US08710032B2

Compounds and related methods as can be used for selective mevalonate pathway inhibitors.
US08710030B2

The present invention relates to phosphonate compounds, compositions containing them, processes for obtaining them, and their use for treating a variety of medical disorders, e.g., osteoporosis and other disorders of bone metabolism, cancer, viral infections, and the like.
US08710028B2

A powder composition for intranasal delivery includes a benzodiazepine drug and chitosan, a salt of chitosan, a derivative of chitosan or a salt of a derivative of chitosan.
US08710027B2

The method of using nutritional compounds including Dihydroquercetin (taxifolin), Arabinogalactan and Arabinogalactan combined with Dihydroquercetin (taxifolin) to reduce and control cardiometabolic risk factors, associated with metabolic syndrome and hypercholesterolemia in a mammal, specifically a human, resulting in the enhancement of metabolism, reduced control levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, reduced oxidative damage in humans and other health benefits.
US08710022B2

The present inventors revealed a TTF-1-specific oncogenic process by elucidating the molecular mechanism regulated by the master regulatory factor TTF-1. The present inventors focused on the elucidation of the essence of the lineage-specific survival signal which is a novel canceration signal. Thus, the present inventors found that the expression of ROR1, which is a receptor tyrosine kinase, is induced by the master regulatory factor TTF-1, and demonstrated the presence of a characteristic canceration signal transduction system.
US08710016B2

In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for inducing utrophin expression in muscle with an ActRIIB protein as therapy for muscular dystrophy. The present invention also provides methods of screening compounds that modulate activity of an ActRIIB protein and/or an ActRIIB ligand.
US08710010B2

Peptides with general formula (I): R1-AA1-AA2-AA3-AA4-R2 its stereoisomers, mixtures thereof, and its cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable saits, a method of preparation, cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use for the treatment and/or care of conditions, disorders and/or pathologies of the skin, mucous membranes, scalp and/or hair.
US08709999B2

Provided herein are compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and combination therapies for treatment of hepatitis C.
US08709996B2

The present invention provides a solid composition for oral administration comprising: (i) a drug compound; (ii) chitosan or a derivative thereof or a salt of chitosan or salt of a derivative of chitosan; and (iii) an organic acid. Preferably the drug compound is a polar molecule having a molecular weight of 1 KDa or less, a peptide, a protein or a polysaccharide. The compositions of the invention provide enhance absorption of the drug compound.
US08709995B2

The invention provides compositions and methods related to human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTRT), the catalytic protein subunit of human telomerase. The polynucleotides and polypeptides of the invention are useful for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of human diseases, for changing the proliferative capacity of cells and organisms, and for identification and screening of compounds and treatments useful for treatment of diseases such as cancers.
US08709986B2

A lubricating composition comprising an oil of lubricating viscosity, at least 25 parts per million by weight of titanium in the form of an oil-soluble titanium-containing material, and at least 70 parts per million boron in the form of a soluble boron compound such as a borate ester provides beneficial effects on properties such as deposit control, oxidation, and filterability in engine oils and lubrication of engines.
US08709984B2

A lubricating oil composition is disclosed which comprises (a) a major amount of an oil of lubricating viscosity; (b) one or more non-halogen-containing oil-soluble titanium complexes comprising at least one ligand comprising an anion of a carboxylic acid; (c) one or more dispersants; and (d) one or more detergents, wherein the lubricating oil composition is free of any zinc dialkyldithiophosphate.
US08709981B2

The present invention concerns novel isolated fluorescent proteins, variants thereof, and polynucleotides encoding the same. Methods for making and using the polypeptides and polynucleotides are also provided. For example, methods to detect protein-protein interactions, to develop novel fluorescent reagents, to monitor cellular events, as well as cell-based methods for screening for kinase or phosphatase inhibitors, are set forth. Kits to carry out the methods of the invention are also taught.
US08709980B2

Aspects of the invention provide compositions and methods for displaying engineered polypeptides on a cell surface. According to aspects of the invention, immobilized polypeptides can be screened to identify one or more variants having one or more functional or structural properties of interest. Aspects of the invention provide composition and methods for producing engineered protein or protein variants having a functional or a structural property of interest.
US08709975B2

The present invention relates to aqueous flowable concentrate compositions of a microencapsulated dinitroanline herbicide, in particular pendimethalin, which are flowable and have improved storage stability. The compositions contain: i. 50 to 400 g/l of a dinitroaniline herbicide in the form of microcapsules comprising a core material containing the dinitroaniline herbicide, in particular pendimethalin, and a polymeric wall material, the microcapsules being dispersed in an aqueous phase; ii. 100 to 500 g/l of a glyphosate salt which is dissolved in the aqueous phase and iii. at least one anionic surface-active substance.
US08709953B2

Ultrathin material layers are plasma etched with an etch system configured for cryogenic cooling of a substrate to reduce the diffusion coefficients of foreign and intrinsic stop layer atoms (e.g., of the bombarded crystal lattice), and further configured for plasma pulsing to reduce the energy of the impinging ions with cryogenic wafer temperatures. Substrate temperatures of −50° C. or more are employed to reduce the susceptibility of a stop layer material to damage associated with ion impact. Ion energy is reduced to below the threshold where stop layer lattice atoms are displaced or ions are implanted into the bulk lattice. In embodiments, a plasma of an etchant gas having ion energies less than 10 eV are achieved through plasma pulsing, which when directed at the low temperature substrate may controllably etch ultra-thin material layers.
US08709950B2

An SiC substrate includes the steps of preparing a base substrate having a main surface and made of SiC, washing the main surface using a first alkaline solution, and washing the main surface using a second alkaline solution after the step of washing with the first alkaline solution. The SiC substrate has the main surface, and an average of residues on the main surface are equal to or larger than 0.2 and smaller than 200 in number.
US08709946B2

A method for forming contact holes includes following steps. A substrate including a dense region and an isolation region is provided. A material layer is formed on the substrate. Sacrificed patterns are formed on the material layer in the dense region, wherein there is a first opening between the two adjacent sacrificed patterns. A spacer is formed on each of two sides of each of the sacrificed patterns, wherein the spacers are separated from each other. The sacrificed patterns are removed to form a second opening between two adjacent spacers. A planar layer is formed to fill up the second openings. A first slit is formed in the planar layer, wherein the first slit exposes a portion of the material layer under the second openings. The portion of the material layer exposed by the first slit is removed to form third openings in the material layer.
US08709926B2

In order to realize a plasma doping method capable of carrying out a stable low-density doping, exhaustion is carried out with a pump while introducing a predetermined gas into a vacuum chamber from a gas supplying apparatus, the pressure of the vacuum chamber is held at a predetermined pressure and a high frequency power is supplied to a coil from a high frequency power source. After the generation of plasma in the vacuum chamber, the pressure of the vacuum chamber is lowered, and the low-density plasma doping is performed to a substrate placed on a substrate electrode. Moreover, the pressure of the vacuum chamber is gradually lowered, and the high frequency power is gradually increased, thereby the low-density plasma doping is carried out to the substrate placed on the substrate electrode. Furthermore, a forward power Pf and a reflected power Pr of the high frequency power supplied to the substrate electrode are sampled at a high speed, and when a value of which the power difference Pf-Pr is integrated with respect to time reaches a predetermined value, the supply of the high frequency power is suspended.
US08709913B2

Disclosed are a microelectronic assembly of two elements and a method of forming same. A microelectronic element includes a major surface, and a dielectric layer and at least one bond pad exposed at the major surface. The microelectronic element may contain a plurality of active circuit elements. A first metal layer is deposited overlying the at least one bond pad and the dielectric layer. A second element having a second metal layer deposited thereon is provided, and the first metal layer is joined with the second metal layer. The assembly may be severed along dicing lanes into individual units each including a chip.
US08709911B2

The present invention is a method for producing an SOI substrate including the steps of: preparing a bond wafer and a base wafer which are composed of single crystal silicon wafers; forming an oxide film on a surface of at least one of the bond wafer and the base wafer so that a thickness of a buried oxide film after bonding becomes 3 μm or more; bonding the bond wafer and the base wafer via the oxide film; performing a low-temperature heat treatment at a temperature of 400° C. or more and 1000° C. or less to the bonded substrate; thinning the bond wafer to be an SOI layer; and increasing bonding strength by performing a high-temperature heat treatment at a temperature exceeding 1000° C. Thus, a method for producing an SOI substrate by which generation of slip dislocations is suppressed and an SOI substrate having a high-quality SOI layer can be obtained, for producing a SOI layer in which the thickness of a buried oxide film is thick as 3 μm or more by a bonding method, etc. are provided.
US08709903B2

Disclosed is semiconductor structure with an insulator layer on a semiconductor substrate and a device layer is on the insulator layer. The substrate is doped with a relatively low dose of a dopant having a given conductivity type such that it has a relatively high resistivity. Additionally, a portion of the semiconductor substrate immediately adjacent to the insulator layer can be doped with a slightly higher dose of the same dopant, a different dopant having the same conductivity type or a combination thereof. Optionally, micro-cavities are created within this same portion so as to balance out any increase in conductivity due to increased doping with a corresponding increase in resistivity. Increasing the dopant concentration at the semiconductor substrate-insulator layer interface raises the threshold voltage (Vt) of any resulting parasitic capacitors and, thereby reduces harmonic behavior. Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a method for forming such a semiconductor structure.
US08709898B2

A method includes: etching a silicon substrate except for a silicon substrate portion on which a channel region is to be formed to form first and second trenches respectively at a first side and a second side of the silicon substrate portion; filling the first and second trenches by epitaxially growing a semiconductor layer having etching selectivity against silicon and further a silicon layer; removing the semiconductor layer selectivity by a selective etching process to form voids underneath the silicon layer respectively at the first side and the second side of the substrate portion; burying the voids at least partially with a buried insulation film; forming a gate insulation film and a gate electrode on the silicon substrate portion; and forming a source region in the silicon layer at the first side of the silicon substrate portion and a drain region at the second side of the silicon substrate portion.
US08709894B2

A 3D structured nonvolatile semiconductor memory devices and methods for manufacturing are disclosed. One such device includes an n+ region at a source/drain region; a p+ region at the source/drain region; and a diffusion barrier material between the n+ region and the p+ region. The n+ region is substantially isolated from the p+ region.
US08709892B2

A method for fabricating a flash memory device where the flash memory device includes a substantially uniform size and spatial distribution of nanoparticles on a tunnel oxide layer to form a floating gate. The flash memory device may be fabricated by defining active areas in a substrate and forming an oxide layer on the substrate. A self-assembled protein lattice may be formed on top of the oxide layer where the self-assembled protein lattice includes a plurality of molecular chaperones. The cavities of the chaperones may provide confined spaces where nanocrystals can be trapped thereby forming an ordered nanocrystal lattice. A substantially uniform distribution of nanocrystals may be formed on the oxide layer upon removal of the self-assembled protein lattice such as through high temperature annealing.
US08709880B2

A method of manufacturing semiconductor devices: providing a first device including a first die and second die, where the first die is diced from a first wafer, the second die is diced from a second wafer, the first die is connected to the second die using at least one through-silicon-via; providing a second device including a third die and fourth die, where the third die is diced from a third wafer, the fourth die is diced from a fourth wafer, the third die is connected to the fourth die using at least one through-silicon-via; where the first die includes a first functionality and the third die includes a second functionality, the first functionality is different than the second functionality, a majority of the masks used for processing the first wafer and the third wafer are the same; and the second die size is substantially different than the fourth die size.
US08709872B2

An integrated circuit includes a substrate and a first integrated circuit die having a first circuit coupled to the substrate via a first bonding wire, the first circuit having a first intra-chip interface. A second integrated circuit die has a second circuit coupled to the substrate via a second bonding wire, the second circuit having a second intra-chip interface, the second bonding wire electrically isolated from the first bonding wire. The first circuit communicates with the second circuit via the first intra-chip interface and the second intra-chip interface, and wherein the first intra-chip interface and the second intra-chip interface communicate via a first electromagnetic coupling between the first bonding wire and the second bonding wire.
US08709867B2

A dual-leadframe multi-chip package comprises a first leadframe with a first die pad, and a second leadframe with a second die pad; a first chip mounted on the first die pad functioning as a high-side MOSFET and second chip mounted on the second die pad functioning as a low-side MOSFET. The package may further comprises a bypass capacity configured as a third chip mounted on the first die pad or integrated with the first chip. The package may further comprise a three-dimensional connecting plate formed as an integrated structure as the second die pad for electrically connecting a top contact area of the first chip to a bottom contact area of the second chip. A top connecting plate connects a top contact area of the second chip and a top contact area of the third chip to an outer pin of the first leadframe.
US08709862B2

Al pastes with additives of Co, Sr, V, compounds thereof and combinations thereof improve both the physical integrity of a back contact of a silicon solar cell as well as the electrical performance of a cell with such a contact.
US08709852B2

An image sensor comprises a substrate of a first conductivity type. First and second pixels are arrayed over the substrate. A potential barrier is formed in a region of the substrate corresponding to the first pixel but not in a region of the substrate corresponding to the second pixel. The second pixel is responsive to a color having a wavelength longer than the color to which the first pixel is responsive. The potential barrier is doped with dopants by a high energy ion implantation dopants or by an ion implantation or diffusion during epitaxial growth of the P-type epitaxial layer.
US08709850B2

The invention relates to a method for production of at least one thermoelectric apparatus with the steps of: preparation of a first wafer (1) which is formed from a thermoelectric material of a first conductivity type; preparation of a second wafer which is formed from a thermoelectric material of a second conductivity type; structuring of the first wafer (1) so that a group of first thermoelectric structures (7) is produced; structuring of the second wafer so that a group of second thermoelectric structures is produced; and linking of the first to the second wafer in such a manner that the first and the second thermoelectric structures are electrically connected together and thus form the thermoelectric apparatus. According to the invention, before the structuring of the first wafer (1), a first contact material (3) is deposited on the first wafer (1) and/or before the structuring of the second wafer, a second contact material is deposited onto the second wafer.
US08709844B2

A light emitting diode (LED) package and a method of manufacturing a LED package is provided. The LED package includes a case having first and second lead frames disposed through the case; an LED chip disposed on the case, the LED chip having first and second electrodes directly connected to the first and second lead frames through a eutectic bond, respectively; and a lens disposed over the case covering the LED chip.
US08709836B2

An object is to provide a method for manufacturing a thin film transistor and a display device with reduced number of masks, in which adverse effects of optical current are suppressed. A manufacturing method comprises forming a stack including, from bottom to top, a light-blocking film, a base film, a first conductive film, a first insulating film, a semiconductor film, an impurity semiconductor film, and a second conductive film; performing first etching on the whole thickness of the stack using a first resist mask formed over it; forming a gate electrode layer by side etching the first conductive film in a second etching; forming a second resist mask over the stack; and performing third etching down to the semiconductor film, and partially etching it, using the second resist mask to form a source and drain electrode layer, a source and drain region, and a semiconductor layer.
US08709831B2

In one embodiment, a method of forming a semiconductor device includes forming a first inductor coil within and/or over a substrate. The first inductor coil is formed adjacent a top side of the substrate. First trenches are formed within the substrate adjacent the first inductor coil. The first trenches are filled at least partially with a magnetic fill material. At least a first portion of the substrate underlying the first inductor coil is thinned. A backside magnetic layer is formed under the first portion of the substrate. The backside magnetic layer and the magnetic fill material form at least a part of a magnetic core region of the first inductor coil.
US08709830B2

The present invention provides methods, compositions, and kits useful in preparing labeled molecules, which are useful in the detection of binding partners.
US08709827B2

The invention provides polypeptide microparticles and methods for the preparation thereof using a nucleating agent.
US08709818B2

The invention provides methods of preparation of lipoproteins from a biological sample, including HDL, LDL, Lp(a), IDL, and VLDL, for diagnostic purposes utilizing differential charged particle mobility analysis methods. Further provided are methods for analyzing the size distribution of lipoproteins by differential charged particle mobility, which lipoproteins are prepared by methods of the invention. Further provided are methods for assessing lipid-related health risk, cardiovascular condition, risk of cardiovascular disease, and responsiveness to a therapeutic intervention, which methods utilize lipoprotein size distributions determined by methods of the invention.
US08709817B2

A flow cytometry system and method for sorting a mixture of particles, such as a fluid switching sorting system for sorting selected particles which includes a control having a microprocessor programmed with instructions for implementing a control strategy for controlling the fluid delivery to the system to vary the rate at which fluid is delivered as a function of the purity or yield of a sub-population of particles.
US08709815B2

Methods and devices are disclosed providing techniques for measuring the amount of biodiesel in a fuel sample. The methods may be used in the field without the use of laboratory equipment. The biodiesel in the sample is converted to the corresponding free acid which can be isolated and quantified to provide information regarding the amount of biodiesel in the original sample.
US08709804B2

The instrumentation and methods described herein are based on imaging and measuring single cell dose response by fluorescent ion imaging that records live cell responses to drug doses. Dose response curves and other pharmacological parameters can be computed by imaging and measuring oscillation changes for each drug dose and each cell. The instrumentation and methods described herein provide a means of measuring statistical variability of cell populations for improved screening and development methods for drugs.
US08709803B2

The present invention relates to a system for cell transport Said system allows the transport of cells, assuring their integrity and viability during the entire transport process. It consists of a system suitable for a wide variety of formats which allows a broad range of technical applications of the system The system of the invention allows providing ready-to-use cells, without the cells having to be manipulated before they are used by technical experts in cell biology The invention particularly relates to an agarose plus agarase mixture covering or enveloping, depending on the format of the selected transport system, the cell culture, protecting it during the transport process, as well as to the methodology of cell recovery of the cells transported in the system.
US08709798B2

The present invention relates to a nucleic acid containing at least one homing endonuclease site (HE) and at least one restriction enzyme site (X) wherein the HE and X sites are selected such that HE and X result in compatible cohesive ends when cut by the homing endonuclease and restriction enzyme, respectively, and the ligation product of HE and X cohesive ends can neither be cleaved by the homing endonuclease nor by the restriction enzyme. Further subject-matter of the present invention relates to a vector comprising the nucleic acid of the present invention, host cells containing the nucleic acid and/or the vector, a kit for cloning and/or expression of multiprotein complexes making use of the vector and the host cells, a method for producing a vector containing multiple expression cassettes, and a method for producing multiprotein complexes. The invention also relates to a methods of assembling multiple single vectors (“vector entities”) into fusion vectors and to method of disassembling a fusion vector containing multiple of such vector entities into single vectors. The invention is also directed to fusion vectors containing multiple vector entities.
US08709793B2

A bioreactor device, and a method and system for fabricating tissues and growing cells and tissues in the bioreactor device, accommodates less than about 1 mL (or less than about 200 μL) of local medium volume but sample sizes of about 100 μL or greater. The bioreactor device includes a bioreactor chamber for containing a sample, where sample growth in response to mechanical, electrical, and biofactor stimulation is monitored through one or more optical ports. Embedded sensors are provided for measuring fluid pressure, pH, temperature, and oxygen tension. The bioreactor device can receive different types of mechanical loadings, including fluid shear, hydrostatic pressure, matrix compression, and clinorotation.
US08709789B2

A method is provided for detecting multiple analytes via their interactions with reagents. The analytes are immobilized on an analyte support and are divided into subdivisions by a blotting apparatus. Reagents are applied, each to a specific subdivision of the analyte support and binds to the analytes there.
US08709783B2

This invention relates to a fruit-based food product such as beverages or fruit purees, comprising a concentration of live and stable probiotics, which is preferably greater than 108 CFU/ml, a high fruit content, which is preferably greater than 50%, and a low organic acid content, and wherein the production of off-tastes is reduced or diminished in relation to the initial fruit matrix, as well as method for preparing a food product such as this.
US08709766B2

The present disclosure is directed to novel polynucleotide sequences for use in Nannochloropsis gaditana. The novel polynucleotide sequences include control sequences and coding sequences. Also disclosed are novel gene expression constructs wherein N. gaditana promoters/control regions are operatively linked to N. gaditana or non-N. gaditana coding sequences. These novel polynucleotide sequences and expression constructs can be introduced into N. gaditana and can recombine into the N. gaditana genome. Expression from these polynucleotide sequences and expression constructs can enhance N. gaditana biomass and/or lipid biosynthesis. Also disclosed are methods for modifying N. gaditana, for example by stably transforming N. gaditana with nucleic acid sequences, growing the modified N. gaditana, and obtaining biomass and biofuels from the modified N. gaditana.
US08709761B2

Saccharification of polysaccharides of plants is provided, where release of fermentable sugars from cellulose is obtained by adding plant tissue composition. Production of glucose is obtained without the need to add additional β-glucosidase. Adding plant tissue composition to a process using a cellulose degrading composition to degrade cellulose results in an increase in the production of fermentable sugars compared to a process in which plant tissue composition is not added. Using plant tissue composition in a process using a cellulose degrading enzyme composition to degrade cellulose results in decrease in the amount of cellulose degrading enzyme composition or exogenously applied cellulase required to produce fermentable sugars.
US08709754B2

The embodiments of the present invention are directed to discrete, cis-acting regulatory elements that include a barrier element, an insulating element, a silencing element, and matrix attachment regions (“MARs”). Additional embodiments of the present invention are directed to nucleic acid molecules that are useful for facilitating stable transgene expression within a chromatin environment. Additional embodiments of the present invention are directed to recombinant expression vectors including nucleic acid molecules of the present invention that can be incorporated into artificial chromosomes, eukaryotic cell-lines, non-human transgenic animals, and transgenic plants, to improve recombinant protein production in a broad range of eukaryotic hosts, and pharmaceutical compositions including nucleic acid molecules of the present invention that are also useful for gene therapy in the treatment of various genetic diseases.
US08709753B2

This invention is metabolically engineer bacterial strains that provide increased intracellular NADPH availability for the purpose of increasing the yield and productivity of NADPH-dependent compounds. In the invention, native NAD-dependent GAPDH is replaced with NADP-dependent GAPDH plus overexpressed NADK. Uses for the bacteria are also provided.
US08709744B2

The present invention provides cellular screening substrata which can be formed in simple processing steps. The cellular screening substrata can be formed which are characterized in that plural cellular screening substances are positioned and immobilized at predetermined positions on a base by micro-droplet discharging means, and plural areas having different cellular screening functions are formed thereon.
US08709741B2

The present disclosure provides in vitro methods of diagnosing a Plasmodium infection in a subject. The methods include measuring the serum concentration of at least one secreted phospholipase A2 selected from the group consisting of GIIF, GV and GX sPLA2s, in a blood sample from the subject. The disclosure also relates to a kit for carrying out the disclosed methods and pharmaceutical compositions comprising a recombinant mammalian GIIF, GV or GX sPLA2, or a combination thereof.
US08709738B2

Methods are disclosed for determining whether organ toxicity, particularly cardiotoxicity, will occur in a patient selected for treatment with various kinase inhibitors, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, more particularly erbB inhibitors such as Herceptin. In addition, methods are disclosed for determining whether a potential drug is likely to produce a cardiotoxic effect. The methods involve analyzing lipid levels or the expression fatty acid oxidation enzymes, pAMP activated protein kinase, glucose uptake, to determine whether a fatty acid oxidation disorder is present. The identification of a fatty acid oxidation disorder can be used as a predictor of toxicity, especially cardiac toxicity, and as an indication that organ function should be carefully monitored if a drug such as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor is administered. Methods are also disclosed for protecting organs from metabolic stress and for the treatment of cells, such as adipocytes, to reduce their lipid content.
US08709736B2

The present invention relates to the use of TFF3 in the diagnosis and detection of Barrett's esophagus using non-invasive, non-endoscopic methods.
US08709733B2

The invention provides an ELISA assay for the determination of serum mast cell β-tryptase levels using rabbit anti-tryptase as the capture antibody and alkaline phosphatase conjugated G3 as the detecting antibody. Luminescent substrate CPSD was used to enhance the assay sensitivity. Also provided are methods for aiding in the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome by detecting the serum level of β-tryptase, histamine and/or prostaglandin E2.
US08709731B2

Described herein are antibodies and antibody fragments capable of treating or preventing cancers associated with the over-expression and/or up-regulation of DKK1. Also disclosed are methods of treating or preventing cancer using the antibody and methods and kits utilized to diagnosing cancer. The herein described products and methods find utility in the context of a variety of cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, bile duct cancer, lung cancer and esophageal cancer.
US08709730B2

Viruses having an impaired ability to deISGylate ISG15 conjugates, in particular, viral mutants comprising a mutation in the viral genome that reduces or eliminates the ability of the viral OTU domain-containing protein encoded by the viral genome to deISGylate ISG15 conjugates and/or deubiquitinate ubiquitinated proteins and/or deNeddylate Neddylated proteins are disclosed. Such viral mutants may be used in the formulation of immunogenic compositions for inducing an immune response and preventing, managing and/or treating a viral infection. Also disclosed are methods for identifying anti-viral compounds, in particular, methods of identifying compounds that reduce or inhibit the deISGylation activity and/or deubiquitination and/or deNeddylation activity of a viral OTU domain-containing protein. The compounds identified using such methods may be used as antiviral agents for the prevention, treatment and/or management of viral infections.
US08709729B2

A method of making an array of nucleic acid colonies, including the steps of (a) providing a substrate having a patterned surface of features, wherein the features are spatially organized in a repeating pattern on the surface of the substrate; (b) contacting the substrate with a solution of different target nucleic acids to seed no more than a subset of the features that contact the solution; (c) amplifying the nucleic acids on the subset of features; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) to increase the number of features that are seeded with a nucleic acid, thereby making an array of nucleic acid colonies.
US08709727B2

A novel detection or quantifying method for biological entities or molecules such as, but not limited to, DNA, microorganisms and pathogens, proteins and antibodies, that by themselves are target molecules or from which target molecules are extracted, comprises the steps of i) forming target molecule-dependent volume-amplified entities, ii) allowing magnetic nanoparticles to bind to said volume-amplified entities, and iii) measuring changes in dynamic magnetic response of the magnetic nanoparticles caused by the increase in hydrodynamic volume of said magnetic nanoparticles.
US08709726B2

Provided herein are compositions, processes and kits for noninvasive, early determination of fetal sex from, and/or amount of fetal nucleic acid in, an extracellular nucleic acid sample from a pregnant female. Such compositions, processes and kits are useful for detection of low genomic copy numbers of male fetal nucleic acid in a high copy number background of female nucleic acid, thereby determining the sex of a fetus and/or amount of fetal nucleic acid in a sample.
US08709724B2

A method of amplifying a template DNA molecule comprising incubating the template DNA molecule in a reaction mixture comprising a DNA polymerase and at least one accessory protein at a constant temperature to produce amplified product, wherein production of amplified product does not require exogenously-added oligonucleotide primers and the template DNA molecule does not have have terminal protein covalently bound to either 5′ end.
US08709722B2

There is provided a method for detecting binding of a DNA-binding protein to a target recognition sequence. The method comprises mixing in a reaction buffer a first set of metal nanoparticles, a second set of metal nanoparticles and a DNA-binding protein to form a mixture, and detecting the aggregation state of the mixture of metal nanoparticles. Each set of metal nanoparticles has a conjugated double-stranded DNA molecule having a single-stranded overhang at one end. The single-stranded overhangs of each set of DNA-conjugated metal nanoparticles are complementary to each other such that annealing of the complementary overhangs results in formation of the target recognition sequence that specifically binds the DNA-binding protein. The reaction buffer comprises an ionic species in a concentration sufficient to result in aggregation of the metal nanoparticles upon annealing of the first and second single-stranded overhang.
US08709713B2

The document provides nucleic acids, polypeptides, and viruses containing nucleic acids and/or polypeptides. The document also provides methods for using viruses to treat cancer patients. Specifically, the document provides nucleic acid molecules encoding viral hemagglutinin (H) polypeptides, viral H polypeptides, and viruses containing nucleic acids and/or H polypeptides. Such viruses are useful for vaccinations and for treating cancer patients as the viruses are not shed.
US08709707B2

The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.
US08709698B2

A radical polymerization initiator represented by the following formula (G) in the formula (G), R71 and R72 are each a hydrocarbon group of 3 to 6 carbon atoms which may contain nitrogen atom; R73 and R74 are each a hydrogen atom or an acid-dissociating, dissolution-suppressing group; and at least one of R73 and R74 is an acid-dissociating, dissolution-suppressing group represented by the following formula (R78); and wherein R77 is a hydrocarbon group of 1 to 26 carbon atoms which may contain hetero atoms.
US08709693B2

A polyester resin for a toner is a polycondensate of a dicarboxylic acid component and an alcohol component including rosin diol that is represented by the following formula (1), and has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of from 40000 to 150000, and a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of from 12 to 25: wherein, R1 and R2 each independently represents hydrogen or a methyl group; L1, L2, and L3 each independently represents a divalent linking group selected from a group consisting of a carbonyl group, a carboxyl group, an ether group, a sulfonyl group, a chain-like alkylene group which may have a substituent, a cyclic alkylene group which may have a substituent, an arylene group which may have a substituent, and combinations thereof, and L1 and L2 or L1 and L3 may form a ring; and A1 and A2 represent a rosin ester group.
US08709684B2

Some aspects of the present disclosure provide for a method of automatically balancing mask misalignment for multiple patterning layers to minimize the consequences of mask misalignment. In some embodiments, the method defines a routing grid for one or more double patterning layers within an IC layout. The routing grid has a plurality of vertical grid lines extending along a first direction and a plurality of horizontal grid lines extending along a second, orthogonal direction. Alternating lines of the routing grid in a given direction (e.g., the horizontal and vertical direction) are assigned different colors. Shapes on the double patterning layers are then routed along the routing grid in a manner that alternates between different colored grid lines. By routing in such a manner, variations in capacitive coupling caused by mask misalignment are reduced.
US08709680B2

A cell unit of a mixed reactant fuel cell comprises a multiphase mixed reactant fluid distributor, an anode and cathode in fluid and electronic communication with the distributor, and a separator positioned relative to one of the anode and the cathode to provide electronic insulation and ionic communication between the cell unit and another adjacent cell unit. The distributor is electronically conductive and the reactant fluid which flows through the distributor has fuel and oxidant each in separate fluid phases, wherein at least one of the fuel and oxidant fluid phases is a liquid. The capillary pressure at the anode is selected to produce a higher hold up of the fuel fluid phase than the oxidant fluid phase in the pores of the anode when the mixed reactant fluid flows through the distributor thereby suppressing transfer of oxidant to the anode from the distributor, or the capillary pressure at the cathode is selected to produce a higher hold up of the oxidant fluid phase than the fuel fluid phase in the pores of the cathode when the mixed reactant fluid flows through the distributor, thereby suppressing transfer of fuel to the cathode from the distributor; or both. The distributor extends between respective superficial electrode surfaces of the anode and cathode such that the bulk mixed reactant fluid flows through the distributor and by the superficial electrode surfaces under conditions that produce a positive net potential of the fuel cell under load.
US08709671B2

Disclosed is a fuel cell including, a stack having fuel channels through which fuel flows and air channels through which air flows, the fuel channels and air channels being located at both sides of a reaction film, an actuator disposed to be involved in the air channels, the actuator allowing external air of the stack to affect the air channels, and a skirt extending from the stack with communicating with the air channels.
US08709669B2

The present invention relates to a fuel cell system for vehicles and a method for controlling the same which stably maintains an output of a fuel cell by precisely estimating a recirculated hydrogen amount to a stack. A fuel cell system according to the present invention may include: a stack comprising a plurality of unit cells for generating electrical energy by electrochemical reaction of a fuel and an oxidizing agent; a blower for recirculating a gas exhausted from the stack so as to supply the gas back to the stack; an ejector for recirculating the gas exhausted from the stack, receiving hydrogen so as to mix the hydrogen to the recirculated gas, and supplying the mixture to the stack; a sensor module for detecting a driving condition of the vehicle; and a control portion for controlling operations of the blower and the ejector by using the driving condition of the vehicle and performance maps of the blower and the ejector.
US08709658B2

According to one embodiment, a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery includes a positive electrode which inserts and extracts lithium, a negative electrode containing a negative electrode material including a porous conductive particle and an active material formed on the surface and/or within the pores of the porous conductive particle and composed of a lithium titanium complex oxide having at least one structure selected from the group consisting of nanotubes and nanowires, the lithium titanium complex oxide being expressed by a general formula LixTiO2 (where 0≦x<1), and a non-aqueous electrolyte.
US08709646B2

In an alkaline battery in which a positive electrode 2 made of manganese dioxide and a negative electrode 3 are contained in a cylindrical battery case 1 having a closed bottom with a separator 4 interposed between the positive and negative electrodes 2 and 3, and an opening 1b of the battery case 1 is sealed via a sealing plate with a gasket 5 interposed between the battery case 1 and the sealing plate, a thickness of a body 1a of the battery case 1 is in a range of 0.10-0.17 mm, and a half-width of a 110 plane of the manganese dioxide measured by powder X-ray diffraction is in a range of 2.30-2.70 degrees.
US08709637B2

An electrode assembly for a secondary battery and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. An electrode assembly comprises: a plurality of separator members formed by winding a central separator member, wherein the central separator member is a predeterminated portion of the separator; and a plurality of electrode members positioned between each of the separator members; wherein the separator including the plurality of separator members and the central separator member is one of the plurality of separator members, and wherein both opposite ends of the central separator member is curved in opposite directions, respectively.
US08709635B1

The present invention provides a galvanic cell having an aluminum anode and a cathode compartment design suitable for carrying out the aqueous electrochemical reaction between solid aluminum metal and aqueous peroxide ions. The galvanic cell is activated when water, aqueous hydroxide solution, or an aqueous salt solution is added to the cell. This reaction releases a significant amount of electrochemical energy from a small size (mass or volume) cell. This cell reaction and design leads to an improvement in energy released over state-of-the-art aluminum/hydrogen peroxide galvanic cells.
US08709626B2

Disclosed is an apparatus for preventing overcharging of a battery. More specifically, a cell module in which cells are configured to be stacked and a plurality of cells are connected through electrode terminals and a fixing rod disposed between the cells is provided. A pressure plate, which is installed on the fixing rod to provide the appropriate reactive force, and an elastic member disposed on the side of the second end of the pressure plate is installed to provide elastic force to the pressure plate. The pressure plate is see-sawingly-rotated when the cell is expanded over a predetermined pressure accordingly to cut-off the power to the battery when the pressure within the battery exceeds the predetermined threshold.
US08709622B2

A protective circuit board and a battery pack using the protective circuit board broadens a mount region of a device and improves operability and processibility thereof. The battery pack comprises: a bare cell including a cap plate and an electrode terminal; and a protective circuit board positioned at the outside of the bare cell and formed of a flexible printed circuit board where a protection module, a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, and first and second power terminals are mounted. Accordingly, a space for mounting a number of protection devices and a space for forming a high current pattern are secured, and the work of mounting the protection devices and forming the high current pattern are easily performed. Furthermore, since any special structure for compensating a difference in the height of a protection device and an electrode terminal is not needed, the operability and processibility increase.
US08709621B2

A rechargeable battery includes a current interruption device that is directly coupled to the cap plate of the bare cell.
US08709614B2

Disclosed are an organic electroluminescent device (organic EL device) that is improved in luminous efficiency and fully assured of driving stability and has a simple structure and an organic metal complex suitable therefor. The organic metal complex is represented by the following general formula (I) wherein Ar1 denotes an aromatic hydrocarbon group or a heteroaromatic group and may have substituents, Ar2 and Ar3 respectively denote an aromatic hydrocarbon group or a heteroaromatic group and may have substituents, M denotes a trivalent metal, and L denotes an arylate ligand containing a hetero ring having at least one nitrogen atom capable of coordinating M. This organic metal complex, along with a phosphorescent dopant, is suitable for a material constituting the light-emitting layer of an organic EL device.
US08709607B2

The present invention provides a coating composition, a process for producing the same, one or more coating layers derived therefrom, and articles comprising one or more such coating layers. The coating composition according to the present invention comprises: (a) from 10 to 90 percent by weight of an aqueous, high-solid, solvent-free alkyd dispersion comprising: (i) from 40 to 70 percent by weight of one or more alkyds based on the total weight of the dispersion, wherein each said one or more alkyds has an acid value of less than 20 and a molecular weight (Mn) in the range of greater than 1000 Dalton; (ii) from less than 10 percent by weight of one or more surfactants, based on the total weight of the dispersion; and (iii) from 30 to 55 percent by weight of water, based on the total weight of the dispersion; wherein said aqueous, high-solid, solvent-free alkyd dispersion has an average particle size diameter in the range of from 0.05 to 5 μm; (b) from 10 to 90 one or more second dispersions, one or more second emulsions, or combinations thereof; wherein said coating composition has a solid content of in the range of from 25 to 65 percent by weight of solid content, based on the total weight of the coating composition, and the coating composition has a pH in the range of from 7 to 11, and wherein the coating composition has a volume average particle size in the range of from 0.03 to 5 μm, and wherein the coating composition has a viscosity in the range of from 100 to 10,000 cP.
US08709602B2

Tin powder is heated in a flowing stream of an inert gas, such as argon, containing a small concentration of carbon-containing gas, at a temperature to produce metal vapor. The tin deposits as liquid on a substrate, and reacts with the carbon-containing gas to form carbon nanotubes in the liquid tin. Upon cooling and solidification, a composite of tin nanowires bearing coatings of carbon nanotubes is formed.
US08709598B2

A microcapsule comprising a core containing a hydrophobic liquid or wax and a polymeric shell formed from: i) 1 to 20% by weight of polymerizable silane compound, ii) 1 to 94% by weight of hydrophobic mono functional ethylenically unsaturated monomer, iii) 5 to 98% by weight of polyfunctional ethylenically unsaturated monomer, and iv) 0 to 60% by weight of other mono functional monomer(s), wherein components (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) total 100%, and in which the microcapsule also includes a hydrophilic polymer which is covalently bonded to the microcapsule. The invention includes a process for the manufacture of particles and the use of particles in articles, such as fabrics, and coating compositions, especially for textiles.
US08709596B2

Adhesive tape comprising at least one layer of an acrylate-based pressure-sensitive adhesive and a liner having a catalyzed addition crosslinking silicone coating, the silicone coating being in direct contact with the pressure-sensitive adhesive and the pressure-sensitive adhesive comprising additives that are effective as catalyst poisons.
US08709594B2

A coated article includes a substrate, a bonding layer formed on the substrate, an anti-corrosion layer formed on the bonding layer. The substrate is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy. The bonding layer is a silicon layer. The anti-corrosion layer is a silicon nitride layer. The coated article has improved corrosion resistance.
US08709591B2

A resin composition includes a biodegradable resin (A), a polyolefin resin (B) and a dispersing agent (C), which has a sea-isle structure in which the biodegradable resin (A) is dispersed as isles in the polyolefin resin (B) existing as a sea component wherein the average dispersed particle size of the biodegradable resin (A) is 1 nm to 1000 nm.
US08709573B2

A latex glove article with a fibrous coating bonded to the skin-contacting surface. Long length soft moisture absorbing fibers are attached to latex layer of a glove with a thin layer of polymeric latex adhesive forming a fibrous lining. The long length fibers extend or project from the polymeric latex adhesive coating. The fibers penetrate the polymeric latex adhesive layer at one end or both end of the fiber to a depth of about 60% to about 100% of the adhesive thickness, leaving a substantial portion of the fiber available for soft contact with skin and sweat absorption. Due to the substantial thickness of the fibrous lining, which is between about 4 and about 100 times the thickness of the thin layer of polymeric latex adhesive, an air gap is created between skin and the impervious latex layer establishing continual evaporation of absorbed sweat and evaporative cooling.
US08709568B2

A sheet of cellular tie strips, where each strip is composed of a series of unit cell portions connected end-to-end, is formed in a single molding process. Lateral webs join one or more strips side-by-side to form a sheet such that each strip can be readily separated by tearing, stamping, cutting, leaving only a very thin vestige which does not interfere with the tying of the strips in use.
US08709565B2

A roofing membrane assembly includes a membrane having a top surface, bottom surface, first longitudinal edge and second longitudinal edge. A first primed area is located at the top surface along the first longitudinal edge. A second primed area is located on the bottom surface along the second longitudinal edge. A tape is secured to the membrane on the first primed area. A first release liner is positioned over the tape and a second release liner positioned over the second primed area.
US08709563B2

An electrical conduit that contains a jacket that defines a hollow passageway is provided. At least a portion of the jacket is formed from a thermoplastic composition that contains a polyarylene sulfide and fire-resisting system. Due in part to the specific nature and concentration of these components, the present inventors have discovered that the resulting thermoplastic composition may have a relatively high melting temperature, such as from about 200° C. to about 500° C.
US08709562B2

Hybrid fiber constructions having reduced creep tendency. More particularly, twisted, low creep yarns formed by twisting together one or more high strength polyolefin fibers and one or more low creep reinforcing fibers.
US08709561B2

A polypropylene composition having a melt flow rate MFR2 (230° C.) measured according to according to ISO 1133 of at least 2.0 g/10 min, said polypropylene composition comprises a propylene copolymer (C-PP) and a high melt strength polypropylene (HMS-PP), wherein the propylene copolymer (C-PP) (a) has a comonomer content of equal or below 7.0 wt.-%, the comonmers are ethylene and/or at least one C4 to C12 α-olefin, and (b) fulfills the equation (I) R+4.96×C≦95.66 wherein R is the randomness [%] measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and C is the comonomer content [wt.-%] measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).
US08709556B2

A heat transfer label assembly includes a heat transfer label including ink and adhesive, and a releasable support joined to the heat transfer label. The adhesive may include at least one of a polyketone resin and a polyamide resin. The heat transfer label may be used to decorate a metal article.
US08709543B2

Thiocarbonate compounds are reacted with various polyols to introduce hydroxyl end groups thereto which can be subsequently reacted with urethane forming compounds to form various polyurethanes including block copolymers thereof.
US08709542B2

This invention relates to a method for preparing an organic film at the surface of a solid support, with a step of contacting said surface with a liquid solution including (i) at least one protic solvent, (ii) at least one adhesion primer, under non-electrochemical conditions, and allowing the formation of radical entities based on the adhesion primer. The liquid solution can also include (iii) at least one monomer different from the adhesion primer and radically polymerizable. This invention also relates to a non-electrically-conductive solid support on which an organic film according to said method is grafted, and a kit for preparing an essentially polymeric organic film at the surface of a solid support.
US08709539B2

A process and an apparatus for producing a composite material utilize a rotatable hollow body that is inclined with an upstream side being higher than a downstream side. A reaction zone is defined within an elongated chamber in the hollow body. Protrusions inwardly extend from an inner peripheral wall of the hollow body adjacent to the reaction zone. Base material is input into the chamber via a base material introduction port and a carbon source vapor is input into the chamber via a carbon source supply port. A heater heats the reaction zone to a temperature at which carbon nanotubes form on the base material from the carbon source vapor. The protrusions catch base material disposed on the inner peripheral wall of the hollow body when the hollow body rotates and then drop the base material through the reaction zone so that the base material contacts the carbon source vapor.
US08709535B2

A method of enhancing corrosion resistance of a hollow vessel. The method includes providing a hollow vessel including a wall defining a cavity, providing a coating tank filled with a liquid coating having charged coating elements, submerging the hollow vessel into the liquid coating, allowing the liquid coating to pass into the cavity through at least one aperture of the wall, coating the exterior surface of the wall with a portion of the coating elements, coating the interior surface of the wall with an additional portion of the coating elements, removing the hollow vessel from the coating tank, draining the liquid coating from the cavity, heating the hollow vessel in an oven, and curing the portion of the coating elements on the exterior surface and curing the additional portion of the coating elements on the interior surface.
US08709534B2

A formwork release composition containing formwork release oil, which contains a hydrophobic metal oxide and/or metal sulphide component is disclosed. Photocatalytically active compounds, such as particular semiconductors and in particular TiO2, are particularly suitable. The invention also concerns the use of the formwork release composition for producing exposed concrete. The concrete and mortar products thus produced are characterized by a homogeneous surface with self-cleaning properties that gives an enhanced resistance against weathering and a much longer lasting brilliance and whiteness.
US08709529B2

A light-emissive device comprising a light-emissive material provided between first and second electrodes such that charge carriers can move between the first and second electrodes and the light-emissive material, wherein the device includes a layer of a polymer blend provided between the first and second electrodes, phase separation of the polymers in the polymer blend having been induced in at least a portion of the polymer blend so as to control the propagation of light emitted by the light-emissive material in a predetermined direction.
US08709528B2

In a wafer processing method and a wafer processing system, a first property on a back side of a wafer is measured. The back side of the wafer is supported on a multi-zone chuck having a plurality of zones with controllable clamping forces. The wafer is secured to the multi-zone chuck by controlling the clamping forces in the corresponding zones in accordance with measured values of the first property in the zones.
US08709525B2

Present invention relates to a process for preparing soybean curd, including removing moisture of non-standardized soybean curd; mixing the non-standardized soybean curd of which moisture was removed with soybean milk; obtaining micronized solution of soybean curd by grinding and filtering a mixture thereof; and mixing the micronized solution of soybean curd with a coagulant and soybean milk so as to coagulate it.
US08709517B2

A method for manufacturing a snack food with from a non-cohesive homogeneous blend of ingredients using an ultrasonic horn and an anvil to form an agglomerated, cohesive and portable snack without the use of additives, including but not limited to preservatives, plasticizers, binders and fluidizers.
US08709514B2

The invention provides a stevia formulation comprising a stevia sweetener with a rebaudioside A content of 95% or greater, and 0.25 to 5.15 parts by weight of a sugarcane-derived extract (a), 0.06 to 2.50 parts by weight of a sugarcane-derived extract (b) and 0.002 to 12.5 parts by weight of γ-aminobutyric acid with respect to 100 parts by weight of the stevia sweetener.
US08709509B2

The present invention discloses a novel, synergistic, effective herbal composition as a regenerative medicine comprising combination therapeutically effective amounts of extracts obtained from Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabara, Hamiltonia suaveolens, Typha angustifolia and Azadirachta indica, along with optionally comprising Pig fat in Sesamum indicum (Til) oil as a base, useful for the treatment of wound healing. The present invention also discloses a process for preparation of said herbal composition.
US08709507B2

Methods of using extracts of Maesa japonica to impart anti-aging benefits to skin and/or improve skin conditions resulting from aging or damaged skin.
US08709496B2

The present invention relates to the use of deuterium oxide for the prophylaxis and/or therapy of virus-based diseases of the respiratory tract.
US08709491B2

The invention relates to dosage forms that provide prolonged therapy. In particular, the invention relates to dosage forms including various pluralities of drug-containing resin particles. In a particular embodiment, the drug dosage form comprises a mixture of dextro- and levo-amphetamines complexed with ion-exchange resin particles to form drug resin particles. The invention also relates to methods of making these dosage forms and methods of treating using these dosage forms.
US08709490B2

Disclosed herein is an active pellet. The active pellet includes a body and interspaces. The body includes an active ingredient ranging from 50 to 100 wt %, free of chemical additives.
US08709488B2

A method and composition for hyperthermally treating tumor cells in a patient under conditions that affect tumor stem cells and tumor cells. In one embodiment, the method provides a synergistic effect with chemotherapy.
US08709484B2

Phospholipid based powders for drug delivery applications are disclosed. The powders may include a polyvalent cation in an amount effective to increase the gel-to-liquid crystal transition temperature of the particle compared to particles without the polyvalent cation. The powders are hollow and porous and are preferably administered via inhalation.
US08709483B2

The present invention provides a drug delivery system for targeted delivery of therapeutic agent-containing particles to tissues, cells, and intracellular compartments. The invention provides targeted particles comprising a particle, one or more targeting moieties, and one or more therapeutic agents to be delivered and pharmaceutical compositions comprising inventive targeted particles. The present invention provides methods of designing, manufacturing, and using inventive targeted particles and pharmaceutical compositions thereof.
US08709482B2

A pharmaceutical delivery device, such as a suppository or pessary, comprises a synthetic prostaglandin PGE1 analogue (e.g. misoprostol) in a solid polyurethane hydrogel.
US08709464B2

A porous object includes a porous material having internal pore surfaces and external pore surfaces. Releasing material encapsulated biomolecules are immobilized on at least one of the internal pore surfaces, at least one of the external pore surfaces, or combinations thereof.
US08709457B2

The invention relates to the cosmetic use, as a skin moisturizer, of a compound of formula (I): with (i) R1 and R2 represent a hydrogen atom or a C1-C6 alkyl group, or (ii) R1 and R2 can form, together with the nitrogen atom which bears them, a saturated heterocycle with 5 to 7 ring members; R5 representing a hydrogen atom or a (C1-C3) alkyl group; R6 representing a hydrogen atom or a (C1-C4) alkyl group; R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a (C1-C6) alkyl group, or —OR3 represents a phosphate group; it being possible for the two groups R3 to form, together, an isopropylidene group; R4 represents a hydrogen atom or —OR4 represents a phosphate group; and the salts, solvates and isomers thereof. The invention also relates to a cosmetic composition comprising a compound (I) and the corresponding new compounds.
US08709444B2

The present invention relates to compositions and methods for disease treatment and prevention through administration of a live attenuated composition. In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infection by administration of a live attenuated compositions lacking O-antigen ligase activity.
US08709432B2

Methods to improve the success of cancer therapies that target the human folate receptor 1 are provided. Kits comprising reagent useful in the methods are further provided.
US08709428B2

The present invention provides an antibody composition comprising ovine antibodies, for use in the prevention or treatment of C. difficile infection wherein the antibodies bind to a C. difficile toxin.
US08709424B2

Antibodies to human GITR are provided, as well as uses thereof, e.g., in treatment of proliferative and immune disorders.
US08709420B2

The present invention relates to methods of treating neuroblastoma, osteosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma in a human and to pharmaceutical combinations useful in such treatment. In particular, the method relates to a neuroblastoma treatment method that includes administering 5-[[4-[(2,3-dimethyl-2H-indazol-6-yl)methylamino]-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]-2-methylbenzenesulfonamide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and (S)-10-[(dimethylamino)methyl]-4-ethyl-4,9-dihydroxy-1H-pyrano[3′,4′:6,7]indolizino[1,2-b]quinoline-3,14-(4H,12H)-dione, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to a human in need thereof.
US08709419B2

The present invention relates to a combination therapy of propane-1-sulfonic acid {3-[5-(4-chloro-phenyl)-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridine-3-carbonyl]-2,4-difluoro-phenyl}-amide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an EGFR inhibitor for treating a patient suffering from a proliferative disorder, in particular a solid tumor, for example, colorectal cancer, melanoma, and thyroid cancer.
US08709404B2

The present invention relates to a novel method of cancer immuno-therapy and to a kit for use in this method. Specifically, the present invention relates to a novel method of collecting lymphocytes from sentinel lumph nodes and in vitro culture for the multiplication thereof lymphocytes.
US08709401B2

Disclosed are methods of treating inflammation within a synovial joint, comprising administering to the joint a composition comprising primed stem or progenitor cells in an amount effective to enhance recovery, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US08709398B2

Probiotic Bifidobacterium strain AH1205 or mutants or variants thereof are immunomodulatory following oral consumption and are useful in the prophylaxis and/or treatment of inflammatory activity such as undesirable gastrointestinal inflammatory activity for example inflammatory bowel disease.
US08709393B2

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for wound healing. In particular, the present invention relates to promoting and enhancing wound healing by utilizing cross-linker covalent modification molecules to attach and deliver wound active agents to a wound. In addition, the present invention provides methods and compositions utilizing oppositely charged polymers to form a polyelectrolyte layer on a wound surface. The invention further relates to incorporating wound active agents into a polyelectrolyte layer for delivery to a wound.
US08709392B2

Cosmetic/dermatological compositions for topical application and useful for the treatment, e.g., of acne, contain, formulated into a physiologically acceptable medium, at least one naphthoic acid compound and at least one polyurethane polymer or derivative thereof, the at least one naphthoic acid compound being dispersed therein.
US08709373B2

The present disclosure describes carbon nanotube arrays having carbon nanotubes grown directly on a substrate and methods for making such carbon nanotube arrays. In various embodiments, the carbon nanotubes may be covalently bonded to the substrate by nanotube carbon-substrate covalent bonds. The present carbon nanotube arrays may be grown on substrates that are not typically conducive to carbon nanotube growth by conventional carbon nanotube growth methods. For example, the carbon nanotube arrays of the present disclosure may be grown on carbon substrates including carbon foil, carbon fibers and diamond. Methods for growing carbon nanotubes include a) providing a substrate, b) depositing a catalyst layer on the substrate, c) depositing an insulating layer on the catalyst layer, and d) growing carbon nanotubes on the substrate. Various uses for the carbon nanotube arrays are contemplated herein including, for example, electronic device and polymer composite applications.
US08709370B2

The present invention relates generally to production of a fluoride gas and equivalents thereof, and fluorine-doped sodium silicate glass, glass ceramics, vitro ceramics and equivalents thereof. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a salt and an oxide in a reactor, heating the reactor to produce a vapor and the vitro ceramic and removing the vapor.
US08709363B2

A cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction includes a body having at least one flow path formed therein. The cartridge also includes a reaction vessel extending from the body for holding a reaction mixture for chemical reaction and optical detection. The vessel comprises a rigid frame defining the side walls of a reaction chamber. The frame includes at least one channel connecting the flow path to the chamber. The vessel also includes flexible films or sheets attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form opposing major walls of the chamber. In addition, at least two of the side walls are optically transmissive and angularly offset from each to permit real-time optical detection of analyte in the reaction chamber.
US08709356B2

The present invention relates to systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating diffusion effects. Diffused regions of a segmented flow of multiple, miscible fluid species may be vented off to a waste channel, and non-diffused regions of fluid may be preferentially pulled off the channel that contains the segmented flow. Multiple fluid samples that are not contaminated via diffusion may be collected for analysis and measurement in a single channel. The systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating diffusion effects may be used to minimize or eliminate diffusion effects in a microfluidic system for monitoring the amplification of DNA molecules and the dissociation behavior of the DNA molecules.
US08709353B2

A device, particularly a microfluidic system, is proposed, in which two cavities are arranged spatially close to one another and are sealed off from one another by a common cover. A fluidic connection can be produced between the cavities by movement of a pin-shaped body towards the cover. In this way it is possible to release a reagent in controlled manner without having to put it under pressure.
US08709346B2

An analysis device includes a separation chamber, a holding channel, a mixing chamber connected to the holding channel, an overflow channel connected between the holding channel and the separation chamber, a sample overflow chamber into which a sample solution remaining in the separation chamber is discharged, and a joint channel connecting the separation chamber and the sample overflow chamber. After the separated solution component fills the overflow channel with priority, a separated solid component is transferred to the holding channel via the overflow channel, and a predetermined amount of the solid component is measured. The solid component in the holding channel is transferred to the mixing chamber by a centrifugal force, and simultaneously, the sample solution remaining in the separation chamber is discharged to the sample overflow chamber by the siphon effect of the joint channel.
US08709343B2

A method and apparatus for performing coronary perfusion and cardiac reoxygenation that enables accurate control of oxygen levels in blood used for the coronary circulation. Deoxygenated blood and oxygenated blood are collected and oxygen levels are measured by sensors. The deoxygenated and oxygenated blood is then mixed and the mixed blood is measured by another sensor. The sensors provide data used to provide real-time oxygen level measurement and adjustment for blood supplied for coronary circulation.
US08709337B2

A method of delivering a volatile material to the atmosphere in a continuous manner is disclosed. The method includes providing a delivery engine having a reservoir that includes a volatile material mixture. The volatile material mixture includes about 40% to about 100%, by total weight, of the volatile materials each having a vapor pressure at 25° C. of less than about 0.1 torr. The delivery system also includes a microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, wherein the microporous membrane comprises an average pore size of about 0.01 to about 0.03 microns.
US08709335B1

A method of making a sputtering target includes providing a backing structure, and forming a copper indium gallium sputtering target material on the backing structure by cold spraying. The step of cold spraying includes spraying a powder comprising copper, indium and gallium in a process gas stream, and at least one of an average particle size of the powder is at least 35 μm, a velocity of the process gas stream is at least 150 m/s, or a process gas pressure is 20 bar or less.
US08709334B2

A metal melting apparatus has a heating furnace, a melting furnace mounted on the heating furnace, a high-cycle regenerative system (HRS), a raw material feeding device and a melted material feeding device mounted on the melting furnace. The HRS heats and recycles high temperature air in the heating furnace and guides the high temperature air to the preheating screw to preheat metal materials in the preheating screw. Thus, a time for melting the metal materials from solid to liquid is greatly shortened. Furthermore, a series of processes for preheating the metal materials in the raw material feeding device, melting the metal materials in the melting furnace and injecting the molten materials to the molds is fluent, time-saving and safe, and can progress continuously.
US08709324B2

The present invention relates to a method for producing a flexible elastomeric composite polyurethane skin wherein a polyurethane reaction mixture is sprayed onto a mold surface and the polyurethane reaction mixture is allowed to cure to produce the skin layer. The polyurethane reaction mixture is composed of components comprising at least an isocyanate component, isocyanate-reactive components and a catalyst component and the isocyanate component is composed of at least one isocyanate having at least two NCO-groups which are not directly attached to an aromatic group. The catalyst component is substantially free of lead, which leads to a lower flexibility. In accordance with the invention, the flexibility of the polyurethane skin is increased by means of at least one flexibiliser which reduces the flexural modulus of the skin and which comprises at least one isocyanate-reactive group. The flexibiliser is preferably a monofunctional flexibiliser which comprises only one isocyanate-reactive group.
US08709306B2

Thermochromic microparticles including vanadium dioxide (VO2) particles of a rutile crystal phase (R phase), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles of the rutile crystal phase (R phase), wherein at least one of the vanadium dioxide (VO2) particles of a rutile crystal phase (R phase) is grown like a rod on the titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles to be larger than sizes of the titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles.
US08709302B2

The present invention discloses a high compact density nickel-cobalt-manganese multi-element lithium ion battery cathode material with dopants and methods of its preparation. A preparation method of this battery cathode material is as follows: (A) preparing a nickel-cobalt-manganese multi-element intermediate with dopants by co-precipitation or chemical synthesis; (B) preparing a mixture by mixing said multi-element intermediate with a lithium salt; (C) pre-treating the said mixture, then adding into it polyvinyl alcohol and mixing uniformly; (D) pressing the resulting material into lumps, calcining the lumps at 800˜950° C., cooling after its removal from the furnace, crushing, passing through a 400 mesh sieve; (E) calcining the resulting power at 700˜800° C., cooling after its removal from the furnace, crushing and sieving to obtain a product. The lithium battery cathode material obtained using the above-described method has the formula LiNixCoyMnzM(1-x-y-z)O2. The cathode material has non-agglomerated single crystal particles. The material has a particle size ranging from 0.6˜30 μm, a compact density of 3.5˜3.7 g/cm3, and an initial discharge capacity of 150˜165 mAh/g, with excellent cycling and safety performance.
US08709295B2

A Fe—Co hybrid catalyst for oxygen reaction reduction was prepared by a two part process. The first part involves reacting an ethyleneamine with a cobalt-containing precursor to form a cobalt-containing complex, combining the cobalt-containing complex with an electroconductive carbon supporting material, heating the cobalt-containing complex and carbon supporting material under conditions suitable to convert the cobalt-containing complex and carbon supporting material into a cobalt-containing catalyst support. The second part of the process involves polymerizing an aniline in the presence of said cobalt-containing catalyst support and an iron-containing compound under conditions suitable to form a supported, cobalt-containing, iron-bound polyaniline species, and subjecting said supported, cobalt-containing, iron bound polyaniline species to conditions suitable for producing a Fe—Co hybrid catalyst.
US08709294B2

The invention relates to an electrode that can be formed by firing in air a conductive paste comprising a copper powder, a boron powder, an additional inorganic powder, a glass frit, and an organic medium, wherein the additional inorganic powder is zirconia powder.
US08709290B2

The invention relates to conjugated polymers comprising benzo-bis(silolothiophene) units or derivatives thereof, to methods of their preparation, to novel monomer units used therein, to the use of the polymers in organic electronic (OE) devices, and to OE devices comprising the polymers.
US08709285B2

An ionic compound has the formula (I): in which, R1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, a C1-C20 alkyl, and an aromatic group; R2 is selected from the group consisting of a carbonyl and a C1-C10 alkyl; and R3 is selected from the group consisting of an imidazole ring, a C1-C20 alkyl, an acrylic group, and an aromatic group; X− is selected from the group consisting of Cl−, Br−, I−, NO3−, AlCl4−, BF4−, CF3SO3−, (CF3SO3)−, CF3COO−, CH3COO−, and PF6−; and k is an integer 1 or 2. The ionic compound can be added in a pressure-sensitive adhesive of a polarizer of a liquid crystal display panel to avoid the phenomenon of the static electricity residual when the release film is removed from the pressure-sensitive adhesive.
US08709284B2

The present invention relates to ZnO green luminescent material and its preparation. The ZnO green luminescent material is prepared by doping a trivalent rare earth ion compound and a Li compound into zinc oxide material. The method comprises the following steps: (1) weighing raw material in the stoichiometric ratio of formula ZnO: xA, yLi, (2) grinding the raw material, sintering it at 800-1200° C. for 2-8 h, cooling to the room temperature, and then obtaining the ZnO green luminescent material. The present ZnO green luminescent material doped with trivalent rare earth ion compound and Li compound has high stability and luminous intensity, and has higher low-voltage cathode ray luminescence efficiency. The method can easily be operated and can be used widely.
US08709274B2

There is provided novel curable ink compositions comprising surfactant-coated magnetic metal nanoparticles. In particular, there is provided ultraviolet (UV) curable gel inks comprising at least a coated magnetic metal nanoparticles, one curable monomer, a radiation activated initiator that initiates polymerization of curable components of the ink, and optionally a gellant. The inks may also include optional colorants and one or more optional additives. These curable UV ink compositions can be used for ink jet printing in a variety of applications.
US08709267B2

Methods for patterning material layers, which may be implemented in forming integrated circuit device features, are disclosed. In an example, a method includes forming a first resist layer over a material layer; forming a second resist layer over the first resist layer; forming an opening that extends through the second resist layer and the first resist layer to expose the material layer, wherein the opening has a substantially constant width in the second resist layer and a tapered width in the first resist layer; and performing a tilt-angle deposition process to form a feature over the exposed material layer.
US08709263B2

A method of removing contaminants from slurry samples is set forth. The method includes the utilization of repeated pressurizing and depressurizing steps to disrupt solidified particles in solid-containing slurries thereby increasing decontamination efficiency. An expansion fluid is injected into the slurry sample sufficient to create microbubbles when the slurry sample is depressurized. The micro bubbles mechanically disrupt the solidified particles increasing contaminant exposure. The microbubbles also provide for increased interfacial regions where contaminants can accumulate at gas-liquid thin films that are in close proximity to and can be effectively removed using a suitable expansion fluid and optional decontamination agents.
US08709258B2

Described herein are systems, methods, and apparatuses for aggregating microorganism in an aqueous suspension. In particular, are systems, methods, and apparatuses that apply an electrical field to an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms as the aqueous suspension follows a flow path to cause aggregation of the microorganisms. The electrical field may comprise different types of pulses. In some embodiments, the flow path for the aqueous suspension may vary.
US08709256B2

A method and apparatus provide at least one region of pulsed fluid treatment within a fluid treatment chamber. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.
US08709254B2

A microporous organic-inorganic hybrid membrane based on silica of the invention has an average pore diameter of less than 0.6 nm, and comprises bridging organosilane moieties of the formula ≡O1.5Si—CHR—SiO1.5≡ or ≡O1.5Si—CH(CH3)—SiO1.5≡. The membrane can be used in the separation of hydrogen from mixtures comprising hydrogen and CH4, CO2, CO, N2, and the like, and in the separation of water from alcohols having 1-3 carbon atoms, optionally in the presence of an inorganic or organic acid.
US08709253B2

The invention offers a separation membrane element that can be produced by a method in which a membrane-sealing portion is formed by, first, immersing end portions of hollow-fiber-shaped porous separation membranes in a resinous liquid and, then, curing the resin, that has a feature in that the membrane-sealing portion is formed of a casting resin and pores of the hollow-fiber-shaped porous separation membranes are filled with a pore-filling resin at the portion at which the membranes are in contact with the membrane-sealing portion, so that the casting resin is strongly bonded with the pore-filling resin, and that has the hollow-fiber-shaped porous separation membranes whose basal portions are flexible, so that breakage of the basal portions and leakage of gas or liquid are less likely to occur when in use; a separation membrane element that has a feature in that in the membrane-sealing portion, at least the surface at a side that is to be in contact with a liquid to be treated is formed of a thermosetting fluororesin, so that the membrane-sealing portion has excellent chemical resistance comparable to that of the conventional membrane-sealing portion formed of a thermoplastic fluororesin; separation membrane modules having these separation membrane elements as constituting elements; and a method of producing the separation membrane element.
US08709251B2

The present invention provides a coolant demineralizer for a fuel cell vehicle, which removes ions released from coolant of a fuel cell stack. In preferred embodiments, the present invention provides a coolant demineralizer configured to reduce the occurrence of differential pressure due to an ion resin layer such that coolant can smoothly flow through a filter member, thereby increasing the effect of filtering ions and improving the efficiency of use of ion resin.
US08709247B2

A filter cartridge including catches for ejecting the filter cartridge from a filter housing as the filter cartridge and filter housing are removed from a filter base is provided. The catches are configured to engage corresponding catches of the filter base to limit axial motion of the filter cartridge as the filter cartridge and filter housing are threadedly removed from the filter base.
US08709243B2

An improved pool cleaning vehicle with the ability to clean and sanitize pool water includes a housing having an interior. The vehicle includes a chemical dispenser member connected to the housing. The chemical dispenser member has a hollow interior suitable for storing chemicals for sanitizing pool water. The chemical dispenser member includes an inlet for allowing pool water to contact the chemical dispenser member. The chemical dispenser member includes a dissolvable seal and upon continued contact with water, the seal dissolves. The chemical dispenser member also includes an outlet facilitating communication between the chemical dispenser member and the pool water.
US08709242B2

A water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, includes a hydraulic circuit for circulation of a wash fluid, and a filter facility which includes a filter element having an inner wall and at least one filter opening for passage of the wash fluid. The filter opening is bounded by the inner wall running around the filter opening. The inner wall has an upstream wall segment and a downstream wall segment, with a gradation being formed at least in a segment between an upstream and downstream wall segment of the inner wall of the filter opening. Additionally or independently hereof, the downstream wall segment has a cross section that increases in a flow direction of the wash fluid.
US08709238B2

Crude tall oil is subjected to a distillation process that substantially removes impurities. The process produces a combined pitch and a distillate of free fatty acids and rosin acids from two vacuum columns. The distillate stream is amenable to further downstream hydroprocessing.
US08709234B2

A process in which the paraffinic effluent derived from a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis unit is separated to obtain a heavy C5+ fraction, said heavy fraction then being hydrogenated in the presence of a hydrogenation catalyst at a temperature in the range 80° C to 200° C, at a total pressure in the range 0.5 to 6 MPa, at an hourly space velocity in the range 1 to 10 h-1, and at a hydrogen flow rate corresponding to a hydrogen/hydrocarbons volume ratio in the range 5 to 80 NI/I/h, the liquid hydrogenated effluent then being brought into contact with a hydroisomerization/hydrocracking catalyst, with no prior separation step, the hydroisomerized/hydrocracked effluent then being distilled to obtain middle distillates and possibly oil bases.
US08709230B2

An apparatus and method for sorting ions in order to produce gas from liquid. A first electric field source is electrically insulated from the liquid by an insulating layer. A first conductive deionization surface is positioned in the liquid and within a field line of the first electric field source. An electric conductor is connected to the first conductive deionization surface to discharge charge built up due to attracted ions located on the first conductive deionization surface. The gas is produced on said first conductive deionization surface when said first conductive deionization surface is positioned within the water.
US08709219B2

A structured diamond tool having a predefined grayscale grating profile shape allows a corresponding grayscale grating profile to be machined into a work piece with a single pass with high accuracy. Manufacture of grayscale gratings using this technique saves time compared to the situation where the profile is machined by a single-point diamond tool with multiple passes. Also, more time-saving is realized if more than one period is machined in the diamond tool. Such a tool can be manufactured using a high precision focused ion beam (FIB), which is a true nanomachining tool that can machine features on the order of tens of nanometers. The diamond tool made by FIB therefore has extremely fine resolution and features required by the grayscale grating.
US08709215B2

A process comprising receiving a hydrocarbon feed stream comprising carbon dioxide, separating the hydrocarbon feed stream into a light hydrocarbon stream and a heavy hydrocarbon stream, separating the light hydrocarbon stream into a carbon dioxide-rich stream and a carbon dioxide-lean stream, and feeding the carbon dioxide-lean stream into a hydrocarbon sweetening process, thereby increasing the processing capacity of the hydrocarbon sweetening process compared to the processing capacity of the hydrocarbon sweetening process when fed the hydrocarbon feed stream. Included is an apparatus comprising a first separation unit that receives a hydrocarbon feed stream containing carbon dioxide and produces a heavy hydrocarbon stream and a light hydrocarbon stream, and a second separation unit that receives the light hydrocarbon stream and produces a carbon dioxide-rich stream and a carbon dioxide-lean stream, wherein the apparatus is configured to feed the carbon dioxide-lean stream to a physical solvent, membrane, or carbon dioxide recovery process.
US08709214B2

Provided is a belt for transferring a wet web, wherein any water mark does not appear on made paper even when a rate of feeding the belt for transferring a wet web by a roll is high. The roll side layer surface of the belt for transferring a wet web has the surface structure in which the percentage of a contact area with the roll per unit area is 10% to 75% and a surface roughness Ra is 50-150 μm.
US08709213B2

A macroscale, self-supporting, composite laminate sheet includes individual, layered graphene oxide sheets and a polymer in spaces between the sheets. This composite product can be fabricated by combining a suspension of individual graphene oxide sheets and a solution of polymer, passing the resulting fluid through a fluid-permeable support, and assembling the graphene oxide sheets and polymer as a laminate sheet by flow-directed assembly. The laminate is dried and released from the membrane filter as a self-supporting thin films.
US08709211B2

The feed system is for a continuous digester where at least two pumps are arranged in parallel at the bottom of a pre-treatment vessel and a stirrer is provided in direct connection to inlets to pumps. The system makes it possible to provide a feed system with an improved accessibility and operational reliability, and to operate the main part of the pumps at optimal efficiency even if the production capacity is reduced.
US08709189B2

The invention is directed to an integrated lightning strike protection system adapted for automated placement on a composite structure having a surfacing layer consisting of an organic polymer resin, a conductive layer of an expanded metal foil, an isolation/tack layer, and a carrier paper layer. In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided an integrated lightning strike protection system having an integrated lightning strike protection material consisting of an expanded metal foil encapsulated in organic polymer resin mounted on a carrier paper, and an automated placement machine suitable for placing the material on an aircraft composite part for protection of the composite part from lightning strikes. In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method for fabricating a composite structure with lightning strike protection.
US08709184B2

Provided is single-walled carbon nanotube saturable absorber production via a multi-vacuum filtration method, and more particularly, single-walled carbon nanotube saturable absorber production via a multi-vacuum filtration method, capable of depositing a carbon nanotube thin film on a filter using a vacuum chamber and a membrane filter, etching the filter using an etchant so as to be transferred to an upper surface of the polymer, coating the polymer on the carbon nanotube to thereby produce a carbon nanotube saturable absorber, as a method of producing a carbon nanotube thin film to transfer the thin film to the polymer using a multi-filtration method in order to produce a passive saturable absorber to be used in laser oscillation.
US08709170B2

In one embodiment, after rinsing a semiconductor substrate having a fine pattern formed thereon with pure water, the pure water staying on the semiconductor substrate is substituted with a water soluble organic solvent, and then, the semiconductor substrate is introduced into a chamber in a state wet with the water soluble organic solvent. Then, the water soluble organic solvent is turned into a supercritical state by increasing a temperature inside of the chamber. Thereafter, the inside of the chamber is reduced in pressure while keeping the inside of the chamber at a temperature enough not to liquefy the pure water (i.e., rinsing pure water mixed into the water soluble organic solvent), and further, the water soluble organic solvent in the supercritical state is changed into a gaseous state, to be discharged from the chamber, so that the semiconductor substrate is dried.
US08709162B2

A substrate support assembly and method for controlling the temperature of a substrate within a process chamber with a temperature uniformity of +/−5° C. are provided. A substrate support assembly includes a thermally conductive body comprising an aluminum material, a substrate support surface on the surface of the thermally conductive body and adapted to support the large area glass substrate thereon, one or more heating elements embedded within the thermally conductive body, and one or more cooling channels embedded within the thermally conductive body and positioned around the one or more heating elements. A process chamber comprising the substrate support assembly of the invention is also provided.
US08709159B2

A vertical heat treatment apparatus enabling the insertion of a temperature sensor in the reaction tube without disassembling the apparatus is disclosed. The vertical heat treatment apparatus includes a reaction tube; a heating section; a wafer holding section; a supporting section movably provided in the vertical direction so as to seal the reaction tube while the wafer holding section is in the reaction tube; a temperature sensor insertion section provided in the supporting section and having a through hole for guiding a temperature sensor so that the temperature sensor can be inserted into the reaction tube; and a cap section for opening and closing the through hole of the temperature sensor insertion section while the wafer holding section is on the supporting section.
US08709155B1

Scintillation materials of this invention have an alkali halide host material, a (first) scintillation dopant of various types, and a variety of second dopants (co-dopants). In another embodiment, the scintillation materials of this invention have an alkali halide host material, a (first) scintillation dopant of various types, a variety of second dopants (co-dopants), and a variety of third dopants (co-dopants). Co-dopants of this invention are capable of providing a second auxiliary luminescent cation dopant, capable of introducing an anion size and electronegativity mismatch, capable of introducing a mismatch of anion charge, or introducing a mismatch of cation charge in the host material.
US08709144B2

A precursor sol of aluminum oxide includes a solvent and particles containing a hydrolysate of an aluminum compound and/or a condensate of the hydrolysate, in which the particles have an average particle size of 2.5 nm to 7 nm. A method for producing an optical member includes the steps of feeding the precursor sol of aluminum oxide described above onto a base to form an aluminum oxide film and immersing the aluminum oxide film in hot water with a temperature of 60° C. to 100° C. to form a textured structure comprising aluminum oxide boehmite.
US08709143B2

A water-based ink set for ink-jet recording includes: a water-based black ink containing a black colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent; and a water-based cyan ink containing a cyan colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent; wherein the black colorant includes a self-dispersible carbon black modified by at least one of a carboxyl group and a sulfo group; and the cyan colorant includes a dye represented by general formula (1):
US08709142B2

An ink formulation for marking living tissue comprises a dispersion of carbon black pigment particles encapsulated in water soluble shells, mixed with a pharmaceutically accepted carrier, such as water, and a preservative. A dispersion formulation is preferential to a suspension formulation for marking living tissue because the carbon particles of the dispersion formulation are less likely to aggregate and sediment over time. In addition, the absence of large quantities of additives makes a dispersion formulation less reactive to living tissue, further enhancing its appeal as a biological marker.
US08709141B2

Disclosed are heat releasable multi-component composite coatings. These coatings include an under coating and an over coating deposited over at least a portion of the under coating. The under coating is deposited from a coating composition that includes a film-forming resin and thermally expandable capsules having an average diameter of 5 to 25 μm. The over coating layer has a 60 degree gloss of no more than 60 gloss units.
US08709140B2

Embodiments provide methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture for filtering particulates from an airflow directed at a heat exchanger. A blade may gather the filtered particulates. The gathered particulates may then be exhausted.
US08709137B2

A method and an apparatus are provided for deodorizing and disinfecting air and droplets from urinal, toilet bowl, and other receivers and holders of urine and fecal matter. The apparatus comprises a housing (1) having an air inlet (2) and air outlet (3), wherein the housing (1) encloses a droplet removal chamber (4) for removing droplets from airflow; a deodorization and disinfection chamber (5) for removing air contaminants in the airflow; and an delivery unit (6) for airflow generation. Being actively drawn into the apparatus, air contaminants such as odor, bacteria and virus are removed without discharge of contaminated air and causing secondary pollution. The apparatus and method provide odorless and comfortable environment and avoid disease transmission in both public and domestic toilets.
US08709135B2

An off gas extraction system cleans common sources of off gas, such as storage tanks and polluted soils. Off gas is extracted, followed by compression and condensation. Compression and condensation produce an off gas that can be reintroduced as a treated gas into the off gas source. Alternatively, a regenerative absorber cleans the treated gas by adsorbing residual chemical vapor and concentrates the removed chemical vapors and reprocesses them. If the treated gas is not reintroduced into the off gas source, conventional scrubbers may used on the back end of the system to produce a final exhaust as prescribed by environmental regulation. Methods of accomplishing the same are similarly provided, including novel methods for degassing storage tanks and treating polluted soils to meet current environmental regulations, as well as green technology and sustainability initiatives.
US08709130B2

The invention provides a preparation method for producing metal zirconium industrially and producing low-temperature aluminum electrolyte as byproduct, which comprises the following steps: A) aluminum and fluorozirconate are put in a closed reactor, inert gas is fed into the reactor after evacuation, the reactor is heated up to 780° C. to 1000° C. and then the mixture in the reactor is stirred rapidly; and B) after reaction continues for 4 to 6 hours, the liquid molten at the upper layer is sucked out to obtain low-temperature aluminum electrolyte, and the product at the lower layer is subjected to acid dipping or distillation to remove surface residue to obtain metal zirconium.
US08709129B2

The invention relates to novel compounds which are useful as ligands of actinides, to the synthesis of these compounds and to their uses.These compounds fit the general formula (I) hereafter: wherein R1 and R2, either identical or different, represent H, a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C1-C12 hydrocarbon group, a phenyl, benzyl, diphenyl or tolyl group; R3 represents H, a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C1-C12 hydrocarbon group, a phenyl, tolyl or linear or branched C1-C12 alkoxy group; while R4 represents H, a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C1-C12 hydrocarbon group, a phenyl or tolyl group. Field of applications: the processing of used nuclear fuels via a hydrometallurgical route.
US08709126B1

Various embodiments provide methods of forming metallic particles or carbon/graphite coated metallic particles with zero-valence from metal precursor compounds by a reductive/expansion synthesis method using nitrogen-hydrogen containing molecules.
US08709120B2

The present disclosure generally relates to filter media including glass fibers. The fiber characteristics (e.g., composition, dimensions) are selected to impart the desired solubility, filtration and mechanical properties so that the filter media may be used in the desired application.
US08709110B2

The present invention relates to a composition comprising a) a substance selected from the group of astaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, astaxanthindialkanoylesters, isozeaxanthin, isozeaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, isozeaxanthindialkanoylesters and mixtures thereof; and b) a substance selected from the group of alkyl nitrates, nitrooxy esters of alkoxy substituted aliphatic alcohols and organic peroxides; as well as to a change in oxidation reactions of hydrocarbons, especially fuels, admixed to these compositions. The invention also relates to a composition comprising a) a compound selected from the group consisting of astaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, astaxanthindialkanoylesters, iso-zeaxanthin, iso-zeaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, iso-zeaxanthindialkanoylesters and mixtures thereof; and c) a fuel. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a composition comprising a) a compound selected from the group consisting of astaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, astaxanthindialkanoylesters, isozeaxanthin, isozeaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, isozeaxanthindialkanoylesters and mixtures thereof; and b) a compound selected from the group of alkyl nitrates, nitrooxy esters of alkoxy substituted aliphatic alcohols, organic peroxides and mixtures thereof; and d) a stabilizing compound; and e) optionally a solvent.
US08709108B2

There is disclosed a fuel composition comprising (a) a major amount of a middle distillate fuel comprising from about 0.5% to about 30% by weight fatty acid methyl esters, relative to the total amount of the fuel composition; and (b) a minor amount of an additive composition comprising an antioxidant system comprising at least one cyclic amine antioxidant and at least one phenolic antioxidant, and at least one ashless dispersant, wherein said fuel composition demonstrates reduced sediment formation as compared to a fuel composition devoid of the additive composition, and methods of use thereof.
US08709105B2

An electrode including a substrate and a complex metal oxide film deposited on the surface of the substrate. The complex metal oxide film includes manganese oxide, cobalt oxide, and zinc oxide. A main component of the complex metal oxide film is manganese oxide. The stability of the electrode is enhanced by adding little amount of cobalt oxide and zinc oxide. Furthermore, a method relates to fabricate the electrode. The method utilizes a dry process, simpler one-step radio frequency magnetron sputtering to fabricate the electrode of the present invention. The process can reduce residual impurities in the electrode and then prevent the electrochemical capacitor and cell from explosion. Moreover, an electrochemical capacitor and a cell relates to of the above electrode.
US08709101B2

The present invention relates to a dye composition comprising: * at least one oxidation dye precursor; * at least one polycondensate of ethylene oxide and of propylene oxide having the structure (A) below H—(O—CH2CH2)a—(O—CH(CH3)—CH2)b—(O—CH2CH2)a′—OH (A) in which formula a ranges from 2 to 150 and b ranges from 1 to 100; and * at least one oxyethylenated rapeseed fatty acid amide comprising from 1 to 20 mol of ethylene oxide; * the oxyethylenated rapeseed fatty acid amide(s)/polycondensate(s) of formula (A) weight ratio ranging from 1 to 20. The invention also relates to a dyeing process using this composition (free of oxidizing agent) after mixing with a composition comprising an oxidizing agent. Another subject of the invention is a two-compartment device, the first compartment comprising the composition according to the invention, free of oxidizing agent, and the second compartment containing a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent.
US08709095B2

A structure made of collagen for improving promotion of nerve tissue regeneration, curing and regeneration of a defective part of a soft biological tissue and so on without using laminin or nerve growth factor (NGF), and a member for tissue regeneration including the same. The structure made of collagen has a thin film multilocular formation and is therefore a structure different from a colloid form, a gel form, and a fiber form. When the new structure made of collagen is used as a member for tissue regeneration, surprisingly, promotion of regeneration, shortening of a treatment period, functional recovery, or the like of bodily tissue such as nerve tissue, subdermal tissue, submucosal tissue, membranous tissue, fat tissue, muscle tissue, skin tissue, and gingival tissue can be improved. When the structure is used in a patient having neuropathic pain, the member has an effect on the disappearance of the pain.
US08709085B2

An intervertebral implant includes a three-dimensional body and a securing plate. The three-dimensional body includes a front surface and a rear surface. The three-dimensional body further includes a plurality of boreholes for accommodating fixation elements. The intervertebral implant also includes a front plate disposed at the front surface of the three-dimensional body and having a plurality of boreholes. A securing plate can be fastened to the front plate.
US08709056B2

This invention discloses a phototherapy apparatus for biological tissue (preferably skin tissue) treatment. The phototherapy apparatus comprises one or more light sources and a built-in ultrasonic imaging module. The ultrasonic imaging module provides a high-resolution image of the biological tissue from its surface layer to a depth of a few centimeters. The image is utilized to optimize the phototherapy procedure in parameters such as light intensity, wavelength, spot size, divergence angle, duration, repetition rate, duty cycle, etc. and to evaluate the effectiveness of the phototherapy procedure.
US08709053B2

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides an orthopedic fastener blocking system that allows for a desirable number of fasteners to be used with an orthopedic device even when the orthopedic device is too small to accommodate a desired number of traditionally located and oriented fasteners or when the accessibility to the device is reduced so that addressing a desired number of traditionally located and oriented fasteners is not possible. The system includes an orthopedic implant and at least first and second fasteners where one of the first and second fasteners prevents the other of the first and second fasteners from uninstalling when the first and second fasteners are in the installed position.
US08709052B2

An osteotomy implant for disposition in a wedge-shaped osteotomy opening in a bone, the implant comprising: a body for disposition within the wedge-shaped osteotomy opening in the bone and supporting the bone while healing occurs; at least one key formed integral with the body for stabilizing the body relative to the adjacent bone while healing occurs; and at least one fenestration extending through the body for permitting bone growth through the implant. An osteotomy implant for disposition in a wedge-shaped osteotomy opening in a bone, the implant comprising: a body for disposition within the wedge-shaped osteotomy opening in the bone and supporting the bone while healing occurs; and at least one key formed integral with the body for stabilizing the body relative to the adjacent bone while healing occurs; wherein at least a portion of the body and the at least one key are formed out of a relatively strong, load-bearing material whereby to stabilize the bone during healing; and further wherein at least a portion of the body is formed out of a bone growth-promoting material whereby to enhance bone healing across the osteotomy opening in the bone.
US08709042B2

An expandable support device for tissue repair is disclosed. The device can be used to repair hard or soft tissue, such as bone or vertebral discs. A method of repairing tissue is also disclosed. The device and method can be used to treat compression fractures. The compression fractures can be in the spine. The device can be deployed by compressing the device longitudinally resulting in radial expansion.
US08709037B2

The surgical instrument includes a distal tool, an elongated shaft that supports the distal tool, and a proximal handle or control member, where the tool and the handle are coupled to the respective distal and proximal ends of the elongated shaft via distal and proximal bendable motion members. Actuation means extends between said distal and proximal members whereby any deflection of said control handle with respect to said elongated instrument shaft causes a corresponding bending of said distal motion member for control of said working member. The proximal bendable member comprises a ball and socket assembly supported between the handle and instrument shaft and constructed and arranged for three dimensional motion.
US08709032B2

A lancet device and a lancet device tip for a lancet device. The tip includes a first sleeve and a second sleeve at least partially contained within the first sleeve. The second sleeve includes a stop surface. Rotation of the first sleeve relative to the second sleeve causes the second sleeve to move at least axially without changing an overall length of the lancet device tip.
US08709029B2

Various ocular fixation devices are disclosed. One ocular fixation device includes first and second rings, where at least one of the rings includes means for fixating ocular tissue of an eye. The means for fixating are arranged to grasp the ocular tissue of the eye and to release the ocular tissue of the eye based on rotation of at least one of the first and second rings. The ocular fixation device may also include one or more structures on which a surgical tool can be mounted on the ocular fixation device at one or more locations. For instance, a dome of the ocular fixation device could include one or more holes that are configured to receive one or more projections from the surgical tool. As another example, a base of the ocular fixation device could include one or more notches configured to receive a projection from the surgical tool.
US08709006B2

A pulse delivery system for producing a spark in tissue is disclosed. The system can include at least two electrodes having sharp surface features, where the at least two electrodes are electrically isolated from one another. The sharp features of the electrodes can be separated by a distance of about 2 to 20 mm. The system can also include a pulse generator for delivering pulsed voltage differences between the at least two electrodes. The pulsed voltage differences can producing a voltage difference ranging from about 2.5 kV to about 35 kV for a duration of about 50 ns to 3 μs. The system can include a controller for determining whether the plurality of pulsed voltage differences produced a spark between the at least two electrodes. A method of producing a spark in tissue for both therapeutic and cosmetic, i.e., non-therapeutic, applications is also disclosed.
US08709003B2

A skin proximity sensor and method are disclosed in a dermatologic treatment device that includes a bezel or similar surface, and a treatment source capable of being activated to supply a dermatologic treatment through the bezel or surface, such as a window or similar port. A plurality of contacts leading to remotely located capacitors, in some embodiments, or a plurality of capacitive sensors in other embodiments, is positioned in or under the bezel and around the window, and control circuitry coupled to the plurality of capacitors senses the change in capacitance due to skin and inhibits activation of the dermatologic treatment device unless the proximity of skin is sensed. The presence of skin is detected, for example, by measuring changes in charge and discharge times, indicating a variation in capacitance.
US08709002B2

Systems and methods for modifying an eye including a light source with light elements, a photodetector producing a signal representing images of the light elements and corresponding to locations on an ocular surface, an optical system directing light from the light elements reflected by the ocular surface onto the photodetector, a memory including code for processing the signal, and a processor for executing the code and outputting shape data for use in calculating a treatment plan for the eye. The code includes instructions for determining the shape data based on a combination of zonal reconstruction and polynomial fitting using the plurality of images.
US08708995B2

Methods and kits for delivering pharmaceutical agents to the adventitia and other regions outside the external elastic lamina (EEL) surrounding a blood vessel utilize a catheter having a needle. The needle is positioned in up to 5 mm beyond the EEL and delivers an amount of pharmaceutical agent sufficient to circumferentially permeate around the blood vessel and, in many cases, extend longitudinally and radially along the blood vessel. Confirmation that a delivery aperture of the needle lies beyond the EEL may be required before delivering the pharmaceutical agent.
US08708992B2

The present invention relates to a plastic film for medical containers having an oxygen absorbing function including at least 4 layers (4) and formed by a co-extrusion method, and an infusion bag formed thereof, in which the 4 layers include: a first layer (1) constituted by a polyamide obtained by a ring-opening polymerization of a lactam 11 or more carbon atoms or by polycondensing of an ω-amino acid having 11 or more carbon atoms, or a polyamide obtained by copolycondensing a dicarboxylic acid having 10 or more carbon atoms and a diamine having 6 or more carbon atoms; a second layer (2) of a mixed composition that is adjacent to the first layer and contains an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer of an α-olefin and a monomer of an unsaturated carboxylic acid or an anhydride of an unsaturated dicarboxylic acid as the major component, and a transition metal salt and a polyene-based polymer having an unsaturated double bond as accessory components; a third layer (3) that is adjacent to the second layer and contains a copolymer of an α-olefin and an anhydride monomer of an unsaturated carboxylic acid or an unsaturated dicarboxylic acid as the major component; and a sealing layer containing a polyethylene as the major component.
US08708990B2

The invention relates to an absorbent incontinence diaper (2) with a rear area (8), a front area (6) and a crotch area (12) lying between these, and with first and second side edges (5), and with a main part (4) having an inner face directed towards the body and an outer face directed away from the body during use of the diaper, the main part (4) comprising an absorption body (14) and a backsheet (10) on the side of the absorption body (14) directed away from the body, the absorption body (14) having a smaller width than the backsheet (10), and with side parts (16, 17) joined to the first and second side edges (5), the side parts (16, 17) having an inner face and an outer face, and the side parts (17) in the rear area having closure means (32) with mechanical closure aids (31). To correctly secure the diaper on the body of a user, the mechanical closure means (31) can be secured detachably at least in regions both on the outer face of the main part (4) and also on the outer face of the side parts (16) in the front area (6). The retaining forces between the mechanical closure means (31) and the outer face of the main part are lower than the retaining forces between the mechanical closure means (31) and the outer face of the side parts (16) in the front area (6).
US08708983B2

An applicator assembly includes a body having a proximal and a distal end, a container slidably coupled to the body, a valve cap coupled to the container, and an application member attached to the distal end, wherein an interior of the container is placed in fluid communication with the application member by way of a fluid conduit that is only accessible when one of the body and the container are axially translated in an opposite direction away from each other.
US08708979B2

The present invention provides a system for attaching a fluid access port to a patient. The system generally comprises an implantable access port and method for attaching an access port to a patient. In addition, a tube guard, tube shroud, tissue guard, porous coupling member and a prefabricated mesh member may be attached to the access port. For example, the prefabricated mesh may be coupled to the access port to facilitate securing the access port to the tissue of the patient.
US08708957B2

The present invention relates to a medical injection device (1) for use in combination with a medicament filled cartridge (2), the injection device being provided with a spring-assisted injecting mechanism where energy released from the spring moves a plunger (3) of a held cartridge (2). Sensor circuitry is adapted to detect speed related data during injection so at to detect an abnormal speed condition, such as a needle blocking condition, a priming condition or an air purge condition. The invention also relates to a medical injection device comprising sensor circuitry and user communicating means to provide a recommended needle retraction waiting period which is dependent on the speed of injection.
US08708952B2

A system for remotely controlling the positioning within the body of a patient of an elongated medical device optionally having a control handle, comprises a robotic system and a remote controller configured to control the robotic device. The robotic system comprises a handle controller; a sled member coupled to the handle controller, the sled member being configured to position the medical device within the body of the patient; and a sled base configured to advance the sled member towards the body of a patient, the sled bed being coupled to a sterile barrier effective to maintain sterility inside the sled base. A medical device introducer is effective to guide the elongated medical device into a patient's body.
US08708943B2

An apparatus for hemo(dia)filtration comprises an extracorporeal blood circuit and a supply line of a replacement fluid to the extracorporeal blood circuit. The supply line has a bifurcation which divides a main branch (24) into a pre-dilution branch (25) and a post-dilution branch (26). A pump tube tract (29) is predisposed in the supply line for coupling with a circuit pump of the replacement fluid. An expansion chamber is predisposed in the extracorporeal blood circuit and is fluidly connected to the pre-dilution branch. The invention provides a disposable fluid circuit usable for performing a hemodiafiltration treatment with pre-dilution and post-dilution which is couplable simply, rapidly, economically and reliably to a machine for monitoring the treatment.
US08708939B2

An orthosis for supination and/or pronation of a forearm of a wearer, the orthosis including a base, an upper arm support coupled to the base and configured to secure an upper arm of the wearer, a rotation assembly coupled to the base and including an output member rotatable relative to the base within a rotation plane, and a forearm support member coupled to the output member of the rotation assembly and configured to releasably engage a wrist and the forearm of the wearer.
US08708938B2

A low density fabric substrate for a medical bandaging product. The substrate has a plurality of longitudinally-extending voids formed in the fabric for permitting water penetration through the fabric thickness from one of the major faces to the other major faces. A reactive system is impregnated into or coated onto the substrate and remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to sufficient moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A soft, flexible protective material covers at least one of the major faces of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the material is in use.
US08708937B2

A high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) therapy system includes an inflatable garment, an air pulse generator operable to produce oscillating pressure pulses that are communicated to the inflatable garment, at least one hose to interconnect the air pulse generator with the inflatable garment and to communicate the oscillatory pressure pulses from the air pulse generator to the inflatable garment. The air pulse generator is sized, shaped, and configured so as to occupy a volume no greater than about 1,200 in.3 and to weigh no more than about 17 lbs.
US08708935B2

A non-invasive variable depth ultrasound treatment method and system comprises a variable depth transducer system configured for providing ultrasound treatment to a patient. An exemplary variable depth transducer system can comprise a transducer configured to provide treatment to more than one region of interest, such as between a deep treatment region of interest and a superficial region of interest, and/or a subcutaneous region of interest. The variable depth transducer can comprise a transduction element having a piezoelectrically active layer, matching layers and/or other materials for generating radiation or acoustical energy. The variable depth transducer may be configured to operate at moderate frequencies within the range from approximately 750 kHz to 20 MHz or more. In addition, the transduction element may be configured with a variable depth device comprising one or more materials configured to allow for control and focusing/defocusing of the acoustic energy to more than one region of interest.
US08708934B2

In general, the disclosure relates to medical devices and systems configured to deliver posture-responsive therapy to a patient. For example, a medical system may detect a posture state of a patient and deliver therapy based at least in part on the detected patient posture state. In some examples, the system comprises a posture state sensor configured to generate first posture sensor data when a patient is in a first posture state. The system may further comprise a processor configured to define posture state reference data corresponding to the first posture state based at least in part on the first posture sensor data, and redefine the posture state reference data based on second posture data generated by the posture state sensor when the patient is in the first posture state.
US08708929B2

A biopsy apparatus includes a driver assembly to be grasped by a user and a disposable biopsy probe assembly for releasable attachment to the driver assembly. The driver assembly includes a first vacuum path having a first one-way valve configured and arranged to permit a negative pressure fluid flow toward a vacuum source and to prevent a positive pressure fluid flow away from the vacuum source. The disposable biopsy probe assembly includes a second vacuum path having a second one-way valve configured and arranged to permit the negative pressure fluid flow from a sample basket and to redundantly prevent the positive pressure fluid flow toward the sample basket. A vacuum monitoring mechanism is coupled to the vacuum source and configured to shut off the vacuum source when a vacuum level in at least one of the first vacuum path and the second vacuum path reaches a predetermined level.
US08708922B2

A local power-delivery/data-reception unit is installed within an insertion end of a sealed catheter. The local power-delivery/data-reception unit wirelessly powers a separately sealed sensor that is attached to the insertion end and configured for wirelessly sending a data signal to the local power-delivery/data-reception unit. The catheter may further feature a remote power-delivery/data-reception unit disposed within the handle and configured for wirelessly communicating with the local power-delivery/data-reception unit and a controller for controlling the sensor.
US08708916B2

An ultrasound diagnostic system includes a connection section for detachably connecting an ultrasound device mounted with a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (C-MUT) and a transmission signal generation section that generates a transmission signal using a connector provided in the ultrasound device and a connector receiver provided in the ultrasound observation apparatus, a discharge section for discharging the charge applied to the C-MUT, a lock mechanism that keeps the connection section in a locked state and a released state and a switching section arranged on a signal line between the C-MUT and the ultrasound observation apparatus, wherein when a predetermined mounting state is set, the C-MUT is electrically connected to the transmission signal generation section via the signal line, and through switching by the switching section after an operation of unlocking the lock mechanism, a state is set in which the charge of the C-MUT of the ultrasound device is discharged.
US08708895B2

A curving control device to which an electrically-controlled endoscope is connected has a main CPU for primarily performing curving driving control, and a monitoring CPU for monitoring whether the operating state relating to curving actions is normal or abnormal. In the event of detecting an abnormality from the monitoring CPU, the curving control device also performs processing for handling the occurrence of the abnormality, such as outputting an emergency stop through an interlock via the main CPU, turning the main power and the like of a servo driver OFF.
US08708889B2

A trocar assembly is presented herein. The trocar assembly can have a hollow elongate member having a first end and a second end. The first end of the hollow elongate member can be open. The first end also can allows an implement to be inserted. The trocar assembly also includes a jaw hingedly coupled to the second end of the hollow elongate member.
US08708887B2

Described are pelvic implants and methods of surgically placing pelvic implants that provide treatment for pelvic floor disorders by support of the levator by creating an incision that allows access to a region of tissue of the pelvic floor and inserting a pelvic implant comprising a tissue support portion delivered by a delivery tool. A pelvic implant for supporting levator tissue comprising: a tissue support portion having a first end and a second; a tissue fastener disposed on the first end of the tissue support portion for fastening it to levator tissue; a guide extension portion disposed on the second end of the tissue support portion; and a support backer member attachable to the guide extension portion to adjust a tension of the tissue support portion and concomitantly the levator tissue.
US08708885B2

Described are implants, tools, and methods useful for treating pelvic conditions such as prolapse, by placing an implant to support pelvic tissue, the implants, tools, and methods involving one or more of an insertion tool that works in coordination with a sheath, adjusting engagements, specific implants and pieces of implants, placement of implants at locations within the pelvic region, and insertion, adjusting, and grommet management tools.
US08708880B2

A thermally insulated container is disclosed. The container comprises an inner layer having a bottom portion with a bottom closure attached to the bottom portion. The container further comprises an outer layer wrapped around the inner layer. The container further comprises an insulating middle layer sandwiched between the inner layer and the outer layer. The middle layer has at least one aperture formed therein.
US08708868B2

A fighting arts shield like device designed to be carried or mounted. Through hitting the apparatus the contestant can condition and develop muscles and technique. The device may be either solid or hollow. The shield front is specifically developed to represent striking areas found on a human target and developed such that a properly delivered strike will land solidly; improper or techniques delivered from the wrong distance will not land appropriately. The backside is uniquely developed with features that enhance the holder's ability to hold and direct the shield thereby enhancing its utility. The shield is carried in a boxing on-guard position. The shield like device may have an optional electrical component that allows measurements to be made of the speed, power and force vectors of strikes where data may be instantaneously presented by audio and visual indicators or disaggregated or used at a later date.
US08708864B2

The aim of the invention is to further develop a bevel friction ring gearing. The invention thus relates to a bevel friction ring gearing in which the friction ring can be displaced by means of an adjusting device that comprises a guide on which an adjusting bridge for the friction ring is arranged in a free axially displaceable manner. The adjusting device comprises a worm-gear drive that engages with the guide.
US08708860B2

A transmission includes an input member, an output member, three 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 include clutches and brakes.
US08708852B2

A vertical spring return valve actuator includes a motor, a first worm gear and a second worm gear driving a sun gear of a planetary gear unit. The sun gear and planetary gears are rotated in a state where a ring gear is fixed by a brake unit during time of a normal operation. Also, a spring shaft, which is coupled to an output shaft of a planetary gear carrier operated cooperatively with the planetary gears , is rotated to permit a valve to be closed. At the time of a blackout, the brake unit is released, so that a spiral spring is unwound to permit the valve to be opened. Further, the valve is opened or closed manually through a valve manual opening and closing unit having a rotation member, a variable worm and a steering wheel.
US08708848B2

To increase the pressing force on a chain as the chain undergoes greater elongation. [Resolving Means] Provision is made for: a tensioner arm 2 in which a through-hole 21a is formed at a free end 21 which can pivot about a pivoting end 20; a hydraulic tensioner 3 for causing the tensioner arm 2 to pivot about the pivoting end 20; a lever arm 4 having a boss part 40 which is rotatably supported in the through-hole 21a at the free end 21 and comprises a pin insertion hole 40a at a position which is offset from the center O of the through-hole 21a, said lever arm also having a lever part 41 which extends from the boss part 40 toward the hydraulic tensioner 3 with the tip end of a piston 3a of the hydraulic tensioner 3 in abutment against it; and a pin 5 of which one end is fitted in a fixed wall 50, and of which the other end is inserted into the pin insertion hole 40a of the boss part 40 of the lever arm 4. When the piston 3a of the hydraulic tensioner 3 extends, the lever arm 4 pivots about the pin 5, whereby the amount of pushing by the free end 21 of the tensioner arm 2 into a chain 104 is increased.
US08708841B2

Systems and methods providing statistical analytics of golf performance including text, tabular, graphic, and image-based outputs that include trends information for the golfer, all based upon actual golf play on course situations, wherein the golfer inputs shot data during play, without interrupting the flow of the game, and uploads the shot data for analytics and review online.
US08708830B2

A torque-limiting coupling may be used to provide a torsion drive between an engine or motor and a driven accessory. If an accessory should experience a catastrophic failure a torsion limit is exceeded and a spline breaks away from the coupling. This guarantees that the internal engine gearing used to drive the accessory is not compromised and interfering with essential moving parts inside the engine. Further, a misalignment compensation limits the side load and wear that occurs when coupling two precision shafts with little clearance on the bearings. With a misalignment coupling, the mount can be slightly out of parallel with no negative effects.
US08708827B2

In a network game system, as well as causing a player to appreciate a growth of a character in accordance with an elapsing of time, to cause the player not to feel a strangeness either in a display of a character which another player is breeding. A visible range of a hypothetical space displayed on a display device for each player participating in a network game is managed. Also, a plurality of parameters, including a number of breeding days, strength, stamina and judgment, are set in a breeding character which each player breeds, and managed in a server apparatus. Although the number of breeding days is updated at a daily prescribed time, the strength, the stamina and the judgment are updated in accordance with details of breeding which each player has carried out for the breeding character. Information relating to a breeding character included in the visible range of each player, regardless of whether the relevant player breeds it or another player breeds it, is included in visible range information transmitted from the server apparatus.
US08708819B2

To increase a variety in playing a game, while achieving an effective utilization of a communication function, by actively using, in a video game, various kinds of information communicated between game apparatus when exchanging information relating to the game by means of wireless communication. Referring to various kinds of information, such as terminal category information, which indicates a category of a terminal transmitted and received by means of wireless communication between a game apparatus main body 10 and another game apparatus main body, terminal identification information for identifying the terminal, software identification information for identifying software of a video game being used in the apparatus main body, and communication history information, which indicates a history of the communication, exchangeable information, which indicates information exchangeable between the apparatus main bodies, is transmitted and received, and the received exchangeable information is converted into usable information, which indicates information usable in a video game of the game apparatus main body 10, and used.
US08708807B2

A wagering system may include a server, an application server, a client device, and a terminal. The wagering system may issue a voucher or a wagering ticket to a client device. Wagers may be placed against the voucher balance and redeemed at the terminal.
US08708802B2

Methods and systems for performing smart matchmaking in a massive multiplayer online game are described herein. A video game such as a vehicle-based combat game may include multiple types of vehicles, where each type of vehicle may progress through increasing tier levels. Different types of vehicles within the same tier may have different capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses. When performing matchmaking for a game session, a matchmaking server may use a battle level table defining permissible tiers of each type of vehicle allowed within a particular battle level, and may also limit the number of a specific type of vehicle allowed in any one game session. The battle table may provide an advantage to premium vehicles by limiting the tiers of other vehicles against which a similarly tiered premium vehicle may compete. Battle level difficulty may be adjusted by adjusting the ranges of permissible vehicles in each battle level.
US08708800B2

The disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a game including a plurality of awards, each of the awards associated with a plurality of award characteristics, including an award value and a level of difficulty. Based at least in part on the award characteristics associated with the awards, a player strategically chooses which award or awards to play for (i.e., which award or awards to attempt to collect) in the game. In certain multiplayer embodiments, two or more players can work together to obtain awards.
US08708791B2

Methods and devices are provided for detecting and/or preventing cheating in online gaming. Some implementations provide gaming information in formats that are difficult for a bot to interpret, but which are preferably easy for humans to interpret. Some implementations of the invention involve the tracking and analysis of players' gaming activities. Some implementations of the invention provide a multi-tier approach to data analysis. Some analysis may be performed, for example, by a centralized computing device such as a server, whereas other analysis may be performed by a host device. In some implementations, “challenge and response” measures will be employed. Some implementations of the invention involve detection and prevention of collaboration between players.
US08708790B2

The present invention provides methods for playing a multi-player, online game in which players build virtual worlds by placing game objects into a game space and may consolidate multiple game objects into a single object such that the new consolidated object maintains some or all of the features of the original, separate objects but occupies less game space.
US08708789B2

A system for wagering on a jackpot race event, comprises a memory and a processor. The memory stores a qualifying bet associated with a customer and comprising a first bet component and a second bet component. The first bet component is associated with a first qualifying race event and comprises a first bet amount. The second bet component is associated with a second qualifying race event and comprises a second bet amount. The processor identifies the outcome of the first and second bet components. If both the first bet component and the second bet components are winning bets, the processor allocates to the customer a particular number of jackpot bets for a jackpot race event. The particular number of jackpot bets is based at least in part upon the first bet amount and the second bet amount. The first bet amount is allocated to a common pari-mutuel pool for the first qualifying race event.
US08708775B2

The invention relates to a method for grinding a continuous casting product (1), in particular a slab, wherein the continuous casting product (1) in the cross-section has a rectangular contour comprising two long sides (2, 3) disposed opposite of each other and two short sides (4, 5) disposed opposite of each other, wherein in a working position (A), in which the continuous casting product (1) rests on a grinding table (6) with one of the long sides (2) thereof, one of the long sides (2) of the continuous casting product (1) is subjected to a surface treatment by means of at least one grinding tool (7). In order to achieve a higher quality in a simple and fast manner when working the continuous casting product and to be able to collect the grinding chips in a simple manner in the process, after or before grinding the long side (2) of the continuous casting product (1) in the working position (A), according to the invention at least one of the short sides (4, 5) is subjected to a surface treatment using the at least one grinding tool (7). The invention further relates to a device for grinding a continuous casting product (1).
US08708774B2

An automatic grinding machine for end mills for wood, programmable with optical reading of geometric features and for computerized sharpening, has a compact structure, which includes a computerized control panel actuating various assemblies adapted for automated sharpening. A first optical reading assembly has an arm for automatic movement from an inactive position to a position suited for detecting the geometric features of the end mill. A second assembly for holding the end mill is configured to move on command forward and backward and/or simultaneously rotate the mill about its own axis. A third assembly for supporting a cup grinding wheel is mounted on the vertical frame, which rests on a rotatable circular and horizontal base. The grinding wheel can move above and below, longitudinally along the mill and/or in front of it, on the right and left side to sharpen end mills for wood with a left-handed or right-handed helix.
US08708773B2

An anomaly-correcting brassiere of assumed positions of asymmetrical bosoms using interconnecting patches of loops and hooks for shoulder straps constituted as closed loops and non-elastic construction material to maintain symmetrical and obviate asymmetrical bosom conditions.
US08708766B2

A child's activity toy having a support board to which a variety of differently colored discs can be magnetically attached. The colored discs are dispensed with disc dispenser pens adapted to house and dispense the discs, and thus create a colored image. The image created can be viewed using 3D imaging technology, and an enhanced visual effect can be observed when the images are observed under Ultraviolet light. A disc collection and sorting system is also included in the activity toy of the present invention.
US08708761B2

A vessel propulsion apparatus includes an exhaust passage guiding exhaust generated at an engine, a water jacket cooling at least a portion of the exhaust passage, a cooling device supplying water outside the vessel propulsion apparatus to the water jacket, an exhaust sensor detecting a concentration of a component in the exhaust in the exhaust passage, and a non-catalytic porous member disposed in the exhaust passage at an upstream side relative to the exhaust sensor. The non-catalytic porous member is a porous member that does not hold a catalyst.
US08708755B2

A connection blade, an intermediate connection electrical connector and a connection blade assembly including the connection blade are provided. The connection blade includes an insulation board. The insulation board includes differential pair circuits thereon. The differential pair circuits include a straight pair and a cross pair. Both of the straight pair and the cross pair includes a parallel section where wire paths of the pair extend in parallel. In a region other than the parallel section, the cross pair includes a crossing section where wire paths thereof intersect with each other. In a region other than the parallel section, the straight pair includes a quasi-crossing section where wire paths thereof approach each other in non-contact manner so that the wire paths thereof have the same length and the same shape with that of the cross pair, thereby reducing difference of impedance and manufacturing cost.
US08708743B2

A shield for an electrical connector comprises a conductive housing configured to enclose an exposed portion of at least one electrical connector. The shield further comprises at least one opening formed in the conductive housing configured to allow a corresponding mating portion of each of the at least one electrical connectors to be exposed. The shield further comprises and a plurality of conductive points located along at least one circumferential path within the conductive housing remote from the at least one opening.
US08708742B2

A card connector includes an insulating housing having a pair of side walls of which one protrudes outward to form two stop blocks spaced along a front-to-rear direction, a plurality of electrical terminals disposed in the insulating housing, an upper shielding shell covered downward on the insulating housing, and a lower shielding shell covered upward under the insulating housing. The upper shielding shell has a top plate and a pair of side plates of which one is die-cut to form a positioning slice restricted between the stop blocks of the corresponding side wall. A front of each side plate is punched outward to form a vertical arched restricting portion. The lower shielding shell has a bottom plate and a pair of lateral plates of which a front of each top edge is concaved downward to form a restricting gap buckling the corresponding restricting portion therein.
US08708739B2

A connector (10M; 10M) is provided with a front wall (26F; 26M) arranged to face the front end of a housing (11F; 11M), a front retainer (25F; 25M) including detecting portions (27F; 27M) to be fit into deformation spaces (14F; 14M) in an assembled state, and restrictions (41F, 42F, 43F, 44F; 41M, 42M, 43M, 44M) for restricting relative displacements of the housing (11F; 11M) and the front retainer (25F, 25M) in a direction crossing an assembling direction.
US08708738B1

A cable connector for four cables. The connector has a body, a pair of clamps, and a screw. The body has an attachment portion to attach to a cable carrier and a clamping portion extending upwardly from the attachment portion. The clamping portion widens into a generally rectangular cavity defined by opposed short walls and opposed tall walls. A divider between the tall walls bisects the cavity. The clamps are L-shaped with a clamping face and a foot. Cables are passed through the attachment portion and the cavity with two cables between one clamp and the divider and the other two cables between the second clamp and the divider. The screw fits into a hole in one clamp, through a hole in the divider, and into a threaded hole in the other clamp. The screw is tightened until the cables are held securely.
US08708735B2

A shunt connector assembly for electrical systems comprises a body including a first, a second and a third coupling portion (6, 7, 8) for coupling to respective connectors. The contacts of the first and second coupling portions (6, 7) are defined by the opposite ends of a first group of metal pins of circular section (R1) received inside the body (2) of the connector assembly. The contacts of the third coupling portion (8) are defined by first ends of a second group of metal pins of circular section (R2) arranged parallel to and spaced from the pins of the first group. Each pin of the first group (R1) is electrically connected to a respective pin of the second group (R2) by a metal bridging element in the form of a planar lamina extending substantially in the plane containing the axes of the pins connected by said bridging element and integrally incorporating at each end a bent back-portion defining a resiliently deformable open bushing that surrounds and clasps a respective metal pin (R1, R2).
US08708730B2

Embodiments of the present invention disclose a wireless Internet device. The wireless Internet device includes a device body (1) with an accommodation space, a connection interface (2) set in the accommodation space, and a subscriber identity module (SIM) card holder (3) configured to install a SIM card, where a push-locking apparatus (4, 5) is also set in the accommodation space; the push-locking apparatus (4, 5) includes a push part (41, 51) and a locking part (42, 52); the push part (41, 51) is connected to the locking part (42, 52). The solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention can achieve a purpose that the SIM card holder (3) cannot be randomly plugged in and out when the wireless Internet device works.
US08708727B2

Each feed-through pin of a multiple-phase, high voltage plug-pin connector comprises at least one conductor having a first insulation layer extending along at least part of its length, the insulation layer having an enlarged, load-bearing portion of non-circular cross-section having oppositely directed projections, configured for engagement in a correspondingly shaped bore portion of the connector shell. The load-bearing portions may be of a rhomboidal cross sectional shape with rounded corners, with a first diagonal length shorter than a second diagonal length. The pins are spaced around the central longitudinal axis of the shell with the shorter diagonal of each load-bearing portion extending radially and the oppositely directed projections extending into the radial spaces in the shell between adjacent pins. This arrangement allows space within a limited diameter feed through hole for the enlarged, load-bearing shoulder portions of the insulation layer.
US08708720B2

A device for clamping in a slot an electronic card including contacts insertable into connectors, guided by the slot between a first position of the electronic card, the extraction position, where the contacts are not inserted into the connectors, and a second position, the insertion position, where said contacts are fully inserted into the connectors; the device includes clamping means, means of controlling the clamping means, tightening means comprising a first eccentric having a pivoting connection with the electronic card able to control the clamping means, and the tightening means in a second eccentric working with means forming a bearing surface to produce an instantaneous center of rotation of the tightening means on the bearing surface when the electronic card is in the insertion position and the tightening means are operated around the pivot axis for inserting the electronic card.
US08708712B2

The connector includes a male connector block and a female connector block. The male connector block includes a base substrate formed of an insulating flat member; a conductive projection arranged on one surface of the base substrate; a first circuit pattern led out from the conductive projection; and a soldering terminal section electrically connected to the conductive projection through the first circuit pattern. The female connector block includes: an insulating film having a fitting insertion section; a conductive section formed on one surface of the insulating film and electrically connected to the conductive projection inserted into the fitting insertion section; a second circuit pattern led out from the conductive section; a soldering terminal section electrically connected to the conductive section through the second circuit pattern; and a second base substrate making close contact with the other surface of the insulating film.
US08708711B2

A connecting terminal structure includes a supporting body; a plurality of first electrode pads provided on a first side of the supporting body; a plurality of second electrode pads provided on a second side of the supporting body; a flexible substrate configured to electrically connect the first electrode pads to the second electrode pads; and a plurality of connecting terminals joined to at least one of the first electrode pads and the second electrode pads.
US08708710B2

An electronic structure (for example a reliability board or a cycling control module) has a body including a body portion insertable into a connector. A plurality of contact structures are provided on a side of the body portion, each contact structure comprising a first contact and a second contact spaced from the first contact, with the first and second contacts of each contact structure being aligned in the direction of insertion of the body portion into the connector. A corresponding second plurality of contact structures is provided on a side of the body portion opposite the first-mentioned side. These contacts connect with respective corresponding contacts of the connector.
US08708706B2

A floatable skier training device that includes a first floatable support comprising a first leading end and a second end, a second floatable support a first leading end and a second end, a seat (e.g., an arcuate seat) extending from the first floatable support to the second floatable support, the arcuate seat having a first forward section, a second rearward section, a top and a bottom, when the device is placed on a body of water, the bottom forms an angle with the surface of the body of water that is no greater than 45 degrees, and a method of using the same to allow a user to start from a position above the water.
US08708699B2

Drill guide (1) for use in the dental field, comprising a grip (10), a bearing surface intended to bear at least partially on a template (50) or a drill sleeve (55), and at least one guide sleeve (20) having a longitudinal slit (30). The grip (10) has a top face and an underside. The at least one guide sleeve (20) is essentially hollow and cylindrical, has an upper end and a lower end, and protrudes from the underside of the grip (10).
US08708692B2

An apparatus for facilitating removal and installation of mold insert members of a mold assembly from and into the clamp unit of an injection molding machine comprising a material distributing sub-assembly from which at least one material distributing nozzle projects, the apparatus comprises a two-part frame comprising an ejector part, an injection part being releasably connectable to the material distributing sub-assembly, and support pins spanning between the ejector part and the injection part when the injection part is separated from the material distributing sub-assembly, and guide elements projecting from the material distributing sub-assembly to engage a mold insert member received in the injection part and effective to align that mold insert member relative to the material distributing sub-assembly. The two-part frame comprises first clearance bores and second clearance bores allowing protrusion into the mold insert member of, respectively, the material distributing nozzles and the guide elements.
US08708684B2

In dental crown restoration, a dental shade guide which is selected to match patient's teeth comprises a shade-guide portion and a handle. A molding device for molding the dental shade guide comprises a molding plate having a shade-guide molding portion and a handle-holding groove. The molding plate is closed by a cover. While the handle is held in the handle-holding groove of the molding plate, dental composite resin paste is filled in the shade-guide molding portion and the upper surface of the molding plate is tightly pressed by the inner surface of the cover.
US08708683B2

A mold-tool system for use with a molding-system platen structure, the mold-tool system a frame assembly being connectable with the molding-system platen structure (107); and a set of shooting-pot assemblies being supported by the frame assembly, wherein control of each shooting-pot assembly of the set of shooting-pot assemblies is independent.
US08708679B2

A vane pump of the intravane type for pumping hydraulic fluid, wherein each vane of the pump has two intravanes and that pressurized oil is provided to one or both intravane regions when the vane is in a rise region of the pump. The pump is operated such that the pressurized oil is provided to both undervane regions when the pump is running at low speed but the pressurized oil is provided to only one of the undervane regions when of the pump is running at high speed.
US08708675B2

Systems and methods of cooling a motor of an electrical submersible pump (ESP) assembly employed in an electrical submersible subsea booster pumping system, are provided. A supporting frame structure such as an ESP mounting skid or top end assembly of a caisson having structural members exposed to environmental seawater, is modified or designed to include fluid conduits within the structural members to establish lubricant pathways for lubricant to flow. A heated/hot lubricant line connects between a supporting structure lubricant inlet port and an ESP motor lubricant outlet port. A cooled lubricant line connects between a supporting structure lubricant outlet port and an ESP motor lubricant inlet port. A pump or other fluid moving device circulates lubricant from the ESP motor to the lubricant pathways within the supporting frame structure, whereby the seawater cools the lubricant contained therein, which is then circulated back into the motor to assisting cooling the motor.
US08708670B2

An object of the invention is to provide a structure for coupling two rotary shafts, which can be made smaller in size. A driving shaft for pumps is rotatably supported by a first bearing and a second bearing, while a rotary shaft of an electric motor is rotatably supported by the second bearing and a third bearing. Each one end of the driving shaft and the rotary shaft is inserted into the common second bearing, so that rotation of the rotary shaft is transmitted to the driving shaft.
US08708667B2

A fuel pump assembly for a fuel injection system comprises a drive shaft, at least two pump heads each of which is axially displaced along the drive shaft, each pump head having a respective plunger for pressurising fuel within a respective pump chamber, and at least two cams provided on the drive shaft, each of which is associated with a respective one of the pump heads. Adjacent pump heads are offset angularly from one another by an amount sufficient to allow a region of overlap, in an axial direction along the drive shaft, between the adjacent pump heads.
US08708666B2

A multi-stage compressor (1) for compressing gases with a low-pressure region (2) and a high-pressure region (5), wherein at least one rotary compressor (3) is provided in the low-pressure region (2), and at least one reciprocating piston compressor (6) with two cylinders (7) is provided in the high-pressure region (5), and wherein a common engine (4) is provided for driving the rotary compressor (3) and the reciprocating piston compressor (6), wherein the cylinders (7) are arranged to be rotated relative to each other by 180° in the high-pressure region (5).
US08708660B2

The present disclosure provides an improved second stage airfoil for a compressor blade having a unique chord length (CD) stagger angle (γ) and camber angle (Δβ). The stagger angle (γ) and camber angle (Δβ) provide improved aerodynamics while the chord length (CD) provides for reduced airfoil weight.
US08708639B2

The present application provides an axial flow turbine. The axial flow turbine may include a stator casing and a turbine bucket positioned about the stator casing. A tip shroud may be positioned on the turbine bucket. A shroud tail may be attached to the tip shroud at a downstream end of the tip shroud.
US08708635B2

A compact roll-off trailer is short and light, but able to carry a large load. As such, the unit competes with roll-off trucks. A horizontally tilt frame has a forward section coupled to a king-pin assembly, a rear section with wheels on at least two axles, and a mid section. A frameless version uses a set of opposing arms as opposed to a separate, non-tilting frame. A single hydraulic cylinder has a retracted state wherein the lift frame is generally horizontal for hauling, and an extended state wherein the lift frame is pivoted at an angle for loading and unloading. A mechanism may be provided for extending the rearward portion of the lift frame to ground level when the hoist frame is pivoted, and a mechanism for pulling a cable with a container attached thereto onto the lift frame for hauling. The mechanism for extending the rearward portion of the lift frame may either include a ‘stinger tail’ or a slide frame on the lift frame a hydraulic cylinder for extending and retracting the slide frame. The latter configuration may include one or two sets of rollers to accommodate both ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ type containers. A “dead-lift” container-pulling mechanism may also be provided.
US08708633B2

The present invention relates to a container tilting apparatus which includes at least one base section, and at least two tilt arms, with each of the tilt arms being pivotably connected to a base section. The apparatus also includes at least two container locks with each container lock being configured to engage a tilt arm with a side wall of a container. Also included is at least one tilt arm drive configured to pivot a tilt arm relative to a base section. The apparatus is arranged so that at least one tilt arm is pivotably connected to a base section at a point offset from the center of the tilt arm.
US08708630B1

Fastener apparatus including a self-adjusting and automatically self-leveling head separate from a threaded shank portion. An embodiment self-leveling head portion defines an annular conical recess and lip portion sized to receive a seal. A threaded shank resides within an annular cup center of the self-leveling head and has a thread-free portion seated by the compressed seal creating a water tight seal. Embodiments for sheet metal screw and bolt fasteners not requiring seals are disclosed.
US08708629B2

The present invention relates to a thread clamping device including a plurality of movable nut segments around a threaded rod, and spring members flexibly holding the segments against the rod. The thread clamping device has a structure adapted to accommodate substantially planar outer surfaces of the segments engaging planar surfaces of the end housing of the device, leading to a more robust device and improved performance. Such a thread clamping device can advantageously be used as a component of a self-adjusting shrinkage compensation device, a coupler for threaded rods, hold-downs, among other uses. Various embodiments of the thread clamping device include a multi nut configuration, a quick release, and including mechanical or magnetic clip attachments.
US08708627B2

A wheel lug nut locking device having first and second planar sections, each with an opening adapted to be fitted around a wheel lug nut. The planar sections are connected by a flexible section that allows the planar sections to be moved relative to one another. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible section has a concertina-like structure. In use, the locking device is used to lock a wheel lug nut to an adjacent wheel lug nut, so as to prevent or reduce rotation of the wheel lug nut. A plurality of locking devices can be fitted to a single wheel so that all of the lug nuts are operatively locked to an adjacent lug nut. The resulting locking system can be rapidly installed on each lug nut on all wheels, so as to provide improved safety aspects.
US08708620B2

A tool holder is provided that prevents chattering in a large-sized cutting tool. A tool holder 1 includes an anti-vibration device provided in a radially outer portion of a body. The anti-vibration device has a ring-shaped first anti-vibration member and a second anti-vibration member. The anti-vibration device is fixed to the body together with a cutting tool T1 by means of a bolt. Four O-rings are arranged on both sides of the first anti-vibration member, and the damper property is adjusted by pressing a pressing plate with adjuster bolts. An appropriate gap is formed between the first anti-vibration member and the body and between the first anti-vibration member and the second anti-vibration member.
US08708619B2

In one embodiment of the present invention, a power tool includes a housing having a first opening formed therein with a motor being contained within the housing. The tool includes a device for sharpening a writing implement. The sharpening device is at least partially contained within the housing and accessible through the first opening which permits the writing implement to be inserted into the sharpening device. The sharpening device is operatively connected to the motor such that operation of the motor drives the sharpening device.
US08708613B2

In a cutting tool used for internal machining operations, a cutting insert with a single cutting portion is removably secured to an insert holder. The cutting insert has two opposing end surfaces, and an insert peripheral surface extending therebetween having three spaced apart abutment surfaces. The insert holder has a holder portion with a holder peripheral surface and an adjacent seating surface. At least one protuberance having four spaced apart reaction surfaces protrudes from the seating surface. The cutting insert is securable to the holding portion in left-hand and right-hand assembly positions, with the three abutment surfaces in clamping contact with three of the four reaction surfaces. In the left-hand assembly position, a first end surface is in clamping contact with the seating surface, and in the right-hand assembly position, a second end surface is in clamping contact with the seating surface.
US08708604B2

The present invention provides a system and method that keeps a barge and grillage system on the barge in compression with a topsides supported by the grillage system during the transport, while providing a quick release system between the barge, grillage system, and topsides during an installation procedure that transfers the topsides to an offshore platform. The quick release system can be in tension to apply a compressive force between the grillage system and the topsides until the quick release system is released.
US08708593B2

A cross-flexural pivot includes a first structure with a first longitudinal axis; a second structure with a second longitudinal axis; an inner flexure member, and an outer flexure member. The inner flexure member includes a face disposed obliquely to the first and second longitudinal axes and is coupled to the first structure at a first side and the second structure at a second side opposing the first side. The outer flexure member includes a tubular face surrounding the inner flexure member, the tubular face being disposed obliquely to the first and second longitudinal axes. The outer flexure member is coupled to the first structure at the second side and to the second structure at the first side.
US08708590B2

A method including printing an image onto a medium and printing an alignment region onto the medium. The method further including loading the medium to an electronic cutter and aligning the medium with the electronic cutter. The method further including cutting the image from the medium.
US08708585B2

An imaging apparatus includes a first terminal and a second terminal and a control unit configured to perform switching between a first communication mode for outputting a clock signal via the first terminal and communicating with a mounted lens unit via the second terminal based on the clock signal and a second communication mode for communicating with the mounted lens unit via the first terminal or the second terminal without using the clock signal. The control unit continuously sets the first communication mode if the second communication mode is not usable for the mounted lens unit. On the other hand, the control unit sets the second communication mode if the second communication mode is available for the mounted lens unit and sets a baud rate to communicate with the lens unit in the second communication mode to be a baud rate value received from the lens unit.
US08708581B2

A mirror arrangement for reflex cameras is provided. A main mirror is pivotably connected to a steering lever, which is rotatable about a rotary spindle, such that the main mirror is pivoted and lowered during transition into the lower position. A secondary mirror is rotatably mounted to a housing via a pivot arm that is arranged pivotably about a rotary spindle that is fixed to the housing. The rotary spindle of the pivot arm is parallel to the rotary spindle of the steering lever. The mirror arrangement further comprises an actuating lever, which is connected to the main mirror and the pivot arm of the secondary mirror. The actuating lever is configured to provide simultaneous movement of the main mirror and of the secondary mirror from the upper position into the lower position and vice versa.
US08708580B2

A cable assembly includes an insulative housing having a main portion, and a mating portion extending forwardly from the mating portion. An optical device is attached to the housing and has a pair of optical module movable accommodated in the mating portion along a front-to-back direction for optical transmitting. The optical modules each has a seat and a number of lenses supported by the seat. The pair of optical modules are adapted for connecting two corresponding connectors, respectively, and a combination of the pair of the optical modules is also adapted for connecting a single corresponding connector.
US08708578B2

An apparatus, in accordance with particular embodiments, includes an interface configured to establish connections within a copper network. The apparatus also includes a receptacle configured to receive a conventional small form-factor pluggable (SFP) module or a compact SFP module and to direct the SFP modules to a first connector. The first connector connects either of the SFP modules to the node. A pin of the first connector is configured to receive a module detection signal and to transmit data to the compact SFP module. The apparatus also includes a low pass filter coupled to the pin of the first connector that passes the module detection signal to the node. The apparatus is further configured to establish two duplex connections with an optical fiber network if the compact SFP module is connected and to establish one duplex connection with the optical fiber network if the conventional SFP module is connected.
US08708577B2

In an aspect there is provided a connector device. The connector device may include a cable connector having a housing having an opening at a first end and a cable gland at a second end; and a sleeve having an internal channel configured to interchangeably couple with an electrical transceiver module type and an optical transceiver module type. The internal channel may extend between a first end and a second end of the sleeve. The first end of the sleeve may be configured to insert through the opening in the housing to releasably couple the sleeve to the housing. The second end of the sleeve may be configured to insert through a port on a unit and couple the electrical transceiver to an edge connector on a printed circuit board (PCB) when the electrical transceiver is coupled with the sleeve. The second end of the sleeve may be further configured to insert through the port on the unit and couple the optical transceiver to the edge connector on the PCB when the optical transceiver is coupled with the sleeve. Related systems and methods are also described.
US08708573B2

A connector system comprising: a multi-plug connector, each plug having a housing and a ferrule, said housing having a front and back orientation and having a front face defining an opening, said ferrule being disposed within said opening, said housing defining a first keying element on said front face around said opening, at least two housings of said multi-plug connector having different said first keying elements.
US08708569B2

In a wheel rolling bearing device, where a pitch diameter of the inner-row ball set is D1 and a pitch diameter of the outer-row ball set is D2, D1 and D2 are set so as to satisfy the relationship “D1
US08708561B2

In an exemplary embodiment, an imaging apparatus comprises an arm assembly coupled to an imaging arm. The arm assembly includes a shoulder joint, an elbow joint, and an articulation assembly. The shoulder joint is configured to travel a vertical distance in a substantially linear fashion and provide rotational movement. The imaging arm comprises a first end and a second end. As such, the imaging apparatus is configured to provide radial motion along a path equal to the length of the arm assembly and the imaging arm along the vertical distance and the horizontal distance of the shoulder joint. The imaging apparatus may also comprise a movable cabinet, a monitor, and a control, with the arm assembly coupled to the movable cabinet. Furthermore, the imaging arm may comprise an x-ray source and a sensor, with the monitor displaying data detected by the sensor.
US08708560B2

The invention relates to a method for the temperature-dependent adjustment of the color properties or the photometric properties of an LED illuminating device having LEDs emitting light of different colors or wavelengths or LED color groups emitting light of the same color or wavelength within a color group, the luminous flux portions thereof determine the color of light, color temperature and/or the chromaticity coordinates of the light mixture emitted by the LED illuminating device.
US08708558B2

A temperature detecting apparatus for adjusting heat dissipating angle of a fan according to status of heat sources, includes detection module, a comparison module, a control module, and a driver module. The detection module detects temperatures of the heat sources, and converts the detected temperatures to voltage signals. The comparison module receives the voltage signals, and compares the voltage signals with a reference voltage to output control signals. The control module receives the control signals, and turns on according to the control signals. The driver module drives a plurality of air guiding fins rotating thereon. A direction of current flowing through the driver module is adjustable when the control module turns on. The driver module drives the air guiding fins turning toward to guide air flowing to one of the heat sources according to the direction of the current.
US08708554B2

A leak detection apparatus for aircraft bleed air systems includes a supporting spacer positioned within the shroud and supported upon the bleed air duct of the aircraft. A sleeve supported on the exterior of the shroud further supports a plenum having generally cylindrical sensor tubes through which sensor wire sets pass. A director positioned within the shroud above the bleed air duct is coupled to a generally cylindrical accumulator which in turn is in communication with the plenum. Appropriate apertures are provided to vent and direct bleed air from the shroud interior to the sensor wire sets and thereafter vent outwardly into cooler ambient air. The sensor wire sets respond to the temperature of the bleed air leakage to trigger alarm apparatus.
US08708553B2

The present application is directed to a system for verifying calibration of a temperature sensor comprising an above-ambient temperature verifier and a below-ambient temperature verifier. The above-ambient temperature verifier includes a first housing containing an ohmic material. At least one pair of electrodes is provided to direct an applied current through the ohmic material to heat the material. A well is provided within the ohmic material for accepting a temperature sensor. A compression assembly cooperates with the ohmic material to create intimate contact with the temperature sensor. An above-ambient reference temperature monitor maintains a calibrated temperature within the ohmic material. The below-ambient temperature verifier includes a second housing and a below-ambient reference temperature monitor to maintain a calibrated temperature of a below-ambient temperature medium. The system further includes the ability to log all temperature test measurements from an RFID tag located on each temperature sensor to be verified.
US08708547B2

A present invention provides for a system (100) for injecting cooling fluid into a concrete mixing container (502), the system (100) comprising a support structure (116) having a leg assembly with two or more supporting legs (201) and a cross member beam (200) supported between said two or more legs (201), the two or more legs (201) and the cross member beam (200) being positioned with respect to one another in such a manner as to define a passageway (210) of sufficient height (H) and width (W) between the two or more legs (201) and beneath the cross member beam (200) to allow passage of a concrete mixer truck (504) through the passageway (210) and a lance device (190) positioned on the cross member beam (200) of the support structure (116), the lance device (190) comprising an articulated arm that includes a rigid lance (102) which allows for the flow of a cooling fluid there through; and a means for acting on the articulated arm to cause pivotal movement of the articulated arm in a non-linear motion thereby controlling the angle of the rigid lance (102) while at the same time controlling the insertion and retraction movement of the rigid lance (102) into the concrete mixing container (502) for fluid injection of the cooling fluid into the concrete mixing container (502). The present invention further comprises a process for injecting cooling fluid into a concrete mixing container (502).
US08708543B2

There is herein described a light engine that emits a light. The light engine includes a light source, a light guide, a plurality of extraction optical elements, and a plurality of phosphors. The light guide receives the light. The extraction optical elements are on the surface of the light guide. The extraction optical elements extract at least a portion of the light out of the light guide. The phosphors are disposed on top of at least some of the extraction optical elements.
US08708537B2

A lighting apparatus is provided that, while suppressing an increase in size, can change the illuminating direction. The lighting apparatus has: a laser generator which emits laser light; a light emitting member which is irradiated with the laser light emitted from the laser generator to emit light; an irradiated position changer which moves and thereafter stops an irradiated position at which the light emitting member is irradiated with the laser light; and a light projecting member which projects the light emitted from the light emitting member.
US08708536B1

An optic assembly has a reflector with a reflective surface, one or more light sources, and mask assembly with one or more apertures. Light rays from a light source are refocused and substantially converged before being emitted through one or more apertures in the mask assembly.
US08708528B2

A lamp unit with a relay lens that allows two different focus points. Two different optical altering elements are hence simultaneously in focus. The elements can be taken in and out of focus to allow different effects.
US08708519B2

An LED conversion module for converting an incandescent work light to an LED work light includes an enclosure housing a plurality of LEDs, wherein at least a portion of the enclosure permits light generated from the LEDs to pass therethrough. A screw base is coupled to the enclosure and extends outwardly therefrom. The screw base provides electrical communication between the LEDs and a screw-type light socket disposed in a work light handle. A hook is coupled to the enclosure to facilitate hanging the LED conversion module and handle from a support structure.
US08708517B2

The luminaire comprises a housing including at least one optical module. The optical module has a plurality of light emitting diodes disposed within a reflector. The reflector includes opposed curved longitudinal walls and opposed curved end walls.
US08708513B2

A system for creating a lighted apparel design includes a light element and a securing member. The securing member has a base and a capture portion. The capture portion is located, at least in part, attached to the base and defines a capture region configured to releasably secure the light element therein. The securing member is secured to an associated apparel item and the light element secured in the capture region to create a lighted design on the apparel item. A lighted apparel item is also disclosed.
US08708511B2

A semiconductor light source apparatus can emit various color lights having a substantially uniform color tone and high brightness. The semiconductor light source apparatus can include a radiating substrate, at least one phosphor layer disposed on the radiating substrate and a semiconductor light source emitting blue light. The at least one phosphor layer can be composed of at least one of a glass phosphor and a phosphor ceramic. The light source can be located adjacent the phosphor layer so that the blue light having high brightness can be efficiently reflected on the radiating substrate via the phosphor layer while preventing the blue light from a mirror reflection on the phosphor layer. Thus, the disclosed subject matter can provide a semiconductor light source apparatus that can emit various uniform color lights having high brightness and a lighting unit using the light source apparatus, which can be used for general lighting, vehicle lighting etc.
US08708507B2

The magnifying apparatus is based on two dimensional arrays of micro magnifying modules (MMMs) positioned along a plane perpendicular to the axis of the magnifying apparatus. In addition, the structure may include a two dimensional array of micro beam multipliers (MBMs) to improve the quality of the magnified image. The micro beam multipliers are positioned along a plane parallel to the array of micro magnifying modules. The structure also may include a two dimensional array of ray angle adjusters (RAAs) to extend the view angle. The ray angle adjusters are positioned along a plane parallel to the array of micro magnifying modules. The array of micro magnifying modules, with or without the micro beam multipliers and/or ray angle adjusters, may be constructed as a thin plate with a thickness of a few millimeters, through which the object is viewed. An object at a distance appears in the magnifying apparatus as a magnified image and the magnifying apparatus can be used for viewing an object at a distance in a way similar to the use of a conventional magnifier for viewing an object in a short distance.
US08708506B1

A frozen surface technology is provided that can be used to provide a precisely defined surface. The frozen surface technology can include the use of a frozen membrane. For instance, frozen membrane mirrors and methods of producing frozen membrane mirrors are provided. The frozen membrane mirror includes a membrane material having a reflective surface. Active control is used to maintain a desired figure of the reflective surface while a solidifying material is applied to a back side of the membrane material. Active control of the figure of the reflective surface is maintained while the solidifying material cures. Once the solidifying material has been applied and cured, active control can be removed. The frozen surface technology also enables the formation of a surface with a precisely defined shape from a shell material that is brought into a flexible state, is actively controlled to achieve the desired surface shape, and that continues to be actively controlled until the shell material has been brought into a fixed or frozen state.
US08708502B2

The projection type image display apparatus is equipped with a lamp unit (22), an optical block (21) which modulates light from the lamp unit and projects an image signal, a circuit board (24) having via holes and on which an external connector (25) is mounted, and a cabinet (2) for housing the aforementioned elements. The display apparatus is equipped with a back cover (26) provided to cover around the external connector from the outside and a dustproof cover (29) provided to cover around the external connector from the inside. A closed space is formed by the circuit board, the back cover (26) and the dustproof cover (29), and the dustproof cover closely shields at least a space below the circuit board from the exterior. Excellent dustproof characteristics enabling use even in installation environments with a large amount of dust and dirt can be obtained.
US08708500B2

A projection device capable of effectively performing the light utilization is disclosed, particularly comprising polarized beam components and reflective components regarded for controlling polarizing of light, reducing light missing during light transferring from a light source to a projection lens set, increase light utilization efficiency, wherein the polarizing beam components are regarded for separating the light into two orthogonal polarization waves; the present invention further comprises two modulated diaphragms regarded for controlling the strength of said two orthogonal polarization waves, equaling brightness of the polarization waves at final vision, keeping a good quality in final vision.
US08708492B2

An apparatus including an illumination unit for illuminating an eye to be inspected with light from an observation light source or light from a photographing light source; an photographing unit for guiding reflected light from the eye to an photographing element, to record an image thereof; a calculation unit for calculating an appropriate observation or photographing light intensity based on an illumination light intensity of the illumination unit and an image signal of the photographing element; an automatic light intensity adjustment unit for causing one of the observation and photographing light sources to emit light at the calculated light intensity; and a control unit for controlling the adjustment unit according to a selected one of a mode of acquiring the fundus image and a mode of acquiring the anterior ocular image.
US08708488B2

A method for carrying out eye surgery comprises a comparison of images recorded before surgery with images recorded during surgery in order to generate a marker which represents a target orientation of an intraocular lens or a difference between a current orientation and the target orientation of the intraocular lens. An eye surgery system respectively comprises an imaging system which is used during a surgery and has a camera, and a diagnostic system which is used before surgery and which also has a camera. The imaging system used during surgery comprises an image processing device in order to perform a computation based on the recorded images, and in order to determine a respective orientation value, from which a representation of a marker representing the target orientation of the intraocular lens is obtained.
US08708481B2

There is provided an ink-jet recording apparatus including: a first transporting portion provided in a first transport path; a support member configured to support the sheet; a recording portion; a plurality of contact portions configured to come into contact with the sheet; a plurality of support ribs; a second transporting portion provided in a second transport path connected with the first transport path; and a third transporting portion configured to sandwich and transport the sheet in the first transporting direction or toward the second transport path. On the upstream side to the second transporting portion in the second transporting direction, a projecting portion is formed with the upper guide member to project toward the lower guide member below a virtual line linking a nip position of the sheet due to the third transporting portion with another nip position of the sheet due to the second transporting portion.
US08708480B2

A recording apparatus includes: a medium support section which supports a recording medium by a medium support surface having a penetration portion; a recording process section which performs a recording process on the recording medium; a suction device which is connected to the medium support section and makes suction power act on the recording medium through the penetration portion; and a control section which controls driving of the suction device, wherein a mesh member of a convex shape which is provided so as to be related to the penetration portion and protrudes farther than the medium support surface is provided at the medium support section, and the mesh member is configured so as to be able to be elastically deformed when the suction power acts on the recording medium of the suction device.
US08708478B1

A method for printing on a shiny surface by a UV inkjet printer with transparency and high color density is described. Steps of the method include: (a) according to a conveying direction of a workpiece, dividing the workpiece with a reflective film into a plurality of continuous printing areas; (b) performing a printing operation on each printing area of the reflective film of the workpiece for at least three times; and (c) turning on a UV lamp at one side of an inkjet module when a final printing operation is performed on each printing area, to cure ink jetted from the inkjet module, thereby enabling the reflective film of the workpiece to still retain high shininess and high transparency after printing of the workpiece with a transparent reflective film surface is completed, and enabling a pattern printed thereon to have high color density.
US08708474B2

An ink composition includes a compound having a structure represented by the following Formula (I), a polymerization initiator and water; wherein, in Formula (I), R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; X1 represents —O— or —NH—; A1 represents —O— or —NH—; M1 represents a metal atom; and n represents an integer of from 1 to 10.
US08708473B2

Inkjet recording treatment liquids include: at least one water-soluble organic solvent; water; at least one compound according to formula (I) wherein: each of R1 and R3 independently represents H, a lower alkoxy group, or a lower perfluoroalkoxy group; each of R2 and R4 independently represents a lower perfluoroalkyl group; each of p, q, and r is independently an integer of 1 to 24; m is an integer of 1 to 28; and n is an integer of 0 to 10; and at least one compound according to formula (II) wherein: each of R5, R6, and R7 independently represents a lower alkyl group, a lower perfluoroalkoxy group, or F; and M is Li, Na, or K. Methods of inkjet recording, inkjet recording apparatus, storage bags, and cartridges employing the inkjet recording treatment liquids are also provided.
US08708469B2

A cartridge comprises an ink supply structure, a terminal bearing structure, and a first restriction portion. The terminal bearing structure has terminals arranged in a terminal plane which is neither parallel nor perpendicular to a plane defined by a mounting direction leading edge of the ink supply structure, so that the contact portions of the terminals receive a force in a direction opposite (RD) from the mounting direction. An engagement portion of the first restriction portion is provided at a position adjacent to the terminal bearing structure.
US08708464B2

According to one embodiment, an ink jet head includes: a nozzle plate including plural nozzles; a piezoelectric element including plural pressure chambers corresponding to the nozzles and sidewalls provided adjacent to the pressure chambers and functioning as driving elements that press the pressure chambers to eject liquid from the nozzles; a substrate to which the piezoelectric element is bonded; a frame member placed on the substrate to surround the piezoelectric element; and electrodes for driving the piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element includes slopes continuous to the upper end of the piezoelectric element and not in contact with the nozzle plate. The substrate has a surface layer formed on the surface thereof and includes recess continuous to the slopes in the surface layer. The electrodes are formed on the slopes and the recess.
US08708461B2

A thermal resistor fluid ejection assembly includes an insulating substrate and first and second electrodes formed on the substrate. A plurality of individual resistor elements of varying widths are arranged in parallel on the substrate and electrically coupled at a first end to the first electrode and at a second end to the second electrode.
US08708459B2

A droplet ejection head that is attachable to and removable from a droplet ejection apparatus, includes: a nozzle plate having multiple nozzle holes to eject droplets; an individual-channel substrate in which multiple individual-liquid-chambers to supply liquid to the nozzle holes are formed; a common-channel substrate to supply liquid to the individual-channel substrate; a base plate made of metal and including a first positioning part to be engaged with a part of the droplet ejection apparatus at a given position to perform positioning with respect to the droplet ejection apparatus in a direction along an opening surface of the nozzle plate at which the nozzle holes are opened; and a housing made of resin and including a second positioning part to perform positioning with respect to the droplet ejection apparatus in a direction intersecting with the opening surface.
US08708451B2

A liquid ejection apparatus includes a head for ejecting liquid, a cap unit for sealing an ejection surface of the head, a humidified air supply mechanism for performing a humidifying operation; a forcible discharge mechanism for performing a forcible discharge operation of forcibly discharging liquid from the ejection ports, a measuring unit for measuring a lapse time after a power supply becomes off and until the power supply becomes on, and a control unit for controlling the humidifying operation when the power supply becomes off, and controlling the forcible discharge operation when the power supply becomes on. When the power supply becomes on, the control unit controls the humidifying operation before performing the forcible discharge operation based on whether the lapse time measured by the measuring unit exceeds a predetermined time.
US08708447B2

A temperature monitoring system for a media heater of an imaging device comprises a temperature indicator overlying a surface of a media heater of an imaging device. The temperature indicator is configured to vary an optical property in response to changes in temperature at the surface of the media heater. The system includes an optical scanner for scanning the temperature indicator to detect the optical quality. The optical scanner is configured to generate a signal corresponding to the detected optical property.
US08708445B2

A printing device includes: a driving motor that applies a power rotating a roll body in which a medium is rolled; a driving roller that transfers the power of the driving motor to the roll body; a transport motor that applies a power transporting the medium; a transport roller that is provided further to the downstream side than the roll body in the transport direction of the medium; and a looseness acquiring unit that acquires an looseness between the driving roller and the transport roller. When the looseness is equal to or more than a predetermined looseness, the driving motor is controlled on the basis of the looseness acquired by the looseness acquiring unit. When the looseness is less than the predetermined looseness, the driving motor is controlled on the basis of tension between the driving roller and the transport roller.
US08708435B2

An insert drawer arrangement attachable to an existing drawer of a file cabinet to define a raised second storage compartment. The arrangement includes an insert drawer provided with end panels which are disposed sidewardly adjacent separate mounting panels, the latter being mounted on the end walls of the existing drawer. The sidewardly adjacent end and mounting panels have a horizontal guide structure cooperating therebetween to enable the insert drawer to be horizontally moved from a first position superimposed over the existing drawing into a second position wherein it is cantilevered outwardly beyond the existing drawer to permit access to the interior of the existing drawer.
US08708433B2

A storage system includes a shell having a plurality of walls and a plurality of rails. The plurality of walls are coupled to one another to form a storage chamber therebetween and to define a plurality of intersection edges. Each of the plurality of intersection edges is formed at a corresponding boundary of two adjacent ones of the plurality of walls. The plurality of rails each extend outwardly from a corresponding one of the plurality of intersection edges with an angled orientation relative to each of the two adjacent ones of the plurality of walls. A cross-sectional thickness of each of the plurality of rails increases as each of the plurality of rails extends away from one of the plurality of intersection edges.
US08708428B2

In a pump control apparatus that controls the discharge of brake fluid using the rotation of a motor, the number of windings in a low speed circuit is set such that the motor operates at a second rotation speed when the low speed circuit is connected to a power supply. A high speed circuit shares a portion of the windings of the low speed circuit so that the motor operates at a first rotation speed when a power supply voltage is supplied to an input terminal which is disposed midway in the windings of the low speed circuit. An ECU determines the load state of the motor based on a difference between the output voltage at an output terminal and the power supply voltage.
US08708425B2

A method of forming a casting includes providing a preform to a mold cavity. The preform is formed from one of a first metal and a second metal and defines an interface surface. A molten portion of the other of the first metal and the second metal is cast into the mold such that the molten portion proximately contacts the interface surface of the preform. An interface layer at the interface surface, a first portion defined by the mold cavity and the interface layer, and a second portion defined by the interface layer, are formed during casting. The interface layer may define a metallurgical bond between the first portion and the second portion. In the non-limiting example provided herein, the first portion is substantially comprised of aluminum and the second portion is substantially comprised of magnesium. In a non-limiting example, the casting may be configured as a vehicle wheel.
US08708424B2

A cycle wheel that includes a rim and a tire, having a width S, the rim including a rotational body whose cross section includes a main portion, having a width L greater than the width S, and a peripheral portion which is radially positioned outside of the main portion and which includes an annular cavity in which the tire is partially received. The outer surface of the wheel is comprised of the portions of the tire and of the rim facing outward of the wheel. The wheel further includes an interface fitting in contact with the rim and the tire, the interface fitting being positioned in a groove, one side wall of which is a portion of the outer surface of the tire and the other side wall of which is a portion of the outer surface of the rim. The interface fitting constitutes an intermediate portion of the outer surface of the wheel, the fitting being a deformable portion distinct from the tire and the rim, and at least 40% of the volume of the interface fitting being comprised of a hollow space.
US08708421B2

Method of automatically producing a defined face opening, in underground coal mining, during longwall mining operations having a face conveyor, a disk shearer loader and a hydraulic shield support. Via at least one inclination sensor on the top canopy of the shield support frame, the inclination of the top canopy relative to the horizontal, in the direction of mining or extraction of the disk shearer loader, is determined to provide angles of the course of an overlying stratum at the shield support frame. A stepping path length of each shield support frame is detected, and therefrom a cutting depth of the disk shearer loader during an extraction run is determined. A cutting height of the disk shearer loader is detected by means of sensors disposed thereon, and a cutting height of the disk shearer loader is adjusted in alignment with the angle of the course of the overlying stratum to produce the defined face opening.
US08708419B2

A vehicle seat includes a seat cushion, a seat back, a reclining adjustment mechanism and a seat-position adjustment mechanism. The seat is connected to the seat cushion. The reclining adjustment mechanism adjusts an inclination angle of the seat back with respect to the seat cushion. The reclining adjustment mechanism includes a reclining operating part which is disposed on the seat cushion in a vicinity of a connecting part between the seat cushion and the seat back. The seat-position adjustment mechanism adjusts a position of the seat cushion in a forward/rearward direction. The seat-position adjustment mechanism includes a seat-position operating part which is disposed on the seat cushion below the reclining operating part within a range of a length of the reclining operating part.
US08708411B2

A seat back frame includes: a base frame; a movable frame supported for movement in a frontward-rearward direction with respect to the base frame; and a biasing member biasing the movable frame frontwardly and permitting a rearward movement of the movable frame in response to a load having a given value or more. The base frame has an upper frame section supporting a headrest, and two side frame sections extending in an upward-downward direction on laterally opposite sides of the upper frame section. The movable frame has a back-receiving section located between the side frame sections, and two side support sections on laterally opposite sides of the back-receiving section to project forward from the side frame sections. Front ends of the side support sections are disposed to stop a rear surface of the pad that receives a rearward load from a back of an occupant.
US08708400B1

A vehicle includes a vehicle frame, a plurality of wheels and a cargo bed assembly. A cargo bed translation mechanism is operable between the vehicle frame and the cargo bed to translate the cargo bed between a range of positions including a first transport position, a plurality of raised position a variety of loading positions. A cargo bed dumping mechanism is operable for tipping the cargo bed to dump the contents of the cargo bed at least from the transport position and the raised positions.
US08708394B1

A vehicle may include a body, a closure member, a hinge assembly and a sleeve. The body may define a cavity having an opening. The closure member may be movable relative to the cavity to provide access to the cavity. The hinge assembly may be attached to the body and the closure member and may include first and second torsion rods extending between first and second sides of the opening of the cavity. The first and second torsion rods may urge the closure member toward an open position. The sleeve may be attached to the first torsion rod and may include an outer surface having a profile defining a plurality of peaks and valleys. The outer surface may contact the second torsion bar to prevent direct contact between the first and second torsion rods.
US08708385B2

A reaching device that in one embodiment comprises an elongated member, a jaw, and an actuator for opening and closing the jaw. The jaw includes a pair of holding members, one of which has a tapered lateral side edge. In one embodiment, the reaching device may allow a rural mail carrier to remain seated in the driver's side of a conventional (North American) vehicle, reach through the passenger's window, and perform the following tasks: open a mail box, retrieve mail from the mail box, place mail into the mail box, close the mail box, and raise or lower the indicator flag on the side of the mail box.
US08708384B2

The present invention is a light weight, rigid, carrying handle that allows a single user to safely and securely transport multiple cylinders with one hand. The carrying handle consists of a rectangular grip plate, a tab at each end of the grip plate extending away from the grip plate about perpendicular to the surface of the grip plate, and a grip guard on each side of the grip plate also extending away from the grip plate about perpendicular to the surface of the grip plate. The tabs and grip guards all preferably extend in the same direction away from a inner surface of the carrying handle. The tabs are configured thin such that it can be inserted into and through an opening in a cylinder collar bracket.
US08708383B1

The bucket lifting assembly is for use in lifting and transporting a bucket of no particular size via a fork of a forklift. The bucket lifting assembly is configured to attach onto opposing side handles of a bucket in order to lift and transport said bucket. The bucket lifting assembly is comprised of a lateral member that connects with vertical members that extend downwardly and engage opposing side handles of the bucket. The vertical members are able to slide laterally with respect to the lateral member so as to adjust for different bucket sizes. The lateral member includes a fort securing member that is affixed from underneath the lateral member such that a forklift fork is inserted and secured there between in order to prevent unintended separation when in use.
US08708374B1

A sealing ring having a flexible ring body and a front and rear seal separated by a channel and a set screw recess adjacent one end. The sealing ring is placed on the end of a set screw electrical fitting or connector and forms a seal between the body of the set screw electrical fitting or connector and the exterior surface of an electrical conduit. The sealing ring prevents concrete from entering a gap formed between the body of the set screw electrical fitting or connector and an electrical conduit during pouring of concrete. Concrete entering the gap may interfere with electrical connections.
US08708360B2

Traction planets and traction rings can be operationally coupled to a planetary gearset to provide a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT can be used in a bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on the frame of the bicycle at a location forward of the rear wheel hub of the bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on and supported by members of the bicycle frame such that the CVT is coaxial with the crankshaft of the bicycle. The crankshaft is configured to drive elements of the planetary gearset, which are configured to operationally drive the traction rings and the traction planets. Inventive component and subassemblies for such a CVT are disclosed. A shifting mechanism includes a plurality of pivot arms arranged to pivot about the centers of the traction planets as a shift pin hub moves axially.
US08708355B1

A system of attaching a trailing seat attachment to a walker, so a person can sit down while using the walker, without the need to turn around. The system comprising a pair of facing identical wheeled walkers coupled by an extension rod there between, where the walker includes spring loaded casters to restrict rolling when downward forces are applied to the walker seat or grips.
US08708351B2

A rolling tool bag is described. The tool bag can include a tool bag body comprising an open topped storage volume. The tool bag body including interior facings, exterior facings enclosing first and second body reinforcing members that reinforce a bottom wall, a back wall, a right side wall, a front wall, and a left side wall of the tool bag body. The interior and exterior facings are coupled to form first and second compartments with the first and second body reinforcing members disposed therein. The tool bag also includes an axle-handle stabilizing member attached to the tool bag body; an axle coupled to the axle-handle stabilizing member; and a handle rigidly coupled to said axle-handle stabilizing member. First and second wheels are attached to opposite ends of the axle. The wheels are located outside the right side wall and the left side wall, respectively.
US08708349B1

The disclosed technology is a configurable column tool configured for moving items from a first elevation to a second elevation such as moving an item from a pallet to a shelf. The configurable column tool is further associated with a transporter, such as a rider lift, said transporter configured to transport a transport-device, such as pallet, from one location to another and perhaps raise/lower such transport-device for stacking. The configurable column tool is mechanically associated with the transporter so that the transporter can move the configurable column tool from a first location to a second location and perhaps raise/lower the configurable column tool. The configurable column tool is configured with one of a plurality of tool attachments, one such attachment being clamping device.
US08708347B1

A vehicle chassis inspection platform, or creeper, comprising a frame, a cushion layer, and several wheel assemblies is disclosed. The creeper includes a wheel assembly designed to minimize vertical clearance of the creeper wherein the wheel assembly includes a wheel platform with multiple possible positions for joining of the wheel platform to the creeper.
US08708346B2

A collet for connecting a rotary tool to a rotary tool driver, the rotary tool including a shaft having a shaft end and a shaft diameter includes a body including a first end configured to connect to the rotary tool driver and a second end configured to receive the rotary tool. A magnet is disposed within the body and is positioned to magnetically engage and contact the shaft end to inhibit movement of the rotary tool along a shaft rotational axis. A support member is disposed within the body and is configured to support the shaft for rotation about the shaft rotational axis.
US08708345B2

A seal for use with a radiator having a plurality of edge extending and assembleable portions collectively establishing a frame around the radiator. The upper and lower extending sides can include a number of materials, not limited to a 40% calcium carbonate polypropylene. The edge extending and interconnecting sides are further constructed, in cross section, of a harder material as a flat extending first face along with an intermediate positioned snap fit portion, such as for engaging a condenser tank, as well as at least one pin receiving location. A second softer material is coextruded to an edge of the harder material and, upon assembly into a four sided frame with the upper and lower sides, is affixed both around and at least partially forwardly of the radiator face in order to redirect/funnel air to the front of the radiator.
US08708327B2

A paper sheet handling machine includes: a storage unit 30 for storing therein paper sheets P in a batch form; a kicker roller 2 for providing drive force to the paper sheet P located in the lowest position, among the paper sheets P in the batch form, by rotating; a gate mechanism 5 for grasping each paper sheet P provided with the drive force by the kicker roller 2, and feeding out the paper sheet P along a feed out plane; and a pressing member 11 for pressing, from above, the paper sheets P stored in the storage unit 30. The gate mechanism 5 includes a feed roller 3 provided to the storage unit 30, and a gate member 4 provided to be opposed to the feed roller 3. Further, a guide roller 10, which is rotatable in a feeding direction of the paper sheets P, is provided to a bottom end of the pressing member 11.
US08708326B2

Sheets of different formats, i.e. of different format lengths, are transported in a feeding direction one behind the other; and at a certain conveying speed, to at least two collecting drums, which have essentially cylindrical lateral surfaces. Each of these collecting drums is driven about an axis of rotation at a circumferential speed, which corresponds essentially to the feeding speed of the sheets. The first incoming sheet is secured temporarily on one of the collecting drums, while the following, second sheet is secured temporarily on the other collecting drum. At a suitable point in time, the two sheets secured on the collecting drums are detached from the collecting drums and brought together with the third fed sheet to form a sub-product or end product.
US08708325B2

Disclosed is a paper clamping apparatus for an office machine adapted to clamp a paper bundle outputted from the office machine while the paper bundle is being moved. A movable body adapted to move along a shaft by means of belt driving is included; a shaft holder connected to an end of the shaft at an end of the movable body and adapted to move along the shaft by means of a movement of the movable body; a base connected to the shaft at the other end of the movable body and adapted to move along the shaft by means of a movement of the movable body; and a clamp member adapted to operate so that, when the movable body moves, the paper bundle is clamped or released by means of link driving.
US08708323B2

A mounting system including a plunger system wherein the sides of the plunger are utilized to engage a stud and the side of the plunger has a plunger cam that can have virtually any desired cam angle and/or configuration to produce a desired pull down and/or locking action.
US08708321B2

A secondary battery, a jig suitable for fabrication of the secondary battery, and a method for producing a secondary battery constructed with a case accommodating the electrode assembly. The case includes a front portion terminated along opposite edges by a first wing portion and a second wing portion, and a back portion positioned opposite to the front portion, with insulating film bent along a length of a junction between the front portion and each of the first wing portion and the second wing portion, a pair of holes in the insulating film are held in parallel alignment with respect to the length of the junction, with the insulating film adhering to and covering the front portion and a corresponding one of the first wing portion and the second wing portion, in order to prevent leakage of electrolyte, and resulting corrosion of the electrically conducting metal components of the secondary battery.
US08708313B1

A wire pulling guide tool and method for use with electrical panels. The tool has a pair of plates each with a plurality of spaced-apart bores. A pulley rod is insertable in selected bores to align with a conduit in the panel from which wires are to be pulled. The end plates are positioned in the panel against opposite walls and are temporarily secured at slots and set screws in the plates engage the flange on the panel. The installer extends the wire(s) to be pulled over the rod, exerting an outward pulling force which will draw the wire axially from the conduit to prevent damage to the wire or conduit.
US08708311B2

The normal process for installing and removing push pins are with the fingers and after repeating this process several times the fingers may become tired or sore. With the E-Zee Push device the push pin is inserted into one end of the device and the device is used to easily push the pin into a soft to semi-hard surface. The other end has grooves that fit over the push pin and makes it easy to pull the push pin out. Sometimes when picking up push pins the pointed end of the push pin may stick you. E-Zee Push has an attached magnet, which is able to pick up several push pins at one time without the danger of being stuck and making them easily accessible while installing objects to the desired surface.
US08708303B2

A device for hanging an object on a vertical structure, such as a framed picture or painting on a wall. The device comprises a body having a planar portion that lies in a plane defining a first direction and a second direction transverse to the first direction. A plurality of openings are present in the planar portion, and the openings are arranged in a two-dimensional pattern so that each opening is offset in the first and second directions from at least a second of the openings. The device further includes a feature for securing the body to the object.
US08708302B2

A wall calendar holder that includes a base plate operable to be attached to a vertical surface and a face plate pivotally connected to the base plate. A stanchion extends from a central portion of the base plate and operable serves to support a wall calendar. The face plate snaps into engagement with the stanchion and the combination of the base member and face member serve to hold an upper edge of the wall calendar is a secure and flush condition upon a vertical presentation surface.
US08708300B2

A sliding device for a vehicle comprises a lock member received and attached within a section area of one of relatively movable first and second rails for locking the relative movement between the first and second rails; and a manipulation lever provided for moving the lock member to permit the relative movement between the first and second rails. A movement permitting portion is formed on at at least one of the lock member and the rail attaching the lock member so that the relative movement between the lock member and the rail attaching the lock member in the rail axis direction is allowed with the lock member locking the relative movement. Further, a movement restraining portion is formed on the rail attaching the lock member to restrain the movement in a lock release direction of the lock member after the relative movement at the movement permitting portion.
US08708293B2

In a device substrate attachment structure, when a substrate including a terminal holder attached to an end portion thereof is attached to a frame made of sheet metal, the substrate is attached to the frame via the terminal holder without using a screw fastening structure. The terminal holder is attached to the frame via an engagement/disengagement mechanism. The engagement/disengagement mechanism includes through-hole portions on a side of the frame, a seat portion, claw portions, and leg portions on the side of the terminal holder, and a positioning mechanism on the side of a cabinet. The positioning mechanism includes rim portions of an opening window of the cabinet.
US08708290B2

A two piece line guide is shown where the user can remove a pin or screw and rotate one portion of the line guide to open it and allow the user to install, remove or replace a line in the guide. In one embodiment the line guide opens in a vertical manner and in a second embodiment, the line guide opens in a horizontal manner. The line guides can be affixed to a flat surface while others can be affixed to a post or stanchion either with fasteners or lashings or both.
US08708283B2

An aircraft store ejector systems and subsystems thereof. Embodiments can include a two-reservoir re-pressurization system wherein a remote reservoir is used to maintain desired pressure in a local ejector reservoir. The system can include a release valve having a vent valve and valve piston. The release valve can control release of pressurized gas to a pitch control valve. The pitch control valve can be configured to distribute the pressurized gas between two or more ejector piston assemblies. One or more of the ejector piston assemblies can include multiple concentric piston stages and piston chambers, the piston chambers configured to contain a volume of gas. The ejector piston assemblies can be configured to compress the volume of gas within the piston chambers as the piston stages are extended out from the aircraft. Such compression can provide a return force to the piston stages.
US08708282B2

A system for loading and unloading a cargo assembly onto and from an aircraft. The system comprises an aircraft and a movable platform. The aircraft comprises a forward fairing, an aft fairing, a spine disposed between the forward fairing and the aft fairing and a plurality of mounts coupled to the spine and configured to structurally engage the cargo container onto the spine. The aft fairing is movable between a fixed position for flight and an open position for at least loading and unloading of the cargo assembly. The aircraft is configured such that an unobstructed passageway is provided in an area underneath the spine during loading or unloading of the cargo assembly. An aft access is provided when the aft fairing is moved to the open position. The movable platform is used to maneuver the cargo assembly for loading and unloading onto and from the spine, respectively.
US08708281B2

The invention seeks to improve the integrity in respect of tolerance to damage following the spread of cracks in failure-mitigating structures of the failsafe type. To do this, the invention proposes to form a composite hybrid structure within the failure-mitigating structure. A failure-mitigating mainframe, particularly of an aircraft fuselage, equipped with a structural element made of composite according to the invention, has profiled longitudinal structural components assembled back to back by fasteners. First sides are longitudinally aligned and bonded to the fuselage skin, and the other sides are longitudinally aligned some distance away from the first sides. Fasteners couple the composite structural element to the external face of the sides of the metal components that are longitudinally aligned some distance away from the first sides.
US08708273B2

A vertical takeoff and landing aircraft having a fuselage with, preferably, three wings and six synchronously tilt-able propulsion units, each one mounted above, below, or on each half of the aforementioned three wings. The propulsion units are oriented vertically for vertical flight and horizontally for forward flight. Each propulsion unit comprises a propeller having a plurality of blades, where the pitch angle associated with the distal end of each blade and the proximal end of each blade are independently adjustable. As such, each of the propellers can be adjusted to exhibit a first blade pitch angle distribution optimized for vertical flight and a second blade pitch angle distribution optimized for forward flight.
US08708272B1

A landing gear door for retractable landing gear of aircraft includes an acoustic liner. The acoustic liner includes one or more internal cavities or chambers having one or more openings that inhibit the generation of sound at the surface and/or absorb sound generated during operation of the aircraft. The landing gear door may include a plurality of internal chambers having different geometries to thereby absorb broadband noise.
US08708269B2

There is provided a webbing take-up device including: a spool to which an end of webbing is anchored and that takes up the webbing by rotating in a take-up direction; a lock portion that restricts rotation of the spool in a pullout direction, in a coupled state capable of transmitting rotation force to the spool; a sensor portion that actuates in a rapid vehicle deceleration state in which a vehicle is being decelerated with a deceleration of a specific value or greater, a state in which the spool is rapidly rotated with an acceleration of a specific value or greater in the pullout direction, or a combination thereof; a drive portion that rotates the spool in the take-up direction by forward driving force output and that actuates the sensor portion; and a clutch portion that couples the spool and the lock portion by actuation of the sensor portion.
US08708267B2

A method and device for handling and deploying a sheet of material are provided. In a first version, a rigid rod is positioned within a flexible cylindrical core and the sheet is wrapped around the core. The rod is then removed from the core and the core and sheet may be folded and reshaped for storage or shipment. The core and sheet may then be unfolded and the sheet may be unwrapped from the core. The rigid rod may be positioned within the core after the core is unfolded and to enable easier removal of the sheet from the core. A dispenser may be provided that attaches to the core and/or the rod and enables an operator to unwrap the sheet from the core. The core may be sufficiently rigid to allow the dispenser to be coupled with the core and without positioning of a rigid rod within the core.
US08708266B2

Exemplary embodiments are for a system for crushing a material that may include a compaction chamber and a screw assembly that generally extends between the proximal and distal ends of the compaction chamber. A portion of the screw assembly increases in diameter along a length of the shaft of the screw assembly such that the system is configured to crush material between the compaction chamber and the portion of the screw assembly that increases in diameter. The portion of the screw assembly that increases in diameter may be integral with the shaft of the screw assembly. An exemplary embodiment of the system may also include at least one wear member that is removably associated with the distal portion of the compaction chamber such that the wear member may assist with the crushing of material.
US08708258B2

A machine comprising two rollers for ovalizing a nuclear fuel cladding to crush the content thereof allowing its easy release even if the pellets are arranged in the cladding with little clearance. The opposite inclinations of the rollers promote automatic forward travel of the claddings. The opening and the inclination of the claddings lead to release of the crushed fuel. The rollers are biconical, with an input portion of increasing diameter and an output portion of decreasing diameter, to apply sufficient ovalizations to crush the fuel while restoring rotundity to the cladding when it leaves the machine, to facilitate the outflow of debris.
US08708257B2

The spray attachment has a holding part with a water guide that can be connected to a feed water pipe, and a spray head with an external housing. Said spray head and the holding part are fastened separably to each other by means of a coupling. Furthermore, the spray head can have switching options for producing different spray jets, and an illuminating means.
US08708249B2

A fuel injector for a compression ignition internal combustion engine which comprises a fuel injection valve having an injection valve member which is moveable in use, under the influence of fuel pressure within an injection valve member control chamber acting upon it, between a closed position and an open position. The fuel injector further comprises a high pressure fuel supply passage to the injection valve member control chamber, and an actuator operable to open and close a discharge valve connected between the injection valve member control chamber and a fuel outlet passage to a low pressure reservoir or drain. A shut-off valve is provided in the high pressure fuel supply passage and the shut-off valve has a shut-off valve member which is moveable in use, under the influence of fuel pressure within a shut-off valve member control chamber acting upon it, between a closed position and an open position. The shut-off valve member control chamber is connectable to the low pressure reservoir or drain via the discharge valve, and a fuel transfer passage is provided between the injection valve member control chamber and the low pressure reservoir or drain.
US08708246B2

A dispenser for applying small amounts of liquid to a substrate. The dispenser includes a dispenser body, an actuator in the dispenser body, and a dispensing element including a dispensing element body removably coupled to the dispenser body. A valve stem is mounted for reciprocating movement within the dispensing element body. Additional aspects include a deformable valve seat, a deformable and resilient valve stem tip and a method of applying liquid in discrete amounts to a substrate.
US08708245B2

The present invention comprises an improved track which increases the speed of a gravity-driven racing car. Firstly, a micro-grooved wheel rolling surface increases the friction for lateral movement of the car wheels through a fingerprint effect, thus straightening the trajectory of the path to the finish line. Secondly, this effect also reduces the amount of sideways movement towards the central guide strip and the associated bumping velocity. Thirdly, a low-friction material on the central guide strip reduces the frictional drag when contacted by a car's wheels. Fourthly, the micro-grooved surface also reduces the contact area between the wheel and the track surface causing a reduction in rolling friction. Finally, the micro-grooved rolling surface in combination with the low-friction guide strip material have a synergistic effect since the coefficient of sliding friction between a wheel and low-friction guide strip material is lessened because of a reduction in lateral velocity of contact.
US08708238B2

A personal card carrier is configurable into open and closed positions, in which both broad faces of a contained card are effectively covered and protected against loss in the closed position, but are uncovered in the open position such that a data-embedded portion of the card is presentable to a card reader without necessitating removal of the card from the carrier.
US08708237B2

In a data region of each microdot block on a microdot matrix, a coordinate of each the microdot block on the microdot matrix is encoded into a plurality of microdots included by the data region according to an encoding method based on Reflected Gray codes. With the aid of a unique changed bit between any two consecutive Reflected Gray codes, an estimated coordinate of a frame, which is fetched by scanning the microdot matrix, on the microdot matrix, may still be decoded even if no complete microdot block is fetched within the frame.
US08708220B2

A method includes, but is not limited to: obtaining and controlling display of one or more portions of the bendable interface containing electronic device regarding display of second information in response to the information associated with the one or more changes in one or more sequences of two or more conformations of the one or more portions of the one or more regions of the bendable interface containing electronic device. In addition to the foregoing, other related method/system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.
US08708209B2

A driving tool includes a housing, a magazine, a cylinder head, a push lever, a cylinder, a combustion chamber frame, a piston, an injection part, and a fastener feeding unit. The housing has one end portion and another end portion. The magazine is connected to the housing and accommodating a fastener. The cylinder head is disposed at the one end portion. The push lever is movable relative to the housing upon pressure contacting a workpiece in a moving direction. The cylinder is fixed to the housing. The combustion chamber frame is movable in the housing in accordance with the push lever and selectively defining a combustion chamber in cooperation with the cylinder. The piston is slidably reciprocally movable relative to the cylinder and displaced upon expansion of air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. The injection part is connected to the another end portion of the housing and having an injection passage in communication with the magazine. The fastener feeding unit feeding the fastener to the injection passage in accordance with the movement of the push lever. The push lever includes a first guiding part configured to be slidably engaged with the fastener feeding unit. The fastener feeding unit is movable between an initial position and a feed position positioned downstream of the initial position in a feeding direction in which the fastener is fed. The fastener feeding unit slidably moves from the initial position to the feeding position with respect to the first guiding part for feeding the fastener downstream in the feeding direction in accordance with the movement of the push lever upon pressing the workpiece.
US08708203B2

A screw-on throat plug assembly for use in a closed loop dispensing system. The throat plug assembly also includes a mechanical venting assembly which ensures that sufficient air may enter the interior of the container as liquid is being drawn from the container. The mechanical venting assembly of this invention ensures that the vent openings associated therewith will not become plugged with debris.
US08708199B2

A unified system, device and method for bulk dispensing a product in a safe and sanitary environment preventing micro and macro contamination, adulteration and product mix-up. The system comprises a bulk product dispenser having a discharge valve; a container/bag holding to-be-dispensed product in a UV-proof, fluid-impermeable, sealed environment, having a tear-tab adapted for releasing the product from outside the dispenser; and a containment device removably attachable with the discharge valve which measures and dispenses the product to the consumer. A containment device for bulk product dispensing comprises an inner containment receiving the product, having an inner tube, first coupling, bottom opening, and second coupling aligned with the bottom opening; and an outer valve portion enclosing the inner containment, comprising an outer tube, cap, spring and bottom closure with aperture(s), the spring between the first coupling and the cap, and providing resistance keeping the bottom closure against the second coupling.
US08708194B2

The present invention relates a device for storing and dispensing a fluid. The device includes an elongated container, an outlet component, and a movable dispensing component. Also disclosed is a kit that includes the device and a filling attachment for refilling the device with a fluid. Also disclosed is a kit that includes a compilation of component parts comprising the elongated container, the outlet component, and the movable dispensing component of the device. The kit can further include a filament for directly or indirectly anchoring the movable dispensing component to the elongated container. The kit can also include a filling attachment comprising an attachment end and an adapter end. Also disclosed is a method for storing a fluid, a method for dispensing a fluid, and a method for storing, dispensing, and refilling a fluid.
US08708192B2

A container for dispensing dosages of multiple medications over time. The present invention includes a container which has a plurality of compartments each configured to contain a plurality of dosages of a different medication. A rotatable lid is attached on top of the container such that an opening in the lid may be selectively positioned in fluid communication with each of the plurality of compartments. A lid position detection device is provided for identifying which of the compartments the opening is presently addressing. A programmable computing device is provided to track dosages administered from each of the plurality of compartments. A display, controlled by the programmable computing device, conveys information regarding the medication contained within a selected compartment. The ability to transmit and receive information from an external device or the Internet, either by a data port or wirelessly, is provided for increased functionality of the device.
US08708191B2

A method of making and transporting a container with a carrying handle and a container with a carrying handle therefor. 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.
US08708190B2

An anti-sloshing apparatus comprising: a plurality of buoyant members having buoyancy to be floated on the surface of liquid; a foam member having open cell structure to absorb the liquid and covering the buoyant member; and a connecting member to connect the adjacent buoyant members one another, allows effectively preventing liquid cargo sloshing.
US08708184B2

A food container system and method of using same is provided for heating, storing or cooling food placed within a container. The container system facilitates heating of food without dehydration of the food, and it permits cooling of the food, such as, for example, cooling in a refrigerator or cooling at room temperature after removal from a heating oven or microwave, without vapor lock preventing or making difficult the removal of a lid from a container in which the food is heated or cooled. The system comprises, in one aspect, a ceramic lid and a ceramic container to receive the lid, and a seal having a channel there through and disposed intermediate the ceramic lid and the ceramic container. In one aspect, the seal may comprise a heat-resistant silicon material. In one aspect, the same container system may be used, for example, to heat a food placed in the container, to serve the food at a dining table, and to store the food, or the remaining unconsumed portion of the food, in a refrigerator for later reheating and consumption.
US08708182B2

A container includes a body forming an interior and having a sidewall with a distal edge portion forming an opening to the interior. A liner is disposed over the opening and includes an inner portion and an outermost radial portion disposed radially outwardly of the distal edge portion. A lid including an interior surface and at least one tab projecting inward from the interior surface is disposed over the liner and engages the body. The liner is sized to be releasably rotatably secured within the lid while the lid is initially attached to the body so that the at least one tab remains generally rotationally fixed relative to the outermost radial portion while being assembled to the body. The at least one tab is arrange to press the outermost radial portion while the lid is being removed from the body so that the outermost radial portion maintains a bent orientation.
US08708174B2

A bottle teat comprising: A nipple sleeve having a hollow nipple and a through-hole connected at the bottom to a hollow nipple sleeve which is connected at the bottom to a nipple flange that is connected to the nipple sleeve to be fastened to a bottle by a fastening ring which serves at the bottom with an annular disc-shaped ring flange overlapping the nipple flange, A contact area projecting downward or upward from the nipple flange, or from the nipple sleeve above the nipple flange outward into the area for placing a ring flange, and A lip valve that is opened when the nipple flange is not fastened to a bottle arranged in a deforming area next to the contact area so that the deformation of the nipple flange that arises from pressing the fastening ring against the contact area closes the valve.
US08708165B2

An improved apparatus configured to store different kinds and types of media cases and boxes includes at least two similar constructed apparatuses which are releasably connected together by at least one pair of mating connecting members.
US08708154B1

An adjustable spring grizzly bar material separator provided and includes a plurality of flexible tines, a cassette, wherein the plurality of flexible tines are each coupled on an end to the cassette, and a first set of spacers removably coupled within the cassette between the plurality of tines, wherein the first set of spacers separate the plurality of flexible tines a first predetermined distance to set the size of material that is to be separated from an amount of aggregate flowing over the tines. The material separator may also include a second set of spacers; the first set of spacers is replaceable with the second set of spacers, wherein the second set of spacers separates the plurality of flexible tines a second predetermined distance, the second predetermined distance being different from the first predetermined distance.
US08708151B2

A protective case for a handheld electronic device is provided. The protective case can include a removable mounting system comprised of an interlocking member and a plurality of mounting bases. The protective case may further include a non-slip member to prevent the device from slipping on a surface and a magnet for attaching the device to a magnetic surface.
US08708150B2

A pallet-like base frame-includes a floor for supporting the inner container. Corner feet and central feet are mounted on a foot frame attached to the floor of the base frame. At least one of the corner feet includes a corner foot body with a front wall and partial bodies formed laterally of a center axis of the front wall. The partial bodies respectively include an upper supporting surface formed on the circumferential rim of the front wall for connecting the corner foot with the floor and a lower supporting surface with a connecting region for connecting the corner foot with the foot frame. The lower supporting surface of at least one partial body has a stop body arranged between a circumferential rim of the front wall and the connecting region, which stop body, due to its distance from the circumferential rim, defines a bearing rim for supporting the base frame on an outer casing of a transport and storage container.
US08708146B2

A package is disclosed comprising a blister with a flange enclosed between paperboard cards, arranged so that upon rotation of the blister the flange emerges from between the cards allowing the blister to be separated from the cards.
US08708144B2

An adapter for inserting into a carton containing a non-reel coil of filamentary material or wire has a shaft-receiving sleeve supported by a box structure. The adapter's box structure has top and back walls joined at right angles and reinforced by side walls. Knobs extend outwardly from the side walls and have openings therethrough. Ribs on the underside of the top wall define a channel which is aligned with the openings in the knobs. The ribs, top wall and knobs define a sleeve which is oriented such that it may receive a shaft or rod of a wire pulling rack. Alternatively, said adapter having a box structure with walls only in two perpendicular planes. At least two of said walls forming a channel extending outwardly that may receive a shaft or rod.
US08708134B2

A method and apparatus for inspection of containers including a circular star wheel conveyor having a plurality of intermediate annular inspection pockets and at least one non-inspection position. The method includes the steps of providing an outfeed stripper configured to engage a container disposed in the non-inspection position aligning the outfeed stripper inside the circumference of the star wheel conveyor and aligning the outfeed stripper with the conveyor and with the rotational path of the star wheel. Positioning an outfeed mechanism adjacent to the star wheel conveyor and operating the outfeed mechanism at a desired conveyor speed. Controlling the movement of the star wheel conveyor to align the container with the outfeed stripper and the outfeed mechanism only at the non-inspection position regardless of the number of angular inspection positions.
US08708132B2

An apparatus and method to efficiently and accurately count, group and discharge individual products from a production line. The apparatus and methods are suitable for a variety of products, including products with irregular shapes, and/or products that travel down production lines at irregular intervals. In one embodiment the apparatus can have a delivery conveyor having a product sensor; a grouping conveyor adjacent to the delivery conveyor having a plurality of containment areas to receive a plurality of products; and a controller communicatively connected to the delivery conveyor, the grouping conveyor, and the product sensor, the controller configured to count product traveling on the delivery conveyor during a grouping sequence and to discharge a product group from the grouping conveyor during a discharge sequence at a predetermined product count. The grouping conveyor can be at substantially right angles to the delivery conveyor.
US08708129B2

A method and system for prevention of dust accumulation on a coin sensor assembly (67) in a coin handling machine (60), includes a lower optical element (83, 90) positioned below a coin track (63) and then either, or both of, 1) blowing off dust that tends to accumulate on the cover (83) for the lower optical element (90) and 2) coating the cover (83) for the lower optical element (90) with a transparent conductive coating (83a) that is electrically grounded to prevent accumulation of dust due to static electrical attraction. A fan unit (82) is positioned adjacent the cover (83) for blowing dust off the cover (83) during operation of the coin handling machine (60). The method and system is preferably a optical reflector system with an upper optical element in the form of a reflector (86, 87) and a transparent conductive coating of material (87a) is also provided on the reflector (86, 87).
US08708123B2

One embodiment may include a system for distributing torque between front and rear axles of an all wheel drive vehicle and/or between left and right wheels of a two or four wheel drive vehicle comprises at least one limited slip coupling having a disc package and a piston acting thereon, the piston being actuated by a hydraulic pump assembly. This assembly has an electric motor, a hydraulic pump driven thereby, and a centrifugal regulator also driven thereby, the centrifugal regulator controlling a pressure overflow valve, connected to the oil outlet of the hydraulic pump. The assembly specifically comprises an axial piston pump having a piston drum rotatable in a pump housing and containing a number of reciprocable axial pistons, at least one centrifugal lever pivotally attached to the piston drum, and a valve member connected to the centrifugal lever and being arranged for cooperation with the mouth of an oil outlet bore in the piston drum to form the pressure overflow valve.
US08708121B2

The present invention employs an electronic control device which monitors and controls the extent of engagement of a friction clutch on a motor vehicle. The control device includes a variable controller which enables the operator of the motor vehicle to pre-select the extent or degree of engagement of the friction clutch. A switch enables the operator to activate the present invention and bypass the clutch lever which would normally be used to operate the friction clutch. A gauge indicates the degree of engagement of the friction clutch and a second switch enables the operator to disconnect the electronic control from operation of the clutch.
US08708120B2

A multi-plate clutch including a clutch hub having a cylindrical portion; a plurality of clutch plates splined to the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion of the clutch hub, and a plurality of spline teeth being formed on the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion of the clutch hub. A recessed portion is formed on the inner side of each spline tooth, and a weir portion is formed at one end of each recessed portion by depressing one portion of the spline tooth to the inner side on one end side of the cylindrical portion. Thus forming a depressed portion, and removing, with one portion of the depressed portion left behind, a portion of the cylindrical portion on the one end side of the one portion of the depressed portion.
US08708111B2

A disk brake (1) usually comprises a caliper (2), a carrier (3) and friction means (8, 9). The caliper is slideably mounted on the carrier. To improve the braking performance of such a disk brake while reducing the manufacturing cost, the invention provides that a first friction means is retained rotationally by the carrier while a second friction means is retained rotationally by the caliper. The disk brake according to the present invention is also characterized in that the carrier has at least two guide pins (17, 18), the caliper being slideably mounted on the carrier via these two pins, the caliper having at least two bores (19, 20) able to receive one pin each.
US08708107B2

The invention relates to a method and a device for monitoring a lifting system (11) for lifting loads, particularly vehicles, in which for lifting a load (14), the lifting movement is initiated by a starting phase, and lifting devices (12) are individually driven in the starting phase. Load holding means (18) of the lifting devices (12) are raised until a pre-set minimum load is detected by the pressure sensor (24), and the load holding means (18) are raised by a pre-selectable displacement distance in a load recognition phase of the lifting process following the starting phase, and after the pre-selected displacement distance is passed through, a load inquiry is carried out and the determined load is stored as a reference value for the further lifting process.
US08708101B2

The present invention relates to a life-saving apparatus and method for escaping from a second floor or a third floor of a burning building, wherein the life-saving apparatus includes a container, a set of wheels, an inflatable pillow, an inflatable slide, a set of canisters full of compressed gas, and a set of activators operatively connected to the canisters.
US08708100B2

A rail-guided climbing system having climbing brackets (36, 38, 40) in which climbing rails (32, 34) are guided, rigidly fixed to a scaffolding unit (12). Each climbing bracket (32, 34) has a joint (52) arranged between a first climbing bracket (40) and a second climbing bracket (38). The free end of the climbing rail (32, 34) may be inserted into a climbing bracket (36, 40) rigidly fixed on the construction (16) and the angular position of adjacent climbing rail sections (48, 50) is adjusted via the joint (52) using an adjuster device (58, 68).
US08708098B2

A support membrane designed to be arranged with a covering that can be applied to bearing areas such as floors or even under and on concrete screeds for a floor is provided. Said membrane can also be used in the composition of ceilings and in the composition of residential walls. The membrane includes a base layer made of fibers and designed to be arranged directly on the bearing area so as to absorb sound waves and to level the irregularities of the bearing area, a vapor barrier-anchoring membrane, and optionally an underlay designed to receive the covering and provide an anchor for the finishing products. Said support membrane is characterized in that the vapor barrier-anchoring membrane thereof is applied in liquid form by hot-melting directly on the base layer and on the underlay whenever the latter is used. Said support membrane improves heat transmission by reflectivity in the room in which the wall, floor or ceiling is located, as well as guaranteeing much more efficient predefined laying of the floor thanks to the anchoring membrane contained by the former, which reduces the tension effect the floor finish can cause.
US08708096B2

A method for producing a sound-deadening insert of a silencer of an exhaust-gas discharge system in an internal-combustion engine of a vehicle; the method comprises the steps of providing a mattress made up of continuous voluminized fibers of sound-deadening material, and needling the mattress so as to cause a compacting/interweaving of the fibers in order to obtain compacting lines.
US08708092B2

A speaker device includes a cabinet from which a duct for adjusting the back pressure protrudes, a speaker unit mounted in the cabinet, and an intermediate hollow member including first and second connection portions. A cabin space in which the cabinet is installed is separated from a non-cabin space by a partition wall. If there is a subframe facing the partition wall, the duct cannot be directly connected to the opening formed in the partition wall. The intermediate hollow member is disposed in a small space between the subframe and the partition wall, the second connection portion is connected to the opening, and the duct is connected to the first connection portion.
US08708090B2

The present invention relates to a power steering system for a vehicle provided with means for actuating the stop & start function in a moving vehicle, especially an industrial or commercial or special vehicle, said vehicle being equipped with hybrid drive of the parallel type, comprising a thermal engine (1), an electric motor-generator (2), a single clutch unit (3) placed between the two engines, a transmission system (6) comprising an automated manual transmission, the method comprising the steps of enabling of the stop phase, activation of the stop phase, maintaining of the stop phase, activation of the start phase, the system comprising a hybrid power steering with coupling of a hydraulic power steering controlled by the thermal engine, and an electric power steering controlled by a control system (EPS) of the electric power steering.
US08708087B2

A fuel tank (12) is constructed such that a front flange portion (14A1) of a top surface plate (14A) of a second plate (14) extends outside in relation to a front surface plate (13B) of a first plate (13). As a result, a front surplus space (15A) projected in the upper and lower directions in a range of the front flange portion (14A1) of the top surface plate is formed in the front surface side of the front surface plate. A urea water tank (24) is arranged along the fuel tank (12) in such a manner that a rear side portion thereof enters into the front surplus space. Therefore, the rear side portion of the urea water tank can enter into the front surplus space using the front surplus space formed in the fuel tank (12), thereby increasing the tank capacity without downsizing the article accommodating box (16).
US08708083B2

The present invention combines the principles of a gas turbine engine with an electric transmission system. A method and apparatus are disclosed for utilizing metallic and ceramic elements to store heat energy derived from a regenerative braking system. The subject invention uses this regenerated electrical energy to provide additional energy storage over conventional electrical storage methods suitable for a gas turbine engine. The subject invention provides engine braking for a gas turbine engine as well as reducing fuel consumption.
US08708081B1

An apparatus for recycling energy in a mechanical system has a variable-speed flywheel, a main mechanical load, and a continuously variable transmission coupled between the flywheel and the load. The continuously variable transmission accelerates the flywheel when the load decelerates and decelerates the flywheel when the load accelerates. A clutch is cooperative between the continuously variable transmission and the load. The load is a motor vehicle having a prime mover and a brake. A load shaft is connected between the motor vehicle and the transmission. A flywheel shaft is connected between the flywheel and the transmission.
US08708078B2

A shutter system includes a first louver element having a first pivot axis and a second louver element having a second pivot axis. The first louver element is configured to rotate about the first pivot axis, and the second louver element is configured to rotate about the second pivot axis. The shutter system additionally having a flexible drive element connecting the first louver element and the second louver element to thereby substantially synchronize the rotation of the first and second louver elements.
US08708077B2

A grille shutter apparatus arranged at a grille opening portion at a frontal portion of a vehicle body includes a frame shaping a flow path of air flowing into the vehicle body from the grille opening portion, a movable fin rotationally supported by the frame and configured to control a flow amount of the air by providing an opening movement and a closing movement, the movable fin including a fin portion and rotary shafts rotationally supported by the frame, the rotary shafts including exposure portions configured to be arranged on the flow path of the air, at least one first shielding wall extending radially outward of the rotary shaft and provided at the exposure portion and a second shielding wall arranged at an upstream side of the air that flows in relative to the exposure portion extending in a direction intersecting a direction of the air that flows in.
US08708068B2

A friction drive device comprises a pair of drive disks rotatably supported by a frame opposite to each other in a coaxial relationship, a power source for individually rotatively actuating the drive disks, a traction wheel interposed between the drive disks and including a plurality of articulation members pivotally connected in tandem into a loop and a free roller rotatably support by each articulation member so as to be rotatable around an axial line extending along the loop, and drive rollers pivotally supported along a peripheral part of each drive disk at a regular angular interval and engaging the free rollers at an oblique angle. The articulation members allow the free rollers to be held in a loop without requiring a stiff annular member.
US08708066B2

A drilling apparatus including a drill collar forming part of a primary drilling assembly and having an outward opening groove in the side thereof, and a secondary drilling assembly. The secondary drilling assembly includes a tubular drill string connected at one end to the drill collar, a drilling motor mounted in the drill string, and a drill bit mounted at the other end of the drill string and connected to the drilling motor. The secondary drilling assembly is mounted in the drill collar so as to be movable between a first position in which the drill bit is seated in the groove, and a second position in which the bit projects laterally from the groove in the side of the drill collar.
US08708061B2

A demolition hammer is provided that may include a housing having a distal end, a power cell disposed in the housing, an end plate attached to the distal end of the housing, and a damper disposed in the housing between the power cell and the end plate, wherein the damper is spaced apart from the power cell by a gap. The damper may also support and align a plurality of wear plates interposed between the housing and power cell. The damper may have generally rectangular first portion having a planar upper surface and a planar lower surface generally parallel to the upper surface and a generally circular second portion extending from the lower surface, wherein the first portion and the section portion define a central through bore.
US08708060B2

A synchronization mechanism of a clutch mechanism includes a drive side contact member and a driven side contact member provided on a drive side clutch member and a driven side clutch member of a clutch mechanism at positions radially inwardly of a drive side clutch portion and a driven side clutch portion, respectively. The driven side contact member does not contact the drive side contact member when the driven side clutch member is in a disengaging position. As the driven side clutch member moves from the disengaging position to an engaging position, the driven side contact member contacts the drive side contact member, so that the rotation of the drive side clutch member is transmitted to the driven side clutch member through frictional contact between the driven side contact member and the drive side contact member before the driven side clutch member reaches the engaging position.
US08708058B2

An arrangement and a method for controlling at least one drill parameter when drilling in rock with a rock drill, comprising an impulse-generating device arranged to induce shock waves in a tool acting against the rock with a percussive force generated via a shock wave-generating pressure. The arrangement and method comprises a control system for determining a first parameter value representing the damping pressure, determining a second parameter value representing the rotation pressure of a drill bit, determining a deviation between the second parameter value and a rotation pressure reference value, determining a parameter reference value depending on the deviation, and regulating the percussion pressure based on a function of the deviation and the parameter reference value.
US08708054B2

A technique enables protection of subsea wells. The technique employs a subsea test tree and associated control system to ensure control over the well in a variety of situations. The subsea test tree may be formed with an upper portion releasably coupled to a lower portion. The upper portion employs at least one upper shut-off valve, and the lower portion employs at least one lower shut-off valve to protect against unwanted release of fluids from either above or below the subsea test tree. The subsea test tree also is coupled with the control system in a manner which allows control to be exercised over the at least one upper shut-often valve and the at least one lower shut-off valve.
US08708031B2

Provided herein are various embodiments of systems for casting thin metal plates and sheets. Typical embodiments include layers of mold cavities that are oriented vertically for casting the metal plates. In some embodiments, the mold cavities include a beveled edge such that the plates that are cast have a beveled edge. In some embodiments, the mold cavities are filled with a molten metal through an open horizontal edge of the cavity. In some embodiments, the mold cavities are filled through one or more vertical feed orifices. Further disclosed are methods for forming a thin cast metal plate or sheet where the thickness of the cast part is in a range from 0.005 inches to 0.2 inches, and the surface area of the cast part is in a range from 16 square inches to 144 square inches.
US08708030B2

A mold includes a first groove part and a second groove part. The first groove part extends with a constant length or a constant width from a center part to an outer circumferential part of the mold. The second groove part extends from a terminal end of the first groove part on an outer circumferential part side of the first groove part and merging with any portion of the first groove part.
US08708029B2

An injection mold producing a model of a turbine engine blade, including: a top surface that folds onto a bottom surface, both surfaces including long rods for supporting a core generating cooling cavities inside the blade, wherein the long rods of the bottom surface are configured to contact a first surface of the airfoil at bearing points, and the long rods of the top surface are configured to contact a second surface of the airfoil at clamping points; at least one short rod extending from one of the surfaces of the mold and pointing towards a false point located on one of the surfaces of the airfoil, the length of the short rod being shorter than the distance between the surface of the mold and the surface of the blade at the false point, and the difference between the length and the distance being equal to tolerance in relation to positioning of the false point in event of deformation of the core.
US08708027B2

Portable privacy spaces are described that include an open door of a vehicle, and an opaque sheet attached to a first fastener and a second fastener. The first fastener is attached to the open door of the vehicle and the second fastener is attached to another surface of the vehicle. The door, the sheet, and the vehicle form a perimeter for the privacy space. Also, methods of forming a privacy space are described that include the steps of opening a first door of a vehicle, and attaching a first fastener to the open door, where the first fastener is also attached to an opaque sheet. A second fastener is attached to another surface of the vehicle, where the second fastener is also attached to the opaque sheet. The open door, the opaque sheet and the rest of the vehicle form the privacy space.
US08708025B2

The present invention relates to a device for covering a surface comprising a drum mounted to rotate and able to wind up or unwind a cover. Said drum is mounted on a longitudinal-translation mechanism comprising: (a) two flexible belts fixed only at each of their ends to the four corners of the surface that is to be covered and arranged along the two lengths of the perimeter of the surface that is to be covered; and (b) a carriage transversely overhanging the surface to be covered and supporting the drum, said carriage comprising, at each of its ends: (i) a drive wheel the rotation axle of which is parallel to that of said drum; (ii) at least two casters resting on the surface directly adjacent to the surface that is to be covered and allowing for the longitudinal translational movement of the carriage, these being mounted on each side of the drive wheel and together with the latter constituting a triangle of which the drive wheel forms the vertex; so that the sections of each flexible belt comprised between their points of attachment and the casters, are pressed against the length of the periphery of the surface that is to be covered, and so that the section of each belt comprised between the at least two casters runs over the drive wheel without slipping.
US08708023B2

Disclosed is a cordless blind assembly, comprising an upper frame rod with two blind cord winders disposed at two opposing sides, a retracting rod disposed beneath the upper frame rod, and two side guiding rails. A plurality of guiding components are disposed at the ends of the retracting rod. The driving cords from the blind cord winders connect to corresponding guiding components by going around both sides of the blind shading parts. The extended driving cords are hidden inside the side guiding rails where the guiding components can freely move inside the corresponding side guiding rails. Accordingly, the cordless blind assembly can avoid neck-strangling accidents to achieve easy DIY installation without breaking the function of the blind shading parts.
US08708022B2

A label peeling unit having an installation body: a movable body movable while engaging with the installation body and stopping in a closed state or an open state in which the movable body is closed or open relative to the installation body; a label peeling body installed on the movable body and allowing backing paper of a continuous label body, which is conveyed by the paper sheet conveyance device, to be in contact with the label peeling body to bend the backing paper for peeling a part of a label off the backing paper; and a backing paper conveyance roller rotatably installed on the movable body and rotating while being in contact with a platen roller of the paper sheet conveyance device with the backing paper in between to thereby convey the backing paper and discharge it to the outside. The label peeling unit facilitates loading of paper sheets.
US08708017B2

Elongate tire-building equipment having circumference-defining apparatus wherein the circumference serves as a forming surface or as a circumference-engaging surface utilizes ramp members which are regularly disposed about the equipment centerline and upon which the circumference-defining apparatus is mounted for movement radially toward and away from the equipment centerline. A thrust plate and an actuator are mounted at the ends of the equipment for movement toward or away from one another along the equipment centerline, and an assembly of guide tracks and guide blocks are interposed between the ramp members and the thrust plate and between the ramp members and the actuator so that the movement of the thrust plate and the actuator toward and away from one another effects the movement of the ramp members radially toward and away from the equipment centerline by a relatively large amount.
US08708016B2

A process and apparatus for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels, includes building, on a toroidal support, a carcass structure including at least one carcass ply associated, at axially opposite end edges thereof, with annular anchoring structures, the building step of the carcass structure includes forming at least one reinforcing structure, operatively associated with the annular anchoring structures through deposition on the toroidal support of at least one reinforcing element along a predetermined curvilinear deposition path. The deposition of the at least one reinforcing element includes the steps of: cutting to size a piece of at least one reinforcing continuous band-like element fed by a feeding device along a predetermined feeding direction, deforming the piece obtained according to the curvature of a deposition part of the deposition path intended to receive the piece, and depositing the deformed piece at the deposition part.
US08707988B2

The invention relates to a water inlet arrangement for the use in fish tanks in aquaculture, including a pipe to feed water into the tank, the pipe having a plurality of openings and, for a better adjustment of the flow, a surrounding second element having a plurality of openings and/or a fixed or adjustable shield are provided.
US08707985B2

A removable casing for a fire sprinkler head encases the sprinkler head to stop unwanted water spray. The casing has hinged shells that latch closed to form a watertight interior space. One or both of the shells have gaskets that contact the opposite shell to seal off the interior space. The hinges and latches may be adjustable to make the casing easier to fit over the sprinkler head and to fasten tightly. Each shell may have one or more necks configured to fit tightly around a pipe when the casing is closed. A drain having a valve may be disposed through one or both of the shells to prevent initial pressure buildup and to allow the removal of accumulated water from inside the casing. The casing fills with water until the flow out of the sprinkler head stops, allowing the rest of the fire sprinkler system to remain active.
US08707984B2

A valve fastening element (1) for attaching a hydraulic valve (2) to a tractor (13). The valve fastening element (1) includes a tractor part (1a) adapted to be attached on the tractor and a valve part (1b adapted for direct assembly of the valve (2), wherein the valve (2) includes at least two screw holes (10,11,12), each adapted to receive a screw (3,4,5). The valve part (1b) of the valve fastening element (1) includes at least two slits (6,7,8), of which at least a first slit (6,8) includes an opening (6a,8a) adapted to let the head of the screw pass, and all slits include a groove (6b,7,8b,8c) that is sufficiently narrow to prevent the head of the screw (3,4,5) from passing but sufficiently wide to allow the thread of the screw (3,4,5) to pass.
US08707981B2

Disclosed is a system and an associated valve assembly that are adapted to increase the efficiency of an upstream water meter. By way of the valve assembly entrained water bubbles can be removed from a water supply. This, in turn, increases the density of the water running through the water meter. This ensures that the water meter is not inaccurately including entrained air as metered water. The result is more accurate water readings and reduced utility bills.
US08707979B2

A method and apparatus for tapping into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection and an adjustable tapping clamp with adjustable support/locking feet, compression plate with view ports, and angularly adjustable hot tapping system, along with a drill/saw system.
US08707978B2

Where the loss of volatile organics during storage of high gravity oil is minimized by forming a flowable or pumpable gel in the high gravity oil, (and/or condensates and distillates), as they are introduced to a storage vessel, the gel is broken by the addition of a small amount of an amine/formaldehyde reaction product, which may be either a triazine or a mixture of non-triazine reaction products. The previously gelled hydrocarbon may then by more readily moved by draining or pumping into a pipeline.
US08707975B2

An articulated grip pad is disclosed which includes a vertical supporting member that has a generally spherical bottom end. The crutch also includes a gripping pad having a bore. The generally spherical end of the vertical support is securely received into the bore.
US08707971B2

A chamber with a fluid distribution network for uniform fluid flow within the chamber is provided. The chamber includes a first chamber wall that has a first surface and an opposing interior surface. The first surface is formed with a first set of channels, and the interior surface is exposed to the interior of the chamber and includes a plurality of interior ports that are connected to a plurality of the first set of channels. The chamber also includes a second chamber wall that has a second surface and an opposing exterior surface. The second surface has a second set of channels that partially intersect the first set of channels when the first surface is mated with the second surface. The exterior surface also includes at least one exterior port that provides access to the second set of channels.
US08707970B2

An integrated oral health hygiene system including at least one oral health care product such as an electric toothbrush, dental floss and dental rinse/wash. In addition, the system includes a retractable toothbrush and an aperture to storage multiple devices including but not limit to batteries, pills, toothpick and others.
US08707963B2

The joint implant manufacturer obtains and compiles surgeon-specific surgical and supply preference information in relation to a supplied joint implant prior to surgery. The manufacturer designates and trains at least one surgical team member using the surgeon-specific preference information and then supplies the service of the surgical team member(s) together with the supplied joint implant and supplies. The surgical team member(s) perform surgical procedures on the patient to assist the surgeon in removing a defective joint and replacing it with the supplied implant in accordance with the surgeon's surgical preferences.
US08707961B1

A Mayo stand cover and integrated medical waste refuse container that includes a pair of thin plastic sheets sealed together to cover the top and bottom of a Mayo stand with a liquid barrier and a strategically positioned, substantially rectangular visually clear sealable plastic refuse container sheet attached in a specific area of the Mayo stand cover to be positioned vertically perpendicular to the Mayo stand. The refuse container allows surgical personnel direct access for disposing of surgical waste and a visual opportunity to determine what has been placed in the refuse bag for counting purposes, and prevents waste material from falling out during removal of the Mayo stand cover after surgery.
US08707960B2

A method of maintaining airway patency in an airway of a patient. The method includes the steps of implanting a device into airway-forming tissue without affixing the device to the tissue and permitting a bioerodable portion of the device to bioerode to apply a force to the airway-forming tissue to maintain airway patency. The invention also provides devices for practicing the method.
US08707957B2

A device and method of using the device for contraception or sterilization and particularly for reversible contraception by occluding a reproductive lumen to prevent the passage of reproductive cells through the lumen for a desired period of time until the patient wishes to become fertile again and then be reopened. The occluding member preferably comprises a tubular framework formed from a shape memory material configured to be implanted in a reproductive lumen. The occluding member is implanted within a body lumen, secured to the wall of the reproductive lumen and then collapsed to collapse the wall and occlude the lumen. Alternatively, the occluding member may be collapsed upon a solid plug. The closure of the reproductive lumen may be reversed by introducing a balloon catheter and by a series of inflations of the balloon reexpanding the collapsed occluding member or by removing the plug. The occluding member and the plug may be configured to facilitate endothelialization, to provoke an inflammatory responses or to deliver a drug.
US08707955B2

Methods, apparatus, and kits for enhancing breathing in patients suffering from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease are described. The methods and apparatus rely on increasing flow resistance to expiration in a manner which mimics “pursed lip” breathing which has been found to benefit patients suffering from this disease. In a first example, a device is implanted in a trachea or bronchial passage to increase flow resistance, preferably selectively increase resistance to expiration relative to inspiration. In a second embodiment, a mouthpiece is provided, again to increase resistance to expiration, preferably with a lesser increase in flow resistance to inspiration. In a third embodiment, the patient's trachea or bronchial passage is modified by the application of energy in order to partially close the lumen therethrough.
US08707954B2

Provided is a method that includes automatically providing air/oxygen at a pre-selected maximum pressure limit, breath volume and respiratory-rate. The pre-selected maximum pressure limit, breath volume, and respiratory-rate are automatically set as a function of a size of a mask coupled to an air/oxygen supply system. Further provided is a ventilator system that includes a ventilator mask, a ventilator supply system, and a mask conduit. The ventilator mask is configured in a size that will fit upon a selected range of sizes of human faces. The ventilator supply system includes an air/oxygen source and an air/oxygen regulator system configured to regulate air/oxygen flow parameters as a function of the size of the mask. The mask conduit is configured to couple the ventilator supply to the ventilator mask.
US08707939B2

A percussion and magazine revolving device of toy grenade launcher includes a magazine. The magazine forms annularly arranged cylindrical accommodation chambers receiving therein grenades and has a circumference along which holding pegs are arranged. A release plate is attached to the magazine and forms a pawl for selective engagement with the holding pegs. A trigger and a percussion mechanism coupled to the trigger are arranged on a carrier seat. The percussion mechanism has a top edge o which a drive bar is mounted. The magazine is rotated to compress an elastic element arranged therein. When the trigger is pulled, the percussion mechanism is caused to fire one grenade, and at the same time, the drive bar pushes the release plate away to make the pawl disengaging the holding pegs, thereby allowing the magazine to rotate an angle for being ready to fire the next grenade.
US08707935B2

Various systems and methods are described for operating an engine system having a sensor coupled to an exhaust gas recirculation system in a motor vehicle. One example method comprises during a first operating condition, directing at least some exhaust gas from an exhaust of the engine through the exhaust gas recirculation system and past the sensor to an intake of the engine and, during a second operating condition, directing at least some fresh air through the exhaust gas recirculation system and past the sensor.
US08707926B2

A cylinder head cover structure of a vehicle which can shorten a longitudinal length of a vehicle while avoiding the restriction on the layout of an engine. A motorcycle includes a vehicle body frame, an engine which is mounted on the vehicle body frame in a suspended manner and includes a cylinder head cover and a radiator which is arranged in front of the engine and behind a front wheel. A recessed portion which is recessed toward a rear side of the vehicle is formed in the cylinder head cover so as to allow a lower portion of the radiator to enter the recessed portion.
US08707925B2

An intake tract is provided for combustion air of a vehicle. The intake tract includes, but is not limited to an intake opening and an intake channel. At the end of the intake channel a sound source is arranged, which is sound-dampened by a sound damping device in the intake channel. An air filter is arranged between part regions of the intake channel and downstream of the air filter an air mass sensor is provided in an intake channel section, wherein the intake channel section of the air mass sensor includes, but is not limited to the sound damping device.
US08707924B2

An engine is driven by a starter including a pinion gear that can be engaged with a ring gear coupled to a crankshaft; an actuator causing, in a driven state, the pinion gear to be moved to a position where the pinion gear is engaged with the ring gear; and a motor causing the pinion gear to be rotated. The engine is provided with a rotation angle sensor for detecting rotation of the crankshaft. ECU detects the crank angle of the crankshaft based on a signal from the rotation angle sensor after the actuator is driven and the motor is driven.
US08707921B2

A method for operating a laser device which has a laser-active solid and a preferably passive Q-switch in which the laser device is acted upon by pumped light for generating a laser pulse. The radiation spontaneously emitted by the laser device is analyzed for drawing a conclusion about an operating state of the laser device, in particular about a laser pulse being generated.
US08707912B2

A furnace of a boiler for a power plant includes an outer water tube section adapted to receive water from the outside and heat the water into hot water (including steam); and an inner water tube section adapted to receive water from the outside and heat the water into hot water (including steam) while allowing the water to be moved upwardly. The outer water tube section is formed in a shape gradually increasing or substantially uniform in diameter from the bottom toward the middle portion M, and gradually decreasing, increasing and decreasing again in diameter from the middle portion M toward the top, and the inner water tube section is formed in a shape gradually decreasing and increasing in diameter from the bottom toward the middle portion M, and gradually decreasing, increasing and decreasing again in diameter from the middle portion M toward the top.
US08707907B2

Kick bar assemblies mounted to an opposite side walls of a squeeze chute structure each include an upright shaft that is rotatably mounted to the squeeze chute wall. Each kick bar assembly connects at one end to an actuator for rotating the shaft and at the other end to a kick bar which may be pivoted by the actuator between a first retracted position, a second normal extended position in which the kick bar is generally normal to the wall of the squeeze chute and a third forward position in which the kick bar is rotated forward of the normal position and defines an acute angle with the squeeze chute wall. The actuators controlling the motion of the kick bars are capable of being simultaneously remotely controlled to act in unison.
US08707906B1

An elevated animal perch assembly provides a perch for an animal permitting play or relaxation in an elevated position away from other animals and an alternative to perching on existing furniture. The assembly includes at least one track section having a pair of spaced rails and a plurality of spaced cross members coupled to and extending across the rails. A plurality of chains each has a lower end coupled to the track section. Each chain has an upper end configured for coupling to a ceiling. A top bracket is also provided having a first flange coupled to the track section and a second flange configured for coupling to a wall for bracing the track section relative to the wall.
US08707903B2

Devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods related to animal enclosures. Specifically, the disclosed devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods relate to animal enclosure floor seal systems that may be coupled to an animal enclosure wall and may impede, restrict and/or reduce debris from entering or exiting the animal enclosure. In this manner, likelihood of contamination of the animal enclosure may be reduced.
US08707887B2

A temperature sensing indicator provided with a capsule having a temperature sensing material contained that can be used without being affected by the temperature of fingers and allows the capsule to be easily broken. The temperature sensing indicator irreversibly indicates that a sensed temperature is not lower than a predetermined temperature or not higher than the predetermined temperature when a capsule containing a temperature sensing material is broken. The temperature sensing indicator has a body base made of a plastic material having a recess section formed therein; the capsule contained in the recess and containing the temperature sensing material, an absorbing member mounted on the upper part of the recess, and in which a through hole that exposes a portion of the upper surface of the absorbing member is formed. Pressing the display label crushes the recess in the body base to break the capsule.
US08707880B2

A multi-hulled vessel (10) configured as a trimaran. The multi-hulled vessel (10) comprises a main hull (15) and at least one outer hull (17) to each side of the main hull. The multi-hulled vessel (10) is provided with motion control means (40) for providing damping to wave-induced motion, thereby offering ride control. The motion control means (40) comprises a forward motion damping device (41) disposed adjacent the bow (25) of the main hull (15), and two aft dampening devices (43) disposed one adjacent the stern (33) of each side hull (17). With this arrangement, one of the motion damping devices (41, 43) is located at or near each apex of a notional triangular envelope (44) of the vessel (10). Each motion damping device (41, 43) is configured to resist wave-induced motion of the multi-hulled vessel (10) and thereby provide a damping effect. Each motion damping device (41, 43) may comprise an underwater hydrofoil (45), although other damping arrangements are possible.
US08707878B2

A system includes a first chamber configured to hold a liquid and a second chamber configured to hold the particles. A first pump transfers the particles from the second chamber to a third chamber. A first valve during a first time period regulates the delivery of the liquid into the third chamber through a first opening. A second opening directs jets of liquid from the third chamber during the first time period to form holes in the ground. A second valve is operable during a second time period to regulate the first pump to transfer the particles to the third chamber. The first valve is operable during a third time period to regulate the delivery of the liquid to the third chamber through the first opening causing jets of the particles to be directed through the second opening into the holes.
US08707872B2

Provided is a railway vehicle having a configuration which can sufficiently protect the cabin even when large external force is applied to the end structures thereof. The vehicle body of the railway vehicle is formed by joining an underframe 20, side structures 30, end structures 50, and a roof structure 60 together. An upper reinforcement beam 56 in the railroad tie direction is disposed at the upper portion of the end structure. A plurality of post reinforcement members are disposed in the vertical direction so as to stand on an end beam 26 of the underframe. The post reinforcement members and the upper reinforcement beam are respectively connected by an end post in the vertical direction disposed at an intermediate portion in the end structure width direction and corner posts 54 in the vertical direction disposed at both end portions in the end structure width direction. The respective post reinforcement members are inserted from the front side into the end post and the corner posts through openings 53a, 54a disposed on the vehicle body inner sides of the end post and the corner posts, and then the end structure is moved in a horizontal direction so as to be assembled.
US08707866B2

An independent mandrel trip system wherein a mandrel support block retaining a mandrel is connected to a shaft mounting block in a manner such that the mandrel support block can be reciprocatingly retracted and extended relative to the shaft mounting block in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel. The system includes parallel front and rear plate members to which are mounted linear bearing assemblies such that mandrel support block is supported in the front and the rear.
US08707863B2

A machine for wrapping a strap in one or two loops around a package has a support frame and first and second upright generally annular strap-guiding channels. The channels each have confronting ends defining a respective gap that are immediately adjacent each other, and the package is engageable within the annular channels. A single-loop guide fittable in the gap of the first channel has a guide groove extending in a single-loop mode between the ends of the first channel. A double-loop guide fittable in a dual-loop mode in the gaps of the first and second channels has first and second crossing guide grooves that extend between one of the ends of the first channel and one of the ends of the second channel and the second guide groove extending between the other of the ends of the first channel and the other of the ends of the second channel.
US08707862B1

Methods and apparatuses for cooking food are provided. In particular, food is placed in a bowl held at an angle to horizontal. With the food in the bowl, the bowl is simultaneously heated and rotated. A scraper assembly is disposed within the bowl, to lift the food from the side and bottom surfaces of the bowl as the bowl rotates. A temperature sensor can be provided to provide a signal to discontinue rotation of the bowl and the application of heat to the bowl when the food has reached a desired temperature. A tilt mechanism can also be provided to maintain the food within a desired distance from the top edge of the bowl.
US08707861B2

An apparatus for pasteurizing a dry food product comprises an impingement chamber, a conveyor for conveying the dry food product through the impingement chamber; a heater and water supply assembly for generating heated, moist air, and a fan for circulating the heated, moist air through the impingement chamber and onto the dry food product. In operation, the moisture in the heated, moist air condenses on the surface of the dry food product and produces a heat of condensation which heats the surface of the dry food product. Moreover, this heat of condensation is sufficient to kill a percentage of any pathogenic microorganisms which may be present on the surface of the dry food product.
US08707850B1

A rifle with an upper receiver and a barrel attached to the upper receiver and including a bolt carrier, and operating, buffer, and cooling systems. The operating system includes a cylinder and a piston coupled to receive propelling gases from the barrel. As the piston moves between retracted and extended positions the bolt carrier is moved between closed and open positions. The bolt carrier includes a weight movable within a guide frame between rearward and forward limits. The buffer system includes a compression spring in a tube attached to the upper receiver in abutting engagement with the bolt carrier. A partially fluid filled cylinder is attached to a coil of the spring and includes a piston and shaft. The piston is formed so that fluid in the cylinder restricts movement in one direction and allows free movement in a second direction.
US08707848B2

An armor blast shield for use on the bottom of a vehicle to protect occupants of the vehicle from improvised explosive devices. A preferred embodiment is configured in a V-shaped configuration formed by at least two planar blast resistant panels and an I-beam having channels with inclined walls which receive the panels at an obtuse angle. The panels are adhesively adhered to the I-beam channel walls and at least one bolt is secured through the I-beam and a panel to provide superior blast resistant performance as compared to welded panels.
US08707843B1

The present invention provides an improved kinematic countermeasure flare and method of constructing the same wherein the housing has integrated internal features. The flare nose weight is set at the end of a die core prior to molding for integration with the housing. Longitudinal grooves and other recesses in the die core allow for the formation of internal longitudinal ribs which propellant can bond to and a retaining bead for retaining the nose weight in the housing which are integrated with the housing. Propellant is cast into the formed housing. A propellant shaping mandrel is then inserted into the formed housing thereby forcing the propellant into the internal cavity created by the integrally molded longitudinal ribs, the shaping mandrel and the wall of the flare housing such that the propellant is bonded to the interior housing wall and the longitudinal ribs. This improved housing and method of construction eliminates the need to apply a non-flammable coating to propellant surfaces after its addition to the flare housing which a an imprecise and time consuming process.
US08707838B2

A cutting arrangement for longitudinally cutting material includes two blades disposed across from one another and which cooperate during cutting. Each blade is embodied as a circular blade having a sharp cutting edge and supported by an adjusting or placement mechanism. During the cutting process, the circular blades are positioned by the adjusting or placement mechanisms so that the cutting edges overlap one another to form an overlap zone, the center of which coincides with the middle of the material that is to be cut. An adaptive control assembly includes individual drive motors for driving each blade and enables constant side load force control for each blade, such that side load pressures are adjustable in response to changes in web sped, web tension, and blade condition in real time. Automatic blade diameter sensors calculate the zero point of the cut, determine the appropriate blade speed and automatically set the overlap.
US08707833B1

A set of pliers having either right or left offset handles, each of which provides clearance for a user's hand when used for gripping an object protruding from a large flat surface. The pliers include adjustable slip-joint tongue-and-groove plier jaws with offset angled handles. The handles are intermediately angled to a right side or left side to allow gripping or rotating of an object located in close proximity to a flat wall or floor surface, while maintaining a parallel relationship between the pliers and the adjacent surface. The pliers also include jaw covers to protect fine surfaces, and contrasting colored handle grips.
US08707832B2

An open wrench includes integral handle and first driving head. The first driving head has a U-shaped body which has a mounting hole defined therein and an opening communicates with the mounting hole. Each of top surface and bottom surface of the first driving head has a first face and a second face. The second face is a U-shaped face and located along with the mounting hole. The first face is a U-shaped face and located outside of the second face. A U-shaped groove is defined between the first and second faces.
US08707827B2

A device for extracting a cork from a bottle comprising a generally T-shaped handle mounted on a housing having an upper end and a lower end, a shaft which is operatively connected to handle for axial and rotational movement therewith, the shaft having a hollow passage with an air intake and an air exhausting hole. The shaft depending from the lower end of the housing for griping and penetrating the cork longitudinally thereby presenting the air exhausting hole to the interior of the bottle. A pump configured to push for selectively pumping air from the housing through the shaft into the bottle between the cork and the contents of the bottle such that air in the bottle forces the cork out of the bottle in conjunction with force applied by pulling the T-shaped handle.
US08707826B2

An axle having a variable volume sump. The axle includes an axle housing that defines a gear chamber and a separate reservoir. The gear chamber and the reservoir are in fluid communication with each other via an opening. A regulator is located adjacent the opening. The regulator is operable to assume a first closed position that obstructs the opening when a temperature in the axle is below a predetermined value, and is also operable to assume a second open position that places the gear chamber and the reservoir in fluid communication via the opening when the temperature is above the predetermined value.
US08707824B2

A bottom bracket, which has a shaft, a first pedal crank, which is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the shaft, a second pedal crank, which is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the shaft, and a chainring carrier, which is connected to the shaft. The object of providing a bottom bracket with a chainring carrier that is easy to assemble is achieved by the chainring carrier being connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a chainring shaft and by the chainring shaft being connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the shaft.
US08707811B2

The present invention relates to a spindle drive having a first load path which is formed by the spindle and having a second load path which is formed by a torsion bar which is exposed to torsion, which is arranged in the spindle and is connected to it such that a rotary movement is exerted onto the spindle in at least one state of the threaded drive by the torsion bar, with the spindle drive having a sensor unit which is made such that it detects a relative movement between the spindle and the torsion bar.
US08707809B2

The multi-selective micromanipulator has a main mover which moves linearly or rotationally with respect to an axis, an actuator which moves the main mover, a projection which is formed on the main mover, and a plurality of submovers which the projection selectively contacts depending on the movement of the main mover, wherein a selected submover is linearly moved by the projection in a direction parallel to the axis direction.
US08707807B2

A system includes an internal combustion engine producing an exhaust stream, a particulate filtering device that treats the exhaust stream, a particulate sensor operatively coupled to the exhaust stream at a position downstream of the particulate filtering device, and a temperature sensor operatively coupled to the exhaust stream. The system includes a controller that interprets a particulate sensor particulate stability condition, interprets a particulate sensor input value and a particulate sensor temperature, compensates the particulate sensor input value in response to the particulate sensor temperature, and filters the compensated particulate sensor input value. The controller determines a soot accumulation value in response to the filtered compensated particulate sensor input value, interprets a diagnostic enable condition, and determines a particulate filter diagnostic value in response to the active diagnostic enable condition and the soot accumulation value. The controller provides the particulate filter diagnostic value to an output device.
US08707789B2

A syringe having an internal pressure gauge comprises a syringe barrel; a piston within the barrel; a spring coupled to the piston at a first position of the spring, the spring having a second portion that is movable in response to fluid pressure within a syringe cavity; and a pressure gauge having an indicator correlated to a plurality of positions of the second portion of the spring to indicate a pressure of a fluid. The spring can be a bellows. The first portion of the spring can be coupled to the piston to form a sliding seal with an inner wall of the syringe, and the second portion of the spring can move longitudinally within the syringe without sealing contact.
US08707787B1

A method and apparatus for detecting an inconsistency in an object. Signals sent on a plurality of paths in the object are received at a plurality of transducer units associated with the object. Time delays are identified for a number of modes in the signals received at the plurality of transducer units. A determination is made as to whether a time delay in the time delays for the number of modes in the signals has a difference from a number of other time delays for the number of modes that is greater than a desired amount.
US08707776B2

A vehicle having a device for acquiring and transmitting at least one measurement signal that characterizes the state of a vehicle tire, such as tire air pressure and/or tire air temperature, having at least one sensor module that is supplied with electrical energy by an energy supply device and that contains at least one tire air pressure sensor and/or at least one tire air temperature sensor, the energy supply device having at least one generator that rotates with the vehicle tire as well as at least one magnetic field generator, an electrical voltage being produced in the generator by electromagnetic induction. The magnetic field generator is situated on a brake caliper of a disc brake of the vehicle.
US08707769B2

A power plant analyzer for analyzing a plurality of power plants, comprising: an analyzing apparatus for analyzing a first parameter indicative of fuel flow to a first power plant, a second parameter indicative of fuel burned in the first power plant, a third parameter indicative of fuel flow to a second power plant and a fourth parameter indicative of fuel burned in the second power plant; and an alert generation apparatus, responsive to the analyzing apparatus, for generating an alert for the first or the second power plant, and wherein analyzing the first, second, third and fourth parameters comprises carrying out a differential analysis between the first and third parameters to produce a first result, and to carry out a differential analysis between the second and fourth parameters to produce a second result, and comparing the first and second results.
US08707765B2

A fuel vapor leak detection device for detecting a leakage of fuel vapor includes a pump which pressurizes or depressurizes insides of a fuel tank and a canister, a motor which drives the pump, an electrical current detector which detects a current value applied to the motor, a switching valve, and a controller. The switching valve includes an air passage having a narrowing part therein and communicating with atmosphere, a first passage connecting to the pump, a canister connection passage connecting to the canister, and a second passage connecting to the pump. The controller controls a switching operation of the switching valve based on the current value detected by the electrical current detector to select one of a communication between the air passage and the first passage, and a communication between the canister connection passage and the second passage.
US08707761B2

A shielding part is formed on a detection part in a particulate matter detection element. The detection part has a pair of detection electrodes formed in a comb structure. A shielding layer is made of heat insulating material and formed on the detection part in order to shield a predetermined area having non-uniform electric field intensity. An area having uniform electric field intensity on the detection part is exposed only to exhaust gas as target detection gas when a predetermined voltage is supplied between the detection electrodes in order to detect electric characteristics of the detection part. This structure prevents the area other than the area having the uniform electric field intensity on the detection part from being exposed to the exhaust gas.
US08707758B2

A system and method of monitoring sobriety using a hand-held breath testing device that, on receipt of a user's breath, generates a breath test signal comprising substance content data and user identification data, and wirelessly transmits the breath test signal to a breath test signal receiving station. The breath test signal includes substance content data and user identification data. The substance content data includes at least one of: a blood alcohol level and a narcotics presence. The user identification data includes compressed image data. The signal receiving station is monitored by a supervisor who is able to intervene should the substance level be greater than a predetermined threshold, or should the user identification data no match with a reference user identification data.
US08707755B2

A reference vibrator 10 of the present invention includes: a vibrator body 11 configured to mount to a mount 4 in an unbalance measurement device 1 to which a rotary product is mounted at the time of unbalance measurement, in a same mounting state as the rotary product; a vibration generator 12 fixed to the vibrator body 11 and that applies vibrations to the vibrator body 11; and a control unit 13 that controls the vibration generator 12. Because vibration is caused by the vibration generator 12 fixed to the vibrator body 11, repeatability of vibration force is high. This makes it possible to apply vibrations for repeatability check to the unbalance measurement device 1 with an accurate vibration force. Thus, variations in vibration force can be eliminated, and the repeatability of the unbalance measurement device 1 can be properly checked.
US08707752B2

A calibration assembly is disclosed. In one embodiment, a calibration assembly calibrating a downhole formation evaluation tool includes a calibration base having a first geometry, a calibration insert including a first material and having a second geometry, and a second material having a third geometry and being different from the first material. The second geometry enables the calibration insert to receive the second material to form a first composite region, wherein the first and second materials and the second and third geometries are selected such that a calibration property of the calibration assembly apparatus substantially matches a corresponding calibration property of a third material. Additional apparatuses, devices, and methods are also disclosed.
US08707747B1

A process for manufacturing a shaped sandwich panel includes arranging a sandwich panel adjacent a die. The sandwich panel includes a core layer arranged between and connected to a first layer and a second layer. The core layer includes a plurality of apertures that extend through the core layer to the first layer. The first layer engages the die. Fluid within the apertures is pressurized to a pressure adequate to at least partially form the sandwich panel to a geometry of the die.
US08707735B2

A narrow neck glass container includes a container body and a container neck finish. The container neck finish has an external closure attachment diameter of not more than 36 mm, and the container body has at least one internal embossment of predetermined geometry. The at least one internal embossment preferably comprises a plurality of internal embossments in a geometric pattern.
US08707734B2

A method of embedding material in a glass substrate is provided. The method includes providing a glass composition and a mold substrate having a patterned surface defining a recess therein. The mold substrate is formed from a material having a higher reflow temperature than the glass composition. A surface wettability of the patterned surface is increased relative to the glass composition. At least a portion of the glass composition is flowed into the recess defined by the patterned surface of the mold substrate, followed by solidifying the glass composition to form a solidified glass layer. Material is removed from the solidified glass layer until a portion of the underlying patterned surface of the mold substrate is exposed with at least a portion of the mold substrate embedded in the solidified glass layer to thereby form the glass substrate having the material embedded therein.
US08707715B2

A thermoelectric conversion unit includes first and second cases including first and second recesses that define first and second flow passages and have openings, first and second substrates, a plurality of thermoelectric devices in contact with inner surfaces of the first and second substrates, a connector for joining the first and second cases, first and second fins protruding from the first and second substrates in the first and second flow passages. The first and second cases include first and second opposed portions opposed to the first and second substrates outside the first and second recess, respectively. A spacer for setting distance between the first opposed portion and the second opposed portion is provided. The spacer sets the distance between the first and second opposed portions to be longer than distance between the outer surface of the first substrate and the outer surface of the second substrate.
US08707708B2

A combustor liner with an input end and an output end includes an annular inner wall and an annular outer wall. At least one of the inner wall and outer wall is three-dimensionally contoured. The inner wall and the outer wall form a combustion chamber with the contours creating alternating expanding and constricting regions inside the chamber causing combustion gases to flow in the circumferential and axial directions.
US08707704B2

A method of assembling a turbine engine includes defining a first chamber and defining a second chamber. The method also includes forming at least one venturi device oriented with a predetermined venturi step angle greater than approximately 48°. The method further includes coupling the first chamber in flow communication with the second chamber via the venturi device therebetween.
US08707703B2

A swirler arrangement for injecting a fluid into a tubular swirling chamber is provided. The swirler arrangement includes a first radial swirler device and a second radial swirler device. The swirler arrangement is fixed around an internal circulation zone of the tubular swirling chamber. The first radial swirler device includes first vanes, wherein the first vanes are formed to inject the fluid into the internal circulation zone with a first injecting angle. The second radial swirler device includes second vanes, wherein the second vanes are formed to inject the fluid into the internal circulation zone with a second injecting angle. The first injecting angle and the second injecting angle are defined by an angle between an injecting direction of the fluid and the tangential direction along the inner surface. A method of injecting a fluid into a tubular swirling chamber by the swirler arrangement is also provided.
US08707702B2

In a method and a device for utilizing heat transported by a discontinuous flow of exhaust gases (1), the discontinuous flow of exhaust gases (1) is emitted in phases (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5) with, in each case, constant output values for volume flowing (Va) and temperature (Ta) from an industrial installation, particularly an industrial furnace, wherein the discontinuous flow of exhaust gases (1) is converted into a continuous working flow (2) with adjustable, constant target values for the volume flowing (Vz) and the temperature (Tz). The continuous working flow (2), with the heat contained therein, is used for the conversion of thermal energy into useful energy.
US08707701B2

A thermodynamic system and method of producing useful work includes providing a working fluid and a fluid pump, or compressor, for pumping the working fluid in a cycle. A thermal input is provided for supplying heat to the working fluid. An expansion device downstream of the thermal input converts motion of the working fluid to useful work. A heat pump is provided. A number of different means of implementing the heat pump are presented, including direct transfer of working fluid mass flow. The heat pump pumps heat from one portion of the working fluid to another portion of the working fluid. For some applications, a regenerator, or recuperator, may be used to transfer heat from a high temperature portion of the working fluid to a lower temperature portion.
US08707694B2

A device or actuator includes a first component made of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) that applies force to a second component of the device to provide a controllable actuator. The SMA component is selectively energized by using active electric current through it.
US08707691B2

A hydrostatic drive, in particular a fan drive, with a variable displacement pump is configured to drive at least one hydraulic motor. The variable displacement pump is activated via a pressure regulating valve and a following directional valve predetermining the feed direction, via which valves the control spaces of an actuating cylinder can be acted upon with a control pressure difference. The variable displacement pump is prestressed into a basic position in which the feed volume flow is maximum.
US08707688B2

In a commercial vehicle with an internal combustion engine, a muffler in the exhaust gas system, and a heat recovery system, including a medium-containing circuit having at least one pump, an evaporator, an expander, and a condenser, the evaporator present in the medium-containing circuit of the heat recovery system is placed so that the evaporator is integrated into the muffler, where it either is installed in the tailpipe or partially replaces it, or is attached externally to the muffler, and an end section of the tailpipe, or is integrated into the tailpipe, which extends from the muffler and proceeds vertically upward behind the driver's cab, the evaporator being either installed in the tailpipe or partially replacing it, or is integrated into a muffler, which is installed in an exhaust pipe proceeding vertically upward behind the driver's cab.
US08707685B2

An exhaust gas purification device for an engine has a filter in an engine exhaust passage, a diesel oxidation catalyst upstream of the filter, and a control unit which effects combustion using the catalyst to perform Active Regeneration of the filter by injecting fuel when no contribution is made to combustion in a combustion chamber when the quantity of particles collected in the filter reaches a predetermined quantity, or is less than the predetermined quantity and an elapsed time from the last filter reconditioning reaches a predetermined time. In the control unit, a mixing quantity of the fuel in oil at Active Regeneration and an evaporation quantity of the fuel from the oil are calculated, whereby a mixing ratio of the fuel in the oil is calculated, and the predetermined time or an engine operation mode is adjusted such that the mixing ratio does not exceed a prescribed control value.
US08707678B2

A system for improving operation of an engine having a particulate matter sensor is presented. The system may be used to improve engine operation during cold starts especially under conditions where water vapor or entrained water droplets are present in vehicle exhaust gases. In one embodiment, an engine controller that activates a heater of an exhaust gas sensor after an output of a particulate matter sensor exceeds a threshold value after an engine is started.
US08707672B2

A combustor includes an end cap having a perforated downstream plate and a combustion chamber downstream of the downstream plate. A plenum is in fluid communication with the downstream plate and supplies a cooling medium to the combustion chamber through the perforations in the downstream plate. A method for cooling a combustor includes flowing a cooling medium into a combustor end cap and impinging the cooling medium on a downstream plate in the combustor end cap. The method further includes flowing the cooling medium into a combustion chamber through perforations in the downstream plate.
US08707670B2

A cable protection and guide device is capable of preventing noise and abrasion powder generated by a flexion outer circumferential connecting arm and avoiding disconnection of the arm. The device includes: a number of link frame bodies each having link side plates each having a front side plate portion connected longitudinally to a preceding link side plate to form a cable flexion inner circumferential side; a rear side plate portion connected longitudinally to a succeeding link side plate to form a cable flexion outer circumferential side; and, a flexible linkage portion interposed between the front and rear side plate portions. The link frame body also includes a flexion outer circumferential-side connecting arm whose flexion outer circumferential-side surface is provided so as to be closer to the cable flexion inner circumferential side than a flexion outer circumferential edge of the rear side plate portion.
US08707666B2

A rope system comprising a rope structure comprising an intact portion comprising intact strands and a disassembled portion comprising loose strands. The loose strands are passed into an interior of the rope structure. Each loose strand is passed from the interior of the rope structure to the exterior of the rope structure adjacent to an associated intact strand. Each loose strand is extended along and wrapped around its associated intact strand at at least one wrap location.
US08707663B2

An apparatus for the treatment of flexible, hose-like objects, such as bags, in which the processing devices are located on a guide track above the objects to be treated, which processing devices and guide track are suspended from a framework with an empty space underneath.
US08707662B2

A packaging machine for producing sealed packages from a web of packaging material having a surface of uneven thickness comprises a pressure roller to press the surface against a corresponding forming roller for sealing the package. The pressure roller comprises an elastically deformable body; and a core of greater rigidity housed therein, with the core comprising a first end surface cooperating with the body, and a radially inner second end surface. The core includes a first portion and a second portion, with the radial distance between the first and second surface at the first portion being greater than at the second portion.
US08707654B2

A variety of roof mount sealing assemblies are disclosed. The roof mount sealing assemblies allow a user to mount rails for solar panels, signs, satellite dish or any other desired item on the roof and have the mounting location sealed against water. The roof mount sealing assemblies has a body with a recess for a flexible washer, which is attached to a bolt body (or formed with the bolt body) and threaded either down in a base plate or directly into the roof. The bolt body and body form a double stud assembly, which also holds a flashing onto the roof to provide further water proofing.
US08707648B2

Systems and methods for installing one or more modular panels onto a wall or other surface. Such systems may include at least one panel retainer mounted to a substrate and at least one panel connected to the panel retainer in a removable fashion. In these systems, the interaction of at least one panel insert and at least one attachment structure facilitates connecting the panel to the panel retainer in a removable fashion.
US08707647B2

A roofing system for application on a roofing substrate wherein flexible supports alleviate fatiguing of the roofing sheeting which typically occurs due to thermal expansion and contraction, thus enabling thicker roofing sheeting to be used and thus extending the usable life of the roofing sheeting.
US08707642B2

A sheet member fastening system and kit, as well as methods of hanging sheet members on a framework for a wall or ceiling surface are described. Fastening members, comprising substantially flat members and corner members are usable to enable edges of standard sheet members, such as wallboard or the like, to be properly supported and attached adjacent one another by means of the fastening members. The use of the fastening members enables hanging of sheet members on the framework without cutting of the sheet members or measuring of the relationship of the sheet member to the underlying framework, except adjacent a corner of the wall/ceiling surface. The fastening members allow attachment of the edges when not positioned directly on a frame member to properly secure the edges relative to one another. The fastening members are made of a material to accept fastening devices such as screws, staples, nails or the like to secure the sheet members thereto.
US08707639B2

A door lite frame comprises a first frame component comprising first screw bosses and first grip sockets, and a second frame component comprising second screw bosses and second grip sockets. The first and second frame components are constructed to permit arrangement of the first and second frame components in an assembled state and a nested state with respect to one another. In the assembled state, the first screw bosses are correspondingly aligned with the second screw bosses, and the first and second frame components are secured to each other. In the nested state, at least one of the first screw bosses of the first frame component is mated with at least one of the second grip sockets of the second frame component.
US08707638B2

A staircase and method for producing the same. The staircase is produced by double routing channels for sub-treads and sub-risers and capping risers and capping treads. These sub-treads and sub-risers are assembled into staircase stringers that have pre-routed channels that are sufficient to install sub-treads and sub-risers having a particular thickness and having room for subsequent placement or installation of capping treads and risers by sliding them laterally into the channels created by the double routing of the stringers. This creates a more finished look to be (the) staircase while avoiding damages to the capping treads and risers that might occur during building construction.
US08707624B2

A heated sliding window assembly for a vehicle that includes at least one fixed window. A rail is attached to the at least one fixed window. The fixed window may include an electrical contact. A sliding window is moveable along the rail and is moveable between open and closed positions. The sliding window includes a heater grid and an electrical contact. A drive mechanism is attached to the sliding window for moving the sliding window between the open and closed positions. An electrical circuit is included for carrying current to the heater grid. A switch is disposed within the electrical circuit that cuts off current to the heater grid when the sliding window is moved.
US08707622B1

A door opening system for assisting an individual to open a door without having to touch a handle. The door opening system generally includes a connecting member rotatably attached to a wall adjacent a door, a foot pedal attached to a lower end of the connecting member, and a lever attached to an upper end of the connecting member. An engaging member is attached to an upper end of the door to be opened and is engaged by the lever when a user pushes upon the foot pedal causing rotation of the connecting member and the lever. The lever forces the door open so the user does not have to engage handle of the door.
US08707613B2

A fish hook with multiple convex facets is provided. Each facet may have a length that is some multiple of the diameter of the hook body. In addition, each convex facet has a radius of curvature that is some multiple of the diameter of the wire. Each facet may alternatively be formed from first and second convex surfaces, having first and second curvatures.
US08707604B2

A bipod foregrip includes a longitudinally extending mounting base constructed to slidingly engage a mounting rail of a firearm. A fixed gripping portion is affixed to the base adjacent the rear end. A movable gripping portion has a first end pivotally attached adjacent a lower extremity and pivotal between a stored orientation and an extended orientation. The opposed end is positioned in abutting engagement with a lower surface of the mounting base in the stored orientation. Two legs form the movable gripping portion in the stored orientation and extend angularly outwardly and downwardly into a bipod rest in the extended orientation.
US08707601B1

An indicator light for filming is provided having a button wirelessly coupled to an illumination device. The button is placed on a camera while the illumination device is placed on the barrel of a gun. The button is depressed on the camera to indicate that the shooter is free to take the shot.
US08707597B1

A moisture-protected, bi-directionally viewable portable sign display having a rectangular frame with a removable side that enables configuring a plurality of indicia bearing signs and which is supported by a removable support structure that includes features to prevent moisture damage.
US08707593B2

Clothing iron including a sole (1) having a bottom side with a sliding surface (11) coming into contact with cloth and comprising at least one steam-supplied recess (10), the recess (10) being bounded on its entire periphery by the sliding surface (11) in such a manner that the recess (10) forms a steam diffusion cavity that is surrounded by the sliding surface (11) when the sole (1) is applied to the cloth being ironed, characterized in that the depth of the recess (10) is greater than or equal to 1 mm.
US08707592B2

A spiral wrapping for an ironer roller for a chest ironer. Chest ironers have at least one rotatably drivable ironer roller, the lower half of which is surrounded by a stationary ironer bed. The ironer roller is surrounded by an outer spiral wrapping which comes into contact with the item of laundry to be treated. The spiral wrapping is provided with an outer layer produced from a coarse woven fabric which has a higher coefficient of friction. The coefficient of friction of the coarse woven fabric does not alter as the age of the spiral wrapping increases. This means that even in the case of older spiral wrappings, there is sufficient frictional engagement between the spiral wrapping, namely the outer layer, and the item of laundry to be smoothed out.
US08707585B2

A removable cleat for footwear. The cleat includes a disc with opposing faces. A shoe coupling element is attached to one face of the disc. The other disc face supports a cushioning layer. Traction elements are supported by the cushioning layer. When a user steps on a surface wearing a shoe outfitted with these cleats, the resilience of the cushioning layer at once both lessens the impact of the traction elements on the ground surface and lessens the reaction force on the user's foot transmitted through the shoe's outsole. The user's comfort is thereby enhanced.
US08707569B1

A quick change chain saw system includes a swing arm and a hydraulic clamp device. The swing arm extends from the hydraulic clamp device. The swing arm retains drive sprocket components and is retained by a tree harvester or wood processor unit. The hydraulic clamp device includes a hydraulic clamp block, a puck plate, a clamp plate and a detent pin. The puck plate includes a base plate and three stud projections that is actuated with a plurality of pucks in the hydraulic clamp block. Three stud projections extend from the base plate and are inserted through the hydraulic clamp block. The clamp plate is secured to the three stud projections. A spring tensioner is used to bias the chain bar. A retraction tool is used to retract the hydraulic clamp device. The detent pin is used keep the hydraulic clamp in a retracted position for changing the chain blade.
US08707556B2

An injection nozzle sleeve servicing system is provided. The system includes: a guide having two ends and an interior chamber, the guided having threads on one end; an installer screw dimensioned to fit inside the interior chamber, the installer screw having a threaded end and a pushing end; an external nut having two sets of threads wherein each of the two sets of threads on the external nut are threaded in different directions wherein one of the sets of threads on the external nut is configured to communicate with the threads on the guide and the other set of threads on the external nut is configured to communicate with the threads on the installer screw; and a rotational lock in the guide configured to prevent the installer screw from rotating with respect to the guide, wherein when one set of threads on the external nut is engaged with the threads on the guide and the other set of threads on the external nut is engaged with the threads on the installer screw, and the external nut is turned with respect to the guide and the installer screw to cause relative axial movement between the external nut and the guide, the installer screw moves axially with respect to the guide at a different rate than the axial movement of the external nut and the guide. A method for installing a fuel injector nozzle sleeve may also be provided.
US08707554B2

In a build-up step, a plurality of resin insulation layers and a plurality of conductive layers are alternately laminated in multilayer arrangement on a metal foil separably laminated on a side of a base material, thereby forming a wiring laminate portion. In a drilling step, a plurality of openings are formed in an outermost resin insulation layer through laser drilling so as to expose connection terminals. Subsequently, in a desmear step, smears from inside the openings are removed. In a base-material removing step performed after the build-up step, the base material is removed and the metal foil is exposed.
US08707552B2

A high-dielectric sheet for a printed circuit board includes a first electrode, a first sputter film formed on the first electrode, an intermediate layer formed on the first sputter film by calcining a sol-gel film, a second sputter film formed on the intermediate layer, and a second electrode provided on the second sputter film.
US08707551B2

This invention is directed to bendable circuit substrate structures useful for LED mounting and interconnection.
US08707547B2

A lead-frameless power inductor and its fabrication method are disclosed. The power inductor comprises a lower substrate, a coil provided on the lower substrate, and an intermediate layer which encloses the coil, wherein the lower substrate can be a soft magnetic entrainer or a non-magnetic entrainer. The coil is made of an insulated wire, and the intermediate layer is a colloid consisting of magnetic powder. A method for fabricating the lead-frameless power inductor includes steps of preparing a lower substrate; forming a plurality of conducting metal layers on the lower substrate; forming a wire package on an upper surface of said lower substrate; coating a surface of said wire package with a magnetic powder; dividing the substrate into a plurality of granulated elements by cutting process; and forming the conducting metal layer on both sides of the element to form a surface mounting device.
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