US08435960B2
The present invention provides devices and compositions for the management of infection of topical lesions, each of the devices and compositions containing protonated/acidified nucleic acids either on its surface, or integrated into the device. These modified nucleic acids are effective as bactericidal and/or bacteriostatic agents without regard to the class of bacteria, so are especially useful when diagnosis is difficult or when multiple infectious organisms are present. The antibiotic activity of nucleic acids of the invention is not dependent on either the specific sequence of the nucleic acid or the length of the nucleic acid molecule. The nucleic acids used in the invention are protonated/acidified to give a pH when dissolved in water of less than pH 7 to about 1, more preferably less than pH 4.5 to about 1, and even more preferably less than pH 2 to about 1.
US08435954B2
An azapeptide derivative of growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) of Formula I: A-(Xaa)a-N(RA)—N(RB)—C(O)-(Xaa′)b-B which binds to CD 36.
US08435953B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a sustained release composition containing SDF-1. The present invention provides a sustained release composition containing (1) SDF-1 and (2) a hydrogel containing modified gelatin having a carboxyl group and/or a sulfo group. Since the composition can release SDF-1, a chemokine which is a capable of promoting accumulation of vascular progenitor cells in vivo, in the sustained manner, it can be useful for treatment and/or suppression of symptom progression of ischemic disease or bone disease, as pharmaceutical preparations in various formulations.
US08435952B2
The invention relates to methods and compositions for treating undifferentiated arthritis (UA) and/or preventing the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in subjects with UA by administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of soluble CTLA4 molecule.
US08435948B2
The invention discloses compositions and methods for decreasing osteoclast which are useful for the treatment of a variety of bone loss disorders.
US08435947B2
Compositions and methods for inhibiting the interaction between eNOS and β-actin are provided for use in inhibiting or reducing lung injury from oxygen toxicity. One embodiment provides a synthetic or recombinant polypeptide having the β-actin binding domain of eNOS, wherein the polypeptide inhibits or reduces eNOS activity in lung endothelial cells.
US08435943B2
The present invention is directed to stabilizing Bone Morphogenetic Protein in various lyophilized formulations and compositions. The present invention comprises formulations primarily including trehalose as an excipient for lyophilized compositions and their subsequent storage and reconstitution, and can also optionally include other excipients, including buffers and surfactants.
US08435935B2
A water-soluble pouch suitable for use in machine dishwashing and which comprises a plurality of compartments in generally superposed or superposable relationship, each containing one or more detergent active or auxiliary components, and wherein the pouch has a volume of from about 5 to about 70 ml and a longitudinal/transverse aspect ratio in the range from about 2:1 to about 1:8, preferably from about 1:1 to about 1:4. The water-soluble pouch allows for optimum delivery of dishwashing detergent. A process for the manufacture of multi-compartment pouches and a pack to contain the pouches are also disclosed.
US08435919B2
The mixed oxide of the invention mainly consists of cerium oxide and of at least one oxide of another rare earth. It has a specific surface area of at least 20 m2/g after calcining at 1000° C. for 5 hours. It is obtained by forming a liquid medium comprising a cerium compound; by heating this medium; by adding to the precipitate obtained a compound of the other rare earth, by heating the medium thus obtained and by bringing its pH to a basic value and by calcining the precipitate. The mixed oxide may be used as a catalyst support.
US08435909B2
The dual-zeolite catalyst for production of ethylbenzene is formed by mixing at least two different zeolites selected from mordenite, beta, ZSM-5, ZSM-11, ZSM-12, ZSM-22, ZSM-23, MFI topology zeolite, NES topology zeolite, EU-1, SAPO-5, SAPO-34, SAPO-11 and MAPO-36 zeolites and an inactive alumina binder. The two zeolites have different topology and possess dissimilar and unique physical and chemical characteristics, including particle size, surface area, pore size and acidity. The preferred amount of the two zeolites may range from 10 to 90 wt % of the total catalyst amount in the final dried and calcined form, preferably the zeolites are in equal parts by weight.
US08435900B2
The invention provides a method for manufacturing a transistor which includes: providing a substrate having a plurality of transistors formed thereon, wherein each transistor includes a gate; forming a stressed layer and a first oxide layer on the transistors and on the substrate successively; forming a sacrificial layer on the first oxide layer; patterning the sacrificial layer to remove a part of the sacrificial layer which covers on the gates of the transistors; forming a second oxide layer on the residual sacrificial layer and on a part of the first oxide layer which is exposed after the part of the sacrificial layer is removed; performing a first planarization process to remove a part of the second oxide layer located on the gates of the transistors; performing a second planarization process to remove the residual second oxide layer; and performing a third planarization process to remove the stressed layer.
US08435890B2
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device is described. The method comprises performing a gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) pre-treatment and/or post-treatment of at least a portion of a silicon-containing substrate during formation of a silicide region.
US08435887B2
Disclosed is a method which includes forming a copper interconnect within a trench or via in a substrate. Forming the copper interconnect includes forming a ruthenium-containing seed layer on a wall of the trench or via; forming a cobalt sacrificial layer on the ruthenium-containing layer before the ruthenium-containing seed layer being exposed to an environment that is oxidizing with respect to the seed layer; and contacting the cobalt sacrificial layer with a copper plating solution, the copper plating solution dissolving the cobalt sacrificial layer and plating out copper on the unoxidized ruthenium-containing seed layer. Alternatively, the ruthenium-containing seed layer may be replaced with platinum, tungsten nitride, titanium nitride or titanium or iridium. Further alternatively, the cobalt sacrificial layer may be replaced by tin, cadmium, copper or manganese.
US08435886B2
A method and apparatus are presented for reducing halide-based contamination within deposited titanium-based thin films. Halide adsorbing materials are utilized within the deposition chamber to remove halides, such as chlorine and chlorides, during the deposition process so that contamination of the titanium-based film is minimized. A method for regenerating the halide adsorbing material is also provided.
US08435876B2
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a lower film including a cell region and a peripheral circuit region, forming a first sacrificial film on the lower film, the first sacrificial film having trenches in the cell region, forming a second sacrificial pattern on the first sacrificial film, the second sacrificial pattern having line-shaped patterns spaced apart from each other and crossing the trenches in the cell region, and the second sacrificial pattern covering a top surface of the first sacrificial film in the peripheral circuit region, and patterning the first sacrificial film to form upper holes in portions of the trenches exposed by the second sacrificial pattern.
US08435866B2
At least one single crystal substrate, each having a backside surface and made of silicon carbide, and a supporting portion having a main surface and made of silicon carbide, are prepared. In this preparing step, at least one of the backside surface and main surface is formed by machining. By this forming step, a surface layer having distortion in the crystal structure is formed on at least one of the backside surface and main surface. The surface layer is removed at least partially. Following this removing step, the backside surface and main surface are connected to each other.
US08435864B2
A method of fabricating a MIM capacitor is provided. The method includes providing a substrate including a dielectric layer formed on a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer formed over the dielectric layer, and patterning a mask on the second conductive layer. Exposed portions of the second conductive layer are removed to form an upper plate of a MIM capacitor having edges substantially aligned with respective edges of the mask. The upper plate is undercut so that edges of the upper plate are located under the mask. Exposed portions of the dielectric layer and the first conductive layer are removed using the mask to form a capacitor dielectric layer and a lower plate of the MIM capacitor having edges substantially aligned with respective edges of the mask.
US08435863B2
A reverse-conducting semiconductor device (RC-IGBT) including a freewheeling diode and an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), and a method for making the RC-IGBT are provided. A first layer of a first conductivity type is created on a collector side before a second layer of a second conductivity type is created on the collector side. An electrical contact in direct electrical contact with the first and second layers is created on the collector side. A shadow mask is applied on the collector side, and a third layer of the first conductivity type is created through the shadow mask. At least one electrically conductive island, which is part of a second electrical contact in the finalized RC-IGBT, is created through the shadow mask. The island is used as a mask for creating the second layer, and those parts of the third layer which are covered by the island form the second layer.
US08435859B2
Some embodiments include methods of forming electrical contacts. A row of semiconductor material projections may be formed, with the semiconductor material projections containing repeating components of an array, and with a terminal semiconductor projection of the row comprising a contact location. An electrically conductive line may be along said row, with the line wrapping around an end of said terminal semiconductor projection and bifurcating into two branches that are along opposing sides of the semiconductor material projections. Some of the semiconductor material of the terminal semiconductor projection may be replaced with dielectric material, and then an opening may be extended into the dielectric material. An electrical contact may be formed within the opening and directly against at least one of the branches. Some embodiments include memory arrays.
US08435847B2
A semiconductor device and a method for fabricating the same are disclosed. A fin of the semiconductor device including a fin-shaped channel region is configured in the form of a non-uniform structure, and a leakage current caused by the electric field effect generated in the semiconductor device is prevented from being generated, resulting in an increased operation stability of the semiconductor device.
US08435841B2
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device begins by fabricating an n-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) transistor structure on a semiconductor wafer. The method continues by forming an optically reflective layer overlying the NMOS transistor structure, forming a layer of tensile stress inducing material overlying the optically reflective layer, and curing the layer of tensile stress inducing material by applying ultraviolet radiation. Some of the ultraviolet radiation directly radiates the layer of tensile stress inducing material and some of the ultraviolet radiation radiates the layer of tensile stress inducing material by reflecting from the optically reflective layer.
US08435834B2
A semiconductor die has a conductive layer including a plurality of trace lines formed over a carrier. The conductive layer includes a plurality of contact pads electrically continuous with the trace lines. A semiconductor die has a plurality of contact pads and bumps formed over the contact pads. A plurality of conductive pillars can be formed over the contact pads of the semiconductor die. The bumps are formed over the conductive pillars. The semiconductor die is mounted to the conductive layer with the bumps directly bonded to an end portion of the trace lines to provide a fine pitch interconnect. An encapsulant is deposited over the semiconductor die and conductive layer. The conductive layer contains wettable material to reduce die shifting during encapsulation. The carrier is removed. An interconnect structure is formed over the encapsulant and semiconductor die. An insulating layer can be formed over the conductive layer.
US08435826B1
A method for forming a thin film photovoltaic device. The method includes providing a transparent substrate comprising a surface region and forming a first electrode layer overlying the surface region. The method forms a bulk copper indium disulfide material from a multi-layered structure comprising a copper species, an indium species, and a sulfur species overlying the first electrode layer. The bulk copper indium disulfide material comprises one or more portions of a copper poor copper indium disulfide material, a copper poor surface regions, and one or more portions of a sulfur deficient copper indium disulfide material characterized by at least a CuInS2-x species, where 0
US08435823B2
According to one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a back-illuminated solid-state imaging device including forming a mask with apertures corresponding to a pixel pattern on the surface of a semiconductor layer, implanting second-conductivity-type impurity ions into the semiconductor layer from the front side of the layer to form second-conductivity-type photoelectric conversion parts and forming a part where no ion has been implanted into a pixel separation region, forming at the surface of the semiconductor layer a signal scanning circuit for reading light signals obtained at the photoelectric conversion parts after removing the mask, and removing the semiconductor substrate and a buried insulating layer from the semiconductor layer after causing a support substrate to adhere to the front side of the semiconductor layer.
US08435822B2
A method for forming a thin film photovoltaic device having patterned electrode films includes providing a soda lime glass substrate with an overlying lower electrode layer comprising a molybdenum material. The method further includes subjecting the lower electrode layer with one or more pulses of electromagnetic radiation from a laser source to ablate one or more patterns associated with one or more berm structures from the lower electrode layer. Furthermore, the method includes processing the lower electrode layer comprising the one or more patterns using a mechanical brush device to remove the one or more berm structures followed by treating the lower electrode layer comprising the one or more patterns free from the one or more berm structures. The method further includes forming a layer of photovoltaic material overlying the lower electrode layer and forming a first zinc oxide layer overlying the layer of photovoltaic material.
US08435821B2
A sensor and method for fabricating a sensor is disclosed that in one embodiment bonds an etched semiconductor substrate wafer to an etched device wafer comprising a silicon on insulator wafer to create a suspended structure, the flexure of which is determined by an embedded sensing element to measure absolute pressure. Interconnect channels embedded in the sensor facilitate streamlined packaging of the device while accommodating interconnectivity with other devices.
US08435814B2
A method for fabricating a LCD having enhanced aperture ratio and brightness includes: forming a gate line, a gate electrode, a common electrode and a common line in a first mask process; depositing a gate insulating layer covering the gate line, the gate electrode and the common electrode; forming an active layer on the gate insulating layer, and an ohmic contact layer on the active layer in a second mask process; forming a data line, a source electrode, and a drain electrode facing the source electrode in a third mask process; depositing a protective layer over the data line, the source electrode and the drain electrode; forming a pixel contact hole in a fourth mask process; and forming a pixel electrode, wherein the pixel electrode is connected to the drain electrode through the pixel contact hole in a fifth mask process using a reverse tapered photo-resist pattern.
US08435813B2
Provided is a light emitting device and a method of manufacturing the same. The light emitting device comprises a transparent substrate, an n-type compound semiconductor layer formed on the transparent substrate, an active layer, a p-type compound semiconductor layer, and a p-type electrode sequentially formed on a first region of the n-type compound semiconductor layer, and an n-type electrode formed on a second region separated from the first region of the n-type compound semiconductor layer, wherein the p-type electrode comprises first and second electrodes, each electrode having different resistance and reflectance.
US08435804B2
A method for producing a lamina from a donor body includes implanting the donor body with an ion dosage and separably contacting the donor body with a susceptor assembly, where the donor body and the susceptor assembly are in direct contact. A lamina is exfoliated from the donor body, and a deforming force is applied to the lamina or to the donor body to separate the lamina from the donor body.
US08435802B2
A semiconductor device is prepared by an annealing process to interconnect at least two components of the device by a conductor line surrounded by an insulator material. The annealing process results in formation of residual stresses within the conductor line and the insulator material. A notch is designed in the layout on a selective portion of the mask for patterning conductor line. The existence of a shape of notch on the selective portion generates extra stress components within the conductor line than if without the existence of the notch. The position of the notch is selected so that the extra stress components substantially counteract the residual stresses, thereby causing a net reduction in the residual stresses. The reduction in the residual stresses results in a corresponding mechanical stress migration and therefore improvement in the reliability of the device.
US08435801B2
The present invention comprises compositions and methods for making monoclonal antibodies. The present invention further comprises vectors that replicate the immune system components, particularly an antigen-presenting cell (APC) element of the immune synapse. Additionally, the present invention may further comprise synthetic T-cells.
US08435799B2
The disclosure features methods of analyzing preparations of heparin, and materials derived from heparin using strong anion exchange high performance liquid chromatography (SAX-HPLC).
US08435792B2
Aspects of the invention include methods for enhancing blood coagulation in a subject. In practicing methods according to certain embodiments, an amount of a non-anticoagulant sulfated polysaccharide (NASP) is administered to a subject to enhance blood coagulation in the subject. Also provided are methods for preparing a NASP composition having blood coagulation enhancing activity. Compositions and kits for practicing methods of the invention are also described.
US08435787B2
Alginate polyelectrolyte encapsulation is used for the controlled differentiation of embryonic stem cells. An isolated cell population is provided. The cell population includes a single cell suspension of ES cells encapsulated within an alginate polyelectrolyte microenvironment. The encapsulated ES cells are capable of differentiating within said microenvironment into hepatocyte lineage cells in the absence of embryoid body intermediates or growth factor supplementation.
US08435785B2
This invention relates to the culture of dendritic cells from human embryonic stem (ES) cells. Human ES cells are first cultured into hematopoietic cells by co-culture with stromal cells. The cells now differentiated into the hematopoietic lineage are then cultured with GM-CSF to create a culture of myeloid precursor cells. Culture of the myeloid precursor cells with the cytokines GM-CSF and IL-4 causes functional dendritic cells to be generated. The dendritic cells have a unique phenotype, as indicated by their combination of cell surface markers.
US08435770B2
One aspect of the invention relates to a genetically modified thermophilic or mesophilic microorganism, wherein a first native gene is partially, substantially, or completely deleted, silenced, inactivated, or down-regulated, which first native gene encodes a first native enzyme involved in the metabolic production of an organic acid or a salt thereof, thereby increasing the native ability of said thermophilic or mesophilic microorganism to produce ethanol as a fermentation product. In certain embodiments, the aforementioned microorganism further comprises a first non-native gene, which first non-native gene encodes a first non-native enzyme involved in the metabolic production of ethanol. Another aspect of the invention relates to a process for converting lignocellulosic biomass to ethanol, comprising contacting lignocellulosic biomass with a genetically modified thermophilic or mesophilic microorganism.
US08435769B2
The present invention provides methods for producing shikimic acid. In particular the invention provides methods for producing and isolating shikimic acid from a microorganism. Additionally, the invention provides methods for synthesizing compounds such as oseltamivir and 6-fluoroshikimic acid using shikimic acid produced from microorganisms.
US08435759B2
The present invention provides a novel isolated plasmid, wherein the plasmid is a native plasmid found in unique C. botulinum type A strains and encode either BoNT/A3 or BoNT/A4 and BoNT/B. The present invention also provides a method of obtaining a plasmid-encoded botulinum neurotoxin and botulinum neurotoxin complex comprising the step of isolating a plasmid encoding the cntA/A or cntA/B neurotoxin gene and genes encoding protein components of the toxin complex from a C. botulinum type A strain. The inventors performed comparative analyzes of representative BoNT/A subtype strains by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and Southern hybridizations with probes specific for the BoNT/A and B genes, cntA/A and cntA/B. Unexpectedly, the inventors determined that the genes encoding BoNT/A3 in the A3 strain, and BoNT/A4 and BoNT/B in the A4 strain, are on plasmids.
US08435754B2
The present invention provides for a method of using BOC/CDO hedgehog antagonists to inhibit hedgehog signaling, as well as treating and diagnosing disorders relating to hedgehog signaling or overexpression of hedgehog, including cancer, cell proliferative disorders, and angiogenesis, neurological disorders, as well as other conditions affected by hedgehog signaling such as hair growth, neural stem cell differentiation, chondrogenesis and osteogenesis, lung surfactant production, formation of lamellated bodies in lung cells.
US08435749B2
The present invention relates to anti-CDH3 antibodies, which can be labeled with a radioisotope. Moreover, the present invention provides methods and pharmaceutical compositions that comprise an anti-CDH3 antibody as an active ingredient. Since CDH3 is strongly expressed in pancreatic, lung, colon, prostate, breast, gastric or liver cancer cells, the present invention is useful in pancreatic, lung, colon, prostate, breast, gastric or liver cancer therapies.
US08435741B2
An object to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a nucleic acid amplification method by which a nucleic acid can be amplified substantially isothermally using oligonucleotide primers and DNA polymerase capable of strand displacement. The present invention provides a nucleic acid amplification method which comprises performing substantially isothermal incubation of a reaction solution containing at least one type of deoxynucleotide triphosphate, at least one type of DNA polymerase having strand displacement activity, a divalent cation, at least 0.01% or more surfactant, at least two types of oligonucleotide primer, and the nucleic acid fragment as a template so as to perform a polymerase reaction that initiates from the 3′ end of the primer and thus amplifying the nucleic acid fragment.
US08435730B2
A semen extender composition is provided. The semen extender composition includes a sperm cell protecting amount of phospholipid, an effective amount of surfactant to reduce ice crystal formation during freezing of the composition; a carbohydrate, and a biological buffer to provide a semen extender use solution having a pH of between about 6.9 and about 7.5, and wherein the use solution exhibits an osmolality of about 250 mOsM to about 350 mOsM. Methods for manufacturing and using a semen extender composition are provided.
US08435728B2
A method and system for patterning a substrate using a radiation-sensitive material is described. The method and system include forming a layer of radiation-sensitive material on a substrate, exposing the layer of radiation-sensitive material to a pattern of radiation, and then performing a post-exposure bake following the exposing. The imaged layer of radiation-sensitive material is then developed to remove either a region having high radiation exposure or a region having low radiation exposure to form radiation-sensitive material lines. An exposure gradient within the radiation-sensitive material lines is then removed, followed by slimming the radiation-sensitive material lines.
US08435725B2
A method for interlaminating a transparent embossed hologram, the transparent embossed hologram comprising a support having two sides, at least one of the two sides either itself being embossed or having a layer thereon which is embossed and a layer of a HRI-material contiguous with the embossed side or embossed layer, comprising the steps of: a) conditioning the outermost surface of the layer of inorganic HRI-material with at least one organic liquid; b) drying the outermost surface of the layer of the inorganic HRI-material thereby providing a conditioned outermost surface of the layer of inorganic HRI-material; c) applying an adhesive layer to the conditioned outermost surface; and d) laminating the outermost surface of inorganic HRI-material to an optionally transparent film, wherein the at least one organic liquid is selected from the group consisting of ketones, ethers, heterocyclic ethers, lactams, amides, halo-aliphatic compounds, nitriles and esters; wherein at least one of the support and the film is transparent; and wherein the HRI-material is a material with a refractive index of at least 0.3 higher than that of the embossed material. A laminate obtainable with the above-mentioned methods and an identity document comprising the laminate are also disclosed.
US08435724B2
In a fabricating method of a touch screen panel, a conductive layer and an insulating layer are sequentially formed on a same surface of a transparent substrate. The conductive layer and the insulating layer are co-patterned using a halftone mask to form first connection patterns having separated patterns and the insulating layer being patterned on the first connection patterns to expose regions of the first connection patterns. A transparent electrode layer is formed on the transparent substrate having the first connection patterns and the insulating layer. The transparent electrode layer is patterned to form first sensing patterns connected to the first connection patterns through the exposed regions of the first connection patterns and connected along a first direction, and to form second sensing patterns disposed between the first sensing patterns, wherein the second sensing patterns are insulated from the first sensing patterns and connected along a second direction.
US08435723B2
A pattern forming method includes coating, on a wafer, a negative resist and a positive resist which has a higher sensitivity; exposing the positive resist and the negative resist on the wafer with an image of a line-and-space pattern; and developing the positive resist and the negative resist in a direction parallel to a normal line of a surface of the wafer. A fine pattern, which exceeds the resolution limit of an exposure apparatus, can be formed by using the lithography process without performing the overlay exposure.
US08435720B2
A lithographic printing plate precursor includes, in the following order: a support; an image-recording layer which is capable of forming an image by removing an unexposed area of the image-recording layer with at least one of printing ink and dampening water on a printing machine after exposure and contains an infrared absorbing dye, a polymerization initiator, a polymerizable compound and a binder polymer having an alkylene oxide group; and a protective layer containing a hydrophilic polymer which contains at least a repeating unit represented by the formula (1) as defined herein, a repeating unit represented by the formula (2) as defined herein, and a repeating unit represented by the formula (4) as defined herein, and in which a content of the repeating unit represented by the formula (4) is from 0.3 to 5.0% by mole based on total repeating units of the hydrophilic polymer.
US08435718B2
An upper layer-forming composition includes a resin, and a solvent. The resin is dissolvable in a developer for a photoresist film which is to be covered by the upper layer-forming composition to form a pattern by exposure to radiation. The solvent dissolves the resin in the solvent. The solvent includes a compound shown by a formula (1). Each of R1 and R2 independently represents a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or a halogenated hydrocarbon group. R1—O—R2 (1)
US08435717B2
A sulfonic acid onium salt represented by the following formula (1) can be used as a superior radiosensitive acid generator for resist compositions. It is possible to form a good pattern by using a resist composition containing this sulfonic acid onium salt. In formula (1), R1 represents a monovalent organic group, and Q+ represents a sulfonium cation or iodonium cation.
US08435714B2
A process for making toner particles is provided. In embodiments, a suitable process includes melt mixing a resin in the absence of an organic solvent, optionally adding a surfactant to the resin, adding to the resin at least one colorant and other optional toner additives, adding to the resin a basic agent and water to form a mixture, and subjecting the mixture to acoustic mixing at a suitable frequency to form to form an emulsion. A phase inversion may then be performed to create a phase inversed emulsion including a disperse phase comprising molten resin and the optional ingredients of the toner composition, at which time toner-sized droplets may be solidified from the disperse phase into toner particles, which can be recovered for use.
US08435712B2
The use of electrographic printing to prepare prints which have a desired tactile feel or raised information in a controlled manner by utilizing a developer having toner particle size larger than 50 microns volume average diameter and carrier particles larger than the toner particle size such that the volume average distribution overlap between the toner distribution curve and carrier particle distribution curve is less than 35% and the carrier and toner particles have a volume average diameter size differential equal to or greater than 5 microns or the ratio of carrier-to-toner volume average diameter exceeds 1.25.
US08435711B2
A toner comprising toner particles which comprise binder resin and colorant, wherein the binder resin is made from latexes which comprise a low molecular weight (LMW) latex of resin particles having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) less than 50,000 and a medium molecular weight (MMW) latex of resin particles having a Mw from 50,000 to 500,000, wherein the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the resin particles of the LMW latex is not greater than 52° C.
US08435704B2
In a mask blank for manufacturing a transfer mask adapted to exposure light having a wavelength of 200 nm or less, the mask blank has a light-shielding film on a transparent substrate. The light-shielding film is made of a material containing tantalum as a main metal component and includes a highly oxidized layer which has an oxygen content of 60 at % or more and which is formed as a surface layer of the light-shielding film, that is placed on a side opposite to a transparent substrate side.
US08435703B2
There is provided a pellicle having a rectangular pellicle frame formed of four side bars, having a through hole made through at least one of the frame bars for adjusting a pressure of a space formed within the pellicle frame equal to a pressure outside the pellicle frame; and a filter member disposed to cover up an external opening of the through hole for preventing entrance of particles into the space, wherein the through hole is formed with: (1) an outer stepped portion defining a first recess, opening outside the pellicle frame, for accommodating the filter member, (2) an inner stepped portion defining a second recess, opening in a bottom of the first recess, and (3) a ventilation hole with one end opening in a bottom of the second recess of the inner stepped portion and the other end opening in the space within the pellicle frame.
US08435701B2
A composition for holographic recording is provided, comprising an inert polyphenyl ether binder capable of supporting radical polymerization, wherein the inert binder is substantially transparent in visible light, and is viscous at room temperature; a photopolymerizable part comprising a matrix forming component comprising at least one radically photopolymerizable multifunctional (meth)acrylic oligomer or monomer, and a radically polymerizable recording component; and a photoinitiation system capable of initiating radical polymerization.
US08435700B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell system configured to be able to suppress loads imposed on a liner caused by gas filling, as well as a method for supplying fuel gas in the fuel cell system, and a mobile body. The fuel cell system includes a fuel cell, a tank which includes a liner and a reinforcement layer formed on an outer peripheral surface of the liner and in which fuel gas is stored, an adjustment device configured to adjust a supply amount of fuel gas to be fed from the tank to the fuel cell, an information acquisition section configured to acquire information on a pressure and a temperature in the tank, a calculation section configured to calculate a gap amount between the liner and the reinforcement layer based on information acquired by the information acquisition section during operation of the fuel cell system, and a decision section configured to decide whether or not to limit the supply amount based on the calculated gap amount.
US08435699B2
A fuel cartridge capable of supplying two fuels to an anode of a fuel cell body without using a pump, a direct methanol fuel cell having the same, and a method of purging a direct methanol fuel cell using the fuel cartridge, fuel cartridge according to one exemplary embodiment comprising a first storage unit having a first port for entrance and exit of a fluid and storing a liquid first fuel; and a second storage unit having a second port for entrance and exit of a fluid and filling a second fuel at a constant pressure, wherein the first fuel is discharged into the first port by the pressure of the second fuel.
US08435687B2
A contactor electrically connects and disconnects a fuel cell from a load. When a failure-detecting mode for detecting a closing failure of a contactor is initiated, an opening command is transmitted to the contactor, and a DC/DC converter connected to a motor changes the load voltage. Then, the load voltage and a fuel cell voltage are compared with each other. If the contactor is in a normal open state, as a result of the opening command, the fuel cell voltage is constant, whereas the load voltage of the DC/DC converter decreases, thereby producing a voltage difference. A closing failure of the contactor is determined when it is detected that the fuel cell voltage is substantially equal to the load voltage.
US08435683B2
The present teachings relate to solid oxide fuel cells with internal reforming capability. The solid oxide fuel cell generally includes a cathode, an electrolyte, an anode, and a catalyst layer in contact with the anode. The catalyst layer can include a support membrane and a reforming catalyst layer associated with the support membrane. In some embodiments, the reforming catalyst can include one or more partial oxidation reforming catalysts. The present teachings also provide methods of making and operating the solid oxide fuel cells described above.
US08435680B2
A rechargeable lithium battery including: a positive electrode including a nickel-based positive active material; a negative electrode including a negative active material; and an electrolyte including a non-aqueous organic solvent, a lithium salt, a first fluoroethylene carbonate additive, a second vinylethylene carbonate additive, and a third alkane sultone additive, wherein when the battery is thicker than about 5mm, a mixing weight ratio of the first fluoroethylene carbonate additive to the second vinylethylene carbonate additive ranges from about 5:1 to about 10:1, or when the battery is thinner than about 5 mm, the mixing weight ratio of the first fluoroethylene carbonate additive to the second vinylethylene carbonate additive ranges from about 1:1 to about 4:1.
US08435675B2
Disclosed is a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprising a positive electrode containing a nickel-containing lithium composite oxide, a negative electrode containing graphite, and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The cut-off voltage of charge of this non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery is 4.25 to 4.6 V. The negative electrode contains an additive that reacts with lithium at a potential higher than the potential of graphite. The ratio A/B of a positive electrode capacity A based on the weight of the nickel-containing lithium composite oxide and the cut-off voltage of charge relative to a weight B of the graphite contained in a portion of a negative electrode material mixture layer opposing to a positive electrode material mixture layer is 300 to 340 mAh/g, and the irreversible capacity C of the positive electrode and the irreversible capacity D of the negative electrode in the portion opposing to the positive electrode satisfies C≧D.
US08435674B2
A lithium battery includes a cathode; an anode; and an organic electrolyte solution. The cathode includes cathode active materials that discharge oxygen during charging and discharging. The organic electrolyte solution includes: lithium salt; an organic solvent, and at least one selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by Formula 1 and Formula 2 below: P(R1)a(OR2)b Formula 1 O═P(R1)a(OR2)b. Formula 2 R1 is each independently a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C20 alkyl group or a substituted or unsubstituted C6-C30 aryl group. R2 is each independently a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C20 alkyl group or a substituted or unsubstituted C6-C30 aryl group. a and b are each independently in a range of about 0 to about 3 and a+b=3.
US08435672B2
The invention provides a lithium ion secondary battery comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode and an electrolysis solution containing an aprotic solvent having an electrolyte dissolved in it, wherein the negative electrodes uses an amorphous carbon material as a negative electrode active material. The amorphous carbon material has (A) an average particle diameter (median size) of 7 μm to 20 μm inclusive as measured by a laser diffraction scattering method and (B) a particle size distribution as measured by a laser diffraction scattering method, in which distribution the ratio of particles of less than 3 μm in diameter is 1% by mass to 10% mass inclusive, and is free of an electrical conducting material.
US08435669B2
An electro-chemical device comprises a package including a metal film, a battery element sealed within the package, resin layers disposed at least on the inside of a seal part of the package, and a lead extending from the battery element to the outside of the package through between the resin layers at the seal part of the package. The lead has a special form into which the resin of the resin layers bites, so that the lead is firmly buried in the resin layers, whereby the lead is fully inhibited from moving. Therefore, an electro-chemical device having a high quality can be obtained.
US08435666B2
Disclosed herein is a battery module including a plurality of battery cells mounted in a module case in a stacked state, wherein cooling members are mounted at interfaces between the battery cells, the module case is configured in a structure in which two opposite sides of the module case are open so that corresponding portions of the battery cell stack are exposed outward through the two open opposite sides of the module case, the cooling members are partially exposed outward through the two open opposite sides of the module case, and a coolant flows along the two open opposite sides of the module case while contacting the outwardly exposed portions of the cooling members.
US08435664B2
A battery system including battery blocks (3) having a plurality of battery cells (1) stacked with cooling gaps (4) established between the battery cells to pass cooling gas; ventilating ducts (5), which are supply ducts (6) and exhaust ducts (7), disposed on both sides of the battery blocks to forcibly ventilate the cooling gaps; and ventilating apparatus (9) to force cooling gas to flow through the ventilating ducts. Cooling gas forcibly introduced by the ventilating apparatus flows from the supply ducts through the cooling gaps and into the exhaust ducts to cool the battery cells. In addition, the battery system has temperature equalizing walls (8) disposed in the supply ducts. The temperature equalizing walls are long and narrow with length in the direction of flow greater than the width, and each temperature equalizing wall gradually narrows towards the upstream end.
US08435660B2
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode group in a case, the electrode group including a first electrode and a second electrode, a cap plate coupled to the case, an electrode terminal electrically connected to the first electrode, the electrode terminal being electrically insulated from the cap plate, and a current interrupt device (CID) electrically connected to the second electrode and the cap plate, the CID including a membrane on a first surface of the cap plate, the membrane being between and electrically connecting the second electrode and the cap plate, and the membrane being configured to interrupt the electrical connection when a voltage greater than a setting voltage is charged, a first insulator contacting the first surface of the cap plate and at least one surface of the membrane to support the membrane, and a fastening member connecting the cap plate and the first insulator.
US08435658B2
A sealed cell has a sealing body with a space-saving safety valve that has excellent safety. The sealing body includes a terminal cap and a safety valve. The terminal cap includes one or more gas releasing holes for releasing a gas from inside to outside of the cell. The gas releasing holes are provided in the external terminal. A safety valve includes a conductive contact portion projecting toward an inside of the sealed cell, a peripheral portion in a periphery of the conductive contact portion, and one or more break grooves formed radially in the peripheral portion. At least one of the gas releasing holes overlap with at least one of break grooves in planar view of the sealed cell.
US08435656B2
A secondary battery including a first bare cell, a second bare cell disposed to face at least a portion of the first bare cell, and a protection circuit module including a circuit board having an electrical circuit device mounted thereon and at least one connection tab between the first and second bare cells, the connection tab electrically connecting the circuit board to the first and second bare cells.
US08435654B2
The invention relates to bit patterned recording media having a stop layer for chemical mechanical polishing. One embodiment of the present invention is a method of manufacturing a magnetic recording medium comprising the step of planarizing by chemical mechanical polishing until the stop layer is reached. The present invention also provides a magnetic recording medium having a stop layer.
US08435643B2
The present invention provides antisapstain compositions comprising a haloalkynyl compound, an azole and an unsaturated carboxylic or sulphonic acid. The compositions of the invention are surprisingly effective at protecting wood and other cellulosic substrates, in particular at providing antisapstain activity. The invention also provides methods for treating wood and other cellulosic substrates with said compositions.
US08435635B2
A method is disclosed. The method includes obtaining a precursor nanoparticle comprising a base material and a first ligand attached to the base material, and reacting the precursor nanoparticle with a reactant comprising a silicon bond, thereby removing the first ligand.
US08435619B2
An information recording medium (9) of the present invention is an information recording medium with respect to which information can be recorded or reproduced by irradiation with an optical beam (1). The information recording medium (9) includes a second interface layer (103), a recording layer (104) and a first interface layer (105) in this order from the optical beam (1) incident side. The first interface layer (105) and the second interface layer (103) are disposed in contact with the recording layer (104). The second interface layer (103) contains M1 (where M1 is at least one element selected from Nb, Y, Dy, Ti, Si and Al), Cr and oxygen (O). The first interface layer (105) contains M2 (where M2 is at least one element selected from Nb, Y, Dy, Ti, Si, Al, Zr and Hf), Cr and oxygen (O). The first interface layer (105) and the second interface layer (103) each contain Cr in a range of 50 mol % or less in terms of the oxide (Cr2O3).
US08435608B1
Provided are plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition methods of depositing smooth and conformal ashable hard mask films on substrates containing raised or recessed features. The methods involve using precursors having relatively high C:H ratios, such as acetylene (C:H ratio of 1), and plasmas having low ion energies and fluxes. According to various embodiments, the methods involve depositing smooth ashable hard mask films using high frequency radio frequency-generated plasmas with no low frequency component and/or relatively high pressures (e.g., 2-5 Torr). Also provided are methods of depositing ashable hard mask films having good selectivity and improved side wall coverage and roughness. The methods involve depositing a first ashable hard mask film on a substrate having a feature using a process optimized for selectivity and/or optical properties and then depositing a smoothing layer on the first ashable hard mask film using an HF-only process.
US08435602B1
Disclosed is a method of applying to stainless steel a protective coating effective in increasing oxidation resistance, the method includes cleaning and pre-oxidizing in hot dry air, cooling and coating the cooled stainless steel with nanocrystalline ceria particles doped with a lanthanide metal. Cleaning may include ultrasound and optionally polishing. Cooling is conducted in air and coating is preferably effected by dipping the stainless steel into a composition containing the nanocrystalline ceria particles. The invention includes a coating effective for retarding oxidation of stainless steel, the coating comprising nanocrystalline ceria particles doped with a lanthanide, a preferred lanthanide being lanthanum and preferred nanocrystalline ceria particles are approximately 3 nm in size and contain from about 2 to 40 atom % of the dopant.
US08435601B2
Disclosed is a method of forming carbon nanotubes on a conductor that covers a portion of a substrate, the method includes depositing a mesh-like conductive member made of Mo or the like on a substrate made of glass or the like, forming a catalyst support, such as Al2O3, and a catalyst such as Fe or Co on the conductive member, placing the substrate in a carbon-source gas atmosphere, and generating heat with the conductive member for a short period of time to grow nanotubes while avoiding damage to the substrate.
US08435599B1
A method of manufacturing a granule coated asphaltic article is disclosed. The method includes applying molten asphalt to a reinforcement to create an asphaltic sheet, the asphaltic sheet having a top surface and a bottom surface. Next, the asphaltic sheet is bent to form an arcuated top surface of the sheet. The method concludes by applying a plurality of granules to the arcuated top surface of the asphaltic sheet.
US08435597B2
A method of manufacturing a diamond UV sensor element improved with a UV/visible light blind ratio using a diamond single crystal as a light receiving portion and detecting a light based on the change of electric resistance caused by a light irradiated to the light receiving portion is provided, the method, including (1) a step of hydrogenating the surface of the diamond single crystal in an atmosphere substantially containing hydrogen, and (2) a step of forming a light receiving portion by exposing the hydrogenated surface of the diamond single crystal into an atmosphere containing ozone or active oxygen.
US08435594B2
An evaporation apparatus that is capable of stably forming a good quality thin film and is highly suitable for mass production is provided. The evaporation apparatus include an evaporation source discharging an evaporation material by heating, a retention member retaining an evaporation object, and a heat shield member that is located between the evaporation source and the evaporation object retained by the retention member, has an opening for passing the evaporation material in a state of vapor phase from the evaporation source to the evaporation object, and shields the evaporation object from part of radiation heat of the evaporation source. The heat shield member is located closer to the evaporation source than to the retention member.
US08435583B2
An improved production process for preparing parfried and frozen French fry potato products with reduced crumb generation particularly upon finish preparation as by finish frying. Potato products such as French fry strips are cut, blanched and parfried, followed by a water treatment step as by applying a light spray or mist of water at ambient temperature and preferably at a rate selected to avoid any substantial overspray. The potato products are frozen for shipment and/or storage awaiting finish preparation. Upon finish preparation as by finish frying in hot oil, the potato products exhibit substantially reduced crumb generation. The improved process is particularly useful when parfrying and/or finish frying the potato products in a liquid or substantially non-hydrogenated oil, such as a zero grams Trans Fat (ZGTF) oil, with dramatically reduced crumb generation upon finish fry preparation while retaining a substantially optimized balance of sensory characteristics.
US08435578B1
Methods and systems to prepare yeasted dough products, such as breads, include inhibiting yeast activity prior to a first rise, conducting the first rise over an extended rise time, inhibiting yeast activity between the first rise and a second rise, and conducting the second rise over an accelerated second rise time. Inhibiting of yeast activity may include maintaining one or more of a liquid ingredient and a dough at a relatively cool temperature. The first rise may include maintaining the dough at a relatively cool temperature to restrict or retard yeast activity. Inhibiting of yeast activity prior to the first rise and/or retarding yeast activity during the extended first rise may improve one or more of flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance of a resultant baked good.
US08435577B2
The present invention relates to alpha-amylases, nucleic acids encoding the alpha-amylases, methods of producing the alpha-amylases, and methods of using the alpha-amylases.
US08435571B2
The invention relates to plant extracts, especially based on species of the genus Agapanthus and combinations thereof with other extracts deriving from other plants. The invention further relates to the isolation, purification and identification of compounds in these extracts. The plant extracts and the isolated substances show significant antimicrobial activity, especially antifungal activity, and bio-stimulatory efficacy, when applied to other plants in vitro and in vivo, including under field conditions. The products according to this invention are suitable to be used as plant protecting agents for many crops and economic plants as an alternative for chemical pesticides.
US08435570B1
Compositions comprising a nitrite salt, a nitrate salt, and ascorbic acid are provided in several embodiments. A method of enhancing cardiovascular performance or treating adverse cardiovascular event in a mammal is also provided.
US08435568B2
The present invention provides a method of treating or inhibiting at least one of allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis, or of reducing, inhibiting or treating allergy like symptoms. The methods use compositions comprising chlorite, chloride, chlorate and/or sulfate ions.
US08435566B2
Bone matrix compositions and, more specifically, demineralized bone matrix (DBM) having increased osteoinductive capacity and methods for its production are provided. Specifically, DBM derived from cortical bone from the periosteal layer of bone are provided. Compositions comprising a disproportionate amount of DBM prepared from bone derived from the periosteal and/or middle layer of bone are provided. Preparations of and methods of use of periosteal DBM compositions are disclosed.
US08435553B2
A method and product are provided for the treatment of connective tissue weakened due to destruction of tissue architecture, and in particular due to elastin degradation. The treatment agents employ certain unique properties of phenolic compounds to develop a protocol for reducing elastin degradation, such as that occurring during aneurysm formation in vasculature. According to the invention, elastin can be stabilized in vivo and destruction of connective tissue, such as that leading to life-threatening aneurysms in vasculature, can be tempered or halted all together. The treatment agents can be delivered or administered acutely or chronically according to various delivery methods, including sustained release methods incorporating perivascular or endovascular patches, use of microsphere carriers, hydrogels, or osmotic pumps.
US08435552B2
A process for producing a collagen/hydroxyapatite (HA) composite scaffold comprises the steps of forming a homogenous suspension of collagen and HA in an acidic solution, lyophilizing the suspension until a desired final freezing temperature is reached to produce the composite scaffold, and optionally cross-linking the composite scaffold, wherein the ratio of HA to collagen is at least 1:10 (w/w). Also provided is a collagen/hydroxyapatite (HA) composite scaffold comprising a homogenous distribution of hydroxyapatite within a porous, crosslinked, collagen matrix, wherein the ratio of HA to collagen is at least 1:10 (w/w). Suitably, the composite scaffold has a porosity of at least 99% (v/v), and a compressive stiffness of at least 0.3 KPa. Composite scaffolds of the invention may be used to provide osteoconductive bone implants and tissue engineering implants.
US08435548B2
Disclosed are peptide derivatives, wherein glutathione-like peptides are connected to benzoic acid derivatives, and a cosmetic composition comprising the same. The peptide derivatives have excellent tyrosinase inhibition and anti-oxidative activities to show excellent skin whitening effect, biocompatibility without skin stimulation, and stability during long-term storage. Therefore, they can be effectively used for a cosmetic composition for skin whitening.
US08435547B2
A skin care composition is useful for augmenting cellular metabolism in skin cells and thereby enhancing the regulation of intracellular signaling. The composition comprises a primer for skin cell mitochondrial function, such as a Krebs cycle intermediate, a precursor of a Krebs cycle intermediate, salts or esters thereof, or combinations thereof. The composition may also include antioxidants for free radical regulation and a pharmaceutically acceptable topical vehicle, such as an emollient base for skin health. A method for stimulating the mitochondrial activity of skin cells comprises administering to the skin of a person in need thereof a composition as described herein.
US08435545B2
The present invention is directed to a capsule comprising a water-soluble compound suitable for the capsule, and a mixture of colorant agents, wherein the color of the capsule may be in the range of 15
US08435541B2
A topical composition according to the present invention for use in a skin care regimen that provides matrix metalloprotease (MMP) inhibiting activity, tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease (TIMP) inducing activity, and immediate and delayed antioxidative activity. Preferably, the topical composition comprises at least one MMP inhibitor, a TIMP inducing agent, Tremella fuciformis (snow fungus) extract, Camellia sinensis (green tea) leaf extract, and Eugenia caryophyllus (clove) extract. The compositions are useful in anti-wrinkle and anti-aging products, providing elasticity, firmness, tone and texture to the skin, ameliorating fine lines and preventing skin damage.
US08435534B2
A method for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes the steps of formulating the anti-cancer vaccine outside of the subject and administering the vaccine to the subject in an amount sufficient to stimulate an immune response against IL-13Rα2 in the subject. A composition for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes an isolated agent that can stimulate immune response against IL-13α2.
US08435533B2
The instant invention relates to antigens and nucleic acids encoding such antigens obtainable by screening a Chlamydia genome. In more specific aspects, the invention relates to methods of isolating such antigens and nucleic acids and to methods of using such isolated antigens for producing immune responses. The ability of an antigen to produce an immune response may be employed in vaccination or antibody preparation techniques.
US08435532B2
The present invention relates to the use of fibronectin, tenascin, collagens type I, III, VI and/or VIII modified by aldehyde or by glycosylation in ELISA for detection of antibodies in plasma and serum to diagnose atherosclerosis as well as the use of induction of tolerance and active as well as passive immunization against glycosylated or aldehydemodified fibronectin, tenascin, collagen type I, III, VI and/or VIII for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
US08435522B2
Disclosed are humanized antibodies that bind specifically to the receptor CXCR3. The humanized antibodies may be antagonists and may be used to treat or diagnose conditions associated with CXCR3 function.
US08435513B2
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for characterizing, diagnosing, and treating cancer. In particular the invention provides the means and methods for the diagnosis, characterization, prognosis and treatment of cancer and specifically targeting cancer stem cells. The present invention provides an antibody that specifically binds to a non-ligand binding membrane proximal region of the extracellular domain of a human Notch receptor and inhibits tumor growth. The present invention further provides a method of treating cancer, the method comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of an antibody that specifically binds to a non-ligand binding membrane proximal region of the extracellular domain of a human Notch receptor protein and inhibits tumor growth.
US08435510B2
The disclosure relates generally to compositions and methods useful for inhibiting the infection and propagation of viral particles, particularly members of the Herpesviridae family, and more particularly to cytomegalovirus (CMV).
US08435505B2
The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and a conjugate having a degradable linkage. The conjugates include at least one of each the following: an aromatic moiety comprising an ionizable hydrogen atom, a spacer moiety, and a water-soluble polymer. Methods for delivering such compositions are also provided.
US08435501B2
Shampoo compositions comprising at least one surfactant; a silicone oil having an internal phase viscosity of less than about 50,000 cst, wherein said silicone oil is present as a preformed microemulsion of particles having an average particle size of less than about 0.15 microns, a cationic deposition polymer; an aqueous carrier and optionally a stabilizing agent provide a substantially clear shampoo composition, which provides superior conditioning to hair and/or skin while also providing excellent storage stability and high optical transparency or translucency.
US08435500B2
A cosmetic composition for bleaching discolored nails containing at least one hydrogen peroxide generator in an amount sufficient to perform bleaching of discolored nails, at least one film forming polymer and at least one cosmetically acceptable volatile solvent. Also disclosed is a method of bleaching discolored nails involving applying onto said nails the cosmetic composition of the present invention.
US08435495B2
The present invention relates, in general, to methods of screening a sample obtained from a subject for antibodies relating to granulocytic ehrlichia (GE) infection.
US08435491B2
A test indicator for quantifying remaining liver function is provided. A novel liver receptor imaging agent with liver targeting property is utilized to develop a method for quantifying remaining liver function to serve as test indicator for judging the liver failure outcome in clinic, particularly for judging the necessity of liver transplantation for patients with liver failure or liver disease. The radioactivity uptake of the test indicator was negatively correlated with the extent of liver reserve. The cutoff value of liver reserve for liver transplantation is also disclosed.
US08435486B2
An improved redox material able to be used for thermochemical water splitting, and a method for producing hydrogen using this redox material are provided. The redox material for thermochemical water splitting comprises a redox metal oxide selected from the group comprising perovskite-type composite metal oxides, fluorite-type composite metal oxides and combinations thereof, and a metal oxide carrier. The redox metal oxide is carried on the metal oxide carrier in a dispersed state. The method for producing hydrogen uses the oxidation and reduction of the redox material to decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen.
US08435481B2
A material for a solid oxide fuel cell, the material including a lanthanum metal oxide having a perovskite-type crystal structure; and a ceria metal oxide, wherein the ceria metal oxide includes at least one material selected from the group consisting of metal oxides represented by Formula 1 below and metal oxides represented by Formula 2: (1−a−b)Ce1-xAxO2-δ+aB2O5+bBO3 Formula 1 Ce1-x-yAxByO2-γ Formula 2 wherein 0≦a≦0.01, 0≦b≦0.02, 0<2a+≦0.02, 0
US08435479B2
A process is disclosed for recycling carbon dioxide emissions from a fossil-fuel power plant into useful carbonated species The process primarily comprises the steps of: a) burning the fossil fuel, thereby generating heat and a hot exhaust gas containing CO2; and b) converting the heat into energy. The process is characterized in that it further comprises the steps of: c) cooling the exhaust gas; and d) biologically transforming the CO2 contained in the cooled exhaust gas into carbonated species, thereby obtaining a low CO2 exhaust gas and producing useful carbonated species. The low CO2 exhaust gas obtained in step d) can be released in the atmosphere without increasing the problem of greenhouse effect.
US08435475B2
The present invention is to provide hollow particles with a low degree of agglomeration and having a high roundness, and a process for producing them.Hollow particles comprising a silicon compound, having an average particle size of from 5 to 65 nm and an average roundness of at least 0.90, and having a shell comprising the silicon compound and having a thickness of from 1 to 20 nm. Further, a method for producing hollow particles, which comprises adding sulfuric acid to a liquid containing spherical organic polymer-silicon compound composite particles having a core comprising an organic polymer and a shell comprising a silicon compound in a medium containing at least 95 mass % of water, followed by heating to carbonize the organic polymer thereby to convert it to a carbide, and subjecting the carbide to decomposition using a liquid oxidizing agent other than sulfuric acid.
US08435469B2
A method of controlling air pollution arising from sulphur trioxide and or sulphuric acid in coal combustion gases, combustion gases passing through the demister region of a wet flue gas desulphurization unit are exposed to a sulphide based reducing agent such as hydrogen sulphide, such that metal catalysts promoting the oxidation of ammonia leading to the formation of nitrosylsulfuric acid are poisoned and so prevented from catalysing the formation and discharge of sulphuric acid in aerosol emissions in stack gases.
US08435462B2
Methods and devices for thermal processing of multiple samples at the same time are disclosed. The sample processing devices provide process arrays that include conduits useful in distributing sample materials to a group of process chambers located in fluid communication with the main conduits. The sample processing devices may include one or more of the following features in various combinations: deformable seals, process chambers connected to the main conduit by feeder conduits exiting the main conduit at offset locations, U-shaped loading chambers, and a combination of melt bonded and adhesively bonded areas.
US08435461B2
An analytical device for performing an assay to determine the presence or approximate quantity of at least one analyte in a liquid sample is described. The device is manufactured to include an integrated desiccant within at least a test strip of the device. Addition of an integrated desiccant within the device improves signal to noise ratio, eases the manufacturing process, and saves in cost of production of the device.
US08435459B2
An apparatus (200, 300, 400) for generating superheated steam capable of reducing or eliminating microorganisms associated with an item (230) includes a gas heater (10) for heating a gas, a steam generator coupled to the gas heater (10) and having a reservoir (216, 304) for supplying water, wherein the heater (10) heats the gas such that when water is combined therewith, a mixture of superheated steam and gas capable of reducing or eliminating microorganisms is discharged from the apparatus (200, 300, 400). The generation of the steam-gas mixture may be done at one atmosphere of pressure and the mixing may be done prior to expelling the fluid from the apparatus (200, 300, 400). The apparatus (400) may be configured as a hand-held device, A method of treating an item (230) for microorganisms includes generating a superheated steam at approximately one atmosphere of pressure, directing a flow of the steam onto the item (230), and reducing or eliminating microorganisms using the steam.
US08435452B2
A circulating fluid bed reactor such as that used in fluid coking processes has a circular dense bed reaction section above the reactor base where the fluidizing gas is injected and a plurality of frusto-conical baffles in the dense bed reaction section, each of which depends downwardly and radially inwards from the reactor wall to a lower, inner edge defining a central aperture. The baffles are preferably provided with downcomers which permit downward flow of solids and upward flow of gas through the baffles.
US08435451B2
An incense burner and storage device includes a lower housing with a base and a storage compartment. The device also includes an upper housing and an upwardly extending column for supporting the upper housing. The upper housing includes a support for charcoal and incense and an ashtray for collecting ashes. The ashtray is also rotatable about a vertical axis between a loading position and a burning position. The ashtray also includes a perforated screen-like bottom that allows a flame to pass therethrough. A cigarette lighter is used for heating the charcoal and is pivotally mounted within the column for removal and replacement of the lighter. An adjustment mechanism is fixed to one side of the upper portion of the column and allows the charcoal and incense support to be raised or lowered with respect to the cigarette lighter.
US08435449B2
A chemical substance sensing element 142 for detecting a specific chemical substance included in biological information includes a carbon nanostructure and, because of metal complex or a fluorescent molecule modifying its surface, exhibits substance selectivity and high sensitivity. Of the substances modifying the surface of carbon nanostructures, CoPc reacts with NO and pentane and DAF-2 reacts with NO, as the components contained in the biological information, respectively, and both produce reaction products. The reaction product derived from CoPc changes electric resistance between nodes 154 and 156, and the reaction product derived from DAF-2 generates fluorescence of a specific wavelength when irradiated with excitation light. Therefore, by measuring the change in electric resistance or presence/absence and wavelength of fluorescent of the present element, sensing of NO or pentane is possible.
US08435435B2
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a multilayered duplex material article. The method comprises providing a first layer from a non-cast material and a second layer from a cast material wherein the second layer is made from a material with a lower melting point than the first layer. In one embodiment the first layer is a wrought alloy and the second layer is cast onto the first layer.
US08435431B2
A component of a laser processing machine includes an aluminum base member in which a duct is constructed in order to convey copper-ionized water. The duct has a corrosion-resistant plastic coating.
US08435429B2
A process for forming a thermoelectric component having optimum properties is provided. The process includes providing a plurality of core-shell nanoparticles, the nanoparticles having a core made from silica, metals, semiconductors, insulators, ceramics, carbon, polymers, combinations thereof, and the like, and a shell containing bismuth telluride. After the core-shell nanoparticles have been provided, the nanoparticles are subjected to a sintering process. The result of the sintering provides a bismuth telluride thermoelectric component having a combined electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient squared of greater than 30,000 μV2S/mK2 at 150° C.
US08435428B2
Methods for forming a film on a substrate in a semiconductor manufacturing process. A reaction chamber a substrate in the chamber are provided. A ruthenium based precursor, which includes ruthenium tetroxide dissolved in a mixture of at least two non-flammable fluorinated solvents, is provided and a ruthenium containing film is produced on the substrate.
US08435425B2
The invention provides a polar dispersion composition containing 0.5 to 30 parts by mass of an electroconductive carbon black and 0.1 to 30 parts by mass of a styrene-methoxy polyethylene glycol methacrylate copolymer, with respect to 100 parts by mass of the polar dispersion composition. The composition of the invention is easy to handle as a liquid preparation, and develops sufficient electroconductivity when processed into a conductive material.
US08435415B2
A nanofabrication process for use with a photoresist that is disposed on a substrate includes the steps of exposing the photoresist to a grayscale radiation pattern, developing the photoresist to remove a irradiated portions and form a patterned topography having a plurality of nanoscale critical dimensions, and selectively etching the photoresist and the substrate to transfer a corresponding topography having a plurality of nanoscale critical dimensions into the substrate.
US08435408B2
The invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of a medical liquid comprising a liquid treatment machine and a cassette insertable therein substantially made of a rigid base body of the cassette with fitted chambers and passages and a foil covering them.
US08435407B2
A fuel filter of a motor vehicle is designed to be mounted in a traveling direction of the motor vehicle and has a filter housing with a housing base body. The housing base body has a front side facing in the traveling direction. The front side of the housing base body has an external, integrally formed rib structure configured and adapted as impact protection.
US08435405B2
A sealing grommet for a fluid filter is provided. The sealing grommet includes a central portion defining an aperture; a flange portion integrally formed with the central portion, the flange portion extending outwardly from an outer periphery of the central portion, wherein a first portion of the central portion extends away from the flange portion in a first direction and a second portion of the central portion extends away from the flange portion in a second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction; and a first protrusion disposed on the first portion, the first protrusion being disposed on an inner surface of the central portion defining the aperture.
US08435403B2
A process is described for removing a nitrogen-rich fraction from a feed fraction containing essentially nitrogen and hydrocarbons, wherein the feed fraction is partially condensed and fractionated by rectification into a nitrogen-rich fraction and a methane-rich fraction.According to the invention during an interruption in the supply of the feed fraction, the separation column(s) (T1/T2) used for the fractionation by rectification and also the heat exchangers used for the partial condensation (E1) of the feed fraction and the cooling and warming of process streams occurring in the fractionation by rectification (E2) are kept by means of one or more differing cooling media (6-11) at temperature levels which correspond essentially to the temperature levels during standard operation of the separation column(s) (T1/T2) and the heat exchangers (E1, E2).
US08435397B2
A fluidic device includes a porous substrate, a wetting region extending through a first portion of the porous substrate from a first side of the substrate, in which the wetting region is permeable to fluid transport, and a non-wetting region extending through a second portion of the porous substrate from a second side of the substrate, in which the non-wetting region is operable to switch between a first state impermeable to fluid transport and a second state permeable to fluid transport.
US08435371B2
In one embodiment, the invention is a method comprising contacting a composition comprising i) alumina particles having a particle size of about 1 to about 40 microns and a Mohs hardness of about 9.0 to about 9.5; ii) one or more alkyl sulphates; iii) one or more thickeners; and iv) water with the surface of glass or a ceramic frit disposed on the surface of glass. The contacting can be performed by applying the composition to the surface of the glass or the ceramic frit using an application apparatus. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises a lubricant. In another embodiment, the composition further comprises one or more ethoxylated alcohols. In another embodiment, the composition further comprises one or more fragrances.
US08435368B2
The invention relates to a device for ultrasonic welding of at least two plastic foil layers for manufacturing for example a package. The device comprises at least one sonotrode and at least one anvil positioned opposite each other and each being provided with a pressure surface. The pressure surfaces can be moved away from each other and towards each other from a position of rest to a welding position and vice versa, the pressure surfaces in the welding position forming a welding section as well as a flow-out section. The pressure surfaces in the flow-out section have at least two pressure surface areas extending substantially parallel to each other for supporting the foil layers.
US08435352B2
An apparatus for coating a substrate using physical vapor deposition, including a vacuum chamber wherein a coil is placed for keeping an amount of conductive material in levitation and for heating and evaporating that material, using a varying electric current in the coil. Isolating member are placed in the coil to isolate the coil from the levitated material. The isolating member is part of a container made of non-conductive material. The container has one or more openings for guiding evaporated conductive material to the substrate to be coated. A method for coating a substrate using physical vapor deposition is also presented.
US08435350B2
A device for supplying a large number of consumer stations with a predetermined amount of a process medium, in particular a coating device for containers, has a supply line for the process medium and a connection at the consumer station. In order to make such a device simpler from the structural point of view and less expensive, a unit is used, which keeps a predetermined flow rate constant and which comprises a capillary path extending before each connection and dimensioned in accordance with the predetermined amount of process medium, and a unit which is associated with a plurality of connections and which is used for maintaining a defined flow velocity along the capillary path.
US08435349B2
A high throughput reactor for the mass production of wafers through chemical vapor deposition, mainly to form silicon epitaxies for the photovoltaic industry, is described. Main innovation is a high susceptor stacking density: several graphite susceptors are placed vertically and parallel to one another, electrically interconnected, and are heated by Joule effect. Electrical current gets to the susceptors from the current source through specially designed feedthroughs, which connect the cold room outside the deposition chamber with the hot susceptors. Gas flows vertically between susceptors. The substrates on which deposition occurs are placed on the susceptors. Below the susceptors a pre-chamber is found, in which entering gas calms down and distributes homogeneously. Susceptors and pre-chamber are placed inside a stainless steel chamber, which is internally covered by a reflecting material, and externally kept cold by water. Both susceptors and pre-chamber are fixed to a connection panel, which also contains electrical feedthroughs, thermocouple feedthroughs, and gas inlet and outlet. Outlet gases are partially recycled, with the corresponding gas savings and increased deposition efficiency.
US08435346B2
A phase modulation element according to the present invention has a first area having a first phase value based on a phase modulation unit having a predetermined size and a second area having a second phase value based on the phase modulation unit having the predetermined size, and each phase distribution is defined by a change in area shares of the first area and the second area depending on each position.
US08435342B2
A concrete composition comprising a mouldable mixture of aggregate, binder and liquid vehicle, wherein the aggregate comprises sulphur concrete-derived aggregate and wherein the binder comprises hydraulic binder. The use of crushed sulphur concrete as aggregate in cement-based concrete reduces the hardening time of the concrete.
US08435334B2
A carbon canister for use with a fuel storage system having a fuel storage tank and a vent line connected thereto. The carbon canister includes an inner container having a first end and a second end, an outer container having a first end and a second end, the outer container being disposed about an outer surface of the inner container such that the outer container and the inner container are concentric. A first end plate is disposed at the first end of the inner container and the first end of the outer container and a second end plate is disposed at the second end of the inner container and the second end of the outer container, such that a first volume is defined by the inner container, the outer container, the first end plate and the second end plate, and hydrocarbon adsorbing activated carbon disposed in the first volume. The vent line of the fuel storage tank is external to the carbon canister and the first volume of the carbon canister is in fluid communication with the fuel storage tank.
US08435327B2
A carbon dioxide permeable membrane is described. In some embodiments, the membrane includes a body having a first side and an opposite second side; a plurality of first regions formed from a molten carbonate having a temperature of about 400 degrees Celsius to about 1200 degrees Celsius, the plurality of first regions forming a portion of the body and the plurality of first regions extending from the first side of the body to the second side of the body; a plurality of second regions formed from an oxygen conductive solid oxide, the plurality of second regions combining with the plurality of first regions to form the body and the plurality of second regions extending from the first side of the body to the second side of the body; and the body is configured to allow carbon dioxide to pass from the first side to the second side.
US08435324B2
The disclosure provides to a PDC element protective system including a mask configured to protect a non-leached portion of a leached polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) element during a leaching process. The mask may be formed from or coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The disclosure also provides a leaching system containing such a mask and a leaching vessel as well as methods of using the protective and leaching systems. The disclosure further provides a Lewis acid-based leaching agent and methods of its use. Finally, the disclosure provides a method of recycling a PDC or carbide element using a Lewis acid-based leaching agent.
US08435311B2
A method of collecting soiled textiles to be cleaned, comprising the steps of providing a container having an open end, a closed end, and sides extending therebetween, providing a sling having an open end, a second end, and sides extending therebetween disposed in and supported by said container, providing a water soluble bag having an open end, a closed end, and sides extending therebetween and made of a plastic film having a thickness of at least 1.3 mils, wherein said bag dissolves in water at a temperature of 165° F. in less than about 250 seconds, does not dissolve in water at a temperature of 85° F. in 7 days, being capable of containing at least 175 lbs. of soiled textiles, and having a capacity of at least 50 gallons, wherein said bag is disposed in and supported by said sling, and wherein soiled textiles deposited in said container are contained in said bag.
US08435309B2
Disclosed herein a prosthetic or orthotic device having a joint portion and a compliant transmission assembly in operational communication with the joint portion. The device restores the normal capabilities and natural dynamics of a healthy joint for common activities. The compliant transmission assembly includes a compliant element. The compliant transmission assembly absorbs energy when a torque is applied between a prosthetic or orthotic device portion and another adjacent device portion or the adjacent limb segment of the user. The compliant element of the invention absorbs energy during flexion of a joint for the dampening thereof and releases this energy during extension of the joint for assistance thereof. Also disclosed herein is an actuator assembly, a torque sensor and an actuator locking device as well as a method for determining the torque of such prosthetic and orthotic devices.
US08435304B2
An adjustable tibial trial insert includes an upper plate having an upper articular surface and a lower plate. A height-adjustment mechanism of the insert is coupled to and positioned generally between the upper plate and the lower plate and is configured to move between a closed position where the upper and lower plates are adjacent each other and an opened position where the upper and lower plates are spaced-apart from each other in order to adjust a height or thickness of the insert.
US08435292B2
Methods and devices are provided for fixing a ligament graft in a bone tunnel. In general, the methods and devices involve affixing a ligament graft within a bone tunnel using an adhesive. A fixation device can be inserted through the ligament graft in a direction transverse to an axis of the tunnel to maintain the ligament graft in contact with the adhesive. The fixation device can be removed when the adhesive is cured such that the ligament graft is fixed in the tunnel.
US08435290B2
Methods and devices for providing a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube are provided. One device may include a lumen with a valve. A portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent muscle. Another portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent cartilage. When the muscle contracts the valve may open through movement of the tethers, and provide a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube.
US08435285B2
An endoprosthesis comprising a stent, a cover fully covering the stent wherein the cover has variable porosity in the radial direction; and an adhesion layer connecting the stent to the cover. Another aspect of the invention is a method of implanting an endoprosthesis which includes a stent, providing a cover with variable porosity in the radial direction, connecting the stent to the cover with an adhesion layer to form a covered stent, and implanting the covered stent within a body lumen of a patient.
US08435280B2
Medical devices, such as endoprostheses, are disclosed. In some embodiments, an endoprosthesis includes a circumferentially-oriented band including two curved portions and a first portion connecting the two curved portions, the first portion having a first width and at least one curved portion having a second width; and a connector extending from the band; wherein the second width is greater than the first width.
US08435278B2
Systems and methods for accurate temperature modification of a patient, or selected regions thereof, including inducing hypothermia. The temperature modification is accomplished using an in-dwelling heat exchange catheter within which a fluid heat exchange medium circulates. A heat exchange cassette attached to the circulatory flow lines of the catheter, the heat exchange cassette being sized to engage a cavity within a control unit. A temperature measurement scheme for obtaining body core temperature is provided, including methods of obtaining and analyzing temperature data to provide feedback to the control unit for use in controlling the heating and cooling of the heat exchange medium so as to heat or cool a patient to a desired target temperature.
US08435274B2
Disclosed are several methods, apparatus, and a system for providing arthritic symptom relief through a laser based medical instrument. In one embodiment, a method includes generating a radiation of a laser-light created by a laser diode of a first medical instrument. In addition, the method includes applying a treatment of the radiation to a portion of a hand. The method also includes reducing a pain caused by one or more diseases associated with a degradation of a joint in the hand. The method further includes providing a relief from the pain when the treatment is complete.
US08435273B2
A high-powered light emitting diode (LED) photobiology (phototherapy) device is disclosed in the accompanying specification. The contemplated photobiology (phototherapy) device may be used in the treatment of various aesthetic and medical or other conditions. The phototherapy device may include a number of select LEDs for emitting a desired range or ranges of wavelengths of high intensity light for use in treatment. Additionally, the phototherapy treatment includes one or more methods for providing a treatment appropriate to the condition desired to be treated. The phototherapy device provides for a variety of high power light settings, intensity levels, and selectable time intervals for providing treatment.
US08435270B2
An implant for use in orthognathic surgery of a mandible may include a longitudinal plate member and a plurality of pre-configured guides coupled to the plate member. The longitudinal plate member is pre-bent to correspond to the post-operative shape of the mandible; and the guides are pre-configured to align the plate member with the mandible when the implant is positioned against the mandible after the mandible has been separated.
US08435269B2
Instruments and methods for creating an operative corridor to the spine and performing a spinal fusion. The instruments including, for example, a retractor assembly with a plurality of retractor blades, at least two pedicle screws, and a connecting rod. The retractor blades are coupled to the pedicle screws such that the operative corridor is registered to known anatomical landmarks aiding the surgeon with intraoperative orientation and anatomy identification. The retractor blades may be coupled to the pedicle screws via a polyaxial connection such that the angle of the operative corridor may be adjusted while maintaining the registration to the landmarks. Rod receivers may be attached to the pedicle screws after the disc space is operated on to minimize encumbrances on the working space within the operative corridor. A connecting rod is subsequently locked to the receivers to fix the spinal segment.
US08435245B2
A surgical implant insertion device including an inner shaft; shaft threading coupled to the inner shaft; a rotating knob including a channel bored therethrough and internal threading lining the channel, where the internal threading configured to mate with the shaft threading; an actuator including an actuator body and a translation cavity cut through the actuator body and an inner shaft cavity cut through the actuator body, where the inner shaft cavity wraps around the inner shaft; an outer sleeve covering the inner shaft and coupled to the rotating knob; and a base connector wrapping around the outer sleeve, the base connector comprising a pair of connecting arms configured to loosely mate with the translation cavity of the actuator and pivoting and translating the actuator in response to a linear force.
US08435234B2
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for using an imaging detector to image an optical pattern created by illumination of a viscous material that is applied to the skin. The viscous material forms a detectable pattern that can be imaged by the imaging detector. In some examples, the viscous material is reflective and allows reflection from an illumination source to create an optical pattern on the imaging detector. In other cases, the variation in thickness of an absorbing or scattering viscous substance can be imaged by the detector. Polarized illumination and detection can be used to enhance the response.
US08435233B2
A method for ablating a presbyopic lens for restoring accommodation in human eye and a system thereof wherein a laser beam is directed obliquely to carry out multiple photoablations in circular way within the lens behind the iris and preferably near the edge or equator of the lens and/or in the vicinity of zonules to re-establish accommodation of the lens lost due to presbyopia.
US08435232B2
A catheter for diagnosis or treatment of a vessel or organ is provided in which a flexible elongated body includes a tri-axial force sensor formed of a housing and a plurality of optical fibers associated with the housing that measure changes in the intensity of light reflected from the lateral surfaces of the housing resulting from deformation caused by forces applied to a distal extremity of the housing. A controller receives an output of the optical fibers and computes a multi-dimensional force vector corresponding to the contact force.
US08435230B2
Systems for removing heat from a subject's subcutaneous lipid-rich regions, such as tissue, organs, cells, and so forth, are described herein. In various embodiments, the system includes a treatment device and a controller for controlling a treatment process. The controller is configured to detect and compensate for an interruption in the treatment process.
US08435228B2
Interventional catheter assemblies that operate over a guide wire and incorporate guide wire management systems are disclosed. Specifically, a guide wire buffer zone is provided between a proximal end of the interventional catheter and the guide wire clamp that accommodates variable lengths of exposed guide wire in an unrestrained condition when the guide wire is clamped, allowing the distal end of the operating catheter to be advanced and retracted over the distal end of the guide wire without repositioning and reclamping the proximal end of the guide wire. The configuration of the guide wire buffer zone may be adjusted prior to or during an intervention based on the anticipated range of axial motion of the catheter and operating head relative to the guide wire.
US08435227B2
Disclosed herein is a catheter for a left coronary artery having a distal end for being introduced into an opening of the left coronary artery from an artery of an arm. The catheter can include a catheter main body including a main body portion of a substantially linear shape in a natural state thereof and a curved portion extending from the main body portion to form a portion that extends to the distal end and has a curved shape in a natural state thereof.
US08435224B2
The invention relates generally to materials for facilitating the administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and related compounds. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a kit comprising items used for the safe and effective administration of DMSO. In another embodiment, the invention relates to indicating containers for holding or delivering DMSO.
US08435217B2
A gas sterilizable delivery system for a two-part polymer system is provided. The delivery system includes at least two syringe barrels, each barrel being sealed with a gas permeable plunger seal allowing permeation of a sterilant gas to permeate through the plunger seal allowing the entire assembly to be gas sterilized.
US08435215B2
The present invention relates to an injection device (1) comprising: —a container (5) receiving a product, and provided with an injection needle (6), —a housing (9, 11) receiving said container, said container being movable relative to said housing between an initial position, an insertion position, and a final position, —retaining means (12, 15), for maintaining said container in said insertion position, —deactivating means (20), for releasing said retaining means, said device being characterized in that it comprises: —temporizing means (19, 26, 27), for controlling the release of said retaining means until substantially all of the product contained within said container has passed through said injection needle before said container moves to said final position, and —a needle shield (2) coupled with said housing (9, 11) removal of said needle shield being with limited or no rotation of said needle shield. The invention also concerns a kit comprising such a device.
US08435201B2
A method for treating a user's back, a user's neck, or combinations thereof. The method can include the steps of: inserting a traction device into a pouch of a fabric garment; disposing the fabric garment over a user; engaging the traction device with a surface; and applying a pressure to the traction device using the user's back. The traction device can provide a therapeutic pressure to the user's back, to the user's neck, or to combinations thereof. The method can use a customizable traction device having a shearable fraction head and body. The shearable traction head and body can each be cut to a custom size to fit a user. The method can use a removable fabric chair cover disposed over a chair. A user can sit on the chair and apply a pressure to the traction device using the user's back.
US08435197B2
In a knee-joint orthosis for guiding the patella of a patient during the transition from an extended position to a flexed position of the knee joint and vice versa, with a fastening means (I) for fastening to a thigh and a lower leg, with at least one laterally arranged stabilizing element that takes up a flexion of the knee joint and bears on the thigh and lower leg, and with a dimensionally stable guide element (6) that can be held in position by an arrangement of tensioning straps and is arranged to bear laterally on the patella by way of a lateral base part (7) from which medially directed attachments (8) extend proximally and distally of the patella and are secured to strap sections (10, 12) on the orthosis in the area of the thigh and of the lower leg in such a way that a medial tensile force is exerted on the attachments (8).
US08435195B2
A walking assistance device has a load transmitting assembly, a foot-worn assembly, and a leg link provided between the load transmitting assembly and the foot-worn assembly. The foot-worn assembly has a ground contact member, on which a user's foot rests, and a connecting member which connects the ground contact member to a joint at a lower end of the leg link. The ground contact member is provided with tread force sensors and the foot-worn assembly permits detection of a tread force. The connecting member is formed so as to rise in a cantilever manner from one lateral side of the ground contact member. The tread force sensors are installed in at least one location adjacent to the heel of the user's foot and in at least two locations adjacent to toes of the user's foot, with the latter two locations being laterally spaced apart.
US08435194B2
A skin treatment device combines an RF treatment arrangement with a mechanical massage arrangement, preferably with the massage device in the form of an annular massage head encircling and rotating around the RF applicator. Also disclosed are configurations with a liquid dispenser for delivering a liquid to the skin under the device. According to one option, the skin contact surface of the RF applicator itself is provided in part by a rolling ball liquid applicator.
US08435193B2
A cardio pulmonary CPR device and method provides enhanced circulation by an inventive sequence of states of chest compression and airway valve opening and closure. The embodiments of the invention produce enhanced circulation during cardiac arrest, while maintaining a degree of ventilation to the patient, including oxygen delivery in some embodiments. Some embodiments include mechanical compression units. Other embodiments include a compression sensor to detect manually delivered compressions.
US08435189B2
A compound curette for removing tissue samples and delivering liquid and anti-pathogen to the treated area includes a hollow handle that fits a reservoir with a medicated or cosmeceutical solution. A solution is delivered from the reservoir through a channel to a scraping end of the curette by a button activated mechanism. The scraping end of the curette is made of a metal or hard plastic and is covered in anti-pathogen material. The liquid delivery allows placing a medicine or sterilizing solution directly at the locust of the infection. Pathogen inhibition coating provides for a good safeguard to stop or slow bacteria or fungus proliferation. The method of scraping debris and medication delivery is particularly useful for the treatment of onychomycosis, commonly referred to as a fungus infection of the toenail. Main portions of the curette could be detachable, allowing for the easy reservoir replacement and for the use of multiple scraping utensils. Similarly, the device could be manufactured for a single use when all parts are molded together.
US08435186B2
The disclosure describes techniques for quantifying the autonomic nervous system (ANS) health of a patient with thoracic impedance measurements. Thoracic impedance may be measured utilizing cardiac electrodes and an implantable medical device housing or other electrodes located on or within the patient. Since greater variability in thoracic impedance may indicate better health of the ANS, monitoring impedance changes in a patient may be used to quantify autonomic tone of the ANS, and ultimately, overall patient health. In some examples, thoracic impedance may be measured in response to a change in patient posture for acute monitoring or at predetermined times over several days, weeks, or months for more chronic monitoring of the patient. An implantable medical device may independently analyze the impedance measurements and transmit an alert to the patient or clinician when impedance changes indicate a change in patient health.
US08435174B2
Methods and devices are provided for accessing a surgical site. In one embodiment, an access device is provided having a housing and a cannula extending distally therefrom. The cannula and the housing can define a working channel extending longitudinally therethrough. The cannula can be movable between an insertion configuration and a deployed configuration. The access device can also include an obturator insertable through the working channel. In one embodiment, the obturator can be configured to selectively mate with the cannula such that rotation of the obturator is effective to cause corresponding rotation of the cannula. In another embodiment, the obturator can be configured to move the cannula from the insertion configuration to the deployed configuration when the obturator is fully disposed within the cannula.
US08435161B2
A balance simulator for bicycling comprises a base (4) and a roller device. A guide rail (20) is provided on the top surface of the base (4), and a removable board (3) is mounted on the guide rail (20). A rotatable plate vertical shaft (10) on top of which a rotatable plate (2) pivots is provided vertically on the middle part of the removable board (3), and a groove (6) for holding the bicycle front wheel (1) is provided longitudinally on the top surface of the rotatable plate (2). A semicircular inner gear (5) is installed on the foreside of the bottom surface of the rotatable plate (2), and the central lines of the semicircular inner gear (5) and the rotatable plate vertical shaft (10) are collinear. The semicircular inner gear (5) is engaged with a small gear (7) on the top of a gear shaft (8) which is mounted rotatably on the middle front part of the removable board (3). A big gear (16) is provided on the lower part of the gear shaft (8) and is engaged with a long rack (19) which is mounted on the middle part of the base (4).
US08435153B2
A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least two to establish at least nine forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08435147B2
A transmission for a hybrid vehicle is provided to implement one or more electric vehicle modes, two or more power split modes, and a plurality of fixed-gear ratio modes that can improve driving performance and fuel efficiency.
US08435143B2
A ball bat including a bat frame and a performance adjusting annular member positioned within the barrel portion. The bat frame has a handle portion and a barrel portion. The annular member has an outer diameter, a weight within the range of 0.4 to 1.85 ounces and a radial cross-sectional area. The radial cross sectional area has a maximum height and a maximum width. The maximum height over the maximum width defines a first aspect ratio. The outer diameter over the maximum width defines a second aspect ratio. The first aspect ratio is at least 0.5 and the second aspect ratio is greater than 1.5. The annular member has at least first and second annular portions. The first annular portion extends over no more than 50 percent of the width of the body and includes over sixty percent of the mass of the body.
US08435142B2
Methods are provided for at least two teams to play a game with a ball on a playing surface having a plurality of zones and at least two goals. Zones have distinct rules for handling passing, receiving, and shooting of a ball during a game. A goal provides two distinctly defined types of scoring zones through which to score the ball from within a peripheral line of the playing surface. One type of scoring zone is at least one open ring shaped opening, and the other is an arced rectangularly shaped opening. The ball may be scored through either of the scoring zones. Points are awarded differently for scoring in either of the two zones and for throwing or kicking the ball through the two zones. Ball comprises at least two panels having arms attached along a contiguous seam.
US08435126B2
A channel member, a modular floor structure, and a method capable of positioning an object on a substantially planar surface is disclosed. Movement of a movable band within an interior channel of the channel member permits movement of an object outside of the interior channel.
US08435124B2
A variable length steering spindle for a steering mechanism of a motor vehicle includes an outer sleeve, an inner member, a slide sleeve having recesses, and rolling bodies. The recesses and the rolling bodies are configured such that the rolling bodies project from the slide sleeve in a no-load state of the slide sleeve, and in an assembled state of the steering spindle the rolling bodies are prestressed against a raceway face and are displaced in a direction away from the raceway face against a reset force. The slide sleeve contacts the other of the outer sleeve and the inner member when a limit value of torque is exceeded. The rolling bodies are non-displaceable in the longitudinal direction with respect to the slide sleeve or are finitely displaceable between stops formed at distal ends of the recesses.
US08435120B2
A wagering game in which a bonus event is triggered and during the bonus event possible bonus awards are displayed on corresponding displays of electronic gaming devices (EGDs) and eliminated one at a time until the predetermined bonus award remains and is revealed to the player. The EGDs are linked together to a main controller, and a predetermined bonus award is randomly determined for each EGD. The main controller stores all of the predetermined bonus awards for all of the EGDs participating in the bonus event, and communicates a subset of possible bonus awards to each of the EGDs, where each subset includes the predetermined bonus award to be awarded at each EGD and at least one decoy bonus award that will not be awarded. The EGDs display a bonus award show in which the decoy bonus awards are eliminated, one at a time, preferably such that the highest valued decoy bonus awards are eliminated last, until one remaining predetermined bonus award is revealed to the player.
US08435119B2
Provided are systems and methods for conducting sweepstakes, which can include a user controlled gaming award, wherein the user controlled gaming award includes entries in another game is provided. Entries into a sweepstakes game are associating with a unique identifier, which can be used to enter a plurality of sweepstakes games. A graphical user interface is configured to permit a player to assign awarded sweepstakes entries to at least one sweepstakes game, and further can be configured to permit the player to accumulate entries. The awarded entries can be configured as a form of currency redeemable for entry into at least one sweepstakes game. The methods and systems can permit the player to exchange any entry into a sweepstakes game. According to another embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises an act of permitting the player to exchange the custom currency. According to another embodiment, the method and systems are further configured to provide an exchange interface for trading of the custom currency.
US08435114B2
The fun of a game is increased, and the player can be induced to play the game repeatedly. Belonging group determining means determines that the prefecture to which a player character belongs is Osaka Prefecture, belonging group variable determining means determines that the enthusiasm rank parameter of Osaka Prefecture is “normal”=0 points, belonging group event result determining means determines the result of a predetermined event with respect to the player character, and belonging group variable varying means varies the enthusiasm rank parameter of Osaka Prefecture according to the result of the predetermined event with respect to the player character.
US08435113B2
In order to enhance visual representation of an advertisement within a video game optical characteristics of the advertisement are specified. Specifically, downloaded data corresponding to an advertisement is used to provide an advertising image within a virtual environment of a video game. The advertising image is displayed having a portion that appears to be at least one of transmissive and reflective. In this way, advertisements are displayed in a fashion consistent with the appearance of a corresponding advertisement in the real world.
US08435112B2
In a gaming machine, when a slot game displayed on a screen of a lower liquid crystal display is executed with a maximum wager betted thereon by a player, the controller has the slot game counted by a counter for counting rescue-setting games. When the count value, by the counter, for rescue-setting games reaches a thousand games and no payout of sixty times or higher ever occurs by that time, the controller provides, as a rescue pay, a payout having been increased by increments each of which is equivalent to a part of a wager betted on each of the slot games that have been executed thus far. The controller provides the payout of the rescue pay by paying out medals to the medal tray.
US08435111B2
The gaming system, gaming device and method disclosed herein determines whether to provide at least one of the plurality of progressive awards to the player based on that player's measured level of skill in: (i) a plurality of plays of a partial skill-based game, (ii) a skill-based progressive award sequence, or (iii) a plurality of plays of a partial skill-based game and a skill-based progressive award sequence. The determination is based on zero, one or more inputs made by the player which tend to measure that player's level of skill in at least one of a partial skill-based game and a skill-based progressive award sequence.
US08435109B2
The gaming machine includes: a game requiring a player's bet; a reel used in the game and mechanically driven to rotate; a plurality of symbols on the reel; a display capable of generating a video image; an input device which receives an input by the player; and a controller which is programmed to carry out the steps of: (a1) receiving an input inputted through the input device; (a2) when the input is a rotation command related to the reel, rotating the reel while the rotation command is being inputted; and (a3) successively displaying, on the display, a video image of at least one of the symbols on the reel in sync with the rotation of the reel.
US08435102B2
A coin dispenser including a coin storing unit (1) and a coin extractor (3), the casing of which (4) demarcates a cylindrical chamber (5) with side outlet (6) for the exit of coins, in which there is housed a rotary driving disc (7) which has a series of cavities (8) closed, on the side opposite to that occupied by the coin storing unit, by a base disc (9) forming stops (14) opposite the rotation direction of the driving disc (7). The disc has retractable parts (13) which, together with the stops (23), control the exit of coins driven in the cavities (8).
US08435092B1
A personal water sport riding board with a modified bottom surface to enhance its water riding characteristics is herein disclosed is provided with a pair of appendages designed to facilitate the catching of water. In such a manner, as water passes on the bottom surface, it is caught by the appendages thus propelling the riding board forward in a faster manner. The appendages are manufactured of rigid foam that is covered with a fabric material in much the same manner as a conventional riding board.
US08435084B2
A communication jack, system using the jack, and method of fabricating the jack are disclosed. The jack includes a cavity configured to accept a communication plug to form a communication connector. The jack includes a plurality of plug interface contacts that extend into the cavity such that a plug inserted into the cavity makes electrical contact with the plug interface contacts at plug/jack interfaces of the plug interface contacts. One or more of the plug interface contacts is formed from multiple conductive layers. The conductive layers are movable relative to each other at at least one end. A dielectric layer or flexible printed circuit board may be disposed between the conductive layers.
US08435082B2
An electrical connector that includes a circuit board having a board substrate that has opposite board surfaces and a thickness measured along an orientation axis that extends between the opposite board surfaces. The circuit board has associated pairs of input and output terminals and signal traces that electrically connect the associated pairs of input and output terminals. The input and output terminals being configured to communicatively coupled to mating and cable conductors, respectively. Each associated pair of input and output terminals is electrically connected through a corresponding signal trace that has a conductive path extending along the board substrate between the corresponding input and output terminals. At least two signal traces form a broadside-coupling region in which the conductive paths of the at least two signal traces are stacked along the orientation axis and spaced apart through the thickness and extend parallel to each other for a crosstalk-reducing distance.
US08435078B2
An electrical connector structure with multi-poles includes an isolation body, a pole set, and a circuit connection unit. The isolation body includes a core portion and a recessed ring portion formed around the core portion. The poles include a center pole disposed in the core portion, a first pole disposed on the inner side of the recessed ring portion, and a second pole disposed on the outer side of the recessed ring portion. The center pole, the first pole, and the second pole each includes a main portion and a conduction portion extending from the main portion toward the rear wall of the isolation body. The circuit connection unit is disposed on the rear wall of the isolation body and includes a preformed circuit layout and a plurality of first through holes disposed corresponding to the conduction portions for electrically connecting the circuit layout with the conduction portion.
US08435070B2
According to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus for disconnecting electrical service includes a housing to be coupled to an electric meter socket, a first stationary connector protruding from a first side of the housing, the first stationary connector configured to connect to a first line of electricity and a second stationary connector protruding from the first side of the housing, the second stationary connector configured to connect to a second line of electricity. The apparatus also includes a first moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, a second moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, and a third moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing.
US08435069B2
A method and apparatus for producing a USB cable capable of being fed out of and returned to a cable reel is disclosed along with a cable reel that houses the cable and provides connectivity for the cable.
US08435063B2
An electrical connector assembly for forming AC power connections between a DC-to-AC inverter on a solar panel and AC power cable extending to an AC power grid includes a three-contact socket on the inverter and a three-contact electrical connector on the cable. The connector may be joined to the socket in either of two positions.
US08435061B2
A connector 10 is made of a socket 20, a plug 30, and a removal prevention mechanism 40. The removal prevention mechanism 40 includes a slider tube 41 slidably mounted on a first body 21, a stop ring 42 mounted on the outer circumferential surface of the first body 21, a helical spring 43 resiliently disposed between the slider tube 41 and a socket member 22, a ball 44 movably mounted in a through hole 41C defined in the slider tube 41, a cavity 45 defined in the outer circumferential surface of the first body 21 for the ball 44 to drop therein, and an engaging surface 46 defined in the inner circumferential surface of the plug member 32, for engaging the ball 44.
US08435060B2
Fixtures, apparatuses, and related methods are provided that provide for a non-Edison connection for receiving a lamp housing of a lighting device having a non-Edison connector. The fixture can include a fixture housing and a non-Edison socket securable to the fixture housing. The fixture can also include an engagement device for engaging a lamp housing of a lighting device that has a non-Edison connector upon insertion of the lamp housing into the fixture housing and engaging the non-Edison socket.
US08435048B2
A connector includes a connector assembly is supported by a moveable member that can move relative to a printed wired board in two directions and is urged to its center position by two oppositely disposed springs that each urge a contact member into a respective recess.
US08435043B2
A power connector assembly includes a first connector (100) having a first insulating housing (110) forming a front face (114) and a rear face (115). A number of passageways (101) are defined in the first insulating housing and extending through the front face and the rear face. A number of first contacts (120) are retained in the passageways, respectively. A second connector (200) includes a second insulating housing (210) having a front surface (214) and a rear surface (215). A number of passageways (201) are defined in the second insulating housing and extending through the front surface and the rear surface. A number of second contacts (220) are retained in the passageways, respectively. When the first connector and the second connector are mated with each other along a mating direction, a number of airflow holes (102) are defined between the front face of the first connector and the front surface of the second connector for heat dissipation.
US08435037B1
A learning system for testing aspects of how a child learns includes a toy-like electro-mechanical chassis having upstanding pegs. The child is encouraged to place donut shaped hand pieces onto the pegs. The hand pieces test the ability of the child to discriminate between different colors, and separately between different textures and different shapes and also tests the child's abilities in perception and creativity. The electro-mechanical chassis also is able to test the child's ability to discern and copy tones and rhythms. Information of the child's performance is automatically collected and compared with normalized results of a large tested group of subjects. Remediation focuses on activities related to the learning channels where the child is least astute and periodic retesting measures the ability of the child to improve in those channels to enable improvement of remediation approaches.
US08435034B2
The present invention describes an ultrasonic dental insert capable of enhanced operating efficiency. A first transducer generates ultrasonic vibrations. A connecting body has a proximal end and a distal end having a tip attached thereto. The proximal end is attached to the first transducer so as to receive the ultrasonic vibrations therefrom and to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations toward the tip attached to the distal end. The ultrasonic dental insert may be inserted into a handpiece for providing electromagnetic energy to the first transducer to generate the ultrasonic vibrations. The ultrasonic insert, when seated in the handpiece, is substantially decoupled, on a rotary axis, from the handpiece. A rotary force need only be applied to the insert to rotate it in the handpiece. At least one light source substantially proximate or distal to the tip may also be provided.
US08435032B2
Methods of use are provided, relating to a bracket with a pad for affixing it to a tooth of a patient, with a bracket body that has a slot for receiving an orthodontic wire, and with a channel-like wire guide which has wire guide surfaces for guiding the wire and which is assigned a lateral insertion area for insertion of the wire into the wire guide, wherein the insertion area has, in the longitudinal direction of the wire, a curved section through which the wire can be inserted into the wire guide in an elastically deformed state, such that the wire, on forming back to a rectilinear state, locks in the wire guide, and that the wire guide surfaces enclose the wire in a circle shape, such that the wire is held longitudinally displaceably in the wire guide by the wire guide surfaces and is secured against escaping laterally from the wire guide.
US08435031B2
A new and useful orthodontic clasp that is more resistant to breakage, and when in use is unlikely to separate from its associated orthodontic appliance should breakage occur, comprising two metal wires crossed at an angle and held together with a weld/solder joint, said weld/solder joint having four wire segments extending from said two metal wires crossed at the weld/solder joint, two of said wire segments adjacent and longer in length and two of said wire segments adjacent and shorter in length, said four wire segments each having a clasp wire bend.
US08435025B2
Honeycomb extrusion die apparatus include a die body including a first set of die pins circumscribed by a second set of die pins. At least a portion of the end face of die pins of the second set of die pins are positioned along a peripheral surface extending at an oblique angle with respect to the extrusion direction. A lateral width of the open end of a plurality of discharge slots defined by the second set of die pins is larger than a lateral width of the open end of a plurality of discharge slots defined by the first set of die pins. Methods of making a honeycomb extrusion die apparatus are also provided.
US08435016B2
A vertical shaft pumping system includes a hollow shaft with an inner bore, an inlet end and an outlet end, the outlet end with at least one liquid distribution hole. It further includes an impeller positioned at the lower inlet end of the shaft, with a cylindrical base portion with a lower end, a central hole for drawing fluid into the shaft, and a plurality of teeth extending upwards from the cylindrical base portion and extending radially from the central hole to the outer cylindrical circumference for increasing tractive force of liquid in the shaft when the impeller and shaft are rotating; and a motor for rotating the shaft with the impeller to centrifugally pump a liquid vertically in the shaft from the lower inlet end to the upper outlet end.
US08435013B2
A reciprocating compressor includes a motor having a motor shaft, four cylinders provided in perpendicular directions relative to an axial direction of the motor shaft, and four pistons Each piston has a piston head part and a rod part formed integrally with the piston head part. Each piston head part is fitted into one of the four cylinders in a reciprocable fashion. Each rod part is rotatably mounted to an eccentric shaft that is fixed to the motor shaft.
US08435012B2
The disclosure is generally directed to a wheel-mounted, centrifugally activated, air compressor that will automatically inflate an inflatable vehicle tire back to the proper pressure level when small under-inflation situations occur (e.g., the occurrence of small-to-medium air leaks in a tire). Moreover, the device can be easily attach or fitted into the design of a steel or aluminum wheel, or fitted into a hubcap without modifying the standard design of the wheel-hub assembly. The wheel-mounted device includes a mounting base, cylinder assemblies, and spring-biased centrifugal arms, and is designed to convert changes in the centrifugal force felt by the centrifugal arms as wheel rotation accelerates or decelerates/stops into varying force exerted on positive-displacement pistons. This in turn actuates positive-displacement pumping action at the cylinder assemblies, each of which can provide a short burst of pressurized air into the charging line connected into the associated tire with each compressive stroke.
US08435011B2
An integrated compressor and pump unit suitable for installation on a vehicle and draw rotary power from a power source of the vehicle. The unit includes a compressor unit and a separate pump unit. The compressor unit has a rotary input shaft coupled to a rotary compressing device of the compressor unit. The pump unit is mounted to the compressor unit and has a rotary input shaft coupled to a rotary pumping device of the pump unit. The pump unit is secured to the compressor unit and rotary motion is transferred from the rotary input shaft of the compressor unit to the rotary input shaft of the pump unit such that the rotary compressing and rotary pumping devices operate in unison and in series.
US08435007B2
The present invention provides a hybrid turbomachinery component for use in a gas turbine engine. The hybrid turbomachinery component may be operative to direct the working fluid of the gas turbine engine and/or addi energy to the working fluid and/or extract energy from the working fluid. One or more portions of the hybrid turbomachinery component are made from one material, and other portions of the hybrid turbomachinery component are made from another material.
US08435006B2
A fan is disclosed herein. The fan includes a hub portion operable to rotate about an axis. The hub portion extends along the axis between forward and aft ends. The fan also includes at least one platform operably fixed with the hub portion. The at least one platform at least partially encircles the axis. The fan also includes at least one airfoil extending from the at least one platform radially outward relative to the axis between a base and a tip. The at least one platform terminates at forward and aft circumferential edges spaced from one another along the axis. At least one of the forward and aft circumferential edges extends about the axis and along the axis.
US08435005B2
A manufacturing method of an impeller includes forming a plurality of blades integrally on a blade attachment surface of one of a disc and a cover, placing the cover on a floor so as to face up the blade attachment surface of the cover, disposing the disc on the cover so as to face down the blade attachment surface of the disc, and bonding the plurality of blades to the blade attachment surface of the other of the disc and the cover which is not formed integrally with the plurality of blades by using a bonding material.
US08435004B1
A turbine rotor blade with a squealer pocket formed by tip rails on the blade tip. A row of tip cooling holes extend along an inner side of the tip rails on the pressure side and the suction side to provide cooling for the blade tip and limit leakage flow across the blade tip gap. A number of vortex flow blockers are positioned within the squealer pocket and extend from the tip rails and into the squealer pocket beyond the tip cooling holes to block any formation of vortex flow from the cooling air discharged through the tip cooling holes. The tip rail crown can be narrower such that a tip crown knife edge is formed. The tip cooling holes are slanted toward the tip rails to discharge cooling air toward the blade tip gaps.
US08435000B2
A variable vane actuation system is disclosed herein. The variable vane actuation system includes a ring member disposed for pivoting movement about a centerline axis. The ring member is engaged with a plurality of vanes in a turbine engine such that the plurality of vanes pivot in response to the pivoting movement of the ring member. The variable vane actuation system also includes a ring moving device engaged with the ring member at first and second positions spaced from one another about the centerline axis. The ring moving device is operable to apply first and second forces, respectively, at the first and second positions to pivot the ring member.
US08434999B2
A spline seal for a hot gas path component is provided. The spline seal may include a first metal layer and a second metal layer. The first metal layer may have a first volumetric thermal expansion coefficient. The second metal layer may be disposed adjacent the first metal layer and have a second volumetric thermal expansion coefficient. The second volumetric thermal expansion coefficient may be higher than the first volumetric thermal expansion coefficient. When the spline seal is exposed to a heat source, the first and second metal layers may deform to provide a seal between the hot gas path component and an adjacent hot gas path component.
US08434986B2
A washer includes a wedge-shaped main body, a wedge-shaped adjusting portion moveably positioned on the main body and a flexible connecting portion interconnecting the main body and the adjusting portion. The main body defines a through hole through which the screw passes. The main body includes a bottom surface and a positioning surface angled relative to the bottom surface. The adjusting portion includes a flat contact surface and a latching surface contacting the positioning surface of the main body. The latching surface is angled relative to the contact surface. A wedge angle of the adjusting portion equals that of the main body, thus the bottom surface of the main body is substantially parallel with the contact surface of the adjusting portion.
US08434984B2
A novel one piece integrated fastener is provided which includes a deformable sleeve for receiving a pin where the pin has an elongated pin shank, terminating at a first pin end in a pin head and terminating at a second pin end in an externally threaded portion, and a transitional section integrally connected between the first pin end and the second pin end. The deformable sleeve may include a hollow tubular shank terminating at a first sleeve end in a sleeve head having an opening for receiving the pin and terminating at a second sleeve end having an internal sleeve head surface for engagement with the external pin head side surface when in an assembled position. The sleeve includes a first sleeve section, a second sleeve section and a third sleeve section having an internal surface for engaging the externally threaded portion of the pin upon installation.
US08434982B2
A fastener assembly including an internally threaded nut and an externally threaded screw for securing at least two materials together. A combined thickness TM of the materials is less than a length SL of the screw inserted into the materials. The nut includes a head, a shank extending from the head, and an internally threaded bore extending into the shank. The screw includes a head and an externally threaded shank adapted to threadingly engage the internally threaded bore of the nut. An encapsulating plastic layer covers the head of the nut. The plastic layer extends under and covers a bottom surface of the head. The plastic layer has a thickness TE below the bottom surface of the head which is equal to or greater than a difference between the screw length SL and the material thickness TM.
US08434981B2
A screw anchor for concrete attachment to a railroad tie or solid track comprises external threads (16) disposed on the exterior of the screw anchor (10) and internal threads (18) disposed inside the screw anchor (10) for force-fitted connecting to a fastening element (30), wherein the screw anchor (10) comprises two sections (12, 14) adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction, the first section (12) having a substantially cylindrical external shape and the second section (14) having a substantially conical external shape, and wherein the second section (14) is disposed between the first section (12) and an inlet opening (26) for the fastening element (30).
US08434975B2
A double-sided milling cutting insert has usable upper and lower faces. The upper face has a polygonal shape with curved edges. The lower face has a rotationally symmetrical relation to the upper face. Flank faces connect edges of the upper face to corresponding edges of the lower face. Upper cutting edges are formed on one of the edges of the upper face. The upper chip-forming portions have rake faces inclined downwardly from the upper cutting edges inwardly of the cutting insert and a plurality of protrusions arranged along inner boundaries of the rake faces for deflecting chips. When the cutting insert is mounted on the cutting tool, a width of the rake face of the upper chip-forming portion adjacent to an edge portion forming a main cutting edge gradually increases in a direction going away from a rotational axis of the cutting tool.
US08434974B2
A milling cutter and a cutting insert therefor for rough and smooth machining of a workpiece. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US08434968B2
A quay structure (1) comprising a quay top (12) is described, wherein one or more storage receptacles (2), which are structured in a manner allowing them to receive an anchor chain (4), are disposed underneath an available area (16) provided on, or in association with, the quay top (12), the storage receptacle (2) being provided with a cover (23) forming, when in a closed state, a portion of said available area (16). A method of using the quay structure (1) for storage of an anchor chain in association with a maintenance operation on the anchor chain is also described.
US08434965B2
An impact absorption facility for road makes it possible to protect a road center, a road side, a road ramp, an entering side of a tunnel or an underground road, pillars, faith silk or others and to absorb the impact of vehicle collided and to decelerate during a collision by decreasing the impacts occurring due to the impact of a vehicle by installing the impact absorption facility even in a highway ramp, and it is possible to prevent a vehicle from entering an opposite road lane or going out of a road for thereby allowing the vehicle to run on a normal road and to return to a road. A traffic accident can be effectively prevented with the help of a lighting lamp or a reflection lamp when a vehicle approaches the impact absorption facility when a driver drives at night with sleepiness.
US08434961B2
A wobble joint fitting for an adjustment device of a motor vehicle seat, in particular for a seat back hinge fitting, comprises (a) a first fitting part comprising an internal ring gear, (b) a toothed eccentric gear that engages the internal ring gear and that has an eccentric hole, (c) an eccentric to which a rotatable drive part is associated and which comprises wedge segments, (d) a second fitting part that is adjustable with respect to the first fitting part, and (e) a wrap spring. The wrap spring is a flat open spring ring and extends over an angle of less than 360°. The eccentric gear comprises a collar for the spring ring to fit against.
US08434959B2
A cosmetic container for retaining and dispensing a cosmetic material is provided. The cosmetic container includes a first portion including an applicator, a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion and configured to move between a first position in which the applicator is exposed and a second position in which the applicator is concealed and a mirrored element coupled to the first portion. The mirrored element is positionable behind the applicator when the second portion is moved to the first position to assist a user in applying the cosmetic material.
US08434958B2
An application system is disclosed, e.g., for the application of a sealing, adhesive or other coating material having a high viscosity, for example, on vehicle bodies. An exemplary application system may include an application robot fitted with an applicator having at least one application nozzle for the coating material, and a dosing device for general dosing of the coating material applied by the application nozzle, as may be desired. An exemplary dosing device may include a screw pump or a spiral pump that is built into or onto the applicator, or into or onto a robot arm of the displacement machine.
US08434957B2
A knock-type writing instrument is provided, which allows an easy refill exchange with a simple operation while inhibiting deformation of slits, breakage of a shaft tube, etc., during the refill exchange.
US08434955B2
In the case of a cosmetic unit, including a container for holding a cosmetic, a closure cap for the container, and an applicator, which is arranged on the closure cap and is intended for applying the cosmetic, wherein two such cosmetic units can be connected to each other via a coupling device, the cosmetic unit has a coupling device which is formed on the closure cap and is intended for connection to a second cosmetic unit having a corresponding coupling device, wherein the coupling device has a coupling recess which extends perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis of the cosmetic unit and the inner wall of which forms at least one undercut, and a coupling projection which is of complementary design to the coupling recess in such a manner that the coupling projection of a first cosmetic unit can be pushed, by a pushing movement of the cosmetic units which are to be connected, into the coupling recess of the second cosmetic unit and, in the pushed-in state, is held there in an interlocking manner.
US08434946B2
Bolt-on clamp extrusions for fastening a track to support base extrusion for providing customers with a simple-to-assemble, customizable, reconfigurable, and user-friendly solution for reliable linear motion track assembly. A back-to-back track configuration provides a low-profile track assembly. Custom made base extrusions include deformable fingers disposed in the slot to ensure proper fit despite a variance in track size.
US08434940B2
The present invention relates to an apparatus, which works according to galvanic principles, in particular to a lithium-ion accumulator or, respectively, a lithium-ion cell, with at least two electrode devices (10; 20), in particular, a cathode and an anode, in particular, a separator device (30), arranged between two electrode devices, the apparatus (2) comprises, according to the invention, at least one or a plurality of glass fibers (18, 28, 38) which are configured or, respectively, operable as temperature sensor. It can comprise a net (16, 26, 36) formed by glass fibers, or an arrangement of a plurality of glass fibers, which are arranged substantially in parallel to each other, wherein at least one glass fiber (18, 28, 38) is configured or operable as temperature sensor. Such a glass fiber structure can be arranged at the surface of a separator device (30) and/or the cathode, respectively, anode device (10, 20) and can serve as carrier material for this device (30, 10, 20) or can be embedded into this device.
US08434939B2
The present invention relates to a method of measuring a temperature and/or temperature distribution at a resolution <1 &mgr; m in an object and to a device for performing such method, more particularly to a microscope for performing such method. The method comprises applying a molecular thermometer embedded in a matrix layer on an object, photoexciting the said molecular thermometer with a light source of said microscope and measuring emission of radiation from said molecular thermometer with two photodetectors of said microscope. A first intensity at a first wavelength is measured by said first detector, a second intensity at a second wavelength is measured by said second.detector, and a ratio of said intensities is calculated and used to determine a temperature with a calibrated curve. Said microscope is a confocal microscope or a stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscope.
US08434938B2
An apparatus for monitoring a temperature and/or a temperature-dependent parameter of an optical element arranged in a path of a laser beam includes a measuring light source to produce measuring radiation and direct the measuring radiation to the optical element, a detector arranged to detect a portion of the measuring radiation that has passed through a passage region of the optical element, an evaluating device connected to the detector to monitor the temperature and/or the temperature-dependent parameter. The evaluating device is configured to determine the temperature and/or the temperature-dependent parameter based on an intensity of the measuring radiation detected by the detector in the passage region.
US08434935B2
A heating furnace for testing middle and long span structures including a modular partition structure to adjust an inner volume of the heating furnace, effectively performing a load-coupled heating test of full scale members such as a beam, a short column, a slab, a conjunction frame, and a deck plate. The heating furnace for testing middle and long span structures includes a partition unit formed of a refractory material and partitioning a heating space in a main body to block transfer of heat generated from one space to the other space. A test sample is installed in the heating space of the main body partitioned by the partition unit according to a size of the test sample, and then, heat and a compression force are applied to the test sample to perform a fireproof performance test. The fireproof performance test of structure members having various lengths of 4 m, 6 m and 10 m can be performed, and consumption of various utilities consumed during the test can be optimized. In addition, since the heating furnace can perform an actual material test of full scale structures such as continuous span beams and long span beams, deck plates, or bridge trusses of civil structures, deck plates for ships, and so on, target fireproof performance estimation of various shape conditions can be performed to increase applicability of the test.
US08434934B2
Timepiece (1) including a case (11) in which systems (3, 5, 7, 9) are mounted for operating the timepiece, controlled by control members (15, 21, 19) that project from the case, at least one of the control members (15, 19, 21) cooperating with an anti-shock device (33, 35) mounted in the case (11) and including a main component (91, 111), which is moveably mounted relative to the case (11), characterized in that the main component (91, 111) includes a permanent mechanical connection with the part (63, 41) of each system (25, 23) to which the at least one control member is attached, which enables the component to be reversibly uncoupled from the at least one control member (15, 19, 21) when a force greater than a predetermined threshold is exerted on the at least one control member and in that the mechanical connection is of the sliding type, and includes a jumper spring (95, 115) elastically mounted relative to a pin (96, 116).
US08434933B2
A static continuous flow mixer, with or without reaction, is provided with basic cells, which are individually provided with an individualized chamber (1). The basic cells are also provided with at least two connecting channels (2), at least two of them being oblique relatively to the resulting direction (x) of the flow in the mixer, and with at least two additional apertures (0) for connection with the exterior. The cells interconnect successively in the space, forming a network. The mixer promotes convective processes. The dimensions (Dj, li, di, φ), the geometry of the chambers (spherical or cylindrical) and of the channels (cylindrical or prismatic) may vary, as well as their quantity.
US08434928B2
In the case of an extruder with at least two parallel, rotating shafts turning in the same direction, the shafts are equipped with interlocking feed screw segments (24) and working segments (26). The working segments (26), which lead to a greater spread between the two shafts than the feed screw segments (24), are formed as a single piece as a combined element (22) using the feed screw segment (24).
US08434926B2
In a light source apparatus, a method of manufacturing the light source and a backlight assembly having the same, a light guide plate (LGP) includes an upper surface and a lower surface facing each other and a first side surface and a second side surface. The light source is placed in the LGP adjacent to the first side surface and emits light toward the second side surface. The power supply unit is electrically connected to the light source and partially placed in the LGP. The light source may include a lamp or a light-emitting diode (LED). The power supply unit may include a wire or a power supply substrate. The light source apparatus may be formed by an injection molding process using lower and upper mold frames. Therefore, backlight assembly size, the number of parts and manufacturing steps may be decreased, and the illumination quality may be improved.
US08434924B1
A backlight for providing light to a computer-controlled display device, includes a plurality of first light sources, a plurality of second light sources, and a light guide panel (LGP). The LGP has at least one edge and a surface facing a display surface of the display device and is adapted for guiding light emitted by, and received from, the first and second light sources at one or more edges of the LGP to the surface of the LGP. The first light sources include first light emitting diodes (LEDs) having a peak emission wavelength of greater than 500 nm. The second light sources include second LEDs having a peak emission wavelength of less than 480 nm and phosphor material that absorbs a portion of light emitted from the second LEDs and converts the absorbed light into light emitted from the phosphor material having a peak emission wavelength greater than 500 nm.
US08434923B2
An LED backlight module includes at least one LED and a light guide plate. The light guide plate includes a light incident surface, a light emitting surface connected to the light incident surface, and a bottom surface parallel to the light emitting surface. The at least one LED is placed on the light incident surface and spaced at regular intervals. The light from the at least one LED enters the light guide plate from the light incident surface and is reflected to the light emitting surface by the bottom surface. The light guide plate defines a plurality of concave dots on the bottom surface. The bottom surface is divided into a plurality of discontinuous dot zones. In the dot zone closest to the incident surface, proximity of the dot to the LED decreases the depth and the distribution density of the dots.
US08434913B2
The invention provides a substantially round illumination device (1) comprising a light source (10) and a substantially round waveguide (20). The waveguide (20) comprises a first waveguide surface (21), a second waveguide surface (22), a substantially round waveguide entrance window (23), a substantially round waveguide edge window (24), and a central axis (100). The first waveguide surface (21) or the second waveguide surface (22) or both the first waveguide surface (21) and the second waveguide surface (22) further comprise a plurality of elongated structures (200) each having an elongation axis (201) substantially parallel to a radius (101) perpendicular to the central axis (100).
US08434910B2
Disclosed are a light emitting device package and a lighting system. The light emitting device package includes a body including a recess and a plurality of light emitting device receiving parts formed in a bottom surface of the recess, a plurality of light emitting devices separately provided in the light emitting device receiving parts, a plurality of individual lenses spaced apart from each other on the light emitting device receiving parts, and a common lens covering the individual lenses, wherein at least one of the plurality of individual lenses comprises a concave part formed at the upper portion of the individual lens.
US08434904B2
Certain example embodiments relate to an improved IGU with first and second glass substrates, spaced apart and defining a gap therebetween. An edge seal is provided around a periphery of the first and second substrates, the edge seal forming an hermetic seal in certain example instances. An emitter is disposed in the gap defined by the first and second glass substrates. A conductive interface is provided through the edge seal, and is arranged to interface with the emitter and to provide electrical current to the emitter. The conductive interface in certain example embodiments may include one or more bus bars, one or more pattered thin film lines, etc.
US08434896B1
An under-bed mounted accent lighting apparatus comprises a series of lamps which automatically illuminate to cast a soft glow from underneath the bed is herein disclosed. The lamps are electrically interconnected via standard wiring and adhesively affixed along the bed frame. The lamps are powered by a common user configurable timer module which plugs into a standard wall outlet.
US08434888B2
A safety helmet or head piece having an incident light source disposed on the top or the crown of the helmet or head piece, means for controlling the orientation of the light source, wherein light emanates as a beam substantially vertically and upwardly irrespective of the orientation of the helmet or head piece. The light beam is a single or collimated beam comprised by one or more laser light sources of any color or color mix. The light source is mounted on the helmet or head piece so that the beam always emanates in substantially a vertical upwards direction irrespective of the orientation of the helmet or head piece. The invention being directed to the location and rescue of injured workers in poor visibility conditions and to the reduction and prevention of accidents in general.
US08434875B2
A light source unit comprising an optical wheel having a plurality of segment areas and including luminescent light emitting areas where at least two luminescent material layers having different characteristics are provided in a circumferential direction, a wheel motor for driving to rotate the optical wheel, an excitation light source for shining light on to the optical wheel, a light emitting light source and a collective optical system for collecting a light beam from the optical wheel and a light beam from the light emitting light source to the same optical path, wherein the excitation light source is selectively turned on to illuminate the at least two luminescent material layers having different characteristics which are disposed on the luminescent light emitting areas, and wherein the light emitting light source is turned on for a period of time during which the excitation light source does not shine the excitation light.
US08434873B2
An interactive projection device includes a light source configured to emit an input light beam, wherein the light source comprises a visible light emitting device; a first beam splitter configured to split the input light beam into first and second split light beams; a second beam splitter configured to split a scattered light beam received from a surface into third and fourth split light beams; an image forming device configured to produce an image light beam based on the first split light beam and emit the image light beam onto the surface through the first and second splitters, thereby generating a projection image on the surface; and a detector configured to detect the invisible light of the third split light beam, thereby acquiring a scattering image from the surface.
US08434869B2
An apparatus mounted proximate to or on a base of a slit lamp illumination unit operates to automatically lock or secure the illumination unit in a stationary position after each eye examination and further operates to unlock it just before each examination. The apparatus may take the form of a threaded rod that replaces the conventional thumbscrew. The threaded rod is rotated by a motor, which receives instructions from a controller, both located within a housing. A touch sensor on the housing communicates with the controller to activate the locking or unlocking of the threaded rod and may also provide a signal to a transceiver for powering the illumination unit ON or OFF.
US08434867B2
Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for analyzing eye tracking data. The eye tracking data can represent a number of different scanpaths and can be analyzed, for example, to find patterns or commonality between the scanpaths. According to one embodiment, a method of analyzing eye tracking data can comprise receiving the eye tracking data which can include a plurality of scanpaths, each scanpath representing a sequence of regions of interest on a stimulus image. A dotplot can be generated and can include each of the plurality of scanpaths. One or more patterns within the eye tracking data can be identified based on the dotplot.
US08434858B2
Provided is a cartridge unit for a printer. The cartridge unit has upper and lower plate members having an ink bag located between the plate members to define an ink volume. The plate members can be displaced towards and away from each other by an external force. A bag constrictor assembly engages the plate members and is configured to act on the bag when the plate members are displaced towards each other to reduce the ink volume. A valve insert has an inlet valve to facilitate refilling of the bag with ink and an outlet valve to facilitate ink delivery to a printhead. A filter cover is positioned between the valve insert and the ink bag to filter contaminants and air bubbles passing between the ink bag and said valve insert.
US08434853B1
Example embodiments disclosed herein relate to a printhead cap assembly. An example includes a rigid base member and a mount gimbaled with respect to the rigid base member and configured to define a recess including a side. The printhead cap assembly additionally includes a sealing member configured to include a retention feature positioned in the recess and engaging the side to orient and couple the sealing member to the mount so that the sealing member retains an original shape.
US08434849B2
An apparatus includes a printing unit and a drying unit. The printing unit performs printing on a sheet using ink. The drying unit dries the sheet on which the ink is applied at the printing unit as the sheet is conveyed in the drying unit. The drying unit causes hot air heated by a heater to circulate through a housing and blows the hot air to the sheet. The housing includes an opening through which movement of gas between inside and outside the housing can be adjusted. When conveyance of the sheet in the drying unit stops, the apparatus is controlled to reduce an output of the heater and to increase the movement of the gas through the opening.
US08434838B2
The individual locker assembly for refrigerators is intended for use in the workplace to permit employees to secure their perishable foods and beverages for lunches and snacks. The locker assembly is also suitable for installation in refrigerator units in medical offices and the like for the secure storage of controlled medications and the like that must be refrigerated. The locker assembly is assembled from top, bottom, side, and rear panels, and a series of intermediate shelves and dividers installed therein defining a plurality of individual storage compartments. Vertical panels include spring-biased pins that engage mating holes provided in the upper and lower interior panels of the refrigeration unit, to secure the assembly in place. Each compartment has its own lockable door. The locks may be combination units, key locks, external hasps and padlocks, or other lock types as desired. Integral locks may include provision for coin operation, if desired.
US08434834B2
A tool identification and location system for a tool containing cabinet. The system includes a plastic sheet having a surface with cross sectional outlines of the cabinet drawers as well as multiple, parallel tool receiving compartments in each of the drawers. The sheet is connected to a sidewall of the cabinet so that the outlines of each drawer are in horizontal alignment with corresponding drawers of the cabinet, and tool cross sections, called profiles, are mounted to the sheet, such as by magnets or hook and loop fasteners, for indicating to an operator the exact location, drawer and compartment, of each tool in the cabinet.
US08434832B2
A lock for a computer device comprises a lever operable to be positioned in a locked position and comprising at least one flange, a locking base slidably coupled to a device housing and attached to the lever, and a spring coupled to the locking base and to the device housing and operated upon by the lever, where in the locked position the at least one flange slides in a first corresponding at least one notch formed on the device housing, and where the locking base slides into a corresponding second notch formed on the device housing.
US08434830B2
An electronic control unit for a brake control apparatus has a pressure-command-signal memorizing portion, which outputs a pressure command signal to a brake force control unit, when a braking operation is not carried out by a vehicle driver, in order to gradually increase brake fluid pressure. The memorizing portion memorizes the pressure command signal as a gap-zero pressure signal sent to the brake force control unit when vehicle deceleration exceeds a predetermined value. A pre-charge control portion outputs the gap-zero pressure signal to carry out a pre-charge control, when the braking operation is not carried out, so that a gap between a friction element and a non-friction element is reduced to a desired amount before an actual braking operation by the vehicle driver.
US08434827B2
An infant support structure includes a support frame, a seat portion coupled to the support frame and configured for receiving an infant in a seated position, and a restraint assembly. The restraint assembly is coupled to the seat portion and configured to retain the infant in the seat portion. The restraint assembly includes a strap portion having a polymer coating.
US08434825B2
A footrest is provided that includes a footplate element, an upper swing arm, and a lower swing arm, which footrest can be arranged on a wall that faces a seat, and allows several seating positions.
US08434815B2
A plurality of beads (2) extending in the vehicle longitudinal direction are formed parallel to each other lined up in the vehicle width direction on an inner panel (1). Accordingly, an upper flange (5), a vertical wall (4), a lower flange (3), and a vertical wall (4) are formed connected in this order at a cross-section in the vehicle width direction. The vertical wall (4) includes a lower vertical wall (4a) and an upper vertical wall (4b), and there is a bend line (4c) at the boundary between the two which is bent. The inclination angle of the upper vertical wall (4b) is between 30° and 60° inclusive, which is greater than the inclination angle of the lower vertical wall (4a). The bend line (4c) is positioned more than ½ way up between the lower flange (3) and the upper flange (5) so as to be closer to the upper flange (5) than the lower flange (3).
US08434812B2
A vehicle visor is provided that includes a mirror assembly. The visor body has a first side and a second side and pivots between a stowed position and a downward use position. The visor body further includes a mirror assembly located on the visor body. The mirror assembly includes a conversation mirror that is extendable from a first side of the visor body for viewing from the first side of the visor body, and is stowable within the visor body for viewing through an aperture from the second side of the visor body. The mirror may serve as a vanity mirror.
US08434798B2
An attaching structure is used for assembling a first member to a second member. The attaching structure includes a latching element and the connecting assembly. The latching element is assembled to the first member. The connecting assembly includes a seat and a fastener. The seat adjustably latches to the latching element. The fastener is threaded into the first member, the second member, and matches with the seat.
US08434793B2
The seal made between two surfaces is enhanced by forming a coating (22), such as a self-assembled monolayer of a functionalized fluorinated macromolecule, on one or both of the surfaces.
US08434789B2
There is provided a framework structure for a vehicle where two members can be welded to each other even when the two members are disposed adjacent to each other and the extending directions thereof are changed, thereby improving strength.A kick portion 11 of a front side member 1 includes a kick lower member 2 of which an extending direction is changed so that a front portion of the kick lower member rises, and a long kick upper member 3 that is provided along the kick lower member 2. The kick lower member 2 and the kick upper member 3 are joined to each other at a kick lower member flange middle portion 22C and a kick upper member flange middle portion 32C. The kick lower member flange middle portion 22C and the kick upper member flange middle portion 32C are formed in a linear shape.
US08434784B2
An airbag apparatus is mounted on a vehicle as housed in a housing and includes an airbag inflatable with inflation gas for catching an object of protection. The airbag includes a sheet-shaped circumferential wall made from synthetic resin. The circumferential wall is plastically deformable in such a manner as to be elongated due to increase of internal pressure caused by being pressed by the object of protection when arresting the object of protection at full inflation.
US08434782B2
A roof structure for an automobile includes an airbag 7 configured to protect the head of an occupant and an attachment bracket 8. In the roof structure for an automobile, the airbag 7 is attached across a front pillar 4 and a roof side 1 via the attachment bracket 8, and the attachment bracket 8 is arranged on the back side of a periphery of a joint portion 33 of an upper end portion of a front pillar trim 5 and a headliner 3.
US08434781B2
A baby safety car seat convertible into a rollable baby seat, and comprising a front, head area and a rear, feet area, the head area being higher than the feet area; a right and left pair of front and rear legs, and a handle. The legs of each pair have distal ends associated with wheels and proximal ends articulated to the seat at corresponding leg attachment area. Both legs are rotatable relative to each other and to the seat between a storage position to be taken in a safety car seat mode of the seat, and an operational position to be taken in a rolling-carrier mode of the seat. The legs can have an intermediate position between the storage and operational position, and can be rotatable between the intermediate and operational positions, at least partially under the influence of gravity force.
US08434774B2
A vehicle has a frame, at least one front wheel connected to the frame, at least one front suspension assembly connecting the at least one front wheel to the frame, at least one rear wheel connected to the frame, and at least one rear suspension assembly connecting the at least one rear wheel to the frame. At least one of the at least one front and at least one rear suspension assemblies includes an air spring. A seat is connected to the frame. An engine is connected to the frame and is operatively connected to at least one of the wheels. An air compressor is connected to the frame and fluidly communicates with the at least one air spring for supplying air to the at least one air spring. A control unit is electrically connected to the air compressor for controlling an operation of the air compressor.
US08434764B2
A gaming device presents multiple hands of the game played on the gaming device as part of a single round of game play. The player wagers on whether the composite set of the multiple hands has certain attributes. If the attributes are present in the composite set, the player receives a winning outcome and receives a benefit. In a particularly contemplated implementation, the game is blackjack, and the attributes are based on the number and type of cards as well as the manner in which individual hands beat the dealer and by how many points.
US08434763B2
A lawn game uses a pair of markers toward which each player rolls a disk while standing proximate the other maker and/or tosses rings. Once all disks have been rolled or all of the rings have been tossed, or both, the disk or ring closest to the marker determines which player scores points for that round. Disk scoring is based on the number on the disk facing upwardly or both numbers if the disk remains on its side for each disk within a certain distance from the marker using a multiplier if the disk contacts the marker. Ring scoring is based on the proximity to the approached marker with a ring encircling the top of the marker being the best. A rope is removably attachable to the markers and helps with measurements.
US08434762B1
An air table game assembly has a platform. Outer sections of the platform have a perimeter edge and an interior side with the interior side being adjacent to a central section. A border wall extends around the perimeter edge of each outer section. Openings in the border wall define goals positioned in each of the outer sections. A first barrier is pivotable between a retracted position and a deployed position. The first barrier extends across a first one of the outer sections defining a first excluded section when in the deployed position. A bottom panel is coupled to the border wall in spaced relationship to the platform to define an air chamber. A plurality of vents extends through the platform and a blower is coupled to the bottom panel. The blower urges air through the vents in the platform.
US08434752B2
A method for transporting newspapers includes the steps of feeding an asymmetrically folded multiple section newspaper into a pocket of a pocket conveyor of an inserting machine, wherein the asymmetrically folded multiple section newspaper has an extended lap having a height of at least 15% of a height of the asymmetrically folded newspaper when unfolded. A face of a first section of the headline side of the newspaper, when fed into the pocket is adjacent a movable wall of the pocket, and a back of a last section of the headline side of the newspaper adjacent a fixed wall of the pocket. The method further comprises feeding one or more inserts from a hopper to the pocket, where the inserts are fed into an opening between newspaper sections, removing the newspapers with the inserts therein from the pocket with a gripper conveyor, and releasing the newspapers with the inserts from the gripper conveyor headline up on a lapped stream conveyor.
US08434748B1
Various gel springs can be constructed for cushioning purposes.
US08434742B2
The invention is directed to a gas powered self-contained winch comprising an external casing including a first side wall, a second side wall, a top wall, a bottom wall and a stabilizing bar. The invention includes a combustion engine; a transmission assembly, a gear assembly and a clutch assembly that connect to a spool capable of winding and unwinding a cable wire. A hand controller can communicate with the clutch assembly through a cable wire sufficient to control the winding and unwinding of the cable.
US08434733B2
A valve for use in the control of pressurized air from a pressure tank, the pressure tank including a wall in which an outlet port is formed, the wall having an inner surface and an outer surface. The valve comprises a valve body of generally cylindrical configuration having an inner end which in use is located inside the pressure tank and an outer end which in use is located outside of the tank. A flow passage extends through the valve body, the flow passage having an inlet at or adjacent the inner end of the body and an outlet at or adjacent the outer end of the body. A valve seat surrounds the flow passage and a valve closure member is moveable towards and away from the valve seat to close and open the valve respectively. An operating means is provided for moving the valve closure member in order to operate the valve. The valve is characterized in that the valve body has at least one laterally extending mounting formation at or adjacent the inner end thereof, the mounting formation being shaped and dimensioned to enable the inner end and the mounting formation to be introduced into the pressured tank through the outlet port, and when in position, the mounting formation engages with the inner surface of the wall of the tank adjacent the outlet port. The valve includes a mounting collar movable towards the mounting formation so as to engage the outer surface of the wall adjacent the opening and thereby clamp the tank wall between the mounting formation and the mounting collar.
US08434726B2
A mounting apparatus for mounting a data storage device on a bracket includes a locating member fixed on the bracket. The bracket includes a sidewall defining a first through hole and a second through hole at a sidewall back. The sidewall defines a first fixing slot and a second fixing slot at a sidewall front. The data storage device defines a fixing hole. A fixing portion is located on a first end of the locating member corresponds to the first through hole, the second through hole and the fixing hole. A locking portion is located on a second end of the locating member corresponds to the first fixing slot and the second fixing slot. The data storage device is fixed on a first position and a second position of the bracket.
US08434723B2
An asymmetric tetrahedral vortex generator that provides for control of three-dimensional flow separation over an underlying surface by bringing high momentum outer region flow to the wall of the structure using the generated vortex. The energized near-wall flow remains attached to the structure surface significantly further downstream. The device produces a swirling flow with one stream-wise rotation direction which migrates span-wise. When optimized, the device produces very low base drag on structures by keeping flow attached on the leeside surface thereof. This device can: on hydraulic structures, prevent local scour, deflect debris, and reduce drag; improve heat transfer between a flow and an adjacent surface, i.e., heat exchanger or an air conditioner; reduce drag, flow separation, and associated acoustic noise on airfoils, hydrofoils, cars, boats, submarines, rotors, etc. during subsonic or supersonic conditions; and, reduce radar signatures by using faceted edges with angles amenable to stealth technologies.
US08434715B2
A thrust reverser nozzle for a gas turbine engine nacelle includes opposite and asymmetrically pivoting first and second doors defining a nacelle aft section, first and second trailing edges of the first and second doors adjacent to a propulsive jet nozzle outlet of the nacelle, the doors being pivotable simultaneously between a stowed position and a deployed position such that the first trailing edge is positioned behind the second trailing edge when the doors are in the deployed position, and the first and second fairings attached to the first and second doors in relative fixed positions to the first and second doors respectively. Male contour middle portions of the first fairings may complementarily match female contour middle portions of the second fairings and are received within the female contour middle portion when the doors are in the stowed position. The fairings may be removably attached to the doors.
US08434714B2
An aircraft landing gear for an aircraft having an engine, an outer surface, a cavity formed in the outer surface, a cover arranged to close the cavity, the landing gear being arranged to be movable between a stowed configuration, in which it is stowed in the cavity, and a deployed configuration, the landing gear comprising an engine debris guard panel arranged to inhibit tire propelled debris striking the engine whilst the landing gear is in the deployed configuration, wherein the guard panel is arranged to form at least a part of the cover when the landing gear is in the stowed configuration.
US08434711B2
In this invention, there is provided a method and device for shielding and deflecting unguided missiles, mortars and other projectiles and ordnance. A plurality of lighter-than-air balloons are tethered from a plurality of ground anchors so that the balloons are positioned spaced apart, adjacent to, along and buoyed above the border to be defended between the launch area and the target area. A defense shield is suspended from the plurality of tethered lighter-than-air balloons, extending generally vertically covering a range of heights for engaging and deflecting missiles launched along the expected trajectories.
US08434705B2
This invention relates to a shredding device having a driving unit driving a rotor including shredding tools on its periphery which for comminuting a material such as waste material and/or industrial residues, interact with a least one counter knife assembly that is arranged in a stationary fashion with respect to the machine housing during the shredding operation. The shredding device is characterized in that the counter knife assembly includes at least two counter knife bars which run approximately parallel to each other and are arranged one above the other in the rotating direction of the rotor, the counter knife bars, for the compensation of wear at the shredding tools and/or at the counter knife assembly, being arranged for an adjustment radially to the rotor axis by a mutually different degree by means of an adjustment device. A process for operating a shredding device is also described.
US08434697B1
Injection apparatus for automatically applying pest control concentrates and fertilizers into an existing underground irrigation system. Apparatus uses an electronic control system programmed to activate one or more injection pumps and to also operate the zonal flow control solenoids contained in an existing underground or other type of irrigation system. Apparatus includes a single or plurality of storage reservoirs for storing one or more additives with piping to deliver these additives to the existing irrigation system.
US08434689B2
According to embodiments, a semiconductor memory device capable of transmission and reception of information by wireless communication is provided. The semiconductor memory device includes a radio antenna for performing the wireless communication, a nonvolatile semiconductor memory element that stores information to be transmitted and received via the radio antenna, a substrate on which the nonvolatile semiconductor memory element is mounted and a wiring pattern to be connected to the nonvolatile semiconductor memory element is formed, and a switching unit that switches between a state where the wireless communication is permitted and a state where the wireless communication is rejected.
US08434681B2
Systems, apparatus, articles of manufacture and methods are provided for establishing (e.g., online) a buyer price for a first plurality of products. In one embodiment, the buyer price is lower than a retail price of the first plurality of products. A second plurality of products that the buyer has actually received during the subsequent transaction is determined. A penalty may be assessed if the first plurality of products does not correspond to the second plurality of products.
US08434680B1
A transaction product includes a housing and a transaction card. The housing defines a storage chamber and a substantially planar surface. The substantially planar surface defines a perimeter portion and a recessed portion surrounded by, spaced from, and extending substantially parallel to the recessed portion to define a recess. The housing includes opposing tabs extending from the perimeter portion, toward each other, and partially across the recessed portion. The transaction card includes a machine-readable account identifier linking the transaction card to an account or record remote from the transaction product and having a value available for use as payment toward a purchase. The transaction card defines two opposing edges each selectively secured between the recessed portion of the substantially planar surface and a different one of the opposing tabs.
US08434677B2
Systems and methods for facilitating risk assessment for point of sale transactions utilizing at least one risk triggering value (RTV) is disclosed. An RTV is a condensed version of a set of complex risk data and strategies usually found in central processing sites. After receiving a request for payment authorization, a risk value is calculated for the request. The distributed processing site compares the risk value to the RTV to determine whether to authorize payment. If the risk value is less than or equal to the RTV, the payment is authorized while a risk value greater than the RTV will not be authorized. The central site calculates a new RTV for the account and distributes the new RTV to the distributed processing site.
US08434676B2
There is provided a banknote handling system including: a reception unit configured to receive a banknote that has been put therein; a recognition unit configured to recognize the banknote that has been received by the reception unit; a storing unit having at least one first cassette configured to store or escrow the banknote that has been recognized by the recognition unit, and at least one second cassette configured to store the banknote that has been recognized by the recognition unit; an operation unit configured to receive a deposit-confirmation instruction for the banknote that has been escrowed in the first cassette; and a control unit configured to cause the banknote that has been recognized by the recognition unit to be escrowed in the first cassette and to cause, when the deposit-confirmation instruction is received by the operation unit, the banknote that has been escrowed in the first cassette to be stored in the second cassette.
US08434674B2
Fiducial markers for augmented reality are provided. A fiducial marker can be located on an object in the environment and includes retroreflectors that reflect light back towards the source of the light. A portion of the fiducial marker is masked or obscured to form a pattern in the fiducial marker including a reflective portion and a less or non-reflective portion. The pattern of the reflective portion and the less or non-reflective portion stores data that can be read by a reading device and used to generate computer-generated content that is included in an augmented image.
US08434660B2
A spindle head for performing friction stir welding includes concentric spindle shafts driven by stacked, coaxial motors contained within a spindle housing. The coaxial arrangement of the motors results in a more compact package. Each of the motors is concentrically arranged around one of the spindles by directly connecting a rotor of the motor to a spindle shaft. The stators of the motors are mounted on the housing and are concentrically arranged around the concentric spindle shafts.
US08434653B2
A portable bedding system including bedding attached to a bag having a carrying arrangement. The bedding includes a ground sheet attached to a weather proof top sheet that is folded over the ground sheet to form an enclosure for a user, and the bedding can be packed into the attached bag.
US08434650B2
A package for flaked and/or granular, consumable material includes a container having a bottom surface and sidewalls that transition through a funnel shape to a dispenser chute terminating in a container opening. A rotating dispenser wheel disposed in the dispenser chute includes a plurality of fillable compartments, and the wheel has a fill position, wherein one of the compartments is filled with contents contained in the enclosure, and a dispense position wherein the contents are released through the package opening following a predetermined rotation of the dispenser wheel. In the preferred embodiment the dispenser wheel has four quadrants defined by panels extending outwardly from a central hub. Two opposing quadrants may define fillable compartments, whereas the other two quadrants may define non-fillable compartments. The dispenser wheel is contained within a holder disposed in the dispenser chute.
US08434639B2
A push button, flip top closure for a container, includes a base portion, a push button actuator situated on the base portion and twistingly mounted thereon to pivotally rotate with respect to the base portion, a central cap having an orifice formed through the thickness thereof, the push button actuator at least partially surrounding the central cap, and a lid hingedly mounted to the base portion and positionable between at least a closed position to cover the orifice formed in the central cap and an open position to uncover the orifice formed in the central cap. The push button actuator selectively forces the lid to pivot to the open position to allow the contents of the container on which the closure is mounted to pass through the orifice in the central cap.
US08434637B2
A packaging bag for microwave oven heating, is manufactured by using a complex film at least one side of which comprises a sealant layer, folding the complex film or placing the complex films one upon another so as to encounter the sealant layers to each other, sealing the peripheral of the overlapped complex films by a main seal part to form a sealed bag, and providing in the bag a region which is isolated from a space for storing contents by a steam port seal part. The steam port seal part surrounds a steam easy permeable element. The lamination strength between the layers of the complex film in hot condition is not less than 1.5 N/15 mm in width, and the seal strength at least at the steam port seal part in hot condition is not more than 28 N/15 mm in width.
US08434634B2
A cap may include a threaded inner body and an outer cover. A ratchet mechanism may be operatively positioned between the inner body and the outer cover to directly transmit rotation from the outer cover to the inner body in the cap-unthreading direction and to transmit no more than a predetermined amount of torque from the outer cover to the inner body in the cap-threading direction. A gauge assembly may include a float, an indicator dial, and a pointer. The float is supportable at a level of fluid within the container, and the pointer is movable in response to movement of the float with the level of fluid in the container. The pointer cooperates with the indicator dial to indicate the level of fluid in the container. A translucent crystal may be positioned over the indicator dial and the pointer. The crystal may be fixed relative to the inner body.
US08434633B2
A one-way valve and a flexible package including the valve are disclosed. The valve basically comprises a base member, a flexible septum and a stake. The base member is mounted on a wall of the package and includes a valve seat and at least one inlet port. The septum is formed of a resilient material and is connected to the base member by the stake, with a first portion of the septum contiguous with the stake fixed in position with respect to the base member and a second portion of the septum engaging the valve seat and covering and sealing the at least one inlet port. The septum is arranged to flex off of the valve seat to unseal the at least one inlet port when the pressure of gas at the at least one inlet port reaches a threshold.
US08434632B2
Embodiments of the present invention provide stackable meal trays for use in transporting and heating meal casseroles in an induction oven.
US08434628B2
A cover device includes a cover plate having at least one recessed section defining an internal volume. A separating element is inserted in the recessed section and delimits the internal volume. The separating element is configured to permit the internal volume to fluidly communicate through the separating element. At least an edge portion of the cover plate is provided with a sealing element for abutment on an opposing surface of a structure to be sealed by the cover device. The sealing element is disposed at least along an edge of the recessed section and fixedly connects the cover plate with the separating element in a sealed manner.
US08434618B2
A reusable shipping container adapted to resist damage to the feet of the container and to allow the fork straps to be replaced if the fork straps or the feet are damage. The container can also easily be adapted to accommodate the use of pallet jacks without reducing the capacity of the container or increasing the weight of the container. The container is also adapted to easily receive dunnage required to protect the material being shipped in the container.
US08434616B2
The disclosure relates to volumetrically efficient systems for distributing, storing, and dispensing a number of medical or laboratory sharps with subsequent safe disposal of the used sharps. The systems comprise first and second sharps containers configured such that the combined containers, as well as contained sharps, may be shipped in a volume approximately equivalent to the volume of one of the containers.
US08434615B2
A hair-appliance holder for retaining a hot hair-styling appliance, such as a hot hair iron, on an upper edge portion of a pedestal sink basin or a towel rod and which, while retaining the hot hair iron, reduces the likelihood of burning contact by the iron with adjacent objects and a user thereof, the hair-appliance holder comprising a counterweight member, or other attachment means, a heat-resistant retaining member having at least one open end for inserting a hot hair-styling appliance, and a connecting strap member, each named member preferably being made of semi-rigid silicone.
US08434586B2
A muffler device for a refrigerant circuit with refrigerant containing refrigerant oil comprises a housing in which an upper muffler chamber and a lower muffler chamber are arranged, whereby the upper muffler chamber has an upper feed opening that can be connected to the refrigerant circuit, and the lower muffler chamber has a lower discharge opening that can be connected to the refrigerant circuit, and whereby a muffler partition is arranged between the upper and lower muffler chambers, said partition having at least one muffling pipe that connects the upper muffler chamber to the lower muffler chamber, and an upper section of said pipe with an upper opening projects into the upper muffler chamber, whereby, at a filling level that exceeds the height of the upper opening, refrigerant oil that has accumulated on the top of the muffler partition can be fed with refrigerant vapor to the lower muffler chamber.
US08434574B1
A supplemental wind propulsion power system for a vehicle having at least one battery. The system includes an air intake duct disposed on the vehicle for intercepting turbulent airflow created by the forward motion of the vehicle, an air conduit, an air turbine disposed at the outlet of the air conduit and a generator for supplying electricity to the batteries. The system further includes an air filtration system, an air heating system and grid output terminal to provide a port for supplying supplemental electricity to the electrical grid.
US08434571B2
Apparatus and methods for securement of lines to downhole well tools. A method of securing one or more lines to a well tool includes the steps of: installing the one or more lines in a groove formed longitudinally along an outer surface of the well tool, the groove having a width at the outer surface of the well tool which is narrower than a width of the groove at a position radially inward relative to the outer surface; and securing the one or more lines in the groove. A well tool includes a groove formed longitudinally along an outer surface of an outer housing of the well tool. The groove has a width at the outer surface of the well tool which is narrower than a width of the groove at a position radially inward relative to the outer surface. One or more lines are secured in the groove.
US08434569B2
The short mud saver, which can be used with top drive or rotary table drilling system is housed in a short sub, has a large axial bore for the passage of drilling mud therethrough, a fixed and a movable seal assembly. The movable seal assembly is urged into normally closed position by a stack of Belleville, wave or similar disc stack of springs. The force of the spring stack can be over-ridden by application of sufficient mud pressure from top drive or Kelly to move the moveable seal assembly. Upon application of sufficient mud pressure the movable seal assembly moves downward allowing for flow through the large axial bore. Upon closer of the mud saver a flexible washer associated with fixed seal assembly allows pressure below the mud saver to be relieved to the top of the mud saver, from where return is precluded unless the mud saver is re-opened by application of mud pressure from top drive or Kelly. The short mud saver may be integrated with internal, ball-type blow-out preventer and have a shortened retrievable plug.
US08434568B2
A method for circulating drilling fluid in a well system includes drilling a substantially vertical well bore from a surface to a subterranean zone and drilling an articulated well bore from the surface to the subterranean zone. The articulated well bore is horizontally offset from the substantially vertical well bore at the surface and intersects the substantially vertical well bore at a junction proximate the subterranean zone. The method includes drilling a drainage bore from the junction into the subterranean zone and pumping a drilling fluid through the drill string when drilling the drainage bore. The method also includes providing fluid down the substantially vertical well bore through a tubing. A fluid mixture returns up the substantially vertical well bore outside of the tubing. The fluid mixture comprises the drilling fluid after the drilling fluid exits the drill string.
US08434559B2
A well tool can include a flow path, and a flow blocking device which selectively prevents flow through the flow path. The device can include an anhydrous boron compound. A method of constructing a downhole well tool can include forming a structure of a solid mass comprising an anhydrous boron compound, and incorporating the structure into the well tool.
US08434555B2
A method of heating a subsurface hydrocarbon containing formation includes providing heat flux per volume to a first portion of a subsurface hydrocarbon containing formation. The heat flux per volume is provided by two or more first heat sources positioned in the first portion. Heat flux per volume is provided to a second portion of the subsurface hydrocarbon containing formation with the heat flux per volume being provided by two or more second heat sources positioned in the second portion. The heat flux per volume provided by the two or more second heat sources is greater than the heat flux per volume provided by the two or more first heat sources. The second portion is positioned below the first portion.
US08434554B2
Disclosed is an installation for using geothermal energy, comprising a main pipe (20) in a borehole (10) of a well. The main pipe (20) has several through-holes (23) to the surroundings and is subdivided into a top and a bottom section by means of a transverse closure (21) that has an opening in which a device or a part of a device (22) generating and/or promoting a flow is disposed. At least one heat-utilizing device (30) is arranged within the main pipe (20) which is surrounded at least in the region of the through-holes (23), preferably everywhere, by a porous bed (11) filing at least some of the remaining hollow space of the borehole (10) around the main pipe (20). The porous bed (11) is hydraulically interrupted within the main pipe (20) by a sealing material (12) at the level of the transverse closure (21). Said installation is used for delivering or dissipating heat, decontaminating especially groundwater, and/or generating power.
US08434543B2
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a turbine stator component includes a first endwall; a second endwall; a first stator airfoil coupled between the first and second endwalls; and a second stator airfoil adjacent to the first airfoil and coupled between the first and second endwalls. The first stator airfoil has first crystallographic primary and secondary orientations. The second stator airfoil has second crystallographic primary and secondary orientations, the first crystallographic primary and secondary orientations being different from the second crystallographic primary and secondary orientations.
US08434542B2
Methods, apparatus and computer programs for correcting a buff of tread from a crown of a tire, the steps of the method including measuring the distance between the tire crown surface and the belt at each of the plurality of locations; calculating a projected distance between the crown surface and the belt at each of the plurality of transverse locations across the crown using proposed buff radii, choosing a new position of the buffing radius origin from the one or more proposed origin positions on the centerline of the tire; and buffing the tread from the tire crown along the arc described by the buff radius having the buffing radius origin at the new position.
US08434541B2
A pressing module for the press-forming and curing of impregnated conductor bars for large electrical machines, such as for example hydro generators, can be distinguished by an improved closing system for applying the pressing pressure, and a pressing apparatus equipped therewith, the handling of which involves significantly reduced work. A pressing module (1) has a pressing vat (2) for applying a horizontal pressing force and a pressing yoke (3) for applying a vertical pressing force. The closing units (6) and (7) for applying the horizontal and vertical pressing forces have a housing (20), which receives, slidingly mounted therein, a pressing piston (21), which is in operative connection with an axially fixed, rotatable threaded bolt (27) in such a way that a turning movement of the threaded bolt (27) brings about an axial movement of the pressing piston (21). An axial bearing (3), supported on a spring assembly (35), provides a flexible mounting of the pressing piston (21). The threaded bolt (27) protrudes on the rear side of the housing (20) and is provided there with a contour (36) for receiving a tool, for example a pneumatic screwdriver.
US08434540B2
There is disclosed a configurable modular labeling machine and a method of making same. The machine can be selectively assembled in a number of different configurations. The machine has a frame or housing that can mount selectively positionable applicator and rewind modules. The applicator module includes a plate that can carry direction-changing and feed rolls and can mount a dispensing mechanism. The rewind module can include a plate that can mount direction-changing rolls and a rewind.
US08434533B2
A load-bearing structure for a bearing support intended to be mounted on a rim inside a tire fitted on a vehicle to support the tread of the tire in the event of a loss of inflation pressure is provided. The load-bearing structure includes a base, a crown, and an annular body connecting the base and the crown. The body includes a plurality of partitions distributed regularly circumferentially, extending axially substantially from one side to the other of the body and radially from the base to the crown with a mean orientation relative to the radial direction of between 10 and 50 degrees, in that two circumferentially adjacent partitions exhibit contrary orientations relative to the radial direction and in that two adjacent partitions define with the base and/or the crown cavities in the form of triangles or trapezoids.
US08434530B2
A filler valve unit (1) for feeding a preset amount of filling liquid (3) into a container (6) having an outlet (4) for feeding out filling liquid and an outlet (11) for injecting gaseous fluid. The filler valve unit (1) comprises at least one stop element (14) forming a stroke limiter acting on the container (6). According to the invention, the stop element (14) is mobile and moves between at least two operating positions consisting of a first operating position wherein the stop element holds the mouth (5) of a container (6) at a preset distance from the outlet (4) and a second operating position wherein the stop element (14) holds the mouth (5) of the container (6) at a distance from the outlet (4) which is less than the preset distance.
US08434523B2
An upgradeable A/C maintenance system and methodology is provided including one or more modular manifolds for mounting and fluidly connecting several components. Embodiments include first and second manifolds, each for removably mounting a plurality of components, and each comprising an internal passage for fluidly connecting at least two of the plurality of components to each other, and a port for fluidly connecting the internal passage to an external surface of the first manifold. The first and second manifolds are removably attachable to each other such that their respective ports fluidly communicate with each other. The first manifold provides a first functionality for the system when the second manifold is not attached to the first manifold, and the second manifold provides a second functionality different from the first functionality when the second manifold is attached to the first manifold.
US08434522B2
There is provided a fluid control apparatus which can reduce the number of members and can improve the assembling operation efficiency.A pressure indication device 4 to be replaced with a relatively-higher frequency is coupled to a base block 5 existing thereunder through male screw members 17 from above. An on-off valve 6 to be replaced with a relatively-lower frequency has, at its lower portion, a block-shaped main body 6a formed integrally therewith. The main body 6a of the on-off valve 6 is coupled to the base block 5 through male screw members 18 in the forward and rearward directions.
US08434516B2
A cartridge valve comprises an elongate housing defining an interior chamber. A port end of the chamber comprises an end port and a plurality of axially spaced side openings define first, second and third side ports. An axial opposite end comprises a sleeve end receivable in a solenoid, in use, and a spring chamber intermediate the port end and the sleeve end. A valve member is movable in the chamber at the port end between a neutral position and opposite first and second actuated positions for selectively controlling fluid flow between the end port and the side ports. A solenoid plunger is movable in the sleeve end of the interior chamber. First and second springs in the spring chamber effectively provide a bias force to the valve member for creating a non-symmetrical force pattern for push and pull movement of the valve member.
US08434515B2
The present invention relates to a sleeve valve (1), which sleeve valve (1) can be used offshore or onshore to control the fluid flow between a hydrocarbon reservoir and a tubing in a well in the hydrocarbon reservoir. The sleeve valve (1) comprises an outer and an inner sleeve (2, 3) which are coaxially and rotatably arranged relative to one another, wherein in each of the sleeves (2, 3) there is provided at least one through opening (4, 18). The sleeves (2, 3) are rotated relative to one another with the aid of a suitable device, so that they can selectively be brought into an open, closed or other positions therebetween so as thereby to be able to control the fluid flow through the sleeve valve (1).
US08434509B2
The present invention relates to a tank for the containment of a liquid, preferably a molten salt, said tank being associable to an aspiration pump of said liquid, wherein said tank comprises a bottom from which a lateral wall raises and wherein said aspiration pump requires a minimum level of liquid in said tank for operating, characterized in that it comprises at least an element occupying a volume and placeable inside said tank with at least a portion of said volume arranged at a height, with respect to said bottom, which is lower than said minimum level. The improved tanks of the present invention are suitable as storage tanks for liquids at elevated temperature such as molten salts to be used in heat storage systems in connection with solar power plants.
US08434504B2
A cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning generally upright surfaces, walls and windows of a building has a frame rotatably supporting one or more brushes adapted to engage the upright surface of a building. A davit supported on top of the building is connected to a cable pendently supporting the frame and brushes. A winch driven with a motor mounted on the frame operably connected to the cable operates to move the frame and brushes relative to the upright surface. A counterforce generator mounted on the frame establishes a force on the frame and brushes that maintains the brushes in effective continuous engagement with the upright surface during cleaning thereof.
US08434500B2
A hair band (1) comprises a strip-shaped carrier structure (2) and several hairs (4) which extend from the carrier structure (2) in a main direction (5) running perpendicular to the direction (3) of main extension of the carrier structure (2). The ends (8) of single hairs are stitched through the elastic foil (6) forming the outer layer of the carrier structure (2) and fixed to the carrier structure (2) by gluing them to the foil (6) only. The fixed ends of the hairs (4), at the back side of the foil (6), also run in the main direction (5) of the hairs (4).
US08434495B2
A smoking article composition and a method of making a smoking article composition and an additive, wherein the additive comprises particles anchored to the cut filler by a metal oxide support. The additive can be formed by combining particles and a metal oxide precursor solution with the smoking article composition. The smoking article composition can comprise tobacco cut filler, cigarette paper and/or cigarette filter material.
US08434458B2
A timing transmission mechanism (T2) in an engine is formed of a chain transmission system (C) that is formed from a drive sprocket (20) mounted on a crankshaft (4), a driven sprocket (25) mounted on a pump input shaft (24) of a high pressure fuel pump (P), and a chain (22) wound around the drive sprocket (20) and the driven sprocket (25); and a gear transmission system (G) that is formed from a drive gear (26) mounted on the pump input shaft (24) coaxially with the driven sprocket (25) and a driven gear (27) mounted on a camshaft (13b) and meshing with the drive gear (26). This enables a timing transmission mechanism to be provided that can increase the degree of freedom in layout of the high pressure fuel pump without causing any increase in the number of components, the weight, or the backlash.
US08434451B2
An engine brake unit, may include a rocker shaft having an oil passage to open or close an exhaust valve when an engine braking is in operation, an exhaust rocker arm rotatable about the rocker shaft inserted into the exhaust rocker arm, wherein the exhaust rocker arm includes a supply oil passage communicating with the oil passage and the outside, and a recess connected to the supply oil passage and having an open lower portion, an actuator disposed in the recess of the exhaust rocker arm, wherein the actuator includes a piston that selectively moves downwards through the open lower portion of the recess by oil supplied from the supply oil passage to press the exhaust rocker arm while oil pressure in the oil passage has a predetermined pressure or more, and an oil control valve connected to the oil passage of the rocker shaft and controlling the oil pressure.
US08434445B2
An engine including an automatic choke that includes a choke valve movable between a fully closed position and a fully open position, a temperature sensor coupled to the engine and operable to provide a temperature signal indicative of a temperature of the engine, and a motor connected to the choke valve and operable to move the choke valve in response to a motor control signal. A controller is electrically connected to the motor and to the temperature sensor. The controller includes an electronic circuit having a memory. A table includes engine specific choke position data stored in memory, wherein the controller determines a choke initial position based on the temperature of the engine and the choke position data, and wherein the motor moves the choke valve toward that position in response to an attempt to start the engine.
US08434430B2
A circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler comprising a reaction chamber. A bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) is contained within an enclosure within the lower portion of the reaction chamber and contains an in-bed heat exchanger (IBHX) that occupies part of the reaction chamber floor. At least one non-mechanical valve, which includes an opening between the CFB and BFB and independently controlled fluidizing means located both upstream and downstream of the opening, is used to control the heat transfer to the IBHX by controlling the solids discharge from the BFB to the CFB. The elevation of the bottom of the opening is at or above the elevation of the fluidizing means. A flow control barrier may be located downstream of the opening.
US08434429B2
Pet leash assemblies, pet collar assemblies, and methods of using the same. Pet leash assemblies include a tether and a gated clasp coupled to the tether. The gated clasp includes a body, a gate hinged to the body, and a biasing member that pivotally biases the gated clasp to a closed configuration. The gate may include a projection that extends away from the body. When the projection is urged toward a terminal region of the body, the gate is pivoted against a bias of the biasing member and the gated clasp is configured to an open configuration, in which a coupling ring of a collar may be inserted into and removed from a passage defined between the gate and the body. The clasp may include a sliding actuator with a gate-engagement surface positioned to engage and pivot the gate against its bias when the actuator is translated toward the gate.
US08434424B2
A method for milking animals in a milking station (9) including a milking machine (14) for milking said animals, and a first feeding device (21) for feeding said animals intermittently or continuously with feed, is disclosed, the method comprising the steps of allowing a milking animal to enter the milking station (9); feeding the milking animal in the milking station intermittently or continuously with feed by means of the first feeding device (21); and milking the milking animal in the milking station (9) by means of the milking machine (14). According to the present invention, the feeding of the milking animal is terminated at a non-final stage of the milking in order to secure that the milking animal has terminated to consume the feed when the milking is finished.
US08434422B2
The present invention generally relates to a coating apparatus and method for substantially simultaneously forming a plurality of coatings on a substrate and to a method of analyzing at least one characteristic or property of the coatings.
US08434417B2
In an embodiment, an agricultural implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, where the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The agricultural implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a depth of a valley opened in a soil region by the ground engaging tool and is configured to pack the soil region as the implement is towed through a field and a soil shaping assembly disposed between the ground engaging tool and the packer wheel, wherein the soil shaping assembly is configured to close the valley prior to packing by the packer wheel.
US08434414B2
Disclosed is a mobile robotic arm workcell. A robotic arm is mounted on a superstructure that carries all the equipment associated with the workcell's task. Thus, the workcell is self-contained needing only power. The workcell may be moved by activating air bearings that are pressurized by an air compressor that is also mounted on the superstructure. Power is received via power contacts that engage a power rail. Guidance is provided a guide system. The guide system may include guide rails engaged by guide carriages. Propulsion is provided by a drive system that may engage the guide system or the factory floor.
US08434402B2
An infusion container (30) for use with a brewer (20). The infusion container (30) includes a body portion defining at least a portion of a cavity therein. At least a portion of the body being liquid permeable. The infusion container liquid permeable portion facilitates brewing a beverage by allowing water to pass through the infusion container. The infusion container may be an individual structure which can be placed in and removed from the holder (30). Additional components or group of components for use with the beverage holder (30). The infusion container provides structures and methods facilitating convenient use of a brewer which allows the user to use the type of substance and quantity of substance of their choice and efficiently clean the substance holder (30).
US08434388B2
The present invention describes a novelty, mountable bottle opening device configured to display an interchangeable, theme-based display panel upon a vertical surface. The mountable bottle opening device includes a support base structure, an intermediate connecting element, an interchangeable decorative overlay panel, a bottle cap removal device, a bottle cap disposal receptacle, and at least one decorative cover. Many of the elements are interchangeable and provide for displaying unlimited and diverse themes. As the device is used to remove a bottle cap, the user perceives an audio message, visual message and/or mechanical event.
US08434387B2
The present invention relates to an industrial robot and aims to provide an industrial robot capable of ensuring a long distance from a rotation axis of an arm to a tool mounting portion and accurately positioning the tool mounting portion by a compact structure. In a swing arm 150, the rotation of a tool mounting rotation arm driving motor 311 is transmitted to a pivot shaft 313 via a tool mounting rotation arm driving transmission mechanism 300, the rotation of a tool mounting portion driving motor 411 is transmitted to an intermediate power transmission shaft 422 via a tool mounting portion driving first transmission mechanism 412a, and the rotation of the intermediate power transmission shaft 422 is transmitted to an output power transmission shaft 426 via a tool mounting portion driving second transmission mechanism 412b, thereby rotating a tool mounting portion 170 while being decelerated by a tool mounting portion driving reduction unit 413.
US08434385B2
A pedal device which can alleviate fatigue of a driver's ankle due to frequent acceleration by varying the amount of reaction force applied when the driver presses and releases a pedal by adjusting a pre-compression force against a return spring disposed at a hinged portion of a pedal arm and adjusting a friction force on a pivot end of the pedal arm. The pedal device includes a housing fixed to a car body, an arm hinged to the housing, an elastic member disposed at the hinged portion between the housing and the pedal arm, a pedal effort adjusting unit disposed at the pedal arm and pressing an end of the elastic member, and a hysteresis adjusting unit movably disposed at the housing to press a pivot end of the pedal arm and adjusting the amount of change in stroke-to-pedal effort when the pedal arm operates.
US08434378B2
In one embodiment, a contiguous, elastic cover, for a dissolution-testing vessel, has a slit from a central opening to its outer edge. The cover may be placed around a stirring shaft by deforming the elastic cover to temporarily enlarge the slit. After returning to its original shape, the cover is placed over the vessel with the shaft free to rotate unimpeded within the central opening. The cover has a first raised annular disk on one side and a second raised annular disk on the other side, where the disks have different outer diameters to enable the cover to be used with differently sized vessels. The cover has a first opening having a first diameter and a second opening having a different, second diameter such that a conventional probe fits either at one depth within the first opening or at a different, second depth within the second opening.
US08434377B2
The present invention is directed to a method for measuring sandability of a coating or an article. This invention is particularly directed to a method for measuring sandability of a coating or an article quantitatively by measuring weight loss of said coating or article after being sanded. This invention is also directed to a system for measuring sandability of a coating or an article using said method.
US08434365B2
An aerodynamically shaped profile member for aircraft and wind power stations includes, for example, phased-array ultrasonic generator arrangement arranged therein. During operation of the profile member, the ultrasonic generator emits ultrasonic waves in a targeted manner in multiple directions to determine a profile of the thickness of an ice layer on the surface of the aerodynamic profile. The structure may be, for example, a composite fiber material arranged around a foam core, with the ultrasonic generator arrangement being laminated into the composite fiber material. For measurement of the ice thickness, ultrasonic waves are transmitted in a targeted manner to different positions of the surface of the aerodynamic profile, and the ultrasonic waves reflected on the interfaces of the ice layer are detected. At least one region of the surface is scanned by means of the targeted ultrasonic waves, to determine an ice thickness profile.
US08434353B2
A system for monitoring brake pad wear of a brake, including an apparatus for monitoring brake pad wear of a first type (total wear monitoring) and an apparatus for monitoring brake pad wear of a second type (final-position wear monitoring). The apparatus of the first type and the apparatus of the second type are connected by way of a connection element. The connection element is created for expanding the functionality of a device for brake pad wear monitoring of a brake, and is designed to establish a connection expanding the functionality of the device between an apparatus extending the functionality and a device whose functionality is to be expanded.
US08434352B2
A test stand arrangement includes at least one electric motor (4) connected to a test specimen for driving and/or loading the test specimen, and a control arrangement for the or each electric motor. In order to be able to create the connection of the drive train and vehicle simulation with the real, vehicle-specific combustion and dynamic behavior of the engine, at least one model for a multi-mass flywheel is implemented in the control arrangement, from which model at least a part of the control requirement for the or each electric motor is calculated and which model contains at least the two masses of the primary and secondary side of the multi-mass flywheel and a substitute model for the or each bow spring, and an algorithm is implemented in the control arrangement that analyzes the model for a multi-mass flywheel by means of an integrated time step method.
US08434351B2
A sensing instrument using a piezoelectric resonator changes natural frequency when coming into contact with a liquid to adsorb a substance to be sensed in the liquid. The sensing instrument includes an oscillator circuit supplying a piezoelectric resonator with oscillation driving power for oscillating the piezoelectric resonator so as to set a driving current to 0.3 mA or less. A measuring unit measures a concentration of the substance to be sensed based on an oscillation output of the oscillator circuit. Self-heating of the piezoelectric resonator is suppressed. Consequently, a change of the oscillation frequency of the piezoelectric oscillator is suppressed, which as a result enables accurate detection of a variation of the frequency due to the adsorption of the substance to be sensed.
US08434348B2
A target cylinder and a method for testing a superhard component thereon. The target cylinder includes a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending from the first end to the second end. At least one of the second end and the sidewall is an exposed portion that makes contact with the superhard component to determine at least one property of the superhard component. The exposed portion comprises at least one synthetic material having at least one of a compressive strength raging from about 12 kpsi to about 30 kpsi, an abrasiveness ranging from about 1 Cerchars to about 6 Cerchars, and an iron content ranging from about 5 percent to about 10 percent. Optionally, the exposed portion further comprises a second material interveningly positioned between or within the synthetic material in a predetermined and repeatable pattern.
US08434340B2
An improved stamped metal part and method for making the same.
US08434339B2
The present invention provides a pressing device for bending, in which a pipe is held between a bending die having a shape corresponding to a shape of bending and a clamping die revolvable around the bending die, and, when the pipe is bent by revolving the clamping die around the bending die, an axial compression force is applied to the pipe. The pressing device for bending includes a movable table arranged movable in an axial direction of the pipe, a first cylinder provided to the movable table and able to press a rear end of the pipe, and a second cylinder provided to the movable table and able to press a fixed side in a direction opposite to a direction in which the first cylinder presses the pipe.
US08434336B2
A method for wireless communications is disclosed that includes receiving a plurality of requests to transmit data from a plurality of apparatuses; determining resource allocation for a set of apparatuses in the plurality of apparatuses, wherein the determination is based on the plurality of requests; and transmitting a message comprising the resource allocation to the set of apparatuses to permit data transmission. Another method for wireless communications is disclosed that includes contending for access to a medium based on a request, by an apparatus, with a plurality of other apparatuses; receiving a message, the message comprising a resource allocation based on requests from the apparatus and the other apparatuses, wherein the resource allocation permits data transmission from the apparatus and some of the other apparatuses; and transmitting data by the apparatus based on the message. Apparatuses for performing the methods are also disclosed.
US08434333B2
A knit fabric, protective sleeve and glove constructed therefrom has three knit layers knit constructed and knit to one another in a single knitting operation to provide the fabric as a single piece of knit material. The fabric includes an outer layer, an inner layer and an intermediate layer sandwiched between the outer and inner layers. The outer layer is knit with a first yarn, the inner layer is knit with a second yarn and the intermediate layer is knit with a third yarn in looped fashion about at least some of the first and second yarns to provide an integrally knit structure having three layers knit stitched together in a single knitting process.
US08434328B2
An antimony-free glass suitable for use in a frit for producing a hermetically sealed glass package is described. The hermetically sealed glass package, such as an OLED display device, is manufactured by providing a first glass substrate plate and a second glass substrate plate and depositing the antimony-free frit onto the first substrate plate. OLEDs may be deposited on the second glass substrate plate. An irradiation source (e.g., laser, infrared light) is then used to heat the frit which melts and forms a hermetic seal that connects the first glass substrate plate to the second glass substrate plate and also protects the OLEDs. The antimony-free glass has excellent aqueous durability, good flow, low glass transition temperature and low coefficient of thermal expansion.
US08434326B2
The present invention relates to a method of liquefying a hydrocarbon stream such as a natural gas stream, the method at least comprising the steps of: supplying a partly condensed feed stream (10) having a pressure above 60 bar to a first separator (2) wherein it is separated into a gaseous stream (20) and a liquid stream (30); expanding the liquid stream (30) and the gaseous stream (20) and subsequently feeding them into the distillation column (3); removing from the distillation column (3) a gaseous overhead stream (80), partially condensing it, feeding it (90) into a second separator (8) thereby obtaining a liquid stream (100) and a gaseous stream (110), feeding the liquid stream (100) into the distillation column (3) and liquefying the gaseous stream (110) thereby obtaining a liquefied stream (200); wherein the gaseous overhead stream (80) is partially condensed by heat exchanging against the expanded gaseous stream (60) before it (70) is fed into the distillation column (3); and wherein the gaseous stream (110) is removed from the second separator but before it (160) is liquefied, is heat exchanged against the feed stream (10a), thereby partially condensing the feed stream (10a).
US08434310B2
A trim valve includes a valve housing having an inlet section and an outlet section. A valve shaft is mounted to the valve housing to be stationary with respect thereto. The valve shaft includes an internal flow passage in fluid communication with the outlet section of the valve housing. A valve rotor is disposed inboard of the valve housing and outboard of the valve shaft for modulating flow through the valve housing. The valve rotor is mounted for rotational movement within the valve housing between a fully open position in which a flow path is defined between the inlet and outlet sections of the valve housing, and a reduced flow position in which the valve rotor at least partially blocks the flow path. An actuator is operatively connected to the valve housing to actuate the valve rotor between the fully open and reduced flow positions.
US08434309B2
An example core nacelle for a gas turbine engine includes a core cowl positioned adjacent an inner duct boundary of a fan bypass passage having an associated discharge airflow cross-sectional area. The core cowl includes at least one translating section and at least one flap section. The translating section of the core cowl is selectively moveable to vary the discharge airflow cross-sectional area.
US08434306B2
An engine comprises an intake manifold, first and second cylinder banks, a turbocharger, a flow passage, and first and second cylinder banks. The first and second cylinder banks are each in fluid communication with a respective output of the intake manifold. The turbocharger is associated with the second cylinder bank and includes a compressor input port and a compressor output port. The flow passage is in fluid communication with each of the compressor output port and an input of the intake manifold.
US08434298B2
A method (10) for injecting ammonia (NH3) into exhaust gas upstream of a catalyst of an aftertreatment system includes the steps of determining whether a regeneration event is imminent (14) on the basis of predetermined parameters, and determining whether dosing parameters are met (22). The method (10) further includes the steps of calculating an amount of NH3 to fill the catalyst (18) and adjusting a quantity of NH3 dosed (22) before the regeneration event occurs.
US08434296B2
Provided is an exhaust emission control device for an internal combustion engine capable of preventing NOx purification performance from degrading according to the operating condition. The exhaust emission control device comprises a NOx purification catalyst, a catalytic converter for continuously reducing the NOx in the exhaust emissions, a fuel reformer for reforming fuel to manufacture a reformed gas and supplying the reformed gas as the reducing gas from the upstream side of the NOx purification catalyst and the catalytic converter of the exhaust pipe, an operating condition detecting means for detecting the operating condition of an engine, and an enriching means for enriching the exhaust air-fuel ratio. The enriching means enriches the exhaust air-fuel ratio by supplying the reducing gas into the exhaust pipe by using the fuel reformer when the operating condition detected by the operating condition detecting means is a high-load operating condition.
US08434293B2
A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuated aerostructure operable to dynamically change shape according to flight conditions is disclosed. Deformable structures are actuated by SMA actuators that are coupled to face sheets of the deformable structures. Actuating the SMA actuators produces complex shape changes of the deformable structures by activating shape changes of the SMA actuators. The SMA actuators are actuated via an active or passive temperature change based on operating conditions. The SMA actuated aerostructure can be used for morphable nozzles such as a variable area fan nozzle and/or a variable geometry chevron of a jet engine to reduce engine noise during takeoff without degrading fuel burn during cruise.
US08434292B2
A ceramic-encased hot surface igniter system for jet engines is presented. The advanced ceramic-encased hot surface igniter system comprises at least one electrical resistance heated element encased in a durable, thermal and mechanical shock resistant, high temperature advanced ceramic compound such as silicon nitride. The one or more advanced ceramic-encased hot surface igniter elements are mounted proximally upstream or within a combustion chamber of a jet engine enclosure or within the afterburner section of a jet propulsion engine's exhaust. The surface temperature of each ignition element's encasement being of sufficient temperature to cause the ignition of a gaseous, atomized, or liquid fuel.
US08434288B2
A package includes a box and a tray. The box includes a rear panel, sidewalls extending around the rear panel, and a front panel and defines a storage compartment between the rear panel and the sidewalls. An opening to the storage compartment is defined opposite the rear panel, the front panel extends over a portion of the opening to the storage compartment, and the front panel includes an aperture. The tray defines an auxiliary chamber and a substantially planar, frame portion extending around the auxiliary chamber. The tray is positioned adjacent the front panel such that the frame portion is maintained between the front panel and the storage compartment and the auxiliary chamber forwardly extends though the aperture of the front panel beyond a surface of the front panel defined opposite the frame portion. Other products, assemblies, and associated methods are also disclosed.
US08434286B2
The medicament dispensing machine enables to use vials having various sizes and shapes without changing a part in the machine or without performing a special operation. The medicament dispensing machine contains a discharging unit that receives a vial filled with a medicament from a medicament filling means and discharges out of a vial discharging window. The discharging unit contains a vial gripping means having a pair of gripping arms that grip a vial, a body of gripping means having the vial gripping means, a moving means that moves the vial gripping means from the medicament filling means to the vial discharging window, and an orientation changing mechanism that changes the orientation of the body of gripping means. With a coordination of the movement of the body of gripping means toward the vial discharging window, the orientation changing mechanism makes the gripping arms orient to the vial discharging window.
US08434276B2
The invention describes extruded member systems to which a photovoltaic device is secured to an architectural surface.
US08434275B2
A double floor structure capable of being adapted to the conditions of construction and the needs of users at low cost. A double floor structure (K) provided with support legs (1) which are provided on a lower floor and rows of beams which form an upper floor. The support legs (1) are each provided with an upper member (14) which supports a beam from the lower side, an intermediate member (13) which supports the upper member (14) from the lower side, and a lower member (12) which supports the intermediate member (13) from the lower side. The upper member (14), the intermediate member (13), and the lower member (12) consist of metallic, extruded shape material and are disposed in such a manner that the direction of the extrusion is aligned with the top-bottom direction.
US08434274B2
A nest exclusion device is releasably attachable to a tower such as a cell tower, such that when installed it deters Osprey and other raptors from nesting on the tower structure, but is easily disengaged to permit worker access to the tower antenna mount structure, and can be easily reassembled. The device includes a center pole that extends upwardly away from the tower. A cap is attached to a top of the center pole, and a plurality of brackets are spaced about a periphery of the antenna mount structure with a maximum spacing between adjacent brackets of 18 inches. A plurality of cable assemblies extend from the cap to the brackets to define a tapering structure, converting the snag-shaped tower to a more conical shape.
US08434271B2
A roof flashing that can be installed around a pipe, instead of over the pipe, is provided. The roof flashing can include a collar, a base, a foot, and a longitudinal opening. The collar can have a conical shape. The base can have a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edge of the base coupled to a bottom edge of the collar, the bottom edge of the base having a diameter larger than a diameter of the top edge of the base. The foot can be coupled to the bottom edge of the base and extend outwardly from the bottom edge of the base. The longitudinal opening can extend from an apex of the collar to an edge of the foot, and a width of the longitudinal opening can increase when first and second edges of the opening are pulled away from each other.
US08434263B2
A plant packaging and covering system including a floral sleeve having a decorative pattern thereon. The sleeve may have a lower portion sized to cover a pot and an upper portion which can surround a plant disposed in the pot and which can be detached after the protective function of the upper portion is complete or which can be used to support the sleeve from a support device prior to use. The decorative pattern preferably has an arcuate upper boundary in the flattened condition which when opened gives the sleeve the appearance of having an upper edge which is parallel to the upper rim of the pot disposed within the sleeve.
US08434259B2
A seed sampler system generally includes an automated sampling station configured to orient a seed and remove a tissue sample from the oriented seed. The seed sampler system may include a support configured to orient a seed received by the support, and an automated sampling mechanism configured to remove a tissue sample from the oriented seed.
US08434254B1
A safety magazine allows training rounds to be fired while preventing the firing of live rounds. The magazine has front and rear walls, whereby the distance between the front wall and the rear wall is less than the length of a standard 5.56×45 mm NATO cartridge. The magazine has an alignment rib projecting from the rear wall that is adapted for insertion into an alignment groove formed in a rear end wall of a standard M16 style magazine well. The magazine has a spacer projecting laterally from the sides of said alignment rib and that is located between the rear wall of the magazine and the rear face of the alignment rib. The spacer is adapted to engage the rear end wall of the standard M16 style magazine well for spacing the rear wall of the safety magazine away from the rear end wall of the magazine well.
US08434246B2
Various embodiments of an evolutionary interchangeable sandal are disclosed. Certain example embodiments described herein relate to various sandal configurations that utilize at least two main elements, including a platform sole base and a strap assembly. These elements may be joined by special fasteners that provide quick-connect or disconnect while securely maintaining sandal integrity and wearability. The platform sole base may be customized in various thicknesses and sandal sizes. The strap assembly may be customized in various shapes, colors, styles, and/or manufacturing materials. In the case of the sole tread/height enhancement addition, the soles tread and height may be interchanged as needed.
US08434239B2
An apparatus is disclosed for drying grain in a storage bin as well as the method of drying the grain. The apparatus includes an air blower positioned outwardly of the storage bin which has an air inlet end and an air discharge end. The air discharge end of the air blower is in communication with the interior of the storage bin. A heat exchanger is positioned in a spaced relationship with respect to the air blower and has an air passageway with an inlet end and an outlet end. The outlet end of the heat exchanger is spaced from the inlet end of the air blower. An infrared heater is spaced from the inlet end of the heat exchanger so that infrared rays from the infrared heater will be directed into the air passageway of the heat exchanger so that the heat exchanger will heat the air being drawn through the heat exchanger by the air blower with the air blower sucking heated air from the air passageway and blowing the same into the storage bin to dry the grain therein. The heat exchanger includes an outer shroud which is trapezoidal in plan view. The heat exchanger includes heat exchanger assemblies which are generally trapezoidal in shape.
US08434234B2
Electric shears include a housing, a motor within the housing, a transmission including a reduction gearbox and a bevel gear pair, a fixed blade, a movable blade rotatably connected to the fixed blade and coupled with the motor via the transmission. The movable blade swings back and forth about its connection with the fixed blade. The fixed blade is supported on the reduction gearbox and fixed to the housing together with the reduction gearbox. Electric shears are thus provided with a small shape, a simple and compact interior structure, and better portability.
US08434233B2
An inner cutter, which is used for a rotary shaver, including a plurality of blade supports formed so as to be raised from an inner cutter main body and provided with cutter blades formed, respectively, at the tip ends of the raised blade supports, with positions where the blade supports are raised being located more forward in the direction of rotation of the inner cutter than the leading edge positions of the cutter blades.
US08434228B2
A heat exchanger including a metal base formed of a plurality of interfitted elements and fins formed in part from recompressed expanded graphite, wherein the fins are securely connected to the base by placing a deformable edge portion of each fin between each pair of interfitting elements and thereafter compressing the interfitting elements toward one another to deformably retain the edge portions of each fin there between.
US08434224B2
A method to manufacture an integrally bladed rotor, including: cutting a block of material by an abrasive waterjet, undertaken so as to reveal blade preforms extending radially from a disk, while retaining the material forming a linking mechanism between at least two preforms of directly consecutive blades, wherein the linking mechanism is spaced radially from the disk; followed by removal of the linking mechanism.
US08434219B2
A crimping tool for crimping an electrical contact toward engagement with an electrical conductor, including a housing, a pair of crimping dies, a die support arrangement supporting a first one of the crimping dies in a stationary position on said housing, and a displacing mechanism for displacing the other crimping die between open and closed positions relative to the stationary crimping die. The displacing mechanism includes a rotary drive shaft, a crimping arm having a first end portion connected with the movable crimping die member, and a rotary-to-reciprocatory motion converting mechanism adjacent the other end of the crimping arm for transforming the rotary motion of the drive shaft to a reciprocatory motion of the crimping arm, thereby to displace the movable crimping die between the open and closed positions.
US08434211B2
A method for manufacturing a measuring apparatus for capacitive determining and/or monitoring of at least the fill level of a medium. The measuring apparatus has a probe unit and an electronics unit. During a measurement, the electronics unit supplies the probe unit with an exciter signal and receives from the probe unit a received signal, from which the electronics unit ascertains a capacitance value. The probe unit is coated with an insulation layer, the coated probe unit is connected with the electronics unit and inserted into a container containing a calibration medium, the coated probe unit is covered completely by the calibration medium and an associated received signal is gained, and, with the associated received signal, at least one adjustable component of the electronics unit is set.
US08434204B2
A trimming apparatus and method that can create plural trim shapes using one press die. The trimming apparatus includes a conveying device for conveying a pallet having a workpiece disposed thereon, a trimming device having a press die for trimming the workpiece in a trimming process area, a positioning device for determining the relative position of the press die with respect to the pallet and a position switching device provided in the positioning device to change operable to change the position of the press die with respect to the pallet in the trimming process area.
US08434199B1
A knob safety assembly is operative to selectively restrict depression of a cooking element control knob. The safety assembly includes a blocking plate disposed inside of a bezel assembly. The bezel assembly includes an outer bezel defining one or more angled camming surfaces, and an inner bezel. Rotation of the inner bezel with respect to the outer bezel about a rotational axis slides an ear of the blocking plate along the camming surface to effect movement of the blocking plate along the rotational axis between a raised position, in which the blocking plate restricts depression of a cooking element control knob, to a recessed position, in which the blocking plate facilitates depression of the control knob. The inner bezel is releasably locked from rotating with respect to the outer bezel, and engages the blocking plate to constrain the blocking plate against movement along the rotational axis when locked.
US08434190B2
A toothbrush having a handle portion and a neck portion connecting the handle portion with a head. The head has a brushing side and a rear side. The brushing side includes a plurality of bristle tufts for cleaning the teeth. The tufts are attachable in the head through tufting apertures, with each tufting aperture being assigned a blind-end hole having sidewalls and a bottom. The cross-sectional area of the head between a first bottom and the rear side differing from a cross-sectional area of the head between a second bottom and the rear side. The first bottom and the second bottom are arranged in the head in such a way that the minimum distance between the first bottom and the rear side as well as the minimum distance between the second bottom and the rear side are each in the range of between about 0.5 and about 2.5 mm.
US08434180B2
A washing machine and a control method thereof are disclosed. The washing machine has a plurality of washing tubs to clean laundry in different ways classified according to capacity and types of clothing. Different washing tubs simultaneously stop operations or are stopped at different times spaced apart from each other by a predetermined time, although washing tubs have different washing conditions (e.g., different input times of laundry, different amounts of laundry, different washing courses, etc.) when laundry is cleaned using the washing tubs.
US08434177B2
A configurable, adjustable inflatable device including one or more inflatable bladders and a shape-defining member that combines with the inflatable bladders such that an overall shape of the configurable inflatable device is at least partially controlled by the shape-defining member.
US08434175B1
Protective covers for pillows and mattress are wholly or partly made of layered polyolefin fabrics. The layered polyolefin fabrics used for the protective covers are sheets of material bonded together with an adhesive or other bonding methods. One of the layers of the laminated fabric is a nonwoven polyolefin fabric and another layer is a polyolefin film. The protective covers stop migration of dust mites and are also reusable. The covers are cleaned and sanitized using a washer and a dryer.
US08434173B1
A device for assisting in the cleaning of reusable cloth diapers comprises a molded plastic frame which rests on an interior perimeter of a toilet bowl. The frame comprises a universal design such that it fits on both round and oval bowls. A plurality of adjustable spring clips holds and supports the soiled diaper in a taut and stretched configuration. With the device and diaper in place, the diaper may be rinsed off. When finished, the toilet is flushed and the device is removed, folded, and stored in a supplied storage case.
US08434164B2
A message-conveying athletic glove with enhanced gripping is provided. The glove comprises a palm-side portion and a back portion connected to form four finger sheaths, a thumb sheath, and an opening capable of receiving a human hand. A first image portion of a complete image is located on one or more of the palm-side portion or the back portion of the glove. When the glove is worn by the user and interlocks with a second glove having a second image portion of the complete image displayed, the complete image is displayed by the interlocked gloves, conveying a message. The palm-side portion of the glove is made of a material to enhance gripping.
US08438661B2
The invention relates to a scanning probe microscope comprising: a specimen holder holding a specimen; and a probe for scanning the relief of the upper surface of the specimen, which probe is movable in a vertical direction and two orthogonal horizontal directions, wherein the upper surface of the specimen is tilted relative to at least one of the two orthogonal horizontal directions.
US08438656B2
A method for preventing unauthorized recording of media content on a Macintosh operating system. The present method registers a compliance mechanism on a client system having the Macintosh operating system operating thereon. The compliance mechanism comprises a framework for validating the compliance mechanism on the client system, and a multimedia component opened by the framework. The present method uses the multimedia component for decrypting the media content on the client system. The present method also prevents decryption of the media content on the client system having the Macintosh operating system operating thereon if a portion of the compliance mechanism is invalidated.
US08438653B2
A strategy is described for controlling access to a resource which is shared between a trusted environment and an untrusted environment. The resource can represent a clipboard module. The trusted environment can include trusted client functionality, while the untrusted environment can include potentially untrusted network-accessible entities (e.g., websites) which seek to access the clipboard module. The strategy provides a security presentation which notifies a user when a network-accessible entity is attempting to access the clipboard module, identifying the entity which is making the attempt, together with the nature of the information being read or added to the clipboard module. The security presentation invites the user to approve or deny the particular attempt (or all such attempts from the network-accessible entity), and/or clear the clipboard module. The security presentation does not block the user's interaction with other parts of a user interface presentation.
US08438651B2
A data reproducing method, data recording/reproducing apparatus and data transmitting method are disclosed. The present invention includes the steps of providing information for identifying a player to a server, downloading data based on the information from the server and reproducing the data. And, the present invention includes the steps of receiving information for identifying a player from the player, configuring data using the information, and transmitting the data to the player. Accordingly, content can be protected against illegal copy, illegal distribution and the like by employing player information. And, the present invention can trace a player having compromised content.
US08438649B2
Methods and apparatus are provided for protecting against cross-site request forgeries (CSRFs) by requiring certain requests submitted to a computer server to include specific tokens. The requests involve modification of or access to protected data, and the tokens are inserted by a state machine into content from which the requests are initiated. For example, content that includes a form, a hyperlink, a scripted request or other control for initiating a follow-on request to the server is modified to include tokens. The state machine may scan the content in real time (e.g., as it is served) to identify these controls and to insert the tokens. Using a state machine allows the content to be streamed even as it is scanned, does not require construction of a representation of the content (e.g., a DOM tree), and avoids modifying any of the content other than to insert one or more tokens.
US08438647B2
An exemplary software product to recover encrypted data from a target secure storage device can comprise software operational when executed by a processor to receive a recovery request to recovery the encrypted data, send a transfer command to the target secure storage device, receive an authorization request from the target secure storage device in response to the transfer command, respond to the authorization request, and receive the encrypted data from the target secure storage device.
US08438644B2
A security system is provided. The system comprises a computer system, a memory accessible to the computer system, a data store, and an application. The data store comprises a threat catalog, wherein the threat catalog comprises a plurality of threat vectors, each threat vector comprising a plurality of fields, wherein each field is constrained to carry a value selected from a predefined list of enumerated values. The application is stored in the memory and, when executed by the computer system receives a threat report, wherein the threat report comprises an identification of at least one threat vector, determines a correlation between the at least one threat vector received in the threat report with the threat vectors comprising the threat catalog, and, based on the correlation, sends a notification to a stakeholder in an organization under the protection of the security system.
US08438636B2
System of evaluating security of script content. A processor executes computer-executable instructions for defining a policy for the script content in a web page. The script content provides interactions between a user and other content within the web page. The defined policy indicates an execution boundary of the script content. The processor further evaluates the script content against the execution boundary in the defined policy. At run time, the processor transforms at least a portion of the web page in response to the evaluating. An interface transmits the web page with the transformed portion of the script content to be rendered in an application on a host device.
US08438622B2
In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving a request from a first party for access to controlled data, and providing access to the controlled data to a second party. The first party requests access to the controlled data and a token is provided to the first party. The token includes data associated with authorized access to the controlled data. A request for access to the controlled data including the token is later received from the second party, and access to the controlled data is provided to the second party.
US08438613B2
Establishing one or more facets of a policy includes facilitating a communication session for an access terminal at a visited network. The access terminal is associated with a home network having a home policy server. The policy is received at a visited policy server of the visited network. The policy comprises the facets. If the facets are unacceptable, the facets are negotiated until a stopping point is reached. The negotiation includes adjusting by the visited policy server at least one facet of the one or more facets, and notifying the home policy server of the adjustment. The facets are established in accordance with the negotiation.
US08438612B2
Queries regarding access permissions of users and rights to directories in a complex enterprise are executed in near real-time, using lookups to tables that form a condensed database maintained for each file server. User information is condensed by arranging users in user groups having common data access rights. Directory permissions storage is condensed by showing only distinctive permissions to a directory in a table entry, and referencing inherited permissions of parent directories. The tables indicate recursive and ancestral relationships among the user groups and directories. They are developed and updated in advance of any queries. A consolidated view of the query results is presented on a single display screen. Using the tables results can be obtained without exhaustive searches of large file system tables.
US08438590B2
A system and method of measuring audience reaction to media content includes obtaining images or other information of each individual of the audience as the individual views the content and analyzing the images or other information with software to generate emotional response source data for each individual. The emotional response source data identifies the emotion or emotions or change of emotions of the individual as interpreted by the software. The emotional response source data of the individuals is aggregated to identify a set of primary emotions of the audience, and thereafter, the emotional response source data is re-evaluated in view of the primary emotions to refine and more accurately classify the emotional responses of each individual of the audience.
US08438588B2
A turntable for a storage disk drive apparatus includes a plate member made of a ferromagnetic material and a central resin member arranged at the center of the plate member and formed into a single member by injection-molding a resin. The plate member includes a peripheral plate portion and a central plate portion positioned higher than the peripheral plate portion. The central plate portion includes a plate center hole defined at the center of the plate member. The central resin member includes a resinous cylinder portion extending through the plate center hole and defining a resin central through-hole, a disk guide portion arranged to guide a disk center hole, and a resinous connector portion arranged above the central plate portion to interconnect the resinous cylinder portion and the disk guide portion.
US08438586B2
A drive device for an optical disc apparatus, wherein the tooth comprises a tooth body fixed to an optical pickup, two support pieces projecting from the tooth body toward a lead screw, two resin spring pieces provided with a base part on the projecting end of each of the support pieces and extending in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the lead screw, a plate part having a base part on the extending ends of the resin spring pieces and formed in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the lead screw, meshing cogs formed on the plate part on the side near the lead screw, and a linking part formed across the space between the resin spring pieces.
US08438581B2
A system may receive a request for a web page from a client and dynamically generate a document in response to the request. The document may include a reference to a script configured to display a context menu in the web page. The document may further include an encoded value that describes actions that are available for the context menu. The encoded value may be passed to the script as an input parameter when the user requests the context menu. The system may further transmit the document to the client.
US08438580B2
Methods, devices and an associated application programming interface are described that permits a user to register event tap routines (“ETRs”) with an application such as, for example, a window server application. Event tap routines permit events such as human interface device events to be processed at multiple points and in a manner not provided during normal window server operations. Event tap routines may effect passive or active event responses. Passive ETRs may merely record the occurrence of an event or the time between successive events without modifying or altering the event's processing sequence within a window server. Active ETRs, on the other hand, effect some programmatic response to an event. For example, active ETRs may modify the state of an event, delete the event, create one or more additional events or cause the event to be processed “out of sequence” by the window server application.
US08438573B2
A clusterware manager on a cluster of nodes interprets a resource profile. The resource profile defines resource profile attributes. The attributes include at least one attribute that defines a cluster dependency based on resource type. The attribute does not identify any particular resource of that resource type. Dependencies between resources are managed based on the attribute that specifies the cluster dependency.
US08438572B2
A method of scheduling execution of a plurality of tasks by a processor, the processor having a processor memory, the processor being arranged to load into the processor memory, during execution of a current task, data for a task that is scheduled for execution after the processor has completed the current task, the method comprising the steps of scheduling a next task for execution by the processor after the processor has completed a current task, and determining whether there is a high priority task to be executed by the processor, if there is a high priority task to be executed by the processor: determining whether the processor has begun loading the data for the next task into the processor memory, and if the processor has not begun loading the data for the next task into the processor memory, scheduling the high priority task, instead of the next task, for execution by the processor after the processor has completed the current task.
US08438570B2
An automated resource allocation technique for scheduling a batch computer job in a multi-computer system environment. According to example embodiments, resource allocation processing may be performed when receiving a batch computer job that needs to be run by a software application executable on more than one computing system in the multi-computer system environment. The job may be submitted for pre-processing analysis by the software application. A pre-processing analysis result comprising job evaluation information may be received from the software application and the result may be evaluated to select a computing system in the multi-computer system environment that is capable of executing the application to run the job. The job may be submitted to the selected computing system to have the software application run the job to completion.
US08438562B2
Techniques are provided for deploying applications hosted by an application service provider. An application in a first environment is automatically deployed to a second environment in response to receiving a request over a network from the party for whom the second environment is being hosted. The first environment may be an environment where applications are developed by the party over the network. Deployment of the application may entail provisioning of an environment for the application.
US08438553B2
Paralleling processing system and method. When clusters are formed based on strongly connected components, a single cluster (fat cluster) having at least a predetermined number of blocks, or an expected processing time exceeding a predetermined threshold, is formed. The fat cluster is subjected to an unrolling process to make multiple copies of the processing of the fat cluster and to assign the copies to individual processors. Processing of the fat cluster is executed by the multiple processor devices in a pipelined manner. If a fat cluster to be iteratively executed cannot be executed in the pipelined manner because a processing result of an nth iteration of the fat cluster depends on a processing result of a preceding iteration of the fat cluster an input value needed for execution of the fat cluster is generated based on a certain prediction, and the fat cluster is speculatively executed.
US08438550B2
System and method for implicit downcasting at compile time in a data flow program. A first data flow function in an object-oriented dataflow program is identified, where the first function includes an input of a parent data type and an output of the parent data type. The first function is analyzed to determine if the output preserves the run-time data type of the input. A second dataflow function in the object-oriented data flow program is identified, where the second function includes a program element that calls the first function, passing an input parameter of a child data type of the parent data type as input. If the analysis determines that an output parameter returned by the output of the first function will always be of the child data type, the program element is automatically configured at compile time to always downcast the output parameter from the parent data type to the child data type at run-time.
US08438545B1
A test validation system, method and computer program product are provided. In use, at least one test-independent validation entity is identified. In addition, results of a test of computer code are validated, utilizing the at least one test-independent validation entity.
US08438544B2
A plurality of development projects is managed by a network portal that receives a first request to be accessed using a single user account. The network portal allows a user, using the single user account, to access any corresponding members of a set of elements and any corresponding development projects. A second request is received to access a first element within the set of elements via the network portal and using a namespace.
US08438540B2
An apparatus and a method for managing class properties in a computer program is described. Classes are declared. Each class is associated with a corresponding property with at least one class inheriting one or more property corresponding to one or more other classes. A table generator forms a table of property offsets associated with each class. The table is copied forward with each inheritance declaration. A reference to a property of a class is resolved by retrieving the table associated with a current instance's class and resolving from the table associated with the class corresponding to an object from which the property is referenced.
US08438531B2
Graphical viewing of shapes and descriptive information in displayed graphical images. In one aspect, shape information is displayed in a graphical interface using a computer system and includes causing a display of an image on a display device with or more shapes, and causing a display of multiple labels on the display device. Each of the labels is associated with a different one of the displayed shapes, and the labels are derived from stored connectivity information for the one or more shapes describing the connections of the shapes.
US08438520B2
Methods, systems, computer programs, etc., determine the required number of decoupling capacitors, and approximate locations for the decoupling capacitors, for a region of an integrated circuit. Switching elements of the region are entered into a simulation program running on a computerized device. Also, a power distribution model of the region is entered into the simulation program, and a power-supply voltage compression target is entered into the simulation program. These methods, systems, etc., generate an upper number of decoupling capacitors required to satisfy the compression target when all the switching elements concurrently switch. For each switching element, the methods, systems, etc., generate a specific number of decoupling capacitors required to satisfy the compression when only the element switches, calculate a fraction of the specific number to the upper number, assign the fraction of the total number of decoupling capacitors to each switching circuit element, and place the fraction of the total number of decoupling capacitors in electrical proximity to the element.
US08438519B2
A method of method of manufacturing an integrated circuit. The method comprises performing an electromigration reliability rule-check for at least one of via node of an integrated circuit, including: calculating a net effective current density of the via node. Calculating the net effective current density including determining a sum of effective current densities for individual leads that are coupled to the via node. Leads configured to transfer electrons away from said via node are assigned a positive polarity of the effective current density. Leads configured to transfer electrons towards the via node are assigned a negative polarity of the effective current density.
US08438515B2
A memory module has an array of connections. The array of connections is arranged in rows and columns such that there are first and second outer columns. Connections in the first and second outer columns can be interchanged to optimize double-side module placement on a substrate. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.
US08438514B2
A timing analysis mechanism allows defining a clock alias that correlates a clock that is not present in an integrated circuit design to a real clock in the integrated circuit design. In a first implementation, when an existing user assertion references a clock alias, the timing analysis mechanism generates a new user assertion that references the real clock specified in the clock alias. The new user assertion is then used in the timing analysis and the existing user assertion is not. In a second implementation, when an existing user assertion references a clock alias, the timing analysis mechanism generates a duplicate clock in the timing database, preserving all its attributes, and then passes the assertion using the alias name as well as any assertions using the corresponding real clock name to the timing engine to be used in the timing analysis.
US08438505B2
The present disclosure involves a method. The method includes decomposing a layout of a circuit into a plurality of patterns. The method includes generating a plurality of contours to represent the plurality of patterns after the patterns have been subjected to a manufacturing process. The method includes generating a plurality of polygons that approximate geometries of the contours, respectively. The method includes associating each of the polygons with a respective one of a plurality of pattern elements in a pattern library, wherein the pattern elements each include a shape that resembles the associated polygon and electrical parameters extracted from the shape. The method includes calculating electrical performance of the circuit based on the pattern elements associated with the polygons.
US08438500B2
A computing device with a display simultaneously displays a plurality of user interface objects, a currently selected user interface object, and a plurality of resizing handles for the currently selected user interface object. Each respective resizing handle has a corresponding handle activation region with a default position relative to the respective resizing handle, a default size, and a default shape. The device detects a first input on a first handle activation region for a first resizing handle in the plurality of resizing handles. In response to detecting the first input, the device: resizes the currently selected user interface object, and for at least one resizing handle in the plurality of resizing handles, modifies a corresponding handle activation region by changing the position of the handle activation region relative to the resizing handle from the default position to a modified position.
US08438488B2
An Image-forming apparatus, which that can customize operation panel screens and customizes panel screen design information, having a communications unit that receives panel customizing information including sending origin identification information, user information, and panel customizing data from a server, user terminal or a plurality of Image-forming apparatuses. The panel customizing information control unit controls according to the type of sending origin determined by the sending origin determining unit and stores the received panel customizing information in the panel customizing information memory unit. The operation panel screen control unit controls the configurations of the operation panel screens and operating keys based on the stored panel customizing information, and standard screen design information.
US08438487B1
Method and apparatus facilitate browsing of web pages or other electronic content stored over a network of remote and/or local storage devices. Browsing is performed without repeated intermediary clicking and page downloads. Pre-browsing of the category structure is provided via rolling the cursor from category to category, and level to level, to view each category's sub-categories, without clicking on a category or downloading web-page(s) linked to the category. When the user selects the content linked to a particular category, the user invokes the link-token corresponding to the content to retrieve the content. A dynamic tracking-string with an embedded one-click nested/cascading category browsing apparatus facilitates returning and/or changing path during browsing and examination of electronic media, and allows the user to review more than one path along the category structure while the browser is at a page linked to any category at any level.
US08438486B2
A facility for generating a graphic image is described. The facility receives from a user a body of text whose creation is not subject to any rules or prototypes. The facility discerns from the body of text a textual organization. The facility then generates a graphic image conveying the discerned textual organization.
US08438484B2
A Video Preview Module, a fast and adaptable software module designed to generate an on-the-fly video storyboard that enhances the online video browsing experience of the user. The VP module is a client-side implementation. This allows the module to be scalable and adaptable in bringing a uniform online video browsing experience over multiple consumer devices.
US08438476B2
A product creator system includes a business application and a distribution utility. The business application enables a user to specify and/or edit (via a user client) a document. The business application generates a packet that is transmitted to the distribution utility. The packet describes the document, such as a document of a particular type (where the document is based on variable content and/or variable layout), and a distribution method for the document. Distribution methods include print, ship, mail, fax, email, and save. The distribution utility generates and distributes the document (via an output device) based on the packet. The business application, which can be used with a variety of distribution utilities, includes a web front-end and a packet generator. The distribution utility, which can be used with a variety of business applications, includes control logic and a document processor. The document processor helps generate the document.
US08438475B2
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for the production of accented presentations using pre-defined templates and material, which presentations may be in a printed or scrap-booked format. A server system may be made available to clients over a network, that server providing templates, patterns and associated material, the server providing a client with executable instructions enabling a user to make selections to a final accented presentation. The server system may receive an order including an identification of a template and user selections, and may include an interpretive and production system that fabricates a final accented presentation, or a part of fabrication and/or assembly thereof. Detailed information on various example embodiments of the inventions are provided in the Detailed Description below, and the inventions are defined by the appended claims.
US08438468B2
The invention, which may be a kind of annotations processor, detects zero or more tagsets turned on or selected at runtime. The annotations adapter reads an abstract unit from a java file, and if an annotation of the abstract unit has a tag that is among the tags of a turned on tagset, then the annotations adapter may generate an artifact showing the influence of the annotation. Such a process may continue until there are no more abstract units to process. Comments or annotations that fail to be tagged with a tag of a selected tagset may, nevertheless, be mentioned with a kind of ‘place-holder’ indicating that such comments exist.
US08438448B2
A decoding method for low density generator matrix codes is disclosed, which decodes a bit information sequence that is transmitted after encoding with LDGC, the method comprises: S1: filling L−K known bits in a received code word sequence R and deleting code word symbols erased by a channel in R, and getting Re; S2: deleting rows corresponding to the code word symbols erased by a channel from a transposed matrix Gldgct of an LDGC generator matrix, and getting Ge; S3: obtaining It according to relation Ge×It=Re; S4: obtaining st according to relation Gldgct(0:L−1,0:L−1)×It=st, and getting an original information sequence of K bits by deleting the filled L−K known bits from st. The present disclosure can significantly reduce the storage overhead of a decoder, accelerate the decoding speed, and allow LDGC to be more smartly used in high speed communication systems.
US08438447B2
An encoder receives an input bit stream and generates, based on the input bit stream, a first output bit stream based on at least a first polynomial and a second output bit stream based on at least a second polynomial. The first and second polynomials are each different from each other. The encoder forms a first packet of code symbols, having a first code rate, based on bits from the first output bit stream. A transmitter transmits the first packet. A receiver receives a first negative acknowledgment indicating unsuccessful decoding of the first packet after transmitting of the first packet. The encoder punctures bits from the second output bit stream and forms a second packet of code symbols having a second code rate. The second code rate is different from the first code rate. The transmitter transmits the second packet in response to the receiver receiving the first negative acknowledgment.
US08438441B2
Functional circuits and cores of circuits are tested on integrated circuits using scan paths. Using parallel scan distributor and collector circuits for these scan paths improves test access of circuits and cores embedded within ICs and reduces the IC's power consumption during scan testing. A controller for the distributor and collector circuits includes a test control register, a test control state machine and a multiplexer. These test circuits can be connected in a hierarchy or in parallel. A conventional test access port or TAP can be modified to work with the disclosed test circuits.
US08438440B2
A device test architecture and interface is provided to enable efficient testing embedded cores within devices. The test architecture interfaces to standard IEEE 1500 core test wrappers and provides high test data bandwidth to the wrappers from an external tester. The test architecture includes compare circuits that allow for comparison of test response data to be performed within the device. The test architecture further includes a memory for storing the results of the test response comparisons. The test architecture includes a programmable test controller to allow for various test control operations by simply inputting an instruction to the programmable test controller from the external tester. The test architecture includes a selector circuit for selecting a core for testing. Additional features and embodiments of the device test architectures are also disclosed.
US08438437B2
A scannable integrated circuit (100) including a functional integrated circuit (P1, P2) having scan chains, multiple scan decompressors (120.1, 120.2), each operable to supply scan bits to some of the scan chains (101.k, 102.k), a shared scan-programmable control circuit (110, 300), a tree circuit (400) coupled with the functional integrated circuit (P1, P2), the shared scan-programmable control circuit (110, 300) coupled to control the tree circuit (400), and a selective coupling circuit (180) operable to provide selective coupling with the shared scan-programmable control circuit (110, 300) for scan programming through any of the multiple scan decompressors (120.1, 120.2). Other circuits, devices, systems, and processes of operation and manufacture are disclosed.
US08438434B2
Various embodiments relate to a memory device in a turbo decoder and a related method for allocating data into the memory device. Different communications standards use data blocks of varying sizes when enacting block decoding of concatenated convolutional codes. The memory device efficiently minimizes space while enabling a higher throughput of the turbo decoder by enabling a plurality of memory banks of equal size. The number of memory banks may be limited by the amount of unused space in the memory banks, which may be a waste of area on an IC chip. Using the address associated with the maximum value of the data block, the memory may be split into a plurality of memory blocks according to the most-significant bits of the maximum address, with a number of parallel SISO decoders matching the number of memory banks. This may enable higher throughput while minimizing area on the IC chip.
US08438432B2
An integrated circuit is interfaced with at least one dynamic random access memory (DRAM) via a memory interface. A plurality of user test options are received. The testing of the memory interface is controlled in accordance with the plurality of user test options. Test data, generated as a result of the testing of the memory interface, is stored.
US08438428B2
In a large-scale mail system such as that of a mobile phone carrier, in case that a mail gateway has encountered a fault due to a fault-inducing mail in arrival thereat, the mail gateway identifies the cause of the fault to prevent the recurrence thereof. The mail gateway is configured to include a mail relaying process used for relaying mails and a monitoring process used for supervising other processes. On occurrence of a fault due to a fault-inducing mail received by the mail relaying process, the monitoring process detects the fault-inducing mail that has cause the fault, the characteristics of the fault-inducing mail and the conditions of the fault, and then records information thus detected into a fault-inducing mail information table. After recovery from the fault under control of the monitoring process, the mail relaying process receives a new arriving mail. Upon receipt of the new arriving mail, the mail relaying process compares the characteristics thereof with relevant information recorded in the fault-inducing mail information table. If a match is found, the mail relaying process performs one of three countermeasures according to the conditions concerned; skipping over a faulty-point processing, returning an error reply to a mail transmission source, or returning a notification of non-delivery thereto.
US08438411B2
In an information processing apparatus which is connected to a Web server and equipped with a Web browser for displaying an operation screen provided by the Web server and a processing unit for processing image data, an access from the Web browser to the Web server is detected, and, in a case where the Web browser accesses to the Web server, the processing unit is activated according to a content of the detected access.
US08438410B2
Described herein are techniques for dynamic memory frequency/voltage scaling to augment existing memory power management techniques and further improve memory power efficiency. Each operating point is defined as an operational state for the memory.
US08438404B2
The disclosure is applied to a generic microprocessor architecture with a set (e.g., one or more) of controlling elements (e.g., MPEs) and a set of groups of sub-processing elements (e.g., SPEs). Under this arrangement, MPEs and SPEs are organized in a way that a smaller number MPEs control the behavior of a group of SPEs using program code embodied as a set of virtualized control threads. The arrangement also enables MPEs delegate functionality to one or more groups of SPEs such that those group(s) of SPEs will act as pseudo MPEs. The pseudo MPEs will utilize pseudo virtualized control threads to control the behavior of other groups of SPEs. In a typical embodiment, the apparatus includes a MCP coupled to a power supply coupled with cores to provide a supply voltage to each core (or core group) and controlling-digital elements and multiple instances of sub-processing elements.
US08438394B2
A device-bound certificate authority binds a certificate to one or more devices by including digital fingerprints of the devices in the certificate. A device only uses a device-bound certificate if the digital fingerprint of the device is included in the certificate and is verified. Thus, a certificate is only usable by one or more devices to which the certificate is explicitly bound. Such device-bound certificates can be used for various purposes served by certificates generally such as device driver authentication and authorization of access to secure content, for example.
US08438386B2
A method and system for controlling access to an Internet resource is disclosed herein. When a request for an Internet resource, such as a Web site, is transmitted by an end-user of a LAN, a security appliance for the LAN analyzes a reputation index for the Internet resource before transmitting the request over the Internet. The reputation index is based on a reputation vector which includes a plurality of factors for the Internet resource such as country of domain registration, country of service hosting, country of an internet protocol address block, age of a domain registration, popularity rank, internet protocol address, number of hosts, to-level domain, a plurality of run-time behaviors, JavaScript block count, picture count, immediate redirect and response latency. If the reputation index for the Internet resource is at or above a threshold value established for the LAN, then access to the Internet resource is permitted. If the reputation index for the Internet resource is below a threshold value established for the LAN, then access to the Internet resource is denied.
US08438375B1
A media player is executed on an electronic device by implementing a runtime of a media player in a modular framework on the electronic device. The modular framework is configured to have each of multiple types of media player runtimes implemented therein and to host modules that configure any of the types of media player runtimes for respective device types. The runtime is configured for the electronic device using a module hosted by the modular framework. The module abstracts at least one resource in the electronic device available to the media player. The electronic device is prepared for execution of the media player on the electronic device, and the media player uses the resource during the execution based on configuration according to the module.
US08438370B1
Loops with internal data dependencies (e.g., in a Mersenne Twister pseudorandom number generator) are implemented by exploiting arrays of cooperating threads that can be executed concurrently using a suitably configured processor. In one implementation, each thread is assigned to update a different element of a data array where updating of later elements depends on updates to earlier elements. Thread synchronization techniques are advantageously used to control the order in which different threads update their assigned elements such that the data dependencies are correctly handled. To the extent that threads assigned to different data elements do not have data dependencies on each other, those threads can be executed in parallel.
US08438362B2
A method, in one embodiment, can include determining whether an administrative task for a file system is to be performed within a thin storage memory array. Furthermore, if the administrative task for the file system is to be performed, a determination is made as to whether memory space is freed up while performing the administrative task. If memory space is freed up while performing the administrative task, a determination is made as to whether the freed up memory space satisfies a predefined contiguous memory space threshold. If the predefined contiguous memory space threshold is satisfied by the freed up memory space, a determination is made as to whether a memory space reclamation process is to be performed. If the memory space reclamation process is to be performed, the freed up memory space is reclaimed from the file system.
US08438357B1
A technique applicable during the transfer of data to and from a memory involves: operating a memory interface using memory access cycles that each transfer a quantity of data D across the memory interface; receiving a request to transfer a quantity of data Q across the memory interface; and calculating a value M as a function of a plurality of parameters, M being a minimum number of the memory access cycles needed to carry out the transfer of the quantity of data Q across the memory interface, wherein the calculating includes determining a logarithm of one of the parameters, and then determining the value M as a function of the logarithm.
US08438354B2
The electronic device and a preventing data loss method adapted for an electronic device are disclosed. The electronic device includes a storage unit to store an application. The method includes the steps: running an application in response to user input. Detecting the user input in real time and starting to time when the user input is not detected, and evaluating whether the period timed reaches a predetermined time period. If the predetermined time period is elapsed, suspending the application and detecting an electric energy of a battery providing power to the electronic device; evaluating whether the electric energy of the battery reaches a preset value. If the electric energy of the battery reaches the preset value, making a backup of process data associated with the suspended application in the storage unit.
US08438339B2
The illustrative embodiments provide a method, a computer program product, and an apparatus for managing a cache. A probability of a future request for data to be stored in a portion of the cache by a thread is identified for each of the number of threads to form a number of probabilities. The data is stored with a rank in a number of ranks in the portion of the cache responsive to receiving the future request from the thread in the number of threads for the data. The rank is selected using the probability in the number of probabilities for the thread.
US08438338B2
An approach is provided to identifying cache extension sizes that correspond to different partitions that are running on a computer system. The approach extends a first hardware cache associated with a first processing core that is included in the processor's silicon substrate with a first memory allocation from a system memory area, with the system memory area being external to the silicon substrate and the first memory allocation corresponding to one of the plurality of cache extension sizes that corresponds to one of the partitions that is running on the computer system. The approach further extends a second hardware cache associated with a second processing core also included in the processor's silicon substrate with a second memory allocation from the system memory area with the second memory allocation corresponding to another of the cache extension sizes that corresponds to a different partitions that is being executed by the second processing core.
US08438324B2
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a (e.g., hybrid) redundant array of independent disks (RAID)-based storage control board having a fiber channel interface controller. Specifically, the present invention relates to a storage control board having a RAID controller with a peripheral component interconnect express (PCI-e) interface and a fiber channel interface controller. In one embodiment, the RAID controller is coupled to an input/output (I/O) hub and a set (at least one) of PCI-e slots, which themselves can receive cards such as a fiber channel (FC) add-on card, a serial attached small component system interface (SAS) add-on card, or a PCI-e bridge add-on card. The I/O hub can be coupled to a set of processors, each of which can be coupled to a main memory module or the like.
US08438315B1
Described are techniques for upgrading a driver. A driver is installed which includes an upgrade facility, a base driver and a first set of one or more driver extension modules for processing input/output operations for one or more devices. Processing is performed to upgrade the driver using the upgrade facility. The processing includes loading one or more upgrade modules associated with a second version of said driver and performing cutover processing for each of the one or more devices.
US08438308B2
To address shortcomings in the prior art, the invention uses fate sharing information to compute backup paths. Fate sharing information relates groups of nodes or links according to common characteristics, attributes, or shared resources (e.g., a shared power supply, close proximity, same physical link). In one embodiment, fate-sharing information includes costs associated with groups of nodes or links. When a primary path contains a link or node that is in a fate-sharing group, the other links or nodes in the fate-sharing group are assigned the cost associated with that fate-sharing group. The node computing the backup path takes into account the assigned cost together with other node and link costs. Discovering the existence of the relationships and assigning costs to the groups may be done manually or automatically.
US08438299B2
A system and method is provided for facilitating data collection from storage devices. A generic low level module may be provided that can handle data collection for devices that store data according to particular variants of a storage standard such as SMI-S storage standard, SNMP protocol, and/or other storage standard.
US08438286B2
Methods and apparatus to allocate resources associated with a distributive computing network are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes receiving resource allocation information associated with a service that is to be hosted by a distributive computing network, determining a first configuration type and a second configuration type specified within the received resource allocation information, determining at least one configuration group associated with the first configuration type and at least one configuration group associated with the second configuration type, determining physical resources included within the distributive computing network to host the service, electronically allocating the physical resources for the at least one configuration group associated with the first configuration type, electronically allocating the physical resources for the at least one configuration group associated with the second configuration type, and hosting the service within the physical resources in accordance with the allocations.
US08438256B2
One embodiment of the present invention is a method of migrating functionality to a target virtualized mobile device including virtualization software that supports one or more virtual machines, the method including: (a) embodying the functionality in a virtual machine; and (b) migrating the virtual machine to the target virtualized mobile device.
US08438252B2
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for managing network devices. A central management system stores shared configuration objects in a central configuration database. A network device stores shared configuration objects and device-specific configuration objects in a local configuration database. The local configuration database's shared configuration objects correspond to shared configuration objects in the central configuration database. The network device can be configured locally or using the central management system.
US08438249B2
A sensor-Net system includes sensor nodes which are in intermittent operation so as to save power by repeating activated state and inactivated state at a regular interval. Synchronization of time in the system is executed by aligning to the intermittent operation of the sensor nodes. A management server issues a setTime command for configuring the time to each gateway node at a specified interval. Each router node sets or corrects the time of it based on the time received from the gateway node and thereafter turns ON the time configuration flag for each sensor node in order to expand the setTime command to all of its sibling sensor nodes. The router node, upon reception of a polling, which is a command request, from the sensor node, obtains the time at that time, then uses the time to generate a setTime command to transmit to that sensor node.
US08438247B1
Techniques, including systems and methods, for capturing data sets include performing a client-side two-phase commit to ensure one or more data consistency conditions. A logical volume may represent a data set that is distributed among a plurality of physical storage devices. One or more client devices are instructed to block at least acknowledgment of write operations. When the one or more client devices have blocked at least acknowledgment of write operations, one or more servers in communication with the physical storage devices are instructed to capture corresponding portions of the data set. When the servers have been instructed to capture corresponding portions of the data set, the client devices are instructed to resume at least acknowledgment of write operations.
US08438244B2
A system including at least one storage node and at least one computation node connected by a switch is described herein. Each storage node has one or more storage units and one or more network interface components, the collective bandwidths of the storage units and the network interface components being proportioned to one another to enable communication to and from other nodes at the collective bandwidth of the storage units. Each computation node has logic configured to make requests of storage nodes, an input/output bus, and one or more network interface components, the bandwidth of the bus and the collective bandwidths of the network interface components being proportioned to one another to enable communication to and from other nodes at the bandwidth of the input/output bus.
US08438240B2
A first packet is received at a proxy server from a client and includes a first incoming request for an action to be performed on an identified resource. The first packet is received at the proxy server as a result of a DNS request for a domain corresponding to the identified resource resolving to an IP address of the proxy server. The proxy server selects, based on at least in part on a set of parameters associated with the first packet, one of multiple IP addresses for use as a source IP address for a second packet that carries an outgoing request and transmits the second packet. The proxy server receives a third packet that includes an incoming response from the destination origin server in response to the outgoing request and transmits a fourth packet to the client that includes an outgoing response based on the incoming response.
US08438239B2
Apparatus and method for propagating data between multiple terminal devices includes determining the functional operability of a plurality of devices to assess which devices are properly configured. If a device is properly configured, operating the device in a transmit-mode to transmit functional operability data. If a device is not properly configured, operating the device in a receive-mode to receive the functional operability data. Coupling a transmitting device and at least one receiving device to a plurality of ports that are operably connected together so that the transmitting device and receiving device share the functional operability data.
US08438222B2
An information processing system is disclosed. The system includes: a client that executes information display processing; and a server that creates a display structure description file applied in the information display processing, wherein the client acquires image data reference information and transmits display structure description file creating data including the image data reference information to the server, the server creates the display structure description file and transmits the created display structure description file to the client, and the client executes processing for displaying a map on a display unit on the basis of the display structure description file received from the server and acquiring image data from a storage unit within the client on the basis of the image data reference information recorded in the display structure description file and then displaying the acquired image data on the display unit.
US08438221B2
A message processing system and method providing a broadcast message to a plurality of user devices located within a geographically defined broadcast target area, the system including a broadcast service bureau communicatively coupled for receiving from a broadcast agent access system providing a broadcast request from an originating broadcast agent associated one broadcast agent message origination systems; the received broadcast request includes a broadcast agent identification, the geographically defined broadcast target area, and a broadcast message, the broadcast service bureau verifying the broadcast request as a function of the broadcast agent identification including an authority of the originating broadcast agent to send the broadcast message to the broadcast target area; the broadcast service bureau processing the verified broadcast request for transmission to one or more broadcast message networks providing broadcast message alerting service to at least a portion of the broadcast target area.
US08438220B2
A method, system and computer-usable medium are disclosed for reducing overhead associated with exporting remote objects. A session context is generated when a remote or local session is respectively established by a remote or local client with a bootstrap remote object. The session context is then determined to be either remote or local and marked accordingly. If the session context is marked as remote, then the bootstrap remote object is exported as remote objects. However, if the session context is marked as local, then the bootstrap remote object is not exported as remote objects. Instead, they are provided for use by the local client as non-exported remote objects.
US08438209B1
An analog optical adder system that achieves high precision results. The system uses an analog optical carry function to provide a result having a precision higher than the precision of the individual elements of the system. The optical carry function is created by optical carry determinators that are configured to add an optical carry, if any, to an optical signal associated with a next adjacent byte of the digital signals being added. The use of optical carry enables greater overall addition precision.
US08438202B2
There is provided a mechanism for generating random numbers following the normal distribution which does not generate a sequence correlation. The mechanism for generating random numbers following the normal distribution includes: a random recurrence plot generating mechanism 1 for generating random recurrence plots; and a recurrence plot-time series converting mechanism 4 for converting the random recurrence plots from the random recurrence plot generating unit 1 into time series, wherein Gaussian random numbers are generated by the recurrence plot-time series converting mechanism 4.
US08438190B2
In an embodiment of the invention, analytical data may be extracted from a business intelligence (BI) system on criteria specified in metadata of a business intelligence query. Once the data is extracted from the BI system, the extracted content may be provided in the context of semantic identifiers. In an embodiment, the semantic identifiers may provide a description of the extracted content associated with the identifier. In one embodiment, the semantic identifiers may be obtained from the criteria specified in the query. In another embodiment, the semantic identifiers may be defined in and obtained from a separate enterprise service repository. In an embodiment, a proposed mapping between query elements and semantic identifiers may be suggested by a processor.
US08438187B2
The system, method and machine-readable medium that provides an efficient presentation of a hierarchical table by providing an accurate summation of table line values when the table is expanded and collapsed.
US08438185B2
Proposed are a file storage apparatus and an access control method capable of facilitating the setting and change of an access right of a user for accessing a file.A first account which only authorizes referral of all files and a second account which authorizes referral and editing of all files are defined in advance as accounts in a file system, and if a workspace unit receives an access request from a client for accessing a file and the access right in the workspace of the user for accessing the target file of the access request and the access right in the file system are different, the workspace unit requests the file system unit to perform the access processing to the file upon switching the account of the user to the first or second account.
US08438182B2
The described implementations relate to patient identification. One implementation can acquire binary biometric data and structured data from a patient. This implementation can compare the acquired patient binary biometric data and structured data to binary biometric data and structured data associated with patient files in an electronic master patient index.
US08438175B2
A macro video analysis system including a first connection to a first persistent database of a first video analysis system monitoring a first remote location, a second connection to a second persistent database of a second video analysis system monitoring a second remote location, a macro persistent database archiving a respective event generated by each the first remote video analysis system monitoring the first remote location and the second video analysis system monitoring the second remote location and wherein each respective event is respectively transmitted through the first connection and the second connection, and a database query module to evaluate the events.
US08438173B2
Tools and techniques for indexing and querying data stores using concatenated terms are provided. These tools may receive input queries that include at least two query terms. The query terms are correlated respectively with fields contained within records within a data store, with these fields being populated with respective field values. The query terms are arranged according to an indexing priority according to which the fields are ranked within an indexing table, which is associated with the data store. The tools then concatenate the query terms as arranged according to the indexing priority. In turn, the tools search the index table for any entries that are responsive to the concatenated query terms.
US08438169B2
Each of a plurality of Worker processes are allowed to perform any and all of the following tasks involving logged work items: (1) reading a subset of the work items from a log; (2) sequentially ordering work items for corresponding data objects; (3) applying a sequentially ordered set of work items to a corresponding data object; and (4) transmitting a subset of work items to a Worker process running on another database server in a cluster, if necessary. These tasks can be performed concurrently, at will, and as available, by the Worker processes. An improved checkpointing technique eliminates the need for the Worker processes to get to a synchronization point and stop. Instead, a Coordinator process examines the current state of progress of the Worker processes and computes a past point in the sequence of work items at which all work items before that point have been completely processed, and records this point as the checkpoint.
US08438167B2
A method and a device for recording media are provided. The method includes performing a media recording process. During the media recording process, periodically media index information are generated according to currently written media chunks. The generated media index information is saved.
US08438158B2
A document, which may be referred to as a “citing document,” may include citations to one or more cited documents. An index of such documents may be referred to as a citation index or citator. A citation may be preceded in a citing document by introductory text, which may be called a signal, and one or more entries in a citation index may indicate which signal, if any, introduced a recorded citation. Computerized systems and methods for causing such display are also provided.
US08438152B2
Methods for transforming a query to simulate a bushy tree execution plan for queries containing joins in series are provided. Left deep tree execution plans are supported by most relational database systems but are inefficient at processing queries directed to databases with snowstorm schema. A snowstorm schema contains several large fact tables and many smaller dimension tables, which make reference to one another. Bushy tree execution plans can be much more efficient for processing queries to snowstorm schema. The decision to choose between left-deep and bushy tree execution plans are based on the relative costs of the two execution plans. The methods provided transform queries which are otherwise executed with left deep tree execution plans into queries which are executed with simulated bushy tree execution plans.
US08438133B2
An information processing apparatus includes a file obtaining unit, a saving unit, a save-state information storage unit, an accepting unit, an updating unit, and a transmitting unit. The file obtaining unit obtains a first file from a file management apparatus that manages the first file. The saving unit saves the first file. The save-state information storage unit stores save-state information about a save state of the first file. The accepting unit accepts a manipulation performed on the first file saved in the saving unit. The updating unit updates the save-state information, when the save state of the first file is changed in response to the accepted manipulation. The transmitting unit transmits the save-state information to the file management apparatus.
US08438123B2
A method of configuring a communication channel prior to the transmission of an input signal along the communication channel, the communication channel comprising a plurality of sub-channels, the method comprising determining the strength of the input signal and in accordance with the determined signal strength, selecting a set of the plurality of sub-channels and transmitting said input signal along the set of sub-channels in parallel, wherein each of the sub-channels has a predetermined noise characteristic such that the set of selected sub-channels exhibits a combined noise characteristic in which the standard deviation of the noise is proportional to the signal strength.
US08438117B2
A method and system for managing a service level of a service provided by a service provider to a customer under a service level agreement. The actual measurement data is adjudicated to correct the measurement data in accordance with at least one adjudication element that provides information relating to how to correct the measurement data. The adjudicated measurement data is transformed into operational data by being reorganized into one or more groups of data. The operational data is evaluated by applying a formula to the operational data, resulting in the operational data being configured for being subsequently qualified. The operational data is qualified by comparing the evaluated operational data with specified service level targets for at least one service level period and identifying operational data points meeting and/or not meeting the specified service level targets.
US08438113B2
The invention provides an end-to-end automated streaming workflow process which enables real-time or batch processing to grant licenses and to acquire licenses for 3rd party copyrighted content. Using a computer, the invention automates the permissions transaction process of procuring and processing licenses real-time or by batch, reducing lead-times from many weeks or months to hours, automatically transforming and translating requests and responses for global e-commerce among multi-vendor systems and non-standard rights semantics and languages, eliminating or reducing manual labor effort, negotiating licensing fees to conform with specifications, protecting rights-holders' intellectual property rights and assuring rights-holders they are fairly compensated and paid for their work, identifying “public domain” and/or “fair use” works, saving companies time and money, while providing a competitive advantage for publishers and the enterprise.
US08438109B2
Dynamically enabling and facilitating businesses or other entities to locate and transact with payment systems for the purpose of processing payments. A customer interacts with a supplier of an item (e.g., goods or services), selects an item for purchase, and provides the supplier with payment criteria. The supplier queries a payment system directory to locate candidate payment systems for the transaction. The supplier then interacts directly with one or more of the payment systems to partially or fully process payment for the transaction. Alternatively, the supplier interacts with a gateway service, which queries a payment system directory to locate candidate payment systems and then interacts with one or more of the payment systems to process payment for the transaction.
US08438103B2
A market map interface displays market information and trader-related information associated with at least two tradable objects. In one embodiment, the at least two graphical interfaces may be linked, and a user may define one or more adjustment parameters to be used to adjust the view of information being displayed via the linked graphical interfaces. For instance, a user may initiate repositioning of one of the linked graphical interfaces, thus, effectively, causing other linked graphical interfaces to be repositioned according to the defined adjustment parameters.
US08438099B2
A periodic reset total return index may be based on a standard index, such as an equity index. The value of the periodic reset total return index may be the sum of the standard index plus the income flow generated by the index, such as dividends generated by stocks. The periodic reset total return index valuation may be deployed as the basis for a futures contract. On a periodic basis, the income flow accrued for the preceding period are passed from the short to the long position holder, with a corresponding adjustment of the settlement price of the contract. The expiration of the contract may be settled at the sum of the underlying index quotation plus the income flow accrual for the previous period. A buyer of a futures contract based on a periodic reset total return index receives the performance of the index plus the intervening income flow accrual.
US08438096B1
Computer-implemented methods and systems for evaluating residential mortgage loan backed security products in which electronic loan data for the same individual loans is received from two or more different loan information providers, and the electronic loan data for respective individual loans received from the loan information providers is integrated. Thereafter, each individual loan in the integrated loan data is scored with a risk score based on a plurality of risk attributes of each individual loan; pre-defined forecast vectors are applied to the bucketed loans; cash flow forecasts are generated for the bucketed loans; and a price and/or yield for each bucketed loan is derived based on the cash flow forecasts.
US08438086B2
The present invention provides a seamless entry system that comprises a universal session manager. Users connect to the host service provider with a unique username and password. Then, through a series of data exchanges between the universal session manager, a validation database, and the remote service module, the customer may be transparently logged into remote service providers. Internet banking customers utilize a browser system to connect to a host server providing a range of banking services supported by a remote or distinct server. According to the method, the customer first enters a username and password to gain access to the host service provider. The universal session manager transmits data required for login to the remote service provider. The user is thus able to utilize the remote services with his/her web browser system without having entered a username or password particular to the remote service.
US08438081B2
Systems, methods, or media is directed to managing an outfit over a network. A navigation of an electronic media source is provided with a virtual closet widget representative of outfit data for display on at least one device. An activation component is provided within the virtual closet widget to configure a panel. The panel provides a selectable catalog of items that are configured to be added into the outfit data. In response to adding an item, a visual indication of the item on the virtual closet widget is provided, wherein the item comprises at least one unset attribute for setting through the virtual closet.
US08438077B2
A system for providing supplementary product sales is provided in which a central controller, which may be operated by a credit card issuer, receives a purchase from a card authorization terminal. The purchase includes at least one purchase parameter, such as a customer account identifier, product identifiers for specifying items purchased or product price. The central controller determines a supplementary product to offer that is based on the at least one purchase parameter. A product identifier for specifying the supplementary product is transmitted to the card authorization terminal, where the customer chooses whether to accept the offered supplementary product. The card authorization terminal generates and transmits to the central controller a selection signal indicative of whether the supplementary product is accepted. If the selection signal indicates that the supplementary product is accepted, the central controller adjusts a balance of a financial account in dependence on an adjustment value associated with the supplementary product. The financial account may be, for example, a credit card account of the customer, the merchant controlling the card authorization terminal, or a merchant offering the accepted supplementary product. Thus, payment for the supplementary product or rewards for accepting the supplementary product may be transferred among various parties automatically.
US08438072B2
A method of operating an online dynamic-bidding exchange for use in a reverse auction. The exchange includes a server system that includes a database, and a client system coupled to the server system via a communications network. The method includes determining a lowest credible price of a product, and receiving one or more offers to sell the product from a seller and storing the offers to sell in the database, wherein the offers to sell is embodied as a reserve price. The method also includes determining a sales price of the product based on a comparison of the lowest credible price and the competing reserve prices, transmitting the sales price from the server system to the client system, and displaying the sales price to a buyer via the client system.
US08438054B2
In one embodiment, an analytical system for generating and accessing arguments is disclosed. Each argument is associated with a conclusion indicating whether a particular situation will likely have a negative or positive result. One embodiment of the analytical system includes a database for storing a plurality of templates, each template including a plurality of questions which may be answered to generate a particular argument having an associated conclusion that is based on those answers. The analytical system also includes an argument server that includes means for a user to select a template that is most relevant to a particular situation, means for receiving answers to one or more of the selected template's questions such that a new argument is generated having a conclusion based on those answers, and means for associating supporting evidence provided by the user with each answer.
US08438053B2
Projects of any type require sophisticated management software programs. In reality, these management software programs are provided by various vendors and for different professional fields. For example, scheduling programs for construction professionals, blue print programs for drafting professionals, accounting programs for cost-control professionals. In addition, there are numerous other unofficial and official documents generated by managers of different levels for reporting or track-record-keeping purposes using popular word processing programs and spread-sheet programs. Documents generated by different software programs can only be viewed under the programs they are generated under or compatible programs. This poses a problem in that there is a lack of organized control resulting in difficulty in locating and viewing documents in a timely manner. The present invention provides an one view software program that would be able to provide an organized control and viewing of all documents regardless which software programs they are generated under.
US08438042B2
This invention provides an instrument for obtaining consent for a genetic test that comprises three or more integrated elements including an information element for conveying information to an individual concerning a genetic test, and instruction element for use by a practitioner in instructing individuals on the genetic test and use of the instrument, a collection element for collecting an individual's medical and family history, a assessment element for assessing the individual's retention and understanding of information concerning a genetic test, a certification element for certifying the individual's consent to said tests, as well as housekeeping elements useful for recording a medical record, labeling a sample, and billing. Also provided is a method for obtaining informed consent for a genetic test using an integrated instrument. The instruments and methods disclosed have utility in obtaining informed consent for genetic tests.
US08438038B2
A system for weight loss or weight management of a person may include a monitoring unit and remote computing system. The monitoring unit includes a transducer arranged to generate a signal representative of the patient's weight. It further includes a processor operatively coupled to the transducer and to a memory device. Further, an output device and an input device are operatively coupled to the processor. The memory device is programmed with a set of instructions causing the processor to cooperate with the output device to present questions directed toward weight loss and to cooperate with the input device to receive answers to the questions. The remote computing system is in communication with the monitoring unit. The remote computing system is programmed to receive the answers provided by the person and to receive the signal representative of the person's weight. The remote computing system generates an alert on the basis thereof.
US08438033B2
A voice conversion apparatus stores, in a parameter memory, target speech spectral parameters of target speech, stores, in a voice conversion rule memory, a voice conversion rule for converting voice quality of source speech into voice quality of the target speech, extracts, from an input source speech, a source speech spectral parameter of the input source speech, converts extracted source speech spectral parameter into a first conversion spectral parameter by using the voice conversion rule, selects target speech spectral parameter similar to the first conversion spectral parameter from the parameter memory, generates an aperiodic component spectral parameter representing from selected target speech spectral parameter, mixes a periodic component spectral parameter included in the first conversion spectral parameter with the aperiodic component spectral parameter, to obtain a second conversion spectral parameter, and generates a speech waveform from the second conversion spectral parameter.
US08438023B1
Methods and devices are disclosed for notifying a user of a likelihood of successful recognition in an environment by a voice recognition application. In one embodiment, the method includes a device recording a noise sample in an environment and making a comparison of the noise sample and at least one predetermined threshold. The method further includes, based on the comparison, determining a likelihood of successful recognition in the environment by a voice recognition application, and triggering a notification indicating the likelihood. In another embodiment, the device includes a microphone configured to record a noise sample in an environment, a processor, and data storage comprising instructions executable by the processor to make a comparison of the noise sample and at least one predetermined threshold, based on the comparison, determine a likelihood of successful recognition by a voice recognition application, and trigger a notification indicating the likelihood.
US08438021B2
A signal classifying method and apparatus are disclosed. The signal classifying method includes: obtaining a spectrum fluctuation parameter of a current signal frame determined as a foreground frame, and buffering the spectrum fluctuation parameter; obtaining a spectrum fluctuation variance of the current signal frame according to spectrum fluctuation parameters of all buffered signal frames, and buffering the spectrum fluctuation variance; and calculating a ratio of signal frames whose spectrum fluctuation variance is above or equal to a first threshold to all the buffered signal frames, and determining the current signal frame as a speech frame if the ratio is above or equal to a second threshold or determining the current signal frame as a music frame if the ratio is below the second threshold. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the spectrum fluctuation variance of the signal is used as a parameter for classifying the signals, and a local statistical method is applied to decide the type of the signal. Therefore, the signals are classified with few parameters, simple logical relations and low complexity.
US08438012B2
An apparatus and method for adaptive sub-band allocation of spectral coefficients are disclosed. The sizes of sub-bands are determined according to the distribution of spectral coefficients transformed from an input speech/audio signal to perform more elaborate quantization in units of sub-bands. Thus, quantization noise of the spectral coefficients is reduced, and sound quality in a frequency region is enhanced, thereby improving the quality of the signal.
US08438011B2
Personal name spelling correction suggestion technique embodiments are presented which provide suggestions for alternate spellings of a personal name. This involves creating a personal name directory which can be queried to suggest spelling corrections for personal names. A hash function that maps any personal name in a particular language and misspellings thereof to similar binary codewords is used to produce one or more binary codewords for each personal name in the directory. The same hash function is used to produce one or more binary codewords from a personal name presented in a query. The personal name directory is employed to identify up to a prescribed number of personal names, each of which has one or more associated binary codewords that are similar to one or more of the binary codewords produced from the personal name query. The identified personal names are suggested as alternate names for the query personal name.
US08438009B2
The present document describes a method and a system for generating classifiers from multilingual corpora including subsets of content-equivalent documents written in different languages. When the documents are translations of each other, their classifications must be substantially the same. Embodiments of the invention utilize this similarity in order to enhance the accuracy of the classification in one language based on the classification results in the other language, and vice versa. A system in accordance with the present embodiments implements a method which comprises generating a first classifier from a first subset of the corpora in a first language; generating a second classifier from a second subset of the corpora in a second language; and re-training each of the classifiers on its respective subset based on the classification results of the other classifier, until a training cost between the classification results produced by subsequent iterations reaches a local minima.
US08438005B1
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including stored computer programs, for generating modified phonetic representations of Indic words. An Indic sequence of Indic character combinations that each include an Indic character is received. An orthographic representation, e.g., an English-orthographic representation, of the Indic sequence is received. The representation includes a character combination that has a consonant followed by vowel A phonetic representation, e.g., an International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) representation, of the Indic sequence is generated and, based on a comparing, a schwa is removed from a character combination in the phonetic representation that corresponds to an orthographic character combination that does not have a consonant-vowel sequence.
US08438002B2
A mechanism for providing equation-level diagnostic error messages for system models undergoing circuit simulations is discussed. The components in a model of a system being simulated are converted into multiple numerical equations where each equation corresponds to a component in the system being simulated or a topology equation for the system model. Each numerical equation is numerically analyzed in order to identify illegal configurations in the system. Upon detection of an error, an error message listing the components associated with the illegal configuration is generated for the user.
US08438001B2
Method and apparatus for improving performance of noise analysis using a threshold based combination of noise estimation and simulation. The method includes classifying a circuit into one of four defined groups, determining if an input noise is small enough to skip simulation, estimating an output noise wave, scaling down a generated wave by a scaling factor depending on the circuit type, and determining if the estimated output noise is small enough to propagate or instead requires simulation.
US08437997B2
Methods, computer-readable mediums, and systems analyze hydrocarbon production data from a subsurface region to determine geologic time scale reservoir connectivity and production time scale reservoir connectivity for the subsurface region. Compartments, fluid properties, and fluid distribution are interpreted to determine geologic time scale reservoir connectivity and production time scale reservoir connectivity for the subsurface region. A reservoir connectivity model based on the geologic time scale and production time scale reservoir connectivity for the subsurface region is constructed, wherein the reservoir connectivity model includes a plurality of production scenarios each including reservoir compartments, connections, and connection properties for each scenario. Each of the production scenarios is tested and refined based on production data for the subsurface region.
US08437995B2
A design process and resulting bit structure is provided for drill bits wherein cutter geometries on the face of the bit are tailored to optimize the distribution of one or more of forces, torque, work, or power of each cutter relative to other cutters. Balanced are the forces, torque, work, or power generated by each cutter in respect to other cutters that are working within the same region of cut, so that all cutters within the same region of cut are generating sufficiently comparable forces, torque, work, or power. In this manner all of the cutters on the bit may share as closely as possible the work and loads required to penetrate the subterranean rock. The design process produces a bit structure in which each cutter is doing similar levels of work or creating similar levels of force, torque, or power relative to other cutters within the same region of cut on the bit, within specified ranges of design criteria.
US08437994B1
Systems, methods, and computer program products for generating a vector-based representation of a lens flare are provided. In some implementations, a method is provided. The method includes presenting a plurality of visually rendered wire frame shapes, each one of the plurality of visually rendered wire frame shapes having a geometric correspondence with a lens flare component, each lens flare component being one of: a center point, a flare ring, a flare ray, or a halo, receiving a first input to manipulate a first visually rendered wire frame shape in the plurality of visually rendered wire frame shapes to interactively change the position or form of a first corresponding lens flare component, and presenting a visual rendering of the first corresponding lens flare component where the visual rendering reflects the change in the position or the form of the first corresponding lens flare component.
US08437993B2
Mechanisms are provided for controlling a fidelity of a simulation of a system. A model of the system is received, the model of the system having a plurality of individual components of the system. Fidelity values are assigned to models of the individual components of the system. A simulation of the system is executed using the model of the system and the models of the individual components of the system. For each component in the plurality of individual components of the system, an activity level of the component during execution of the simulation is determined. The fidelity values of one or more of the models of the individual components of the system are dynamically adjusted during the execution of the simulation based on changes in individual activity levels of the individual components.
US08437978B2
Measurement apparatus is described that comprises a measurement portion for acquiring object measurements and an output portion for outputting measurement data relating to the acquired object measurements. A deactivation portion is provided for inhibiting normal operation of the measurement apparatus such that output of the measurement data is prevented. The deactivation portion, in use, reads apparatus usage information from an apparatus usage module and inhibits normal operation of the measurement apparatus if said apparatus usage information fails to meet one or more predetermined criteria. The apparatus usage module may be provided as an integral part of the measurement apparatus or as a separate activation button. The measurement apparatus may comprise a measurement probe such as a touch trigger measurement probe.
US08437974B2
An improved calibration detection system for use in calibrating an electronic apparatus includes a processor apparatus, an evaluation apparatus, and a connection apparatus. The connection apparatus includes a plurality of leads and is operated by the processor apparatus to internally switch and connect the various leads with various elements of the evaluation apparatus. By enabling all of the leads to be connected at the outset with the electronic apparatus and by internally switching the connections between the leads and the various elements of the evaluation apparatus, the calibration detection system saves time and avoids error in performing a testing protocol.
US08437972B2
A method for measuring sensor bias and a method for estimating sensor bias is provided. Road location data is obtained. Sensor observation data is obtained. A sensor observation is identified that corresponds to an on-road target moving on a known road. A measurement of one-dimensional sensor bias is formed. As one-dimensional sensor bias measurements accumulate, multi-dimensional sensor bias is estimated. Sensor bias estimates may then be incorporated into a multiple hypothesis tracker system.
US08437968B2
A method is disclosed for monitoring the vibration of a rotating shaft including, measuring a current shaft position and determining a centroid of the shaft. The current shaft sector is then determined. The current distance between the centroid and the current shaft position may then be determined. The current distance is compared with a previously stored maximum distance for that sector, and if greater, the current shaft position and current distance is stored as the new maximum for that sector. After a predetermined period of time, the maximum displacement between the stored maximum positions is calculated, which represents the maximum shaft displacement peak to peak. This value may then be visually displayed or automatically monitored by shaft control computers.
US08437967B2
A method of and system for inspecting multi-layer reticles. The method includes: selecting a multi-layer reticle having an array of cells arranged in R rows and C columns; defining a full inspection region that includes all cells of the array of cells; and when R is equal to one (or is greater than two) and C is greater than two (or is equal to one) and a cell of the array of cells is a dummy cell in a first or last position of a row (or of a column) of the array of cells, then reducing the full inspection region to generate a shrunken inspection region that does not include the dummy cell, and then inspecting the shrunken inspection region for defects. If the dummy cell is between two non-dummy cells, then the dummy cell is a copy of one of the non-dummy cells, but is not inspected.
US08437962B2
Systems, methods, and instructions encoded in a computer-readable medium can perform operations related to generating probabilistic information on characteristics of natural fractures of a subterranean formation. Fitted fracture models are generated based on microseismic event data for a subterranean region. The fitted fracture models represent estimated locations of fractures in the subterranean region. A distribution of fracture parameter values is generated based on the fitted fracture models. The distribution includes fracture parameter values and a probability associated with each fracture parameter value. Generating the fitted fracture models may include, for example, fitting a plane, a line or another type of equation to the measured locations of microseismic events. In some implementations, an injection treatment may be simulated and/or designed based on the probability distribution.
US08437956B2
Methods of communicating the location of an unmanned aerial system (UAS). Implementations of the method may include receiving position data for a UAS with an air traffic control reporting system (ATC-RS) from a ground control station (GCS) in communication with the UAS, where the ATC-RS and the GCS are coupled together and located on the ground. The method may include transmitting the position data using one or more telecommunication modems included in the ATC-RS to an air traffic control center (ATC) and transmitting the position data using an automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADS-B) and traffic information services broadcast (TIS-B) receiver to one or more aircraft.
US08437945B2
A method for adjusting fuel injection timing in an internal combustion engine including a cylinder and configured to operate multiple fuel injections in the cylinder per combustion cycle includes monitoring in-cylinder pressure through a first combustion cycle, determining actual combustion phasing metrics based upon the in-cylinder pressure, monitoring a baseline fuel injection timing comprising a first injection timing and a second injection timing, providing expected combustion phasing metrics based upon the baseline fuel injection timing, comparing the actual combustion phasing metrics to the expected combustion phasing metrics, and adjusting the baseline fuel injection timing in a second combustion cycle based upon the comparing.
US08437943B2
A method of controlling a diesel engine connected to a load, the method including the steps of detecting an increased torque requirement and matching a fuel flow with an airflow. The detecting an increased torque requirement step detects an increased torque requirement for the engine, the increased torque requirement taking place during a period of time. The matching a fuel flow step matches a fuel flow with an airflow going to the engine during the increased torque requirement, the matching step keeps the airflow and the fuel flow during the period of time at a substantially stoichiometric level enabling the use of a three-way catalyst to reduce NOx emissions during transients.
US08437941B2
A system for tuning the operation of a gas turbine is provided based on measuring operational parameters of the turbine and directing adjustment of operational controls for various operational elements of the turbine. A controller is provided for communicating with sensors and controls within the system. The controller receiving operational data from the sensors and comparing the data to stored operational standards to determining if turbine operation conforms to the standards. The controller then communicates selected adjustment in an operational parameter of the turbine. The controller then receives additional operational data from the sensors to determine if an additional adjustment is desired or is adjustment is desired of a further selected operational parameter.
US08437930B2
The present invention relates to a method for controlling a TCU fail-safe using an electronic shift lever. A failure state of TCU is verified through CAN BUS (serial communication, or hardware wire) using an electronic shift lever unit, and a parking sprag is forcibly unlocked from a parking gear by pulling an override cable for parking by the an electronic shift lever unit when TCU being in the failure state, so that the implementation of fail-safe according to a failure of TCU is accomplished with higher control stability than using a transmission and without an addition of a component or a change of design.
US08437924B2
A method for managing haul routes in work environments comprises collecting performance data associated with a machine operating in a work environment. The method also includes determining a drive axle torque of the machine and estimating a total effective grade associated with the machine based on the drive axle torque. The estimated total effective grade is compared with a threshold level and, if the estimated total effective grade exceeds the threshold level, a design performance of the machine may be simulated based on the calculated total effective grade. Design performance data is compared with the collected performance data, and a payload limit of the machine is adjusted if the design performance is inconsistent with collected performance data.
US08437920B2
The operator of a excavator sits in a seat that has a one computer monitor on the left side and another computer monitor on the right side. A control system produces first and second sets of information regarding operation of the excavator with the first set of information being particularly relevant to the digging operation. The selection of which computer monitor displays which of the first and second sets of information depends on a direction that the excavator swings between a digging site and a dumping site and that selection changes as the direction changes. This presents the first set of information on the computer monitor that is easily observable by the excavator operator during the digging operation.
US08437913B2
A method for steering pull compensation to maintain a steering load below a predetermined threshold value. A straight line driving condition is verified through vehicle sensors and/or GPS, drive torque control is performed such that the steering load is kept below the predetermined threshold value. The steering pull compensation method may be disabled by a vehicle operator and is disabled in the absence of a verified straight line driving condition.
US08437911B2
A ride height control system and method may be used to control load distribution at wheel locations in a vehicle suspension system at target ride height. Load distribution may be controlled by adjusting the forces applied by the suspension system at respective wheel locations while maintaining a target ride height. In an exemplary air spring suspension system or hydropneumatic suspension system, the applied forces may be adjusted by adjusting the pressure in the suspension system at the respective wheel locations. The ride height control system and method may determine and establish balanced target ride height forces (e.g., planar forces) to be applied at the wheel locations of the vehicle to prevent a cross-jacking condition.
US08437890B2
Various types and levels of operator assistance are performed within a unified, configurable framework. A model of the device with a model of the environment and the current state of the device and the environment are used to iteratively generate a sequence of optimal device control inputs that, when applied to a model of the device, generate an optimal device trajectory through a constraint-bounded corridor or region within the state space. This optimal trajectory and the sequence of device control inputs that generates it is used to generate a threat assessment metric. An appropriate type and level of operator assistance is generated based on this threat assessment. Operator assistance modes include warnings, decision support, operator feedback, vehicle stability control, and autonomous or semi-autonomous hazard avoidance. The responses generated by each assistance mode are mutually consistent because they are generated using the same optimal trajectory.
