic polybasic species.
US09718980B2 Coating composition and coated paper
A coating composition for forming a paper coat includes nano-fibrillated cellulose, pigment, latex, an auxiliary additive, and water. On a dry weight basis, the nano-fibrillated cellulose is in an amount by weight of 0.02 parts to 10 parts in the total composition, the pigment is in an amount by weight of 75 parts to 95 parts in the total composition, the latex is in an amount by weight of 5 parts to 15 parts in the total composition, and the auxiliary additive is in an amount by weight of 0.35 parts to 10 parts in the total composition.
US09718968B2 Waterborne coating composition containing bio-resourced polytrimethylene ether polyol
A coating composition having excellent adhesion between coating layers is provided. This disclosure is particularly directed to a 1K waterborne coating composition having hydrophobic polytrimethylene ether polyol containing crosslinkable functional hydroxyl groups. The 1K waterborne coating composition can be used in a multi-layer coating that can comprise a primer layer, a basecoat layer, and optionally, a clearcoat layer. The 1K waterborne coating composition of this disclosure can provide improved adhesion between coating layers, such as between a primer layer and a basecoat layer, between two or more basecoat layers, or between a basecoat layer and a clearcoat layer. This disclosure is further directed to a coating composition comprising components derived from renewable resources.
US09718964B2 Sacrificial coating and indirect printing apparatus employing sacrificial coating on intermediate transfer member
A sacrificial coating on an intermediate transfer member of an aqueous ink imaging system is disclosed. The sacrificial coating is made from ingredients comprising: a waxy starch; at least one polycarboxylic acid cross-linking agent; at least one hygroscopic material; and at least one surfactant.
US09718962B2 Composition for latex pad, producing method thereof, and the latex pads made therefrom
The present invention relates to a composition for preparation of latex pads, comprising natural latex, artificial latex, sliver nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles, and active carbon mixed in a specified proportion. The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing latex pads from the composition.
US09718952B2 Slush molding composition
A thermoplastic polypropylene composition comprising polypropylene, a hydrogenated block copolymer, 3 to 6 wt % high density polyethylene, a processing oil, and greater than or equal to 3 wt % of a surface modifier comprising an ultra high molecular weight polydialkyl siloxane, an ultra-high molecular weight polydialkyl siloxane in combination with silica, a polyolefin siloxane or a combination thereof, wherein weight percent is based on the total weight of the composition.
US09718946B2 Catalyst formulations with reduced leachable salts
Embodiments of the present technology may include a carbohydrate binder composition. The carbohydrate binder composition may include a carbohydrate, a nitrogen-containing compound, and a catalyst. The catalyst may catalyze a reaction between the carbohydrate and the nitrogen-containing compound. The catalyst may be water soluble in the composition but may become water insoluble after curing the composition.
US09718933B2 Optical film, and polarizing plate and liquid crystal display device employing same
The invention is an optical film at least containing cellulose acylate and a compound having a structure denoted by General Formula (I) described below, and a polarizing plate and a liquid crystal display device employing the optical film. R1 and R3 represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, a cycloalkyl group, a cycloalkenyl group, or an aryl group, and R5a and R5b represent an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, a cycloalkyl group, a cycloalkenyl group, an aryl group, or a heterocyclic group. R1, R3, R5a, and R5b may have a substituent group.
US09718929B2 Chelating amphiphilic polymers
Described are amphiphilic polymers that are provided with chelating moieties. The amphiphilic polymers are block copolymers comprising a hydrophilic block and a hydrophobic block, with the chelating moieties linked to the end-group of the hydrophilic block. The disclosed polymers are capable of self-assembly into structures such as micelles and polymersomes. With suitable metals present in the form of coordination complexes with the chelating moieties, the chelating amphiphilic polymers of the invention are suitable for use in various imaging techniques requiring metal labeling, such as MRI (T1/T2 weighted contrast agents or CEST contrast agents) SPECT, PET or Spectral CT.
US09718923B2 High molecular weight, monoesterified polymide polymer containing a small amount of bulky diamine
One method as described herein relates to making a high molecular weight, monoesterified polyimide polymer using a small amount of bulky diamine. These high molecular weight, monoesterified polyimide polymers are useful in forming crosslinked polymer membranes with high permeance that are useful for the separation of fluid mixtures. Another method as described herein relates to making the crosslinked membranes from the high molecular weight, monoesterified polyimide polymer containing a small amount of bulky diamine. The small amount of bulky diamine allows for formation of both the high molecular weight polyimide polymer and for covalent ester crosslinks via reaction of the carboxylic acid groups with a diol crosslinking agent. This small amount of bulky diamines reduces chain mobility or segmental motion during crosslinking and reduces large loss of permeance. As such, this method provides a crosslinked membrane with good permeance and selectivity.
US09718922B2 Polymerization enhanced by nanostructures under X-ray irradiation
The methods disclosed herein are directed to methods of enhancing formation of a polymer from a monomer on a metal-based nanoparticle under X-ray irradiation and compositions produced by such methods. The method comprises irradiating a monomer solution with X-rays to form the polymer; wherein the monomer solution comprises the monomer, the metal-based nanoparticle, and a solvent capable of generating a hydroxyl radical; and wherein the metal-based nanoparticle is a particle having a greatest dimension between 5 and 100 nanometers. The methods also include the dissolution metal ions from these same metal-based nanoparticles wherein the solution comprises the metal-based nanoparticle and a solvent capable of generating a hydroxyl radical; and wherein the metal-based nanoparticle is a particle having a greatest dimension between 5 and 100 nanometers.
US09718917B2 Production and use of new thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers based on polyether carbonate polyols
The invention relates to a method for producing a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer based on polyether carbonate polyols. The method comprises a first step, in which at least A) an organic diisocyanate and B) a polyol having a number-average molecular weight Mn>=500 and <=5000 g/mol are reacted to form an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer. In a second step, the prepolymer is reacted with C) one or more chain extenders having a molecular weight>=60 and <=490 g/mol and optionally D) a monofunctional chain stopper or E) an organic diisocyanate, wherein optionally at least F) one catalyst is used in the first and/or second step.; The molar ratio of the sum of the isocyanate groups from A) and, if applicable, E) to the sum of the groups reactive to isocyanate in B), C), and, if applicable, D) is >=0.9:1 and <=12:1, and component B) contains at least one polyether carbonate polyol, which can be obtained by adding carbon dioxide and alkylene oxides to H-functional starter substances. The invention further relates to a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer produced in accordance with the method according to the invention, the use of said thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer to produce extruded or injection molded items, and the items produced by extrusion or injection molding.
US09718913B2 Carbinol-terminated polymers containing amine
The present invention relates to diene polymers, wherein the diene polymers have, at the start of the polymer chains, tertiary amino groups of the formula (I) or (II) where R1, R2 are the same or different and are each alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl and aralkyl radicals which may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si, Z is a divalent organic radical which, as well as C and H, may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si, and, at the end of the polymer chains, silane-containing carbinol groups of the formula (III) or metal salts thereof or semimetal salts thereof, where R3, R4, R5, R6 are the same or different and are each an H or alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl and aralkyl radicals which may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si, A is a divalent organic radical which, as well as C and H, may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si.
US09718912B2 Carbinol-terminated polymers containing allylamine
The present invention relates to diene polymers or diene copolymers, wherein the diene polymers or diene copolymers have, at the start of the polymer chains, tertiary amino groups of the formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa) or (IIb) where R1, R2 are the same or different and are each alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl and aralkyl radicals which may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si, Z is a divalent organic radical which, as well as C and H, may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si, and, at the end of the polymer chains, silane-containing carbinol groups of the formula (III) or metal salts thereof or semimetal salts thereof, where R3, R4, R5, R6 are the same or different and are each an H or alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl and aralkyl radicals which may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si, A is a divalent organic radical which, as well as C and H, may contain heteroatoms such as O, N, S and/or Si.
US09718900B2 Ligands for catalysts
Catalyst systems and methods for making and using the same. A catalyst system can include a non-metallocene catalyst having the structure: wherein M is a group 4 element, each of R13-R20 are independently a hydrogen or a methyl group, wherein at least one of R13-R20 is a methyl group, Ar is an aryl group or a substituted aryl group, Ar′ is an aryl group or a substituted aryl group, and each X is, independently, a hydride group, an amide, a benzyl group, a methyl group, a chloro group, a fluoro group, or a hydrocarbyl group.
US09718898B1 Homogeneous polymerization catalyst for alpha olefins
A homogeneous polymerization catalyst system for polymerization or copolymerization of at least one alpha olefin has a Lewis acid, an alkyl aluminum in a hexane or a heptane, and at least one dry metallocene. The at least one dry metallocene has a transition metal compound. The Lewis acid is capable of forming an ion pair with the at least one dry metallocene. The homogeneous polymerization catalyst system produces a poly alpha olefin from alpha olefin monomers or mixed alpha olefins. A produced poly alpha olefin has a kinematic viscosity at 100 degrees Celsius ranging from 1 cSt to 1000 cSt.
US09718895B2 Process for producing acrylic rubber/fluorinated rubber composition, crosslinkable composition, laminate and heat resistant air rubber hose
To provide a process for producing an acrylic rubber/fluorinated rubber composition, capable of forming a layer excellent in the interlayer-adhesion with a layer formed by crosslinking a fluorinated rubber.A process for producing an acrylic rubber/fluorinated rubber composition having particles of a crosslinked acrylic rubber (B) dispersed in a continuous phase of a fluorinated rubber (A), which comprises kneading a fluorinated rubber (A), a crosslinking agent for an acrylic rubber and a crosslinking coagent for an acrylic rubber to obtain a fluorinated rubber composition containing the crosslinking agent for an acrylic rubber and the crosslinking coagent for an acrylic rubber, and kneading under heating the obtained fluorinated rubber composition and an acrylic rubber (B) in a mass ratio of fluorinated rubber (A)/acrylic rubber (B)=5/95 to 50/50 to crosslink the acrylic rubber (B), and dispersing particles of the crosslinked acrylic rubber (B) in a continuous phase of the fluorinated rubber (A).
US09718886B2 Cancer therapy using CLDN6 target-directed antibodies in vivo
The invention relates to the treatment and/or prevention of tumor diseases associated with cells expressing CLDN6, in particular cancer and cancer metastasis using antibodies which bind to CLDN6. The present application demonstrates that the binding of antibodies to CLDN6 on the surface of tumor cells is sufficient to inhibit growth of the tumor and to prolong survival and extend the lifespan of tumor patients. Furthermore, binding of antibodies to CLDN6 is efficient in inhibiting growth of CLDN6 positive germ cell tumors such as teratocarcinomas or embryonal carcinomas, in particular germ cell tumors of the testis.
US09718882B2 Anti-NGF antibodies that selectively inhibit the association of NGF with TrkA, without affecting the association of NGF with P75
This invention pertains to NGF antagonists including antibodies and antibody fragments thereof having binding specificity to human Nerve Growth Factor (“NGF”), and methods of treating pain. Methods of treating pain or eliciting an analgesic effect in an individual comprising administering an effective amount of an NGF antagonist inhibits the association of NGF with TrkA without inhibiting the association of NGF with p75. The methods may further comprise administering an effective amount of a second anti-human NGF antibody or fragment thereof which inhibits the association of NGF with p75, that may further also inhibit the association of NGF with TrkA.
US09718878B2 Kit for detecting Cthrc1 in a sample
The invention provides methods for the treatment of coronary heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, stroke, and ischemia featuring agents that interfere with the expression or activity of Cthrc1. The invention also provides the use of Cthrc1 peptide as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of acute or chronic cardiac deficiencies. The invention further provides detection and monitoring of Cthrc1 peptide in blood or serum to assess or monitor cardiac function.
US09718875B2 Composition and methods based on neutralizing antibodies delivered intranasally for enhanced therapeutic efficacy
The present invention provides methods for treatment or prophylaxis of viruses, particularly influenza virus, by administration of agents, particularly neutralizing antibodies or active fragments thereof, directly to the respiratory tract, including by intranasal or inhalation administration. The invention provides compositions suitable for intranasal or inhalation treatment and administration. The invention includes methods for treatment or prophylaxis combining intranasal or inhalation administration with intraperitoneal or intravenous administration of antibodies.
US09718873B2 Broadly neutralizing human antibody that recognizes the receptor-binding pocket of influenza hemagglutinin
The invention features a novel influenza antibody that specifically binds to influenza hemagglutinin and reduces or inhibits hemagglutinin binding to sialic acid. The invention also provides methods, compositions, and kits featuring the novel antibody and its use in preventing or treating influenza infection.
US09718870B2 OX40L fusion proteins and uses thereof
The disclosure provides OX40L huIgG4 fusion polypeptide subunits comprising a human IgG4 Fc domain, a trimerization domain, and the receptor binding domain of Ox40 ligand, where the fusion polypeptide subunits can self-assemble into hexameric proteins. Also provided are methods of making fusion polypeptide subunits and hexameric proteins, and methods of use, e.g., treatment of cancer.
US09718868B2 Parathyroid hormone, insulin, and related peptides conjugated to bone targeting moieties and methods and making and using thereof
Described herein is insulin, an insulin-like growth factor, parathyroid hormone, a fragment of parathyroid hormone, or a parathyroid hormone related protein that includes at least one bone targeting moiety, wherein the bone targeting moiety is covalently bonded to the peptide. Also described herein are the methods of making these compositions that prevent or treat conditions associated with bone loss and preventing bone fractures, and/or the inability to initiate de novo bone turnover and stimulate bone fracture repair.
US09718862B2 Polypeptides and their use in treating and limiting respiratory syncytial virus infection
The present invention provides polypeptides and compositions thereof for treating or limiting respiratory syncytial virus infection, and computational methods for designing such polypeptides.
US09718853B2 Anhydrous polymorphs of [(2R,3S,4R,5R)-5-(6-(cyclopentylamino)-9H-purin-9-YL)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-YL)] methyl nitrate and processes of preparation thereof
The present invention provides novel anhydrous polymorph forms of [(2R,3S,4R,5R)-5-(6-(cyclopentylamino)-9H-purin-9-yl)-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2-yl)]methyl nitrate (compound A), a selective adenosine A1 receptor agonist with a number of therapeutic uses including the treatment of elevated intra-ocular pressure. Also provided are methods for the preparation of the anhydrous polymorphic forms of compound A, pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment.
US09718848B2 Compounds
A compound of Formula (I) wherein Y1, Y2, X1, X2, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R8, and R9 are as defined herein; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and tautomers thereof, compositions, combinations and medicaments containing said compounds and processes for their preparation. The invention also relates to the use of said compounds, combinations, compositions and medicaments, in the treatment of diseases in which modulation of STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) is beneficial, for example inflammation, allergic and autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, cancer, pre-cancerous syndromes and as vaccine adjuvants.
US09718847B2 Heterocyclic compounds and uses thereof
Heterocyclic compounds of formula (I), methods for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing such a compound and their therapeutic uses.
US09718843B2 Low pH sysnthesis of zinc-lysine complex
The disclosure provides an improved synthesis for a zinc-lysine complex having the formula [Zn(C6H14N2O2)2Cl]+Cl−, in which a zinc compound selected from ZnO and ZnCl2, is reacted with a lysine compound selected from lysine and lysine.HCl, in aqueous acid. The disclosure also provides oral care and personal care compositions comprising the complex prepared by the synthesis, and methods of using these complexes and compositions.
US09718838B2 Inhibitors of EZH2
The present invention relates to compounds that inhibit activity of the histone lysine methyltransferase, Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2), pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and methods of using the compounds to treat cancer, such as hematologic and solid tumors.
US09718835B2 20(S)-sulfonylamidine derivatives of camptothecin and the use thereof as a potent antitumor agent
The present invention is related to novel 20-sulfonylamidine derivatives of camptothecin (1), method of synthesizing the same, and use thereof as an antitumor agent, for examples an antitumor agent for treating nasopharyngeal, lung, breast or prostate cancer.
US09718831B2 Crystals of dispiropyrrolidine derivatives
Crystals of a dispiropyrrolidine compound or a salt thereof which inhibits the action of Mdm2 are provided. The present invention provides crystals of (3′R,4′S,5′R)—N-[(3R,6S)-6-carbamoyltetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-yl]-6″-chloro-4′-(2-chloro-3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-4,4-dimethyl-2″-oxo-1″,2″-dihydrodispiro[cyclohexane-1,2′-pyrrolidine-3′,3″-indole]-5′-carboxamide or a salt thereof which inhibits Mdm2 and has anti-tumor activity. The present invention also provides a medicament comprising the same.
US09718825B2 N-(4-(azaindazol-6-yl)-phenyl)-sulfonamides and their use as pharmaceuticals
The present invention relates to N-(4-(azaindazol-6-yl)-phenyl)-sulfonamides of the formula I, wherein Ar, n, X, Z, R1, R2 and R3 have the meanings indicated in the claims. The compounds of the formula I are valuable pharmacologically active compounds which modulate protein kinase activity, specifically the activity of serum and glucocorticoid regulated kinase (SGK), in particular of serum and glucocorticoid regulated kinase isoform 1 (SGK-1, SGK1), and are suitable for the treatment of diseases in which SGK activity is inappropriate, for example degenerative joint disorders or inflammatory processes such as osteoarthritis or rheumatism. The invention furthermore relates to processes for the preparation of the compounds of the formula I, their use as pharmaceuticals, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US09718808B2 Inhibitors of the renal outer medullary potassium channel
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I) and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, which are inhibitors of the ROMK (Kir1.1) channel. The compounds may be used as diuretic and/or natriuretic agents and for the therapy and prophylaxis of medical conditions including cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart failure and chronic kidney disease and conditions associated with excessive salt and water retention.
US09718799B2 3-aryl-4H-chromene-4-ones as antineoplastic agents for the treatment of cancer
Isoflavonoids or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof or pharmaceutically acceptable compositions thereof for the treatment of prostate cancer or for the treatment or inhibition of prostate cancer metastasis in a patient in need thereof are disclosed.
US09718798B2 Solid forms of 5-(halomethyl)furfural and methods for preparing thereof
Provided are solid forms of 5-(halomethyl)furfural, including a crystalline form of 5-(chloromethyl)furfural. Provided are also methods for preparing solid forms of 5-(halomethyl)furfural by crystallization using certain solvents.
US09718789B2 Substituted triazoles and methods relating thereto
Substituted 1,2,3-triazole compounds are disclosed which have utility in the treatment of a variety of neurological disorders. The compounds provided herein have the general structure: wherein R1, R2, R3 and n are as defined herein, including stereoisomers, esters, solvates and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Also disclosed are compositions containing a compound provided herein in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as well as methods relating to the use thereof for treating neurological disorders in a subject in need thereof.
US09718785B2 1,3-Disubstituted cyclopentane derivatives
Compounds of the formula I in which R, Y, R1, X1, X2, X3 and q have the meanings indicated in claim 1, are inhibitors of fatty acid synthase, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, central nervous system injury and different forms of inflammation.
US09718784B2 Substituted pyrazoles as heat shock transcription factor activators
The present invention relates to substituted pyrazole compounds, methods for their discovery, and their research and therapeutic uses, as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, chelates, non-covalent complexes, prodrugs, mixtures (including both R and S enantiomeric forms and racemic mixtures thereof) and pharmaceutical formulations thereof.
US09718783B2 Process for the preparation of 4-alkoxy-3-hydroxypicolinic acids
4,6-Dibromo-3-hydroxypicolinonitrile may be prepared from furfural in a series of chemical steps selected from cyano-amination, amine salt formation and bromination-rearrangement. 4-Alkoxy-3-hydroxypicolinic acids may be conveniently prepared from 4,6-dibromo-3-hydroxypicolinonitrile in a series of chemical steps selected from bromo substitution, nitrile hydrolysis and halogen reduction.
US09718768B2 System for purifying, producing and storing biomolecules
The invention relates to a lock-release method to be applied to biomolecules, such as antibodies, to improve the purification, production, stability and storage of biomolecules. A biomolecule is covalently bound to a polymer support comprising a diketone group so that the biomolecule can be purified, produced and/or stored before being released from the support. The diketone group of the polymer support is a 1,3-ketoester, 1,3-ketothioester or 1,3-ketoamide is a group of Formula (1): R1 is an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl, perhalogenated hydrocarbyl, or a heterocyclyl group; Y is hydrogen, an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl, or a heterocyclyl group; X is —O, —NR2 or —S, wherein the free valence of —O, —NR2 or —S is bonded to the support optionally via a linker; and R2 is hydrogen, an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl, or a heterocyclyl group. The invention also relates to a polymer support comprising the diketone group.
US09718767B2 Beta-mercaptoethanol synthesis
A process includes reacting, in a reactor having a fixed bed containing a solid catalyst which contains a heterogeneous ion exchange resin, hydrogen sulfide and ethylene oxide in the presence of the solid catalyst to yield a reaction product which contains beta-mercaptoethanol. A reactor system includes the reactor, an ethylene oxide stream, a hydrogen sulfide stream, a fixed bed containing the solid catalyst placed in the reactor, and an effluent stream containing the reaction product. During steady state operation of the reactor in the process and the reactor system, the hydrogen sulfide and the ethylene oxide are present in a mole ratio in a range of about 9:1 to about 20:1.
US09718766B2 High penetration drugs and their compositions thereof for treatment of parkinson diseases
One aspect of the invention provides a composition of novel high penetration compositions (HPC) or a high penetration prodrug (HPP) for treatment of Parkinson's disease. The HPCs/HPPs are capable of being converted to parent active drugs or drug metabolites after crossing the biological barrier and thus can render treatments for the conditions that the parent drugs or metabolites can. Additionally, the HPPs are capable of reaching areas that parent drugs may not be able to access or to render a sufficient concentration at the target areas and therefore render novel treatments. The HPCs/HPPs can be administered to a subject through various administration routes, e.g., locally delivered to an action site of a condition with a high concentration or systematically administered to a biological subject and enter the general circulation with a faster rate.
US09718761B2 Method for producing A-hydroxyisobutyric acid amide and reactor
The present invention provides a method for producing α-hydroxyisobutyric acid amide by hydration of acetone cyanohydrin under the presence of a catalyst composed mainly of manganese oxide using a reactor in which at least two reaction regions are connected in series, the method being characterized by comprising: a step (B) of cyclically supplying at least a portion of a reaction liquid withdrawn from at least one reaction region to a first reaction region (I) in the reactor; and a step (b1) of further cyclically supplying at least a portion of the reaction liquid withdrawn from at least one reaction region to at least one reaction region other than the first reaction region. The method is also characterized in that an oxidizing agent is supplied to at least one reaction region in the reactor.
US09718760B2 Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 inhibitors and methods of use thereof
The invention relates to plasminogen activator-1 (PAI-1) inhibitor compounds and uses thereof in the treatment of any disease or disorder associated with elevated PAI-1. The invention includes, but is not limited to, the use of such compounds to prevent or reduce thrombosis and fibrosis, to promote thrombolysis, and to modulate lipid metabolism and treat diseases or disorders associated with elevated PAI-1, cholesterol, or lipid levels.
US09718759B2 Lipid comprising docosapentaenoic acid
The present invention relates to extracted plant lipid or microbial lipid comprising docosapentaenoic acid, and processes for producing the extracted lipid.
US09718757B2 System and method for separating lipid based products from biomass
Methods and systems for the production and isolation of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) from a lipid source are described. The method includes extracting a lipid from a lipid source and transesterifying the lipid into a FAME. The method may also include fractionating the FAME from the system. A method of selectively transesterifying a lipid into a FAME is also described.
US09718749B2 Process for the preparation of 3,7-dimethylnonan-1-ol
The present invention is related to a novel and improved process for the preparation of 3,7-dimethylnonan-1-ol.
US09718738B2 Fertilizer compositions and methods of making the same
Fertilizer compositions are provided, where a fertilizer composition includes: an inner portion including a nitrogen containing material; and an outer portion covering the inner portion, the outer portion including a release agent (e.g. HTC, BR).
US09718737B2 Decorative coating compositions
A coating composition includes water, a plurality of flakes having a maximum dimension less than 0.05 inches, a plurality of inorganic fibers, a thixotropic suspending agent that is insoluble in water, and a resin. Decorative coating on a concrete substrate is also provided.
US09718734B2 Thermal spray material
Disclosed is a technique for suppressing a firing property and a dust generating property while improving bondability, in a thermal spray material for use in a thermite spraying process. The thermal spray material comprises a refractory material powder and a metal Si powder and capable of being sprayed onto a target surface using oxygen or oxygen-containing gas as a carrier gas and melt-adhered to the target surface based on heat generated by combustion of the metal Si powder, wherein the metal Si powder is contained in an amount of 10 to 25 mass % with respect to the entire thermal spray material, and wherein the metal Si powder has a median size of 10 μm or less, and contains a fraction having a particle size of 2 μm or less in an amount of 8 mass % or less with respect to the entire metal Si powder.
US09718730B1 Reinforcing fiber and material formed therewith
A reinforcing fiber and reinforced material, which includes a fiber having a first radical wave therein, wherein said first radical wave includes an amplitude of between about 0.5 to 1 cm and a wave run width of about 0.05 to about 0.3 cm, and a leading run and trailing run of at least about 0.75.
US09718720B2 Cooling tube assembly for cooling of the interior of a container
A cooling tube assembly is provided. The assembly includes a cylindrical cooling tube extending from a first end to a second end. The cooling tube has an inner surface, an outer surface, an inner diameter, and an outer diameter. The cooling tube includes a first plurality of throughbores and a second plurality of throughbores located axially between the first plurality of throughbores and the second end of the cooling tube. Each of the second plurality of throughbores is circumferentially offset from each of the first plurality of throughbores. The assembly includes a nozzle extending from a first end to a second end. The first end of the nozzle is located inside the cooling tube. The first plurality of throughbores is located axially between the second end of the cooling tube and the first end of the nozzle.
US09718713B2 Arsenic removal system
A system is provided for removing arsenic from water to safe levels at or below the EPA standards. The system is a hybrid spouted vessel/fixed bed filter system that significantly enhances/improves arsenic removal for drinking water using zero-valent iron (ZVI) particles. Movement of the circulating, iron-containing particles in a dense moving bed that forms on the spouted vessel bottom creates an abrasive “self-polishing” action among them that continuously generates colloidal iron corrosion products. This material then circulates with the water in the vessel and is removed and concentrated in a fixed bed filter. The colloidal material captured and immobilized in the filter has been shown to remove arsenic from contaminated water at very rapid rates.
US09718710B2 Treatment apparatus and method for reusing treatment liquid
According to one embodiment, a treatment apparatus includes a dialysis unit, a treatment unit and a recovery unit. The dialysis unit is configured to dialyze a solution including a phosphoric acid, a silicon compound, and water. The treatment unit is configured to perform treatment of an object to be treated using a dialyzed solution. The recovery unit is configured to recover a solution used in the treatment of the object to be treated and supply to the dialysis unit. The dialysis unit includes a transmission part which allows anions to be transmitted. The recovery unit supplies the solution used in the treatment of the object to be treated, to a region in the dialysis unit. The region is divided by the transmission part.
US09718700B2 Magnetoelectric chromia having increased critical temperature
A magnetoelectric composition of boron and chromia is provided. The boron and chromia alloy can contain boron doping of 1%-10% in place of the oxygen in the chromia. The boron-doped chromia exhibits an increased critical temperature while maintaining magnetoelectric characteristics. The composition can be fabricated by depositing chromia in the presence of borane. The boron substitutes oxygen in the chromia, enhancing the exchange energy and thereby increasing Néel temperature.
US09718695B2 Visible light sensitive photocatalyst, method of producing the same, and electrochemical water decomposition cell, water decomposition system, and organic material decomposition system each including the same
A visible light sensitive photocatalyst including a compound represented by Formula 1: Aa-xM1xSib-yM2yOc  Formula 1 wherein A is one or more metals selected from Ag, Cu, and Au; M1 is one or more metals selected from Li, Na, K, Rb, and Cs; M2 is one or more metals selected from Ge, Sn, Ti, Zr, and Hf, and 1.7≦a≦2.3, 0.7≦b≦1.3, 2.7≦c≦3.3, 0≦x
US09718683B2 System and method for precision transport, positioning, and assembling of longitudinal nano-structures
A method for assembling multi-component nano-structures that includes dispersing a plurality of nano-structures in a fluid medium, and applying an electric field having an alternating current (AC) component and a direct current (DC) component to the fluid medium containing the plurality of nano-structures. The electric field causes a first nano-structure from the plurality of nano-structures to move to a predetermined position and orientation relative to a second nano-structure of the plurality of nano-structures such that the first and second nano-structures assemble into a multi-component nano-structure.
US09718678B2 Package arrangement, a package, and a method of manufacturing a package arrangement
According to various embodiments, a package arrangement may include: a first encapsulation material; at least one electronic circuit at least partially embedded in the first encapsulation material, the at least one electronic circuit including a first contact pad structure at a first side of the at least one electronic circuit; at least one electromechanical device disposed over the first side of the at least one electronic circuit, the at least one electromechanical device including a second contact pad structure facing the first side of the at least one electronic circuit; a redistribution layer structure between the at least one electromechanical device and the at least one electronic circuit, the redistribution layer structure electrically connecting the first contact pad structure with the second contact pad structure, wherein a gap is provided between the at least one electromechanical device and the redistribution layer structure; a second encapsulation material at least partially covering the at least one electromechanical device, wherein the gap is free of the second encapsulation material.
US09718677B1 Semiconductor structure and manufacturing method thereof
In the present disclosure a semiconductor device comprises a plate including a plurality of apertures. The semiconductor device also comprises a membrane disposed opposite to the plate and including a plurality of corrugations, a dielectric surrounding and covering an edge of the membrane, and a substrate. The semiconductor device further includes a metallic conductor comprising a first portion extending through the dielectric, and a second portion over the substrate, where the second portion is bonded with the first portion.
US09718675B2 Microelectromechanical device with signal routing through a protective cap
A microelectromechanical device includes: a body accommodating a microelectromechanical structure; and a cap bonded to the body and electrically coupled to the microelectromechanical structure through conductive bonding regions. The cap including a selection module, which has first selection terminals coupled to the microelectromechanical structure, second selection terminals, and at least one control terminal, and which can be controlled through the control terminal to couple the second selection terminals to respective first selection terminals according, selectively, to one of a plurality of coupling configurations corresponding to respective operating conditions.
US09718667B2 System for use in horseback riding
A system for horseback riding comprising an inverse stirrup which allows a horseback rider to use the top of the rider's foot to resist upward or transverse forces so as to maintain the rider's position on the horse. The inverse stirrup is attached to the horse by a circumferential or semi-circumferential strap passing beneath the horse such as the girth strap, or directly to the saddle, such that the system resists upward displacement of the inverse stirrup.
US09718664B2 Closing valve and container comprising the same
A closing valve for a container for a fluid includes an outer jacket connected or connectable to an opening in the container or forming part of the container. An inner jacket is accommodated inside the outer jacket and has an opening through which the fluid can be fed to or withdrawn from the container. A closing element is positioned inside the inner jacket or between the inner jacket and the outer jacket and movable between at least a first position closing the opening and a second position clearing the opening, wherein at least the closing element is made from a polymer material. The closing element comprises a sealing member and a spring, which urges the closing element into the first position.
US09718659B2 Lifting device
A lifting device including a body, a sliding member, a pulley, a worm, an elastic member and a connecting member is provided. The sliding member is used to set an object and stays at any position between two positions. The pulley has a fist groove. A curvature radius of the first groove is a constant value. The worm has a second groove. A curvature radius of the second groove is a non-constant value. The elastic member is disposed in the body. When the sliding member is slid between the two positions, the pulley and the worm are rotated in at least one circle. A sum which a first torque generated by a gravity of the object and the sliding member with the curvature radius of the first groove and a second torque generated by a force of the elastic member with the curvature radius of the second groove is zero.
US09718643B2 Elevator alignment tool
An elevator alignment tool includes a longitudinal frame having rollers being configured to run along the surface of a guide rail of an elevator construction, which frame includes a bias device for biasing the frame against the guide rail and a connecting part configured to be connected to an elevator car or an installation time platform, which tool further includes a laser mounted to the frame. This alignment tool allows an easy alignment of new guide rails to be installed during elevator installation or an easy verification of the guide rail alignment of a ready built elevator construction.
US09718638B2 Fiber optic reel stand with axle bearing assembly
A reel frame stand for supporting a reel thereon comprises a first pair of hingedly connected legs oppositely disposed from a second pair of hingedly connected legs; a first axle bearing on the first pair of legs and a second axle bearing on the second pair of legs, and each of the first and second axle bearings comprising a base and a bushing having a cylindrical inner surface surrounding an open channel; an axle having opposing cylindrical portions being rotatably secured within the open channels of the opposing first and second axle bearings to permit selective rotation of the reel supported thereon; a first brace having one end being rotatably secured to one of the legs of the first pair of legs and a second end being selectively securable at one of a plurality of ports on the first pair of legs by a fastener that is sized and configured for engaged receipt within each of the plurality of ports; a second brace having one end being rotatably secured to one of the legs of the second pair of legs and a second end being selectively securable at one of a plurality of ports on the second pair of legs by a fastener that is sized and configured for engaged receipt within each of the plurality of ports; and wherein each of the first and second pairs of hingedly connected legs may be selectively positioned relative to each other in one of a plurality of configurations including a flat configuration, a closed configuration and an open configuration.
US09718636B2 Tape cartridge
The disclosure discloses a tape cartridge comprising a first tape roll, a second tape roll, a connecting part, and a pair of gripped parts. A first tape consumed by feed-out is wound around the first tape roll. The second tape roll winds a second tape around an axis extending along the first direction and provided on a downstream side of the first tape roll. The second tape is generated by a feeding of the first tape. The connecting part is provided so as to connect the first tape roll and the second tape roll. The pair of gripped parts extends along the second direction, each respectively provided on either side of the connecting part along the first direction. The gripped part comprises a slip preventing part configured to prevent slipping during gripping on an end of the gripped part in the one side along the second direction.
US09718634B2 Sheet thickness detector, sheet conveyor incorporating same, and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A sheet thickness detector incorporated in a sheet conveyor and/or an image forming apparatus includes multiple first rollers aligned in a direction perpendicular to a sheet conveying direction, multiple second rollers facing the respective first rollers, a first roller shaft supporting two first rollers, at least one second roller shaft supporting rollers other than the two first rollers, at least one third roller shaft to support at least three second rollers, a first roller shaft holder supporting the first roller shaft to move from the at least one third roller shaft in a contact/separation direction, a biasing member biasing the first roller shaft toward at least one third roller shaft, and a displacement amount detector detecting an amount of displacement of the first roller shaft. A thickness of a sheet between the first and second rollers is detected based on a detection result by the displacement amount detector.
US09718631B2 Sheet container and image forming apparatus incorporating the sheet container
A sheet container, which is included in an image forming apparatus, includes a container body, a body side stopper device, a sheet tray, a tray side stopper device, a tray handler, a releasing device, and a tray locking device. The tray side stopper device has a tray side stopper portion to be engaged with the body side stopper device. The releasing device moves the body side stopper device along with movement of the tray handler from the first position to the second position. The releasing device cancels retention of the sheet tray in the container body and the tray locking device prevents the tray handler from canceling the retention of the sheet tray in the container body. The tray locking device regulates movement of the tray handler from the first position to the second position and moves the tray side stopper portion without moving the tray handler.
US09718627B2 Equipment and method for moving containers
The equipment and method for moving containers herein proposed consists in a new concept for moving containers in port terminals based on the stacking of containers from the bottom to the top. Such stacking occurs by using a lifting system specifically designed for such purpose and by supporting the containers stack on fixed elevated support at a determined height from the ground.
US09718626B2 Cleaning mechanism for use with a closed loop conveyor belt
A cleaning mechanism for use with a closed loop conveyor belt supported in continuous traversing fashion. The mechanism includes a housing for supporting the belt, a frame mounted to the housing proximate to the belt. A drive shaft extends between spaced apart locations of the frame and includes a pair of head sprockets adapted for supporting the belt at a selected location. A motor is engaged to an input end of the drive shaft. A counter weighted comb element is pivotally secured to the frame, an upper angled combed edge of the comb element arrayed in spatial non-contacting fashion with a traversing exterior of the belt for capturing elongated shaving debris suspended from the belt. A slave shaft extends between additional spaced apart location of the frame and which is rotated via a linkage with the drive shaft. Pluralities of bristles extend from the slave shaft in a cylindrical arrangement such that selected width extending portions of the bristles are arranged in successive contact with the belt upon rotation of the slave shaft in order to scrub the belt.
US09718620B2 Method and conveyor device for conveying bulk material
A method for conveying bulk goods and a device for carrying out the method. The conveying device includes a conveying channel and at least two conveying elements arranged loosely in the conveying channel. The conveying elements are mechanically driven in the conveying direction in a first section of the conveying channel, before bulk goods are fed into the conveying channel in a second section of the conveying channel. The bulk goods are conveyed by movement of the conveying elements along the conveying direction in a third section of the conveying channel, wherein in the third section of the conveying channel the first conveying element is pressed by the second conveying element and/or the bulk goods through the conveying channel in the conveying direction.
US09718617B2 Article transfer device and article transport facility
When an external force applied condition that an external force that causes a decrease in a rotational speed of an electric motor is applied to the contact member moved by the electric motor is satisfied while the actuation controller is performing a first control for continuously performing a process of providing the electric motor with a command value that depends on an error between an actual rotational speed of the electric motor and a first target rotational speed so as to cause the actual rotational speed to approach the first target rotational speed, then the actuation controller, subsequent to the first control, performs a second control for providing the electric motor with a command value that allows the actual rotational speed of the motor to be equal to, and to fall below, the first target rotational speed at a time of the external force applied condition becoming satisfied.
US09718607B2 Method for preparing a beverage from a capsule
The invention relates to a method for preparing a beverage through a capsule inserted in a beverage machine; the capsule comprising an enclosure containing one or more beverage ingredients, wherein a brewing fluid is introduced in the enclosure to brew the one or more beverage ingredients, characterized in that: a discharge wall is placed in association with the enclosure, wherein the discharge wall comprises a discharge member that restrains the brewed liquid from being discharged from the capsule or limits the liquid flow in case the pressure inside the enclosure is below a predetermined value, and the discharge member enables the delivery of the brewed liquid in case the pressure exceeds the predetermined value.
US09718593B2 Food packaging having an integrated spout
A food package container may have an integrated spout that can be used to dispense the contents of the container into a consumer's mouth. In some examples, the food package container includes an elongated, flexible-wall container body providing a tubular chamber holding a foodstuff. The container has a spout formed by a narrowing of the container body in a region extending upwardly away from the tubular chamber. For example, spout may be bound on one side by the container body and further bound on an opposite side and on a top edge by a seal joining opposed walls of the container body together. To open the spout, a weakened line may extend laterally across the container body adjacent the top edge of the spout and longitudinally across the container body adjacent the side of the spout bound by the seal.
US09718591B2 Fixing device for a power supply
A fixing device includes a fixing member and two fixing belts. The fixing member includes a plate, two fixing portions extending from opposite sides of the plate, and a locking portion located between the two fixing portions. The locking portion includes a locking belt extending from the plate and a connecting portion extending from the plate. The locking belt is locked to the connecting portion to form a locking loop. The two fixing belts are fixed to the two fixing portions.
US09718588B2 Container finish for metal lug closure
A container assembly including a container and a metallic closure. The container includes a polymeric body and a polymeric finish. The polymeric finish includes a plurality of threads. A lug lock is associated with each one of the plurality of threads. The metallic closure includes at least three metallic lugs configured to cooperate with the plurality of threads to couple the metallic closure to the polymeric finish.
US09718587B2 Synthetic resin cap, synthetic resin cap liner, closing device, and beverage-contained closing device
A synthetic resin cap comprises: a cap body having a top plate and a cylinder that is vertically lowered from the peripheral edge thereof; and a liner provided on a lower surface of the top plate. The liner has a flat plate; an inter-seal projection that contacts an inner-edge side of an opening end and has an outer-seal projection that contacts an outer-edge side of the opening end. An outer edge of the liner is spaced apart from the cylinder at an internal side and is formed to ensure a space between the outer edge and the cylinder. The outer diameter of the outer-seal projection is smaller than an outer diameter of the opening end.
US09718584B2 Multi-purpose container system
A multi-purpose container system includes a first container that has attached to it opposed pairs of legs. Each pair of legs may pivot from a first position to a second position rotated about 180 degrees. In the second position of the legs, the first container may be supported inverted with its opening facing downward. In that orientation, a recessed area is facing upward and has a periphery sized to receive a second container. The second container may be placed with its bottom edges received within the recessed area to support the second container. In that orientation, the second container is significantly elevated from a floor surface. Thus, tools and supplies may be stored within the second container elevated off the floor allowing a workman easy access to the interior of the second container to retrieve tools and supplies while performing work.
US09718583B2 Components packaging structure for pharmaceutical containers
A components (17) packaging structure for pharmaceutical containers, comprising at least one tray (10), which has at least one open side for introducing and extracting at least one supporting shelf (11) which is parallel to a bottom plane (14) of the tray (10) and which rests in correspondence of the inner walls (15) of the tray (10); said supporting shelf (11) has a spatially predetermined distribution of first seats or cavities (13) within which closing components and/or generic accessories of said containers, such as rubber caps (17), nuts (20) with crimping snap or other types of sealing nuts and/or caps, are placed, so that the vertical axis of each closure component is perpendicular to said bottom plane (14) of the tray (10), said structure thus constituting a guarantee of sterility and cleanliness of said closing components and/or generic accessories which are inserted in said seats or cavities (13).
US09718579B2 Metal pallet with assemblable components
An assemblable metal pallet having two plinths each provided with a cut-out and with a loading platform and a plurality of components obtained from a single piece of a basic metal profile having a symmetrical shape about the longitudinal central plane and provided with a longitudinal rib of rectangular cross-section and constant height extending from one and the same part with respect to a base plane, and with two outer lateral webs having their edge bent inwards and at least partly coplanar with the top of the rib, the components including a first component composed of a piece of basic profile bent to a C-shape with the aperture facing upwards, a second component composed of a piece of the same basic profile bent to an inverted U-shape, a further component formed from a piece of the same basic profile and constituting a crosspiece for connecting together the plinths.
US09718573B1 Container having convertible base
A convertible container assembly comprising a convertible container body. The container body includes angular series of conversion demarcations, defining an angular conversion section, and, optionally, at least one storage conversion demarcation, defining a storage conversion section. The angular conversion section includes a portion of a sidewall of the container body and a bottom portion of the container body. The angular conversion section toggles between an expanded configuration having a common horizontal upper rim and a compressed configuration creating a new container body support surface, angling the upper rim. The depth conversion section toggles between an expanded configuration as a container and a compressed configuration collapsing the container for storage. The conversion section can employ a single section or a series of sections, wherein the series of sections enable an accordion styled formation when collapsed.
US09718560B2 Exterior aircraft light unit and aircraft comprising the exterior aircraft light unit
An exterior aircraft light unit for emitting light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, different from the first wavelength is disclosed. The exterior aircraft light unit has an integrated optical structure, which in turn has a first light source configured to emit the light of the first wavelength, a second light source configured to emit the light of the second wavelength, the second light source being positioned adjacent to the first light source, and an optical element for shaping a light emission distribution of the integrated optical structure. The optical element is arranged with respect to the first light source and the second light source in such a way that it affects both the light of the first wavelength and the light of the second wavelength.
US09718557B2 Flight data tracker
When flights meet disaster in the mid-air, the cause of the mishap is unknown immediately. Teams are dispatched in difficult conditions to retrieve the flight data recorder (FDR) also known as black box. Until the black box is found, the exact cause of the crash cannot be determined. Sometimes it may take years to find the black box. For example, Air France flight 447 crashed into the Atlantic Ocean on Jun. 1, 2009. The cause of the accident remained unknown mainly because the black box was missing. It was found after almost two years in May 2011. The delay in finding the flight data creates risks for future flights if the crash occurred due to a manufacturing defect in the model of the plane. The ability to reach the data without the burden and need for a physical black box has obvious benefits. This idea has been discussed in the literature but no one has put forth a functional and effective method for the implementation of this concept, for example no one has determined an appropriate software scheme that would enable a universal system that doesn't need a black box or which can function in parallel with black box. In this project, a set of algorithms for reliable transmission of flight data in real-time to distributed ground servers is developed. The attached description presents an overall structure of the proposed scheme. We also describe the methods of communicating between at least one plane server, several data servers and at least one central server controlling various components of data transmission, and the algorithms that enable the communication of data. In addition, the proposed packet header formats, the packet type codes and fault tolerance features are described.
US09718554B2 Window mounted raft system
An inflatable life raft system for an aircraft includes a window coupled to a fuselage portion of the aircraft. A mechanism is used to selectively detach the window from the fuselage. An inflatable life raft is deployable to the exterior of the aircraft upon detachment of the window from the aircraft.
US09718553B2 Adaptive trans-critical CO2 cooling systems for aerospace applications
A cooling system for an aircraft includes a first cooling circuit having a first evaporator and a second evaporator, and a second cooling circuit having a third evaporator and a fourth evaporator. One of the first and second cooling circuits includes a first set of valves arranged to direct refrigerant through a first cooling sub-circuit, a second cooling sub-circuit, or both the first and second cooling sub-circuits based on ambient conditions. Two of the evaporators are installed on a first side of the aircraft, and the other two of the four evaporators are installed on a second side of the aircraft opposite the first side, and the first and second cooling circuits reject heat, via a heat exchanger, from their respective cooling circuit to air passing into an engine of the aircraft.
US09718543B2 Guided lift system
Systems and methods provide for a guided lift system utilized for maneuvering payloads. According to aspects of the disclosure, a guided lift system may include a lift unit attached to a payload, at least two control tethers attached to the lift unit, and at least two control units fixed in positions and capable of adjusting the lengths of the control tethers. Coordinated length adjustments of the control tethers pulls the lift unit and payload in a desired direction to a desired delivery location.
US09718541B2 Swashplate apparatus
A swashplate apparatus is provided and includes a first swashplate including outer and inner bodies and an intermediate portion defining a major groove between the outer and inner bodies, a second swashplate disposable in the major groove to be rotatable relative to the first swashplate, the second swashplate including an interior facing surface radially separated from the inner body to define a minor groove and defining a recess in which the rod end is disposable, a connector disposable in the recess to pivotably couple the rod end to the second swashplate and a plate element disposable in the minor groove and affixable to the interior facing surface of the second swashplate and the connector.
US09718539B2 Aircraft landing gear
An aircraft landing gear comprising an axle (3) intended to receive a wheel (4) comprising a rim (6) mounted to rotate on the axle (3) by means of at least one rolling bearing (8). The rolling bearing (8) comprises an inner ring (11) mounted around the axle (3) and an outer ring (12) rotationally secured to the rim (6) of the wheel (4). The landing gear further comprising a measurement device (21) intended to perform measurements of at least one operating parameter of the landing gear. The measurement device (21) is incorporated in the rolling bearing (8) by being secured to one of the inner or outer rings of the rolling bearing (8).
US09718537B2 System and method for piloting an aircraft
A piloting system having a control stick configured to control the aircraft with respect to its three piloting axes, namely the pitch axis, the roll axis and the yaw axis, and an auxiliary control device configured to automatically control the aircraft during one of the following phases: a landing phase and a takeoff phase. The auxiliary control device automatically controls the aircraft with respect to at least one of the piloting axes, and the other piloting axes, which are not controlled automatically by the auxiliary control device, then being controlled manually by a pilot with the aid of the control stick.
US09718531B2 Aircraft drainage system
A drain for expelling fluids from an interior of an aircraft to an exterior of the aircraft, the drain including a drain tube disposed at the interior of the aircraft having a first end disposed in fluid communication with an aircraft equipment to be drained and an opposite second end, wherein the drain tube terminates at the second end at a location within the interior of the aircraft, a seal which extends between the second end of the drain tube and an outer skin of the aircraft, delimiting a drainage cavity, and a drainage pathway extending from the cavity through the outer skin to the exterior of the aircraft.
US09718530B2 Marine vessel display system
A marine vessel electronic display system includes a first display station that can include a mode selector for permitting selection of a first mode of operation and a processing system causing displays in the first display station to present information related to the selected first mode of operation. The marine vessel electronic display system may include a second display station that can include a mode selector for permitting a user to select a second mode of operation different from the first mode of operation and a processing system causing a display in the second display station to present information related to the selected second mode of operation.
US09718528B2 Motorized watercraft system with interchangeable motor module
A personal watercraft body comprises a recess configured to receive similarly shaped cassettes. A first cassette may be motorized to propel the body relative to a body of water. A second cassette may be non-motorized and may include a storage space therein for storing personal items. An insert may be disposed between the cassettes and the recess to orient and fit the cassettes within the body.
US09718520B2 Loading arrangement for ships
The invention relates to a loading arrangement for ships including a plurality of bales, in particular packaged garbage round bales that are stacked in a hull and that can be loaded and/or unloaded by a crane and/or a transfer device, preferably with gripper tongs for gripping two bales at once in each case. For the gentle unloading and secure gripping of the bales, according to the invention the bales are stacked in multiple transverse rows (5), in particular dual rows, between which in each case a bale stack (6) is arranged that is oriented in a right angled horizontally twisted manner.
US09718519B2 Holding device for holding a ship's boat or other additional component to be carried along, and use of said device
The invention relates to a holding device for fastening, to the stem area of a ship, a ship's boat or an additional component to be detachably carried along, which device comprises a plurality of arms which have a hook-shaped coupling and are rigidly or detachably connected to the ship's boat or additional component, and a plurality of receiving portions which comprise at least one coupling shaft and are mounted on the stem or on an additional part of the ship permanently installed on the stem in such a way that the arms are hooked into the coupling shaft by the hook-shaped coupling and by a rotation of the arm or the receiving portion about the coupling shaft are locked in place when a defined angle of rotation is reached.
US09718513B2 Multi-link vehicle suspension system
A multi-link suspension includes a frame member, a first member pivotably coupled at a first end to the frame member, and a second member pivotably coupled at a first end to a second end of the first member. A dampener physically couples between the first member and the second member. The dampener limits the rotation of the second member about the second end of the first member to a defined arc. The first member includes a horizontal upper surface to which an electric traction motor providing a shaft output attaches. A power transmission system, such as a flexible belt, couples the shaft output provided by the electric traction motor to a drive hub rotatably attached to a second end of the second member.
US09718510B2 Water bottle and cage system for bicycles
An apparatus is provided to reduce the aerodynamic drag of bicycle frame mounted water bottle and cage systems. Furthermore, the apparatus also improves the safety of bicycle water bottle and cage systems. In an exemplary embodiment, a cage and bottle are provided. The cage is formed with a plurality of hemispheres which can spread apart in order to receive bottles of various diameters. The bottle is longer and thinner than bottles in use today and is formed with dimples on the entirety of its surface. The cap provided with the bottle has minimal threading and is formed with breaks in the threading to allow for the top to be ejected when dropped.
US09718508B2 Method for producing and installing a front end of a motor vehicle
A method for producing and installing a front end of a motor vehicle, including an arrangement including a structural front surface forming a structure that supports engine-cooling elements, to which structure a front protective molding and the projector headlamps are attached. In addition, the vehicle includes a hood hinged on hinge brackets secured to the vehicle structure, and side wings connected to the front pillar lining of the vehicle structure. The method includes adjusting the structural front surface in the transverse direction to a transverse position determined relative to the hood, placing a gauge device between the hood and the front structural face.
US09718491B2 Steering apparatus for vehicle
A steering apparatus for a vehicle may include: a pinion gear rotated in connection with a steering wheel; a rack housing for housing a rack bar which is rotated while engaged with the pinion gear; and a mounting member coupled to the rack housing, wherein the mounting member may be coupled to a subframe while the shape thereof is changed according to the position or shape of the subframe.
US09718485B2 Apparatus for warning of exceeding speed limit in railway vehicles
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for warning of exceeding speed limit in railway vehicles, wherein a train speed is estimated after a predetermined time, a remaining time is calculated until a train reaches a speed limit based on the estimated speed, and when the calculated time is smaller than a preset reference value, a warning signal is generated. Thus, an adequate warning can be given to cater to a train operation situation because a TTSLC indicator is used that notifies when an emergency braking will be activated by exceeding a set speed limit value after a certain time lapses, resultantly increasing the train operation frequency and the availability of trains.
US09718483B2 Auto-rack railroad car vehicle restraint apparatus
A vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car which includes an active chock and an anchor chock configured to co-act to secure a vehicle in the auto-rack railroad car. In various embodiments, each chock has a chock body including a substantially diamond shaped elongated tube which includes four integrally connected elongated walls. In various embodiments, for each chock, various components of that chock extend substantially along longitudinal axis that lie in the same or substantially the same vertical plane as the apex and trough of the substantially diamond shaped elongated tube of the chock body. The active and anchor chocks: (a) have a lower height than known commercially available vehicle restraints; (b) have a smaller width than known commercially available vehicle restraints; (c) position the strap and the torque tube closer to the tire of the wheel than any known commercially available vehicle restraints; (d) take up a smaller area of each safe zone adjacent to the wheel than known commercially available vehicle restraints; (e) provide a greater strength to size ratio than known commercially available vehicle restraints; and (f) are easy to operate, install, and remove.
US09718466B2 Driving path planning apparatus and method for autonomous vehicle
A driving path planning apparatus for an autonomous vehicle includes a driving information obtainer to obtain crossroad information, current velocity, and velocity setting of the vehicle. A global path planner plans a base frame, and an environment recognizer recognizes obstacle on a path and lane information of the vehicle. The apparatus also includes a velocity profile generator to generate a velocity profile for the vehicle, using current velocity and velocity setting, a candidate path planner to plan candidate paths for the vehicle, using velocity profile and base frame, and a path selector to check whether or not the candidate paths have collision risks and select one candidate path of the candidate paths as a driving path for the autonomous vehicle.
US09718464B2 Vehicle configured to secure oil during motor failure
Even when a motor fails in an EV travel mode in which a clutch is disengaged, an amount of hydraulic oil that is supplied to the clutch can be secured by reducing a transmission leaked amount. Accordingly, the clutch can be engaged, and an oil pump can be driven by power of an engine. Thus, an evacuation travel by the engine is allowed when the motor fails in the EV travel mode.
US09718462B2 Hybrid vehicle transmission shift management system and method
A vehicle is provided with a powertrain including a battery-powered electric motor, an internal combustion engine, a transmission, and a powertrain controller. The controller is programmed to permit an upshift of a transmission gear ratio while a powertrain torque demand is less than a forecasted available powertrain torque sustainable over a predetermined upcoming duration of time. The controller is also programmed to inhibit an upshift while the torque demand exceeds the forecasted available powertrain torque to reduce successive gear shifts. The controller may be further programmed to, in response to battery a state of charge being less than a threshold, reduce the forecasted available powertrain torque by an amount sufficient to provide a recharge to a battery. The controller may be further still programmed to reduce the forecasted available powertrain torque by an amount sufficient to restart the engine while the powertrain is operating in an engine-off traction mode.
US09718459B2 Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle includes a power transmission unit configured to switch a power transmission path between an engine, a first MG, and a second MG. The control device is configured such that, during execution of regenerative braking using at least one of the first MG and the second MG while the engine is stopped, when a state amount indicating a state related to a battery has reached a determination threshold, the control device executes a standby operation in which the state of the power transmission unit is brought from a current state closer to a state that enables an engine brake operation in which the engine in a fuel-cut state is rotated using an external force to generate a loss.
US09718452B2 Brake monitoring system and method
A brake monitoring system and method determine one or more characteristics of a conduit in a first air brake system of a first vehicle system, compare the one or more characteristics of the first air brake system with one or more designated waveform signatures, and distinguish between communication of a brake application signal that is propagated along the vehicle system through the conduit as a decrease in pressure in the conduit and a change in the pressure in the conduit that is not representative of the communication of the brake application signal based on comparing the one or more characteristics with the one or more designated waveform signatures.
US09718448B2 Pedal simulator
A pedal simulator of the present invention is disclosed. According to an aspect of the present invention, the pedal simulator, which is connected with a master cylinder and receives pedal pressure of the driver and configured to provide a sense of a pedal for a driver, includes: a simulation chamber having one end connected with the master cylinder and the other end provided in the simulator block closed by a damping housing, and configured to store oil; a check valve pressurized by the piston, provided in the simulation chamber to be slideable, and slid; an orifice formed in the simulator block and allowing a flow of oil in the simulation chamber by the sliding check valve; and an accumulator configured to store the oil discharged through the orifice.
US09718444B2 Wiper blade adapter, in particular for a motor vehicle wiper device
The invention relates to a wiper blade adapter, in particular for a motor vehicle wiper device, comprising a coupling unit (10) which comprises at least one first coupling element (12) and a second coupling element (14) which are provided for coupling at least two different types of wiper arm adapters (100, 110, 120, 130), and housing means (62) which are provided for delimiting at least one part of one of the coupling elements (12). According to the invention, said housing means (62) and the coupling element (12) are embodied such that they form one piece.
US09718438B2 Seat belt device
A seat belt device includes a belt reel around which webbing is wound, a winding spring that rotationally biases the belt reel in a winding direction, a motor that is configured to transmit a driving force to the belt reel, a clutch that is interposed between the motor and the belt reel, and which performs connection/disconnection of the motor and the belt reel, a webbing speed detection unit that detects the winding speed of the webbing, a fastened/released state detection unit that detects a fastened state and a released state of the webbing, a basic winding control unit that drives the motor in the winding direction in a rotating manner and puts the clutch into a connected state, and a speed increase correction unit that increases the speed of the motor with respect to the speed of the motor obtained by the control of the basic winding control unit.
US09718437B2 Winder, a torsion bar, a reel, end covers and a safety belt assembly used for a force limiting safety belt
The present invention provides a winder used for a force limiting safety belt, comprising: a winder frame, a reel and a torsion bar. wherein, the winder frame comprises two opposite sidewalls, the corresponding positions of the two sidewalls having circular openings provided, the circular openings having internal toothed segments; the reel comprising a spindle through hole provided along the central axis of the spindle, two detachable end covers provided respectively on the two ends of the spindle, the end covers having external teeth provided along the periphery of the end covers; the torsion bar is divided into two segments in axial direction which are connected to each other by adjoining ends; in a free state, the reel is able to rotate and float provided within the winder frame, two end covers being provided in the circular through opening on the two sidewalls of the winder frame.
US09718435B2 Buckle device
A buckle device includes a buckle body that retains a tongue through which a webbing worn across an occupant is inserted; a fixing plate that is fixed to a vehicle seat and that includes a coupling webbing insertion hole; and a coupling webbing that is formed in a belt shape and that couples the buckle body and the fixing plate together. The buckle device further includes a boot that covers the coupling webbing. Moreover, the boot is provided with an engagement protrusion portion that engages with the coupling webbing insertion hole so as to suppress rattling of the boot against the fixing plate.
US09718433B2 Apparatus for operating a cold-gas generator for a vehicle
A cold gas generator for a vehicle includes a container for storing gas, and an outlet opening closed by a closure element. The apparatus for operating the cold gas generator has a first terminal for a first connecting line for providing a first operating voltage potential, and a second terminal for a second connecting line for providing a second operating voltage potential. The apparatus also has an electrical coil to actuate, in response to a coil current, a closure device for controlling a gas flow through the outlet opening, the coil being connected between the first terminal and the second terminal. The apparatus also has a firing device to open the closure element in response to a firing current, the firing device being connected between the first terminal and the second terminal.
US09718423B2 Vehicle bumper structure including a pedestrian collision detection sensor
A vehicle bumper structure including: bumper reinforcement at a rear of a bumper cover; an absorber in front of the bumper reinforcement; and a pedestrian collision detection sensor including a pressure tube between the bumper reinforcement and the absorber, wherein a position of a width direction outer end of the bumper reinforcement is set between a first normal line and a second normal line, where a front-rear reference line passes through a width direction outer end of a front hood or apron upper member and extends along a front-rear direction, the first normal line passes through an intersection point between the front-rear reference line and the bumper cover and extends along the direction of a normal line with respect to the width direction outer end of the bumper reinforcement, and the second normal line is offset by 100 mm to a width direction inner side of the first normal line.
US09718416B2 Automotive headliner locator tab for service repair
A replacement locator tab is provided for a headliner. That replacement locator tab includes a locator portion and a headliner mounting portion. An adhesive film is provided on a face of the headliner mounting portion. A removable protective film overlies the adhesive film. A headliner incorporating the locator tab is also disclosed as is a method of repairing a headliner in a motor vehicle.
US09718414B2 Hidden device with translating cover
An assembly for deploying a device from a cavity. The assembly includes a translatable cover and a mounting surface defining an opening sized to receive the translatable cover thereover. The device is received in the cavity beneath the mounting surface and is actuatable between a first device position and a second device position. A plurality of linkages are positioned within the cavity. At least one of the plurality of linkages is coupled to a power source for actuating the plurality of linkages and at least one of the plurality of linkages is coupled to the translatable cover and to the device. Thus, when the power source actuates the plurality of linkages, the translatable cover is translated relative to the mounting surface from a first cover position to a second cover position and the device is actuated from the first device position to the second device position.
US09718412B2 Adjustable portable device holder
Adjustable portable device holder systems and methods are herein disclosed. According to one embodiment, an adjustable portable device holder includes an adjustable clamping element and a rotatable mounting element attached to the adjustable clamping element for removably securing a portable device to the adjustable portable device holder.
US09718397B2 User-configurable indication device for use with an on-demand transport service
A system and method for configuring an indication device is described. An on-demand service system arranges a transport service for a user to be provided by a driver. The system determines whether the user has specified an output configuration for an indication device in an account of the user. In response to determining that the user has specified an output configuration for the indication device, the system identifies data corresponding to the output configuration and transmits the data to a driver device of the driver to enable the driver device to control the indication device of the driver based on the data.
US09718393B2 Vehicle lamp with a conductive reflector and a grounding connection terminal
In a vehicle lamp, light emitting diodes that emit light are disposed on an inner side of a transparent surface cover. A conductive reflector that reflects the light emitted from the light emitting diodes toward the surface cover is provided between the light emitting diodes and the surface cover. The reflector is disposed so as to be in proximity to the light emitting diodes. A grounding connection terminal is provided on the reflector. The grounding connection terminal is connected to a vehicle body.
US09718379B2 Bracket for a bodyshell structure of a motor vehicle
A bracket (2) is provided for fastening to a bodyshell structure (6) of a motor vehicle. The bracket (2) is a bar that is bent to define first and second end sections (10, 28), first and second arcuate sections (11, 19) and a central section (18). The first end section (10) merges into the first arcuate section (11), the first arcuate section (11) merges into the central section (18), the central section (18) merges into the second arcuate section (19), and the second arcuate section (19) merges into a second end section (28). The end sections (10, 28) are parallel, and the central section (18) is perpendicular to the end sections (10, 28). Each arcuate section (11, 19) has plural partially arcuate sections (12, 14, 16, 20, 22, 24, 26), including one that is parallel to the central section (18).
US09718378B2 Vehicle seat
A method is provided for controlling a longitudinally adjustable and rotatable vehicle seat with upper rails guided in lower rails, motors for respectively driving the upper rails and a seat shell. An aligned displacement of the upper rails relative to the lower rails displaces the seat shell in a straight line. A displacement of the first upper rail relative to the second upper rail rotates the seat shell about a vertical axis. An initial position is stored. The seat shell is moved in a straight line out of the initial position into a starting position. From the starting position the seat shell is rotated by a first angle into an intermediate position. The seat shell is moved in a straight line in the direction of travel into a first central position. The seat shell is rotated by a second angle into an end position.
US09718371B2 Recharging of battery electric vehicles on a smart electrical grid system
A computer program product for recharging a number of battery electric vehicles includes computer usable program code. The computer usable program code is configured to receive, from the number of battery electric vehicles that are to recharge at a number of recharging stations, usage data. The usage data includes a current charge level, a current location, and a planned itinerary that includes a destination. The computer usable program code is configured to determine anticipated electrical loads in the number of sectors of the electrical grid system based on the usage data of the number of battery electric vehicles. The computer usable program code is configured to redistribute the electrical supply on the electrical grid system to at least one recharging station of the number of recharging stations based on the anticipated electrical loads, prior to actual usage defined by the usage data by the number of battery electrical vehicles.
US09718370B2 Methods and systems for electric vehicle (EV) charging and cloud remote access and user notifications
Systems and methods for charging an electric battery of a vehicle are provided. The vehicle includes a battery for powering an electric motor of the vehicle. A controller of the vehicle is provided to interface with a battery and to enable control of charging of the battery. The vehicle includes a communications interface for enabling wireless communication with a server, and the server is configured to manage a plurality of user accounts for users. The server is one of a plurality of servers, and the servers providing access to cloud services regarding vehicle use and metrics.
US09718360B2 Vehicle, display device for vehicle, and method for controlling the vehicle display device
A vehicle, a vehicle display device, and a method for controlling the vehicle display device are disclosed. The vehicle display device includes a display unit and a controller. The display unit displays a wide screen that is divided into a main display region and an auxiliary display region. The controller displays a first visual interface on the main display region, decides the second visual interface for performing a process different from that of the first visual interface according to the first visual interface, and displays auxiliary information related to the second visual interface on the auxiliary display region.
US09718357B2 Vehicular accessory system
A vehicular accessory system includes an attachment element adhered at an interior surface of a windshield of a vehicle and an accessory assembly attached to the attachment element. The accessory assembly includes circuitry disposed in the housing, the circuitry including a video camera. The video camera, when the accessory assembly is attached to the attachment element, has a field of view into the interior of the vehicle that encompasses the head of a potential driver of the vehicle. The video camera captures an image of the face of the potential driver and, responsive to image processing by image recognition software of the vehicular accessory system, the vehicular accessory system determines that the potential driver is an authorized driver who is authorized to operate the vehicle and, responsive to this determination, enables the ignition system to allow the motor of the vehicle be started.
US09718352B2 System and method for material transfer and transport
An embodiment of the present invention relates to a system. The system includes a first vehicle, a second vehicle, and an interface between the first vehicle and the second vehicle. The interface is configured to enable the transfer of mechanical power from the second vehicle to the first vehicle when the first vehicle and the second vehicle are stationary.
US09718351B2 Utility vehicle
A utility vehicle includes a plurality of ground-engaging members, a frame supported by the ground-engaging members, and a powertrain assembly. The powertrain assembly includes an engine, a shiftable transmission, a continuously variable transmission, and a charger. Additionally, the utility vehicle may include a cooling assembly fluidly coupled to at least the engine and the charger.
US09718347B2 Fueling device
A fueling device comprises a passage-forming member, an opening-forming member configured to form an opening, a filler port open-close mechanism that includes an open-close member configured to open and close the opening, a screwing mechanism that includes an outer circumferential threaded section and an inner circumferential threaded section and a gasket placed between the opening-forming member and the passage-forming member to seal between the opening-forming member and the passage-forming member, wherein the outer circumferential threaded section is provided on outer periphery of the passage-forming member, the inner circumferential threaded section is provided on the opening-forming member and screwed to the outer circumferential threaded section, the opening-forming member is attached to the passage-forming member by screwing the outer circumferential threaded section to the inner circumferential threaded section.
US09718344B2 Hybrid vehicle powertrain
A hybrid vehicle powertrain includes an internal combustion engine, an electric traction motor and a transmission. A first flexible coupling drivingly connects the internal combustion engine to the transmission, and a second flexible coupling drivingly connects the electric traction motor to the transmission.
US09718339B2 Molded cover
A molded pocket of a cover for a transportation vehicle is provided including a body having a complementary upper portion and lower portion configured to define a cavity. A feature of the transportation vehicle is received within the cavity. The lower portion of the body is affixed to the cover. A coupling mechanism is configured to selectively couple at least a part of the upper portion and the lower portion of the body to transform the body between an open position and a closed position.
US09718333B2 Water discharge structure for sunroof device
Provided is a water discharge structure for a sunroof device, the water discharge structure being capable of suitably preventing rainwater, etc. from penetrating a stationary roof. A water discharge structure for a sunroof device is configured so as to comprise: a panel body for closing an opening formed in the stationary roof of a vehicle; frame members arranged along edges of the stationary roof and provided with water discharge grooves; brackets mounted to the frame members and supporting the panel body; and water discharge guide plates disposed between the panel body and the brackets and conducting rainwater etc., which have entered along the seal surfaces between the panel body and the edges of the stationary roof, to the water discharge grooves.
US09718331B2 Vehicle door structure
Provided is a vehicle door structure that enables manufacturing cost reduction and weight reduction. A vehicle door structure 1 includes a lock mechanism 40. The lock mechanism 40 locks sliding of a slide door 6 in a fully closed position in which the slide door 6 closes a door opening portion 4 and in a fully open position in which the slide door 6 fully opens the door opening portion 4. The lock mechanism 40 includes the portion to be locked 50 provided to the guided body 18 and the locking portions 60 and 70 provided to the slide rail 17. The portion to be locked 50 protrudes toward the locking portions 60 and 70 and is locked by the locking portions 60 and 70 in the fully closed position or the fully open position.
US09718326B2 Device and method for heating and cooling storage containers
A device comprising a first storage compartment, an inlet pipe connected to the storage compartment, the inlet pipe adapted to deliver conditioned air from a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of a motor vehicle to the storage compartment, a first outlet pipe connected to the storage compartment for directing the conditioned air back into the HVAC system, a second storage compartment, and a second outlet pipe connected to the second storage compartment for directing the conditioned air into the second storage compartment.
US09718324B2 Damper control device
A damper control device includes a speed conversion unit configured to convert a damper speed to a control damper speed, and if the damper is accelerating, the damper speed is converted so that signs of the control damper speed and the damper speed accord with each other and an absolute value of the control damper speed becomes an absolute value of the damper speed or more, and if the damper is decelerating, the damper speed is converted so that the signs of the control damper speed and the damper speed accord with each other and the absolute value of the control damper speed becomes the absolute value of the damper speed or less, and a damping force of the damper is controlled by using the control damper speed.
US09718318B2 Tire chain tool
An apparatus for applying chains to a tire comprises an elongate member having c-shaped opening at a first end thereof and a handle at a second end thereof. The apparatus further includes a slot therethrough adapted to support a key rotatable between a first position contained within the slot and a second position extending perpendicularly from the slot. A method of applying tire chains comprises comprising engaging a link of a tire chain within the c-shaped opening and drawing the link of the tire chain into engagement with a binder located at a distal end of the tire chain. The method further comprises locating the binder within the c-shaped opening, rotating the binder into a closed position with the elongate member, rotating a key out of the slot, engaging the key within a lock in the tire chain and locking the tire chain with the key.
US09718316B2 Universal monitoring device for vehicle tires
The invention relates to a universal monitoring device for monitoring one or several state variables of a vehicle tire, comprising at least one sensor for detecting a state variable of the vehicle tire; at least one transmitter for transmitting a wireless coded signal depending on the detected state variable; at least one control apparatus which is in connection with the sensor and the transmitter in order to control the detection of the state variable and the transmission of the signal, wherein a memory is assigned to the control apparatus or is integrated therein, in which a computer program which is executable by the control apparatus is stored, which controls the detection of the state variable and the transmission of the signal. The invention is characterized in that the computer program comprises a plurality of functional modules which can be activated individually or in groups and which are designed to change the content and the coding of the signal to be transmitted depending on their activation or deactivation, a receiver is assigned to the control apparatus for receiving a parameter set, the memory is designed for storing the parameter set received by the receiver, and the computer program is designed to activate and deactivate its functional modules depending on parameters of the stored parameter set, and to determine the change in the content and the coding of the signal to be transmitted by the functional modules depending on parameters of the stored parameter set.
US09718312B2 Tire comprising a tread formed by multiple elastomer blends
A tire with a radial carcass reinforcement, having a crown reinforcement, itself capped radially by a tread connected to two beads by two sidewalls, the tread having at least two layers of blended elastomeric compounds that are radially superposed and have a voids ratio that is lower in the central part than at the axially outer parts. A first layer of blended elastomeric compounds of the tread is made up of a first blended elastomeric compound forming a part extending at least into the region of the equatorial plane and of at least two axially outer parts formed of a second blended elastomeric compound, the first blended elastomeric compound having a macro dispersion Z-value higher than 65 and a maximum tan(δ) value, denoted tan(δ)max, lower than 0.120, and the complex dynamic shear modulus G* 1% at 100° C. of the second blended elastomeric compound having a value at least 10% higher than that of the complex dynamic shear modulus G* 1% at 100° C. of the first blended elastomeric compound.
US09718311B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire includes: an inner liner having a thermoplastic resin film, a carcass, and an adhesive layer disposed between the inner liner and the carcass, in which the dynamic storage modulus E's at −20° C. of the thermoplastic resin film, the adhesive layer, and the carcass are defined as E1′, E2′, and E3′, respectively, and the relationship among E1′, E2′, and E3′ satisfies E1′>E2′>E3′. This pneumatic tire has excellent anti-crack property in a low-temperature environment of the inner liner.
US09718309B2 Tire comprising a composition comprising a zinc diacrylate derivative and a peroxide
The invention relates to a tire provided with a tread, said tread comprising a rubber composition based on at least one diene elastomer, a zinc diacrylate derivative in the form of a zinc salt in which R1, R2 and R3 independently represent a hydrogen atom or a C1-C7 hydrocarbon group selected from linear, branched or cyclic alkyl groups, aralkyl groups, alkylaryl groups and aryl groups, which are optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms, R2 and R3 being able to form together a non-aromatic ring, and a peroxide. The contents of zinc diacrylate derivative and peroxide are such that the ratio of the peroxide content to the zinc diacrylate derivative content is less than or equal to 0.09, said composition comprising no reinforcing filler or comprising less than 50 phr thereof, the ratio of the filler content to the zinc diacrylate derivative content being less than or equal to 2.
US09718307B2 Tire handler
Disclosed herein is a tire handler for the movement and manipulation of tires and wheels for large vehicles. The tire handler is lifted by a crane or similar hoisting equipment. The tire handler comprises improvements including an automatic leveling system, power adjustable tire control and support arms, and wireless remote operation of powered functions.
US09718303B2 Processed slabs, and systems and methods related thereto
This document describes systems and processes for forming improved synthetic molded slabs suitable for use in living or working spaces (e.g., along a countertop, table, floor, or the like).
US09718299B2 Flippable board method and system
Disclosed are a method and/or a system of a flippable board. In one aspect, the flippable board includes a track capable of attaching to a surface, a first hinge component and a second hinge component attached to the track, and a frame attached to the first and second hinge components along a first vertical end of the frame. The first and second hinge components allow the frame to rotate between an open position and a closed position. The flippable board further includes an adjustable left magnet and adjustable right magnet attached to the first and/or second hinge component, and at least one metal sleeve attached to a second vertical end of the frame capable of connecting to the left magnet and/or right magnet of a secondary flippable board and/or an adjustable surface magnet in order to secure the flippable board in the open and/or closed position.
US09718295B2 Image transfer material and polymer composition
Provided is an image transfer material, comprising a support, optionally at least one barrier layer, a melt transfer layer, and an image receiving layer. Also provided is a process for preparing the image transfer material. Further provided is a heat transfer process using the disclosed material. In the heat transfer process, after imaging, the image receiving layer and melt transfer layer are peeled away from the optionally barrier-coated support material and placed, preferably image side up, on top of a receptor element. A non-stick sheet is then optionally placed over the imaged peeled material and heat is applied to the top of the optional non stick sheet. The melt transfer layer then melts and adheres the image to the receptor element. A composition comprising: at least one self-crosslinking polymer, and at least one dye retention aid.
US09718293B1 Embossing seal
An embossing seal has a base, a die assembly, a driven shaft assembly, a restoring member, and a pressing handle. The die assembly is mounted in the base. The driven shaft assembly is movably mounted in the base, abuts the die assembly, and has a lower shaft unit, an upper shaft unit, and a cushion member, so as to perform two embossing steps. The restoring member is mounted in the base and abuts the base and the upper shaft unit. The pressing handle is pivotally coupled to the base and abuts the upper shaft unit. With the upper shaft unit driving the lower shaft unit via the cushion member, discomfort to the wrist and elbow of a user can be reduced.
US09718291B2 Printer carriage support structure
A printing assembly comprises a medium support surface, a guide assembly and a carriage support structure for moveably supporting a print head carriage on the guide assembly. The guide assembly is arranged to move the print head carriage in a carriage plane, which carriage plane is parallel to the medium support surface. The guide assembly comprises a guide beam; and a guide rail arranged on the guide beam. The guide rail and the guide beam each extend in a scanning direction. The printer carriage support structure comprises a guide frame arranged on the guide rail and the guide frame is moveable in the scanning direction and extends in the scanning direction between a first support position and a second support position. The guide frame is supported on the guide rail at said first support position and at said second support position. A carriage frame is moveably supported on the guide rail through the guide frame. The carriage frame is coupled to the guide frame such that the carriage frame is moveable relative to the guide frame in the carriage plane.
US09718284B2 Sheet ejecting device
A sheet ejecting device having a first ejection tray, a first ejection roller to eject the sheet to the first ejection tray, a second ejection tray in a position above the first ejection tray, a second ejection roller to eject the sheet to the second ejection tray, and a first guide and a second guide disposed in widthwise end portions on a lower surface of the second ejection tray, is provided. The first guide and the second guide are configured to contact widthwise end portions of the sheet ejected by the first ejection roller and guide the widthwise end portions of the sheet downward.
US09718277B2 Tank, tank unit and liquid ejection system
To solve the problem of a liquid supply unit of the related art in that liquid supply may become difficult.The invention provides a tank capable of supplying a liquid to a liquid ejection head, the tank including: a liquid containing portion capable of containing the liquid; and an atmospheric air introducing portion constituting an atmospheric air flow channel capable of introducing atmospheric air into the liquid containing portion, wherein the atmospheric air introducing portion includes a buffer chamber capable of containing the atmospheric air, a liquid retaining member is housed in the buffer chamber, and in a state in which the liquid retaining member is housed in the buffer chamber, a gap that allows the atmospheric air to move between a first communication port and a second communication port of the atmospheric air flow channel is provided within the buffer chamber.
US09718268B1 Ink printing system comprising groups of inks, each group having a unique ink base composition
A printing system comprising two or more groups of ink, wherein each group of ink includes ink based upon a unique formulation. This enables a user to select an ink type for printing an image without requiring extra printers or replacement of printing components. Additionally, the user can print a single image using inks of two different base formulations. The system comprises at least two groups of ink storage containers, each group containing a group of ink volumes, each group of ink volumes having a unique ink base formulation. The system further comprises at least two groups of ink formulation specific print heads, each group being associated with the compatible ink formulation. A controller enables the user to selectively print an image using ink having one or more ink base formulations. The system can use any configuration of ink storage configurations and print heads arrangements.
US09718243B2 Method of manufacturing a rigid repair wrap including a laminate disposed laterally within the repair wrap
A repair wrap for repairing or strengthening an item. The repair wrap includes a fabric, where the fabric includes one or more fibers. The repair wrap also includes a film disposed laterally within the fabric. The repair wrap further includes a hardening material disposed in the fabric. The fabric is configured to be wrapped around a portion of an item. Curing the hardening material is configured to form a shell about the portion of the item.
US09718240B2 Overmolding extruded profiles
An exemplary method of, for instance, forming a baffle or reinforcer includes extruding an expandable material to have a particular cross-sectional profile, inserting the expandable material into a molding tool, cutting the expandable material to a predetermined length within the molding tool, and overmolding a carrier material onto a portion of the expandable material within the molding tool.
US09718227B2 Device and method for producing injection-molded parts which comprise different components
The invention relates to a device and a method for producing plastic moldings from at least two different sub-elements (15; 16) that includes first and second mold halves (3) and a rotatable center block (6) with center and third mold halves (8; 17) interposed therebetween. The center and third mold halves define first and second parting planes with the first and second mold halves. First cavities are defined in the first parting plane, into which a first plastic component is introduced to produce preforms (12). When the first parting plane is opened, the performs (12) remain on the center mold halves (8) and are brought into the second parting plane when the center block (6) is rotated, in which second parting plane second cavities are at least partially defined by the preforms (12), into which a second plastic component is introduced and first sub-elements (15) are produced. Second sub-elements (16) are produced in the additional cavities. When the second parting plane is opened, the sub-elements (15; 16) remain on the center and third mold halves (8) and are rotated into a lateral assembly position when the center block (6) is rotated.
US09718223B2 Device for applying a foaming reaction mixture
The invention relates to a device (100) for applying a foaming reaction mixture (600) onto a top layer (500), in particular for producing a composite element, comprising at least two casting rakes (200, 260), each of which comprises a tubular hollow body (210), said hollow body (210) extending along a central axis (250) and having at least two outlet openings (220) for discharging the foaming reaction mixture (600). The casting rakes (200, 260) and the top layer (500) can be moved relative to one another in a longitudinal axis (510), and the casting rakes (200, 260) are arranged on a receiving element (700). According to the invention, each arrangement of the casting rakes (200, 260) on the receiving element (700) has a joint (805), by means of which the casting rakes (200, 260) are movably arranged on the receiving element (700) and can be oriented at an angle (400, 410) of <=80 DEG relative to the longitudinal axis (510) of the movement.
US09718219B2 Temperature control device for a shaping tool and method of controlling same
A method of temperature control of a shaping tool or components of a shaping working machine is performed by a temperature control medium disposed in at least one temperature control branch of a temperature control system. A previously ascertained relationship between geometrical data of the at least one temperature control branch and through-flow amounts of the temperature control medium is provided, and a reference through-flow amount is set by the previously ascertained relationship for the geometrical data of the at least one temperature control branch.
US09718217B2 Kneading apparatus, method for producing thermoplastic resin molded product, and foam injection molding method
A kneading apparatus for a thermoplastic resin, includes: a plasticizing cylinder which has a high pressure kneading zone and a pressure reduction zone; a screw in the plasticizing cylinder; a downstream side seal mechanism which shuts off communication between the high pressure kneading zone and the pressure reduction zone; and a pressure reduction zone pressure adjusting mechanism which is connected to the pressure reduction zone and which controls a pressure of the pressure reduction zone so that the pressure is not less than an atmospheric pressure and the pressure is not more than a maximum pressure of the high pressure kneading zone that is achieved when kneading a molten resin with a pressurized fluid, when the downstream side seal mechanism shuts off the communication between the high pressure kneading zone and the pressure reduction zone.
US09718196B2 Robotic testing device and method for more closely emulating human movements during robotic testing of a user device
In some embodiments, robotic testing device is provided for more closely emulating human movement during robotic testing of a user device. In some embodiments, the robotic testing device may facilitate use of multiple robotic implements configured to interact with a mobile device during testing of the mobile device. One or more of the multiple robotic implements may be configured to move simultaneously, in succession, separately, and/or otherwise interact with a mobile device during performance of a test command on the mobile device. Further, a holder of the mobile device may be configured to move during performance of a test command on the mobile device.
US09718186B2 Robot
A robot includes a work tool that performs a work to a work point, and a moving unit that moves the work tool and changes the posture thereof. A console receives an operation to designate the coordinates of arbitrary two or three points on an inclined surface. Upon this operation, a processor calculates a direction of the work tool toward the work point from a work start point based on the coordinates of the arbitrary two or three points, next, a control unit moves the work tool to the work start point, directs the posture of the work tool toward the work point in accordance with the calculation by the processor, and causes the work tool to start a process to the work point.
US09718185B2 System and method for reinforcing programming education through robotic feedback
A method for toy robot programming, the toy robot including a set of sensors, the method including, at a user device remote from the toy robot: receiving sensor measurements from the toy robot during physical robot manipulation; in response to detecting a programming trigger event, automatically converting the sensor measurements into a series of puppeted programming inputs; and displaying graphical representations of the set of puppeted programming inputs on a programming interface application on the user device.
US09718184B2 Tool box holding accessible but not removable tool when closed
A tool box contains a body, at least one cover, and at least one fixer. The body includes at least one first accommodating portion for accommodating plural first tools and includes at least one display zone in which at least one holding portion is defined to hold at least one second tool. The at least one fixer is disposed in the at least one display zone of the body, and each of the at least one fixer includes at least one stopper to fix the at least one second tool in the at least one display zone. The at least one cover covers the body and includes at least one receiving groove formed therein and corresponding to the at least one display zone of the body to expose the at least one second tool in the at least one display zone of the body.
US09718175B1 Method and device for manipulating a magnetic object
A novel, simple, inexpensive and universal device and method for manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape with side surfaces and an end surface such as a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, and the like is disclosed. One embodiment of the device includes a head assembly having a magnetic field. The head assembly includes a body and a magnetic pole piece. The body serves to support the magnetic pole piece and the magnetic pole piece is configured to contact no more than two side surfaces of the magnetic object. The magnetic pole piece is also constructed and arranged to concentrate and shape the magnetic field into the magnetic object. The head assembly is further configured to be spatially open opposite from the magnetic pole piece so as to receive and contact the magnetic object.
US09718164B2 Polishing system and polishing method
A polishing system for polishing a semiconductor wafer includes a wafer support for holding the semiconductor wafer, and a first polishing pad for polishing a region of the semiconductor wafer. The semiconductor wafer has a first diameter, and the first polishing pad has a second diameter shorter than the first diameter.
US09718162B2 Compression line spring grinding device
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for grinding a compression line spring. The apparatus includes a lower chain conveyor (100), an upper chain conveyor (200), and grinding units (300). The lower chain conveyor includes chain units each having first support blocks (115) for supporting compression line springs. The upper chain conveyor includes chain units each having second support blocks (215) for compressing downward upper portions of the compression line springs and thus supporting the compression line springs. The grinding units grind seat surfaces formed on opposite ends of the compression line springs that are moved by the upper and lower chain conveyors. A V-shaped depression (115a) is formed in each first support block so that each of the compression line springs is seated onto the corresponding V-shaped depression. A lower surface (215a) of the second support block that compresses the compression line springs has a planar structure.
US09718158B2 Fastening device and fastening method
A fastening device includes first to third rotary sensors (position detecting unit) which are provided in a support arm and detect a position of a nut runner (fastening tool), and a main controller (controlling unit) which has a storage unit for storing a plurality of fastening positions of a chain cover, and drives the nut runner when a detection result from the first to third rotary sensors coincides with position information of the fastening position of the chain cover stored by the storage unit. Therefore, during a fastening work, an operator does not need to pull a trigger to drive and rotate the nut runner, thus reducing a burden on the operator during the fastening work.
US09718156B2 Injector sleeve removal tool
A tool for removing an injector sleeve from the cylinder head of a diesel engine between the rocker arms while the head remains mounted to the engine block within the vehicle. The devices includes a tap having a longitudinal body and a threaded cutting head at one end. A drive member comprises a bolt having a head at one distal end. An extraction nut is threaded onto the threaded shaft of the drive member followed by a bearing surface member such as a spacer. A hollow cylinder or support sleeve having an internal diameter greater than the injector sleeve to be removed and an external diameter less than the diameter of the sleeve bore includes a shoulder member.
US09718154B2 Slot machining
A method for cutting a blade root retention slot in a turbine engine disk element includes forming a precursor slot in the element. The precursor slot has first and second sidewalls and a base. A rotating bit is passed through the precursor slot to machine the base. The bit rotates about an axis off-normal to a direction of passing. A cutting performance of the rotating bit is modeled reflecting a chip trapping intensity parameter and a heat intensity parameter. At least one parameter of the bit and its passing is selected so as to avoid tool loading where removed chips/swarf stick onto the bit.
US09718150B2 Weld metal excellent in hydrogen embrittlement resistance
Disclosed is a weld metal which is formed by gas-shielded arc welding using a flux-cored wire, and which has a specific chemical composition, in which retained austenite particles are present in a number density of 2500 per square millimeter or more and in a total volume fraction of 4.0% or more based on the total volume of entire structures of the weld metal. The weld metal has excellent hydrogen embrittlement resistance and is resistant to cracking at low temperatures even when the weld metal has a high strength.
US09718146B2 System and method for calibrating laser processing machines
A method calibrates a laser processing machine by commanding a scan head to direct a laser beam to a desired position, then senses an actual position of the laser beam directly using a position sensitive detector (PSD) after the scan head is positioned. A relative position between the scan head and PSD is altered using one or more linear actuators. A position feedback loop is closed around the linear actuators so that the relative position of the laser beam on the PSD is reduced to zero. The actual position of the laser spot is then measured indirectly by encoders attached to linear axes of the laser processing machine. The actual position is stored in a memory. An error is determined as a difference between the desired position and the actual position. Compensation coefficients are determined from the error and stored for later use during operation of the laser processing machine.
US09718142B2 Method and apparatus for welding with CV control
A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The output is preferably a cyclical CV MIG output, and each cycle is divided into segments. An output parameter is sampled a plurality of times within one or more of the segments. The CV output is controlled within the at least one segment in response to the sampling. The parameter is output power, a resistance of the load, an output current, an output voltage, or functions thereof in various embodiments. The control loop is preferably a PI or PID loop. The loop may be applied only within a window. The set point may be taught or fixed. The system can be used to weld with a controlled arc length.
US09718138B2 Cutting insert, cutting tool, and method of producing machined product
A cutting insert has an upper surface, a lower surface, a side surface connected to each of the upper surface and the lower surface, and a cutting edge having sequentially a corner cutting edge, a first straight cutting edge, a second straight cutting edge, and a third straight cutting edge, which are located along an intersection of the upper surface and the side surface and intersect one another at an obtuse angle. The upper surface has a first inclined surface extending along the first straight cutting edge, a second inclined surface extending along the second straight cutting edge, and a third inclined surface extending along the third straight cutting edge. An inclination angle of the second inclined surface with respect to the lower surface is larger than an inclination angle of each of the first inclined surface and the third inclined surface with respect to the lower surface.
US09718135B2 Drill chuck
A drill chuck having a chuck body that has a receptacle on its axially rearward end, having clamping jaws that can be moved relative to the chuck axis, and having a clamping sleeve that serves to move the clamping jaws. An adapter body can be placed in the receptacle and coupled in a torque-transmitting manner, which adapter body has an adapter receptacle for detachable connection to the drilling spindle of a power drill and has, in the wall of the adapter receptacle, at least one detent element that can be moved by a release sleeve.
US09718129B2 Additive manufacturing method and apparatus
A method for forming a three-dimensional article, said method comprising the steps of: providing a predetermined amount of powder for forming a first powder layer on a start plate, distributing said predetermined amount of powder with a powder distributor for forming said first powder layer, directing an energy beam over said start plate causing said first powder layer to fuse in selected locations according to a model to form a first cross section of said three-dimensional article. At least one image of the powder to be distributed is captured with a camera at least one time during said distribution of said powder on said start plate for forming said first powder layer and at least one value of at least one parameter in said image detected with said camera is compared with a reference parameter value.
US09718122B2 Apparatus for producing a piston
An apparatus for producing a piston may include a casting mold having an axially open cavity defining a surrounding cavity wall, the cavity wall being profiled to receive an annular core to define a cooling duct geometry. A core holding device may be adjustable in an axial direction for introducing the core into the casting mold. The core holding device may include a gripping device for gripping the core. The gripping device may include a plurality of spreadable first grippers. The plurality of first grippers may be adjustable at least between a first position, in which the plurality of first grippers are arranged in a radially inner position, and a second position, in which the plurality of first grippers transition radially outwards in relation to the first position and support the core.
US09718115B2 Production method for a semi-finished product and semi-finished product
The production method according to the invention for creating a thread in an elongated semi-finished product comprises the following steps: shaping, especially lengthwise rolling, of at least two lengthwise grooves into a blank and lengthwise rolling of a thread into the areas circumferentially delimited by the grooves. The distance from the beds of the grooves to the axis of the blank is smaller than the distance from the root of the thread to the axis.
US09718112B2 Method and mould for manufacturing drive plate of electromagnetic-fan clutch, and manufactured drive plate
A drive plate of an electromagnetic-fan clutch comprises: a body of the drive plate provided with magnetic-insulation air holes, connection ribs, and magnetic conductive layers. The magnetic-insulation air holes and the magnetic conductive layers are arranged alternatively along a radial direction of the body of the drive plate. A friction-increasing groove is opened on the magnetic conductive layer. The thickness of the magnetic insulation air holes and the thickness of the connection ribs are less than the thickness of the magnetic conductive layers. Six connection ribs are distributed uniformly between the magnetic conductive layers, and the connection ribs at two sides of the magnetic conductive layer are distributed along the radial direction of the body of the drive plate at an interval of 30 degrees. A drive plate through hole is opened in the body of the drive plate, and accommodation walls are disposed on the magnetic conductive layers.
US09718109B2 Punch assemblies and universal punch therefor
A punch tip design configured to be universal in its application with wide varieties of punch assemblies, and various punch body designs from which universal application of the punch tip is exemplified. In some cases, ancillary components used with the various punch body designs enhance ease by which the operator can selectively manipulate the same for alternately securing or releasing the punch tip.
US09718106B2 Centrifugally cast, hot-rolling composite roll
A centrifugally cast, hot-rolling composite roll comprising an outer layer formed by a centrifugal casting method, and an inner layer made of ductile cast iron and integrally fused to the outer layer; the outer layer having a chemical composition comprising by mass 1-3% of C, 0.4-3% of Si, 0.3-3% of Mn, 1-5% of Ni, 2-7% of Cr, 3-8% of Mo, 3-7% of V, and 0.01-0.12% of B, the balance being Fe and inevitable impurities, and meeting the relation expressed by Cr/(Mo+0.5W)<−2/3[C−0.2(V+1.19Nb)]+11/6, wherein W=0, and Nb=0, when W and Nb are not contained; and containing by area 1-15% of MC carbide, 0.5-20% of carboboride, and 0.5-20% of Mo-based carbide.
US09718104B2 System and method for remediating highly contaminated fine soil using multiple micro hydrocyclones
The present invention relates to a system for remediating highly contaminated fine soil using multiple micro hydrocyclones that includes: a mill adapted to mix contaminated soil with water and to individualize the soil; a screen adapted to separate the soil introduced from the mill into soil having given particle sizes; a separator adapted to finely separate the soil having particle sizes of less than a given value by particle size from the soil having the given particle sizes separated through the screen; a remediating unit adapted to wash the finely separated soil introduced from the separator by particle size by means of process water for washing; and a filtering unit adapted to separately discharge the soil washed and introduced through the remediating unit and the process water for washing contained in the soil.
US09718099B2 Vibration damper for reducing vibrations of a low frequency sound generator
The invention relates to a vibration damper (1) configured to be provided on a low frequency sound generator, which comprises a feeder unit (2) with a positive feedback system regulated by a reciprocating spring loaded piston (3) and a resonator tube (4). The vibration damper (1) may be positioned outside the resonator tube (4). The vibration damper (1) comprises a first flange (5) connected to the resonator tube (4), a number of springs (6), a second flange (7) and a number of weights (8).
US09718097B2 Method of forming a multi-layer paint film
A method of forming multi-layer paint films comprises forming a first base paint film, wherein an aqueous first base paint (A) is coated over an object; forming a second base paint film wherein a second aqueous base paint (B) is coated over the uncured first base paint film; forming a clear paint film wherein a clear paint (C) is coated over the uncured second based paint film; and heating and curing the first base paint film, the second base paint film, and the clear paint film at the same time and in which the aqueous first base paint (A) includes as the base resin a water-soluble or water-dispersible acrylic resin (A1) and one or more type of water-soluble or water-dispersible resin (A2), selected from among the polyester resins, polyurethane resins and acrylic-urethane resins, both (A1) and (A2) having a weight average molecular weight of from 10,000 to 100,000.
US09718095B2 Headlight restoration kit
A method and kit for restoration of a plastic headlight surface including the steps of conditioning a headlight surface by wet sanding with 600 grit sandpaper effective to remove a laminate coating, wiping the headlight surface with a lint free towel, cleaning the headlight surface with an alcohol treated towel, coating the headlight surface with an ultra violet light curable restoration formulation comprising aliphatic urethane acrylate in the range of 25% to 60%, a photoinitiator in the range of 1% to 5%, N-butyl acetate in the range of 5% to 25%, Toluene in the range of 3% to 15%, a Methyl isobutyl ketone in the range of 3% to 15%, a light stabilizer in the range of 1% to 5%, and includes a flow agent; and exposing the coated headlight surface to an ultra-violet light for about 2 minutes. In the preferred embodiment, the formulation includes a hydrocarbon propellant and is applied from a spray can.
US09718091B2 Integrated fluidjet system for stripping, prepping and coating a part
A method of stripping, prepping and coating a surface comprises first stripping the exiting coating from a surface, using continuous or pulsed fluid jet, followed by prepping the surface by the same fluid jet. The method also provides entraining particles into a fluid stream, if desired to generate a particle-entrained fluid stream that is directed at the surface to be stripped and prepped. The particles act as abrasive particles for prepping the surface to a prescribed surface roughness required for subsequent application of a coating to the surface. The method then entails coating the surface by electrically charging particles having the same chemical composition as the particles used to prep the surface. Finally, a charged-particle-entrained fluid stream is directed at high speed at the charged surface to coat the surface. The particles form both mechanical and electronic bonds with the surface.
US09718079B2 Method and apparatus for treating components
A dip tank is fillable with a liquid. An accommodation device accommodates components and is rotatingly drivable around an axis of rotation. The accommodation device and the dip tank are movable relative to each other to dip the components in the dip tank or to lift the components out of the dip tank. A splash guard is provided. A lifting device is arranged to move the splash guard relative to the dip tank.
US09718069B2 Foam pump
The present disclosure relates to a non-aerosol foam pump for use in association with an unpressurized liquid container and a foaming element comprising. The pump includes a liquid pump portion and an air pump portion. The liquid pump portion has a liquid chamber with a liquid internal volume and a shuttle liquid piston. The liquid chamber is in flow communication with the unpressurized liquid container and in flow communication with the foaming element. The air pump portion has an air chamber with an air internal volume. The air chamber is in flow communication with the foaming element. The liquid pump portion and the air pump portion have an activation stroke and a return stroke. During the activation stroke the air internal volume is reduced and during a beginning stage of the stroke the liquid internal volume remains the same and during a later stage the liquid internal volume is reduced.
US09718066B2 Method for separating a defined mineral phase of value from a ground ore
A defined mineral phase is separated from a ground ore having several chemical phases and being present in a heterogeneous particle size distribution by classifying the ore according to a defined particle diameter into at least two fractions, a first fraction having particles essentially larger than the defined particle diameter and a second fraction having particles essentially smaller than the defined particle diameter, and the defined mineral particles of value being present in both fractions, floating the first fraction having the greater particle diameters and selecting the defined mineral particles of value in a flotation concentrate, selectively admixing the defined mineral particles of value in the fraction having the smaller particle diameters with magnetizable particles, applying a magnetic separation process to the second fraction having smaller particle diameters, and separating a concentrate with an enrichment of the defined mineral phase of value.
US09718062B2 Crusher with adjustable closed side setting
A crusher is provided having improved wear resistance and crushing capacity. Particularly, the crusher provides an improved mechanism for adjusting the closed side setting by acting on an adjustable jaw, rather than the moveable jaw. The crusher includes a moveable jaw, an adjustable jaw, and a frame that supports the adjustable jaw and the moveable jaw such that the adjustable jaw and the moveable jaw define a crushing chamber having an upper opening for receiving a material to be crushed and a lower opening for expelling crushed material from the chamber after crushing. The crusher also includes a drive mechanism coupled to the moveable jaw for directing reciprocating motion of the moveable jaw and an adjustment mechanism coupled to the adjustable jaw for altering an angle of the adjustable jaw and, thereby, altering a closed side setting of the crushing chamber.
US09718058B2 Cartridges, kits, and methods for enhanced detection and quantification of analytes
Devices, systems, and methods for detecting molecules of interest within a collected sample are described herein. In certain embodiments, self-contained sample analysis systems are disclosed, which include a reusable reader component, a disposable cartridge component, and a disposable sample collection component. The reader component may communicate with a remote computing device for the digital transmission of test protocols and test results. In various disclosed embodiments, the systems, components, and methods are configured to identify the presence, absence, and/or quantity of particular nucleic acids, proteins, or other analytes of interest, for example, in order to test for the presence of one or more pathogens or contaminants in a sample.
US09718051B2 Zeolite SSZ-57 having enhanced large pore selectvity
The present invention is directed to an alumino-borosilicate SSZ-57 zeolite having enhanced large pore selectivity. The alumino-borosilicate SSZ-57 zeolite of the present invention is characterized as having substantially all of its aluminum atoms located within regions of the zeolite structure which form the 12 ring channels.
US09718048B2 Oxide materials and synthesis by fluoride/chloride anion promoted exfoliation
The present invention is directed to the synthesis of novel delaminated layered zeolite precursor materials prepared by fluoride/chloride anion-promoted exfoliation. The method comprises, for example, using a combination of fluoride and chloride anions at a mild pH in a non-aqueous solution to affect delamination of a layered zeolite precursor, generally comprising an organic solvent. The method may be used in conjunction with either acidification or sonication, or both. The resulting delaminated zeolite precursors are then isolated. Precursors that are then isolated lack amorphous silica content. The UCB-1 product is an example of such a novel oxide material and is obtained in yields in excess of 90% without the need for sonication.
US09718045B2 Composites for carbon dioxide capture
Composite materials and methods of preparing C02 capture include: (1) a porous solid support comprising a plurality of porous channels; and (2) a nucleophilic source associated with the porous channels of the porous solid support. The nucleophilic source is capable of converting the captured C02 to poly(C02). Methods of capturing C02 from an environment include associating the environment with the aforementioned composite materials to lead to the capture of C02 from the environment. Such methods may also include a step of releasing the captured C02 from the composite material. The associating step comprises a conversion of the captured C02 to poly(C02) in the composite material. A releasing step may also include a depolymerization of the formed poly(C02).
US09718034B1 Aeration device
An aeration device includes a pipe, connection members and a first connection unit which is connected to the connection member. The first connection unit includes a first connector, a first connection part, a one-way member, a second connector, a turbine unit and a shell. When air enters into the pipe, the shell guides the air and liquid in the pound into the turbine unit via the second and third rooms so as to increase the mixing feature of the air and the liquid in the pound.
US09718027B2 Method and system for mitigating urea deposits within an SCR catalyst system
A method and system for mitigating a urea deposit within an SCR system that includes determining a mass of an accumulated urea deposit present within the SCR catalyst and SCR piping, comparing the mass of the accumulated urea deposit with a deposit upper threshold limit, and initiating an SCR regeneration event when the mass of the accumulated urea deposit is greater than the deposit upper threshold limit. The method further includes determining an amount of NH3 passing through the SCR catalyst downstream of the urea deposit, comparing the amount of NH3 passing through the SCR catalyst with an NH3 regeneration threshold limit, and terminating the SCR regeneration event when the level of NH3 passing through the SCR catalyst is less than the SCR NH3 regeneration threshold.
US09718026B2 Exhaust gas purification filter
An exhaust gas purification filter that is suitable for arrangement in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine and for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, comprises: exhaust gas inflow passages and exhaust gas outflow passages that are arranged alternately; and porous partitions that separate the exhaust gas inflow passages and the exhaust gas outflow passages from each other. Each of the partitions is divided into a coated zone in which a surface of a partition base is coated with a coating layer having a smaller average pore diameter than an average pore diameter of the partition base and a non-coated zone that is located on a downstream side of the coated zone and in which a surface of the partition base is not coated with the coating layer.
US09718022B2 Device for producing purified oxygen
A device for producing purified oxygen, has a feed (1, 1′) of a mixture of oxygen and argon, and has at least one bed (2, 2A, 2B) of oxygen adsorption material, a purge (3, 3′) for discharging the separated argon and a circuit (4, 4′) for injecting a portion of the purified oxygen produced, into the feed (1, 1′). The device has a programmable logic controller (PLC) for treating the degree of purity and/or the production flow rate that can be set by the user and a control of said purge (3, 3′) as a function of the degree of purity of the purified oxygen and/or of the production flow rate which are desired by the user.
US09718020B2 Waved filter media and elements
Various high performance, high efficiency filter media are provided that are cost effective and easy to manufacture. In particular, various filter media are provided having at least one layer with a waved configuration that results in an increased surface area, thereby enhancing various properties of the filter media. The filter media can be used to form a variety of filter elements for use in various applications.
US09718013B2 Formation and immobilization of small particles by using polyelectrolyte multilayers
A method for forming and immobilizing small particles on a filter substrate using a first and second polymer solution, a solution of sodium bromide and a solution of a metal salt. The method adjusts the pH of at least one of the first and second polymer solutions, immersing the filter substrate in the first polymer solution and immersing the filter substrate in the second polymer solution. The method includes repeating the steps of immersing the filter substrate in the first solution and the second solution alternately until desired number of layers is achieved. The method allows for the filter substrate to be immersed in the solution of the metal salt and subsequently in the solution of sodium bromide.
US09718012B2 Fine fiber media layer
Disclosed are improved polymer materials. Also disclosed are fine fiber materials that can be made from the improved polymeric materials in the form of microfiber and nanofiber structures. The microfiber and nanofiber structures can be used in a variety of useful applications including the formation of filter materials.
US09718002B2 Continuous evaporative concentration of used drilling muds
Used water-in-oil emulsified drilling muds are prepared for reuse by removing excess water. The excess water is removed by passing the used mud through a cavitation device, under controlled conditions, along with injected air. While the emulsion is heated in the cavitation device, the air is finely dispersed in it, so is able to absorb water evaporated from the discrete, discontinuous phase aqueous droplets in the emulsion. A mixture of incoming and aerated emulsion is maintained at an optimal temperature in a process tank while a steady state continuous process is controlled to utilize the heat input, after compensating for radiant heat losses and other system losses, substantially exclusively for the evaporation of water in the emulsion. The process is applicable to any water-in-oil emulsion.
US09718001B2 Biomass fractionation and extraction methods
A biomass fractionation apparatus includes a vessel having a processing chamber, an inlet configured to receive a biomass into the processing chamber, and an outlet configured to discharge processed biomass from the chamber. A bed plate is movably positioned within the processing chamber and includes a plurality of elongated fins extending outwardly therefrom in substantially parallel spaced-apart relationship. A cylindrical rotor is rotatably secured within the processing chamber in adjacent, spaced-apart relationship with the bed plate. The rotor has a plurality of elongated blades extending radially outwardly therefrom in circumferentially spaced-apart relationship. Upon rotation of the rotor, the blades are configured to accelerate a biomass within the processing chamber against the fins of the bed plate and to cause the bed plate to pulsate against the rotor.
US09718000B2 Apparatus and method for material treatment of raw materials
The invention relates to an apparatus for the material treatment of raw materials. The apparatus has a heating system, a distillation unit and a reaction unit to be loaded with the raw materials for treatment. The heating system can be opened and closed to be fitted with the reaction unit. The heating system comprises a top element and a jacket element firmly connected to the top element, and supporting elements. The length of the support elements can be varied in the vertical direction, between two end positions, the heating system can be opened and closed in the vertical direction of movement. The invention further relates to a method for operating an apparatus for the material treatment of raw materials.
US09717998B2 Double-sided toy car
A double-sided toy vehicle comprises a vehicle body, a driving mechanism, a transmission mechanism, a driven wheel set, a first driving wheel set and a second driving wheel set, in which the transmission mechanism comprises a reverse gear, a double gear, a transition gear, a first output gear and a second output gear; the reverse gear meshes with a rotating shaft gear of an electrical motor of the driving mechanism, and provided with an axial gear protruding axially and meshing with a first gear of the double gear; the double gear is provided at a position between the first output gear and the second output gear, achieving transmission of power of the electrical motor; the first output gear meshes with a second gear of the double gear through the transition gear, and the second output gear directly meshes with the second gear of the double gear to achieve the transmission.
US09717997B2 Method to render global 5 DoF motion effect with multiple local force-feedback
In order to generate force feedback data for a haptic device for providing simulated six degrees of freedom movement, a three dimensional acceleration component corresponding to the movement to be simulated is determined, a three dimensional velocity component corresponding to the movement to be simulated is determined and control signals for controlling at least three force feedback devices are determined, wherein each of the three force feedback devices provides three dimensional force effects to a fixation point associated to each of it, the three force feedback devices being arranged at defined positions with regard to each other, and the three fixation points define a geometric plane.
US09717991B2 Quality of experience reverse control for electronic games
Technologies and implementations for managing an experience during play of an interactive electronic game are generally disclosed.
US09717986B1 System and method for providing a quest from a probability item bundle in an online game
A system and method for providing a quest from a probability item bundle in an online game. The system and method include executing an instance of an online game. The system and method include maintaining inventories of virtual items, and presenting offers to sell probability item bundles. The system and method include associating potential awards in sets of potential awards with different award distribution probabilities. The system and method include receiving activation requests from users for purchased probability item bundles. The system and method include stochastically selecting one of the potential awards in accordance with the award distribution probabilities and providing access to a first quest in an online game in accordance with the selected award.
US09717979B2 Card handling devices and related methods
Card handling devices comprise a card handling zone. A card infeed tray is configured to pass cards to the card handling zone and a separate card output tray is configured to receive cards from the card handling zone. A control system of the card handling device comprises at least one electronic signal processor, at least one memory device in electrical communication with the electronic signal processor, and a computer program stored in the memory of the memory device. The computer program is programmed to cause the control system to selectively control at least one of a card infeed system, the card handling zone, and a card output system of the card handling device and to receive an input from a user input to selectively perform at least one of a shuffling operation, a sorting operation, and a dealing operation using the card handling device.
US09717974B2 Pole and support base assembly
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure describe a pole and base assembly. The pole and base assembly includes a pole with an upper engagement portion and a lower engagement portion that are biased toward each other. A base includes a socket to receive the pole and a channel that allows the lower engagement portion to pass through the base. The upper engagement portion is retained on the top surface of the base. When the lower engagement portion is passed through the socket and aligned with a locking portion, the biasing force causes the upper and lower engagement portions to clamp together around the base and lock the pole to the base.
US09717973B2 Basketball stopping wall
The present disclosure provides a basketball stopping apparatus arranged for attachment to a basketball goal assembly. In some embodiments, the basketball stopping apparatus is configurable between a first position and a second position, the first position being arranged for the deflection of errant basketball shots and the second position being arranged for storage of the basketball stopping apparatus before and/or after use. Additionally, some embodiments include a wall coupled to base arms that are pivotably mounted to a bottom end of the basketball goal assembly.
US09717965B2 Golf club grip and golf club
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf club grip excellent in grip performance in a wet condition. The present invention provides a golf club grip formed from a rubber composition comprising a base rubber and a crosslinking agent, wherein the base rubber comprises a hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber and/or a carboxyl-modified acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber.
US09717964B2 Golf putter with configurable powered accessories
A novelty golf club in the form of a putter is disclosed. A conventional putter is adapted to include a battery assembly disposed in the grip end of a club shaft. The battery assembly includes a set of batteries arranged end to end. A pair of terminals are configured at the battery assembly adjacent a first coupling element. A powered accessory has a second coupling element which cooperates with the first coupling element to releasably secure the powered accessory to the battery assembly. A variety of powered accessories, such as a fan assembly, a mixer assembly, a string trimmer assembly, a vibrating massager, a flashlight, and a charging unit are configured for the novelty golf club.
US09717958B1 Smart sport device
An Internet of Thing (IoT) sport device includes a camera coupled to a processor; and a wireless transceiver coupled to the processor.
US09717955B2 Golf ball
A golf ball 2 includes a spherical core 4, a mid layer 6, and a cover 8. The core 4 is obtained by crosslinking a rubber composition. The difference between: a hardness H(5.0) at a point which is located at a distance of 5 mm from the central point of the core 4; and a hardness Ho at the central point is 6.0 or greater. The difference between: a hardness H(12.5) at a point which is located at a distance of 12.5 mm from the central point; and the hardness H(5.0) is 4.0 or less. The difference between a hardness Hs at the surface of the core 4 and the hardness H(12.5) is 10.0 or greater. The difference between the hardness Hs and the hardness Ho is 22.0 or greater. There is no zone in which a hardness decreases from the central point to the surface. A Shore D hardness H3 of the cover is greater than a Shore D hardness H2 of the mid layer.
US09717946B2 Systems and methods for training and imaging an animal in an awaken state
Systems for training an animal, such as a rodent, to maintain its head substantially motionless during an imaging procedure using an imaging and training system are disclosed. In some embodiments, the imaging and training system includes a frame defining an enclosure for enclosing an animal therein during the imaging procedure. The frame includes a head post that is attached to the head of the animal and a treadmill having a plurality of rollers that the animal is in operative contact such that one or more of the plurality of wheels rotate when the animal is in a walking motion and stop rotating when the animal is in a substantially motionless state. This arrangement trains the animal to remain substantially motionless when disposed within an imaging apparatus.
US09717938B2 Fire and smoke compositions and the processes of making them
A sodium polyacrylate and distilled water composition for fire and smoke prevention, suppression or extinction, and methods of making and using the same.
US09717921B2 Treating inflammation, chronic pain and other disorders with neuromodulation
Some implementations provide a method of treating chronic pain or inflammation with neural modulation, the method including: placing a surgical instrument to reach into a torso section of a patient's body, the patient suffering from chronic pain or inflammation in a primary area in the torso section; placing a wireless device into an opening on the surgical instrument, the wireless device suitable to fit into the opening and configured to receive electromagnetic energy non-inductively from a source located outside the patient's body; through the opening on the surgical instrument, positioning the wireless electrode lead adjacent to or near excitable tissue in the primary area in the torso section of the patient; and causing electrical pulses to be delivered to one or more electrodes on the wireless device such that neural modulation is applied to the excitable tissue in the primary area in the torso section.
US09717912B2 Method and system for determining settings for deep brain stimulation
A method and system are provided for determining a relation between stimulation settings for a brain stimulation probe and a corresponding V-field. The brain stimulation probe comprises multiple stimulation electrodes. The V-field is an electrical field in brain tissue surrounding the stimulation electrodes. The method comprises sequentially applying a test current to n stimulation electrodes, n being a number between 2 and the number of stimulation electrodes of the brain stimulation probe, for each test current at one of the n stimulation electrodes, measuring a resulting excitation voltage at m stimulation electrodes, m being a number between 2 and the number of stimulation electrodes of the brain stimulation probe, from the stimulation settings and the measured excitation voltages, deriving a coupling matrix, an element in the coupling matrix reflecting an amount of electrical impedance between two of the stimulation electrodes, and using the coupling matrix for determining the relation between the stimulation settings and the corresponding V-field.
US09717911B2 Implantable pulse generator that generates spinal cord stimulation signals for a human body
An implantable pulse generator (IPG) that generates spinal cord stimulation signals for a human body has a programmable signal generator that can generate the signals based on stored signal parameters without any intervention from a processor that controls the overall operation of the IPG. While the signal generator is generating the signals the processor can be in a standby mode to substantially save battery power.
US09717909B2 Systems and methods for facilitating post-implant acoustic-only operation of an electro-acoustic stimulation (“EAS”) sound processor
An exemplary system includes 1) an electro-acoustic stimulation (“EAS”) sound processor located external to a patient, 2) a cochlear implant communicatively coupled to the EAS sound processor and implanted within the patient, 3) an electrode array communicatively coupled to the cochlear implant and located within a cochlea of the patient, and 4) a receiver communicatively coupled to the EAS sound processor and configured to be in communication with an ear of the patient. The EAS sound processor operates in accordance with an acoustic-only mode during a post-implant time period and detects audio content presented to the patient, directs the receiver to apply acoustic stimulation, and prevents the cochlear implant from applying electrical stimulation representative of audio content presented to the patient during the post-implant time period. Corresponding systems and methods are also disclosed.
US09717907B2 Radio frequency (“RF”) power level management systems and methods for use in a cochlear implant system
An exemplary system may include a sound processor that provides radio frequency (RF) power and a cochlear implant that operates in accordance with the RF power. The cochlear implant may include a positive current source and a negative current source that may be electrically coupled to an electrode by way of a common node. The sound processor may 1) direct the cochlear implant to concurrently enable the positive and negative current sources in order to generate a current that has a first predetermined current level and that flows though the positive and negative current sources from a positive voltage supply to a negative voltage supply without providing stimulation to the electrode in a manner perceptible to the patient, and 2) determine a power level of the RF power that is required to generate the current having the first predetermined current level. Corresponding apparatuses and methods are also described.
US09717903B1 Electronic process to restore, improve and/or strengthen the libido; method to mend the sex drive in males and females
Methods to restore and/or improve the libido, the sex drive, in males and females, without introducing any external unnatural drugs. The process utilizes a TENS/EMS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation/Electronic Muscle Stimulation) machine to naturally generate the increased production by the human body's nerve fiber's neurotransmitters.
US09717897B2 Male reflux valve
A male reflux valve comprising a distal body portion and a proximal body portion, the proximal body portion having a male connection for connection to a female connection of an access device, a valve element operatively positioned within the distal body portion, a core operatively positioned within the distal body portion to retain the valve element into sealing engagement with the distal body portion and an actuator reciprocably retained within a generally circular cylindrical longitudinal bore of the proximal body portion in engagement with the valve element to open the valve element when engaged by the female connection of the access device.
US09717895B2 Overmolded access port including anchoring and identification features
An access port for providing subcutaneous access to a patient is disclosed. In one embodiment, the port includes an internal body defining a fluid cavity that is accessible via a septum. A compliant outer cover including silicone is disposed about at least a portion of the body. A flange is included with the port body and is covered by the outer cover. The flange radially extends about a perimeter of the port body proximate the septum so as to impede penetration of a needle substantially into the outer cover in instances where the needle misses the septum. The flange can further include both an anchoring feature for securing the outer cover to the port body and an identification feature observable via x-ray imaging technology for conveying information indicative of at least one attribute of the access port. The outer cover provides a suitable surface for application of an antimicrobial/antithrombotic coating.
US09717892B2 Dispensing applicator for fluids
A liquid dispensing applicator may include a liquid source for housing a liquid. An absorbent member may be adjacent to a proximal end of the liquid source, and may be configured to deliver the liquid to an external surface. An attachment member may secure the absorbent member to the liquid source, and may include a through passage to allow the liquid to flow from the liquid source into the absorbent member. A rigid member may extend outwardly from the attachment member into the absorbent member. A shield member may be positioned adjacent to the attachment member and may extend from the attachment member so as to be positioned within the absorbent member. A capillary tube may be configured to provide fluid communication between the liquid source and the liquid dispenser upon application of pressure to the liquid source.
US09717889B2 Endovascular devices and methods for exploiting intramural space
The present disclosure is directed to a device. The device may include a distal shaft defining a central lumen and an orienting element comprising at least one inflatable member. Wherein a first portion of the orienting element extending from the shaft in a first direction and a second portion of the orienting element extending from the shaft in a second direction. Further, wherein the second direction is substantially opposite the first direction.
US09717888B2 Guidewire clamp and introducer
A guidewire for medical procedures can be maintained in a coiled configuration with a clamp. Multiple clamped and coiled guidewires may be stored in a fluid-filled, storage bowl concurrently. Different clamps may have different colors to differentiate the clamps and clamped guidewires. The clamps may be markable to provide additional differentiation. The clamps can further comprise a guidewire introduction funnel and/or a guidewire torquer.
US09717887B2 Catheter assembly blood control device and related methods
A catheter assembly includes a catheter hub and an introducer needle. The introducer needle extends through the catheter hub and through a catheter tube so as to assist placement of the catheter tube into a patient's blood vessel. Blood flashback into the catheter tube and/or catheter hub can indicate when the catheter tube is properly positioned within the blood vessel. After proper catheter tube placement is confirmed through blood flashback, the introducer needle is withdrawn. A septum blocks flashback blood from flowing proximally out of the catheter hub. One or more air vents enable air within the hub to vent when flashback blood enters the catheter hub. A porous hydrophobic material covers the one or more air vents. The hydrophobic material allows the air to flow therethrough and through the vents, but repels blood, blocking blood from flowing through the air vents.
US09717885B1 Catheter stabilization device
The invention refers to a stabilization device for attaching and securing a catheter to the skin of a patient in order to maintain the catheter correctly placed through a catheter insertion site. The stabilization device includes a catheter clipping element which is attached to an anti-allergic adhesive pad. The catheter clipping element includes a clipping body that ends in open arms for easy and convenient clipping and unclipping of a catheter, cannula, catheter or cannula terminal adapter, or the like. The clipping body is oriented outwards from the top surface of the pad in a transverse direction, a vertical direction, or both transversely and vertically, in order to facilitate clipping and unclipping. A longitudinal axis of the clipping body can be tilted towards the pad top surface in order to enhance stabilization and favor correct orientation of the catheter towards the insertion site.
US09717881B2 Methods and apparatus for intermittent stimuli
In exemplary implementations of this invention, stimuli are intermittently presented to the left or right side of a user. For example, this invention may comprise a method of presenting stimuli to a bilateral organism, which organism has a left side and a right side, wherein: (a) the stimuli are produced by at least one transducer, (b) the stimuli include an intermittent beat train, and (c) the beat train has a beat frequency that is substantially equal to 7.8×(1.618)n Hz, where n is an even integer, which even integer may be negative, zero or positive.
US09717878B2 Method and apparatus for facilitating delivery of anaesthetic
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for facilitating anaesthesia, particularly in Re-Breather anaesthetic circuits. A problem with Re-Breather circuits is that their dynamic response can be relatively slow. The dynamic response is the response of the circuit to delivering changes of anaesthetic concentration. In current circuits, Fresh Gas containing anaesthetic is delivered into the circuit and may be substantially diluted by the gas already present in the circuit. It is therefore difficult to achieve a rapid increase of anaesthetic concentration for delivery to the patient. In the present invention, an accumulator is placed in the Re-Breather circuit to accumulate Fresh Gas containing anaesthetic as it is introduced into the circuit, adjacent an inhalation conduit to the patient. Fresh Gas containing high concentrations of anaesthetic is therefore immediately available to the patient.
US09717874B2 Conduit and method of forming
A thin ribbon spirally wound polymer conduit and method of forming, wherein a helical reinforcing bead is interposed adjacent overlapping layers of ribbon. Further, a method of continuously forming spirally wound conduit wherein a sacrificial layer, preferably having a different base polymer to that of the conduit, is first applied to the former before the conduit is formed overtop.
US09717873B2 Rotating electrical connector ADN respiratory gas delivery system employing same
A connection assembly for rotateably and electrically coupling an accessory to a main device includes a housing portion, a rotatable port assembly, and a wire assembly. An end of the port assembly is coupled to the accessory. The port assembly includes an electrical connector member having a first connector end electrically coupled to the accessory. The wire assembly has an electrical wire member having a first end electrically coupled to a second connector end of the electrical connector member and a second end electrically coupled to a power supply. The wire member is spooled around the port assembly and encased in a chamber defined between the housing portion and the port assembly. Rotation of the port assembly in opposite directions causes the electrical wire member to spool more and less tightly around the port assembly without causing pinching or tangling of wires.
US09717864B2 Dispense interface with lockout element
A dispense interface for use with a drug delivery device with an inner body and with a lockout element. The lockout element is coupled to the inner body movable from a receptive condition to a locked condition, wherein in the receptive condition the dispense interface is attachable to the drug delivery device. In the locked condition, the dispense interface is not-attachable to the drug delivery device. The lockout element is configured to move from the receptive condition to the locked condition when said dispense interface is attached to and detached from said drug delivery device.
US09717861B2 Syringe housing to facilitate medication injection
A syringe (211) includes a syringe body (217) for receiving and administering a medicament. A needle (215) is received by the syringe body (217). A needle adjusting member (221) is movably disposed on the syringe body (217) between first and second positions. When the needle adjusting member (221) is in the first position, the needle (215) has a first length adapted to draw medicament into the syringe body (217). When the needle adjusting member (221) is in the second position, the needle (215) has a second length for injecting the medicament.
US09717859B2 Medication delivery device
A medication delivery device and/or dosing mechanisms suitable for use in medication delivery devices, in particular in pen-type injectors, preferably having a dose setting system and a drive device enabling the administration of a medicinal product from a single- or multi-dose medication cartridge.
US09717853B2 Cylinder-piston unit with adhesive disc I
A cylinder-piston unit of a needle-free injector, with at least one cylinder accommodating an injection solution, at least one piston, and an adhesive coating arranged in the area of the free end face of the cylinder. The cylinder has a bottom portion, on which a discharge tube is arranged. An adhesive disc, which is displaceable in the direction of the center line of the cylinder-piston unit between an installation position and an application position, is arranged on the discharge tube and/or on the bottom portion. The adhesive disc has an adhesive coating on each of the two end faces. In the installation position, the discharge tube can be sealed off in the adhesive disc. In the application position, the front edge of the discharge nozzle lies in the plane of the front adhesive coating or protrudes beyond this plane by at least 0.5 mm. A needle-free cylinder-piston unit of an injector whose discharge system is suitable for safely penetrating the outer layers of skin, covered by the term “dermis”, in order to convey the injection solution into or under the skin.
US09717845B2 Geofencing for medical devices
A medical therapy system for delivering at least two therapies based on a geographic location of the medical therapy system is disclosed. The medical therapy system includes an infusion pump having a case that contains a processor, memory, a drive mechanism, a reservoir, a radio, and a sensor suite. The sensor suite includes a global positioning system (GPS) receiver to determine a location of the infusion pump. The processor receives the location of the infusion pump and executes first instructions stored in the memory. The processor executes second instructions stored in the memory only when the location of the infusion pump is within a safe zone defined around specified GPS coordinates.
US09717832B2 Axial flow rotor with downstream bearing wash flow
An implantable blood pump includes an impeller rotatable about a rotational axis, having a body with a bottom surface at a downstream end and a central opening centered about the axis extending at least partially through the body from the bottom surface. A projecting element, e.g., a shaft, extends from below the bottom surface into or through the opening to support the impeller. The body can be configured to drive a primary downstream blood flow along an exterior of the body to beyond a peripheral edge of the bottom surface, and to provide a secondary downstream blood flow through the opening and along the bottom surface to beyond the peripheral edge, the secondary flow improving washing of a bearing surface.
US09717826B2 Coatings for preventing balloon damage to polymer coated stents
A medical assembly is disclosed comprises a stent and a catheter having a balloon, wherein the coefficient of friction and/or the adhesion at the stent/balloon interface are reduced.
US09717824B2 Multi-component joining of plastic preparations in order to produce medical devices with functional surfaces
A process for producing medical devices with functional surfaces, e.g., ceramic implants having bone-affine surfaces, and to medical devices produced in such a manner.
US09717822B2 Bone matrix compositions and methods
Osteoinductive compositions and implants having increased biological activities, and methods for their production, are provided. The biological activities that may be increased include, but are not limited to, bone forming; bone healing; osteoinductive activity, osteogenic activity, chondrogenic activity, wound healing activity, neurogenic activity, contraction-inducing activity, mitosis-inducing activity, differentiation-inducing activity, chemotactic activity, angiogenic or vasculogenic activity, and exocytosis or endocytosis-inducing activity. In one embodiment, a method for producing an osteoinductive composition comprises providing partially demineralized bone, treating the partially demineralized bone to disrupt the collagen structure of the bone. In another embodiment, an implantable osteoinductive and osteoconductive composition comprises partially demineralized bone, wherein the collagen structure of the bone has been disrupted, and, optionally, a tissue-derived extract.
US09717813B2 Electrical heating device for evaporating volatile substances with adjustable evaporation rate
An electrical heating evaporator for evaporating active substances such as perfumes and/or insecticides, in which the evaporation rate regulator includes an electrical heater resistor for which the power supplied is regulated through a potentiometer constructed on a printed circuit board. The evaporation rate can be adjusted for a wide variety of types of chemical substances, without the need of substantially modifying the design of the device.
US09717806B2 Method for detecting cancer using ICG fluorescence method
A method of detecting an accessory cancer lesion, comprising an administration step wherein indocyanine green is administered to a living body, an irradiation step wherein a target organ suspected of having cancer is surgically exposed and irradiated with excitation light of indocyanine green, an imaging step wherein a near-infrared fluorescence intensity distribution image from the excited indocyanine green in the target organ is obtained, and an identification step wherein an area having the near-infrared fluorescence in the intensity distribution image, excluding the area detected in preoperative examination or intraoperative macroscopic observation, is identified as an accessory cancer lesion.
US09717801B2 Glycogen-based cationic polymers
The present invention relates to glycogen-based cationic polymers, to complexes of the said cationic polymers with anionic compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the said complexes, and to the use of the said complexes for delivering or transfecting the said anionic compounds to a specific pharmacological target, such as, for instance an organ, a tissue or a cell.
US09717792B2 Combination therapy for cancer using HSP27 inhibitor and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors or anti-folates
Combination therapy for cancer makes use of HSP27 inhibitors and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors or etiolates.
US09717782B2 Methods for producing an immune response to tuberculosis
Methods for producing an immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) are disclosed herein. In several examples, the immune response is a protective immune response. In additional embodiments, methods are disclosed for inhibiting an infection with Mtb, preventing an infection with Mtb, or treating an infection with Mtb. Pharmaceutical compositions for the inhibition, prevention and/or treatment of tuberculosis are also disclosed.
US09717779B2 Implantable matrix having optimum ligand concentrations
Implantable matrices and methods are provided. The matrices are configured to fit at or near a target tissue site, the matrices comprise biodegradable materials and ligands bound to the matrices and are configured to bind receptors and allow influx of cells into the implantable matrices, wherein the ratio of ligands to receptors is from about 1.5 to about 0.5.
US09717774B2 Immunotherapy against several tumors including gastrointestinal and gastric cancer
The present invention relates to peptides, nucleic acids and cells for use in immunotherapeutic methods. In particular, the present invention relates to the immunotherapy of cancer. The present invention furthermore relates to tumor-associated cytotoxic T cell (CTL) peptide epitopes, alone or in combination with other tumor-associated peptides that serve as active pharmaceutical ingredients of vaccine compositions that stimulate anti-tumor immune responses. The present invention relates to 95 novel peptide sequences and their variants derived from HLA class I molecules of human tumor cells that can be used in vaccine compositions for eliciting anti-tumor immune responses.
US09717766B2 Process for enhancing the viable counts of lactic acid bacteria and useful compositions thereof
The present invention disclosed herein describes (i) the growth promotional activity of natural plant based fibres on Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856; (ii) the combination of natural plant based fibres and Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 to inhibit Gram Negative pathogenic bacteria and (iii) the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) by Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 using plant based natural fibres.
US09717765B2 Method of identifying a biologically-active composition from a biofilm
The subject invention provides materials and methods that effectively support innate immunity and/or disperse pathogenic biofilms using readily available, nontoxic, natural substances, while supporting restoration of normal microbiotic homeostasis. In one embodiment, the subject invention provides anti-biofilm compositions comprising one or more probiotic organisms, anti-microbial honey, and other ingredients such as prebiotic compounds, other hive products, green tea derivatives, other plant derivatives, and vitamin D3.
US09717759B2 Modification of CXCR4 using engineered zinc finger proteins
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for modulating activity of CXCR4 genes, for example using zinc finger transcription factors (ZF-TFs) or zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) comprising a zinc finger protein and a cleavage domain or cleavage half-domain. Polynucleotides encoding ZF-TFs or ZFNs, vectors comprising polynucleotides encoding ZF-TFs or ZFNs and cells comprising polynucleotides encoding ZF-TFs or ZFNs and/or cells comprising ZF-TF or ZFNs are also provided.
US09717758B2 High-affinity DMF5 T cell receptor (TCR) variants
High-affinity variants of the DMF5 TCR, and methods of use thereof for the treatment and imaging of cancer in a patient.
US09717757B1 Composition and method to treat and prevent muscle cramping
A method of treating muscle cramps and muscle pain, and to relieve swelling in and around muscles after strenuous physical activity is provided, whereby an aqueous composition is applied topically to the skin overlying the affected muscles, the composition has dissolved, suspended or dispersed therein (a) an anti-inflammatory agent; (b) an agent that stimulates or promotes cell growth; and (c) an agent that enhances or stimulates the skin's immune system, wherein components (a), (b) and (c) are different.
US09717751B2 Chitin or derivatives thereof for the prevention and/or treatment of parasitoses
The subject matter of the present invention is the use of chitin or a derivative of chitin for preventing and/or treating parasitoses, and in particular cryptosporidiosis. The present invention also pertains to a composition that comprises at least one base agent chosen from among chitin or a derivative of chitin and at least one secondary agent chosen from among an agent for stimulating immunity and an antiparasite agent, as well as the use of same for preventing and/or treating parasitoses, in particular cryptosporidiosis.
US09717743B2 Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use of 4-pregenen-11β-17-21-triol-3,20-dione derivatives
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising 4-pregenen-11β-17-21-triol-3,20-dione derivatives, and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of the glucocorticoid receptors (GR) and/or the mineralocorticoid receptors (MR). The invention relates specifically to the use of these compounds and their pharmaceutical compositions to treat ocular conditions associated with the glucocorticoid receptors (GR) and/or the mineralocorticoid receptors (MR).
US09717737B2 Vacuolin-1 as an inhibitor of autophagy and endosomal trafficking and the use thereof for inhibiting tumor progression
Methods of treating autophagy related diseases, e.g. cancer and malaria, using novel autophagy inhibiting agents are described.
US09717735B2 Tricyclic lactams for use in HSPC-sparing treatments for RB-positive abnormal cellular proliferation
This invention is in the area of tricyclic lactam compounds for and methods of treating selected Rb-positive cancers and other Rb-positive abnormal cellular proliferative disorders while minimizing the deleterious effects on healthy cells, for example healthy Hematopoietic Stem Cells and Progenitor Cells (HSPCs), associated with current treatment modalities. In one aspect, treatment of select Rb-positive cancers is disclosed using specific compounds disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the compounds described herein act as selective cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK 4/6) inhibitors when administered to subjects.
US09717715B2 Method of combination therapy using an anti-C-Met antibody
A method for prevention or treatment of a cancer, comprising co-administering (a) an anti-c-Met antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, and (b) at least one of lapatinib, regorafenib, vemurafenib or a combination thereof, to a subject in need thereof, and a pharmaceutical composition comprising (a) an anti-c-Met antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, and (b) at least one of lapatinib, regorafenib, vemurafenib, or a combination thereof are provided.
US09717713B2 Benzimidazole derivatives: preparation and pharmaceutical applications
The present invention relates to hydroxamate compounds which are inhibitors of histone deacetylase. More particularly, the present invention relates to benzimidazole containing compounds and methods for their preparation. These compounds may be useful as medicaments for the treatment of proliferative disorders as well as other diseases involving, relating to or associated with dysregulation of histone deacetylase (HDAC).
US09717709B2 Substituted pyrazoles as heat shock transcription factor activators
The present invention relates to HSF activating compounds, methods for their discovery, and their research and therapeutic uses, as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, chelates, non-covalent complexes, prodrugs, mixtures (including both R and S enantiomeric forms and racemic mixtures thereof), and pharmaceutical Formulations thereof. In particular, the present invention provides compounds capable of facilitating HSF1 homotrimerization, and methods of using such compounds as therapeutic agents to treat a number of conditions associated with irregular HSF1 activity.
US09717705B2 Anaplerotic therapy of huntington disease and other polyglutamine diseases
The present invention relates to a method for treating and/or preventing Huntington disease and other polyglutamine diseases, comprising the step of administering an effective amount of a precursor of propionyl-CoA to an individual in need thereof.
US09717703B2 Emulsion and emulsion preconcentrate compositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids and uses thereof are disclosed
Emulsion and emulsion preconcentrate compositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids and uses thereof are disclosed.
US09717698B2 Transdermal therapeutic system with high rate of utilization of active substance and dosing accuracy
A transdermal therapeutic system for administering at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient, including a polymer-based layer which is remote from the skin with a rate of application of at least 80 g/m2, and an adhesive skin-contact layer which is adjacent to the polymer-based layer remote from the skin and is based on acrylate copolymers with a rate of application of not more than 50 g/m2. The at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient is present in both the polymer-based layer remote from the skin and the skin-contact layer.
US09717694B2 Peptide/particle delivery systems
Polymeric nanoparticles, microparticles, and gels for delivering cargo, e.g., a therapeutic agent, such as a peptide, to a target, e.g., a cell, and their use for treating diseases, including angiogenesis-dependent diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and cancer, are disclosed. Methods for formulating, stabilizing, and administering single peptides or combinations of peptides via polymeric particle and gel delivery systems also are disclosed.
US09717692B2 Effervescent formulations comprising dexketoprofen
The present invention relates to water-soluble formulations comprising the active agent dexketoprofen and to a process for production of said formulations. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical formulations comprising dexketoprofen which is used in symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate pains such as musculoskeletal pains, dysmenorrhoea, toothache, post-operative pains. The formulations are characterized in being in effervescent form.
US09717691B2 Pharmaceutical containing a hormone combination having a contraceptive effect and an insulin sensitizer
The present invention relates to a medicament in the form of daily units, which contain an active ingredient combination consisting of a hormone combination with contraceptive action consisting of at least one oestrogen selected from the group consisting of estradiol and ethinyl estradiol and at least one gestagen selected from the group consisting of chlormadinone acetate, 3-β-OH-chlormadinone acetate, 3-α-OH-chlormadinone acetate, 3-α-acetoxy-chlormadinone acetate and 3-β-acetoxy-chlormadinone acetate, and at least one insulin sensitiser and which are combined to provide a dosage form with daily units which only contain an insulin sensitiser as the sole active ingredient, and to the use of this dosage form for preventing or treating pathological disorders caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and for simultaneous contraception.
US09717678B2 Delivery systems for improving oral bioavailability of Fenobam, its hydrates, and salts
A delivery system for administration to a patient of Fenobam, its hydrates, and salts optimizes solubility and dissolution properties of Fenobam, its hydrates, and salts using either microemulsions, solid dispersions, cyclodextrin, gastroretentives, enteric coatings, and sustained delivery techniques to provide a vehicle for oral administration of these drugs.
US09717677B2 Oriental medicinal collagen food and manufacturing method thereof
Oriental medicinal collagen food and manufacturing method of the oriental medicinal collagen food for skin beauty enhancement are provided. The manufacturing method including: a first process including: removing claws and scales from chicken feet, and preparing dandelion, angelica gigas, and pueraria root; a second process including: performing high-pressure pasteurization for the chicken feet obtained in the first process; a third process including: preparing dandelion extract by heating the dandelion in a bag; a fourth process including: obtaining Gyepogyo by heating and fermenting the pasteurized chicken feet and the dandelion extract in a pot; and a fifth process including: obtaining extract and distillate from a distillation of a mixture comprising the Gyepogyo, the angelica gigas, and the pueraria root.
US09717671B2 Composition for improving skin, hair and coat health containing flavanones
The present invention pertains to a composition for preventing, decreasing and/or treating skin and hair/coat disorders, such as is effected by inflammatory reactions, environmental factors, ageing or cancer. In particular, the present invention relates to the use of flavanones compounds or their derivatives in nutritional, cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions for improvement of human or pet animal skin and coat conditions.
US09717669B2 Topical sanitizing formulations and uses thereof
Several embodiments disclosed herein relate to formulations having antimicrobial and/or sanitizing effects, and uses of the same. In particular, the formulations and methods of using same provide, in several embodiments, an immediate and a persistent antimicrobial effect against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
US09717668B2 Methods for treating relaxed hair
Methods and kits for treating hair or preventing damage in the relaxing of hair are disclosed herein. Hair that is damaged during a relaxing treatment with hydroxide-containing relaxing agents, can be treated with formulations containing one or more active agents. The active agent formulations can be applied simultaneously with the hair relaxing formulation, or optionally applied immediately following application of the relaxing formulation, to reduce damage and breakage. Use of the active agent formulation along with a relaxing treatment can be used to control the level of curl achieved or retained in the relaxed hair, as compared to the natural amount of curl in the untreated hair.
US09717662B2 Oral care compositions
Described herein are oral care compositions comprising an effective amount of aluminum chlorohydrate suspended in a carrier for preventing, reducing or inhibiting dentinal hypersensitivity, the aluminum chlorohydrate exhibiting a SEC chromatogram having a SEC Peak 4 to Peak 3 intensity ratio of at least 7 and a Peak 4 intensity greater than a Peak 5 intensity; and methods of using the same.
US09717661B2 Methods for cleaning and remineralizing teeth
Methods for use in selectively conditioning and remineralizing teeth. An exemplary method comprises the steps of applying a conditioning composition to one or more of a person's teeth, and separately applying a remineralizing composition to the person's teeth. The conditioning composition includes a conditioning agent, and the remineralizing composition includes a remineralizing agent comprising calcium ions and/or fluoride ions. The conditioning composition may be applied prior to or after application of the remineralizing composition. In one embodiment, both the conditioning composition and the remineralizing composition include different remineralizing ions (e.g., one including calcium, one including fluoride).
US09717654B2 Electronic pill box prefill system including a blister pack with a capacitive sensor
An electronic pill box having a housing with a base and grid and into which a blister pack is selectively engaged. The blister pack includes a plurality of vials prefilled with medication and sealed with a cover imprinted with pertinent information. Each vial is received in a chamber in the base having an LED and a sensor for determining whether medication has been removed therefrom. The LED and sensor are operatively engaged with a microprocessor including programming for dispensing medication from the pill box. An alert is issued if medication is not removed from an illuminated vial after a predetermined time interval. When all medication has been dispensed therefrom, the blister pack is replaced with another prefilled blister pack A card with patient information thereon may be provided on the prefilled blister pack and is detached and stored in the housing prior to loading the blister pack therein.
US09717642B2 Compression garment apparatus having baseline pressure
A compression garment apparatus including a compression garment and a pressurizer. The pressurizer intermittently pressurizes a therapeutic bladder on the compression garment and maintains a baseline pressure in the therapeutic bladder to maintain the therapeutic bladder in position with respect to a target compression zone on a body part on which the garment is worn. The baseline pressure is adjusted in response to sensed physical characteristics.
US09717635B2 Absorbent medical accessory
An absorbent medical accessory ensures that the skin around a medical tube remains dry. The accessory includes an upper pad having a top side, a bottom side and a perimeter edge extending between the top and bottom sides. The bottom side is comprised of an absorbent material. The upper pad has an opening extending through the top and bottom sides. A lower pad is coupled to the upper pad and has a top surface, a bottom surface and a peripheral edge extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The lower pad is comprised of an absorbent material. The lower pad has a hole extending through the top and bottom surfaces. The hole is alignable with the opening such that a medical tube is configured for being extended through each of the opening and the hole for retaining the medical tube against each of the upper and lower pads.
US09717617B2 Bypass device, support frame for bypass device, and method
A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.
US09717604B2 Spinal implant apparatus and methods
A method of inserting and positioning an intervertebral spacer is provided. The spacer includes a longitudinal axis, an on-axis interface coincident with or parallel to the longitudinal axis, and an off-axis interface angled to the longitudinal axis. The spacer's front end may be curved. The method may include inserting the spacer into the disc space utilizing a tool to engage an on-axis interface and then to engage one or more of the off-axis interfaces, which may be used for further modification of the spacer. The tool is moved substantially along a single insertion direction, which may be substantially parallel to a posterior-anterior axis of the disc space. The method may result in the longitudinal axis of the spacer being perpendicular to the insertion direction, or substantially parallel to a medial-lateral axis of the disc space. The spacer may also be positioned in an anterior aspect of the disc space.
US09717600B1 Bioabsorbable anchoring member for insertion into a vertebral body
Some embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus that (1) delivers a fusion member between two vertebral bodies after at least a portion of the fibrocartilaginous disc between the vertebral bodies has been removed, and (2) affixes the fusion member to the vertebral bodies. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes (1) a fusion member that is delivered and positioned between the vertebral bodies, (2) a delivery mechanism that delivers and positions the fusion member between the vertebral bodies, and (3) an anchoring member that affixes the fusion member to the vertebral bodies.
US09717594B2 Methods of valve delivery on a beating heart
A delivery system and method for delivering a prosthetic heart valve to the aortic valve. The system includes a delivery catheter having a steering mechanism thereon for delivering a balloon-expandable prosthetic heart valve to the aortic valve through an introducer passing into the left ventricle through its apex. The introducer may have a more floppy distal section than a proximal section to reduce trauma to the heart wall while preserving good operating field stability. The delivery catheter includes a deflecting segment just proximal to a distal balloon to facilitate positioning of the prosthetic heart valve in the proper orientation. A trigger in a catheter handle may be coupled to a deflection wire that actuates the deflecting segment, while a slider in the handle controls retraction of a valve pusher. The prosthetic heart valve may be installed over the existing calcified leaflets, and a pre-dilation valvuloplasty procedure may also be utilized.
US09717591B2 Prosthetic valve for replacing mitral valve
A prosthetic apparatus for implantation in a native mitral valve includes a main body for placement within the native mitral annulus. The main body is compressible to a radially compressed state for delivery into the heart and is self-expandable from the compressed state to a radially expanded state for implantation. A valve structure is mounted within a lumen of the main body and preferably forms three leaflets made of pericardium. An atrial sealing member is disposed along an atrial portion of the main body and ventricular anchors are coupled to a ventricular portion of the main body. The atrial sealing member impedes the flow of blood between the main body and the native annulus. The ventricular anchors are positioned outside the main body for capturing native mitral valve leaflets between the main body and the ventricular anchors.
US09717586B2 Adjustable and fixed assembled bone-tendon-bone graft
The present invention has multiple aspects relating to a bone-tendon-bone graft and components thereof. Embodiments of the present invention comprise an intermediate bone block that is used to adjustably secure soft tissue (e.g., tendon) in a patient. The present invention further relates to an assembled bone-tendon-bone graft suitable for implantation in humans comprising the intermediate bone block and a length of soft tissue. In a preferred embodiment, a bone-tendon-bone graft comprises a length of soft tissue (e.g., tendon) extending from a first assembled bone block to a second bone block and then doubles back to said first assembled bone block. Depending upon the embodiment, the second bone block fixedly or slideably attaches to the length of soft tissue and facilitates it doubling back to the first assembled bone block.
US09717580B2 Pelvic floor implant system and method of assembly
Surgical articles, implants and components suitable creating composite slings are described. Novel procedures for assembling and utilizing composite slings are also detailed.
US09717579B2 Medical device comprising an artificial contractile structure
A medical device includes an artificial contractile structure which may be advantageously used to assist the functioning of a hollow organ, an artificial contractile structure including at least one contractile element (100) adapted to contract an organ, in such way that the contractile element (100) is in a resting or in an activated position, at least one actuator designed to activate the contractile structure, and at least one source of energy for powering the actuator. The ratio “current which is needed to maintain the contractile element in its activated position and in its resting position/current which is needed to change the position of the contractile element” is less than 1/500, preferably less than 1/800, and more preferably less than 1/1000. The medical device further includes elements for reducing corrosion of the medical device.
US09717573B2 In-situ dental restoration process and apparatus
A dental restoration method that eliminates time-consuming, labor-intensive steps conventionally needed to fabricate molds, and thereby facilitates dental restorations in a shorter time, while reducing the discomfort and embarrassment sometimes associated with provisional restorations involves scanning an existing dental structure to generate a three-dimensional digital model of the existing dental structure, generating a three-dimensional digital model corresponding with a planned dental structure, and using an additive manufacturing process and apparatus (e.g., a 3-D printer) to fabricate the planned dental structure directly on the existing dental structure.
US09717564B2 Biopsy devices and related methods
Apparatus and methods provided to remove biopsy specimens from bone and/or associated bone marrow. A powered driver may rotate a biopsy needle at an optimum speed to obtain the biopsy specimen. A thread or a groove may be disposed on interior portions of the biopsy needle. The thread or groove may engage a biopsy specimen and enhance removal of a bone marrow core from cancellous bone. Manufacturing procedures are provided for bonding a single helical thread with interior portions of the biopsy needle. The apparatus may also include a biopsy sample ejector and/or ejector funnel. A biopsy needle set may include a cannula and a trocar with respective tips having optimum configurations, dimensions and/or orientations relative to each other to optimize penetration of a bone and/or bone marrow with minimum patient trauma and enhanced reliability of obtaining a biopsy specimen.
US09717559B2 Catheter with adjustable arcuate distal section
A catheter includes an elongated body, a distal assembly with a shape-memory member defining a generally circular form, and a control handle adapted to actuate a deflection puller wire for deflecting a portion of the elongated body, and a contraction wire for contracting the generally circular form. The generally circular form which carries at least one ring electrode has an off-edge configuration relative to the elongated body such that a longitudinal axis of the elongated body does not intersect the circumference of the circular form and the generally circular form spirals about the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. Moreover, the circular form can have an on-axis configuration such that the longitudinal axis of the elongated body is axially aligned with a central longitudinal axis of the circular form, or an off-axis configuration such that these axes are axially offset from each other. In a more detailed embodiment, the catheter has a distal assembly with a helical form or a crescent form carrying a plurality of irrigated ablation ring electrodes and a plurality of smaller ring electrodes adapted for impedance recording or PV potential recording. A support member with shape memory extends through the distal assembly to provide the helical or crescent form. The support member has a varying stiffness along its length, for example, a decreasing stiffness toward a distal end of the support member. The support member can also be hollow so that it can receive a mandrel whose stiffness is greater than that of the support member.
US09717553B2 Braid with integrated signal conductors
A method, including incorporating a conducting wire into a tubular braid consisting of a multiplicity of supporting wires, and covering the tubular braid with a sheath. The method further includes identifying a location of the conducting wire within the tubular braid and attaching an electrode through the sheath to the conducting wire at the location.
US09717552B2 Electrosurgical generator
This invention relates to high-frequency ablation of tissue in the body using a cooled high-frequency electrode connected to a high frequency generator including a computer graphic control system and an automatic controller for control the signal output from the generator, and adapted to display on a real time graphic display a measured parameter related to the ablation process and visually monitor the variation of the parameter of the signal output that is controlled by the controller during the ablation process. In one example, one or more measured parameters are displayed simultaneously to visually interpret the relation of their variation and values. In one example, the displayed one or more parameters can be taken from the list of measured voltage, current, power, impedance, electrode temperature, and tissue temperature related to the ablation process. The graphic display gives the clinician an instantaneous and intuitive feeling for the dynamics and stability of the ablation process for safety and control. This invention relates to monitoring and controlling multiple ground pads to optimally carry return currents during high-frequency tissue ablation, and to prevent of ground-pad skin burns. This invention relates to the use of ultrasound imaging intraoperatively during a tissue ablation procedure. This invention relates to the use of nerve stimulation and blocking during a tissue ablation procedure.
US09717550B2 Multi-circuit seal plates
An end effector assembly adapted to couple to an electrosurgical instrument, the end effector assembly including a pair of opposing jaw members pivotably attached about a pivot member and moveable from a first spaced position to a second grasping position. Each jaw member includes a jaw housing and a seal plate formed on an inner surface of the jaw member including at least two seal plate segments extending along a substantial portion of the length of the jaw members. An insulating member is positioned between adjacent seal plate segments and configured to provide electrical isolation between adjacent seal plate segments. Each sealing plate segment is adapted to selectively connect to an electrosurgical energy source and form part of an electrosurgical energy delivery circuit.
US09717549B2 Surgical forceps
A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members movable between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. A knife assembly having a cutting blade disposed at a distal end thereof is also provided. The knife assembly is translatable relative to the end effector assembly between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the cutting blade extends between the jaw members to cut tissue grasped therebetween. The knife assembly includes a proximal component and a first distal component that includes the cutting blade. The proximal and first distal components are removably coupled to one another to facilitate replacement of the first distal component while the end effector assembly remains in a substantially assembled condition, i.e., without requiring substantial disassembly of the end effector assembly.
US09717548B2 Electrode for use in a bipolar electrosurgical instrument
A end-effector assembly includes opposing first and second jaw assemblies, at least one of the first and second assemblies movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw assemblies are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to at least a second position closer to one another wherein the jaw assemblies cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The first jaw assembly includes a first housing and a first electrically-conductive tissue-engaging structure associated with at least a portion of the first housing. The second jaw assembly includes a second housing and a second electrically-conductive tissue-engaging structure associated with at least a portion of the second housing. The end-effector assembly includes a dissector electrode coupled along at least a portion of a lateral side portion of either one of the first housing or the second housing. The dissector electrode is electrically-isolated from the first and second electrically-conductive tissue-engaging structures.
US09717546B2 Cryotherapy device and method for the treatment of cervical precancerous lesions
A device for providing a cryotherapy ablation treatment includes a piping assembly and a snow horn adapted to create a spray of snow from a pressurized source of a low-temperature liquid, a tubular applicator for collecting a mass of snow at a prescribed density that is sufficient to allow the mass to serve as the needed, low temperature, thermal reservoir for the device after the applicator's distal end has been disconnected from the snow horn end so that it can to be used during the treatment process, and an applicator tip adapted to allow it to connect to the applicator's distal end and be used to treat those specific locations which are to receive this treatment.
US09717542B2 Systems and methods for internal bone fixation
Internal bone fixation devices and methods for using the devices for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. A device for use in repairing a fractured bone includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of at least one reinforcing material and an inner lumen for passage of a light source; a conformable member releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the conformable member moves from a deflated state to an inflated state when the at least one reinforcing material is delivered to the conformable member; and an adapter releasably engaging the proximal end of the delivery catheter for receiving the light source and the at least one reinforcing material.
US09717532B2 Articulating spinal rod system
An adjustable articulating spinal rod system including a first elongated element secured to a first bone, a second elongated element secured to the spine, and an articulating joint connecting the first and second elongated elements. The articulating joint including a first movable joint, a second movable joint, and at least one locking mechanism. The first movable joint is coupled to the first elongated element and the second movable joint which is also coupled the second elongate element. The first and second movable joints are configured to allow polyaxial movement and rotation of the first elongated element with respect to the second elongated element. The at least one locking mechanism immobilizes the first and second movable joints in the locked position to secure the first elongate element in a position relative to the second elongate element and allow movement and rotation in an unlocked position.
US09717522B2 Multi-functional surgical access system
A surgical access system comprises a wound retractor comprising an outer anchor, an inner anchor, and a flexible, tubular sheath extending therebetween. Embodiments of the outer anchor comprise an outer ring rotatable around an annular axis thereof, thereby rolling the sheath therearound when retracting an incision or opening in a body wall. The sheath comprises a plurality of fibers or strands that improve the abrasion and puncture resistance thereof. Consequently, the surgical access system is useful in procedures in which damage to the sheath is likely, for example, orthopedic hip replacement, and spinal procedures. In some embodiments, the sheath tapers from the outer ring to the inner ring.
US09717519B2 Methods and apparatus for treating embolism
A method and apparatus for treating a clot in the blood vessel of a patient, and particularly the treatment of a pulmonary embolism is disclosed. The treatment includes restoring flow through the clot followed by clot removal, either partially or substantially completely. The clot treatment device is expandable into the blood vessel and may contain radial extensions that assist in restoring flow as well as in removing clot material.
US09717517B2 Wrist assembly for articulating laparoscopic surgical instruments
An articulating laparoscopic instrument including a handle, an outer shaft, an end effector, and a wrist assembly. The wrist assembly connects the end effector to the shaft and includes torque and articulation mechanisms. The torque mechanism includes a plurality of links disposed over the rod and connected with one another in a pivotable yet rotationally locked fashion. The articulation mechanism includes a plurality of articulation member disposed over the rod to collectively define a deflection section. The links freely rotate relative to the articulation members, with the rod and links collectively bending in response to a change in shape of the deflection section.
US09717503B2 Electrolytic detachment for implant delivery systems
Detachment of an implant from a delivery assembly can be electrolytic. A distal end of a core member and a proximal end of an implant can be joined together by one or more weld joints disposed axially between the distal end and the proximal end, the one or more weld joints being further disposed at a radially outermost periphery of the distal end and a radially outermost periphery of the proximal end. Delivery of a detachable implant as described herein can include advancing, to a target location within a patient, an implant having a proximal end and being connected to a distal end of a core member by one or more weld joints, as described above, and separating the implant from the core member by corroding the one or more weld joints.
US09717499B2 Apparatus for applying a band to a haemorrhoid
A magazine (200;400) for dispensing at least one band (106) onto the tip of a haemorrhoid ligator (100), the magazine (200; 400) comprising at least one expander receiving a respective band, the expander being arranged to expand the band and push it onto the tip (104) of the ligator (100) as the tip (104) is inserted into the magazine (200; 400). The only action required by the medical practitioner to load the band (106) onto the ligator (100) from the magazine (200;400) is to push the tip (104) of the ligator (100) inside the magazine (200; 400) whereupon the band (106) is expanded, pushed into place and is ready for immediate discharge. Therefore the magazine (200; 400) provides a medical practitioner with an easy way to load a haemorrhoid ligator (100).
US09717498B2 Surgical stapling apparatus
A surgical stapling apparatus (stapler) is provided. A tool assembly includes first and second jaw members. A cartridge assembly includes an actuation sled and a slide. A drive member having a working end is configured to translate through the tool assembly when the first and second jaw members are in a closed configuration. A lock assembly including a latch is movable from a locked position to an unlocked position. The latch is urged to the locked position to engage the working end to prevent distal translation of the drive member through the tool assembly. The slide is configured to move the latch from the locked position to the unlocked position upon installation of an unspent cartridge assembly onto the first jaw member. The slide is movable by the drive member upon actuation of the stapling apparatus to allow the latch to move back to the locked position.
US09717491B2 Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to bone
A method and apparatus for securing a suture to bone can include grasping a first suture portion with a grasping member on a positioning tool. The first suture portion can be located into a first cannulation defined in the positioning tool. A cutting member can be advanced through a second cannulation defined on the positioning tool and out through a distal opening defined on the positioning tool. A first bone hole can be cut into the bone with the cutting member. A flexible member advancing tool can be advanced through the first cannulation. The first suture portion can be urged out of the distal opening and into the first bone hole.
US09717489B2 Surgical retractor
A retractor (10) for use in a surgical intervention in the area of an eye socket is described. The retractor (10) comprises two planar retraction elements (26, 28), which are movable relative to each other between an insertion position with a first surface coverage and a retraction position with a second surface coverage AI, which is smaller than the first surface coverage. A spring element (20) provides pretensioning, which presses the retraction elements (26, 28) into the retraction position.
US09717488B2 Devices and systems for inverting and closing the left atrial appendage
Devices, systems, and methods for inverting and closing the left atrial appendage. In at least one embodiment of a method for closing a left atrial appendage of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of inverting a distal portion of a left atrial appendage, and constraining the inverted distal portion of the left atrial appendage using a device configured to fit within an interior of the left atrial appendage.
US09717486B2 Apparatus for pitch and yaw rotation
The present invention is directed to a tool having a wrist mechanism that provides pitch and yaw rotation in such a way that the tool has no singularity in roll, pitch, and yaw. A positively positionable multi-disk wrist mechanism includes a plurality of disks or vertebrae stacked in series. Each vertebra is configured to rotate in pitch or in yaw with respect to each neighboring vertebra. Actuation cables are used to manipulate and control movement of the vertebrae. In specific embodiments, some of the cables are distal cables that extend from a proximal vertebra through one or more intermediate vertebrae to a distal vertebra, while the remaining cables are medial cables that extend from the proximal vertebra to one or more of the intermediate vertebrae. The cables are actuated by a pivoted plate cable actuator mechanism. In specific embodiments, the actuator mechanism includes a plurality of small radius holes or grooves for receiving the medial cables and a plurality of large radius holes or grooves for receiving the distal cables. The holes or grooves restrain the medial cables to a small radius of motion and the distal cables to a large radius of motion, so that the medial cables to the medial vertebra move only a fraction of the amount as the distal cables to the distal vertebra, so as to achieve precise control and manipulation of the vertebrae.
US09717463B2 Biological information measurement method and apparatus with variable cutoff frequency low pass filter
A biological information measurement apparatus includes a phase/frequency comparison unit that outputs a deviation signal based on a phase difference between a biological signal and an oscillation signal; a loop filter; and a voltage controlled oscillation unit that generates the oscillation signal in accordance with the deviation signal that has passed through the loop filter. The apparatus further includes a CPU that estimates a SN ratio of the biological signal and analyzes a phase difference/frequency difference between the biological signal and the oscillation signal. A variable low pass filter is provided that selectively blocks a signal of a predetermined frequency band contained in the deviation signal that has passed through the loop filter and the CPU changes a cutoff frequency of the variable low pass filter based on the SN ratio and the phase difference/frequency difference.
US09717462B2 Biological information measurement method and apparatus with variable loop filter
A biological information measurement apparatus includes a phase/frequency comparison unit that outputs a deviation signal based on a phase difference between a biological signal and an oscillation signal; a variable loop filter that varies a cutoff frequency and a phase margin and that selectively blocks a signal of a predetermined frequency band contained in the deviation signal; and a voltage controlled oscillation unit that generates the oscillation signal in accordance with the deviation signal that has passed through the variable loop filter. The apparatus further includes a CPU that estimates a SN ratio of the biological signal and analyzes a phase difference/frequency difference between the biological signal outputted from the comparison unit and the oscillation signal. The CPU further changes a constant of the variable loop filter based on the SN ratio and the phase difference/frequency difference.
US09717461B2 Systems, devices, and methods for tracking and compensating for patient motion during a medical imaging scan
A motion compensation system for tracking and compensating for patient motion during a medical imaging scan comprises an optical marker comprising an optically visible pattern and a mounting portion; a first optical detector positioned to digitally image the optically visible pattern along a first line of sight; a second optical detector positioned to digitally image the optically visible pattern along a second line of sight; a tracking engine configured to determine a pose of the object in six degrees of freedom by analyzing images from the first and second optical detectors; and a controller interface configured to generate tracking information based on the pose and to electronically transmit the tracking information to a scanner controller to enable compensation within a medical imaging scanner for object motion.
US09717443B2 Surgical tool and method for identifying an incision site
A method of identifying a site for a perineal incision on a patient includes inserting a distal end portion of an intra-urethral probe into a urethra of the patient, and guiding the distal end portion of the intra-urethral probe along a length of the urethra no farther than a junction in the urethra. The method additionally includes transmitting a signal from the distal end portion of the intra-urethral probe through the urethra, and sensing the signal at a location on a perineal skin surface, where the location correlates with the junction in the urethra.
US09717439B2 Patient data display
The temporal correlation between a bioelectrical brain signal of a patient and patient motion data, such as a signal indicative of patient motion or a patient posture indicator, is displayed by a display device. In some examples, the patient posture indicator comprises a graphical representation of at least a portion of a body of the patient. In some examples, the temporal correlation between a bioelectrical brain signal, a signal indicative of patient motion, and a signal indicative of cardiac activity of the patient is displayed by the display device.
US09717433B2 Ambulatory electrocardiography monitoring patch optimized for capturing low amplitude cardiac action potential propagation
Physiological monitoring can be provided through a lightweight wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a reusable monitor recorder that removably snaps into a receptacle on the electrode patch. The wearable monitor sits centrally on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline, with its unique narrow “hourglass”-like shape, significantly improves the ability of the wearable monitor to cutaneously sense cardiac electrical potential signals, particularly the P-wave and the QRS interval signals indicating ventricular activity in the ECG waveforms. In particular, the ECG electrodes on the electrode patch are tailored to be positioned axially along the midline of the sternum for capturing action potential propagation in an orientation that corresponds to the aVF lead used in a conventional 12-lead ECG that is used to sense positive or upright P-waves.
US09717431B2 Circuit arrangement for suppressing common-mode interference signals during the measurement of bioelectric signals
A differential voltage measuring system includes two electrodes that are connected to a patient at an input and make available a respective measurement contact at an output. A shunt resistor is connected in series with the second electrode. A first amplifier circuit has a first input for a first signal from the first electrode, a second input for a second signal from the second electrode, and an output. A second amplifier circuit has a first input that is connected in series with the shunt resistor, a second input that is connected in parallel with the shunt resistor, and an output. A first signal detection unit is provided at the output of the first amplifier circuit, and a second signal detection unit is provided at the output of the second amplifier circuit. The second signal detection unit detects the signal from the second amplifier circuit as a measurement variable.
US09717426B2 Optical receiver chain for components of a photoplethysmograph signal
The circuitry of an optical receiver reduces the ambient DC component and the pleth DC component to leave a pleth signal with substantially only a pleth AC component. The circuitry also provides gain control and can provide transmit power control to change the range of the pleth AC component to occupy a desired input range of an analog-to-digital converter.
US09717423B2 Low-complexity sensor displacement tolerant pulse oximetry based heart rate measurement
Methods for heart rate measurement based on pulse oximetry are provided that can tolerate some degree of relative displacement of a photoplethysmograph (PPG) heart rate monitor device. In some methods, artifact compensation based on a reference signal is performed on the PPG signal data to remove artifacts in the signal that may be caused, for example, by changes in ambient light and/or motion of a person wearing the monitor device. The reference signal used for artifact compensation may be generated using an LED of a complementary wavelength to that of the LED used to generate the PPG signal, or by driving an LED at a lower current than the current applied to generate the PPG signal.
US09717419B2 Optical fiber cable, method of manufacturing the same, and light source module including the same
A plug that is engaged with a receptacle for light emission of a light source unit that emits a light beam having a flat-shaped cross section and an optical fiber having a burr defect in a part of an outer peripheral portion of an incidence end surface on which the light beam is incident are included. The plug is attached to an incidence end portion of the optical fiber in an arrangement in which the burr defect is located in a short axis direction of a cross section on the incidence end surface of the light beam incident on the incidence end surface in a state in which the plug is engaged with the receptacle.
US09717418B2 Method and device for wavelength shifted imaging
A micro-camera catheter device is disclosed having at least one light source disposed on a distal end of a catheter. The light source is capable of propagating a predetermined wavelength of light with a wavelength greater than approximately 700 nanometers onto a target. The device further includes a lens system disposed on the distal end of the catheter, said lens system configured to receive light reflected from the target. The device further includes a non-linear optical media disposed about the lens system configured to reduce the wavelength of light reflected from the target. The device also includes a silicon-based solid state imaging device disposed behind the non-linear optical media configured to receive light from the non-linear optical media.
US09717417B2 Reflective mode multi-spectral time-resolved optical imaging methods and apparatuses for tissue classification
Certain aspects relate to apparatuses and techniques for non-invasive optical imaging that acquires a plurality of images corresponding to both different times and different frequencies. Additionally, alternatives described herein are used with a variety of tissue classification applications, including assessing the presence and severity of tissue conditions, such as burns and other wounds.
US09717409B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes a planar image acquisition unit configured to acquire a planar image of a subject, a tomographic image acquisition unit configured to acquire a tomographic image indicating a polarization state of the subject, and a display control unit configured to cause a display unit to display the planar image and the tomographic image indicating the polarization state side by side.
US09717405B2 Vitreoretinal membrane characterization using optical coherence tomography
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan data is used to automatically detect and characterize vitreoretinal membranes in a spatially precise manner to generate a mask image. The mask image may characterize various aspects of a vitreoretinal membrane. The mask image is then overlaid with an optical image of the retina to enable visualization of the vitreoretinal membrane.
US09717403B2 Method and apparatus for performing retro peritoneal dissection
The foregoing application describes a system and method of performing a minimally invasive surgical operation. More specifically, the invention involves the use of disposable cannula and slender dilators of variable lengths, which incorporate a source of illumination to carry light to a surgical site and video capabilities for capturing and displaying images from a CMOS or CCD camera device. According to one embodiment, fiber optics run semi-circumferentially or along walls of the cannula/dilator and terminate at about a centimeter from the distal end of the cannula/dilator, thereby preventing illumination from “bottoming out” at the floor of the incision. According to one alternate embodiment, the light fibers may be fashioned in an annulus around one or more camera chips to provide illumination and video of the surgical site. In still another embodiment, the light fibers may be replaced by light emitting diodes in a more remote light source or alternatively at the distal-tip of the CMOS or CCD camera device.
US09717400B2 Illuminating lens, observation device and method for producing an illuminating light bundle
An illuminating lens for a medical headlamp, endoscope or exoscope, to generate an illuminating light bundle with variable light distribution includes a liquid lens with variable focal length to modify a focusing of the illuminating light bundle. The invention also relates to an observation device with an illuminating lens of this type as well as a method to generate an illuminating light bundle with variable light distribution.
US09717395B2 Suction conduit switching apparatus and endoscope
A piston is inserted into a piston passage of a cylinder. The piston is displaced between a first position of a non-contact state and a second position by a pressing operation. At the first position, a suction source connection port of the cylinder faces a circumferential groove of the piston and a suction source conduit communicates with an outside atmosphere. At the second position, the suction source connection port faces an outer peripheral surface opening and the suction source conduit communicates with a suction connection port. A V-shaped opening portion as a correction opening portion is formed in the outer peripheral surface opening. The V-shaped opening portion causes an increment of a communication opening width at which the suction source connection port overlaps with the outer peripheral surface opening to be three times or less an increment of a pressing stroke of the piston.
US09717385B2 Apparatus and method of utilizing wireless switches to control a vacuum cleaner
A surface cleaning apparatus, such as a vacuum cleaner, having a wireless communication and control system including two or more wireless radio frequency communication devices configured to transmit and receive control instructions and responses to control the operation of various electrical components disposed within or attached to the surface cleaning apparatus.
US09717384B2 Apparatus and method of controlling operation of cleaner
An apparatus controls operations of a cleaner. The apparatus comprises a network interface unit for receiving first information regarding external conditions through an external network, and a controller for setting up operating schedules of the cleaner based on the first information.
US09717383B2 All in the head surface cleaning apparatus
An all in the head surface cleaning apparatus can include a surface cleaning head having a brush motor that can be drivingly connected to a moveable brushing member. The brush motor may have a brush motor axis. The surface cleaning head can include a cyclone comprising a cyclone chamber. The cyclone may have a longitudinal cyclone axis. The surface cleaning head can include a suction motor having a first end, a second end. A suction motor axis may extend between the first and second ends. At least a portion of the brush motor may be located between the first and second ends of the suction motor. An upper portion may be moveably mounted to the surface cleaning head between a storage position and a floor cleaning position, the upper portion comprising a drive handle.
US09717382B2 Upright vacuum with floating head
A vacuum cleaner with a reduced frictional force between a vacuum base and a cleaning medium is described. The vacuum has a handle, yoke, body, and base. A handle and yoke distinct from, and behind, the base provides a moment arm anterior to the base when a force is applied. The handle and yoke assembly reduce the friction between the cleaning surface and the vacuum, allowing for larger motor and debris capturing capabilities, with easier handling and maneuverability resulting in advanced and superior cleaning capabilities.
US09717380B2 Vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner includes a dirt separating and collecting system. The dirt separating and collecting system can include an air-permeable filter material, and a helical inlet guide. Dirt entering the helical inlet guide within a working airstream is visible to the user through an at least partially transparent housing.
US09717378B2 Sheet dispenser roll holder with lockout feature(s)
Embodiments of a roll support, and a roll support system, for a sheet product dispenser are disclosed. One such roll support includes an arm having an end portion and an aperture proximate the end portion of the arm and recessed therein. The aperture includes a capture region and a release region. The capture region has a width dimensioned to receive a matching end cap and shaped to allow the matching end cap to rotate freely within the capture region. The release region is contiguous with the capture region and has a width less than the width of the capture region.
US09717377B2 System for dispensing a strip of absorbent product wound into a roll that complies therewith
A system including a roll formed from a web having at least one characteristic mark of the roll, and a dispenser which has an element for identifying this mark in order to determine whether a new roll installed in the dispenser is a compatible roll. The mark is present on a free end section of the new roll. This marked free end section is followed by at least one section that does not have a characteristic mark of the roll.
US09717371B2 Portable flow sink
A portable sink includes a container for holding wash water, an inlet line to bring fresh water into the container, and an outlet line to remove wastewater from the container. A float valve on the inlet line maintains wash water at a selected level within the container. A faucet attached to the float valve may further provide a separate source of clean water to the user. The outlet line further includes a siphon to draw the wastewater from the container to a selected discharge location. The sink may be provided with one or more handles and/or a caster assembly or dolly for ease of movement about the work area. The siphon preferably includes an airlock to prevent the ingress of air at the discharge end under conditions of less than maximum flow.
US09717365B2 Pump coffee brewer
Apparatus and related methods for brewing or making individual servings of a brewed beverage with a manual pump brewer. The manual pump brewer can include a pump assembly and a brew chamber assembly, whereby user manipulation of the pump assembly directs a heated liquid through a brewing media to form a serving of a freshly brewed beverage. The manual pump brewer can include a filter assembly for directly brewing a beverage from a brewing media provided by a user. Alternatively, the manual pump brewer can receive individual pods having a single serving of a brewing media such that the pump assembly directs the heated liquid through the individual pod to brew each serving of the brewed beverage.
US09717364B2 Heater
The present application relates to a heater (6) for heating food received in a container (2) to prevent overheating and/or scorching of the food. The heater (6) has a heating element (9) and a control unit configured to initially operate the heating element (9) at a higher initial temperature setting so that, when a container (2) is disposed adjacent to the heating element (9), the temperature of the container is increased rapidly, and to reduce the temperature setting of the heating element (9) to the operating temperature setting when the higher initial temperature setting is reached. The present application also relates to an apparatus for heating food and a method of operating a heater (6) for heating food.
US09717362B1 Drapery carrying method and apparatus
A drapery hanging apparatus, method and system including a plurality of carriers, each carrier having a support portion and a pendant for carrying draperies. The carriers are retained by a flexible strip of indefinite length so that the carriers can be fed into a hanger track in a single step.
US09717353B1 Adaptable mounting system for phonograph records and/or various planar objects
In accordance with one embodiment, I presently contemplate a cruciform support base (20), semi-circular dial (10), and concentric semi-circular brace (16) that work together to support the corner of a record and/or planar article. The dial (10) and brace (16) are fastened to the support base (20) and machined in such a way that they form a simple, economical, and adaptable mechanical unit (24). Once paired with a minimum number of units, and mounted to a wall, they cooperate to display any number of records, planar articles, and/or combination thereof in an attractive, tight, grid-like configuration. Furthermore, the design of this system also allows for any one record and/or planar article to be easily retrieved or stored with the swipe of a finger.
US09717347B1 Pre-term infant mattress
Method and apparatus for a pre-term infant mattress having a plurality of upstanding air chambers connected together pneumatically which air chambers generally surround the infant except for an open area above the head of the infant. Taller outer air chambers constrain the infant laterally wherein shorter inner air chambers provide a womb-like area on the sides of the infant. The air chambers are disposed on a pad having an inner central area with no air chamber to accommodate x-rays of the infant. An air tube is provided for supplying air to the individual air chambers having an air valve for adjusting the air pressure within the air mattress.
US09717340B2 Adjustable seating and furniture
Self-adjusting furniture, seating, and accessories disclosed. When the user applies a force to the seating by shifting his or her center of gravity, the backrest and/or seat/bed portions of the seating/furniture move in response to the force to recline or adjust the seating/furniture or accessories. The user can return the seating to an upright position by again shifting his or her center of gravity. The angle of the backrest and/or seat/bed portions can vary relative to the ground as the user moves. Continuously varying the angle of both the backrest and seat/bed portions of the seating/furniture or accessories relative to the ground may improve a user's seating comfort, for example, by decreasing or negating the user's need to shift position on the seat when reclined or continuously responding the user's shift in position.
US09717339B2 Computing accessory mounting apparatus
The disclosure provides for a mounting apparatus for mounting a computing accessory to a display device. The mounting apparatus includes an attachment portion for holding a computing accessory body. An extension extends away from the attachment portion and includes one or more permanent magnets. When the mounting apparatus is in a mounted location on the display device, (i) a display-facing portion of the extension extends along and faces a rear surface of the display device; (ii) the one or more permanent magnets attract the extension to ferromagnetic material in the display device to magnetically hold the mounting apparatus in the mounted location; and (iii) the attachment portion holds the computing accessory body adjacent an outer edge of the display device.
US09717334B2 Drive device for a movable furniture part
A drive device for a moveable furniture part including an ejection element, an ejection force accumulator, and a locking device for the ejection element. The locking device includes a locking journal which is subjected to force of the ejection force accumulator and can be locked in a locked position in a latch region of a guide track. The guide track is shaped like a curved heart and has a tightening section in which the locking journal can be moved when the ejection force accumulator is tightened, and a latching movement section of the locking journal prior to reaching the locked position in the latch region. The locking journal impinged upon by the tightened ejection force accumulator can be slowed down and/or dampened in the latching movement section and can be placed in the latch region.
US09717330B2 Shelving with molded end caps
A shelving system includes a plurality of shelf members and a plurality of supports configured to support the shelf members. The shelving system further includes a plurality of end caps. Each of the end caps has at least one sleeve with a slot formed therein for receiving an end of one of the shelf members and a plurality of retaining features. Each retaining feature has an inner surface defining a cavity for receiving an end of one of the supports.
US09717329B2 Display positioning apparatus and method
Embodiments of the invention include an apparatus for positioning an electronic display. The apparatus can be combined with an existing work surface to provide a multi-position workstation. In some cases the apparatus includes amounting portion configured to support an electronic display and a keyboard. The mounting portion may be movable with respect to the work surface between multiple positions, including for example, a sitting position and a standing position. Methods for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard are also included.
US09717327B2 Console furniture and features thereof
The present disclosure is directed to console furniture and related features. A support structure is provided for supporting a work surface, the support structure comprising a frame defining an interior space, a frame brace receivable into the interior space of the frame, a support for supporting the work surface, and at least one fastening mechanism for extending between the frame brace and the support to clamp the frame therebetween, thereby securing the support about the frame. A console with a height adjustable work surface is also provided.
US09717324B2 Method for producing a toothbrush and toothbrush produced thereby
A method for producing a toothbrush comprises providing a head, a neck portion, and a handle; providing a coupling element; and combining the neck portion to the handle by the coupling element so that an irreversible connection is formed. The individual parts of the toothbrush to be formed can be produced in parallel or successively, wherein some of the parts can be produced by injection molding. A toothbrush formed by the method comprises a head, a neck portion, and a handle; these elements can be produced as building blocks separately and may be connected to one another via a coupling element to form an inseparable connection.
US09717318B1 Multi-stage mascara application operation
Mascara dispensing apparatus comprising: a tubular container, a tubular piston movable endwise in the container and containing mascara, there being a chamber in the container through which the piston is movable and into which mascara flows via an outlet in the piston, mascara application brushes carried by the piston to receive mascara from the chamber as the piston moves endwise, the brushes movable by the piston to an exposed position for mascara application.
US09717317B2 Capsule cosmetics and manufacturing method thereof
Disclosed herein are capsule cosmetics and a manufacturing method thereof. This invention uses a one-piece type capsule container. After a liquid cosmetic material and a porous impregnation member are put into the container to manufacture cosmetics, the container is sealed by a sealing member, so that the porous impregnation member is naturally impregnated with the liquid cosmetic material. This allows the loading or impregnation of the liquid cosmetic material to be rapidly, easily, and simply realized, thus reducing manufacturing cost of the capsule cosmetics. As a result, this invention can afford inexpensive and high-quality products to consumers.
US09717316B2 Compact housing for a cosmetic container
There is presented a compact housing for a compact cosmetic container. The housing comprises a godet receptacle adapted to receive a godet containing a cosmetic product. The housing is movable between a closed configuration, in which the cosmetic product of the received godet is covered, and an open configuration, in which the cosmetic product of the received godet is uncovered to allow a user to access the cosmetic product. When the housing is in the open configuration, the godet receptacle is movable between a locked configuration, in which removal of the godet from the godet receptacle is prevented, and a release configuration, in which removal of the godet from the godet receptacle is permitted. When the housing is in the closed configuration, the godet receptacle is in the locked configuration.
US09717315B2 Eyelash curler and additional member for eyelash curler
Embodiments of the present invention provide an eyelash curler capable of separating eyelashes from each other at roots thereof and of beautifully curling eyelashes. The eyelash curler 1 has a pair of frame portions 12 and 12 extending in a vertical direction, a movable member 60 that is movable in the vertical direction along the pair of frame portions 12 and 12, a stationary member 50 fixed above the movable member 60, and an elastic member 70 placed on the movable member 60. The eyelash curler 1 has arm members 10 and 20 operable to move the movable member 60 upward to bring the contact area 70A of the elastic member 70 into contact with the stationary member 50 and a comb member 80 attached to the movable member 60. The comb member 80 includes an attachment portion 81 attached to a front surface of the movable member 60, a bridge portion 82 extending from the attachment portion 81 to near the contact area 70A of the elastic member 70, and a plurality of tooth-shaped portions 83 extending upward from portions of the bridge portion 82 that are located near the contact area 70A of the elastic member 70. The tooth-shaped portions 83 are spaced at certain intervals in a horizontal direction.
US09717301B2 Composite shoe sole, footwear constituted thereof and method producing the same
A water-vapor permeable shoe-sole combination (15) with an upper side (5) having at least on through hole (31) extending through the thickness of the shoe-sole combination, a barrier unit (35) with an upper side forming at least part of the upper side (50) of the shoe-sole combination, made of a water-vapor permeable barrier material (33) that forms a barrier against penetration of foreign bodies, by means of which the at least one through hole (31) is closed in a water-vapor permeable manner, a reinforcement device (25) formed for mechanical reinforcement of the shoe-sole combination (105), constructed with at least one reinforcement web (37) arranged on at least one surface of the barrier material (33) and at least partially crossing the at least one through hole (31), and at least one walking-sole part (117) arranged beneath the barrier unit (35).
US09717297B2 Shell for a protective helmet
An improved protective shell for a helmet, where the shell has angled panels forming pyramid-like surface structures covering the surface of the helmet. Each pyramid-like structure has three or more panels conjoining to form an apex. In one embodiment, each of the panels is a triangle having a base and a point that conjoins adjacent panels, thereby forming the apex. The limited number of apex points and the orientation of the angled panels reduce the probability that an impacting object will deliver a square blow to the helmet. The probability is increased that such blows will be only glancing in nature, thereby reducing the severity of the blow and head injury to the wearer.
US09717295B2 Lighted visor and method of retrofitting a protective suit
A lighted visor and method of retrofitting a protective suit with a lighted visor are disclosed. The lighted visor includes a shield and at least one light source that is conformable to the shape of the shield or visor on which is it disposed.
US09717285B2 Garment
A need for a flexible bra that can be worn with multiple different necklines has been identified. Thus there is provided a garment including: a band arranged in use to extend around the torso and two cups attached to the band via a releasable attachment means.
US09717279B2 Electronic cigarette
An electronic cigarette comprises nicotine without harmful tar. The cigarette includes a shell, a cell, nicotine solution, control circuit, and an electro-thermal vaporization nozzle installed in the air suction end of the shell. The advantages of the present invention are smoking without tar, reducing the risk of cancer, the user still gets a smoking experience, the cigarette is not lit, and there is no fire danger.
US09717278B2 Electronic cigarette
An electronic cigarette includes a shell and a mouthpiece. The external wall of the shell has an air inlet. An atomizer and a liquid-supply are in contact with each other. The air inlet, atomizer, and an aerosol passage are interconnected.
US09717274B2 Smoke-free cigarette, cigar or pipe
The invention relates to a smokeless cigarette, cigar, or pipe having at least one depot (10) for storing and for defined release due to external heat input of nicotine and/or compound comprising nicotine to an airflow to be guided through the depot (10). According to the invention the depot (10) comprises at least one heat transfer segment (16) for targeted heat input for defined release of the nicotine and/or nicotine compound to the airflow.
US09717272B2 Container for smokeless tobacco product
A container that may be employed to store a tobacco-containing material is provided. The container may include a lower body portion and an upper lid. The lower body portion may include an intermediate bottom wall that may separate the lower body portion into upper and lower internal storage compartments. An environment modification material may be received in the lower internal storage compartment. The tobacco-containing material may be received in the upper internal storage compartment. The environment modification material may control humidity in the container to preserve the freshness of the tobacco-containing material and/or perform other functions. Vent channels cooperatively formed by the lower body portion and the upper cover may further contribute to humidity control.
US09717267B2 Beverages containing rare sugars
Beverages comprising rare sugars and sweetness enhancers are provided herein, wherein the sweetness enhancers are present at or below the sweetness recognition threshold concentration. Also provided are methods for improving the sweetness of a beverage comprising rare sugars by adding a sweetness enhancer in a concentration at or below its sweetness recognition threshold. Beverages comprising natural high potency sweeteners and rare sugars with sugar-like characteristics are also provided, wherein the natural high potency sweetener and rare sugars are present in particular weight ratios.
US09717264B2 Individual frozen drink dispenser
An individual frozen drink dispenser includes a housing having a base configured to support a blender cup, a pod support disposed above the blender cup and configured to support a pod containing frozen ingredients suitable for preparing a frozen drink, a dispense plunger coupled to the housing and configured to move from a pre-dispense position to a dispense position in which the dispense plunger pushes the frozen ingredients from the pod into the blender cup, and a drive mechanism coupled to the housing and configured to drive the movement of the dispense plunger from the pre-dispense position to the dispense position. A method of preparing a frozen drink is further disclosed.
US09717256B2 Auger type poultry chillers with enhanced hanger bearing configurations and related assemblies
A poultry chiller includes a tank and an auger rotatably held in the tank. The auger includes a first auger section and a second auger section. The first auger section includes a first auger shaft and a first auger flight. The first auger flight includes a first helical portion on the first auger shaft and a first flight extension that extends away from the first helical portion. The second auger section includes a second auger shaft coupled to the first auger shaft and a second auger flight. The second auger flight includes a second helical portion on the second auger shaft and a second flight extension that extends away from the second helical portion. The chiller includes a hanger bearing assembly between the first and second auger sections and extending to an upper portion of the tank.
US09717252B2 Biological control of crown gall disease on grapevines
Derivatives of Agrobacterium vitis strain F2/5 are disclosed. These derivatives were generated following homologous recombination with an internal fragment of targeted genes resulting in gene disruption by insertion of a copy of suicide vector pVIK165. The genes disrupted were F-avi5813 encoding a phosphopantetheinyltransferase, F-avi4329 encoding an aminotransferase and F-avi0838 (rirA) encoding an iron responsive transcriptional regulator. Such derivatives control crown gall on grapevines. In addition, these derivatives did not induce roots necrosis but enhanced root development and callus formation. On young stem explants, it was shown as well that the F2/5 derivatives are necrosis-negative.
US09717241B2 Increased tolerance of DHT-enabled plants to auxinic herbicides resulting from moiety differences in auxinic herbicide molecular structures
The present invention relates to a method of controlling undesirable vegetation in a field containing an auxin-herbicide-tolerant cotton crop by applying to the location where control is desired an effective amount of 2,4-DB.
US09717239B2 Cellulose ether as a drift control agent and rainfastness agent
Disclosed is an agricultural composition comprising at least one agricultural chemical and at least one cellulose ether, wherein the cellulose ether is a nonionic methylethylhydroxyethyl cellulose (MEHEC) polymer as well as a method for reducing spray drift during the spraying of an aqueous solution. The method comprises combining the MEHEC polymer with at least one agricultural chemical to obtain the aqueous solution and spraying the aqueous solution. Also disclosed is a method for increasing resistance to rain wash off of an aqueous solution sprayed onto a surface.
US09717238B2 Antibacterial composition, antibacterial cases and accessories for handheld electronics, and method of making antibacterial cases for handheld electronics
An antibacterial composition is formed from a polymer matrix that includes silver nanoparticles. The antibacterial composition can be used to provide surfaces that are to be touched. The antibacterial composition is particularly useful for forming cases for handheld electronic devices such as mobile telephones, smartphones, tablet computers, remote controls, and game controllers. A method of manufacturing items formed the composition can create materials with homogenously dispersed silver nanoparticles. Another process can be used to add antibacterial properties to existing surfaces.
US09717232B1 Electrically controlled movable tree stand for supporting a person
A motorized tree stand includes a frame assembly for attachment to a tree. The frame assembly includes a rear wall that includes a vertical drive track and at least one vertical gliding rail spaced laterally therefrom. A seat assembly is operatively coupled to the rear wall of the frame assembly and provides a seat on which a user can sit. A first drive assembly is coupled to the seat assembly and includes a first motor that is connected to a driven wheel that seats against the vertical drive track to controllably move the seat assembly in a vertical direction along the frame assembly. A second drive assembly is coupled to a swivel plate for controllably moving the swivel plate resulting in swiveling of the seat assembly relative to the frame assembly. A controller and a power source are also provided.
US09717229B2 Cage trap with easy set and release mechanism
A cage type animal trap having an enclosure with an animal access opening into a vacant interior sized to receive an animal to be trapped. The access opening is closed by a door that is movable from a closed to an opened position by an actuating mechanism having a flexible actuating member with one end secured to the door and the other end releasably held by a latch mechanism. The latch mechanism is configured to move the door to the opened position by tensioning the actuating member and, in response to a trigger mechanism, to release the second end of the actuating member and allow the door to move from the opened position to the closed position thereby trapping the animal in the animal enclosure. A door lock in abutment with the outer surface of the door prevents the door from being opened by a trapped animal. A part of the actuating mechanism is in engagement with the door lock when the door is closed such that the door lock is automatically disengaged when the actuating member is tensioned.
US09717221B2 Aquatic cultivation system
An aquatic cultivation system includes a bowl and a siphon equipment. The bowl contains a liquid. The siphon equipment includes a liquid intake tube, and a liquid exit tube. At least one of the liquid tube and the liquid exit tube includes an air vent. The siphon equipment includes a water level control element corresponding to the air vent. The water level control element includes a connection portion and a brake portion located on the connection portion. The brake portion is movable on a reciprocal movement locus when subject to change of liquid water level elevation to close or release the air vent, thereby drives the siphon equipment to draw intermittently the liquid in the bowl. As a result, filths in the bowl can be removed and an intermittent turbulent current can be generated to prevent the filths from depositing at the bottom of the bowl.
US09717213B1 Soybean variety 01064120
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01064120. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01064120. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01064120 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01064120 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09717208B2 Cotton variety 14R953B2XF
The invention relates to the novel cotton variety designated 14R953B2XF. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants, plant parts and derivatives of the cotton variety 14R953B2XF. Also provided by the invention are methods of using cotton variety 14R953B2XF and products derived therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing cotton plants by crossing the cotton variety 14R953B2XF with itself or another cotton variety and plants and seeds produced by such methods.
US09717194B2 Squash hybrid SV0914YG and parents thereof
The invention provides seed and plants of squash hybrid SV0914YG and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of squash hybrid SV0914YG and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a squash plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another squash plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants.
US09717190B2 Miniature irrigation tow line
A miniature irrigation tow line for use in irrigating average to small sized acreages includes a modified hose defining a conventionally sized hose having water regulator valves sequentially disposed thereon, with a miniature skid attached to the hose at the location of each water regulator valve. The regulator valves are each connected to a water sprinkler nozzle and attached to the modified hose over an aperture in the hose, thereby enabling fluid passing through the length of the hose to be selectively dispersed from the sprinkler nozzle(s). The miniature skids permit the miniature irrigation tow line to be pulled along a ground surface with the regulator value and sprinkler nozzles kept in a desired orientation and without damaging the modified hose.
US09717186B2 Carbon nanotube production method to stimulate soil microorganisms and plant growth produced from the emissions of internal combustion
A carbon nanotube production system is used for improving plant growth characteristics for a plant growing medium, for example soil in an agricultural field. The system includes an internal combustion engine, for example a tractor engine, which is arranged to combust a fuel mixture therein which includes a blend of fuels and additives including a carbon nanotube seeding material. The engine is operated in pyrolysis to produce exhaust emissions containing black carbon ultrafine and nano soot, for example by towing an agricultural implement across the agricultural field. At least a portion of the exhaust emissions is captured and conditioned to process the carbon soot into carbon nanotubes. The conditioned exhaust emissions and carbon nanotubes therein are then applied to the plant growing medium, for example by using the agricultural implement to incorporate the conditioned exhaust into the soil.
US09717185B2 Vegetation pruning device
A vegetation pruning device includes a pair of pivotably coupled handles and a motor having a rotary output drive for driving an endless flexible cutting chain. A guard is moved relative to the chain by pivoting of the handles relative to each other to grip vegetation between the guard and the chain. The motor is actuated by pressing each of a pair of elongate triggers at any position along the length of the triggers.
US09717173B2 Molded boot for dispensing seeds and multiple treatments
A double shoot dispensing system including a shank for opening a treatment trench, a seed shovel for creating left and right seed shelves above and on opposite sides of the treatment trench, and a two-piece boot body having a plurality of internal passages defined by assembled left and right halves of the body. A first passage directs the seeds onto the seed shelves, a second passage directs a granular fertilizer treatment into the treatment trench, and first and second tube passages receive first and second tubes delivering additional treatments into the treatment trench. Left and right ducts branch from the first passage so as to guide the deposit of the seeds. The body is constructed of a material having a relatively low mass and a relatively low coefficient of friction, such as polyurethane, polyethylene, nylon, or polyacetal, and is externally shaped so as to taper in a direction of travel.
US09723762B1 Free cooling in high humidity environments
A data center includes heat producing components and an air handling system that provides reduced relative humidity air to cool the heat producing components. The air handling system includes a thermal storage unit that removes thermal energy from incoming air under a given set of ambient air conditions and releases thermal energy into incoming air under another set of ambient air conditions. Under the given set of ambient air conditions, the thermal storage unit cools the incoming air and causes water vapor to condense out of the incoming air. Under the other set of ambient air conditions, the thermal storage unit releases thermal energy into the incoming air, thus heating the incoming air.
US09723758B2 Airflow channeling structure for densely packed storage enclosures
A chassis directs cooling air around compute components of an information handling system (IHS). The chassis includes an enclosure having a base wall, an air intake at a front side, and an air exhaust at a rear side. Stiffeners are attached laterally across the base wall and positioned between the front side and a rear area of the base wall. A planar member is horizontally attached on top of the one or more stiffeners. The planar member is provisioned with the compute components, which substantially block air flow above the planar member causing thermal shadowing of the thermal energy generating component that is provisioned in the rear area. Air channels formed through each of the stiffeners direct air flow under the planar member toward the rear area that is provisioned with the thermal energy generating component.
US09723754B2 Ground structure of controller mounted in construction machine
A ground structure of a controller that is mounted in a construction machine such as a dump truck and has a case having an upper surface on which a connector receiver hole for a receptacle connector to be received is provided includes: a cable harness that is provided by a plurality of cables including a ground cable and is connected to the receptacle connector; and a connecting portion for the ground cable to be connected, the connecting portion being provided near the connector receiver hole on the upper surface.
US09723753B2 Planar heat cup with confined reservoir for electronic power component
A cooling system for cooling an electronic component has a heat pipe defined by an inner wall and an outer wall with an intermediate fluid chamber. The heat pipe has a wall to be put in contact with a cold plate and extends away from the cold plate to define a cup shape with a fluid movement member positioned within the chamber to move the fluid from an end of the chamber adjacent to the cold plate to a spaced end of the cup shape.
US09723747B1 Equipment module support brackets, rack-mounted equipment systems, and related methods
Equipment module support brackets, rack-mounted equipment cabinet systems, and related methods can include at least one equipment module, a rack-mounted equipment cabinet for storing the rack-mounted equipment, and at least one equipment module support bracket installed in the rack-mounted equipment cabinet for supporting the at least one equipment module stored in the rack-mounted equipment cabinet. The support bracket can include a longitudinally extending top face, and at least one aperture disposed on opposite ends of a rear facing longitudinal edge of the longitudinally extending top face. The support bracket can include a height of less than one (1) rack unit (RU) when mounted in the rack-mounted equipment cabinet. The support bracket can include at least one server support bracket for supporting a server.
US09723735B1 Kickstand for protective case
A kickstand for an electronic device includes a standing leg, a base and an adhesive provided on a surface of the base so that the base can be attached to the protective case. The kickstand further includes a shaft and the standing leg is pivoted on the base. The base includes a first opening and a second opening to receive both ends of the shaft, and the shaft is substantially in a shape of a cylinder and includes a head, a body, and a bottom. The shaft further includes a cylindrical hole formed on the bottom and a metal pin is received in the cylindrical hole. The diameter of the head is greater than that of the body. Additionally, the diameter of the bottom is greater than that of the body.
US09723730B2 Beam bar snap in an electronic device
This is directed to a hook and receiving element combination for securing components forming the shell of an electronic device. The receiving element can include a beam connected to the outer shell component and operative to deflect as the hook element approaches the receiving element. To limit deflections of the outer shell component, the beam can be restrained at opposing ends in directions perpendicular to the beam length, but free to slide along the beam axis. In some embodiments, the receiving element can include a lip for guiding the deflection of the beam as the beam contacts the hook element. In particular, the lip can ensure that the beam deflects at an angle relative to the hook element motion such that a smaller hook element motion is required to engage the beam.
US09723723B2 Temperable electrochromic devices
This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus for tempering or chemically strengthening glass substrates having electrochromic devices fabricated thereon. In one aspect, an electrochromic device is fabricated on a glass substrate. The glass substrate is then tempered or chemically strengthened. The disclosed methods may reduce or prevent potential issues that the electrochromic device may experience during the tempering or the chemical strengthening processes, including the loss of charge carrying ions from the device, redistribution of charge carrying ions in the device, modification of the morphology of materials included in the device, modification of the oxidation state of materials included in the device, and the formation of an interfacial region between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer of the device that impacts the performance of the device.
US09723718B2 Electronic component mounting device and semiconductor device including the same
An electronic component mounting device includes an insulating substrate having a metal pattern formed thereon and a MELF electronic component. The MELF electronic component is fitted into a first receiving portion configured with the metal pattern and the insulating substrate exposed from a lacking portion of the metal pattern. The electronic component mounting device further includes a conductive member formed between the MELF electronic component and the metal pattern, and the conductive member is not formed between the MELF electronic component and the insulating substrate.
US09723705B2 Controlling intensity of a particle beam
In an example, a synchrocyclotron includes a particle source to provide pulses of ionized plasma to a cavity; a voltage source to provide a radio frequency (RF) voltage to the cavity to accelerate particles from the plasma column outwardly; and an extraction channel to receive a beam of particles from the cavity for output from the particle accelerator. The particle source is configured to control pulse widths of the ionized plasma in order to control an intensity of the beam of particles. This example synchrocyclotron may include one or more of the following features, either alone or in combination.
US09723704B2 Neutron interrogation systems using pyroelectric crystals and methods of preparation thereof
According to one embodiment, an apparatus includes a pyroelectric crystal, a deuterated or tritiated target, an ion source, and a common support coupled to the pyroelectric crystal, the deuterated or tritiated target, and the ion source. In another embodiment, a method includes producing a voltage of negative polarity on a surface of a deuterated or tritiated target in response to a temperature change of a pyroelectric crystal, pulsing a deuterium ion source to produce a deuterium ion beam, accelerating the deuterium ion beam to the deuterated or tritiated target to produce a neutron beam, and directing the ion beam onto the deuterated or tritiated target to make neutrons using a voltage of the pyroelectric crystal and/or an HGI surrounding the pyroelectric crystal. The directionality of the neutron beam is controlled by changing the accelerating voltage of the system. Other apparatuses and methods are presented as well.
US09723695B1 Power line communication method and apparatus using downstream current modulation
A lighting control system is provided with a communication method utilizing downstream current modulation. A primary controller is electrically coupled to a plurality of lighting devices via a mains power transmission network. Each of the respective lighting devices includes an occupancy sensor and is configured to provide full illumination when occupancy is detected in the associated area. The controller identifies occupancy by an increase in current on the mains lines, directs the other devices to fully illuminate, and activates a timer. Prior to lapsing of the timer, any of the devices may indicate continued occupancy by adjusting an operating current to a respective light source according to a predetermined pattern. Upon identifying the pattern, the controller generates control signals directing each of the other devices to remain fully illuminated, and resets the timer. The predetermined pattern may for example include amplitude modulation, threshold numbers of cycles, or both.
US09723686B2 Light emission device and lamp unit
A light emission device includes an organic EL panel and a molding resin. In the organic EL panel, an organic EL light emission portion is formed on a substrate. The organic EL panel is flexible. The molding resin shapes the organic EL panel so that the organic EL panel is in a curved state.
US09723682B2 Luminaire for use in a system for generating non-homogenous light and associated methods
A luminaire is for use in a lighting apparatus that includes a plurality of luminaires and a computerized device. The luminaire includes a plurality of lights and a controller. The luminaire is operated to emit source light characterized by a dominant source light wavelength within a range from 390 nanometers to 750 nanometers, and with a different dominant source light wavelength than the source light of at least one other luminaire in the lighting apparatus, and such that the source light emitted by the luminaire is combined with the source light emitted by the at least one other luminaire to form a combined light. The dominant source light wavelength of the luminaire is variable with time, and the controller operates the plurality of LEDs such that a color temperature of the combined light does not vary more than 5% across the length and width of the area of illumination while the dominant source wavelength varies with time.
US09723681B2 LED lamp system with different color temperatures and various operation modes
An LED lamp system with different color temperatures and various operation modes can resolve the problems occurred in the prior arts. By switching the AC current continuously, not only the LED lamp sets can emit lights of different color temperatures, and moreover, at the same time, the light sensitive detector and moving object detection circuit serve to detect environmental light intensity and the moving objects so as to auto-control the lighting and light intensity of the LED lamp sets so as to match the requirements of environment protection and power saving As a result, intellectual light control for LED lamps is achieved. This is beneficial to the applications of LED lamps.
US09723676B2 Method and system for modifying a beacon light source for use in a light based positioning system
In one aspect, the present disclosure related to a method for modifying a beacon light source for use in a light-based positioning system. In some embodiments, the method includes selecting a modulation scheme for the light source, determining a duty cycle for the light source based on the modulation scheme, the duty cycle having a proportion of time the light source is in an on state and a corresponding proportion of time the light source is in an off state, the proportion of time the light source is in an off state resulting in reduced luminosity of the light source, and supplying additional power to the light source to compensate for the reduced luminosity of the light source by the duty cycle.
US09723675B2 Dimming circuit
A dimming circuit includes an active dimmer configured to apply input power Vin to an amplification module or an error compensation module, the amplification module configured to amplify an output current of the active dimmer, and the error compensation module configured to correct an error or distortion of the amplification module. The amplification module and the error compensation module are connected in a feedback form.
US09723673B2 Handheld device for merging groups of lighting fixtures
A handheld device for merging groups of lighting fixtures is disclosed. The handheld device includes a communication interface configured to wirelessly communicate with a plurality of lighting fixtures and control circuitry. In one embodiment, the control circuitry is configured to effect selection of a first lighting fixture or a first switch module that is grouped with a first group of lighting fixtures via the communication interface; identify the first group of lighting fixtures; effect selection of a device-to-be-added that is not initially associated with the first group of lighting fixtures via the communication interface; determine a new group by adding the device-to-be-added to the first group of lighting fixtures; create group assignment information for the new group; and send the group assignment information to each of the first group of lighting fixtures and the device-to-be-added of the new group via the communication interface.
US09723667B1 Output tuning and dimming interface for an LED driver
An LED driver circuit is provided with a dynamic operating range which can be set using an offline tuning interface. During an offline mode of operation, the tuning interface may be coupled to the dimming control interface and provide both power and one or more digital pulses corresponding to a desired maximum output voltage and/or maximum output current. The controller then modifies the programmed maximum output voltage and the maximum output current values based on the one or more digital pulses received via the tuning interface circuit. Group tuning is permitted by way of a shared bus between a programming device and a plurality of LED driver circuits. Tuning confirmation or error may be detected by an LED driver circuit and the programming device may be notified of the success or failure of a particular tuning operation.
US09723658B2 Light emission module, connector, and mounting structure for light emission module
The present invention provides a light-emitting module capable of absorbing individual differences in organic EL panels that are inevitably generated in manufacture or individual differences between different types of organic EL panels. A connector includes a connection side circuit. The connection side circuit includes a circuit side power supply path that contributes to power supply to a light-emitting panel. The light-emitting panel includes an adjustment element and a light-emitting element. The adjustment element is capable of adjusting an electric resistance value and electrically connected to the light-emitting element through the circuit side power supply path.
US09723655B2 Method and apparatus for handling device to device communication in a wireless communication system
A communication device includes a communication interfacing unit, a display unit, and a processor. The processor operable to perform operations includes controlling the display unit to display a user interface; controlling the display unit to display a first icon on the user interface, in which the first icon indicates a first strength of a first signal of a radio access technology (RAT) received by the communication interfacing unit; and controlling the display unit to display a second icon on the user interface corresponding to a second strength of a second signal of the RAT received by the communication interfacing unit, in which the first signal and the second signal are transmitted by different devices.
US09723647B2 Handling a radio link failure in communications
A method for a communications system, wherein in response to detecting a radio link problem during a first phase of a radio link failure, the first user terminal transmits an indication of the detection of the radio link problem to a second user terminal over a device-to-device link. In response to a report on the radio link problem detection of the first user terminal being sent from the second user terminal to a network apparatus, the first user terminal receives a confirmation on a status of the report from the second user terminal over the device-to-device link. Based on the confirmation, the first user terminal decides, whether to stop a first radio link failure timer, reset the first radio link failure timer, or extend the first radio link failure timer.
US09723646B2 LTE+CDMA 1x hybrid
An apparatus for communicating over a circuit switched network and a packetized data network. The apparatus includes a packetized data modem, a circuit switched modem, and a hybrid processor. The packetized data modem is configured to communicate with the packetized data network over a packetized data radio link via a radio. The circuit switched modem is configured to communicate with the circuit switched network over a circuit switched radio link via the radio. The hybrid processor is configured to monitor a circuit switched sleep cycle and a packetized data sleep cycle, and is configured to direct the packetized data modem and the circuit switched modem to switch between the networks according to the sleep cycles by prioritizing communications with the circuit switched network above communications with the packetized data network.
US09723643B2 Methods and nodes for supporting D2D communication
A Device-to-Device (D2D) communication between a first wireless device served by a first base station and a second wireless device served by a second base station is supported by employing an assisting node that cooperates with the first base station by creating a network code form (f(x1,x2)) of first data (x1) transmitted by the first wireless device and second data (x2) transmitted by the second wireless device. The assisting node transmits the network coded form of the first and second data to the first base station, such that the first base station is able to determine the second data (x2) based on the received first data (x1) and the network coded form (f(x1,x2)), and to transmit the second data to the first wireless device, for combining with data received by the second wireless device in the D2D communication.
US09723638B2 Method for establishing networking connection
A method for establishing a networking connection includes: utilizing a mobile communication device to wirelessly communicate with a wireless access point to establish a networking connection between the mobile communication device and the wireless access point; utilizing the mobile communication device to encode a profile of a wireless local area network (WLAN) corresponding to the wireless access point to generate one or more profile encoded packets; utilizing the mobile communication device to transmit the one or more profile encoded packets; utilizing a wireless communication device to receive the one or more profile encoded packets; utilizing the wireless communication device to parse the one or more profile encoded packets to obtain the profile of the WLAN; and utilizing the wireless communication device to connect to the wireless access point according to the profile of the WLAN to establish a networking connection between the wireless communication device and the wireless access point.
US09723636B2 Initial access channel for scalable wireless mobile communication networks
Physical layer structures and access schemes for use in such networks are described and in particular initial access channel (IACH) structures are proposed. A spectrum efficient downlink (DL) IACH design supports different types of User Equipment (UE) capabilities and different system bandwidths. An IACH includes the synchronization channel (SCH) and broadcast-control channel (BCH). A non-uniform SCH for all system bandwidths is provided, as well as scalable bandwidth BCH depending on system bandwidth. An initial access procedure is provided, as well as an access procedure.
US09723633B2 Method for transmitting packets in a mobile station
A method of performing uplink transmission at a user equipment (UE) is provided. The UE determines whether a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) retransmission collides with a transmission for a random access in a time interval, and performs the HARQ retransmission when the HARQ retransmission does not collide with the transmission for random access in the time interval. A current value of information indicating a redundancy version (RV) for the HARQ retransmission is incremented by 1 when the HARQ retransmission does not collide with the transmission for random access in the time interval.
US09723632B2 Wireless communication system, wireless communication apparatus, wireless communication method, and computer program
Random access operation is performed under a communication environment in which a plurality of communication modes having different transmission rate coexist with small overhead. A high-grade communication station spoofs information of a packet length and a rate in a decoding portion so that a value of (packet length)/(rate) corresponds to a duration where the communication is hoped to be stopped. The other station receiving the spoofed information receives the rest of the packet with the designated rate during the interval designated by the value of (packet length)/(rate). In this case, the packet length and the rate are not those of actually transmitted packet so that this packet is discarded.
US09723630B2 Contention-based resource allocation method and apparatus for low power D2D communication
A contention-based resource allocation method and apparatus is provided for use in a low power Device-to-Device (D2D) communication. The resource allocation method of a Device-to-Device (D2D) terminal of the present disclosure includes selecting an available resource in a frame, monitoring to detect a signal is received while a backoff timer is running, and performing, when no signal is received on the available resource before expiry of the backoff timer, a D2D communication using the available resource.
US09723627B2 Method and device for transmitting uplink data in support of multi-subframe scheduling
A method for transmitting HARQ for uplink data in support of multi-frame scheduling is provided. The method includes a UE receiving a multi-subframe scheduling uplink grant signaling and PHICH information sent from a base station; for one uplink subframe, the UE processes parameters of uplink transmission according to uplink grant signaling which schedules a SHARQ process of the scheduled uplink subframe and a relative position of a PHICH channel; and the UE sends new uplink data, retransmitting data of the SHARQ to which the uplink subframe belongs, or currently does not send uplink data in the uplink subframe.
US09723623B2 Access point managed concurrent transmissions
An access point may schedule concurrent peer-to-peer transmissions for different stations in a basic service set (BSS) of an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 architecture.
US09723622B2 Method and apparatus for prioritizing voice over internet protocol signaling messages
A method and apparatus for enabling prioritization of signaling messages in a communication network are disclosed. For example, the method receives at least one signaling message, and classifies each of the at least one signaling message. The method schedules each of the at least one signaling message for processing, and discards selectively one or more signaling messages that have been scheduled under an overload condition.
US09723619B2 Coordinated multipoint transmission and reception (CoMP) in a wireless telecommunications network
A method in a first network node (110) for coordinating data transmissions between wireless devices (121, 122) and two or more antennas associated with at least one second network node (210, 310) in a wireless communication network (100) is provided. The wireless devices (121, 122) are served by the at least one second network node (210, 310) and the at least one second network node (210, 310) is configured to perform coordinated data transmission or reception. First, the first network node (110) identifies two or more groups of wireless devices based on mutual spatial correlation between the wireless devices (121, 122). Then, the first network node (110) selects a subset of wireless devices from two or more of the identified groups of wireless devices based on a criterion that relates to a data rate of each of the wireless devices. The first network node (110) then schedules wireless devices from the selected subset of wireless devices for the coordinated data transmission or reception of the at least second and third network node (210, 310). The first network node (110) then coordinates the data transmission or reception between the two or more antennas comprised in the at least one second network node (210, 310) and the scheduled wireless devices.A first network node and a computer program are also provided.
US09723618B2 Threshold-based and power-efficient scheduling request procedure
The invention relates to methods for improving a scheduling request transmission between a UE and a base station. The transmission of the scheduling request is postponed, by implementing a threshold that the data in the transmission buffer has to reach, before a transmission of the scheduling request is triggered. In one variant, the data in the transmission buffer needs to reach a specific amount, to trigger a scheduling request. The invention refers to further improvements: the PDDCH monitoring time window is delayed after sending a scheduling request; the dedicated scheduling request resources of the PUCCH are prioritized differently such that low-priority scheduling requests are transmitted less often.
US09723617B2 Method and device for processing interference
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and a device for processing interference, wherein according to a first demodulation reference signal DMRS pilot symbol carried by a first subcarrier used by an uplink user equipment, an interference channel matrix of an uplink interference channel from the uplink user equipment to a D2D receiving end is measured, wherein the first subcarrier is a subcarrier shared by a D2D transmitting end and the uplink user equipment; a null space matrix of the uplink interference channel is calculated according to the interference channel matrix; and the signal received by the D2D receiving end via the first subcarrier is processed by using the null space matrix to eliminate an interference signal which comes from the uplink user equipment in the signal.
US09723609B2 Method, base station and user equipment of extending transmission coverage
The present disclosure is directed to a method of extending cell coverage, a base station using the same method, and a user equipment using the same method. In one of the exemplary embodiments, a base station transmits a system information over a physical channel located at a first physical location in a group of radio frames to a user equipment (UE). The base station would then determine based on at least a cell identification (ID) of the base station the second physical location for a repetition of the system information over the physical channel located at the second physical location in a group of radio frames. The base station would then transmit the repetition of the system information at the second physical location in the group of radio frames to the UE.
US09723601B2 Control channel in a high-speed packet access system
The proposed technology relates to a method for conveying information from a node to user equipment, UE, in a HSPA, system. The method comprises the step of obtaining (S1) rank information and modulation information related to a four-branch Multiple Input Multiple Output, MIMO, system. The method also comprises the step of combining (S2) the rank information and the modulation information related to the four-branch MIMO system into a bit pattern, and the step of transmitting (S3) the combined rank information and modulation information related to the four-branch MIMO system as said bit pattern in a control channel to the UE. In this way, a power-efficient solution for conveying information related to a four-branch MIMO system in a control channel from a node to a UE in a HSPA system is provided.
US09723600B2 Dynamic allocation of communication resources in a wireless system
A method of receiving information by a wireless communication device is provided. The method includes receiving a plurality of wireless subframes at a periodic interval, wherein an interval duration of the periodic interval is greater than a duration of each of the plurality of wireless subframes. The method further includes determining for each wireless subframe of the plurality whether the wireless subframe includes a grant resource that indicates that a resource unit pattern of a plurality of selectively assignable resource unit patterns of resource units of the subframe includes information for the communication device. A method of transmitting information by the wireless communication device is also provided.
US09723588B1 Determining a location of a wireless transmitter
A method for determining a location of a wireless transmitter includes: receiving, at data processing hardware, receiver signals from corresponding receivers located within an observation area; estimating, by the data processing hardware, the location of the rogue transmitter; and reporting the estimated location of the rogue transmitter to a remote system in communication with the data processing hardware. Estimating the location of a rogue transmitter includes, for each receiver, determining a transmitter location contour about the receiver based on the corresponding at least one receiver signal and one or more propagation path loss functions and identifying an intersection of the transmitter location contours of the receivers as the estimated location of the rogue transmitter. Each propagation path loss function is based on terrain information corresponding to the observation area. The transmitter location contour defines a collection of candidate locations of the rogue transmitter relative to the receiver.
US09723585B2 Method and apparatus for position determination in a cellular communications system
A scaling apparatus and method scales uncertainty criteria (horizontal and vertical accuracy requirements) originally received from an end user before the uncertainty criteria is sent on to a wireless terminal (30) as requirements on the accuracy of location positioning performed by/for the wireless terminal. In an example embodiment the amount/degree of scaling is selected according to a configured best estimate of the confidence and uncertainty relation, and such best estimate can be based on the majority of the terminals of the network. For a WCDMA radio access network (RAN) case the scaling can be performed in a radio network controller (RNC). For a Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio access network (RAN) case the scaling can be performed in the evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (eSMLC) node. In another case the scaling can alternatively be performed in the wireless terminal itself.
US09723583B2 Masterless slot allocation
An approach is provided for collaboratively synchronizing devices in an ad hoc network. Responsive to a transmission of a map by a first device to other device(s) listening to the first device, a second device determines the map, which allocates time slots to devices, indicates a conflict by which a same time slot is allocated to the second device and another device. The transmission is responsive to a determination that a Boolean value is true with a probability p if the first device is in an alive mode or a probability q if the first device is in a dormant mode, where p>q and q>0, and where p and q indicate respective likelihoods of performing the transmission. The second device resolves the conflict by allocating another time slot to the second device.
US09723581B2 Systems and methods for establishing synchronization across multiple networks and participating STAs via operations on a known common channel
Systems and methods for establishing synchronized operations on a data delivery network are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes receiving synchronization information for a neighbor aware network and for a second channel associated with a data delivery network (including a paging window for one of the networks), and receiving service data on the data delivery channels while maintaining synchronization on all data delivery channels using only the synchronization information from the neighbor aware network channel. The synchronization allows devices to increase efficiency by allowing them to sleep, wake-up, send or store data traffic, and receive or transmit indicators of stored data traffic, among other actions, in a coordinated manner such that the devices are awake at the same specified times (e.g., paging windows). Devices may then stay awake to receive or transmit traffic or sleep to conserve power if there is no traffic to send or receive.
US09723579B2 Traffic data integration method and traffic data integration apparatus
A traffic data integration method includes: obtaining, by using a computer, pieces of frame data having a same data pattern between first and second traffic data collected respectively by first and second capture devices that capture, as traffic data, frame data communicated by a node in a network; performing, by using the computer, a time correction process by which a time of each piece of frame data in the first and second traffic data is corrected so that capturing times of pieces of obtained frame data are identical; using, by using the computer, frame data for which a same data pattern does not appear repeatedly in a same capture device, as frame data for performing the time correction process; and restricting, by using the computer, a time difference of frame data used when the time correction process is performed.
US09723566B2 Interference cancellation
A method implemented in a wireless communications system including a first uplink (UL) client device, a second UL client device, a first downlink (DL) client device, and an access point (AP) is disclosed. The method comprises the following steps in this order: a) determining interference alignment (IA) solution between the first and second UL client devices and the first device; and b) determining, according to the IA solution, receive filter U0 for the AP and precoder V0 for the AP to improve a UL stream rate and a DL stream rate. Other methods, systems, and apparatuses also are disclosed.
US09723559B2 Wireless sensor unit communication triggering and management
Various embodiments of wireless ambient sensor unit are presented. The sensor unit may include a wireless transceiver configured to transmit sensor data and to receive instructions. The sensor unit may include a sensor configured to measure an ambient condition. The sensor unit may include a controller in communication with the wireless transceiver and the sensor. The controller may be configured to compare data measured about the ambient condition to a stored threshold while the wireless ambient sensor unit is functioning in a low-power mode. The controller may be configured to exit the low-power mode in response to the comparison of the data with the stored threshold. The controller may be configured to cause the data measured about the ambient condition to be transmitted by the wireless transceiver as one or more messages in response to the comparison to the stored threshold.
US09723557B2 Methods for reconnecting to a network
In a first embodiment, a method includes: entering a reduced communications performance environment, wherein a mobile device connected to a network loses connection to the network; attempting to reconnect to the network in the reduced performance environment without success; recording network connection attempt information; entering an improved performance environment, wherein the mobile device is reconnected to the network; and transmitting the network connection attempt information to a remote server. In a second embodiment, a method includes: consulting a network reconnection attempts profile previously sent from a cloud server to a mobile device; based on the network reconnections attempts profile, determining a network reconnection attempt schedule; and attempting to reconnect to the network according to the network reconnection attempt schedule until the mobile device is reconnected to the network.
US09723553B2 Method, network device, computer program and computer program product for determining a set of power state parameters
According to a first aspect, it is presented a method, performed by a network device, for determining a set of power state parameters at least partly defining when a wireless terminal is to be in an active state or a power saving state. The method comprises the steps of: obtaining at least one traffic characterization parameter; for each traffic flow, simulating a plurality of sets of power state parameters; obtaining at least one operational traffic characterization parameter; associating the operational traffic with a selected traffic flow; finding an applicable set of power state parameters by finding a set of power state parameters with a low cost, wherein the set of power state parameters are associated with the selected traffic flow; and sending the applicable set of power state parameters to the wireless terminal in operation. A corresponding network node, computer program and computer program product are also presented.
US09723546B2 Wireless communication device, non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, master device, and slave device
An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a wireless communication device that is capable of efficiently searching another wireless communication device that is capable of providing a required service. A master device, when the master device receives an advertisement from a slave device, transmits, to the slave device, a scan request that includes information on a requested service that the master device requires. The slave device, which has received the scan request, decides whether or not the slave device itself is capable of providing the requested services, and transmits, to the master device, a scan response that includes a result of the decision. When the decision result included in the scan response indicates that the slave device is capable of providing the requested service, the master device establishes a connection to the slave device.
US09723541B2 Priority access to a priority access channel
Techniques for priority access to a priority access channel are described. In at least some embodiments, a portion of the radio spectrum is divided into general access (GA) channels and priority access (PA) channels. Levels of access to the different channels are controlled based upon priority levels of devices attempting to access the channels. For instance, embodiments employ a channel database that tracks available GA channels and PA channels, and notifies various devices of the available channels. The channel database may also track keys for PA channels that enable authentication of devices for priority access to PA channels. In at least some embodiments, tracking available GA channels and PA channels enables underutilized radio channels to be identified for various uses, such as for wireless broadband communication.
US09723540B2 Bluetooth-enabled femto access control
A low-cost system and methodology that facilitates improved femto access control by employing Bluetooth® technology is provided. Bluetooth-based femto access control utilizes a Bluetooth modem in a femto access point (FAP) that broadcasts a unique Bluetooth identity (ID). Nearby UEs can detect the femtocell and employ the Bluetooth ID for idle mode reselection and active mode handover behavior. Specifically, on detecting a femtocell, a UE can perform Bluetooth pairing with the FAP prior to performing attachment signaling. Moreover, only if Bluetooth signaling is successful, the UE proceeds to attach to the FAP. Thus, the system and method disclosed herein can control the UEs that attach to the femtocell, thereby reducing the signaling load and improving battery life of the UEs.
US09723533B2 Method of handling radio link failure in wireless communication system based on multi-eNB connectivity and apparatus thereof
Methods and apparatuses are provided for performing multi-eNB connectivity communication. An eNB receives a Radio Link Failure (RLF) expected message related to a first link, from a UE. A target cell is sought for a handover of the UE according to the RLF expected message. The target cell is selected, when the target cell is found. The eNB receives, from the UE, an RLF message related to the first link, through a second link. An instruction for the handover to the selected target cell is transmitted to the UE.
US09723530B2 Apparatus and method for providing voice call continuity using different networks in wireless communication system
An apparatus and a method for providing call continuity in a wireless communication system are provided. The apparatus includes a first communication unit for setting a call with a counterpart terminal in a first network, a second communication unit for setting a call with the counterpart terminal in a second network while the call is set in the first network, and a control unit for terminating the call of the first network after the call setup is completed in the second network.
US09723527B2 Method and apparatus for back to back reselection scheduling upon cell reselection failure
Methods and apparatus for wireless communication for improving back to back cell reselection that includes establishing that cell reselection to a primary candidate cell has failed. Afterwards, a UE determines if a set of predetermined conditions have been triggered and schedules cell reselection to a secondary candidate based on whether the set of predetermined conditions have been triggered.
US09723521B2 Network handover method, terminal, controller, gateway, and system
A network handover method, a terminal, a controller, a gateway, and a system. The method includes: when a terminal accesses a first network, converting data including an initial TCP four-tuple into data including a first TCP four-tuple, and sending the data to a gateway; and after handing over from the first network to a second network, converting data including the initial TCP four-tuple into data including a second TCP four-tuple, and sending the data including the second TCP four-tuple to the gateway. This achieves objectives of preventing a connection from being interrupted before and after the network handover, improving use experience, and reducing complexity of a network handover process.
US09723520B1 Location based mode switching for dual mode mobile terminals
The present invention provides a dual mode mobile terminal that is capable of supporting both cellular and local wireless communications. The mobile terminal operates to determine when to switch between local wireless communication and cellular modes. To determine when to switch between local wireless and cellular modes, the mobile terminal determines its current location, uses the current location to obtain mode switching information, and switches modes as necessary based on the mode switching information.
US09723514B2 Method and arrangement in a wireless communication network
Method and arrangement in a first node for requesting a status report from a second node. The first node and the second node are both comprised within a wireless communication network. The status report comprises positive and/or negative acknowledgement of data sent from the first node, to be received by the second node. The first node comprises a first counter configured to count the number of transmitted Protocol Data Units, PDUs, and a second counter configured to count the number of transmitted data bytes. The method and arrangements comprises initialising the first and the second counter to zero, transmitting data to be received by the second node, comparing the value of the first and the second counters with a first threshold limit value and a second threshold limit value and requesting a status report from the second node if any of the threshold limit values is reached or exceeded.
US09723513B1 Method and apparatus for limiting a number of mobile devices that can contend for a time slot in a wireless network
A wireless device including a selection module configured to select a discovery window from a plurality of discovery windows in which to transmit a discovery frame, and a transmit module configured to transmit on average one discovery frame every predetermined number of discovery windows to reduce probability of collision in response to the one or more wireless devices competing for access to a channel. A discovery window is a time period in which (i) the wireless device and (ii) one or more wireless devices in a network are configured to transmit discovery frames to discover a service in the network prior to associating with each other. The discovery frame includes (i) a publish message to make information about capabilities and services of the wireless device available to other devices or (ii) a subscribe message to gather information about capabilities and services of other devices.
US09723507B2 Reducing rate of measurement cycles in subsequent discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles
A user device performs intra-frequency measurements and inter-frequency measurements at a specified rate when the user device in a first discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle, and determines a signal condition of a signal received from a serving cell. The user device selects one of multiple lower intra-frequency rates for intra-frequency measurements in subsequent DRX cycles based on the signal condition and selects one of multiple lower inter-frequency rates for inter-frequency measurements in the subsequent DRX cycles based on the signal condition. The reduction in the rate may reduce a current drain by the user device when the user device is in the subsequent DRX cycles.