US09128101B2

Biomarkers can be assessed for diagnostic, therapy-related or prognostic methods to identify phenotypes, such as a condition or disease, or the stage or progression of a disease. Circulating biomarkers from a bodily fluid can be used in profiling of physiological states or determining phenotypes. These include nucleic acids, protein, and circulating structures such as vesicles. Biomarkers can be used for theranostic purposes to select candidate treatment regimens for diseases, conditions, disease stages, and stages of a condition, and can also be used to determine treatment efficacy. The biomarkers can be circulating biomarkers, including vesicles and microRNA.
US09128097B2

The present invention provides simple, rapid methods and procedures for analyzing cells, hereunder quantitative and qualitative assessment of cells, such as viability. The present invention relates to the use of various optionally substituted reporter compounds particularly detectable upon their reaction with thiol-containing species present in higher concentrations in intact (e.g., living) cells than in non-intact (e.g., dead, stressed and apoptotic) cells. The present invention also relates to the use of various optionally substituted reporter compounds particularly detectable upon their reaction with species present in intact and/or non-intact cells. Moreover, the present invention relates to the use of measuring techniques and/or instruments coupled with the use of various optionally substituted reporter compounds. The invention further relates to compositions used in methods for analyzing cells, such as a composition comprising N-(7-dimethylamino-4-methyl-3-coumarinyl)-maleimide (DACM).
US09128096B2

Described herein are methods and compositions for determining whether a particular cancer is resistant to or susceptible to a histone deacetylase inhibitor or to histone deacetylase inhibitors. The methods include analysis of the expression levels of at least four biomarker genes associated with response to a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Also described herein are methods and compositions for increasing the likelihood of a therapeutically effective treatment in a patient, comprising an analysis of the expression levels of at least four biomarker genes associated with response to a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Also described herein are isolated populations of nucleic acids derived from a cancer sensitive to or resistant to a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Further described are kits and indications that are optionally used in conjunction with the aforementioned methods and compositions.
US09128095B2

The present invention relates to a biomarker for diagnosing lung cancer and colorectal cancer containing glutaredoxin 3 as an active ingredient, and a kit for diagnosing lung cancer and colorectal cancer using the same biomarker. Glutaredoxin 3 of the present invention is over-expressed in lung cancer tissue and colorectal cancer tissue, which enables early prediction of diagnosis or prognosis of lung cancer and colorectal cancer. Thus, glutaredoxin 3 can be helpfully used as a biomarker for diagnosing lung cancer and colorectal cancer.
US09128094B2

Methods for quantifying an HPV protein expression in a clinical sample are disclosed. The quantifying methods include the process for obtaining the clinical sample. Such a clinical sample is consisted of a population of cells that are susceptible to infection by an HPV. The quantifying methods also include the process for depositing the clinical sample into a container. The clinical sample is contacted with the first antibody that specifically binds to an HPV protein which is expressed by an HPV-infected cell under a condition that promotes specific binding of the first antibody to the HPV protein expressed by the population of cells. The methods further include the process for quantifying the specific binding of the first antibody and thereby quantifying the HPV protein expression in the clinical sample. The assay provides an objective test to identify patients with high-grade precursor from cytology samples before biopsy.
US09128090B2

The invention provides a genetic screening method for identifying a transfected cell expressing the polypeptide of interest. The methods allows for high throughput screening of recombinant cells for elevated levels of expression of the polypeptide of interest. The invention also provides capture media, formulations and methods of making and using thereof.
US09128089B1

Aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2 has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:7, and is encoded by the gene sequence of SEQ ID NO:8. The aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2 obtained via screening has the properties of tolerance to organic reagents, tolerance to high temperature, tolerance to acids and bases and the like, and good stability. The aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2 has 50% inhibiting concentration IC50 to aflatoxin M1 of 0.208 ng/mL, and has cross reaction rates with aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2 are 9.43%, 5.93%, 4.87% and 6.17%, respectively.
US09128085B2

This invention describes a rapid assay for measuring the ratio of glycated albumin to total albumin in blood. Patients with diabetes have elevated levels of glucose in their blood that can react with plasma albumin to form glycated albumin. The amount of glycated albumin formed is directly correlated with the level of plasma glucose that the albumin has been exposed to over a period of time. The ratio of glycated albumin to total albumin in blood will provide an indication of the average amount of protein glycation that occurred over the preceding 2-3 week period.The test is performed using a disposable strip or cassette that contains the testing reagents and the results are measured in a measuring instrument that automatically reads, calculates and displays the final result. The results of tests performed over a period of time are stored in the instrument's memory and presented in a numerical or graphical format so that the individual's glycated albumin level can be monitored over time.
US09128083B2

A nonspecific adsorption inhibitor of a substance relating to a living body, which inhibits nonspecific adsorption of a substance relating to a living body such as various species of proteins which are used in clinical diagnostic agents, clinical diagnosis devices, biochips and the like, and a method for coating an article using said nonspecific adsorption inhibitor.
US09128075B2

A method of changing the response level for any chemical test kits designed for the determination of a metal or compound (such as lead) in paint and other media is disclosed. The invention solves two common problems that exist with using chemical test kits for the detection of lead in paint or other coatings and media: (1) conversion of the paint sample into particles small enough to dissolve the metal in the sample; and, (2) controlling the amount of (paint) sample that gets exposed to the chemicals. This is accomplished by using a coffee grinder or equivalent tool plus a solid (food) product to break up the paint sample into small particles and at the same time dilute the concentration of the metal, while in solid form, down to a level that results in obtaining a positive response at the desired concentration.
US09128065B2

For angular resolved spectrometry a radiation beam is used having an illumination profile having four quadrants is used. The first and third quadrants are illuminated whereas the second and fourth quadrants aren't illuminated. The resulting pupil plane is thus also divided into four quadrants with only the zeroth order diffraction pattern appearing in the first and third quadrants and only the first order diffraction pattern appearing in the second and third quadrants.
US09128064B2

The disclosure is directed to a system and method for inspecting a sample by illuminating the sample at a plurality of different angles and independently processing the resulting image streams. Illumination is directed through a plurality of pupil apertures to a plurality of respective field apertures so that the sample is imaged by portions of illumination directed at different angles. The corresponding portions of light reflected, scattered, or radiated from the surface of the sample are independently processed. Information associated with the independently processed portions of illumination is utilized to determine a location of at least one defect of the sample. Independently processing multiple image streams associated with different illumination angles allows for retention of frequency content that would otherwise be lost by averaging information from multiple imaging angles.
US09128061B2

The invention relates to a measuring device for detecting the hydrocarbon fraction in gases. The measuring device is characterized in that the measuring device determines the hydrocarbon fraction in a first gas flow and a second gas flow, both the first gas flow and the second gas flow originating from the same gas source, the first gas flow being fed to the measuring device unchanged and the second gas flow being fed to the measuring device prepared.
US09128051B2

An optical imaging system for use with an infusion tube having a drip chamber and an output tube. The drip chamber includes a first portion with a drip tube, a second portion with an exit port, and a third portion between the first and second portions. The optical imaging system includes: an illumination system with at least one light source for emitting light, an optical system, and a memory element storing computer executable instructions. The optical system receives the light transmitted by the output tube or the second portion and transmits data characterizing the received light. The system includes at least one processor configured to execute the computer executable instructions to: detect, using the data, an air bubble in the output tube or the second portion; and determine a volume of the detected air bubble.
US09128049B2

A sensor system for determining an optical property of a plant by means of a reflection measurement, having a first light source, which emits light along a first beam axis, and a second light source, which emits light along a second beam axis, and at least one receiver, which is aligned along a third beam axis, to detect light reflected from the plant. The first light source, the second light source, and the receiver are arranged relative to one another so that a target cylinder, which respectively extends along the first beam axis and the second beam axis, and a first measuring cylinder, which extends along the third beam axis, at least partially overlap one another in a measuring space, and the first beam axis and the second beam axis respectively enclose an angle (α, δ) with the third beam axis. Related methods are also disclosed.
US09128040B2

A nanopore device including a nanopore formed by penetrating a thin layer, a nanochannel formed at an entrance of the nanopore, and a filler in the nanochannel, as well as a method of fabricating the nanopore device and an apparatus including the nanopore device.
US09128038B2

An analytical test strip for the determination of an analyte (such as glucose and/or hematocrit) in a bodily fluid sample (such as a whole blood sample) includes a first capillary sample-receiving chamber, a second capillary sample-receiving chamber, and a physical barrier island disposed between the first and second capillary sample-receiving chambers. Moreover, the physical island barrier is disposed such that bodily fluid sample flow between the first capillary sample-receiving chamber and the second capillary sample-receiving chamber is prevented during use of the analytical test strip.
US09128036B2

A multi-spectral imaging system includes a first light source that emits a first wavelength and a second light source that emits a second wavelength different than the first wavelength. The system further includes a camera having a lens, a beam splitter downstream of the lens and a pair of sensors downstream of the beam splitter. The lens is configured to focus the first and second wavelengths onto separate ones of the sensors, and the beam splitter allows one of the first wavelength or the second wavelength to pass through the beam splitter, and the other of the first wavelength or the second wavelength to be reflected off the beam splitter. One of the pair of sensors is configured to receive the first wavelength to produce a first image and the other of the sensors is configured to receive the second wavelength to produce a second image different from the first image.
US09128034B2

A rail scanning system and certified method of use thereof are described. The rail scanning system comprises a control unit, a probe carriage, and an encoder. The probe carriage comprises two or more phased array probes. The control unit is communicatively coupled with the encoder and phased array probes of the probe carriage.
US09128032B2

A photoacoustic imaging apparatus is provided for medical or other imaging applications and also a method for calibrating this apparatus. The apparatus employs a sparse array of transducer elements and a reconstruction algorithm. Spatial calibration maps of the sparse array are used to optimize the reconstruction algorithm. The apparatus includes a laser producing a pulsed laser beam to illuminate a subject for imaging and generate photoacoustic waves. The transducers are fixedly mounted on a holder so as to form the sparse array. A photoacoustic (PA) waves are received by each transducer. The resultant analog signals from each transducer are amplified, filtered, and converted to digital signals in parallel by a data acquisition system which is operatively connected to a computer. The computer receives the digital signals and processes the digital signals by the algorithm based on iterative forward projection and back-projection in order to provide the image.
US09128026B2

An amount of aggregation of particulate matter is estimated with a high degree of accuracy. A particulate matter processing apparatus in which a processing part with an electrode installed therein is arranged in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine, wherein particulate matter is caused to aggregate by generating a potential difference between the electrode and the processing part, is provided with a power supply that is connected to the electrode and applies a voltage thereto, a current detection device that detects an electric current which passes through the electrode, an estimation device that estimates an amount of aggregation of the particulate matter based on the electric current detected at the time when the voltage is applied to the electrode, an air fuel ratio detection device that detects or estimates an air fuel ratio of an exhaust gas which flows through the exhaust passage, and a prohibition device which prohibits an estimation by the estimation device in the case of a rich air fuel ratio.
US09128020B2

The present invention relates to devices and methods for measuring the permeability of dentin. More particularly, the invention relates to devices and methods of quickly and accurately measuring the permeability of dentin using a flow cell.
US09128016B2

A method of analyzing a sample fluid containing organic microobjects is proposed. The method comprises the steps of: up-concentrating (S1) the microobjects by removing, in a total time T1, a volume V1 of the sample fluid from the upconcentrate sample microobjects; immersing (S2) the microobjects in a transfer fluid, or leaving the microobjects in a remaining portion of the sample fluid, the remaining portion of the sample fluid then providing the transfer fluid; filtering (S3), in a total time T3, a volume V3 of the transfer fluid by a filter, thereby accumulating the microobjects on the filter; and generating (S4) an image of the microobjects accumulated on the filter; wherein the throughput V1/T1 of the step of up-concentrating (S1) is greater than the throughput V1/T1, of the step of filtering (S3). The filter may be a second filter, and the step of up-concentrating (S1) may involve: filtering the sample fluid by a first filter, thereby accumulating the microobjects on the first filter. An apparatus or system for analyzing a sample fluid containing organic microobjects is also disclosed.
US09128013B2

A sampler is provided for taking samples from melts having a melting point higher than 600° C., in particular for metal or cryolite melts. The sampler includes a carrier tube having an immersion end and having a sample chamber assembly arranged on the immersion end of the carrier tube. The assembly has an inlet opening and a sample cavity for the melt and is arranged at least partly inside the carrier tube. The sample chamber assembly has on a part of its outer surface a coupling device, arranged inside the carrier tube, for coupling a carrier lance. A method is also provided for taking samples using such a sampler.
US09128008B2

An actuator system includes a piston-cylinder arrangement including a piston that is movable with respect to a cylinder. A first flow path is in fluid communication with the piston-cylinder arrangement and a second flow path is in fluid communication with the piston-cylinder arrangement. A control system is operable to fluidly connect the first flow path to a source of high-pressure fluid and to connect the second flow path to a drain to move the piston in a first direction. A pressure sensor is fluidly connected to the first flow path and is operable to measure sufficient pressure data during the movement of the piston to generate a pressure versus time curve. The control system is operable to compare the generated pressure versus time curve to a known standard pressure versus time curve stored in the control system to determine the condition of the piston-cylinder arrangement.
US09128007B2

A sweep sensor may include a signal source, a propagation medium, and a detector. By transmitting an interrogating signal from the signal source into the propagation medium, detectable disturbances along the medium can physically alter the characteristics of the medium, which may cause a measurable change in the backscattered signal at the detector. Based on the change, it may be possible to locate the geographic origins of the physical disturbances along the propagation medium, or to determine the nature of the disturbances, or both. For example, it is generally possible to estimate the approximate distance between the detector and the disturbance given the time required to obtain the backscattered signal and the velocity of the signal source in the propagation medium. Further, in some embodiments, it is possible to quantify the amount of disturbance.
US09128005B2

A pressure probe includes an elongated cable provided with a sensing tip, a portion of the elongated cable and sensing tip enclosed within a ceramic shroud, the ceramic shroud at least partially formed of a metalized ceramic material.
US09128002B2

A leak detecting device for water filled vessel such as a swimming pool. An annular resilient seal having a central opening contacts the surface of the vessel under water and creates a seal between the resilient seal and the vessel. A rigid housing open in its interior is coupled to the resilient seal and has an opening for an inlet to deliver fluid into the interior of the housing, or couple a flow meter thereto to measure the fluid flow, or deliver a dye into the housing and through the central opening of the resilient seal.
US09128001B2

A testing apparatus includes a testing platform, a tray attached to the testing platform and substantially perpendicular to the testing platform, a pressing member substantially parallel to the testing platform and slidably attached to the tray, and a resilient member located between the tray and the pressing member. The pressing member is slidable relative to the tray between a first position and a second position. When the pressing member is located on the first position, a first distance is defined between the pressing member and the testing platform, for receiving an electronic device between the pressing member and the testing platform. When the pressing member is located on the second position, the resilient member is deformed, and a second distance, that is greater than the first distance is defined between the pressing member and the testing platform, for disengaging the electronic device from the testing platform.
US09127992B2

The disclosure includes a system and method for implementing a wide-area pressure sensor with reduced power consumption. The system includes a first layer printed with conductive ink in a first pattern that includes a first portion of an AND array and a first portion of an OR array, a second layer printed with conductive ink in a second pattern that includes a second portion of the AND array and a second portion of the OR array, and a separation barrier that goes between the first layer and the second layer. These AND and OR array switches can be combined together in one or more zones to create a wide-area pressure sensor with reduced pincount and power consumption, and can be used to determine the location of pressure points in a wide-area.
US09127980B2

A method and a structure are provided to increase a receiving angle of an optical sensor. The structure includes touchscreen glass, an optical sensor, and a main board. An ambient light hole is provided on the touchscreen glass. The optical sensor is disposed between the touchscreen glass and the main board. A light uniformizing film is disposed between the touchscreen glass and the optical sensor, is in contact with the touchscreen glass, and completely covers the ambient light hole. A handheld terminal includes the foregoing structure.
US09127977B2

The invention provides a detector assembly for use in a nucleonic level gauge comprising: a) at least one radiation detector; b) electronic apparatus for controlling the at least one detector and processing the electronic signals produced by the at least one detector; and c) a photomultiplier; wherein all of said components (a)-(c) are capable of being enclosed in an elongate, radiation-permeable housing having a cross-sectional area which is substantially uniform along the length of the housing. A detector apparatus may contain a plurality of such detector assemblies contained within a single housing. The detector is preferably an elongate plastic scintillator.
US09127976B2

Embodiments for detecting crankcase breach are provided. In one example, a method includes indicating both crankcase ventilation system degradation and a crankcase oil sump level based on a common crankcase sensor. In this way, the same sensor can provide both crankcase breach detection and oil level determination.
US09127973B2

A method for validating a pressure sensor between a source of a gas and a pressure regulator that regulates a gas flow. The method includes providing a valve command signal and selecting a bias signal from a bias table. The method also includes comparing the selected bias signal to the valve command signal and determining there is a pressure sensor error if the difference between the selected bias signal and the valve command signal is above a predetermined threshold.
US09127971B2

A non-destructive inspection (NDI) device is described that includes a robotic arm, a storage device proximate the robotic arm, and a plurality of NDI probe assemblies disposed within the storage device. Each NDI probe assembly includes at least one transducer operable for NDI of a part and a tool operable as a mechanical interface between the robotic arm and the corresponding NDI probe assembly. Each NDI probe assembly is configured for a specific NDI task, for NDI of a part, and the robotic arm is operable for selectively engaging the tools and movement of the probe assemblies for the NDI of at least a portion of a part.
US09127954B2

A navigation system includes a navigation apparatus, a data center, a communication-defective region acquisition device, a communication-defective region search device, and a target region specify device. The data center performs transmits an update data of a target region to the navigation apparatus. The communication-defective region acquisition device acquires information of a communication-defective region. The communication-defective region search device searches for a part of the communication-defective region as a target communication-defective region, which includes a route scheduled to go through. The target region specify device specifies the target region based on the target communication-defective region. The data center includes an update data transmission device that transmits the update data of the target region to the navigation apparatus before the navigation apparatus enters the target communication-defective region.
US09127945B2

Devices, systems, and methods for managing a cargo transaction are disclosed. By transmitting and integrating consignment data and real-time cargo status data including data collected from a GPS-enabled monitoring device to a visual cargo server, a visual cargo data is produced. The visual cargo data is contextualized by integrating with contextual data obtained from one or more contextual servers.
US09127942B1

In some embodiments, a distance between the at least one light sensor and the surface may be calculated using a ratio representative of the phase difference using time-of-flight of light. The distance may be within a distance range defined by a distance of light travel during a modulation period of the predetermined frequency. The distance may be based on the ratio defined by an amount of energy stored from captured light during a first time interval and a second time interval, and a comparison of an amount of light stored from captured light during at least a third time interval. The first, second, and third time intervals are different, but may overlap in some instances. In some embodiments, the amount of ambient light may be identified and subtracted from the inputs of the ratio. A switch may be used to prevent oversaturation of a storage element storing the stored energy.
US09127940B2

A depth guide system gives an operator of a watercraft carrier an alert that the carrier is at a proper water depth to launch or stow the watercraft. The system includes an activator device or sensor having a housing vertically adjustable along a length of a vertical member. The device activates and deactivates the alert based on water level within the housing. When water is absent from the housing, the device activates a first LED at the top of the vertical member. When water located within the housing is sufficient to electrically connect two contacts, the device deactivates the first LED and activates a second LED of a different color at the top of the vertical member and can also activate an audible alert. A proximity sensor can be included which warns of any obstructions around the perimeter of the watercraft carrier via a secondary audible alarm.
US09127921B2

A method of communicating with a detonator device using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to read data from the device, and to transmit information and commands to the device.
US09127920B2

A pyrotechnic slug, intended to be used by bomb squads to neutralize explosive devices, comprising a hollow cylinder, having an internal space, and having a projectile body made of non-metallic material, the projectile body having a closed front end and an open back end receiving a slug plug, the internal space containing a mixture cavity holding a pyrotechnic mixture, which upon ignition and explosion thereof is configured to create a weak pressure wave, and the pyrotechnic slug having an operating system comprising at least one selected from a list including: a) a mechanical impact firing system; and b) a delayed operating system; wherein the pyrotechnic slug is configured to be propelled from a barrel by one of: a) a separate cartridge; b) a unified slug comprising the projectile body inserted into a cartridge; and c) a rocket motor.
US09127916B2

A blanket protection system that is adaptable for use in a military vehicle. The blanket protection system includes a blanket comprising a carrier, a ballistic insert, stitch lines, and a plurality of buckles. The portion of the stitch lines extend between at least a portion of the plurality of buckles. In addition, the carrier comprises an interior. Moreover, the ballistic insert is disposed in the interior.
US09127913B2

Route search planner methods and systems are described. In an embodiment, a probability map can be generated from previous sensor scans combined with a projected target location of relocatable targets in a target area. A route can be generated by a route generator, based at least in part on the probability map, and based on optimal system performance capabilities utilized to search for at least one of the relocatable targets. A search manager can then assign an evaluation criteria value to the route based on route evaluation criteria, and compare the evaluation criteria value to other evaluation criteria values corresponding to respective previously generated routes to determine an optimal route. The search manager can then determine whether to generate one or more additional routes and assign additional evaluation criteria values for comparison to determine the optimal route.
US09127904B2

An adaptor allows accessories to be mounted to the bayonet lug rather than a Picatinny rail mounted to the hand guard of a rifle. The adaptor of the present invention allows accessories to be used while not interfering with the proper grip on the hand guard and without the need to replace the hand guard with one that has an integrated Picatinny rail.
US09127903B2

A handgun curved to correspond more closely with the contours of a person's body, achieving a comfortable fit when the handgun is worn for any appreciable amount of time on the person's body. The handgun housing is inclusive of a top portion, an intermediate portion, and a grip portion, which may be separately connected or integrally formed parts sharing a radius of curvature to form asymmetric left and right sides, particularly a concave side and a convex side. This asymmetry extends beyond the grip portion and includes at least a portion of the trigger guard and a portion of the magazine securing clip.
US09127895B2

The invention relates to a heat exchanger, especially for cooling exhaust gases. Said heat exchanger comprises at least one first flow channel for a first medium, at least one second flow channel for a second medium, at least one bottom that can be connected to the housing, said bottom having at least one expansion element.
US09127887B2

The present invention relates to a device and a method for transversely moving tubular material inside a furnace, in which the tubes are able to roll in order to have a path per cycle that is 2.5 times as great as that obtained in the case of moving bars, and in which the tubes are pushed by a series of toothed bars that have an upward and downward movement plus a horizontal movement in vacuum. The device and a method for moving tubular material inside an furnace allows a greater rotation of the tubes over short cycle times, solves the problems of twisting of smaller-diameter tubes (tubing) in quench furnaces and meets the need to rotate the tubes when there is no forward movement, which may be necessary when cycle times are long or when unloading from the furnace is interrupted.
US09127882B2

The invention provides a method for the drying of a wet substrate, the method comprising treating the substrate with a solid particulate material at ambient or elevated temperature, the treatment being carried out in an apparatus comprising a drum comprising perforated side walls, wherein the drum comprising perforated side walls is rotated so as to facilitate increased mechanical action between the substrate and the particulate material. Preferably, the drum comprising perforated side walls has a capacity of between 5 and 50 liters for each kg of fabric in the load and is rotated at a speed which generates G forces in the range of from 0.05 to 0.99 G, and the method is carried out at a temperature of between 5° and 120° C. Preferably, the solid particulate material comprises a multiplicity of particles at a particle to fabric addition level of 0.1:1-10:1 by mass, wherein the particles comprise polymeric particles, non-polymeric particles, or mixtures of polymeric and non-polymeric particles. All particles may be solid or hollow in their structure, have smooth or irregular surface features, and are of such a shape and size as to allow for good flowability and intimate contact with the wet substrate. The invention provides optimum drying performance as a result of improved mechanical interaction between substrate and particulate media and is preferably used for the drying of textile fabrics. The method allows for significant reduction in the consumption of energy when compared with the conventional tumble drying of textile fabrics, and also facilitates reduced textile fabric damage.
US09127880B2

The present disclosure relates to pressure control in a vegetable room of a refrigerator, and particularly, to a vegetable room of a refrigerator in which pressure is controlled according to vegetable, fruit, and mixture modes. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a vegetable room of a refrigerator in which different pressures are applied according to vegetable, fruit, and mixture modes such that each pressure corresponds to storage conditions of storage items such as vegetable and fruit stored in an airtight state therein, whereby each storage item is maintained with optimal freshness. The vegetable room for keeping vegetables in storage in a refrigerator, includes: a storage chamber configured to keep food items in storage therein; a controller configured to adjust pressure within the storage chamber; and a vacuum pump configured to draw in air within the airtight storage chamber, wherein the controller may selectively adjust pressure according to a storage item kept in storage within the storage chamber, whereby the vegetable room of the refrigerator may have a plurality of operation modes.
US09127877B2

A refrigerator having a cantilever shelf which includes a pair of side frames, a fixed shelf including a rear frame that connects the pair of side frames and is coupled to a shelf coupling unit, a slide shelf provided so as to be slidably movable in forward and rearward directions between the pair of side frames, and a folding shelf rotatably provided between the pair of side frames at a rear side of the slide shelf.
US09127868B2

A heat exchanger having a plurality of heat-transfer tubes arrayed at intervals in vertical and anteroposterior directions and arranged so that an equilateral triangle is formed by lines connecting the centers of heat-transfer tubes located vertically and anteroposteriorly adjacent to each other; and a plurality of heat-transfer corrugated fins arranged at intervals in an axial direction of the heat-transfer tubes, characterized in that when an external diameter of each of the heat-transfer tubes is V1; a vertical pitch of the heat-transfer tubes is V2, a fin pitch of the heat-transfer corrugated fins is V3, a fin plate thickness of each of the heat-transfer corrugated fins is V4, and a corrugate height of the heat-transfer corrugated fins is V5, any one of V2, V3 and V5 is set within a given range.
US09127865B2

An air conditioning system includes a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger that discharges evaporated refrigerant, and a first pipe coupling the outdoor heat exchanger and the compressor, where the first pipe allows the outdoor heat exchanger to receive at least a portion of the compressed refrigerant from the compressor.
US09127856B2

An air intake of an air handling or HVAC system, such as located in a ceiling of a structure, includes a movable filter housing. The filter housing comprises a grate configured to support one or more air filters at a top side thereof. The filter housing is mounted via one or more extendable connectors and includes a control tool mount. Connection of a control tool to the filter housing allows a user to pull the filter housing downwardly to a lowered position for replacing the air filter(s). The filter housing may be biased upwardly to its use position and may include a latch or lock to secure it in the use position.
US09127854B2

A damper having a housing includes a rotatable damper vane therein constructed to minimize the passage of air between the vane and the housing when the vane is in a closed position. The housing includes a pair of opposed walls having a channel or flute therein adjacent outer edges of the vane when the vane is in the closed position. The outer edges of the vane terminate in domed or arcuate shaped surfaces that generally correspond with the channel. The arcuate shaped surfaces are a distance apart that is greater than a distance between the opposed walls such that the arcuate shaped surfaces are received in the channels when the vane is in the closed position. The housing also includes a pair of opposed sidewalls having a ridge therein at a location that aligns with an edge of the vane when the vane is in the closed position.
US09127851B2

A heating and cooling system including a heat pump and a heat storage tank. Stored heat or cold is released from the heat storage tank for heating or cooling a house for a whole day. The heating and cooling system has five working modes: compressor heating or cooling, compressor charging, compressor discharging for heating or cooling, water pump charging and water pump discharging for heating or cooling.
US09127847B2

A multi-burner high-pressure portable stove having independently regulated burners is provided. The stove is especially suitable for camping. The stove provides similar functionality as a typical kitchen range by allowing a user to efficiently control the amount of fuel utilized by each individual burner of the stove. The stove further allows the user to independently control varying flame amounts of each burner so as a user may select between, simmer, medium, high or anything in-between for each burner. The regulators have a dual-lead stem thread knob which allows for quick and easy adjustments. The regulators are safely secured within a housing of the stove. In an embodiment, the regulators may be located outside the housing of the stove.
US09127846B2

A coupling assembly includes a keyed coupling configured to couple to a valve stem and a plate configured to couple to a knob. The keyed coupling includes a projection having a cross-sectional shape. The plate includes a keyed slot defined therethrough. The keyed slot is shaped to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the projection to receive at least a portion of the projection when the plate is coupled to the valve stem.
US09127844B2

A fuel nozzle is provided and includes a nozzle body defining first and second interior regions for providing a supply of first and second fluids, a collar defining a third interior region and radial slots permitting radial ingress of a third fluid to the third interior region and a nozzle tip interposed between the nozzle body and the collar. The nozzle tip defines an annular slot, first discrete passageways by which the first fluid is communicated from the first interior region to the annular slot, second discrete passageways by which the first fluid is communicated from the annular slot to the radial slots, and third discrete passageways by which the second fluid is communicated from the second interior region to the radial slots.
US09127843B2

A combustor comprises an annular combustor chamber formed between the inner and outer liners. Fuel nozzles each have an end in fluid communication with the annular combustor chamber to inject fuel in the annular combustor chamber, the fuel nozzles oriented to inject fuel in a fuel flow direction having an axial component relative to the central axis of the annular combustor chamber. A plurality of nozzle air holes are defined through the inner liner and the outer liner adjacent to and downstream of the fuel nozzles. The nozzle air holes are configured for high pressure air to be injected from an exterior of the liners through the nozzle air holes generally radially into the annular combustor chamber. A central axis of the nozzle air holes has a tangential component relative to the central axis of the annular combustor chamber.
US09127840B2

Fire starters are disclosed. Methods of using the fire starter are disclosed. Methods of producing fire starters are also disclosed.
US09127836B2

A combustion burner 1 includes a fuel nozzle 2 that injects fuel gas prepared by mixing solid fuel and primary air, secondary air nozzles 3, 4 that inject secondary air from the outer periphery of the fuel nozzle 2, and a flame holder 5 that is arranged in an opening of the fuel nozzle 2. In the combustion burner 1, the flame holder 5 has a splitting shape that widens in the flow direction of the fuel gas. When seen in cross section along a direction in which the flame holder 5 widens, the cross section passing through the central axis of the fuel nozzle 2, a maximum distance h from the central axis of the fuel nozzle 2 to the widened end of the flame holder 5 and an inside diameter r of the opening 21 of the fuel nozzle 2 satisfy h/(r/2)<0.6.
US09127835B2

A boiler steam amount measuring method for continuously measuring a temporal change in an amount of steam from a steam boiler, includes: first measuring a differential pressure between a pressure at a first detection position that is a predetermined position in a can body of the steam boiler or a steam outflow path, and a pressure at a second detection position in the steam outflow path separated from the first detection position toward a downstream side; first calculating a pressure loss coefficient based on the differential pressure measured by flowing a predetermined flow rate of steam or fluid instead of steam into the steam outflow path, and the predetermined flow rate; and second calculating continuously the amount of steam based on the differential pressure measured in the first measuring and the pressure loss coefficient calculated in the first calculating, and outputting the calculated amount of steam as a measurement value.
US09127834B2

A cyclone separator for phase separation of a fluid stream has a rotationally symmetrical housing with a hollow chamber. Feed lines feed the fluid stream into the housing substantially tangentially. At least one discharge line conducts the separated gaseous fraction. In order to ensure uniform and homogeneous flow distribution of the steam to be heated as it enters the heating phase, the hollow chamber, when viewed in the radial direction from the mid-axis, has an outflow chamber with a circular cross section and, in radial sequence, a heating chamber, an intermediate chamber, a dryer chamber and an inflow chamber. The inflow chamber is outwardly delimited by the housing. The heating chamber contains heating elements for heating the gaseous fraction. At least one fine separator and at least one associated condensate-collecting trough are arranged in the dryer chamber. The condensate-collecting trough is connected to a condensate discharge pipe in the intermediate chamber for conducting the condensate forming in the fine separator out of the hollow chamber.
US09127815B2

This lighting apparatus includes three or more LEDs arranged in a row. Each of the LEDs emits light of a color different from that of an LED adjacent to itself, and the LEDs include an LED having a relatively wide light distribution angle and others of the three or more LEDs each having a relatively narrow light distribution angle. The one LED is arranged in an inner portion in the row of the other LEDs. In this configuration, light emitted from the one LED is mixed well with lights emitted from the respective other LEDs adjacent to the one LED, and thus, color unevenness of illuminating light can be reduced.
US09127813B2

Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for responding to moisture at one or more zones around an outer surface of a liquid-carrying pipe are provided. Embodiments include monitoring, by a moisture correction controller, a plurality of moisture sensors, each moisture sensor configured to detect moisture at a separate zone around the outer surface of the liquid-carrying pipe; based on the monitoring of the plurality of moisture sensors, calculating and tracking, for each zone, a level of moisture detected by a moisture sensor; based on the tracked levels of moisture detected at the zones, selecting, between condensation or a leak from within the liquid-carrying pipe as a source of the moisture detected at the zones around the liquid-carrying pipe; and administering a corrective action based on the selection of the source of the moisture detected at the zones around the liquid-carrying pipe.
US09127811B2

A hydraulic accumulator comprises a pressure shell, a bladder, and a rod. The pressure shell is filament wound around a leak proof barrier/mold. The bladder is tubular and carried by the rod. The rod extends though the pressure shell and seals to the ends of the shell. The shell has generally frustoconical sections connecting the ends of the shell to mid section. The bladder is tubular and expandable. A first chamber having an annular cross section for gas is formed between the rod and the bladder. A second chamber having an annular cross section for liquid is formed between the bladder and the shell. A first flow passage is formed through an end seal means communicating with the first chamber. A second flow passage is formed though an end seal means communicating with the second chamber.
US09127808B2

A minimal lubrication device including a storage reservoir for a lubricant fluid and a pump for the lubricant, the pump being of high pressure type with its delivery port connected to at least one modular element adapted to mix a compressed air flow with the lubricant. The modular element presenting a mixer element fed with a compressed air flow into which an outlet of a flow regulator fed by the lubricant originating from the pump opens.
US09127796B2

A gasket type orifice includes a first orifice base having a through-type passage in a central area thereof, a second orifice base having in a central area thereof a through-type passage communicating with the passage of the first orifice base, and an orifice plate having an orifice hole formed in a central area thereof, wherein the orifice plate is mounted by insertion in an airtight manner between both orifice bases, and the gasket type orifice is installed in a fluid passage, in which the outer end faces of both orifice bases respectively serve as sealing faces, and an outer diameter of the second orifice base, located on the downstream side, is larger than an outer diameter of the first orifice base located on the upstream side, and an outer peripheral edge portion of an inner end face of the second orifice base serves as another sealing face.
US09127768B2

A gasket for arrangement between a cylinder block and cylinder head of an internal combustion engine. The gasket includes a lubricant hole through which lubricant is supplied to the cylinder head. A high pressure bead extends around the lubricant hole. A low pressure bead is extends around the high pressure bead and at least partially extends around a hollow portion, which is in communication with a lubricant reservoir of the engine, when the gasket is arranged between the cylinder block and the cylinder head.
US09127765B2

A control device of a vehicle drive device includes a mechanical oil pump, a hydraulic power transmission device transmitting power of the engine and the electric motor to drive wheels via an interposed engagement device when it is engaged. While the electric motor drives the mechanical oil pump while an operation of the engine is stopped, the control device executing neutral control of putting the engagement device into a slip state or released state to suppress power transmission between the hydraulic power transmission device and the drive wheels, the hydraulic power transmission device including a lockup clutch mechanically coupling input and output members of the hydraulic power transmission device when engaged, the lockup clutch being engaged during executing of the neutral control. Also, after it is determined that the engine is likely to be restarted after a stop of operation while the vehicle remains stopped, the lockup clutch being released.
US09127763B2

A motor housing with integrated gears includes a motor having a first shaft, the motor configured to actuate the first shaft, a dowel, the dowel rotatably coupled to the first shaft, an encoder configured to surround the dowel, the encoder being configured to measure an angular velocity of the first shaft, a gear system in meshed communication with the first shaft, and a second shaft in meshed communication with the gear system such that the motor is operable to transmit power to the second shaft. The housing further includes at least one seal, the seal located on the dowel between the first end and the second end of the dowel and creating a barrier such that the dowel is rotatable within the seal while preventing migration of lubricant on the at least one gear into the encoder.
US09127761B2

A guide plate for a shift lever device, which is formed in correspondence with a movement range of a momentary type shift lever that automatically returns to a home position after being operated, is provided with an elastic member that includes an operation hole. The elastic member restricts the movement range of the shift lever and guides movement of the shift lever. An impact absorption mechanism is formed in the elastic member and absorbs impact of the shift lever when the shift lever automatically returns to the home position. The impact absorption mechanism includes a slit arranged proximal to the operation hole. A seat that is capable of absorbing impact of the shift lever is arranged closer to the operation hole than the slit. A stopper arranged at a back side of the seat relative to the slit supports inwardly curved deformation of the seat.
US09127754B2

A clutch mechanism comprises a planetary gear unit including input transmission, output transmission, and transmission stopping members. Torque entering the input transmission member is outputted downstream of the planetary gear unit by the output transmission member when the transmission stopping member is fixed and is not outputted downstream when the transmission stopping member is unfixed and entering a rotatable state. A rotation prohibiting target has an engaging target and is integral with the transmission stopping member. A rotation prohibiting member has a supporting shaft, a swingable portion at its one end and an engaging portion at its other end to engage the engaging target to enable the transmission stopping member to exert the stopping function. The engaging portion disengages the engaging target to bring the transmission stopping member into an unfixed state. A damper unit absorbs vibration caused in the rotation prohibiting member during a switching operation.
US09127730B2

A clutch module which includes a first rotating member including at least one strut actuation module and a second engaged member including cam surfaces thereon for engagement by said strut actuation module. The strut actuation module includes a frame with a strut pivotally movable with respect to the frame. The strut includes an engagement end and a base end including a first side and a second side thereof. A pin or post portion extends from the frame and has an insulated bobbin with an energizable coil surrounding the bobbin. A U-shaped member including a pair of actuation legs is attached to the pin member and forms a magnetic gap between the base end of the strut and peripheral ends of the legs, such that when the coil is energized the peripheral ends of the legs are polarized in a first polarity and the frame and the strut are polarized with an opposite polarity thereby biasing the strut toward the peripheral ends and pivoting the actuation end into engagement with a cam surface of the engagement member.
US09127726B2

The rotary damper includes a brake drum (10) whose either end is integrally connected to the first member (100); a cylindrical case (20) covering the brake drum (10) in a state that the cylindrical case relatively rotates with respect to the brake drum, and being connected to the second member (200) in a state that the cylindrical case rotates in conjugation with the second member; a brake spring (30) being externally fitted to the brake drum (10) with the coil spring tightened, and being configured by a coil spring whose one end is fixed to one end of the cylindrical case (20) and other end is fixed to other end of the cylindrical case. The brake drum (10) is provided with a releasing concave portion (10c) on an outer periphery thereof and fixing portions for winding the brake spring rotating independently from the brake drum.
US09127705B2

An anchoring assembly and method adapted to secure a screw fastener at a pre-drilled hole in a concrete, brick or masonry building material with an elongated engagement cavity between the screw and the pre-drilled hole radially offset to one side of and extending axially along the depth of the hole, an elongated anchor strip axially adjacent the screw including an elongated malleable and non-resilient anchor member adapted to frictionally engage both the helical threads and the building material and to frictionally engage the threads to the building material radially opposite to the engagement cavity, the malleable anchor member having at least one transverse dimension which is substantially greater than the transverse radial dimension of the axial engagement cavity.
US09127694B2

Embodiments of the invention provide a high-reliability, cost-effective electro-hydraulic servo-valve assembly that is not susceptible to failure caused by contaminated fluid. In particular embodiments, the electro-hydraulic servo-valve assembly includes a rotary valve that may be actuated by either a direct-coupled Limited Angle Torque (LAT) motor, a geared, brushless DC motor, or some other rotary electric actuating element with an integrated driver circuit. In particular embodiments, the rotary valve element made up of an outer sleeve element and an inner spool element, with matching ports and slots, respectively.
US09127693B2

To include a cooling passage leading from a latter stage of a compressor, via an external cooler, to a hollow part provided in a load coupling that couples a rotor of the compressor and a rotor of a turbine to each other, and also leading from the hollow part to the latter stage of the compressor, and a centrifugal compressor that raises air pressure in the hollow part with rotation of the load coupling, in the hollow part. Therefore, pressure of the air in the hollow part is raised by the centrifugal compressor by using a centrifugal force resulting from the rotation of the load coupling at the time of operating the gas turbine. Cooled air flows from the hollow part to between compressor rotor blades and compressor vanes at the latter stage, and then flows into the hollow part, thereby enabling to efficiently reduce temperature in the hollow part.
US09127684B2

Methods and devices for performing a model based anti-surge dead time compensation in systems including a compressor and an anti-surge loop are provided. A new position of an anti-surge valve on the anti-surge loop is determined by correcting for dead time a value of the anti-surge parameter calculated from field measurements, based on a predicted anti-surge parameter estimated using a deterministic model which has as variables the field measurements and a current position of the anti-surge valve.
US09127680B2

The magnetic balance is verified of a magnetically-levitated impeller of a centrifugal pump with a pump housing having levitation magnets. The impeller includes embedded magnets and is movable within a chamber in the pump housing between first and second sides of the chamber. The centrifugal pump is mounted on an acceleration fixture while the impeller is held against a predetermined one of the first and second sides by the levitation magnets. A plurality of predetermined accelerations are applied to the acceleration fixture to exert a plurality of different forces of acceleration on the impeller. A determination is made whether the impeller detaches from the predetermined side as a result of each different force of acceleration to identify adjacent forces for which a transition occurs between detaching and not detaching. The transition is compared with a desired retention force to determine whether the pump achieves magnetic balance.
US09127674B2

A vane pump for an automatic transmission includes a housing which may be spaced from the axis of the transmission input shaft axis and driven by a chain or gear train driven by the torque converter hub or disposed on and about the axis of the transmission input shaft and driven at engine speed. The vane pump includes a pair of port plates which reside on the end faces of a pump body having a cylindrical chamber which receives an eccentrically disposed rotor that is coupled to a stub shaft in an off-axis arrangement. The rotor includes a plurality of radial slots which receive a like plurality of vanes. The outer ends or edges of the vanes are in contact with the wall of the cylindrical chamber and the inner ends or edges are in contact with a pair of vane rings received within recesses in the ends of the rotor. The vanes are thus constrained between the wall of the chamber and the vane rings which positively determine their radial positions as they and the rotor rotate. Suitable inlet (suction) and outlet (pressure) ports in the port plates supply and collect hydraulic fluid to and from the cylindrical chamber. A compression spring biases the port plates and body together. The vane pump according to the present invention is self-priming and achieves high pumping efficiency.
US09127673B2

The invention relates to a rotary lobe pump (100) for conveying a fluid medium containing solids, comprising an inlet opening (111) and an outlet opening (112) for the medium being conveyed, two rotary lobes (121, 122) arranged in a pump casing (140) and having rotary lobe vanes engaging with other, wherein each of the two rotary lobes is fixed torque-resistantly on a respective shaft (131) and can be driven by said respective shaft, and wherein the two shafts are coupled to each other by a transmission gear arranged in a gearbox casing (152). The invention relates in particular to a rotary lobe pump in which the inlet opening and the outlet opening are arranged on a connection casing (151).
US09127670B2

A geared hydraulic machine destined to function as a pump or a motor, comprising at least a module (1) comprising a body (10) in which two chambers are afforded, which two chambers intersect, and each of which contains a gear (12, 13) which enmeshes with a gear (12, 13) contained in the other chamber, the body (10) having at least an open end that is closed by a cover (20) comprising at least a seating (21, 22) for a support bearing (210, 220) of at least a gear (12, 13) of the gears; the coupling between the body (10) and the cover (20) comprises at least two abutments (23, 24) which are fashioned in one of the body (10) and the cover (20), each of which abutments (23, 24) is housed in a respective sunken seating (16, 17) which is afforded in the other of the body (10) and the cover (20).
US09127669B2

A scroll compressor includes a pressing mechanism, a pushback mechanism and an adjustment mechanism. The pressing mechanism applies a pressing force toward a fixed scroll to the back side of an end plate portion of an orbiting scroll. The pushback mechanism applies a pushback force separating the orbiting scroll from a fixed scroll to the front of the orbiting scroll. The adjusting mechanism has a low-pressure portion filled with a fluid of a lower pressure than the discharge pressure of the compression mechanism, and a communicating groove formed in a sliding surface of an outer peripheral portion of the fixed scroll so as to communicate with the low-pressure portion in a first rotational angle range in order to reduce an upsetting moment of the orbiting scroll, and to be blocked from the low-pressure portion in a second rotational angle range other than the first rotational angle range.
US09127663B2

An apparatus for heating a fluid such as engine oil includes an auxiliary pump, a conduit connected to the auxiliary pump and provides fluid communication from the auxiliary pump and an aperture in the conduit. In use the auxiliary pump contains the fluid. A first portion of the fluid is pumped into the conduit by the auxiliary pump and a second portion of the fluid remains in the auxiliary pump. The aperture restricts the flow of the first portion of the fluid in the conduit. The second portion of the fluid is heated due to friction between the second portion of the fluid and the pump. There is also described a method of heating a fluid.
US09127653B2

A solar thermal installation and method for operating a solar thermal installation includes a solar collector arrangement which defines a solar collector fluid passage so that a first heat quantity can be supplied to a fluid, and which has a first fluid infeed connection and a first fluid output connection. A heat exchanger fluid passage permits a second heat quantity to be supplied to a fluid. A heating fluid receiving device is fluidically connected with a first fluid output connection and fluidically connects a second fluid output connection to the first fluid output connection by bypassing the solar collector fluid passage. A consumer device is connected to the heating fluid receiving device. At least a portion of the first heat quantity and second heat quantity can be supplied to the consumer device. A control device controls an operation of the gas turbine depending on the first heat quantity.
US09127641B2

A sea electricity energy production device has a submerged water gate for controlling a flow of sea water into the device, one or more paddle wheels that receive water flow through the water gate to drive main gears in rotary motion, a series of pressure tanks having pistons driven by the main gears driven by the paddle wheels to pressurize water flow from the pressure tanks, and a Francis reaction turbine built on land that receives the pressurized water flow from the pressure tanks to drive the turbine and generate electricity.
US09127637B2

A combustion mode transition control for controlling a transition between a homogeneous-charge compression-ignition (HCCI) combustion mode and a spark-ignition (SI) combustion mode includes slowly transitioning intake and exhaust camshafts from initial phase settings corresponding to one of the HCCI and SI combustion modes to target phase settings corresponding to the other of the HCCI and SI combustion modes. An ignition spark timing and an injected fuel mass are coordinated with the transitioning of the intake and exhaust camshaft phase settings to substantially maintain engine load continuity during the transitioning of the intake and exhaust camshaft phase settings.
US09127634B2

A method for determining the opening point in time of a control valve having a coil drive of an indirectly driven fuel injector for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle may include: detecting the time curve of the current intensity of a current flowing through the coil drive, determining a current integral with respect to the detected current intensity as a function of the time and starting from a defined initial time, and determining a time at which the current integral reaches at least a predefined current integral reference value, wherein the determined time is the opening point in time of the control valve. A corresponding device and a computer program for determining the opening point in time of a control valve of an indirectly driven fuel injector are also disclosed.
US09127633B2

An actuator arrangement for an electromagnetically operated fuel injector includes a generally cylindrical actuator core having a longitudinal axis and defining an inner pole face of the actuator arrangement. The actuator core is formed of a bespoke magnetic material. A wire coil is disposed around the actuator core arranged to be connected to a power source to generate a magnetic field around the coil. A pole member is formed of a high strength material and defines an aperture for receiving the actuator core. The pole member defines an outer pole face of the actuator arrangement substantially co-planar with the inner pole face. An armature is movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis in response to the magnetic field. The magnetic field passes into the armature in the region of the inner pole face and into the armature in the region of the outer pole face.
US09127619B2

A piston for an internal combustion engine comprises a sealed cooling gallery extending circumferentially around a center axis beneath a bowl rim of an upper crown. A metal-containing composition having a high thermal conductivity fills a portion of the sealed cooling gallery to dissipate heat. The metal-containing composition includes a base material having a melting temperature less than 181° C. and a plurality of metal particles having a thermal conductivity greater than the thermal conductivity of the base material. For example, the metal-containing composition can comprise copper particles dispersed in silicone oil, or copper particles dispersed in a mixture of alkali metals. During high temperature operation, as the piston reciprocates in the cylinder bore, the base material is liquid and flows throughout the cooling gallery to dissipate heat away from the upper and lower crowns.
US09127612B2

A characteristics-detecting-portion analyzes a fuel injection condition based on a fuel pressure waveform which represents a variation in a detection value of the fuel pressure sensor and then detects the fuel-injection-characteristic value based on the analyzed fuel injection condition. The detected parameter is learned and stored in a memory in association with a fuel temperature detected by a fuel temperature sensor. A fuel-injection-rate model is established based on the learned detected parameters. A command-fuel-injection start time and a command-fuel-injection period are defined by use of the fuel-injection-rate model and the current fuel temperature.
US09127611B2

During monitoring of an electromotively driven fuel pump of a fuel feed unit for a motor vehicle, a pump current is monitored as a function of a pump voltage or of a pump rotational speed. Through a comparison of the pump current with the pump voltage or the pump rotational speed, it is detected whether leakage or dry running of the fuel pump is present. The fuel feed unit does not require any pressure sensor for this purpose, and is therefore of particularly simple construction.
US09127602B2

A control device is applied to an engine having a supercharger and a control value. The supercharger contains an opening-area control member that changes an opening-area of an approach zone to a turbine of the supercharger so as to change an amount of energy of the exhaust gas entering into the supercharger. The control valve changes a valve-opening degree so as to change an amount of energy of the exhaust gas entering into the supercharger. At a certain instruction time point, the control device gives an instruction to the control valve so as to change the valve-opening degree by a target difference. At this time point, the control device gives an instruction to the opening-area control member, based on the target difference and a parameter relating to a response-time length of the control valve, so as to change the opening-area of the approach zone.
US09127593B2

A preassembled modular drop-in combustor having internal components in conformity with assembly and function specifications prior to and after insertion into an industrial gas turbine access port and internal combustor transition. The combustor assembly maintains conformity with those specifications after insertion into the combustor case if it does not inadvertently impact other turbine components during its installation. Inadvertent impact is avoided by having a combustor service zone proximal the combustor case, enabling slidable insertion of each combustor assembly into its corresponding access port and transition along its corresponding insertion path without contacting other turbine system components. A multi-axis motion combustor handling tool in the combustor service zone, preferably under automatic control, is coupled to each combustor and facilitates precise alignment along the insertion path. Automatic control facilitates consistent repetitive combustor installation and removal by executing a sequence of stored pre-determined manipulation steps.
US09127586B2

An apparatus for estimating a temperature of an exhaust gas which is exhausted from an internal combustion engine to an exhaust manifold. The apparatus estimates the temperature of the exhaust gas in the exhaust manifold, based on a temperature increment caused by an adiabatic compression until a gas introduced in an intake manifold is exhausted to the exhaust manifold, and a temperature increment obtained by dividing the amount of heat lost in the exhaust gas among the amount of heat introduced into cylinders by the diluted gas flow of the exhaust gas in the exhaust manifold.
US09127581B2

A filter assembly includes: a cylindrical diesel particulate filter disposed on a flow passage through which an exhaust gas from an engine is discharged, the filter having gas flow passages formed and disposed therein by dividing an inner space into a lattice form; and an electrode unit disposed at at least one of both side surfaces of the filter, the electrode unit receiving electric power to heat the filter. A plurality of regions resulting from division into a lattice form in the filter have alternately disposed open and closed sections. A device for reducing an exhaust gas including the above filter assembly is also provided.
US09127578B2

Systems and methods for monitoring crankcase ventilation system integrity are disclosed. In one example approach, a method comprises indicating a crankcase ventilation system degradation based on a lower vacuum than expected downstream of a PCV breather tube. For example, indicating a crankcase ventilation system degradation based on a lower vacuum than expected downstream of a PCV breather tube may include indicating a crankcase ventilation system degradation based on an absolute pressure sensor measurement relative to a gauge pressure sensor measurement.
US09127574B2

The method for operating a power plant including a gas turbine and a steam power generation system that activate, or drive, at least one electric generator, wherein the gas turbine produces flue gases that are supplied into a boiler of the steam power generation system. In a steady operation, the gas turbine generates a first output power greater than zero, the steam turbine generates a second output power greater than zero, and a total generated power is a sum of the first and second output powers and is substantially equal to a house load of the power plant.
US09127573B2

An arrangement and a method for converting thermal energy to mechanical energy includes a circulation unit (4) a refrigerant in the a circuit (3), an evaporator (6) for the refrigerant, a turbine (9) driven by vaporised refrigerant, a condenser (12) cooling the refrigerant to condense, and an accumulator tank (14) for storage of the refrigerant is not being circulated in the line circuit (3). A control device estimates the degree of filling of the line circuit (3) with refrigerant at which the turbine (9) achieves a substantially optimum effect, and controls the flow of refrigerant between the line circuit (3) and the accumulator tank (14) to achieve the estimated degree of filling the line circuit (3) with refrigerant.
US09127569B2

There is provided a shroud structure for gas turbines capable of suppressing a drop in the amount of cooling air for cooling the inner shroud by reducing the amount of cooling air leakage that occurs along the cooling air path when feeding cooling air from the one-piece outer shroud to the inner shroud of the gas turbine and ensure more reliable cooling of the inner shroud. The gas turbine shroud structure contains a one-piece outer shroud, and an inner shroud retained on the inner circumferential side of the outer shroud in a structure divided into multiple inner shrouds along the periphery. An inner seal plate groove is formed on the outer circumference of the hook formed on the inner shroud, a seal plate is inserted in the inner seal plate groove, and the seal plate is mounted so that a section of the seal plate protrudes in the gap between the hook mechanism of the outer shroud and the inner shroud.
US09127568B2

A turbine casing includes a plurality of arc-shaped segments having a flange at each side end to connect to a flange of an adjacent arc-shaped segment. The flange extends outward from an outer surface of each arc-shaped segment and extends along the outer surface in a front-to-rear direction. Each arc-shaped segment has a portion of the outer surface that is co-linear with the flange in a front-to-rear direction that does not include the flange.
US09127567B2

An exemplary fluid supply system for use on a turbomachine includes a turbomachine fluid container having a moveable barrier. A pressurized fluid is delivered to one side of the moveable barrier, and an opposing side of the flexible barrier communicates with a source of lubricant. Pressurized fluid is selectively delivered to the one side to move the moveable barrier between a flow-permitting position that permits flow from the source of lubricant to the turbomachine fluid container and a flow-restricting position that restricts flow from the source of lubricant to the turbomachine fluid container.
US09127563B2

A locking device arrangement for a rotating bladed stage is provided and includes a wheel formed to define a substantially circumferential slot and three slot sections, one of the slot sections including one radial slot and two lock slots to permit blade and blade lock installation along the circumferential slot, respectively, the other slot sections including a lock slot to permit blade lock installation along the circumferential slot, and the three slot sections being separated from one another with angular offsets such that the wheel is mass balanced substantially evenly about a desired center of rotation with the blade locks installed and to reduce accumulation of flowpath gaps.
US09127561B2

A turbine bucket may include a platform and an airfoil extending from the platform. The airfoil may include an internal rib with a number of through holes positioned along a number of hole spaces and a number of in-between spaces. The in-between spaces may include a first depth, the hole spaces may include a second depth, and wherein the first depth is less than the second depth.
US09127558B2

A gas turbomachine includes a casing having a first casing half including first and second edge portions and a second casing half including first and second edge sections. The first edge portion is configured and disposed to be joined to the first edge section to form a first horizontal joint and the second edge portion is configured and disposed to be joined to the second edge section to form a second horizontal joint. At least one of the first edge portion and the first edge section including a first fluid passage, and at least one of the second edge portion and second edge section including a second fluid passage. The first and second fluid passages are configured and disposed to guide heated fluid along respective ones of the first and second horizontal joints.
US09127555B2

A method for balancing a rotating assembly of a gas turbine engine includes removing a stator vane from a section of the gas turbine engine. Removing the stator vane provides access to a rotating assembly of the gas turbine engine. The method further includes at least one of adding, removing, and repositioning a weight with respect to the rotating assembly via access to the rotating assembly provided by removing the stator vane.
US09127552B2

A transition piece aft frame is provided and includes a manifold having an interior that is receptive of fuel and formed to define fuel injection holes configured to inject the received fuel from the manifold interior toward a main flow of products of combustion flowing through the manifold. The manifold includes a main body having an interior facing surface that faces the main flow of the products of the combustion and along which the fuel injection holes are defined.
US09127546B2

The invention includes systems and methods for operating, monitoring and controlling downhole fluid control system at a below ground location in a wellhole. The system may include a downhole fluid control system comprising at least one pump, a spoolable composite pipe comprising a fluid channel and at least one energy conductor, and a distal connection device adapted to couple a distal end of the fluid channel to the at least one pump and couple a distal end of the at least one energy conductor to the downhole fluid control system.
US09127541B2

Heaters are presented to aid in the recovery of hydrocarbon from underground deposits. A heater is provided to a well that has been drilled through an oil-shale deposit. A fuel and an oxidizer are provided to the heater and flue gases are recovered. The heater has a counterflow design and provides a nearly uniform temperature along the heater length. The heater may be designed to operate at different temperatures and depths to pyrolyze or otherwise heat underground hydrocarbon deposits to form a product that is easily recovered and which is useful without substantial further processing. Various counterflow heaters are described including heaters having, down the heater length, distributed reaction zones, distributed catalytic oxidation of the fuel, and discrete or continuous heat generation. The heaters may also utilize inert gases from product recovery or from heater flue gases to control the heater temperature.
US09127538B2

Methods for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. Some methods include providing heat from a plurality of heaters to a section of the hydrocarbon containing formation; controlling the heat from the plurality of heaters such that an average temperature in at least a majority of a first portion of the section is above a pyrolyzation temperature; providing heat from the plurality of heaters to a second portion substantially above the first portion of the section after heating the first portion for a selected time; controlling the heat from the plurality of heaters such that an average temperature in the second portion is sufficient to allow the second portion to expand into the first portion; and producing hydrocarbons from the formation.
US09127536B2

A system for matching the hydrocarbon reservoir inflow with the outflow of an artificial lift system utilizes an apparatus which makes real time fluid level determinations and inputs the observed fluid levels into a processor which controls the speed of a motor which operates a subsurface pump, so as to increase hydrocarbon production. The apparatus which makes real time fluid determinations is installed such that a gas emission port and a pressure wave receiving port are placed within the tubing-casing annulus.
US09127533B2

The present invention relates to a completion assembly for running into a borehole in a formation through a well head or blowout preventer, comprising a casing string having a first end and a second end, and a drill pipe having a first end and a second end and extending through the well head or the blowout preventer and being releasably connected at the first end with the casing string. Furthermore, the invention relates to a completion method for completing a casing string. Moreover, the invention relates to a completion kit for making a completion assembly according to the present invention.
US09127529B2

A method is provided to allow characterization of rock or other types of samples using a sliver that is prepared to have a sample and optionally a plurality of thin discrete reference objects encapsulated by hardened encapsulant that surrounds the peripheral edges of the sample and any reference objects. Systems for performing the methods are also provided. An x-ray scannable sliver also is provided as a single unit that has a thin discrete sample and a plurality of thin discrete reference objects encapsulated by hardened encapsulant that encases the peripheral edges of the sample and reference objects.
US09127528B2

A technique facilitates control over a multi-position well tool. A hydraulic control module may be engaged with a multi-position well tool for controlling actuation of the multi-position well tool through a plurality of actuation positions. The multi-position well tool is moved through the plurality of actuation positions by applying pressurized fluid through a first control line. A metering piston is uniquely arranged within the hydraulic control module to control actuation of the multi-position well tool from an initial actuation position through a plurality of incremental actuation positions. Additionally, a single pressurization of actuation fluid delivered through a second control line may be used to return the multi-position well tool back to the initial actuation position from any incremental position.
US09127521B2

A downhole tool actuation system has a fluid path defined by a bore formed within a tubular body of a tool. A reciprocating sleeve is located within the bore and the sleeve has a segmented seat with a fluid by-pass. At least one seat segment is positioned by an outer diameter of the sleeve to complete the seat, and a relief is formed in a wall adjacent the outer diameter of the sleeve. When the seat is occupied by an obstruction, only a portion of the fluid path is obstructed and fluid impinging the obstruction causes the sleeve to move in the direction of flow until the at least one segment is relieved by the relief thereby releasing the obstruction.
US09127516B2

A dual firing line drilling installation has a drilling tower main structure with four frameworks that are each over a major portion of their height U-shaped in horizontal cross-section. A four-sided central (11) space is present, and along each side of the central space one framework is arranged with its opened vertical side facing the central space. First and second storage devices (25,27) are provided for vertically storing drilling tubulars. The first storage device is housed in a first framework, the second storage device in a second framework. A first hoisting device is supported by a third framework of the drilling tower main structure, to manipulate a string of drilling tubulars in a first firing line (21). A second hoisting device is supported by a fourth framework to manipulate a string of drilling tubulars in a second firing line (23). A first and second pipe racker (29,31) are housed within the drilling tower main structure and adapted to move drilling tubulars while supported in vertical orientation between a storage devices and a firing line.
US09127515B2

A nanomatrix carbon composite is disclosed. The nanomatrix carbon composite includes a substantially-continuous, cellular nanomatrix comprising a nanomatrix material. The composite also includes a plurality of dispersed particles comprising a particle core material that comprises an allotrope of carbon dispersed in the nanomatrix and a bond layer extending throughout the nanomatrix between the dispersed particles. The nanomatrix carbon composites are uniquely lightweight, high-strength, high thermal conductivity materials that also provide uniquely selectable and controllable corrosion properties, including very rapid corrosion rates, useful for making a wide variety of degradable or disposable articles, including various downhole tools and components.
US09127513B2

An auger attachment system having a collar combined with an auger and one or more couplers each having a first end and a second end. The coupler first end is adapted to operatively combine with the output drive shaft of an engine suitable for rotating an auger. Each coupler has a different size and/or geometry at their respective first ends to allow each coupler to combine with a drive shaft having the corresponding size and geometry. The coupler second end is adapted to combine with the collar thereby allowing a single auger to be used with multiple drive shafts, each having a different size and/or geometry.
US09127512B2

An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.
US09127509B2

A powered auger support device is provided having connection to a vehicle, a trailer hitch receiver on a vehicle, or the bed of a trailer, whereby a powered auger is slideably supported along an upright rail by way of a winch controlled by an operator. The device comprises a support structure having an upright rail, an auger support frame, and a pulley and winch system for raising and lowering the auger support frame. The auger support frame supports the handles of a stand-along auger and is pivotably supported along the rail, permitting the support frame to rotate with respect to the frame for placing the auger working end at different angles or in a horizontally stowed position. An embodiment of the upright rail contemplates a rotational hinge that places the auger support frame outside of the vehicle wheel tracks or outside of the bed of a trailer during use.
US09127508B2

A drilling apparatus includes a progressive cavity device that includes a plurality of linearly coupled rotors. Each rotor is disposed in a separate stator. Adjoining stators are separated by a coupling device configured to provide lateral support to the rotors. The stators may be enclosed in a common housing. The adjoining stator sections may be rigidly connected to each other.
US09127499B2

In accordance with one or more embodiments, a frame for an opening includes a first member, a second member, and a coating that is capable of facilitating bonding between the first member and the second member and also is capable of facilitating dimensional stability of the frame.
US09127496B1

A barrier for a home is disclosed. The barrier includes two portions that are quickly slideable relative to each other to take expanded and contracted forms. The barrier includes a metal frame and wood panels engaged in the metal frame. Each of the two portions includes at least one wood panel such that, when the barrier portions are slid to and away from each other, the wood panels slide to and away from each other. The barrier includes a corner pet door that opens in the expanded or contracted forms.
US09127492B2

A cable lift mechanism for a multi panel, overhead garage door includes a drum having a spiral groove comprised of two adjacent sections that are generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the cable drum. The groove or grooves in a first section adjacent the attachment end of the cable to the drum have a lesser radius than the remaining grooves of the second section of the drum which have substantially equal radii of greater diameter than the first section radii. As a consequence, initial torque associated with lifting of a garage door is increased to lift a heavier upper or top panel or panels of a multi-panel garage door.
US09127486B2

A clip assembly may safely secure sliding sashes of a window or door during transportation, and, in one embodiment, be comprised of a strap member and a pawl member. The strap member may be comprised of a bumper portion, and a strap portion extending therefrom, where the strap portion may have a plurality of teeth formed within the thickness of the strap. The pawl member may have a pair of sidewalls supported by a top wall and an intermediate wall. The top wall may have a protrusion which includes a plurality of pawl teeth formed to complement the strap teeth, and be located proximate to the intermediate wall. The strap may be introduced through the gap between the top rail of an upper sash and bottom rail of the second sash, to then be inserted into the pawl, and thereby be retained by the respective teeth to secure the sashes.
US09127480B2

A key and a lock cylinder (10) combination including a key and a lock cylinder having a housing and a plug. The key (25) includes a blade that has a first pin groove (210) on a first lateral side defining a first pin surface, and a second pin groove (215) on the first lateral side defining—a second pin surface. The lock cylinder also includes an auxiliary pin (115) with a first projection (135) defining a first engagement surface engageable by the first pin surface when the key is inserted into the key slot to move the auxiliary pin to a withdrawn position to allow rotation of the plug relative to the housing, and a second projection (140) defining a second engagement surface engageable by the second pin surface when the key is removed from the key slot to move the auxiliary pin to a projecting position to prevent rotation of the plug relative to the housing.
US09127473B1

The home entertainment stage includes a raised surface defining a miniature stage. The raised surface includes a plurality of fixtures integrated therein, which include lights, microphones and microphone stands as well as a fan. The home entertainment stage includes side surfaces, which may include audio/video controls, speakers, switches, lights, wheels, and a handle. The home entertainment stage has a size and shape comparable to a large coffee table, and is able to lie on a ground surface, or be turned to a side wherein the wheels enable the home entertainment stage to be rolled away when not in use.
US09127469B1

A safety system includes a sleeve fitted within a pool's suction line at the inlet thereof. An open end of the sleeve is approximately aligned with the suction line's inlet. The sleeve terminates with a plate that resides within the suction line. The plate has holes formed therethrough. A housing defining a plurality of distinct channels is fitted in the sleeve so that the distinct channels lie within the sleeve. Each of the distinct channels has a first opening on one end thereof and a second opening on another end thereof. The second openings reside in the sleeve. Each of the distinct channels is at least approximately three feet in length. The first openings are in fluid communication with the water in the pool, and are distributed around a periphery of an area of the housing that prevents coverage of all the first openings when a human interacts therewith.
US09127464B2

A roof mounting system mounts a structure to a roof and includes a roof substrate having a roof surface, a flashing positioned on the roof surface and having a flashing plane, and a bracket connected to the flashing. The bracket has a bottom surface that has a bracket plane. The bottom surface is positioned on the flashing, so that the flashing plane extends substantially parallel to the bracket plane. The bracket has a bracket aperture and a seal is positioned within the bracket aperture and has a seal aperture. A fastener extends through the bracket aperture and the seal aperture, and the seal limits flow of moisture through the bracket aperture. At least one of the flashing and the bracket form a drainage opening, so that the drainage opening permits egress of moisture away from of the bracket aperture.
US09127461B2

A load support structure supports a load on a metal panel roof, such that substantially all of the load is conveyed through rails, which are mounted on roof panel ribs. Lateral closure members extend about, and define, the load support structure. Cavities are provided in the lateral closure members. Thermal breaks extend upwardly from the roof opening, through the tops of the closure members. Such thermal breaks are provided by a combination of thermal product in the closure member cavities and by strategic placement of edge portions of underlying roof insulation.
US09127455B2

Ceiling suspension system including a plurality of rigid, elongated seismic joists interposed between opposing walls of a room, spaced selected distances apart along a horizontal support plane, and hangers suspended from the respective joists to support a grid from the respective lower ends thereof.
US09127449B2

A method of constructing a masonry infill in a load bearing structure comprises the steps of: laying one or more courses of masonry (7) in the infill space; partitioning off a casting space having as its base the then uppermost course of masonry (22); the casting space extending from one side of the infill space to the other; positioning reinforcing material (14) in the casting space; securing an end of the reinforcing material to the load bearing structure; filling the casting space with concrete (20), and laying one or more further courses of masonry on top of the filled casting space. The reinforced concrete forms a bond beam which strengthens the masonry. The reinforcing material may be rebar, secured to a load-bearing frame of the building by a cleat (16) having pockets (12) for reception of the rebar ends. Optionally the reinforcement may be tensioned, to pre-stress the bond beam. The bond beam may also be used to strengthen bonded, load-bearing masonry panels in bending, without being secured to an adjacent load-bearing structure.
US09127445B2

According to some embodiments, sewer alarm devices and apparatus are provided for detecting the presence of liquid within a pipe. In some embodiments, the devices and apparatus include a housing defining an interior volume, the housing including a top portion and a bottom portion, the bottom portion mounted on an exterior surface of the pipe. At least a first mounting portion extends outwardly from the housing and receives at least a first strap securing the housing to the exterior surface of the pipe. A probe housing extends from the interior volume of the housing to an interior of the pipe, and at least a first probe is disposed within the probe housing and exposed to the interior of the pipe along a first direction substantially along a center axis of the pipe.
US09127429B2

A device for supporting the walls of an excavation includes first and second opposing support panels that are spaced apart from one another by front and rear pairs of laterally extending separation members. Each support panel includes an outwardly bowed skin plate and a plurality of horizontal and vertical members secured to the inner surface of the skin plate for structural support. Each support panel additionally includes an inwardly bowed truss strap that is secured to the inner surface of the skin plate at its ends. In use, the truss strap serves to convert radial forces applied to the outer surface of the skin plate into tensile forces extending along the length of the strap. Accordingly, the outward radial curvature of the skin plate and the inclusion of the truss strap together serve to minimize the risk of panel deformation during use.
US09127407B2

A sizing composition includes from about 3 kg/ton to about 15 kg/ton of calcium propionate, an additive, and a balance of water. The additive is selected from the group consisting of starch, an optical brightener, a biocide, a defoamer, a surface size agent, a wet strength additive, and combinations thereof. The sizing composition has a pH ranging from 7 to 8.
US09127402B2

The disclosure provides a method for liquefying biomass, including: (a) mixing a solid organic ammonium salt containing single nitrogen with at least one organic compound which is capable of forming a hydrogen bond with the solid organic ammonium salt to form a first mixture; (b) heating the first mixture until the first mixture becomes a solution; (c) mixing a biomass and an acid catalyst with the solution to form a second mixture; and (d) heating the second mixture to make the biomass therein convert into a liquefied product.
US09127401B2

A process using a multicomponent enzyme preparation to treat screened once refined pulps and reduces the specific energy consumption and/or increasing production while maintaining or increasing handsheet physical properties. The enzyme preparation has a major endoglucanase activity, a significant mannanase activity and a relatively small cellobiohydrolase activity. This enzyme mixture is prepared from a genetically modified strain of Trichoderma reseii.
US09127399B2

An electrical domestic appliance includes a fire-prevention medium for fighting a fire in the domestic appliance in an early stage. The fire-prevention medium includes an active substance, which releases water, carbon dioxide and/or nitrogen under the effect of heat at a temperature below 100° C. The fire-prevention medium has a core, which contains the active substance and a carrier material, and a shell, which surrounds the core.
US09127390B2

Disclosed is a washing machine, a control panel assembly of which has an improved structure to minimize problems caused by a shaking of a rotary knob and the interference of the rotary knob with other surrounding parts. The control panel assembly of the washing machine includes a control panel, a knob guide installed on the control panel, and a rotary knob rotatably mounted on the knob guide and including a boss passing through the knob guide. The knob guide includes a boss insertion part restricting the boss to prevent the rotary knob from shaking. The boss insertion part includes an extension extended from the bottom surface of the knob guide and forming a boss insertion hole, into which the boss is inserted, therein.
US09127384B2

A sewing machine includes a bed, a sewing device, a projection portion, an item detection portion, and a control portion. The sewing device includes a needle bar and a feed portion that moves a work cloth. The projection portion projects, onto at least one of the bed and the work cloth, a projected image that includes at least one operation item that indicates an operation of the sewing device. The item detection portion detects whether a user's finger has touched a location, on the at least one of the bed and the work cloth onto which the at least one operation item is being projected by the projection portion, where one of the at least one operation item is being projected. The control portion operates the sewing device in accordance with the operation item that has been detected by the item detection portion.
US09127383B2

A sewing machine includes a position acquisition device, a projection device, a processor, and a memory. The position acquisition device is configured to acquire information describing at least one designated position, each of the at least one designated position being a position on a sewing workpiece. The projection device is configured to project an image onto the sewing workpiece. The memory is configured to store non-transitory computer-readable instructions that instruct the processor to execute a step that includes specifying the at least one designated position on the sewing workpiece described by the information acquired by the position acquisition device. The memory is also configured to store non-transitory computer-readable instructions that instruct the processor to execute a step that includes causing the projection device to project a visually recognizable marker onto the sewing workpiece, based on the specified at least one designated position.
US09127380B2

A water-repellent woven fabric having excellent water repellency, which is friendly to the environment, and a garment made of the water-repellent woven fabric are provided. A composite yarn containing a false-twist crimped textured yarn having an S-direction torque and a false-twist crimped textured yarn having a Z-direction torque is arranged for a warp or a weft to obtain a fabric, and a fluorine-based water repellent having a total concentration of perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid of 0 to 5 ng/g is then adhered to the woven fabric.
US09127377B2

A single-crystal pulling device includes vertically tilted magnetic coils between the walls of a cooling vessel. The inside and outside walls of the cooling vessel are coaxially aligned about a central axis. The inside wall of the cooling vessel is coaxially disposed around a cylindrical crucible that holds molten semiconductor material. A mid line passes through the middle point of a first coil, the central axis and the middle point of a second coil. The first coil is wound in a first plane, and the second coil is wound in a second plane. The first plane and the second plane both intersect the central axis at the same point. The first plane intersects the central axis at an angle between 5 and 15 degrees. In one embodiment, the first plane intersects the central axis below the crucible. In another embodiment, the first plane intersects the central axis above the crucible.
US09127375B2

The present invention is a base material for forming a single crystal diamond comprising, at least, a seed base material of a single crystal and a thin film heteroepitaxially grown on the seed base material, wherein the seed base material is a single crystal diamond and the thin film is Iridium film or Rhodium film. As a result, there is provided a base material for forming a single crystal diamond that enables a single crystal diamond having a high crystallinity to be heteroepitaxially grown thereon and that can be reused repeatedly and a method for producing a single crystal diamond that enables a single crystal diamond having a high crystallinity and a large area to be produced at low cost.
US09127374B2

A method for growing an epitaxial film on a surface of a semiconductor wafer by mounting the wafer within a susceptor pocket and supplying source gas and carrier gas to the upper surface side of the susceptor and supplying carrier gas to the lower surface side of the susceptor. The susceptor includes a substantially circular bottom wall and a sidewall encompassing the bottom wall to form a pocket for mounting the wafer, wherein a plurality of circular through-holes are formed in the bottom wall in an outer peripheral region a distance of up to about ½ the radius toward the center of the bottom wall. The total opening surface area of the through-holes is 0.05 to 55% of the surface area of the bottom wall, the opening surface area of each through-hole is 0.2 to 3.2 mm2 and the density of the through-holes is 0.25 to 25 per cm2.
US09127372B2

An object of the present invention is to manufacture single crystals of high quality on an industrial production scale by preventing impurities from being mixed in single crystals when the single crystals are produced by the solvothermal method.A pressure vessel body 1, in which a supercritical state is maintained, is made of heat resistant alloy, a portion of the pressure vessel body is open, a corrosion-resistant mechanical lining 5 is provided on an inner face of the pressure vessel and on an entire outer circumferential edge of the opening, and the opening is sealed by an airtight mating face formed out of a corrosion-resistant mechanical lining, which is formed on the outer circumferential edge of the opening, and by an airtight mating face of the corrosion-resistant mechanical lining cover 6 on an inner face of the cover 3 through a corrosion-resistant gasket member. Since the pressure vessel body and the inner face of the cover are covered with the corrosion-resistant mechanical lining, corrosion can be prevented. The corrosion-resistant mechanical lining ensures the sealing property on the airtight mating face between the pressure vessel body and the cover and further effectively prevents corrosion in the airtight sealing portion and it becomes possible to repeatedly open and close the airtight sealing portion.
US09127366B2

A surface treatment liquid contains a resin emulsion that contains a cationic urethane resin emulsion and/or a nonionic acrylic resin emulsion, a tetraalkoxysilane, at least one silane coupling agent (c) that contains at least one reactive functional group selected from active hydrogen-containing amino group, an epoxy group, a mercapto group, and a methacryloxy group, a chelating agent (d), a vanadic acid compound (e), a titanium compound (f), and water in a specific ratio. The surface treatment liquid has a pH of 3 to 6. The surface treatment liquid is applied to a surface of a zinc-based metal coated steel sheet and dried by heating to form a first layer. Next, a surface treatment liquid containing an organic resin is applied to a surface of the first layer and dried by heating to form a second layer.
US09127365B2

Methods of fabricating perpendicular magnetic recording media are disclosed. The multilayer structures of the perpendicular magnetic recording media are fabricated by varying the sputtering conditions (i.e., pressure, sputtering gas, etc) in a single sputtering module so that multiple sputtering modules are not needed to form the multilayer structures. These fabrication methods allow sputtering tools with a limited number of chambers, which were designed for the manufacture of longitudinal media, to be used to efficiently produce perpendicular media architectures which heretofore required a large number of sputtering modules. It is further shown that media structures involving a geometric weak-link architecture are suited for these fabrication techniques.
US09127364B2

A method and apparatus for performing chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a reactor body having a processing region, comprising a wafer carrier track having a wafer carrier disposed thereon, at least one sidewall having an exhaust assembly for exhausting gases from the processing region, a lid assembly disposed on the reactor body, comprising a lid support comprising a first showerhead assembly for supplying reactant gases to the processing region, a first isolator assembly for supplying isolation gases to the processing region, a second showerhead assembly for supplying reactant gases to the processing region, and a second isolator assembly for supplying isolation gases to the processing region, wherein the first showerhead assembly, the first isolator assembly, the second showerhead assembly, and the second isolator assembly are consecutively and linearly disposed next to each other.
US09127357B2

A system and method for movably sealing a vapor deposition source is described. One embodiment includes a system for coating a substrate, the system comprising a deposition chamber; a vapor pocket located within the deposition chamber; and an at least one movable seal, wherein the at least one movable seal is configured to form a first seal with a first portion of a substrate, and wherein the first seal is configured to prevent a vapor from leaking past the first portion of the substrate out of the vapor pocket. In some embodiments, the movable seal may comprise a first flange, wherein the first flange forms a wall of the vapor pocket; and a second flange, wherein the second flange is configured to be movably disposed within a first groove of the source block.
US09127343B2

A surface treating method for a golf club head made of carbon steel basically has one nitriding step and two oxidizing steps. The method further has polishing, sandblasting and rinsing steps and so on processed prior to or between the basic steps, and then has polishing and oil immersing steps and so on processed after the basic steps. The finished golf club head has uniform dark appearance and also has good corrosion resistance and abrasion resistance. Furthermore, the surface of the finished golf club head does not peel off. Moreover, the method also has advantages including low pollution and low cost.
US09127341B2

A surface-treated steel sheet for a container, comprising: a steel sheet, and a Zr compound film disposed on the steel sheet, wherein the Zr compound film being formed by a dipping or electrolytic treatment in a solution containing Zr ion, F ion, ammonium ion and nitrate ion; and the coating weight of the Zr compound film is 1 to 100 mg/m2 in terms of the amount of metallic Zr, and 0.1 mg/m2 or less in terms of the F amount. There is provided a steel sheet for container, which has an excellent processability in the can manufacturing, and at the same time, is excellent in drawing and ironing processability, weldability, corrosion resistance, adherence thereof to a coating material and adherence thereof to a film, and a process for producing such a steel sheet for container.
US09127323B2

The invention utilizes cloning and transformation techniques in combination with mutation and strain taming techniques to obtain yeasts having high xylose consumption rate and ethanol yield. The cloning and transformation used in the invention are to transform xylose metabolism genes to yeasts to solve the problem that some yeast strains cannot utilize xylose to produce ethanol. The mutation and strain taming used in the invention are to increase xylose consumption rate and ethanol yield to solve the problem of low rate and yield. By combining the above-mentioned technical means, the invention unexpectedly obtain a mutant having high xylose consumption rate and ethanol yield.
US09127317B2

A method for measuring blood levels of β cell DNA that is released upon β cell death by using a quantitative probe technology to detect amplified methylated and demethylated forms of the insulin gene DNA, representing normal tissue and β cell specific origin, respectively. Using probes permits the sensitive and specific identification of demethylated insulin DNA patterns that are present only in β cells. The method offers a bioassay for detecting β cell loss in diabetes, useful for screening of prediabetes, monitoring of disease progression, and selection and monitoring of therapies. The technique finds potential use in both Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as gestational diabetes.
US09127316B2

This application discloses SNPs capable of predicting increased or decreased risk of developing late onset Alzheimer's disease.
US09127307B2

Encoded bead multiplex assays for chromosomal gains and losses are provided that provide the benefits of complex, large template DNA sources, such as BAC DNA, as the probe material without bead networking or other assay performance problems. Reagents for assaying DNA are described herein which include a plurality of encoded particles having attached amplicons amplified from a template DNA sequence. Each individual attached amplicon includes a nucleic acid sequence identical to a random portion of the template DNA sequence, wherein the amplicons together represent substantially the entire template DNA and wherein the nucleic acid sequence identical to a random portion of the template DNA sequence of each individual amplicon is shorter than the entire template DNA.
US09127299B2

The present invention provides a method for directed selective solid-phase culturing of stable microbial mixed populations for the continuous preparation of defined enzyme and metabolite mixtures, enzyme and metabolite materials obtained by such method and suitable devices therefore.
US09127298B2

The invention relates to a process for producing one or more polyunsaturated fatty acids by means of heterologous gene expression comprising the steps of providing a production organism which comprises a heterologous gene cluster encoding a polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthetic pathway encompassing a subsequence ER encoding an enoylreductase and a subsequence AT encoding an acyltransferase, growing the production organism in the presence of a fermentable carbon source whereby one or more polyunsaturated fatty acids are produced, and optionally recovering the one or more polyunsaturated fatty acids.
US09127296B2

The disclosure relates to methods of capturing carbon by microbial fermentation of a gaseous substrate comprising CO. The methods include converting CO to one or more products including alcohols and/or acids and optionally capturing CO2 to improve overall carbon capture. In certain aspects, the disclosure relates to processes for producing alcohols, particularly ethanol, from industrial waste streams, particularly steel mill off-gas.
US09127293B2

Compositions and methods for delivering an agent to a cell comprising a prolactin receptor are provided. Also provided is a method of inhibiting a breast, ovarian or prostate cancer cell, where the method includes a step of contacting the cell with a complex comprising a prolactin receptor ligand linked to at least one of an RNAi-inducing agent, a polynucleotide sequence encoding a polypeptide, an miRNA, a cytotoxic moiety, a chemotherapeutic moiety, a radioactive moiety or a nanoparticle. Methods of detecting a cancer cell expressing a prolactin receptor are also provided.
US09127282B2

The present invention discloses systems and methods for altering the color of bacterial bioluminescence via a fusion protein complex by fusing Discosoma sp. fluorescent protein mOrange (mOrange) with Vibrio harveyi luciferase. The fusion of mOrange to the N- or C-terminus of either α or β subunit of luciferase, via a short peptide linker produces fully active fusion enzymes. The fusion of mOrange to the N-terminus of luciferase α gives rise to a new 560-nm emission component. The same methodology may be used to alter bacterial bioluminescence color by covalent attachment of other suitable fluorescent proteins or chromophores to luciferase for generating multi-color sensors.
US09127277B2

Methods and compositions are provided for the prevention or treatment of RSV infection in a human. The methods include administering one or more doses of a composition comprising an siRNA. The dose can be formulated for topical or parenteral administration. Topical administration includes administration as a nasal spray, or by inhalation of respirable particles or droplets.
US09127268B2

Inflammatory and other cellular response-modulating compositions are provided comprising aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase polypeptides, including active fragments and/or variants thereof. Also provided are methods of using such compositions in the treatment of conditions that benefit from the modulation of inflammation, such as inflammatory diseases or conditions.
US09127265B2

The present invention provides culture mediums that are useful for the expression of ADAMTS proteins, such as ADAMTS13. Methods for the expression and purification of ADAMTS proteins are also provided. In some embodiments, the mediums and methods of the invention are useful for the expression of ADAMTS proteins having high specific activities. Also provided are ADAMTS, e.g., ADAMTS13, protein compositions with high specific activities, which are expressed and purified according to the methods provided herein.
US09127258B2

Novel proteins having DNA polymerase are described which have utility in amplification reactions and have improved properties over Bst polymerase such as for example enhanced reverse transcriptase activity.
US09127253B2

A method for producing mature hepatocytes having functional hepatic enzyme activity from human pluripotent cells is disclosed. The method includes the step of transferring an external vector that includes a microRNA having the seed sequence of the microRNA miR-122, a DNA sequence coding for such a microRNA, a microRNA having the seed sequence of the microRNA miR-let-7c, a DNA sequence coding for such a microRNA, or a combination these, into one or more fetal hepatocytes. The resulting cells differentiate into mature hepatocytes that exhibit functional hepatic enzyme activity, and that can be used in drug metabolism and toxicity testing, in the study of viruses that target hepatic tissue, and as therapeutics.
US09127244B2

A renewable energy system includes a digester assembly having an outer tube with an input region and a digestion region. The input region extends above grade and is configured to receive liquid waste. At least a portion of the digestion region is positioned below grade and configured to receive the liquid waste and to anaerobically digest the liquid waste with microorganisms to supply renewable byproducts, such as methane, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and/or carbon dioxide-rich water. The digester assembly can include two or more deformable tubes that are configured to move liquid through the outer tube by alternatingly compressing one another. In one embodiment, the deformable tubes are configured to replenish waste liquid and to deliver liquid byproducts. In another embodiment, the deformable tubes are configured to exhaust air, such as for delivery of gas byproducts and fostering an anaerobic environment.
US09127241B2

A non-Newtonian concentrate composition includes a sensitizer or irritant, a surfactant, an anti-mist component and optionally a stability component. Example sensitizers and irritants include, but are not limited to, acids, quaternary compounds, and amines, and example anti-mist components include, but are not limited to, polyethylene oxide and polyacrylamide.
US09127240B2

Process to prepare an aqueous composition comprising a non-ionic antibacterial compound having a ClogP above about 2, the process having the steps of: pre-mixing the non-ionic antibacterial compound having a ClogP above about 2 with an oil to prepare a premix having more than about 60% per weight of the premix of oil and of non-ionic antibacterial compound having a ClogP above about 2, mixing the premix with water to obtain an aqueous composition having more than about 50% per weight of water.
US09127237B2

A surfactant composition comprising alkylarylsulfonate molecules wherein more than 30 wt. % of the alkylarylsulfonate molecules of the surfactant composition are species of the formula: [R—X—Ar(SO3)−]a[Mn+]b wherein: X is a linear acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbyl chain; R is bound to a non-terminal carbon atom of X and is selected from H and C1 to C3 alkyl groups; X and R together have 10 or less carbon atoms, preferably 9 or 10 carbon atoms, most preferably 10 carbon atoms; Ar is an aromatic group; M is a cation or cation mixture, n is selected from 1, 2 and 3; and a and b are selected such that the alkylarylsulfonate molecule is electroneutral.
US09127236B2

A highly alkaline detergent is described which includes the use of a carboxylic acid terpolymer in combination with an alkali metal hydroxide. The detergent maintains cleaning functions and also prevents hard water scaling at application temperatures, for example at temperatures of between about 145-180 degrees Fahrenheit and, for example, at a pH of 9.5 to about 13.
US09127233B2

The present invention is directed to solubilizing compounds, a device and a method for solubilizing and removing carboxylic acids and especially fatty acids from oils, fats, aqueous emulsion, aqueous media and organic solutions. Devices utilizing the inventive method shall be used for separating carboxylic acids from oils, fats, aqueous emulsion, lipophilic media or organic solutions, respectively by preparing an aqueous micro- or nanoemulsion of the carboxylic acids especially the fatty acids and the solubilizing compound which contains at least one amidino and/or gianidino group. Solubilization effects of solubilizing compounds combined with the inventive use of separation methods for carboxylic acids can be used to treat persons in need of removal of fatty acids or analyze carboxylic acids from blood or process other solutions in food, pharmacy, chemistry, bio fuel industry or other industrial processings.
US09127232B2

The use as an anti-wear additive and/or friction modifier in a non-aqueous lubricant composition and/or in a fuel composition of at least one long chain fatty acid ester of a hydroxy carboxylic acid in which the long chain fatty acid has at least 4 carbon atoms and the ester is an oil-soluble ester of a mono- or poly- hydroxy carboxylic acid having 1 to 4 groups which are independently carboxylic acid groups or lower hydrocarbyl esters thereof and in which, when the hydroxy carboxylic acid is a mono-hydroxy carboxylic acid, the ester has a long chain fatty acid ester moiety of the hydroxy group of the hydroxy carboxylic acid and, when the hydroxy carboxylic acid is a poly-hydroxy carboxylic acid, the ester has independently long chain fatty acid ester moieties of one or two of the hydroxy groups of the poly-hydroxy carboxylic acid. Also, a non-aqueous lubricant composition and a fuel composition for an internal combustion engine which comprises at least one of said long chain fatty acid esters.
US09127230B2

A functional amine release agent displaying reduced coefficient of friction as compared to standard silicone oils, the release agent comprising a polydimethylsiloxane oil and a functional amine selected from the group consisting of pendant propylamines and pendant N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl; wherein the concentration of functional amine to polydimethylsiloxane oil is approximately less than 0.0006 meq/g. According to certain embodiments, the functional amine release agent is operable to impart a coefficient of friction of about 0.3 or more to the print media, resulting in improved finishing and converting equipment interaction.
US09127221B2

The present invention relates to processes for hydromethanating a carbonaceous feedstock to an acid gas-depleted methane-enriched synthesis gas, with improved efficiency of the acid gas removal treatment.
US09127218B2

One exemplary embodiment can be a process for hydroprocessing. The process can include providing a hydroprocessing zone having at least two beds, and quenching downstream of a first bed of the at least two beds with a first vacuum gas oil that may be lighter than another vacuum gas oil fed to the first bed.
US09127212B2

A process and apparatus for fluid catalytic cracking feeds catalyst to a chamber of a riser. The catalyst exits the chamber and passes through a plenum and into a reaction zone through a plurality of tubes which distribute the catalyst uniformly over a cross section of the reaction zone of the riser. A hydrocarbon feed is fed to the plenum. The hydrocarbon feed passes from the plenum into the reaction zone through a plate comprising a multiplicity of openings which distribute the hydrocarbon feed uniformly over a cross section of the reaction zone of the riser. The feed is contacted with the catalyst in a reaction zone of the riser.
US09127210B2

Provided herein are, inter alia, compositions including a surfactant and a novel compound useful in enhanced oil recovery. The compositions and methods provided herein may be particularly useful for oil recovery under a broad range of reservoir conditions (e.g. high to low temperatures, high to low salinity, highly viscous oils).
US09127204B2

Disclosed is a method for preparing a fluorescent substance, which is represented by the formula M1-zEuzSiaObNc (M=Sr1-x-yBaxCay, 0 x 0.5, 0 y 0.2, 0
US09127203B2

There is provided a phosphor having a β-type Si3N4 crystal structure including oxynitride expressed by an empirical formula Si6-zAlzOz N8-z:Eua,Mb, M being at least one selected from among strontium (Sr) and barium (Ba), an amount (a) of europium (Eu) ranging from 0.1 to 5 mol %, an amount (b) of M ranging from 0.1 to 10 mol %, and a composition rate (z) of aluminum (Al) satisfying 0.1
US09127190B2

According to the present invention, a cover tape for electronic component packaging is provided which has suitable transparency, and which enables suppression of the charge that occurs during peeling from carrier tape. The cover tape for electronic component packaging of the present invention is provided with a heat sealant layer on top of the base layer, and the aforementioned heat sealant layer contains polyolefin resin and polyether-polyolefin copolymer. The weight ratio of the polyether-polyolefin copolymer in the aforementioned heat sealant layer is 10 weight % or more and 70 weight % or less.
US09127187B1

A chemical mechanical polishing composition includes a water based liquid carrier and first and second silica abrasives dispersed in the liquid carrier. The first silica abrasive is a colloidal silica abrasive having a permanent positive charge of at least 10 mV. The second silica abrasive has a neutral charge or a non-permanent positive charge. A method for chemical mechanical polishing a substrate including a tungsten layer includes contacting the substrate with the above described polishing composition, moving the polishing composition relative to the substrate, and abrading the substrate to remove a portion of the tungsten from the substrate and thereby polish the substrate.
US09127184B2

A polymeric dispersant obtained or obtainable by copolymerizing a monomer composition comprising at least the components: i) benzyl (meth)acrylate; ii) propylene glycol (meth)acrylate; wherein the weight ratio of component i) to component ii) is greater than 10:1.
US09127173B2

The disclosure provides methods and materials suitable for preparing coating layers on substrates. The coatings comprise quaternary amine groups and therefore impart anti-bacterial properties to the substrate. in one embodiment, for example, there is provided a quaternary amine-containing polymeric coating comprising propylene and ethylene repeat units.
US09127171B2

Disclosed is an anti-reflection film comprising a high refractive index layer comprising a first binder including a crosslinked polymer of a multifunctional (meth)acrylate compound, and nano silica particles dispersed in the first binder; and a low refractive index layer laminated on the high refractive index layer, and comprising a second binder including a crosslinked copolymer of a multifunctional (meth)acrylate compound and a fluorine-based (meth)acrylate compound, and hollow silica particles and hollow silica particles coated with a fluorine-based compound on the surface, which are dispersed in the second binder, wherein the weight ratio of the hollow silica particles to the hollow silica particles coated with a fluorine-based compound is 1:1˜10. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing the anti-reflection film using a composition that is separated into at least two layers by phase separation after single layer coating by a more simplified process.
US09127162B2

The disclosure includes the use in a bituminous composition of an organogelator derivative which has a molar mass no higher than 2,000 g/mol and includes at least one hydrogen bonds donor D, at least one hydrogen bonds acceptor A and at least one compatibilizer agent C in the bitumen, the compatibilizer agent C including a group selected among: at least one straight hydrocarbon chain including at least 4 carbon atoms, or at least one aliphatic cycle of 3 to 8 atoms, or at least one aromatic cycle, or at least one aliphatic or partly aromatic, or even entirely aromatic, condensed polycyclic system, each cycle including 5 or 6 atoms taken alone or as a mixture, to improve the resistance to aggressive chemical agents, in particular to hydrocarbons, such as gasolines, diesels and/or kerosenes, excluding N,N′-ethylene bis(stearamide) and excluding fatty-chains polyamines obtained by reacting polyalkylene fatty-chains polyamines of general formula (I) R—NH—(CH2—CH2—CH2—NH)n—H wherein R is a linear hydrocarbon chain, saturated and/or unsaturated, of 8 to 22 carbon atoms, n being an integer from 1 to 5, with formic acid.
US09127154B2

A thermoplastic molding composition characterized by its flame retardance and impact strength is disclosed. The composition contains A) 70 to 99 parts by weight of aromatic poly(ester) carbonate B) 1 to 30 parts by weight of polyalkylene terephthalate, the total weight of A) and B) being 100 parts resin, and C) 1 to 20 parts per hundred parts resin (phr) of graft (co)polymer having a core-shell morphology, including a grafted shell that contains polymerized alkyl(meth)acrylate and a composite rubber core that contains interpenetrated and inseparable polyorganosiloxane and poly(meth)alkyl acrylate components, D) 2 to 20 phr of a phosphorous-containing compound, and E) 0.1 to 2 part by weight of fluorinated polyolefin.
US09127151B2

Polymer compositions for use as viscosity modifiers comprising at least two ethylene-based copolymer components are provided. The polymer composition comprises (a) a first ethylene-α-olefin copolymer and (b) a second ethylene-α-olefin copolymer. The first ethylene-α-olefin copolymer (a) has an ethylene content from about 60 to about 80 wt % and the second ethylene-α-olefin copolymer (b) has an ethylene content of less than about 60 wt %. The first ethylene-α-olefin copolymer (a) has a Melt Flow Rate Ratio (MFRR), defined as the ratio of the MFR measured at 230° C./21.6 kg and at 230° C./2.16 kg, of greater than 30 and optionally also has a Melt Flow Rate (MFR) of at least about 1.5 g/10 min, measured by ASTM D 1238 condition L (230° C./2.16 kg). The present disclosure is also directed to lubricant compositions comprising a lubricating basestock and a polymer composition of the present disclosure and is further directed to reducing gelation in the lubricant compositions.
US09127145B2

The present invention provides a rubber composition formed by blending from 1 to 100 parts by mass of carbon black and/or from 5 to 150 parts by mass of an inorganic filler, from 0.5 to 30 parts by mass of a sulfur-containing compounding agent, and from 0.01 to 20 parts by mass of a boron-containing compounding agent into 100 parts by mass of a sulfur-crosslinkable diene rubber, and a pneumatic tire in which the rubber composition is used in at least one type selected from the group consisting of a capped tread, a side wall, a belt, an inner liner, a carcass, and a bead.
US09127138B2

A method and compositions are described which improve extrusion- and creep-resistance of components for use in a high temperature applications including sealing elements and seal connectors among others. The method includes providing a composition having an aromatic polymer and a crosslinking compound, and subjecting the composition to a heat molding process to form the component and crosslink the aromatic polymer.
US09127133B2

A polypropylene-based resin composition comprising 61 to 85% by weight of a copolymer (X) of propylene, α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms and/or ethylene, in which a content of a constitutional unit derived from propylene is 86 to 97% by weight, a total of a content of a constitutional unit derived from ethylene and a content of a constitutional unit derived from α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms is 3 to 14% by weight, provided that a total of the content of a constitutional unit derived from propylene, the content of a constitutional unit derived from ethylene and the content of a constitutional unit derived from α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms is defined to be 100% by weight, 1 to 38% by weight of a copolymer (Y) of propylene and α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms, in which a melting point is 115° C. or more, and a content of a constitutional unit derived from α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms is 10 to 30% by weight, and 1 to 38% by weight of a copolymer (Z) of propylene and α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms, in which a melting point is less than 115° C., and a content of a constitutional unit derived from α-olefin having 4 or more of carbon atoms is 30 to 40% by weight, wherein a total of the copolymer (X), the copolymer (Y) and the copolymer (Z) is defined to be 100% by weight.
US09127123B2

This invention relates to the synthesis of polymers. More specifically, the present invention relates to the synthesis of heterobifunctional polymers and polymers with narrow and mono-disperse molecular weight distributions, and especially to the application of membranes to the synthesis of these polymers.
US09127121B2

Disclosed herein are precursor polymers containing units of heteroaryls and units of Si, Sn, Ge, or Pb, methods of producing the precursor polymers, and applications utilizing these precursor polymers to prepare conductive polymers.
US09127117B2

The present invention is a method for producing a polyamide resin, wherein a nylon salt obtained from a dicarboxylic acid and a diamine having a boiling point exceeding 100° C. is heated to be polymerized under normal pressure while water vapor is being allowed to be present in the polymerization reaction system.
US09127115B1

A method to generate renewable high performance composites and thermoplastics. These materials can be generated from a renewable phenol (syringaldehyde) that can be derived from lignocellulosic biomass. The use of syringaldehyde as a precursor to composites has the potential to reduce the cost and environmental impact of structural materials, while meeting or exceeding the performance of current petroleum derived resins.
US09127114B2

There is provided a curable fluorine-containing polymer composition which is quickly cured at relatively low temperatures by hydrosilylation reaction and provides a coating film which has high hardness, excellent solvent resistance and flexibility. The curable fluorine-containing polymer composition comprises a fluorine-containing polymer comprising a fluorinated ethylenic monomer unit and a non-fluorinated ethylenic monomer unit, in which a part or the whole of the non-fluorinated ethylenic monomer units is a unit represented by the formula: wherein R1 is hydrogen or methyl; R2 is a hydrocarbon group having ethylenic C═C; X is —C(O)NH— or —C(O)—; R3 is —O—, —O[CH(R4)]mO—, —(CH2)mO—, —OC(O)—(CH2)mO— or —(CH2)mOC(O)—(CH2)nO—, where R4 is —H, —OH, —CH2OH or —O—X—R2, a siloxane compound having hydrogen atom bonded to silicon atom, and a catalyst for hydrosilylation reaction.
US09127107B2

The present invention provides aqueous amphiphilic emulsion copolymer compositions comprising one or more aqueous phase copolymer, a residue of one or more hydrophilic chain transfer agent, and a residue of one or more hydrophobic chain transfer agent, as well as methods of making such copolymers in water or an aqueous liquid by copolymerizing a monomer component of from 20 to 80 wt. %, based on the weight of the monomer component, of a hydrophilic group-containing monomer and the remainder of a copolymerizable ethylenically unsaturated monomer or prepolymer in the presence of a mixed chain transfer agent component comprising a hydrophilic chain transfer agent, such as 3-mercaptopropionic acid, and a hydrophobic chain transfer agent, such as N-dodecyl mercaptan. The aqueous amphiphilic emulsion copolymers of the present invention are storage stable and exhibit excellent viscosity control even in high solids compositions, e.g. from 50 to 80 wt. % of the composition. The high solids compositions can be diluted at the point of use, thus reducing shipment costs.
US09127106B2

Olefin polymerization is carried out with a supported phosphinimine catalyst which has been treated with a long chain substituted amine compound.
US09127100B2

A method for preparing a functionalized polymer, the method comprising the steps of: (i) polymerizing monomer with a coordination catalyst to form a reactive polymer; and (ii) reacting the reactive polymer with a nitroso compound.
US09127088B2

Provided herein are glucagon superfamily peptides conjugated with NHR ligands that are capable of acting at a nuclear hormone receptor. Also provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions and kits of the conjugates of the invention. Further provided herein are methods of treating a disease, e.g., a metabolic disorder, such as diabetes and obesity, comprising administering the conjugates of the invention.
US09127067B2

The present invention relates to polypeptides directed against or specifically binding to chemokine receptor CXCR2 and in particular to polypeptides capable of modulating signal transduction from CXCR2. The invention also relates to nucleic acids, vectors and host cells capable of expressing the polypeptides of the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the polypeptides and uses of said polypeptides and compositions for treatment of diseases involving aberrant functioning of CXCR2.
US09127064B2

The present invention provides isolated anti-human NKG2D monoclonal antibodies useful for therapeutic applications in humans. Typically, the antibodies are fully human or humanized to minimize the risk for immune responses against the antibodies when administered to a patient. Preferred antibodies include human monoclonal antibodies MS and 21 F2. As described herein, other antigen-binding molecules such as, e.g., antigen-binding antibody fragments, antibody derivatives, and multi-specific molecules, can be designed or derived from such antibodies.
US09127063B2

The present invention concerns a family of nucleic acids, polypeptides and cloning vectors which direct expression of fusion proteins that can mimic aggregated IgG (AIG) and immune complex function with respect to their interactions with FcγR and which allow for the inclusion and targeting of a second protein domain to cells expressing FcγR. This was accomplished by expressing multiple linear copies of the hinge and CH2 domains (HCH2) of human IgG1 fused to the framework region of human IgG1. Convenient restriction sites allow for the facile introduction of additional amino-terminal domains. Methods for treating patients using fusion proteins are also disclosed. The HCH2 polymers described here represent a new strategy in the design of recombinant proteins for the therapeutic targeting of FcγR in autoimmune disorders.
US09127036B2

Bile acids and related compositions and methods of synthesis and use. More specifically, deoxycholic acid and related compositions, said compositions being free of all moieties of animal origin and free of pyrogenic moieties.
US09127035B2

This invention relates to a compound of Formula 1A: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein R1 to R4, R7, R9 to R12 and Y are as defined herein. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical composition comprising said compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; and method of using same for reducing or reversing bacterial resistance to at least one aminoglycoside antibiotic.
US09127026B2

The present invention relates to a method for preparing a silica grafted with an organosilicon compound, to a grafted silica obtained according to said method and to the use thereof in compositions of silicone crosslinkable into an elastomer.
US09127024B2

The present disclosure provides boron-containing diacylhydrazines having Formula I: and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are defined as set forth in the specification. The present disclosure also provides the use of boron-containing diacylhydrazines is ecdysone receptor-based inducible gene expression systems. Thus, the present disclosure is useful for applications such as gene therapy, treatment of disease, large scale production of proteins and antibodies, cell-based screening assays, functional genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and regulation of traits in transgenic organisms, where control of gene expression levels is desirable.
US09127023B2

Disclosed are an electrolyte additive represented by the following Chemical Formula, an electrolyte including the same, and a rechargeable lithium battery. The electrolyte may have high dissolution capability in a non-aqueous organic solvent and high affinity for the surface of a negative electrode while promoting formation of a passivation film on the surface of a positive electrode and/or a negative electrode.
US09127014B2

The present disclosure provides processes for the N-dealkylation of tertiary amines and the use of transition metal catalysts to prepare tertiary N-allyl amine derivatives and secondary amine derivatives thereof. The tertiary amines can be alkaloids and, more particularly, the tertiary amines can be opioids. In specific embodiments, the present disclosure provides methods for use in processes for the synthesis of naloxone and naltrexone from oripavine.
US09127013B2

Compounds useful in the synthesis of compounds for treating pain, cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative disease or Typanosoma cruzi infection in a mammal.
US09127010B2

The present invention relates to an improved method for the preparation of 13-cyclohexyl-3-methoxy-6-[methyl-(2-{2-[methyl-(sulphamoyl)-amino]-ethoxy}-ethyl)-carbamoyl]-7H-indolo-[2,1-a]-[2]-benzazepine-10-carboxylic acid. The present invention also relates to a new compound, namely tert-butyl (methyl-{2-[2-(methylamino)-ethoxy]-ethyl}-sulphamoyl)-carbamate, used in this improved method.
US09127005B2

Disclosed are isoform selective Phospholipase D inhibitors. In one aspect, the disclosed compounds can have a structure represented by a formula (I): Also disclosed are methods of making and using the compounds. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising the compounds. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention.
US09127002B2

The invention relates to a process and synthetic intermediates that can be used for manufacturing the compound of formula (1-6) which is a synthetic intermediate useful in the preparation of antibiotic compounds.
US09126990B2

The present invention discloses novel methods for synthesizing Rivaroxaban intermediate, i.e., 4-{4-[(5S)-5-(aminomethyl)-2-oxo-1,3-oxazolidin-3-yl]phenyl}morpholin-3-one. The novel methods provided in the present invention involve mild reaction conditions, convenient operations, easy purification, and low production costs, and thus the process is environmental-friendly and suitable for industrial production.
US09126989B2

Described herein is a method of treating long QT syndrome by administration of an effective amount of a potent and selective late sodium ion channel blocker.
US09126987B2

The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I), combinations and uses thereof for disease therapy, wherein R1 represents heteroaryl, -carbocyclyl-heteroaryl, -alkenylheteroaryl or -alkylheteroaryl; R2 represents alkyl; carbocyclyl which may optionally be substituted by alkyl; alkenyl; alkynyl, provided a triple bond is not adjacent to X; -alkyl-aryl; -alkyl-heteroaryl; -alkyl-heterocyclyl in which heterocyclyl may optionally be substituted by alkyl; -alkyl-carbocyclyl in which carbocyclyl may optionally be substituted by alkyl; aryl; heteroaryl; or H; X represents S or NR3; R3 represents H or C1-4 alkyl.
US09126962B2

Substituted phenylcarbamoyl alkylamino arenes; substituted phenylthiocarbamyl alkylamino arenes; substituted phenylcarbamoyl alkylamino heteroarenes; substituted phenylthiocarbamyl alkylamino heteroarenes; N-substituted aryl, N′-substituted aryl urea compounds; N-substituted aryl, N′-substituted heteroaryl urea compounds; N-substituted aryl, N′-substituted aryl thiourea compounds and N-substituted aryl, N′-substituted heteroaryl thiourea compounds are provided and may find use as androgen receptor modulators. The compounds may find particular use in treating prostate cancer, including castration-resistant prostate cancer and/or hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.
US09126960B2

Provided herein are novel compounds that inhibit ribonucleotide reductase (RR) by binding to RRM2 and interfering with the activity of the RRM1/RRM2 holoenzyme, as well as methods of synthesizing these novel compounds. The compounds may be used to inhibit RR activity and to treat various conditions associated with RRM2 expression, such as for example certain cancer types, mitochondrial diseases, or degenerative diseases.
US09126959B2

The present invention relates to novel salts of thiazolidinediones and other pharmaceutical agents that are useful for treating and/or preventing metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes, or neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease).
US09126952B2

The invention relates to compounds of the formulae (I), (II) and (III) in which R1, R2, R3, R4, Y, W1, W2, L, A, Alk, Cyc, Ar, Het1, Het2, Hal and n have the meaning indicated in Claim 1, and/or physiologically acceptable salts, tautomers and stereoisomers thereof, including mixtures thereof in all ratios. The compounds of the formula (I) can be used for the inhibition of serine/threonine protein kinases and for the sensitization of cancer cells to anticancer agents and/or ionizing radiation. The invention also relates to the use of the compounds of the formula (I) in the prophylaxis, therapy or progress control of cancer, tumors, metastases or angiogenesis disorders, in combination with radiotherapy and/or an anticancer agent. The invention furthermore relates to a process for the preparation of the compounds of the formula (I) by reaction of compounds of the formulae (II) and (III) and optionally conversion of a base or acid of the compounds of the formula (I) into one of their salts.
US09126950B2

The present invention provides compounds, pharmaceutically acceptable compositions thereof, and methods of using the same.
US09126946B2

The present invention is directed to processes and intermediates useful for the preparation of 1-[3-(4-bromo-2-methyl-2H-pyrazol-3-yl)-4-methoxy-phenyl]-3-(2,4-difluoro-phenyl)-urea (Compound I), crystalline forms and solvate forms thereof; and compositions comprising 1-[3-(4-bromo-2-methyl-2H-pyrazol-3-yl)-4-methoxy-phenyl]-3-(2,4-difluoro-phenyl)-urea, crystalline forms and solvate forms thereof prepared by processes as described herein.
US09126942B2

This invention concerns arylsulfonyl pyrazoline carboxamidine derivatives as antagonists of 5-ht6 receptors, to methods for the preparation of these compounds and to novel intermediates useful for their synthesis. The invention also relates to the uses of such compounds and compositions, particularly their use in administering them to patients to achieve a therapeutic effect in Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, manic depression, psychoses, epilepsy, obsessive compulsive disorders, mood disorders, migraine, Alzheimer's disease, age related cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, sleep disorders, eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorders, panic attacks, akathisia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit disorder, withdrawal from abuse of cocaine, ethanol, nicotine or benzodiazepines, pain, disorders associated with spinal trauma or head injury, hydrocephalus, functional bowel disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity and type-2 diabetes. The compounds have the general formula (1) wherein the symbols have the meanings given in the description.
US09126939B2

Compounds are provided that are modulators of the C5a receptor. The compounds are substituted piperidines and are useful in pharmaceutical compositions, methods for the treatment of diseases and disorders involving the pathologic activation of C5a receptors.
US09126934B2

An objective of the present invention is to provide a process for producing 4-carbonyl oxyquinoline derivatives useful as agricultural and horticultural pesticides and fungicides. The objective can be attained by a process for producing 4-carbonyl oxyquinoline derivatives represented by general formula (1), the process including reacting a quinolone derivative with a halogenated compound or an acid anhydride in the presence of a phase transfer catalyst and a base.
US09126930B2

The invention discloses a method for the preparation of octahydrocyclopenta[c]pyrrole, also called 3-azabicyclo[3.3.0]octane, by hydrogenation of 1,2-dicyanocyclo-1-pentene.
US09126928B2

Disclosed is a 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-1-pyrrolidineacetamide racemate crystal form I which is prepared by the following steps: dissolving crude 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-1-pyrrolidineacetamide racemate in a solvent such as a micromolecular alcohol to form a saturated solution; heating and stirring the solution overnight at 38˜42° C. to obtain a suspended precipitate; filtering and drying the solution to obtain a crystal. Such 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-1-pyrrolidineacetamide racemate crystal form I has a purity as high as 99.5%, which has significant treatment effect on curing respective diseases, and the 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-1-pyrrolidineacetamide racemate crystal form I has the features of simple manufacturing method, mild control condition, and low production cost, and its yield rate is as high as 99.5% which is applicable for mass production.
US09126924B2

Chemical compositions, lubricant compositions, and methods of using the same are provided. The lubricant composition may comprise at least on carrier. In certain methods, the lubricant composition may be provided to at least one surface, wherein the lubricant composition reduces a coefficient of friction of the at least one surface. In certain methods, the lubricant composition may be provided to at least one surface, wherein the lubricant composition reduces wear of the at least one surface.
US09126919B2

Disclosed herein is a chain transfer agent in a free-radical emulsion polymerization process, of at least one mercapto-methyl ester, and also relates to the free-radical emulsion (co)polymerization process comprising at least one such mercapto-methyl ester and uses thereof. Also disclosed herein are mercapto-methyl diesters.
US09126916B2

The invention describes methods and systems for making particular organic compounds from unsaturated fatty acids derived from biological materials. Particular embodiments describe synthesizing civetone and olefins from a mixture of palmitoleic and oleic unsaturated fatty acid esters. The inventive methods use reaction steps such as metathesis, cyclization, hydrolysis, and/or decarboxylation.
US09126912B1

A process for preparing ethylene glycol comprising: forming intermediums of formaldehyde and glycolaldehyde to synthetize ethylene glycol by reacting methanol with methanol in the presence of a catalyst composition comprising rhodium catalysts and ruthenium catalysts at a temperature between 50-150° C. and a pressure between 0-40 kg/cm2G.
US09126906B2

Processes for synthesizing aminosulfone compounds are provided. The processes provided herein utilize asymmetric reduction reactions, e.g., asymmetric hydrogenation, of protected or unprotected enamine or ketone substrates. Aminosulfone compounds obtained using methods provided herein are useful in production or synthesis of sulfone group containing isoindoline based compounds.
US09126903B2

The present application relates to a preparation method for solid powder of a carbamic acid derivative, which includes reacting an amine derivative with carbon dioxide at a temperature in a range of from about −30° C. to about 500° C. and at a pressure in a range of from about 0.3 MPa to about 100 MPa. In addition, the present disclosure relates to a reduction method for solid powder of a carbamic acid derivative to an amine derivative and carbon dioxide, which includes dissolving solid powder of the carbamic acid derivative prepared in a solvent; refluxing the carbamic acid derivative at a temperature in a range of from about 30° C. to about 100° C.; and evaporating the solvent.
US09126901B2

The present invention relates to a continuous process for the preparation of an aminonitrile comprising the stages of: a) formation of the aminonitrile by reaction between an alkenyl nitrile, mixed with aminonitrile, and a monoamine introduced in molar excess with respect to the alkenyl nitrile; b) separation of the unreacted monoamine and the aminonitrile; c) reaction between the monoamine separated during stage b) and all or part of the alkenyl nitrile in order to form a mixture of aminonitrile and of unreacted alkenyl nitrile, with the alkenyl nitrile being introduced in molar excess with respect to the said monoamine; d) transfer of the mixture of aminonitrile and alkenyl nitrile resulting from stage c) to the reaction of stage a), and e) in the case where only a portion of the alkenyl nitrile is introduced during stage c), introduction of the remaining molar amount of alkenyl nitrile into the mixture of stage d).
US09126899B2

The present invention addresses the problem of providing with a simple production process and with high efficiency a new photosensitive azobenzene derivative which is capable of freely controlling phase transition by photostimulation, and the problem is solved by using an azobenzene derivative represented by general formula (1). (1) (In the formula, R1 and R6 are independently an alkoxyl group having 6-18 carbon atoms, R2-R5 and R7-R10 are independently a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms which may have branches, provided that not all of R2-R5 and R7-R10 are hydrogen).
US09126895B2

The present invention provides a reagent for measuring a degree of oxidative stress that includes a compound represented by the following general formula (I) or a salt thereof, and a method of measuring a degree of oxidative stress using the reagent for measuring a degree of oxidative stress. In the general formula (I), R1, R2, R3 and R4 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an ethyl group, an isopropyl group, a hydroxyalkyl group that has 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a phenyl group, and at least one of R1, R2, R3 or R4 represents an isopropyl group, a hydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a phenyl group.
US09126894B2

An electrochemical cell for applications such as electrochemical fuel cells, or electrochemical cell gas sensors used for detection of target gas species in environments containing or susceptible to presence of same. The electrochemical cell utilizes an ionic liquid as an electrolyte medium, thereby achieving a broader range of operational temperatures and conditions, relative to electrochemical cells utilizing propylene carbonate or other conventional electrolytic media.
US09126893B2

An electrochemical cell for applications such as electrochemical fuel cells, or electrochemical cell gas sensors used for detection of target gas species in environments containing or susceptible to presence of same. The electrochemical cell utilizes an ionic liquid as an electrolyte medium, thereby achieving a broader range of operational temperatures and conditions, relative to electrochemical cells utilizing propylene carbonate or other conventional electrolytic media.
US09126889B2

To address the problem of insufficient biodegradability of perfluorinated surfactants, the present invention provides biodegradable fluorosurfactants derived from olefins having —CHR, —CHRf, —CHF, and/or —CH2 groups, where R is an alkyl group and Rf is a perfluoro or fluroroalkyl group. Preferably, the —CHR, —CHRf, —CHF, and/or —CH2 groups are contained within partially fluorinated alkenes.
US09126882B2

Disclosed is a pyrolysis reaction process. The process can be advantageously accomplished using a pyrolysis reactor that has a primary reaction zone comprised of bed packing having multiple passages through the bed packing and a secondary reaction zone having an open flow arrangement. The process includes a step of injecting a pyrolysis feed comprising a first hydrocarbon into the primary reaction zone to produce a primary pyrolysis product containing unsaturated hydrocarbon. A reactive feed comprising a second hydrocarbon is injected into the secondary reaction zone to mix with the primary pyrolysis product and produce a secondary pyrolysis product.
US09126877B2

The present invention is directed to a method for preparing isobutene from a renewable source and their use in the preparation of renewable polymers. The invention also discloses purification of isobutene, selective removal of 1-butene, cis-2-butene and trans-2-butene using microporous adsorbent material, and the oligomerization of the purified liquid isobutene yielding diisobutenes and triisobutenes.
US09126853B2

Disclosed is a fresh water generator for fresh water production, which is effective to prevent a membrane life from becoming worse by suppressing the load on the membrane of a second semi-permeable membrane treatment facility when the concentrated water produced by the treatment of a first semi-permeable membrane treatment facility, and water to be treated with different osmotic pressure there from are mixed and treated with the second semi-permeable membrane treatment facility by the fresh water generator which comprises a means for storing the concentrated water produced from the first semi-permeable membrane treatment facility and water (B) to be treated, which is separately supplied in a storage tank A and a storage tank B in such a manner that the flow rate (mixture ratio) of the concentrated water to the water (B) to be treated is maintained constant, and supplying the concentrated water and the water (B) to be treated from each of the storage tanks to the second semi-permeable membrane treatment facility at a predetermined flow rate in at least a treatment process for treating water (A) to be treated with the first semi-permeable membrane treatment facility so as to obtain fresh water.
US09126851B2

A UV water treatment plant having at least one module which contains a number of elongated UV lamps in a bracket, wherein the lamps are orientated in parallel to one another, wherein a base having at least one guide connected firmly to the base and at least one guide rail connected to the bracket are provided, wherein the guide rail is mounted to be displaceable in the guide.
US09126828B2

The invention relates to carbon nanotube structures containing both single walled and multi walled carbon nanotubes, and methods for preparing same. These carbon nanotube structures include but are not limited to macroscopic two and three dimensional structures of carbon nanotubes such as assemblages, mats, plugs, networks, rigid porous structures, extrudates, etc. The carbon nanotube structures of the present invention have a variety of uses, including but not limited to, porous media for filtration, adsorption, chromatography; electrodes and current collectors for supercapacitors, batteries and fuel cells; catalyst supports, (including electrocatalysis), etc.
US09126827B2

A method for fabricating MEMS device includes providing a silicon substrate. A structural dielectric layer is formed over a first side of the silicon substrate. Structure elements are embedded in the structural dielectric layer. The structure elements include a conductive backplate disposed over the silicon substrate, having venting holes and protrusion structures on top of the conductive backplate; and diaphragm located above the conductive backplate by a distance. A chamber is formed between the diaphragm and the conductive backplate. A cavity is formed in the silicon substrate at a second side. The cavity corresponds to the structure elements. An isotropic etching is performed on a dielectric material of the structural dielectric layer to release the structure elements. A first side of the diaphragm is exposed by the chamber and faces to the protrusion structures of the conductive backplate. A second side of the diaphragm is exposed to an environment space.
US09126824B2

According to one embodiment, an electrical component comprises a substrate, a functional element formed on the substrate, a first layer configured to form a cavity which stores the functional element on the substrate, the first layer having through holes, the first layer having a first recessed portion and a first projecting portion on an upper surface thereof, and the first layer having different film thicknesses in a direction perpendicular to a surface of the substrate, and a second layer formed on the first layer and configured to close the through holes.
US09126820B2

A nozzle including a dispensing path, where the dispensing path is configured such that fluid is dispensable through the dispensing path. The nozzle further includes a suction path, where the suction path is configured such that a negative pressure is created in the suction path when fluid flows through the dispensing path. The nozzle also has a fluid recapture path configured to capture fluid, positioned on an outside of the nozzle, in the recapture path. The fluid recapture path is in fluid communication with the dispensing path and the suction path. In this manner fluid in the fluid recapture path is directable into the dispensing path by the negative pressure in the suction path.
US09126819B2

This invention relates to a kit of parts (1), comprising top plates (2), gable cover plates (3), gable structures each comprising a nozzle boot, side cover plates, and side structures (4) each comprising a nozzle boot (5), which kit of parts (1) is suitable for assembling a nozzle module according to any one of three configurations. The invention also relates to a fuel dispensing unit for refueling vehicles.
US09126817B2

A cartridge discharges paint in a paint chamber from a feed tube by displacing a piston in a tank. A waste liquid adjusting valve located on a downstream side of a waste liquid passage on-off valve and including a throttle passage is provided in a waste liquid passage to be connected to the feed tube. This waste liquid adjusting valve is opened at the time of washing clean the paint chamber and a paint supply passage of the feed tube to widely enlarge the passage cross-sectional area of the waste liquid passage. When paint is replenished into the paint supply passage, the waste liquid adjusting valve uses the throttle passage as a flow passage to narrowly throttle the passage cross-sectional area of the waste liquid passage. The amount of discarded paint which flows out from the feed tube is thereby reduced.
US09126813B2

A device for filling containers, comprising: an upper main element, a lower main element and lateral elements connecting the upper main element and the lower main element; support elements arranged at one another without a continuous drive device, which support elements are continuously run through the device along operating stations and along the main elements and whose interconnection with one another due to a support along at least one lateral element is disengaged, wherein the interconnection of the support elements with one another in the upper main element and/or in the lower main element is maintained over the entire movement path along the top main element and the bottom main element, and wherein the movement of the support elements in the upper main element and/or in the lower main element is acceleratable and deceleratable in a controlled manner with the interconnection of the support elements being maintained.
US09126812B2

The present disclosure relates to a method for determining the admissible load capacity of a crane, in which the load capacity is determined in dependence on at least one first and one second parameter and which comprises a first step, in which the load capacity for the value of the first parameter with different values of the second parameter is determined by calculation or by interpolation or extrapolation on the basis of known values of the load capacity with specific values of the first parameter, and which comprises a second step, in which the determination of the load capacity for the second parameter is performed on the basis of the values of the load capacity determined in the first step for different values of the second parameter by calculation or by interpolation or extrapolation.
US09126811B2

A method (400) for handling a container is disclosed. It can include the steps of: providing (410) a multi-level structure (450) including a plurality of levels (470) including a first level (472) with an opening (474) to receive a container (476) and a second level (478); locating (420) a plurality of shelves (480) adjacent to the opening (474) including a port shelf (482) and a starboard shelf (484), each configured to receive a container (476); and providing (430) a transfer mechanism (530) configured to pick a container (176) and place it on one of the plurality of shelves (480). Advantageously, the method (400) provides enhanced container handling and logistics, and has wide use cases in warehousing, assembly manufacturing, ports and distribution hubs.
US09126809B2

An elevator car has an access opening, a car door for closing the access opening, which door has at least one door panel that can be displaced parallel to the access opening, a thrust crank drive for displacing the at least one door panel between an open position and a closed position, an electric motor for driving the thrust crank drive, and a control device for actuating the electric motor. The control device actuates the electric motor so that a displacement velocity of the at least one door panel is substantially constant over the entire displacement path between the open position and the closed position of the door panel.
US09126803B2

A mechanism for installing a media separation roller 16 includes a roller holder unit 90 and a unit installation part 70 on the conveyance path side. The roller holder unit 90 includes a first holder 100 that supports the retard roller 16, a second holder 110 connected to the first holder 100 pivotably on an axis of holder rotation, and an urging member 130 that urges the first holder 100 to the second holder 110 around the axis of holder rotation. The retard roller 16 and tension spring 130 are removably installable to the unit installation part 70 as a unit. Replacing the retard roller 16 is therefore simple.
US09126801B2

A bobbin includes a bobbin main body including flanges at both ends of a bobbin winder spindle for winding the bobbin thread and an outer flange attached to one of the flanges (a second flange) of the bobbin main body. A gap in which a thread end of the bobbin thread is housed is provided between the outer flange and the flange of the bobbin main body.
US09126800B2

A cable reel/assembly is provided for storing, deploying, retrieving and transporting a cable assembly (having a cable and connectors). The cable reel includes a central hub and two side flanges constructed, in one embodiment, of composite plastic material having reinforcing material(s). An annular rim and spaced apart spoke sections in each side flange function to provide multiple carrying handles. A cable holding means is provided to restrain or hold portion(s) of a cable within an outer periphery of the cable reel. In one embodiment, a secondary hub (and third flange) adjacent the central hub is positioned and disposed within a side periphery defined by the annular rim of one of the side flanges enabling stacking together such that annular rims of respective cable reels may be in close or actual contact.
US09126796B2

There is a disclosure of a system which controls a folding unit performing folding processing to one set of sheets supplied by a print unit. The one set of sheets includes sheets of a first size and/or a second size which is smaller than the first size. The system includes a first controller and second controller. When the one set of sheets includes a sheet of the first size, the first controller inhibits the folding processing to a sheet of the second size. When the one set of sheets does not include a sheet of the first size but includes a sheet of the second size, the second controller permits the folding processing to a sheet of the second size.
US09126794B2

A sheet processing apparatus in which a sheet bundle including a plurality of sheets discharged onto an intermediate processing tray is received in a receiving portion of a stapler and bound with use of a staple, and a sheet bundle including a plurality of sheets discharged onto the intermediate processing tray is received in a receiving portion of a staple-less binding unit having a gap in the thickness direction of the sheets smaller than that of the receiving portion of the stapler and bound without using a staple, wherein when the stapler performs the binding process, the staple-less binding unit is arranged in a position shifted in a width direction orthogonal to a sheet discharge direction from a region on the intermediate processing tray, through which the sheets discharged by a sheet discharging portion pass.
US09126783B2

An image forming apparatus includes a sheet bundle housing unit that houses recording sheets piled as a sheet bundle; a swing member having a sheet contact portion on one end side, and swinging between a projection position at which the sheet contact portion projects above a sheet placement surface of the housing unit and a non-projection position at which the sheet contact portion does not project above the sheet placement surface, the swing member moving from the projection position to the non-projection position by the sheet bundle; a sheet detection unit that detects the sheet bundle in the housing unit using the swing member; and an interlocking mechanism that moves the swing member to the non-projection position, regardless of presence or absence of the sheet bundle in the housing unit, by interlocking with the housing unit being pulled out from an apparatus body.
US09126781B2

A sheet feeder, which is included in an image forming apparatus, includes a sheet bypass member openably closable to one side surface of a body of the image forming apparatus, a pickup roller to feed and convey a sheet loaded on the sheet bypass member, and an arm to hold the pickup roller and to open and close with the pickup roller. The arm includes a contact portion extending in a shape of projection toward an upstream side from the pickup roller in a sheet conveying direction of the sheet bypass member. As the sheet bypass member is rotated upward to be closed and stored to the side surface of the body, the contact portion of the arm contacts the sheet bypass member to rotate the arm upward to cause the sheet bypass member to approach to the side surface of the body.
US09126767B2

The invention provides for apparatus (10) for lifting a conveyor belt (13) supported on a series of idler rollers (19) on a belt conveyor (11), the apparatus (10) comprising a body (4) selectively movable along the belt conveyor (11) and a belt lifting assembly (50) mounted on the body (41) and operable to engage the conveyor belt (13) to lift the belt from, and subsequently lower said belt onto, an idler roller operatively supporting the belt on the conveyor (11).
US09126764B1

A telescoping article retrieval system for rapidly removing articles from a plastic molding machine or other manufacturing process in a way that significantly reduces the cycle time, while consistently maintaining vacuum control of the articles being handled. Two light weight double telescoping tubes are driven by a dual carriage assembly in which power is conveyed to one carriage by means of a servo, belt drive or other mechanism, allowing it to extend and retract. A second belt drive encompasses a first carriage and ties a second carriage to a fixed main beam such that linear movement of the first carriage of the dual carriage assembly a certain distance causes linear movement of the second carriage of the dual carriage assembly and also causes linear movement of the double telescoping tubes a distance equal to twice the distance that the first carriage has moved.
US09126754B2

The present invention relates to a method and system of using at least one moving means (22) for the pushing and moving solid waste (20) from at least one holding area (10) within buildings or outdoors through a waste transport conduit (14) to at least one collection station (28) or at least one collection conduit (26). The movement of the at least one moving means (22) is driven by generating differential pressure across the at least one moving means (22) to push and move the solid waste (20) towards the at least one collection station (28) or at least one collection conduit (26). The differential pressure creates systematic directional air movement inside the waste transport conduit (14) to move the at least one moving means (22) to move and push the solid waste (20) to the at least one collection station (28) or at least one collection conduit (26). The differential pressure is delivered by controlling a system of valves (30) that is connected to at least one higher pressure air conduit (32) and at least one lower pressure air conduit (34) or removes air to or from the waste transport conduit respectively. Both the at least one higher pressure air conduit (32) and at least one lower pressure air conduit (34) is connected to air handling apparatus.
US09126753B2

A container adapted to be lifted by a forklift having a pair of prongs, including a receptacle having a floor, a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of opposed sidewalls, wherein a front edge, a rear edge and side edges of the floor define a perimeter of the floor. A plurality of bolsters is attached to the floor such that each bolster is within the perimeter, each bolster including a lower panel and a pair of sidewalls extending upwardly to the floor and forming a first entry window configured to slidably receive one of the prongs of the forklift. Each bolster is positioned such that its first entry window is accessible from one of the opposed side edges of the floor, and the prongs of the forklift are slidably receivable between a pair of the bolsters from one of the front edge and the rear edge of the floor.
US09126748B2

Apparatus for carrying or covering a beverage container which is adjustable in form. In certain embodiments, apparatus for carrying and/or covering a beverage container which provides insulative properties and which is so structurally designed so as to be capable of being alternately configured to fit a can or a bottle.
US09126747B2

A cooler comprises a body having a bottom edge and at least one handle positioned near the bottom edge of the cooler. The handle may be located below the center of gravity of the cooler or within approximately 2 to 3 inches of the bottom edge of the cooler. The body and the handle may be formed as one-piece and from molded plastic. The handle may also be mounted on a separate handle tray where the tray is secured to the body. A spigot may be provided for dispensing fluid from said body. The body may comprise an insulated wall construction. A removable lid may be used to close the opening. A handle may also be positioned near the top edge.
US09126745B2

A method includes wrapping one or more pieces of fabric around at least one piece of shape memory material. The method also includes attaching outer edges of the one or more pieces of fabric to other portions of the one or more pieces of fabric. The method further includes depositing liquid-impervious material onto the one or more pieces of fabric to form free-standing flexible walls and a floor of a containment structure. The floor is formed seamlessly with the walls. The wrapping could include attaching a bottom of the at least one piece of shape memory material to the one or more pieces of fabric at locations spaced apart from the outer edges of the one or more pieces of fabric. The wrapping could also include attaching sides of the at least one piece of shape memory material to the one or more pieces of fabric.
US09126740B2

A collective vertical tank has a plurality of tanks and stabilizing and weight-distributing connectors. The connectors are adjustable to provide an adjustable footprint of the collective tank. A stabilizing and weight-distributing connector for vertical hydraulic tanks includes a first connecting member attached to a first vertical tank and extending away therefrom, and a second connecting member attached to a second vertical tank and extending away therefrom. The second connecting member defines a central passage adapted to receive the first connecting member therein. A locking mechanism secures the first connecting member within the second connecting member.
US09126732B2

The present invention is directed to a metal locking tie and a metal locking tie tool. The metal locking tie has a tie body, a tie head secured to the tie body, and a roller means disposed in the tie head. The tie head has a bottom, a ceiling, opposing sides, a strap entrance end and a strap exit end that define a strap receiving passageway therethrough. The tie head also includes an angled tool bearing surface at the strap exit end. The metal locking tie tool includes a cutter cap with a cutter and a ball setter. Once the metal locking tie tool has tensioned the metal locking tie, the cutter moves linearly with respect to the cutter cap to set the roller means in the tie head and to provide a flush cut off of the excess tie body from the metal locking tie.
US09126730B1

The recycling receptacle assembly includes a bin containing recyclable materials. A lid is positionable on the bin. A reservoir is coupled to the lid. The reservoir insertably receives a material. The material imparts a weight to the lid. A handle is operationally coupled to the reservoir.
US09126721B2

A pallet skirt for covering a stack of pallets on which product is supported and displayed. The skirt has a shipping configuration wherein the perimeter and height of the skirt are approximately the same as the perimeter and height of the product, and a display configuration in which the perimeter and height of the skirt are expanded to cover the stack of pallets. Pleated folds in two corners of the skirt enable its perimeter to be contracted for the shipping configuration and expanded for the display configuration. A horizontal score in the side walls enables the side walls to be folded to reduce the height of the skirt for the shipping configuration and to be unfolded for the display configuration. A horizontal flange on the top edge of the skirt covers the marginal edge of a pallet on which the product is supported during display.
US09126720B2

The invention disclosed includes various durable containers constructed from sheet materials including a plurality of living hinges. The containers are configured to snap into an assembled position from a relatively flat position by the application of pressure to one or more sidewalls wherein that pressure deforms the one or more sidewalls into a concave position, thereby holding the container into place until the contain is collapsed once again for storage or cleaning.
US09126719B2

A method of using a assembly facilitator for a pulp-molded shell with polymer liner containing systems to precisely create a integral pulp molded shell is disclosed along with the assembly facilitator itself.
US09126715B2

The metallic sealed double container of the present invention includes an outer container, an inner container, an outer lid for the outer container, and an inner lid for the inner container, all of which being formed from thin metallic sheet. Connection holes are formed in the outer lid and the inner lid by burring, and both end parts of thin-walled pipes are respectively connected while inserted in the connection holes. The inner lid is joined to the inner container, and the outer lid is joined to the outer container, thereby constituting a metallic sealed double container in which the inner container is isolated in the outer container. As a result, the weight of the metallic sealed double container is reduced, the temperature in the inner container can be maintained over long periods of time, and the heat-insulating effect of the resulting sealed double container is high.
US09126710B2

A carton includes a top casing and a bottom casing. The top casing includes plural first sidewalls and plural first tongue parts connecting to the first sidewalls. The first tongue stripes parts are used for fixing on the inner surfaces of the adjacent first sidewalls. The bottom casing includes plural second sidewalls and plural second tongue parts connecting to the second sidewalls. The second tongue parts are used for fixing on inner surfaces of the adjacent second sidewalls. The bottom casing further includes plural reinforcing pieces respectively connected to one of the second sidewalls. The reinforcing pieces are disposed at the outside of the second sidewalls. When the top casing is coupled to the bottom casing, the reinforcing pieces are utilized for filling the gap between the top casing and the bottom casing caused by the first tongue parts.
US09126708B2

A device, and related method for controlling the device, for labeling containers with a container conveyor, having at least one container rotation device to rotate a container in a first direction about an axis, in a second direction about this axis in the opposite direction or not to rotate this container, with at least two labeling stations each with a labeling assembly and a pressing-on device, with a control device generating control commands for the container rotation device based on activity information of the labeling stations. In the region of an inactive labeling station, the container rotation device is rotated in the first direction, so that a container of the container rotation device can roll onto the pressing-on device and in the region of an active labeling station, the container device is rotated in the second direction, so that a label applied to the container can be pressed on.
US09126707B2

A sealing unit for sealing and forming a packaging container is disclosed. The sealing unit operates on a principle that the motion of a pair of opposing sealing jaws is controlled by a cam-cam follower interaction combined with the action of a servomotor driving a cam wheel.
US09126706B2

A printer filter packaging apparatus includes a base for supporting a filter having delicate filter media. Side wraps extend from two opposite sides of the base and cover two opposite sides of the filter. A rear wrap includes a handle, and covers a rear and a top of the filter. A front wrap defines a slit for receiving the handle; the front wrap covers the top and a front of the filter. The wrapped or covered filter may be lifted by the handle, the filter being supported by a combination of the base and front, rear, and side wraps.
US09126700B2

The invention uses plurality of forward-looking preview cameras each looking at different nadir angle viewpoint to get cloud information from approaching target areas. The invention uses fuzzy logic system and other decision mechanisms to decide which target images should be acquired in which particular sequence and when the target image acquisition should start. The invention intends to give autonomous decision capability to agile earth observation satellites to make decision on their own to get the highest yield of quality images of target areas.
US09126698B2

This mobile, aircraft engine stand provides mobility and ease of operation by one person. The stand includes a frame, a pair of vertical jack screws vertically mounted on the frame and a precision rail system configured to allow for stable and efficient linear motion. A pair of quick change, engine lifting arms are attached to the pair of vertical jack screws; and an electrical control and control panel make unloading, transporting, assembling and moving an engine a one person operation. A plurality of casters allows for easy swiveling of the stand.
US09126694B2

A method for providing a display to a flight crew of an aircraft includes providing a horizontal navigation display that includes data regarding the movement of the aircraft in a horizontal direction and an aircraft icon indicating a position of the aircraft in the horizontal direction. The method further includes providing a vertical navigation display that includes data regarding the movement of the aircraft in a vertical direction and an aircraft icon indicating a position of the aircraft in the vertical direction. The horizontal and vertical navigation displays are disposed adjacent to one another on a single display device. The method further includes receiving a first input to the display device indicating a selection of the horizontal navigation display aircraft icon, and, in response to the selection of the horizontal navigation display aircraft icon, engaging a horizontal navigation control feature of an autopilot system of the aircraft.
US09126691B2

An access door is provided in a housing for a gas turbine engine, with the access door being movable to an access position independent of any required movement of any cowl door or a fan duct door.
US09126690B2

An aircraft engine nacelle is provided that includes a fixed front frame, a thrust reverser cowling mounted to slide with respect to the front frame between a direct-jet position and a reversed-jet position, a variable-geometry nozzle positioned in a downstream continuation of the reverser cowling, thrust-reversal jacks interposed between the front frame and the thrust-reverser cowling, adaptive nozzle jacks interposed between said thrust reverser cowling and the variable-geometry nozzle, drive shafts mounted on the front frame, transmission shafts extending along the thrust reverser cowling as far as the variable-geometry nozzle jacks, and mechanical means for coupling said transmission shafts to said drive shafts, and means for locking rotation of said transmission shafts before decoupling of the transmission shafts from their respective drive shafts, and when the decoupling is completed.
US09126687B2

An environmental control system having parallel compressors includes a first compressor driven by a first motor, the first compressor being operable for fluidly directing a first flow at a first flow rate through the first compressor. Also included is a second compressor driven by a second motor, the second compressor being operable for fluidly directing a second flow at a second flow rate through the second compressor. Further included is a monitoring component configured to compare the first flow rate to the second flow rate.
US09126677B1

The Curtis Protocol, an aircraft control interface, is provided. The Curtis Protocol standardizes the division and selection of aircraft flight regimes and flight modes within the selected flight regime.
US09126676B2

An electromechanical portion of the control stick includes a two-axis gimbal, with each axis including a mechanical gimbal structure supported by rolling element bearings, cam based centering mechanisms, linkages to connect a geared power-drive including a resolver commutated brushless DC motor and compound-planetary gearhead to provide active force feedback, and several electrically independent RVDT position sensors. The gearing architecture uses a fixed-cage, rotating internal gear arrangement on a planetary gearhead, which may be single or multi-stage. The output torque of the gearhead is provided by a feature on the outer housing of the rotating internal ring gear, allowing an axial placement of the entire power-drive in a more central location, reducing the moment load on the gearhead output cage bearings, and facilitating a compact drive arrangement of the gimbal using linkages. Additionally, a common power-drive can be used for both the roll and pitch axes.
US09126669B2

Lighter-than-air systems, methods, and kits for obtaining aerial images are described. For example, various methods for determining planned ascent, drift, and/or descent of a lighter-than-air system are described. In addition, various structural arrangements of lighter-than-air systems for accomplishing planned ascent, drift, and/or descent and obtaining aerial images are described.
US09126666B2

An outboard motor for a marine vessel application, transmission devices for such an outboard motor, and related methods of making, operating, and modifying attributes of same, are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the motor includes a horizontal-crankshaft engine in an upper portion of the motor, positioned substantially above a trimming axis of the motor. In at least another embodiment, first, second and third transmission devices are employed to transmit rotational power from the engine to propeller(s). In at least a further embodiment, the motor is made to include a rigid interior assembly formed by the engine, multiple transmission devices, and a further structural component. In further embodiments, the motor includes numerous cooling, exhaust, and/or oil system components, and/or other transmission features. In at least some additional embodiments, a transmission device of the motor is configured to facilitate gear ratio variation and/or includes an integrated oil pump.
US09126659B2

A self-aligning fairlead latch device is provided for guiding and securing an anchor chain between an offshore structure and an anchor. The fairlead latch device includes a latch housing pivotally mounted to a fairlead housing. The latch housing includes one or more latches for securing the anchor chain in place. The fairlead latch device further includes an upper retainer component that is coupled to an upper support structure and a lower support structure. The coupling of the upper retainer component to the support structures allow the fairlead latch device to be relocated by lifting of the device from the support structures.
US09126656B2

A bottom trim member secures a curved sheet element such as a windshield or the like on a surface. The bottom trim member includes a bottom trim extrusion having a connecting leg affixable to the curved sheet element and a gasket receiving leg. A gasket is disposed in engagement with the gasket receiving leg, where the gasket is shaped such that the bottom trim extrusion is positionable in multiple orientations relative to the surface and such that the gasket maintains a sealing engagement in any of the bottom trim extrusion multiple orientations. A securing member is affixable to the surface and cooperable with the bottom trim extrusion to secure the bottom trim extrusion to the surface in any one of the bottom trim extrusion multiple orientations.
US09126655B2

An inflatable shallow draft fishing boat having a removable, inflatable paddleboard floor that provides stable flotation for at least two standing adults, the boat also including an adjustable, detachable rowing frame. The boat can be maneuvered and propelled by oars, a push pole or a small motor. The detachable rowing frame may hold a cooler seat and may also serve as an elevated push poling platform. The rowing frame allows the rower to switch his rowing position from facing the stern (for best speed) or face the bow (for better visibility when searching for fish). The paddleboard floor may be held in place by frictional engagement when the boat and the paddleboard are inflated; alternatively, the paddleboard may be removed and function independently as a stand-up paddleboard that can be used for fishing, swimming, or similar recreational water sports.
US09126651B2

A bicycle suspension adjustor is provided with a rotational input member, an axial output member and a rotation-to-axial movement converting structure. The rotation-to-axial movement converting structure includes a first converting member operatively coupled to a rotational input member and a second converting member facing the first converting member. At least one rolling member is operatively disposed between the first and second converting members. One of the converting members is operatively coupled to an axial output member. The rolling member is in rolling contact with the first and second converting members so that the rolling member induces relative displacement with respect to both of the first and second converting members as the rotational input member rotates the first converting member in response to a rotational movement of the rotational input member.
US09126648B2

A fuel tank assembly includes a fuel tank disposed substantially along a seat rail in a space surrounded by a lower portion of a seat and the seat rail of a motorcycle, and a fuel pump unit disposed in a lower portion of the fuel tank. A mounting flange for mounting the fuel pump unit to the fuel tank is arranged below the seat rail and forward of a front end of a rear wheel of the motorcycle as viewed in a side view of the motorcycle. The mounting flange of the fuel pump unit is disposed above a side frame of a body frame of the motorcycle. Such fuel tank assembly provides the degree of freedom of seat layout, and does not interfere with a rear wheel of motorcycle, or gravel or the like thrown up by the rear wheel, during operation the motorcycle.
US09126643B2

A center pillar (3) has a pipe structure having a hollow space (3a). In the center pillar (3), a lower end opening (3c) for connecting the hollow space (3a) to an outdoor space and an upper end opening (3b) for connecting the hollow space (3a) to an indoor space (10) are formed. The lower end opening (3c) and the upper end opening (3b) are arranged at a prescribed distance from each other in a longitudinal direction of the center pillar (3). Thus, a cab for work vehicle and a work vehicle capable of preventing dust, water, or the like from entering the cab and realizing an environment in the cab comfortable for an operator are obtained.
US09126638B2

A drag reducing apparatus is provided for use with vehicles having surfaces that are not streamlined. The apparatus includes an exterior cover that forms a drag reducing shape when the apparatus is fully extended. The apparatus can be retracted to a space saving configuration. A scissors linkage extends and retracts the apparatus. The scissors linkage can be motorized, and the motor can extend the scissors linkage by turning in a first direction and can retract the apparatus by turning in a second direction. The scissors linkage can hold the exterior cover taut when the apparatus is fully extended. The scissors linkage can support the exterior cover at intermediate locations when the apparatus is not fully extended. The apparatus can include support linkages and intermediate moveable members that support the exterior cover and define the drag reducing shape.
US09126637B2

A motor vehicle rear (10) has left and right longitudinal members (12) forming a supporting structure of the motor vehicle. A receiving housing (18) is arranged between the longitudinal members (12) for receiving a traction battery. The receiving housing (18) has a left and right side walls (22, 24) running in the forward direction of travel. A back wall (20) is connected to the left and right side walls (22) and running transverse to the forward direction of travel. An impact profile (26) is connected to the left and right longitudinal members (12, 14) and absorbs impact energy in the event of a rear crash. Left and right reinforcing elements (32 34) connect the impact profile (26) to the respective left and right side walls (22, 24) for reinforcing the impact profile (26) and conducting away some of the impact energy into the left and right side walls (22, 24).
US09126636B2

A tibia pad has: a right foot placement portion having a right side horizontal portion formed horizontally and on which a passenger's right heel is placed, and a right side inclined portion formed at a vehicle front side of this right side horizontal portion and inclined with respect to a vehicle longitudinal direction to head toward a vehicle upper side while heading toward a vehicle front side; a pair of groove portions formed, at least in a bottom surface of the right side horizontal portion at the right foot placement portion, to extend along the vehicle longitudinal direction and to lined-up in a vehicle transverse direction; and a step portion formed at a transition portion between the right side horizontal and the right side inclined portions, and positioned between a rear and a front side ribs are formed at the right side horizontal and the right side inclined portions, respectively.
US09126632B2

A vehicle body top structure for enhancing the rigidity and strength of the intersections of side rails and a front rail. The vehicle body top structure is provided with left and right side rails provided so as to extend in the front-and-rear direction at the top part of a vehicle body side part, and a front rail extending left and right, one end part of which is joined to the left side rail, and the other end of which is joined to the right side rail. Thin-plate parts having a smaller plate thickness than thick-plate parts and thick-plate parts are disclosed at the one end and the other end of the front rail. The thin-plate parts are each connected to the left and right side rails.
US09126620B2

An electric power steering system includes: an assist motor that generate assist force for assisting steering of a steering member; a motor drive circuit that controls driving of the assist motor; a capacitor that is electrically connected to a main power supply that supplies electric power to the assist motor, the motor drive circuit, and electrical components; and a controller that controls charging and discharging of the capacitor. The controller discharges electricity to the electrical components when an amount of electric charge remaining in the auxiliary power supply is equal to or greater than a first threshold value in an engine start-up period in a vehicle.
US09126614B2

The present invention relates to a shopping cart of the types used by shoppers in supermarkets and/or self-service stores or shops and of the types stored by being horizontally fitted into one another, which has several improved maneuverability and handling features and which basically comprises a basket (1) formed by a bottom (2) and four vertical side faces, one of which is a vertically swingable face (3) for the purpose of facilitating the horizontal fitting of another cart, a frame fixed to the bottom (2) of the basket (1) comprising four legs (6), each of which in turn comprises at least one wheel (7), and a perimetral handle (5) extending along the entire perimeter of the upper edge of the basket (1).
US09126609B2

A system includes a timing determination module configured to be disposed onboard an approaching vehicle system during travel of the approaching vehicle system along a first route toward a crossing between the first route and a second route. The timing determination module is configured to determine one or more arrival times of the approaching vehicle system to reach the crossing and to repeatedly communicate notification messages having the one or more arrival times to a remote crossing system that is configured to activate one or more warning devices disposed at or near the crossing to notify other vehicles on the second route that the approaching vehicle system is approaching the crossing along the first route. The timing determination module is configured to determine the one or more arrival times at different respective locations along the first route as the approaching vehicle system travels toward the crossing.
US09126606B2

In a method for operating a switching hump yard, at least one value for an entry speed into a first retarder is ascertained for the respective cuts in the form of rolling cars or car groups for the first retarder on the basis of a target release speed from the first retarder. At least one value for a release speed from a second retarder that lies uphill relative to the first retarder is determined for the second retarder on the basis of the ascertained at least one value for the entry speed into the first retarder. The second retarder is controlled taking into account the determined at least one value for the release speed. I also describe a control device for controlling a hump yard.
US09126604B2

A longitudinally reinforced railway vehicle includes a body, longitudinal girders, cross-girders, and reinforced carriage ends. Reinforcement tubes which are guided within recesses of the cross-girders are arranged in the longitudinal direction between the reinforced carriage ends.
US09126602B2

There is provided a roof for a vehicle where each one of its right and left side wall has at least a first and a second door opening. The roof structure comprises a lattice structure and an outer shell. The lattice structure has two pairs of longitudinal segments adapted to be located at a top portion of the first and second door openings and two diagonal segments. One diagonal segment extends from a first longitudinal segment adapted to be located at the first door opening in the right wall to a second longitudinal segment adapted to be located at the second door opening in the opposite wall. The other diagonal segment extends from a first longitudinal segment adapted to be located at the first door opening in the left wall to a second longitudinal segment adapted to be located at the second door opening in the opposite wall. The outer shell is placed atop the lattice structure and extends from a region proximate the front end to a region proximate the rear end of the vehicle.
US09126601B2

A vehicle network system is configured such that a plurality of ECUs that allow internal data to be modified are connected to a network so as to be communicable with one another. The system determines whether the internal data of a first ECU has been modified on the basis of a comparison between combined data and a check value. The combined data is created by collecting and combining pieces of split data, split from original data generated on the basis of the internal data of the first ECU and distributed and held in the plurality of ECUs. The check value is generated on the basis of internal data held in the first ECU at each point in time.
US09126592B2

A powertrain system is configured to transfer propulsion torque to a driveline of a vehicle. A method for controlling the powertrain system includes determining a magnitude of unintended vehicle motion based upon a difference between a change in actual vehicle acceleration and a change in an operator-intended vehicle acceleration. Propulsion torque to the driveline is limited when a fault associated with unintended vehicle motion is detected and the magnitude of unintended vehicle motion is less than a predetermined first threshold.
US09126591B2

A vehicle is provided with a powertrain including an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, and a turbocharger. The vehicle further includes a controller programmed to apply a variable filter to engine torque commands that are responsive to driver demand. The filter affects commands having a rate of increase greater than a predetermined threshold such that corresponding rates of increase in both engine torque and turbocharger speed are limited to respective rates less than the maximum available levels in order to reduce a surge in engine output emissions. The controller additionally issues commands for motor torque such that overall powertrain torque satisfies the driver demand.
US09126590B2

A method is provided for adapting the torque that can be transmitted by a clutch of a motor vehicle that has an internal combustion engine and an electric motor for driving. A pressure medium activation device is driven by an actuator and has a pressure medium link between a master cylinder and a slave cylinder for activating the clutch. An adaptation of the torque that can be transmitted by the clutch takes place in a disengaged clutch position and a change in the actuator position a given pressure of the pressure medium activation device is used to adapt the actuator position or the clutch characteristic curve.
US09126589B2

This transmission include an input shaft to which power is input from an internal combustion engine and an output shaft to which power is input from an electric motor. This transmission has a gear stage (EV) for EV travel (different from the neutral) in which no power transmission system is established between the input and output shafts, and a plurality of gear stages (1-st to 5-th) for HV travel in which a power transmission system is established between the input and output shafts. “1-st” is used in place of “EV” so as to start a vehicle only when EV travel cannot be performed normally. On an H pattern, a “shift completion position for EV” is disposed at a position through which a shift operation member passes during a “shift operation” (operation in the front-rear direction of the vehicle) from a “1-2 selection position” to a “shift completion position for 1-st.”
US09126583B2

A control device for a hybrid vehicle has an engine, a motor configured to output a driving force of the vehicle and performing a startup of the engine, a first engagement element interposed between the engine and the motor that selectively connects and releases the engine and the motor, a second engagement element interposed between the motor and a driving wheel that selectively engages and releases the motor and the driving wheel, a driving force transmission system load detecting device that either detects or estimates a load of the driving force transmission system, and an engine/motor slip drive control unit that slip engages the first engagement element with the engine maintaining in rotating state at a predetermined rotation speed, and slip engages the second engagement element with the motor at a rotation speed lower than the predetermined rotation speed.
US09126579B1

A control system for use in a vehicle having left and right clutch assemblies, each clutch assembly including a brake mechanism and a drive mechanism. The control system includes a steering switch having a left steering position to actuate the left brake mechanism and the right drive mechanism, a neutral steering position to actuate the left and right drive mechanisms, and a right steering position to actuate the left drive mechanism and the right brake mechanism. The system may also include an operator switch having a first position to actuate brake mechanisms and disable the steering switch, and a second position that passes control of both brake clutch assemblies to the steering switch. The system may further include a brake switch having a brake position that actuates both brake mechanisms and disables the operator switch and the steering switch, and a drive position that passes control of both clutch assemblies to the operator switch.
US09126560B2

A vehicle side air bag apparatus includes: a bag that is housed within a side portion outside in a seat back in a vehicle width direction and inflates and expands to a vehicle front side of the side portion by supplying gas; an up-down partition that partitions the bag into lower and upper bag portions; a right-left partition which partitions the lower bag portion into left and right chambers, to which a right-left communication port is provided and which inhibits inflation of the lower bag portion in an upper and lower direction by being extended in the inflation and expansion state; an inflator provided in the upper bag portion; and a flow regulating portion that distributes gas into one of the left and right chambers and the upper bag portion and limits gas flow from the one chambers to the upper bag portion by a check valve portion.
US09126557B2

A childcare device is configured to receive a child. The device includes a child-restraint harness including first and second shoulder straps and inflatable elements associated with each shoulder strap.
US09126554B2

The patron restraint system for amusement rides includes a locking receiver with a locking assembly for engaging a restraining strap. The engagement of the restraining strap in the locking receiver can be verified by a ride operator by visual or physical inspection, or by a sensor system indicating the locked or unlocked state of the locking receiver. A latching ratchet mechanism may be provided in the receiver to restrict movement of the restraining strap until it is released by the ride operator. The sensor system includes an acoustic sensor that detects alignment of an aperture with a piezoelectric acoustic emitter and an acoustic detector.
US09126550B2

A vehicle frame assembly is provided comprising a main rail. The vehicle frame assembly also includes a deflector assembly which has a front member having an inboard end pivotally coupled to the main rail and an outboard end. Moreover, the deflector assembly includes a rear member having an inboard end slidably coupled to the main rail and an outboard end pivotally coupled to the outboard end of the front member. Additionally, a tension member is disposed between the inboard ends of the front member and the rear member. The deflector assembly is operable between a normal use position wherein the tension member is slack and a collision position wherein the tension member is taut.
US09126548B1

A motor vehicle such as an automobile includes a passenger seat and toilet system that includes a metal frame, a seat portion, a seat back and console adjacent to and slightly above the seat portion with a plurality of switches disposed in the console for activating a toilet system. The toilet system includes a privacy curtain and track way extendable around the seat and is integral with the passenger seat. The toilet system includes a toilet bowl, a waste disposal opening in a bottom portion thereof and is activatable by a number of push button switches. The system includes a remote water tank separate from the vehicle cooling system and an electric pump and hose for connecting the water tank to a nozzle for spraying water onto the toilet bowl and individuals sitting on the toilet. The system also includes a waste disposal drawer, a container positioned below the toilet bowl for receiving waste and a heavy duty plastic bag with a closure cord for receiving the waste and water.
US09126543B1

A vehicle interior structure includes a main body, a first side trim panel and a top finisher panel. The main body has a first side defining a plurality of first side attachment portions. The first side trim panel at least partially covers the first side of the main body and has a plurality of first panel attachment portions attached to the first side attachment portions of the main body. The first side trim panel also includes at least one first projection spaced apart from the first panel attachment portions and located adjacent to the upper end of the main body, the at least one first projection having an aperture. The top finisher panel covers the upper end of the main body and has at least one downwardly extending second projection that extends into the aperture of the at least one first projection retaining the first side trim panel in position.
US09126541B2

A multi-panel cover includes end panels that connect first and second lateral panels. The lateral panels fit against the end and under the bed of a truck body and tailgate and are maintained in position by magnets incorporated into the seams along the edges and between the panels to collect debris that will otherwise escape through or around the tailgate of the vehicle.
US09126539B2

A load-carrying device may be configured for use with a crossbar mounted to a vehicle roof. The load-carrying device may include a body having a load-bearing surface and an arm pivotably mounted to the body. The arm of the device may be pivotable between a collapsed position and an in-use position. A proximal end of the arm may be operatively connected to the body, and may move toward one end of the body when the arm is pivoted from the collapsed position to the in-use position.
US09126533B2

A driving support device uses a camera mounted on a vehicle for imaging a blind spot area created by a pillar of the vehicle and displays an image taken by the camera on the interior surface of the pillar. A virtual plane passing through boundaries of the blind spot area is set, and an image plane of the camera is set at a predetermined position where a non-displayed area or an excess area, created by deviation between the virtual plane and the image plane of the camera, is reduced. Image data input from the camera is subjected to coordinate transformation on the virtual plane, and an image corresponding to the blind spot area created by the pillar is displayed on the interior surface of the pillar, based on the image data subjected to coordinate transformation on the virtual plane.
US09126519B2

The invention relates to a vehicle seat for open or semi-open motorized recreational vehicles, such as riding mowers, golf carts, buggies or the like, in which a seat part and a backrest are formed together in one piece, wherein the seat part and the backrest have a common base structure and at least one net-like fabric stretched over the latter and the net-like fabric is formed as a possible contact face for a person who is sitting on the seat, wherein the net-like fabric is weatherproof and is designed in such a way that it is more extensible in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle seat than in a width-wise direction of the vehicle seat.
US09126518B2

A vehicle seat frame (10) includes a plurality of frame components (16, 40, 42, 50, 60, 62, 64). At least one of the frame components (16, 40, 42, 50, 60, 62, 64) is fixedly connected to another of the frame components (16, 40, 42, 50, 60, 62, 64), defining a fixed joint (84, 86, 88, 90). In each fixed joint (84, 86, 88, 90), one of the frame components (16, 40, 42, 50, 60, 62, 64) is connected to another of the frame components (16, 40, 42, 50, 60, 62, 64) only by at least one of structural adhesive, a fastener (72, 74), and a fixed swaged joint (76).
US09126517B2

A vehicle seat includes, at each side portion of a seatback frame, a side frame base portion that forms a side portion of the seatback frame, and that extends in a seat up-and-down direction; an outer side flange portion that is formed at a seat forward side of the side frame base portion, and that is inflected to a seat width direction outer side from the side frame base portion; and an inner side flange portion that is formed at a seat rear side of the side frame base portion, and that is inflected to a seat width direction inner side from the side frame base portion, a corner portion of the inner side flange portion curving in a circular arc shape.
US09126513B2

A headrest moving device which includes a press member, a moving unit that is moved horizontally by the press member, a return spring that functions to return the moving unit to an original position, a screw, a block that is provided with threads in the inner circumferential surface thereof and is engaged with the screw through a screw type engagement, a locking unit that selectively releases the block from a locked state in response to a movement of the moving unit, and a frame that is installed on a stay rod and supports the moving unit, in which either one of the screw and the block can be rotated so that the device can control the position of a headrest steplessly in forward and backward directions.
US09126509B2

This invention has for object an automobile seat (1) for children, intended to be integral with the seat of a motor vehicle, of the so-called group 1/2/3 type, comprising a seat (2) and a seatback (3), said automobile seat offering two separate guide paths for a safety belt of said vehicle intended to maintain said seat and/or said child, respectively according to whether said seat is used in a so-called group 1 position or in a so-called group 2/3 position. The seat includes means for determining the position, group 1 or group 2/3, wherein said seat is located, and at least one passage indicator (53; 54; 57) of a strap of said safety belt of the vehicle able to have two different states, an active state and an inactive state, according to information and/or an action delivered by said means for determining the position.
US09126499B2

An electric vehicle running control system is provided. The electric vehicle running control system comprises: a heating circuit (11); a load capacitor (C12); a switchgear (20) connected with the heating circuit (11) and the load capacitor (C12) respectively; and a switch control module (200) connected with the switchgear (20) for controlling the switchgear (20) to switch off when the heating circuit (11) is connected with an in-vehicle battery (5) to form a heating loop for heating the in-vehicle battery (5).
US09126493B2

A power supply control device including: traffic information acquisition means for acquiring traffic information for roads in the vicinity of the charging station; and control means for controlling an amount of power which is to be supplied to the charging station based on the traffic information (particularly, a traffic flow of vehicles having possibility of using the charging station) acquired by the traffic information acquisition means. An information provision device including: charging station information acquisition means for acquiring information on charging stations; traffic-flow acquisition means for acquiring a traffic flow of vehicles using external electrical energy in the vicinity of each charging station on which the information is acquired by the charging station information acquisition means; and charging station determination means for determining a charging station on which the information is to be provided among the charging station based on the traffic flow acquired by the traffic-flow acquisition means.
US09126487B2

A hoverboard is described. The hoverboard includes four hover engines each including a motor. The motor rotates an arrangement of magnets to induce eddy currents and generate magnetic lift which causes the hoverboard to hover in the air. The hoverboard can be tilted to propel it in a particular direction. The hover engines can each be coupled to a tilt mechanism which is coupled to a flexible rider platform. When rider platform is flexed via rider induced forces, the hover engines can be tilted individually to provide translational forces.
US09126481B2

In a motor vehicle with an adjustable coupling (intermediate device) between the (crank)shaft and floor contact elements (wheels), wherein the coupling is set in trailing throttle mode in such a way that the rotational speed of the shaft is reduced, in particular is adjusted to a predefined value, in order to reduce the internal losses of the drive, in particular an internal combustion engine.
US09126476B2

An in-wheel motor drive assembly (11) includes a motor unit that drivingly rotates a motor-side rotating member, a speed reduction unit that reduces the rotational speed of the motor-side rotating member and transmits the reduced rotation to a wheel-side rotating member, a wheel hub (26) that is fixedly coupled to the wheel-side rotating member, a wheel hub bearing that rotatably supports the wheel hub (26), a casing (12) that covers the motor unit, the speed reduction unit, and the wheel hub bearing, a plurality of sensors (43) that are mounted on the casing (12) and capable of detecting strain generated in the casing (12), and a signal processor (46) that calculates load imposed on a wheel on the basis of strain signals output from the sensors (43).
US09126475B2

An automobile cover is provided. The cover includes an inner sheet, an outer sheet and an insulating material in between. The cover is sectioned into a plurality of panels. The plurality of panels may include at least a front panel sized to cover a windshield of the automobile, a top panel sized to cover a top of the automobile, side panels and a rear panel sized to cover the rear windshield of the automobile. The front panel is joined to the top panel by a seam and the top panel is joined to the rear panel by a seam. The inner and outer sheets may be made of breathable water proof or water resistant fabric. The seams of the present invention allow for easy opening and folding of the cover.
US09126467B2

A variable damping force member is used in a vehicle suspension device and the damping force of which can be changed. The variable damping force member is equipped with a piston which is slidably housed in a cylinder filled with a fluid and which divides the cylinder into a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber, and has fluid passages connecting the first and second fluid passages. A valve member is provided in the piston for blocking the fluid passages, and for opening the fluid passages when the piston slides. A piezoelectric body is connected to the valve member, and pushes the valve member towards the fluid passages when voltage is applied. A bellows is arranged on the valve member so as to seal the piezoelectric body from the fluid, and the bellows biases the piston in the direction in which the piezoelectric body is constricted.
US09126466B1

The present invention is directed to a support plate for a trailer hitch. The plate has an upper surface adapted to receive at least a portion of a base of a trailer hitch assembly thereon and a lower surface adapted to rest on a loading surface of a pickup truck. The plate may have a longitudinal trough formed therein and the trough may be sized to fit between ridges formed in the loading surface. The invention is designed to transfer downward forces from the trailer hitch assembly to the areas of the truck bed between the ridges to help prevent the hitch assembly from smashing or denting the ridges.
US09126455B1

A directional locking caster convertible between a locked position and an unlocked position by application of a lateral force. Also disclosed are transport devices including the caster. Additionally, a transport device including a directional locking caster that is convertible from a locked position to an unlocked position via a cable release.
US09126440B1

Systems and methods for an Automated Document Factory (ADF) system configured to print a web in a 4-up format and to handle the web with 2-up post-print equipment. One embodiment is an apparatus that includes a post-print system. The post-print system receives a web of media printed in an N-up format where N is three or more. The post-print system includes a cutting unit that cuts the web along a length to form segments. A first segment includes documents printed in a 2-up format. The post-print system also includes a 2-up handler that receives the first segment, reads an instruction printed on the first segment that includes handling information for the documents printed on the first segment, and processes the documents printed on the first segment based on the handling information.
US09126432B2

A lighting module has an array of solid state light emitters, a package in which the array of solid state light emitters resides, the package having a window and an external optical element arranged adjacent the window, the external optical element having a coating, the coating forming an optical pattern when illuminated by light from the array of solid state light emitters.
US09126430B2

An inkjet printer applies a layer of a hydrophilic composition, which includes a liquid carrier and an absorption agent, to an image receiving surface of an indirect image receiving member. A dryer in the printer removes a portion of the liquid carrier from the layer of hydrophilic composition to form a dried layer of an absorption agent on the image receiving surface and an aqueous ink image is formed on the dried layer. The aqueous ink image and at least a portion of the dried layer are transferred to a surface of a print medium as the aqueous ink image and print medium move through a transfix nip formed between the indirect image receiving member and a transfix member.
US09126429B2

An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit to form an image on a recording medium and a treatment-liquid application device to apply a treatment liquid to the medium. The application device includes a conveyance roller to convey the medium, an application roller to apply the liquid to the medium, a squeeze roller to spread the liquid on the application roller to form a thin layer of the liquid on the application roller, and a housing member to retain the application roller and the squeeze roller within the housing member and cover outer circumferential surfaces of the application roller and the squeeze roller. The housing member has an opening to contact the application roller with the conveyance roller through the opening and a storage portion to store the liquid. The housing member is rotatable while retaining the application roller and the conveyance roller within the housing member.
US09126428B2

A mark detection method includes a first step for acquiring a signal that is outputted from a detector configured to output a signal of a first level when a detection value is equal to or more than a first threshold value and output a signal of a second level different from the first level when the detection value is less than the first threshold value, while a state of a web is being detected using the detector, a second step for acquiring conveyance information indicative of a state of conveyance of the web, and a third step for determining whether or not to count the signal of the second level outputted by the detector based on the conveyance information.
US09126416B2

In one example, a fluid cartridge for an inkjet type liquid dispensing device includes a housing having a chamber therein for holding a liquid, a vent through which air may enter the chamber, and an outlet through which liquid may pass from the chamber out of the housing. A capillary material is disposed in the chamber between the vent and the outlet so that, when the capillary material is sufficiently depleted of liquid, the capillary material forms an airway from the vent to the outlet. The outlet configured to cause an abrupt break in a liquid connection in the outlet as air enters the outlet through the capillary material.
US09126414B2

An ink supply apparatus includes an ink filling port, an ink storage section, an ink flow path, a displacement section, an ink supply port, and a sealing structure. The ink storage section is communicated with the ink filling port to store the ink. The ink flow path is communicated with the ink storage section. The displacement section defines a portion of the ink flow path, and configured and arranged to be displaced according to internal pressure in the ink flow path so as to be detected by the printer. The ink supply port is communicated with the ink flow path to supply the ink from the ink flow path to the printer. The sealing structure seals an inner section of the ink flow path at least in a low ink remaining amount state where a remaining amount of the ink is a predetermined amount or less.
US09126411B2

A fluid-jet precision-dispensing device includes a layer, one or more first holes within the layer, and one or more second holes within the layer. The first holes are adapted to pass fluid therethrough during usage of the device to precisely dispense the fluid at accurately specified locations. The second holes are adapted to not pass the fluid therethrough during usage of the device to precisely dispense the fluid at the accurately specified locations. The second holes may be adapted to at least substantially maximally pass gaseous bubbles therethrough during performance of a priming operation of the device. The second holes may be adapted to at least substantially maximally pass sludge and/or contaminants therethrough during performance of the priming operation of the device.
US09126398B2

A screen printer 100 for paste material printing is disclosed herein. In a described embodiment, the screen printer 100 comprises a printing chamber 104; and a plurality of support members in the form of lifting tables 114, 116 arranged adjacent to one another along a single conveying path for individually supporting a respective PCB 202, 240 in the printing chamber 104. The screen printer 100 further includes a stencil 120 having a plurality of print patterns 124, 126 with each print pattern 124, 126 arranged adjacent to another print pattern to correspond to the positions of the lifting tables 114, 116 with each print pattern 124, 126 corresponding to a desired paste pattern to be printed onto the PCBs. The screen printer 100 also includes a paste printer arranged to print paste material on the at least one substrate using at least one of the print patterns. A screen printing method is also disclosed.
US09126396B2

Disclosed is a printing device comprising a collimation layer disposed between a display screen and a sheet of instant film. The printing device quickly and compactly prints the display screen contents to the instant film, using a collimation layer that may be embedded in an opaque ribbon and drawn across the instant film. The collimation layer blocks any light not parallel to the normal vector of the display screen, thereby eliminating the need for traditional lenses to focus light. This in turn allows the printing device to yield high resolution photos with very short printing timeframes.
US09126389B2

Articles comprising multilayer coextruded films having polyester and polyamide layers adhered with a copolymer of polyester and a sulfonic acid or its derivative, having high oxygen barrier properties and temperature resistance that are capable of being heated to 425° F. in a conventional oven are disclosed. The articles are packages, such as bags, pouches, and casings that are particularly useful for packaging and cooking foodstuffs such as meat, poultry, seafood and the like.
US09126388B2

Devices and methods are contemplated in which a plurality of microfractures are generated on the surface of an article to so generate a non-abrasive surface having a COF of at least 0.6. Most preferably, the surface is the surface of a transparent polymer and is the surface is structured to allow high-resolution display of an image that is disposed on a surface opposite the surface with the microfractures. Consequently, numerous anti-slip products with such surfaces are contemplated.
US09126381B2

A corrugated box making machine has a vacuum transfer mechanism for moving corrugated boards along a path of conveyance including stations having printing and die cutter mechanisms which operate on the boards. The printing mechanisms include a print and impression cylinder, the latter being mounted in a vacuum housing that also holds drive rolls for moving the boards along the path during which the boards are held against the rolls by vacuum in the housing. The latter is movable substantially above the print cylinder to provide convenient access for maintenance of the print cylinder or replacement of its printing plates.
US09126380B2

A case erector system comprises a track, a mounting assembly slidably affixed to the track, a picker and erector assembly removably and reversibly affixed to the mounting assembly, an erector arm in the picker and erector assembly configured to engage a first side of a case, and a picker arm in the picker and erector assembly configured to engage a second side of the case, wherein the erector arm is configured to move to a position generally transverse to the picker arm while both the picker arm and erector arm engage the case unit.
US09126352B2

A blender has a mixing chamber for reception of materials to be blended. A mixing screw is mounted at a bottom of the mixing chamber for mixing materials within the mixing chamber and delivering mixed materials to an outlet feeding a processing line. A baffle is mounted at the outlet extending about the mixing screw. The baffle inhibits upward movement of material at the outlet tending to cram material into the outlet.
US09126341B1

System and method to predict maintenance windows, initiate and avoid cleaning cycles of robotic systems that clean solar panels. Using learning algorithms, the system and method is based on collecting, monitoring and conducting trend analysis from data received by the various robotic systems that effect the cleaning cycles, external sensors, sources and feeds.
US09126339B2

An actuator main body mounted on an operating bench includes a main body base end housing fixed to the operating bench, an elongated spindle guide section having its base end connected with the main body base end housing, a distal end member fitted to a front end thereof for alteration in attitude, and a tool rotatably provided in the distal end member. Within the spindle guide section, a rotary shaft for transmitting a rotation of a tool rotation drive source to the tool and an attitude altering member for altering the attitude of the distal end member are provided. Within the main body base end housing, an attitude altering drive mechanism for selectively advancing or retracting the attitude altering member when driven by an attitude altering drive source is provided.
US09126334B2

A robot system is provided, which includes a robot having an operable operation arm, an attachment detector for detecting one or more attachments, each attached to a wearing article equipped by a movable body, and a motion-control changer for changing a motion control of the robot based on a detection result detected by the attachment detector.
US09126323B2

A device for treating a target, such as cleaning a window. The device has a handle and head, mounted in pivotal relationship to each other. When the head is placed in sliding, contacting relationship with the target surface the handle can pivot relative to the head for the ergonomic convenience of the user.
US09126317B2

A system, and a method of using a system, for controlled tool operation. The method includes providing a tool used in a force application such as a such torque application. The tool communicates with a controller which can communicate with the tool, and to a display in communication with the tool and the controller. The controller can be programmed with operational information about a tool operation. Information related to the operational information is displayed to a user during use. Service information including at least information about an amount of force applied during use is recorded and stored in the controller. Also disclosed is a computerized system for controlled tool operation which sends operational instructions to the tool before use and retrieves service information from the tool after use.
US09126311B2

One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for an arrow extractor. The arrow extractor can comprise a first and a second elongated lever that are in rotatable engagement with each other. The respective elongated levers comprise a first end configured to be manipulated by a user, and a second end that comprises a tool configured to engage a first and second part of a gripper. The gripper comprises an elongated cavity that can be configured to grip the shaft of an arrow. The first tool and the second tool are engaged with the gripper, and when the user applies a grasping force to the first end of the respective levers, the grasping force may also applied to the gripper, thereby gripping the shaft of the arrow, which may then be extracted from an object using the levers.
US09126301B2

In a method and a machine tool for machining metallic workpieces, a cooling device is provided to supply a cryogenic coolant to a first tool and a precooling device is provided to supply the cryogenic coolant to a second tool. The first tool is held in a first chuck and processes a workpiece, with the first tool during processing being cooled via the cryogenic coolant. The second tool is held in a second chuck and will subsequently be used for processing the workpiece. The second tool is supplied via the precooling device with the cryogenic coolant and thus cooled to the operating temperature required for processing. Due to the fact that the second tool is precooled to the required processing temperature, after the change of tools, the processing of the workpiece can be continued immediately. By precooling the second tool during the primary processing time, the total processing time of the workpiece is reduced, providing the machine tool with higher productivity.
US09126297B2

A workpiece conveying robot includes a base unit, a moving unit configured to move with respect to the base unit, a driving mechanism that drives the moving unit, and a detection unit. The moving unit includes a hand on which a workpiece is to be placed. The detection unit serves to detect information about the workpiece. Specifically, the detection unit includes a sensor provided at the hand, a base unit-side terminal provided at the base unit, and a moving unit-side terminal provided at the moving unit and electrically connected to the sensor. The base unit-side terminal and the moving unit-side terminal are brought into contact with each other when the moving unit is at a predetermined position.
US09126295B2

A device for fixing to a support a first part of a locking member including a base, an internal face of which can be kept clamped flat against the support by a screw-nut assembly and a body connected to the base configured to collaborate with a second part of a locking member secured to a component that is to be assembled into the support. The device includes a mechanism positioning the first part of the locking member in a reference plane formed by three other corresponding first parts of the locking member which are positioned on the support, and the screw-nut assembly includes a mechanism automatically taking up any play, configured to take up the play between the internal face of the base and the support as the screw-nut assembly is tightened.
US09126289B2

A railing support post with threaded holes or receivers for receiving threaded hardware, such as might be used for tensioned cable railing. A decorative sleeve or post cover may be used to at least partially enclose the railing support post. The railing support post may be manufactured, for example, by providing an elongated member of a prescribed length, drilling a plurality of holes spaced along the length of the elongated member, and tapping the plurality of holes to form a plurality of threaded receivers. The threaded receivers are configured to receive rail fittings or other fittings.
US09126288B2

A laser cutting nozzle configured such that a laser beam is irradiated through a nozzle hole formed in a nozzle main body from an opening of the nozzle hole, and an assist gas surrounding the laser beam is emitted. The nozzle hole includes a first control flow path, a second control flow path, and a third control flow path formed in a coaxial cylindrical shape, in sequence from upstream toward downstream in a flow direction of the assist gas. If a diameter of the first control flow path is φA, a diameter of the second control flow path is φB, and a diameter of the third control flow path is φC, an equation φA<φC<φB is satisfied.
US09126285B2

Methods of dicing semiconductor wafers, each wafer having a plurality of integrated circuits, are described. A method includes forming a mask above the semiconductor wafer. The mask covers and protects the integrated circuits. The mask is patterned with a laser scribing process to provide a patterned mask with gaps. The patterning exposes regions of the semiconductor wafer between the integrated circuits. The semiconductor wafer is then etched through the gaps in the patterned mask to form singulated integrated circuits. The patterned mask is then separated from the singulated integrated circuits.
US09126277B2

A power supply device for a wire electric discharge machine is provided with a main DC power source and an auxiliary DC power source with variable voltage. While first pulses are being output, a voltage from the main DC power source is applied to a machining gap between a wire electrode and a workpiece. While second pulses are being output with the output of the first pulses stopped, inductive energy stored by an inductance in a circuit is passed through the gap, and a voltage corresponding to a peak current value provided by the main DC power source is applied to the gap by the auxiliary DC power source. When the output of the second pulses is stopped, the inductive energy is returned to the main DC power source.
US09126276B2

The present invention concerns an apparatus for cutting a tubular part (16) extending down into a sea- or ocean bed. The apparatus includes a carrying body (1) adapted to be led over the tubular part (16) that is to be cut, with a cutting assembly placed in the carrying body (1). The cutting assembly includes a ring adapted to be driven in rotation in the carrying body (1). At least one cutting element (6) with a cutting portion (19), is hinged to the ring. At least one actuator (3) is adapted for leading the cutting element (6) between a retracted position and a cutting position against the tubular part (16) that is to be cut. Furthermore it is described an assembly with a cutting apparatus (A) and a carrying body (1) with a least one jaw (15, 28, 29) for fixing and centring the tubular part (16) in relation to the apparatus (A), and a method for subsea cutting of tubular parts (16).
US09126274B2

The invention relates to a powered saw (2) of the chop saw or mitre saw form. A circular blade is mounted to be rotated and is pivotally movable between raised and lowered position via movement of a support arm (26) with respect to the base (4). The support arm (26) is mounted on a slide (12) which is received within a bearing assembly (10). Means (52, 54) are provided to prevent debris and other material from entering the bearing assembly (10) thereby ensuring accurate and smooth movement between the slide (12) and the bearing assembly (10).
US09126266B2

The present invention relates to a machine tool, in particular a lathe, comprising a machine frame 1 having a first carrier side TS1 and a second carrier side TS2, wherein the machine frame 1 includes a first carrier portion 1a, a second carrier portion 1b and a middle carrier portion 1c which is arranged between the first and second carrier portions, a first spindle carrier 31 which is arranged on the first carrier side TS1 of the first carrier portion 1a and which holds a first work spindle 21, a first spindle carrier slide 42 which is arranged on the first or second carrier side of the second carrier portion 1b and on which a second spindle carrier 32 is arranged which holds a second work spindle 22 facing the first work spindle 21, wherein the spindle axes are aligned in parallel, in particular coaxially, and wherein the second spindle carrier 32 can be moved in direction W parallel to the spindle axes, and a second tool carrier slide 52 which is arranged on the first carrier side TS1 of the middle portion 1c and on which a tool carrier 62 for tools is arranged, wherein the second tool carrier slide 52 is arranged on the first carrier side TS1 between the first spindle carrier 31 and the second spindle carrier 32.
US09126257B2

A method of forming a pair of opposed side walls and a pair of opposed end walls of a sheet metal casket shell from a single piece of sheet metal. The piece of sheet metal has opposite ends and a length equal to the combined length of the pair of side walls and the pair of end walls of the casket shell to be formed. The opposite ends of the piece of sheet metal are secured together to form a tube. A roll forming roller is positioned in an interior of the tube. A female die configured to produce a desired profile for the side walls and the end walls of the casket shell is positioned around an exterior of the tube. The roller is moved outwardly so as to contact an interior surface of the tube and deform the tube toward a die cavity of the female die. The roller is rolled around a perimeter of the interior of the tube so as to deform the perimeter of the tube toward the die cavity of the female die. The desired profile for the side walls and the end walls of the casket shell is thereby produced.
US09126253B2

A lightweight mold for press forming is presented. Molds are characterized in that design forming portions thereof, these design forming portions making contact with a workpiece at the time of press forming and thereby forming a target design on the workpiece, are constructed of rod shaped members (design forming rods). By having the design forming portions be constructed of rod shaped members, the weight of the mold is reduced. It is preferred that the molds are further provided with supporting rods which support the design forming rods, these rod members constituting a framework structure.
US09126250B2

A machine for leveling a strip of material contains a lower stationary back plate from which extends vertical beams located on either side of a longitudinal axis. A lower stationary leveling chassis and an upper leveling chassis are provided. Each chassis contains spaced apart rollers. An upper stationary back plate is rigidly secured to the upper end of each beam, and a moving coupling device couples the upper leveling chassis to the upper back plate. A device allows a vertical translational movement of the upper leveling chassis in relation to the upper stationary back plate between a rest position where the rollers of the upper leveling chassis are moved away from rollers of the lower leveling chassis and a leveling position where rollers of the upper leveling chassis are moved towards rollers of the lower leveling chassis and the strip is forced to travel along an undulating path.
US09126236B2

Disclosed herein is the use of differences in x-ray linear absorption coefficients to process ore and remove elements with higher atomic number from elements with lower atomic numbers. Use of this dry method at the mine reduces pollution and transportation costs. One example of said invention is the ejection of inclusions with sulfur, silicates, mercury, arsenic and radioactive elements from coal. This reduces the amount and toxicity of coal ash. It also reduces air emissions and the energy required to clean stack gases from coal combustion. Removal of said ejected elements improves thermal efficiency and reduces the pollution and carbon footprint for electrical production.
US09126235B2

An enhanced postal data modeling framework, in which postal data which describes characteristics of a mail sortation process is accessed, and the postal data is mapped to production management data which describes characteristics of a model production management process in an initial state and which is capable of being processed by a production management application. The production management data is input for processing by the production management application to produce forecasted production management data which predicts characteristics of the model production management process in a subsequent state, the forecasted production management data is modeled to forecasted postal data which predicts characteristics of the mail sortation process, and at least a portion of the forecasted postal data is provided to a user.
US09126229B2

A deposit removal method for removing deposits deposited on the surface of a pattern formed on a substrate by etching, includes an oxygen plasma treatment process for exposing the substrate to oxygen plasma while heating the substrate and a cycle treatment process for, after the oxygen plasma treatment process, repeating multiple cycles of a first period and a second period. In the first period, the substrate is exposed to a mixture of hydrogen fluoride gas and alcohol gas inside a processing chamber and the partial pressure of the alcohol gas is set to the first partial pressure. In the second period, the partial pressure of the alcohol gas is set to the second partial pressure lower than the first partial pressure by exhausting the inside of the processing chamber.
US09126228B2

A method for accelerated drying of at least one polymer which is located at least partially on a component, in particular at least a layer of paint and/or a sealing agent which is applied to an aircraft component in particular with a different material composition, involving the following steps of: a) at least partially applying the at least one polymer, in particular an epoxy resin and/or polyurethane-based layer of paint and/or a sealing agent, to an upper side of the component, and b) at least partially drying the polymer by means of electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength range of between 0.28 μm and 4.0 μm. Accelerated drying of the polymer, in particular the paint layer thereby becomes possible from an upper side of the component to an upper side of the paint layer.
US09126227B2

In an embodiment, a method for manufacturing a thin layer chromatography (“TLC”) plate is disclosed. The method includes forming a layer of elongated nanostructures (e.g., carbon nanotubes), priming the elongated nanostructures with one or more adhesion priming layers, and at least partially coating the elongated nanostructures with a coating. The coating includes a stationary phase and/or precursor of a stationary phase for use in chromatography. The stationary phase may be functionalized with hydroxyl groups by exposure to a base or acid. The stationary phase may further be treated with a silane (e.g., an amino silane) to improve the performance of the TLC plate. Embodiments for TLC plates and related methods are also disclosed.
US09126225B2

A coating apparatus includes a die coater that supplies a coating liquid to a web. The die coater includes a die main body, a manifold, a slot, a lip face, a mount, a decompression chamber, and a container. The container includes a guide plate guiding the coating liquid or a solvent ejected from the slot of the die coater without bringing the coating liquid or solvent into contact with the mount and the decompression chamber in a non-steady state, in which the coating liquid is not supplied from the die coater to the web. The container collects the coating liquid or the solvent guided by the guide plate. The coating apparatus also includes a liquid discharge tube that is connected to the container and discharges the coating liquid or solvent to an outside of the decompression chamber.
US09126222B2

A hot melt adhesive material dispensing system comprises two separate and independent rotary, gear-type metering pumps, or two separate and independent sets of pumps, which are able to output precisely metered amounts of hot melt adhesive material. The hot melt adhesive materials discharged are able to be independently outputted through suitable output devices onto a substrate to result in different outputted volumes of the hot melt adhesive material in accordance with predeterminedly desired patterns, or at predeterminedly desired locations. The hot melt adhesive materials may also have their volumetric outputs combined such that the discharged or outputted volumes of the hot melt adhesive material onto the substrate may be, for example, twice the outputted volumes of the hot melt adhesive outputted onto the substrate from only one of the two pumps, or from only one of the two pumps.
US09126221B2

A system for coating objects, comprising a coating booth and an electrostatically operating separation unit. A feeding device, by which deposition liquid can be fed to the upper region of each deposition surface, is assigned to each deposition electrode of the deposition unit. The feeding device has a feed channel which can be filled with deposition liquid and which in the lower region thereof is formed by two spring plates. Two slide plates are also seated against the opposite deposition surfaces of the deposition electrode and can be moved back and forth between a position in which the lower edges of said slide plates are located above the lower edges of the spring plates and a position in which the lower edges of said slide plates are located below the lower edges of the spring plates.
US09126219B2

An acoustic streaming fluid ejector includes a fluid filled chamber having an opening, a selectively vibrating flow generator having a sharp edge pointed toward the opening, and a driving device configured to vibrate one of the flow generator and the chamber to create a streaming fluid flow in a direction away from the sharp edge through the opening. Methods are also disclosed.
US09126212B2

A spray nozzle configured to be disposed on top of and coupled to a standard spray paint canister. Compressed gas within the spray paint canister serves as the propellant which expels the liquid paint out of the canister when the nozzle is actuated. The paint and compressed gas travel through the internal passageways of the nozzle and are ejected from the nozzle in a three-dimensional conical discharge. The nozzle comprises an adjustable valve for a user to manipulate and change the emitted three-dimensional discharge from the canister. The adjustable valve alters the internal flow characteristics of the nozzle which in turn change the diameter of a circular spray pattern which is produced when the nozzle is held at a set distance away from a surface that is being sprayed. The user may adjust the fluid flow during use or between uses.
US09126206B2

A separating device for separating a mixture of magnetizable and non-magnetizable particles contained in a suspension that is conducted in a separating channel is provided, the separating device including a laminated, ferromagnetic yoke arranged to one side of the separating channel, e.g., a yoke made of iron, having at least one magnetic field generating means for generating a magnetic deflecting field and a separating element arranged at the outlet of the separating channel for separating the magnetic particles, wherein the magnetic field generating means is a coil assembly including coils equidistantly arranged in grooves of the yoke along the separating channel and which can be actuated via a control device such that a temporally variable deflecting magnetic field, substantially deflecting toward the yoke, e.g., a traveling wave, is generated, having substantially field-free regions passing over the entire length of the separating channel.
US09126203B2

The present invention relates to a rock crushing apparatus. Known apparatus operate on the distinct principles of compression crushing (compression between moving surfaces) or impact crushing (compression via high velocity rock impacting a surface). Both types of apparatus have disadvantages in the quality of the crushed product, energy inefficiency or high rotor wear rates. The apparatus (1) comprises a rotor (2) comprising a number of reciprocating (11) and fixed compression crushing elements (12, 13) to compression crush the rock between adjacent reciprocating and fixed surfaces. The positioning of these elements (11, 12, 13) within the rotor performs an arresting action on the rock to limit the maximum radial velocity (Vr) the rock attains before its ejection from the compression crushing elements (11, 12, 13) for impact crushing on an adjacent surface. In this way the disadvantages of compression and impact crushing are minimized to produce a superior product.
US09126197B2

The present invention features a freestanding microfluidic pipette with both solution exchange capability and fluid re-circulation, enabling highly localized and contamination- free fluid delivery within a confined volume in the vicinity of the pipette exit. Preferably, the device features direct positioning, so the pipette can be directed at a point or object of interest, such as a biological or artificial cell, a defined surface area or a sensor element within an open volume, using micro- or nanopositioning techniques. One aspect of the invention provides a free-standing pipette. The free-standing pipette includes a microfluidic device comprising one or more channels with exits leading into an open-volume and a positioning device programmed to hold the microfluidic device at an angle from a horizontal axis.
US09126193B2

Disclosed is a method for forming a photocatalyst thin film, which is characterized in that a photocatalyst thin film containing a niobium-alkali metal complex oxide is formed by forming and then firing a layer containing niobium on the surface of a base containing an alkali metal.
US09126188B2

Aspects of the invention relate to hydrogenation catalysts, and hydrogenation processes using these catalysts, having particular characteristics, in terms of the amount and type of metal hydrogenation component (or catalytic constituent), as well as the support or substrate. The catalyst compositions, comprising both a noble metal and a lanthanide element on a substantially non-porous substrate, provide advantageous performance characteristics, including conversion, selectivity, and activity stability, as demanded in industrial hydrogenation and selective hydrogenation applications.
US09126187B2

A catalyst comprising a plurality of catalyst gauzes that are arranged in series is provided. Each catalyst gauze is made of a first noble-metal-containing wire and a second noble-metal-containing wire which is embedded in the catalyst gauze and which gives the catalyst gauze a preferential direction. The catalyst gauzes according to the invention are arranged in series such that the angles between the preferential directions of neighboring catalyst gauzes ranges from 0° to 180°. The catalyst ensures a product yield that is reproducible over time and has a long service life.
US09126186B2

A process for producing thermally surface postcrosslinked water-absorbing polymer particles, wherein the water-absorbing polymer particles are coated before, during or after the thermal surface postcrosslinking with at least one complex consisting of a polyvalent metal salt and a 2-hydroxycarboxamide.
US09126185B2

A composition for the destruction of chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals having a polyoxometalate (POM) attached to an amine, carboxylic acid, or ammonium substituted porous polymer. Also disclosed is a method for attaching a POM to an amine, carboxylic acid, or ammonium substituted porous polymer by (1) dissolving the POM in water or an organic solvent, adding the functionalized porous polymer, whereby the POM ionically attaches to the amine, carboxylic acid or ammonium group, or (2) heating the POM and functionalized polymer in the presence of a dehydrating agent whereby an imide bond is produced between the POM and the functionality on the porous polymer.
US09126183B2

The invention relates to a Y-type zeolite having a modified faujasite structure, the intracrystalline structure of which includes at least one network of micropores, at least one network of small mesopores having an average diameter ranging from 2 to 5 nm, and at least one network of large mesopores having an average diameter ranging from 10 to 50 nm. The invention also relates to particles including such zeolites and to the use thereof in a method for processing crude oil, particularly as a hydrocracking catalyst.
US09126170B2

Improved treatment apparatus (120, 152) is provided for the treatment (e.g., molding, heating and/or curing) of objects such as parts or part precursors (148, 170) including wireless detection of a temperature parameter related to the objects during treatment thereof. The objects include associated microwire-type sensors (150, 174) which have characteristic re-magnetization responses under the influence of applied, alternating magnetic fields. The apparatus (120, 152) have treatment chambers (122, 153) sized to hold the objects to be treated, with one or more antennas (132, 124, 166) proximal to such objects and operable to generate interrogating alternating magnetic fields and to detect the responses of the sensors (150, 174). The detected temperature parameter information is used by an apparatus controller (146) to maintain desired ambient conditions within the treatment chamber (122, 153).
US09126163B2

Nanoemulsions and processes for their preparation, and their use as formulations of plant protection products and/or pesticides and/or cosmetic preparations.
US09126158B2

A device for carrying out mechanical, chemical and/or thermal processes in a housing (3) having mixing and cleaning elements (5) on shafts (1, 2), wherein the mixing and cleaning elements (5) of the shafts (1, 2) engage into each other when rotating about the axes thereof and two mixing and cleaning elements (5) are arranged at least one shaft (1, 2) consecutively in the axial direction in a 180° rotation-symmetrical manner about the axis (A) of the shaft (1, 2). Each mixing and cleaning element (5) comprises a disc element (6) and the disc element (6) has an outer edge (7) running in a radius (r) in an arch segment of approximately 90° or slightly bigger about the axis (A) of the shaft (1, 2) and wherein side edges (8.1, 8.2) abut on both sides toward the shaft (1, 2), wherein one or more bars (9.1, 9.2) sit on the edge (7).
US09126157B2

A stirring device according to an aspect is provided with a holder which holds a specimen container accommodating a specimen in an upright position and a rotation mechanism section configured to rotate the specimen container, thereby stirring the specimen therein.
US09126148B2

A porous membrane with the membrane wall constructed of a hydrophobic polymer and a hydrophilic polymer, wherein when the membrane wall is divided into 3 sections in the film thickness direction to form region “a” containing one wall surface A of the membrane wall, region “c” containing the other wall surface C and region “b” between region “a” and region “c”, the hydrophilic polymer content ratio Ca in region “a” is greater than the hydrophilic polymer content ratio Cc in region “c”, and the mean pore size of the wall surface C is larger than the mean pore size of the wall surface A.
US09126140B2

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for collection devices, methods of making collection devices, methods of collecting gases and aerosol particles, and the like.
US09126139B2

A durable carbon pyrolyzate adsorbent having reversible sorptive affinity for hydrogen sulfide, and including the following characteristics: (a) a bulk density as measured by ASTM D2854 in a range of from 0.55 g/cc adsorbent to 1.25 g/cc adsorbent; (b) an H2S capacity in a range of from 140 cc H2S/g adsorbent to 250 cc H2S/g adsorbent, at normal conditions (1 atm, 293.15° K); (c) an H2S capacity in a range of from 1.0 cc H2S/g adsorbent to 15.0 cc H2S/g adsorbent, at partial pressure of 0.76 torr (101.3 Pa) (1000 ppm) of H2S at 293.15° K; and (d) a single pellet radial crush strength in a range of from 7 kilopond (kP) to 40 kilopond (kP) as measured by ASTM D4179. Such adsorbent is usefully employed for capture of hydrogen sulfide from gases containing same, such as H2S-containing gas associated with flowable hydrocarbonaceous material in refining operations, biogas produced by biomass digesters, gas mixtures produced by fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) units, and effluents from power plants gasifying sulfur-containing coal in an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) process.
US09126138B2

The present application is directed to a method and system for preparing gaseous utility streams from gaseous process streams, particularly, removing oil contamination from such streams prior to use in a dry gas seal. The methods and systems may include at least one kinetic swing adsorption process including pressure swing adsorption, temperature swing adsorption, calcination, and inert purge processes to treat gaseous streams for use in dry gas seals of rotating equipment such as compressors, turbines and pumps and other utilities. The adsorbent materials used include a high surface area solid structured microporous and mesoporous materials.
US09126127B2

An apparatus for separating hydrophilic material from hydrophobic material, comprising: (a) a body having a first and second parallel walls defining an elongated cavity; (b) a water-absorbing material in the cavity along the first wall and having a surface essentially parallel to the second wall, thereby defining a channel between the surface and the second wall; (c) a first inlet having a first inlet end disposed in the channel, the first inlet being configured for injecting a mixture of hydrophilic and hydrophobic material; (d) a first outlet having a first outlet end disposed in the channel proximate the surface downstream of the first inlet end and configured for removing the hydrophilic material; and (e) a second outlet having a second outlet end disposed in the channel a distance from the surface downstream of the first inlet end and configured for removing the hydrophobic material.
US09126120B2

The APPARATUSES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR AN ONLINE BEHAVIOR MONITOR (“OBM”) transform user social-gaming behavioral pattern data via various OBM components into online social-gaming experience customizations. In one embodiment, to process a virtual security clearance request, the OBM may obtain user online gaming pattern data including gaming actions and their associated timestamps, user online social activities and their associated timestamps; and virtual security clearance evaluation rules. The OBM may generate a social-gaming activity timeline using the gaming actions, social activities and timestamps. By applying the virtual security clearance evaluation rules to the social-gaming activity timeline, the OBM may calculate evaluation scores. The OBM may compare the evaluation scores to the evaluation score thresholds to generate virtual security clearance flags, and may determine whether any virtual security clearance flags were generated based on the comparison. The OBM may, upon determining that no virtual security clearance flags were generated, obtain user online gaming action input and user gaming environment data, and generate updated user gaming environment data using the user online gaming action input.
US09126116B2

Management of user-generated game play advice is disclosed. The present invention allows for management of game play advice that is complete and up-to-date regardless of when a particular interactive gaming title is released. Game play advice is pervasive and easily accessible to game players in addition to being accurate and credible such that game players can trust or rely upon the rendered advice.
US09126113B2

The disclosure relates generally to different devices, methods, systems, and computer program products for a gaming machine that includes a projection button panel. The projection button panel may include one or more projection buttons configured to receive user input. Each projection button may include a projection surface disposed within the button capable of being viewed by a player of the gaming machine. Each projection button may also include a button projector proximate to the projection surface. Further, each projection button may be configured to receive button image information and to project, based on the received button image information, a button image onto the projection surface. Each projection button may also include one or more sensors capable of being activated responsive to activation of the button. The gaming machine may also include one or more controllers in communication with the main display and the button assembly. The one or more controllers may be configured to transmit the image information for display at one or more of the buttons, receive the signal from the button assembly indicating that one or more of the sensors have been activated, and/or process the received signal.
US09126111B2

A holding portion 12 has a shape which allows relative movement between a pivot portion 21 and the holding portion 12 in the radial direction of the pivot portion 21 such that cover 20 is attachable to, and removable from, a cabinet 11 in the radial direction of the pivot portion 21. An engaging member 50 is movable between a locked position and a unlocked position. At the locked position, the engaging member 50 engages with the cabinet 11 so as to restrict the relative movement between the pivot portion 21 and the holding portion 12. At the unlocked position, the engaging member 50 releases the engagement between the engaging member 50 and the cabinet 11. A stopper 13 restricts the movement of the engaging member 50 from the locked position to the unlocked position.
US09126109B2

A guide unit of a game device moves a guide image from a generation position to a return position and thereafter moves the game image from the return position toward the generation position in a game screen, based on reference timing data indicating a reference timing at which a player should perform a game operation, to thereby indicate the reference timing to the player. A game operation detection unit detects a game operation by a player. An evaluation unit evaluates a game operation by a player, based on an operation timing at which a player performs a game operation and a reference timing indicated by the reference timing data.
US09126108B2

A poker machine apparatus has a pay line multiplier that is randomly selected for each active pay line. The pay line multiplier varies for each round of play. An extra wager may be required from the player to activate this feature during the play of a casino game. A player makes a wager to activate at least two pay lines to be played in the casino game. For each active pay line, a multiplier is randomly selected from a group of various multipliers and the selected multiplier is assigned to the activated pay line. The casino game is then played to achieve an outcome on each pay line. Each pay line that has a winning outcome has any associated award increased by the multiplier for that pay line.
US09126100B2

A ski training apparatus includes a ski pole having proximal and distal ends. A first guide member is coupled to an upper surface of a respective ski worn by a ski trainee and includes a first receiver portion defining a first open interior area and an open top. A second guide member includes a cylindrical configuration defining open upper and lower ends and an open interior area. A spring connects the second guide member to the first guide member, the spring having a flexible configuration such that the second guide member is repositionable relative to the first guide member. The second guide member is configured to receive the distal end of the ski pole. The second guide member is operatively coupled to the first guide member by the spring such that the ski trainer is selectively in control of the trainee's ski by manipulation of the ski pole.
US09126099B2

Boot binding systems for riding a snow gliding board, including a pair of boot bindings, each member of the pair having a toe latch pedal mechanism at the toe end of a baseplate on which the rider's boot rests, the toe latch pedal having dual function to either a) attach each boot binding to a ride mode interface in ride mode configuration or to b) attach each boot binding to a ski touring mode interface in ski touring configuration. In a “release position” the toe latch pedal is disengaged so that the baseplate assembly may be detached or switched between the ski touring mode interface and the ride mode interface in alternation. In a “lock position”, the toe of the rider's boot depresses the toe latch pedal and locks the boot binding onto the selected interface. As co-planar with the baseplate, the latch pedal also supports the rider's boot when in the lock position.
US09126098B2

A releasable snowboard binding includes a strap release mechanism adapted to be coupled to a binding strap, a spatial orientation detector, and a strap release actuator coupled to the strap release mechanism and configured to actuate the strap release mechanism in response to a spatial orientation detected by the spatial orientation detector. The snowboard binding is coupled between a strap and a binding frame.
US09126095B2

The present invention relates to a touring or cross-country binding comprising: an engagement section (2.1) for pivotal engagement of a ski shoe engagement pin (21); a first housing section (9) provided with an opening (9.2) adapted to receive the engagement section (2.1); at least one resilient element (10) fastenable in front of the engagement section (2.1); and a second housing section (7) connected to the first housing section (9); wherein the resilient element (10) is provided with at least one rear flange (10.1) extending from a rear lower section of the element, wherein the at least one rear flange extends to a position under a bottom surface of the second housing section (9).
US09126089B2

The present invention includes a ball receiving recess carried by a pivotable support structure. This support structure may be pivoted to the left or right to allow the ball receiving recess to be angulated with respect to vertical. The sides of the support structure include openings and elongated slots are formed within the football tee base aligned with the side openings in the support structure. An arm includes an elongated rod receivable within either opening in the football tee base, but rotatable with respect thereto. The arm includes an arcuate portion and an end distal from the rod including a wedge-like end having a narrow edge engaging within a seam of a football. The slots interengage with the rod of the arm to provide a limit stop mechanism, limiting the degree of lateral pivoting of the support structure.
US09126087B2

A hockey skill training system, said system comprising a hockey stick having a transverse bore, a movable stand, and a skill training device, said skill training device comprising: a generally cylindrical external shape having a to surface, a bottom surface, a front, and a back, wherein the bottom surface comprises an open portion adapted for releasably rigidly connecting said bottom portion of said training device on top of the stand, and wherein the top surface is upwardly slanted from the front to the back.
US09126086B2

The disclosure provides a modular sports training system that can be assembled, placed on a supporting surface, and stood upon by a person during sports training activities. The system is adapted to be assembled with one module being disposed at a non-parallel angle to another module. The non-parallel angle allows a person standing on the system to place one foot on one module and another foot on another module at the non-parallel angle, such as in a batter's stance, and allows the person to stand in a stable manner while encouraging certain positioning of the feet during the sports training activities. The modules can be coupled by an interlocking protrusion and receiver arrangement. The modules can be coupled together by inserting a protrusion of one module into a receiver of another module when the modules are unaligned relative to each other; and then twisting the modules into alignment.
US09126077B2

A micro-weight training apparatus can include one or more disc-shaped micro-weights. The micro-weight can include an annular body defining a substantially central aperture extending entirely through the annular body, wherein the annular body comprises first and second surfaces, with each surface terminating in a radiused edge. The micro-weight further includes a magnet disposed in the aperture. The micro-weight can have a mass in of about ¼ ounce to about 2 ounces.
US09126075B2

An exercise staff is comprised of two half staffs which can be coupled together. Each half staff includes a handle portion and a base portion, connected by a spring. An inner cylinder connected to the handle portion has an L-shaped groove with an axial segment. A pin in the base portion engages the groove and when the pin is in the axial portion of the groove, the handle and base portions may be separated with resistance by the spring. The handle portion is adapted to receive inserts of varying weights to modify the mass of the staff in use.
US09126073B2

An exercise machine applicable for strengthening a user's abdominal muscles is described. The exercise machine can include a base frame to provide ground support, a mounting assembly rotably mounted over the base frame, a backrest assembly movably coupled to the mounting assembly via one or more pivot joints for swivel movements along the base frame and a handle assembly adjustably affixed to the backrest assembly to allow a user sitting on the seat pad to induce the swivel movements via the backrest assembly.
US09126068B2

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method of treating a strong basic aluminum production waste. The method includes preparing an aluminum production waste; and mixing the aluminum production waste with gypsum.
US09126064B2

The invention proposes a composite textile material for NRBC applications, comprising a first material capable of providing a physical barrier to the penetration of microorganisms and a second material capable of trapping, by absorption and/or adsorption, said microorganisms stopped by said first material and article of protection made of said material.
US09126054B2

A system and method for estimating the longevity of an implantable medical device (IMD). In one embodiment of a method for estimating a life of a power source of an implantable medical device, a first life estimate of the power source is determined based on a first open-loop value corresponding to an open-loop parameter for open-loop therapy delivery, a first closed loop value corresponding to a closed-loop parameter for closed-loop therapy delivery, and prior usage data corresponding to prior therapy delivery. The first life estimate of the power source is displayed. The first life estimate displayed includes a first open-loop portion associated with open-loop therapy delivery and a first closed-loop portion associated with closed-loop therapy delivery.
US09126053B2

One aspect relates to an electrical bushing for use in a housing of an active implantable medical device. The electrical bushing includes an electrically insulating base body and an electrical conducting element. The conducting element is set up to establish, through the base body, an electrically conducting connection between an internal space of the housing and an external space. The conducting element is hermetically sealed with respect to the base body, and the conducting element includes a cermet.
US09126048B2

A neuromodulation system for treating acute heart failure syndromes includes a first catheter having a parasympathetic therapy element adapted for positioning within a first blood vessel such as a superior vena cava, and a second catheter sympathetic therapy element adapted for positioning with a second, different, blood vessel such as the pulmonary artery. The catheters comprise a system in which one of catheters is slidably disposed over the other of the catheters. The system may further be slidably disposed over a third elongate element such as a Swan-Ganz catheter positionable within a pulmonary artery, such that the Swan-Ganz may be used for monitoring parameters such as blood pressure and cardiac output during neuromodulation therapy. The parasympathetic therapy element is energized to deliver neuromodulation therapy to a parasympathetic nerve fiber such as a vagus nerve, while the sympathetic therapy element is energized to deliver neuromodulation therapy to a sympathetic nerve fiber such as a sympathetic cardiac nerve fiber. For treatment of acute heart failure syndromes, the neuromodulation therapy may be used to lower heart rate and increase cardiac inotropy.
US09126045B2

A neurostimulation system measures a cardiac parameter at various cardiac intervals and analyzes its restitution, including computing a restitution slope being a rate of change of the restitution parameter with respect to change in the cardiac interval. In various embodiments, the system uses the restitution slope to provide for adaptive control of neurostimulation. In various embodiments, one or more cardiac parameters such as action potential duration (APD), conduction velocity (CV), QT interval (QT), and/or T-wave morphology (TM) parameter are measured and analyzed for restitution of each parameter, which is then used to control the delivery of the neurostimulation.
US09126042B2

An implantable neurostimulator system for treating movement disorders includes a sensor, a detection subsystem capable of identifying episodes of a movement disorder by analyzing a signal received from the sensor, and a therapy subsystem capable of supplying therapeutic electrical stimulation to treat the movement disorder. The system treats movement disorders by detecting physiological conditions characteristic of an episode of symptoms of the movement disorder and selectively initiating therapy when such conditions are detected.
US09126040B2

An implantable sound pickup system. The system comprises an intracochlear acoustic sensor implantable in a recipient's cochlea comprising: piezoelectric element configured to detect pressure waves in the perilymph of the cochlea when the acoustic sensor is at least partially implanted in the cochlea, and to produce electrical signals corresponding to the detected pressure waves.
US09126034B1

Method of producing a therapeutic laser or LED device (TLD). The TLD includes flexible membranes which comprise a high pressure air cavity. High air pressure is produced by fans which are computer speed controlled. Standoff posts provide a separation function between the TLD and the patient. Semiconductor laser diodes and lens sets or LEDs and lens sets in a two dimensional array produce the therapeutic light. Cooling air tubes direct air controlled by temperature sensors from the high pressure cavity onto laser diodes or LEDs. Capacitive proximity sensors in conjunction with infrared radiation sensors confirm close contact with a patient and allow light radiation. Power is supplied either by battery or by connection to mains power. A wireless touch screen device displays information to the user and controls the therapy session. The TLD and the power supply both have stretchable straps enabling the TLD to be fixed to the patient.
US09126024B2

A trans-endoscopic hydraulic balloon dilation apparatus includes a fluid reservoir containing a hydraulic fluid. A shaft has a lumen in fluid communication with a leading end of the fluid reservoir. A balloon is mounted on the shaft and an opening in the shaft enables hydraulic fluid to flow through the opening into or from the balloon. A piston secured to a leading end of a piston rod is slideably positioned within a lumen of the fluid reservoir. A hub secured to a trailing end of the fluid reservoir is centrally apertured to accommodate the piston rod so that a trailing end of the piston rod is external to the fluid reservoir. Displacement of the piston rod in a trailing-to-leading direction causes expansion of the balloon. Displacement of the piston rod in a leading-to-trailing direction causes deflation of the balloon. The piston can be locked into any position.
US09126022B2

A textile-reinforced medical dilation balloon is provided, including a woven tubular textile sleeve with substantially longitudinal thermoplastic warp threads and at least one weft thread woven substantially perpendicular relative to the warp threads, where the sleeve defines a sleeve lumen. A medical dilation balloon is disposed within the sleeve lumen, and an adhesive coating substantially covers the inner and outer surfaces of the sleeve, attaching it to the balloon.
US09126016B2

The present invention relates to a catheter apparatus with an anchoring device to stabilize the catheter tip when in use, such as when infusing, injecting, or delivering substances, devices or other catheters into a patient. The apparatus according to various embodiments deploys an anchoring device that stabilizes the catheter tip and enables adjustment of the blood flow during use.
US09126015B2

Apparatus are provided for accessing and/or removing material from a body lumen. The apparatus includes a tubular sheath including a shaft having a proximal end and an expandable distal end that is expandable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded, tapered configuration. In one embodiment, the expandable member include inner and outer membranes attached together and to the shaft. Optionally, the inner membrane may include a reinforcement layer and/or the outer membrane may have a longer chord length than the inner membrane, to enhance the expandable member expanding such that a distal opening is defined by the expandable member having s a relatively large diameter tapering proximally to a lumen of the shaft. Optionally, the apparatus may include a dilator and/or one or more treatment devices receivable in the lumen of the shaft.
US09126014B2

A fistula catheter in which an intracorporeal fixing part comprises an inner balloon and an outer balloon is disclosed, whereby it is possible to prevent removal from the fistula by means of the inner balloon, even if the outer balloon deflates.
US09126012B2

A catheter assembly is disclosed, which includes a catheter adapter. A port is disposed in the catheter adapter to provide selective access to the interior of the catheter adapter, and can be used for fluid flushing or infusion. A valve is disposed within the catheter adapter that includes a one-way valve portion that prevents proximally-directed fluid flow. The valve further including a flexible tube portion that covers an opening between the port and the catheter adapter.
US09126004B2

A therapeutic face mask comprises a face-engaging portion and a single connector having a mask-engaging end and a single treatment-receiving end which has a single attachment mounting for detachably sealingly receiving a treatment attachment, such as an oxygen reservoir bag or a nebulizer. A one-way inhalation valve in the connector permits fluid flow from the treatment-receiving end to the mask-engaging end during inhalation and inhibits fluid flow in the other direction. The mask also includes a valve-governed exhalation port and an anti-asphyxia valve assembly configured to permit fluid flow from ambient to the face-engaging portion during inhalation only when inspiratory effort during inhalation exceeds fluid flow to the treatment-receiving end of the connector. Also provided is an oxygen reservoir bag having a neck shaped for removable coupling to a mating connector of a therapeutic face mask. An oxygen reservoir bag may have a metered-dose inhaler port defined in its neck.
US09125996B2

A liquid injection instrument includes an internal structural body having a cylindrical body that has a cylindrical shape and has an inner cavity part in which a drug solution is housed, a hollow needle disposed at a distal part of the cylindrical body, a gasket slidable in the cylindrical body, and a plunger that carries out movement operation of the gasket along an axial direction of the cylindrical body. The liquid injection instrument further includes a cylindrical protector disposed on an outer circumferential side of the internal structural body movably along the axial direction of the internal structural body. The protector has an outside engagement piece and the cylindrical body has an inside engagement piece engageable with the outside engagement piece.
US09125985B2

A safety needle assembly including a medical needle and a needle protection assembly. The needle protection assembly includes a cover member surrounding a portion of the medical needle and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A base sub-assembly of the needle protection assembly is attached to an end of the cover member and includes a base plate defining a through hole receiving the medical needle therethrough in the retracted condition of the needle protection assembly. A needle stop member, including an integrally formed spring portion and stop plate, is positioned on a planar side of the base plate, and the spring portion biases the stop plate in linear movement to cover the hole in response to movement of the needle protection assembly to the extended condition.
US09125980B2

A medical device, particularly for mixing medical fluids, includes two tubular bodies made of materials of different elasticity having respective open ends to be joined together. The end of the second body is inserted axially by friction within the end of the first body and is then blocked via radial projections, which are obtained by plastic deformation of the wall of the end of the first body and are engaged against the end of the second body.
US09125968B2

Implantable or insertable medical devices that have one or more composite regions. These composite regions include polymer and sol-gel derived ceramic. The polymer and sol-gel ceramic may form bi-continuous phases or separate polymeric and sol-gel derived ceramic phases.
US09125958B2

A method and apparatus comprising microwave radiation pulses to reduce a microorganism population in an object.
US09125954B2

The present invention provides a method for the synthesis of 18F-labelled biomolecules, which is amenable to automation. The present invention also provides a cassette for automating the method of the invention. The method of the present invention provides numerous advantages over the prior art methods. One less purification step is required as compared with known methods. Also, one less reagent is required as a particular reagent is employed in two different steps. The chemistry process is thereby simplified, the cost of goods is reduced and the burden of validation and documentation of reagents required for GMP clinical production is minimized.
US09125951B2

The present invention relates to immunogenic conjugates comprising S. aureus serotype 5 and 8 capsular polysaccharides conjugated to carrier proteins and methods for their preparation and use. Methods for making the immunogenic conjugates of the invention involve covalent conjugation of the capsular polysaccharides with the carrier proteins using conjugation chemistry involving either 1,1-carboyl-di-1,2,4-triazole (CDT) or 3-(2-pyridyldithio)-propionyl hydrazide (PDPH).
US09125945B2

The present invention provides compositions containing clopidogrel, present as a free base or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and sulfoalkyl ether cyclodextrin (SAE-CD). The compositions can be liquid, suspension or solid compositions. They can be adapted for oral, peroral or parenteral administration. The SAE-CD serves to aid in dissolution and stabilization of the clopidogrel in aqueous media. The stability of clopidogrel against hydrolytic degradation, thermal degradation, and photolytic degradation are improved. SAE-CD provides improved results over other cyclodextrin derivatives. The SAE-CD-containing composition of clopidogrel can be provided in liquid form, solid form or as a reconstitutable powder. Both ready-to-use and concentrated liquid compositions can be prepared. The liquid composition is optionally available as a clear solution. The compositions herein can be administered perorally or parenterally and provide substantial pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and/or therapeutic advantages over a tablet composition administered perorally and excluding SAE-CD.
US09125939B2

The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises a carbostyril derivative which is a dopamine-sero-tonin system stabilizer and a mood stabilizer in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The carbostyril derivative may be aripiprazole or a metabolite thereof. The mood stabilizer may include but is not limited to lithium, valproic acid, divalproex sodium, carbamaza-pine, oxcarbamazapine, zonisamide, lamotragine, topiramate, gabapentin, levetiracetam or clonazepam. These compositions are used to treat patients with mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder with or without psychotic features, mania or mixed episodes. Methods are provided for separate administration of a carbostyril derivative and a mood stabilizer to a patient with a mood disorder.
US09125938B2

Naphthalimide compounds are used in tissue bonding and protein cross-linking applications. When activated by an activating agent, such as light in the 400-500 nm absorption range, the naphthalimide compounds form chemically-reactive species that cross-link proteins, bond connective tissues together, and bond tissues and other biomaterials together. A naphthalimide-labeled biomolecule, such as a naphthalimide-labeled chitosan, is also capable of bonding tissues without subsequent direct illumination of the contacted tissue area. The naphthalimide compounds may be used in tissue or arterial repair, stabilization of an expanded arterial wall after angioplasty, tethering pharmaceutical agents to tissue surfaces to provide local drug delivery, and for chemically bonding skin care products, sunscreens, and cosmetics to the skin.
US09125932B2

The present invention relates to a composition for preventing or treating respiratory diseases, and more particularly, to a pharmaceutical composition, and to a health food, comprising extracts of herbal mixtures or fermented products thereof having lactic acid bacteria as effective ingredients for preventing or treating respiratory diseases, wherein the herbal mixtures comprise: Sophora flavascens, Radix glycyrrhizae, Flos Lonicerae, Angelicae Gigantis radix, Aralia continentalis, Inula helenium, Saposhnikoviae radix, Zizyphus spinosa, Houttuynia cordata, Forsythiae fructus, Arctium lappa, Herba epimedii, ginseng, Lithospermi radix, Sanguisorbae radix, Cnidii rhizoma, Scrophulariae radix, and Polygoni cuspidati radix. The herbal extracts or fermented products thereof having lactic acid bacteria exhibit the effects of significantly lowering an airway resistance value; reducing the numbers of leukocytes, neutrophilic leukocytes, lymphocytes, eosinocytes, and basophil leukocytes to levels similar to that of a normal group; and reducing the infiltration of inflammatory cells and eosinocyte cells near AHR on lung tissues. Therefore, the herbal extracts or fermented products thereof having lactic acid bacteria may be valuably used for the prevention and/or treatment of respiratory diseases such as asthma.
US09125926B2

Provided are compositions comprising an active ingredient having antispasmodic and/or prokinetic activity, preferably vicenin 2 or biologically active analogs thereof.
US09125923B2

It is disclosed herein that expression of microRNA-26 is decreased in hepatocellular (HCC) tumor tissue relative to non-cancerous tissue, and that a low level of microRNA-26 is associated with a poor clinical outcome. It is also disclosed herein that a low expression level of microRNA-26 is correlated with a favorable response to interferon (IFN)-α therapy in HCC patients. Thus, provided herein is a method of predicting the clinical outcome of a patient diagnosed with HCC comprising detecting the level of microRNA-26 expression in a sample obtained from the patient. Also provided is a method of selecting a patient diagnosed with HCC as a candidate for IFN-α therapy, comprising detecting the level of microRNA-26 expression in a sample obtained from the patient. A method of identifying therapeutic agents for the treatment of HCC, comprising screening candidate agents in vitro to select an agent that increases expression of microRNA-26 in HCC cells are also provided. Further provided are methods of treating a patient diagnosed with HCC and expressing a low level of miR-26, wherein treatment comprises IFN-α therapy.
US09125919B2

Dry powder foundation formulations that include a sustained-release salicylic acid composition, an effective, buffering amount of one or more salicylate ions, and one or more of zinc and titanium oxides, and pigments or colorants, are disclosed. The formulations provide both acne treatment and prevention, and sunblock protection. The formulation can also include other sunblocking or sunscreen agents to prevent photoaging and sunburn, such as avobenzone, and 3-benzophenone, and other cosmetically-acceptable active agents and excipients.
US09125916B2

The present disclosure relates to a compound of formula (I) or formula (II) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in the treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
US09125913B2

Disclosed are compounds which inhibit the activity of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 or Bcl-xL proteins, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases during which are expressed anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein.
US09125911B2

Kits and methods for treating disordered tissue caused by a virus in a mammal involve co-administration of a systemic anti-virus drug and topically administering an anti-infective composition. The systemic anti-virus drug is internally administered and disrupts or inhibits virus replication systemically within the mammal. Examples include nucleoside analogues, nucleoside analogue precursors, and nucleotide analogues. The topically administered anti-infective composition includes at least one anti-infective agent, such as an organohalide (e.g., benzalkonium chloride), and is formulated to penetrate below the disordered tissue surface and allow the anti-infective agent to kill viruses at the disordered tissue site. The anti-infective composition reduces the time and/or number of dosages required for the systemic anti-virus drug to treat the disordered tissue in the absence of topically administering the anti-infective composition. It also reduces or eliminates incidences of post-treatment neuralgia.
US09125900B2

This invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition for mammals and, more particularly, to a pharmaceutical composition which enhances the action of an anaesthetic used in both human and veterinary applications, which, at least partly, reduces the risk of respiratory depression and enhances pulmonary perfusion. The pharmaceutical composition is characterized in that it contains a serotonergic ligand or any pharmacologically acceptable salt or ester thereof which acts on at least one member of the 5-HT family of serotonergic receptors, preferably on one or more of the 5-HTiA, 5-HT4 and 5-HT7 serotonergic receptors. In an example the ligand is the 8-OH-DPAT ligand. The composition can be used in conjunction with or include an anaesthetic, preferably an opioid anaesthetic, to induce a state of anaesthesia in mammals and it can be used to immobilize wile or non-domestic mammals.
US09125888B2

Systems and methods for modifying the environment of target cell using genetically altered chondrocytes are provided. The genetically engineered chondrocytes can be used to express a therapeutic agent in a subject, including in an environment typically associated with chondrocytes and in an environment not typically associated with chondrocytes.
US09125887B2

Disclosed in certain embodiments is a canola extract comprising greater than 30% sinapic acid, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods thereof
US09125885B2

This invention provides a multivalent immunogenic composition including a soluble portion of a Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyo) whole cell preparation; and a porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) antigen, wherein the soluble portion of the M. hyo preparation is substantially free of both (i) IgG and (ii) immunocomplexes comprised of antigen bound to immunoglobulin.
US09125884B2

Provided herein are methods for treating subjects having a cancer, such as a relapsed or refractory solid tumor, wherein the method comprises administering to the subject a cytidine analog. In certain of the methods, the cytidine analog is administered alone or in combination with one or more anti-cancer agents. Also provided are methods for using a cytidine analog, to treat diseases and disorders including disorders related to abnormal cell proliferation, hematologic disorders, and immune disorders, among others. In certain of the methods, the cytidine analog is formulated in an oral dosage form and administered orally.
US09125883B2

The invention relates to certain low-molecular weight sulphated polysaccharide derivatives of marine native exopolysaccharides (EPSs) excreted by mesophilic marine bacteria from a deep hydrothermal environment, wherein said derivatives can be obtained by means of a method which comprises a step of free radical depolymerization of said native EPSs followed by a step of sulphating the resulting depolymerized derivatives. The present invention further relates to the use of said low-molecular weight sulphated polysaccharide derivatives as a wound-healing agent, particularly for preparing pharmaceutical compositions suitable for treating or preventing diseases of the connective tissues and particularly skin and gum tissues. The figure demonstrates how polysaccharide derivative GY 785 DRS according to the invention can stimulate fibroblast proliferation in latticed or reconstructed connective tissues at a concentration of 10 μg (m) g/ml.
US09125881B2

This invention relates to methods of using the monoglyceride of acetoacetate and metabolic precursors for the treatment, prevention, inhibition or alleviation of neurological diseases associated with neuronal hypometabolism, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA), GLUT1-deficient Epilepsy, Leprechaunism and Rabson-Mendenhall Syndrome, Coronary Arterial Bypass Graft (CABG) dementia, anesthesia induced memory loss, age associated memory impairment (AAMI), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Huntington's disease and many others.
US09125879B2

The present invention relates to a composition containing a quinoa grain extract, said extract being a peptidic and osidic extract or a lipidic extract of quinoa grain, said lipid quinoa extract being itself chosen from a group comprising an oil concentrated into its non saponificable fraction, a non saponificable, or a refined oil. The invention also relates to methods for preparing these different extracts and to dermatological or neutraceutic applications of these extracts.
US09125876B2

Use of erythrocytes containing arginine deirainase for the preparation of a medicinal product for lowering the plasma concentration of arginine in vivo. The use relates in particular to the treatment of arginine-dependent tumors, such as hepatocarcinoma and malignant melanoma, or inhibition of the synthesis of nitric oxide, and the prevention and/or treatment of septic shock.
US09125874B2

Methods of promoting reproductive health in an animal, including humans, by administering an effective amount of a composition containing at least one transfer factor are provided.
US09125870B2

Provided is a vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), comprising a recombinant human adenovirus of serotype 26 that comprises nucleic acid encoding a RSV F protein or immunologically active part thereof.
US09125869B2

The invention relates to an ex vivo method for expanding monocytes, macrophages or dendritic cells, which method comprises inhibiting the expression or the activity of MafB and c-Maf in monocytes, macrophages or dendritic cells; and expanding the cells in the presence of at least one cytokine or an agonist of cytokine receptor signalling.
US09125866B1

The antidepressant compounds are compounds of the formula: wherein R1 and R2 are either both hydrogen or both halogen (particularly chlorine), and if R1 and R2 are both hydrogen, R3 and R4 are both halogen (particularly chlorine), otherwise both R3 and R4 are hydrogen; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The compounds may be prepared by: (a) reducing 1,8-dihaloanthrquinone with zinc powder in aqueous ammonia, followed by acidic treatment to provide 1,8-dihaloanthracene; (b) Diels-Alder [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of the 1,8-dihaloanthracene and acrolein at room temperature in the presence of boron trifluoride etherate to obtain a mixture of the intermediate compounds 1,8-dihalo-9,10-dihydo-9,10-ethanoanthracene-11-carbaldehyde and 4,5-dihalo-9,10-dihydo-9,10-ethanoanthracene-11-carbaldehyde; (c) separating the mixture of carbaldehydes by column chromatography; and (d) direct reductive amination of the respective carbaldehydes to obtain the corresponding antidepressant compounds of the above formula.
US09125859B2

This invention relates to the use of the phytocannabinoid cannabidivarin (CBDV) and combinations of the phytocannabinoid CBDV with tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and cannabidiol (CBD) in the treatment of epilepsy. The invention further relates to the use of the phytocannabinoid CBDV in combination with standard anti-epileptic drugs (SAEDs). Preferably the SAED is one of ethosuximide, valproate or phenobarbital.
US09125857B2

The invention relates to a method for producing drug extracts that contain hydroxystilbene from a vegetable drug and to the use of various agents for pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical purposes.
US09125855B2

The present invention relates to novel Salmonella mutants, to a process for producing the same and to vaccines containing the same, wherein said Salmonella mutants are characterized in that they are not responsive to stress-related recrudescence. It is accordingly an object of the present invention to provide the use of said Salmonella mutants in the vaccination of animals, in particular mammals and birds, more in particular pigs, poultry and cattle.
US09125843B2

A method for stimulating collagen synthesis in aging skin cells in need of treatment by topically applying a composition comprising at least one extract from Laminaria genus, at least one extract from the Narcissus genus, and at least one peptide that stimulates sirtuin 6 activity in the form of a peptide or a yeast extract where the peptide is component of the extract; and a treatment composition comprising at least one extract from Laminaria genus, at least one extract from the Narcissus genus; and at least one peptide that stimulates sirtuin 6 activity.
US09125841B2

The present invention relates to oral compositions, comprising select polyethylene oxide-polypropylene oxide block copolymer surfactants. Methods for using the compositions are also disclosed.
US09125839B2

A composition for external use on skin that can be spread evenly on the skin, does not produce a liquid residue as a result of temperature change, and can suppress a feeling of sliminess of xanthan gum is provided. There are provided a composition for external use on skin containing 0.1% by mass to 10% by mass of a component (A) (a water-soluble polymer obtained by mixing agar with xanthan gum) and 30% by mass or more of a component (D) (water); the composition for external use on skin containing 0.5% by mass to 40% by mass of a divalent polyol as a component (B); the composition for external use on skin according to any one of the above compositions, which contains moisturizers as a component (C); and the composition for external use on skin according to any one of the above compositions, which contains oil as a component (E).
US09125835B2

Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinomas (NSCLCs) are treated with Gel Micro-Particles (GMPs) that passively accumulate in the lungs and contain Nano-Particles (NPs) combining one or more therapeutic agents that are cytotoxic to the NSCLC with one or more NSCLC active targeting ligands, as well as one or more other optional agents that increase cellular uptake, enhance the pro-apoptotic effect of the chemotherapeutic agent(s), and the like. NPs targeting other cancer cells are also disclosed, as well as NP-containing GMPs that reduce the occurrence of tumor metastasis.
US09125829B2

A photostabilized photoactive composition comprising a mixture of a photoactive compound that develops a singlet excited state, or fluoresces when subjected to UV radiation and an effective amount of an excited state quencher comprising a cyano-containing fused tricyclic compound of formula (I): wherein: A is selected from the group consisting of O, S, C═O, and n is selected from the group consisting of 0 and 1; and, R1 and R2 are each independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl, ether, aryl, and amino.
US09125824B1

Methods and systems for processing organic trans-resveratrol for use in dietary supplements is disclosed. The process begins with harvesting grapes, stems and leaves, placing them in a cloth sack and delivering the grapes, stems and leaves to a nearby processing facility within less than 25 minutes. Thereafter, grapes are pressed to extract the juice and the residual pomace of skin, seeds and stems is removed from the pressing cylinder, ground to a fine mesh powder (approximately 50 mesh size), mixed with a bioflavanoid compound and polygonum cuspidatum, handled in controlled temperatures between approximately 10.0° C. (50 degrees F.) to approximately 30° C. (86 degrees F.) and with humidity of the storage area at less than 35%. The process results in a high quality and high quantity yield of a stable, organic trans-resveratrol for use in dietary supplements that are bioavailable and easily absorbed by the consumer of the dietary supplement.
US09125809B2

There is disclosed a technique for making a jelly formulation comprising pectin slide out of a container easily (improving the slidability of the jelly formulation) when taking the formulation out of the container to prevent the formulation from remaining in the container. The jelly formulation of the present invention comprises a drug, pectin, divalent metal ions, and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol.
US09125808B2

The present invention relates to ionic silicone hydrogel contact lenses which comprise at least one pharmaceutical or nutriceutical component and are formed from reaction mixtures comprising a mixture of slow-reacting hydrophilic monomers, including at least one slow-reacting ionic monomer, at least one silicone-containing component and at least one hydroxyl-containing component, wherein the ratio of the slow-reacting hydrophilic component half lives to the silicone-containing component half life is at least 2.
US09125790B2

An apparatus and a method for a walking aid are disclosed. The walking aid includes a walker having a frame configured to extend about a user of the walker to at least partially support the user and to facilitate the user progressing along a path from a current step to a next step while at least partially supported by the walker. A swivel mount is supported by the frame. A light source is connected to the swivel mount. The light source is configured to project a visual cue on a projection surface in the path between the current step and the next step to trigger the next step by the user. A controller is configured to adjust a visual property of the visual cue for use under indoor conditions and outdoor conditions.
US09125787B2

A compression garment for applying compression therapy to a body part of a person. The compression garment includes a bladder including an inflatable chamber having a perimeter and an opening through which the inflatable chamber is inflated. A foam layer is positioned at least partially in the inflatable chamber for reducing a volume of gas required to inflate the inflatable chamber and extends at least partially outside the inflatable chamber for providing structural support to the compression garment.
US09125775B2

A method of forming a post bonded loop laminate material includes providing a first layer of material comprising a nonwoven web of loop material having fibers and applying a force to the nonwoven web of loop material to generally orient the fibers in the direction of the applied force. The first layer of material is laminated to a second layer of material while applying the force to the nonwoven web of loop material to form a nonwoven loop laminate material. The first layer of material is bonded to the second layer of material after forming the nonwoven loop laminate material to form a post bonded loop laminate material.
US09125771B2

A tampon for feminine hygiene, having an insertion end, a recovery end, a recovery tape, and a longitudinal axis. The tampon is made of compressed fibrous material and has an outer surface that is at least partially provided with spirally shaped, pressed longitudinal grooves. The grooves define spirally shaped longitudinal ribs. Also disclosed is a method for producing the tampon.
US09125768B2

A hygiene tissue (1), such as a wet wipe, dry wipe, washcloth, patch, towelette, napkin, and the like includes a microbe-inhibiting composition (8). The microbe-inhibiting composition (8) includes an extracellular product of at least one probiotic bacterium and at least one additive in the form of an organic acid, with at least one of its pKa value not exceeding 5.5, and/or a salt thereof.
US09125763B2

A stent crimping tool insert comprises a core body configured for insertion into and removal from within a crimping chamber of a stent crimping tool. The core body has a core surface configured to withstand a compressive force without a reduction in diameter of the core surface.
US09125749B2

The present disclosure relates to a device for repairing a patient patella. The device comprises a patellar trial piece and a patellar implant. The patellar trial piece has selectable variable weights to correct mechanical properties of the patient patella. Such mechanical properties to be corrected include a moment of inertia and/or a center of gravity of the patient patella. The patellar implant has embedded weights correspond to the variable weights of the patellar trial piece. In one embodiment, the patellar trial piece has a plurality of variable weights to be inserted into a plurality of holes in the patellar trial piece. The weights are made of different materials. In another embodiment, the patellar trial piece has a rounded top surface and a substantially flat bottom surface with a plurality of pegs. The pegs are selected from pegs with variable weights that are made of different materials.
US09125745B2

A jaw-thrust device includes a base with an extension arm disposed on each side of a patient's head mounted on the base. A mandible rest is mounted on each extension arm such that the mandible rest may be deployed proximate to a patient's mandible. A chin pad and at least one connector connects the chin strap to at least one of the base or extension arm; whereby jaw thrusting pressure on the mandible rests causes rotational force on the chin straps such that the patient's mouth opens without substantially tilting the patient's head. The device maintains an open airway unattended.
US09125743B2

The present invention is directed toward recellularizing a devitalized cartilage graft with viable recellularizable cells in vivo, in situ, or in vitro to render the tissue vital. The present invention is also directed toward repairing a cartilage defect and implanting a cartilage graft into a human or animal by crafting a cartilage matrix into individual grafts, disinfecting and cleaning the cartilage graft, applying a pretreatment solution to the cartilage graft, removing cellular debris using an extracting solution to produce a devitalized cartilage graft, recellularizing the devitalized cartilage graft, implanting the cartilage graft into the cartilage defect with or without an insertion device, and sealing the implanted cartilage graft with recipient tissue. The devitalized cartilage graft is optionally stored between the removing cellular debris and the recellularizing steps. The present invention is directed to both recellularized cartilage grafts as well as a process for recellularizing cartilage grafts.
US09125741B2

A quick-connect heart valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The heart valve may include a substantially non-expandable, non-compressible prosthetic valve and a plastically-expandable frame, thereby enabling attachment to the annulus without sutures. A system and method for deployment includes an integrated handle shaft and balloon catheter. A safety member disposed between the balloon catheter and handle shaft prevents premature catheter advancement prior to heart valve placement at the annulus, and also may prevent premature balloon inflation prior to full catheter advancement.
US09125734B2

An artificial retina that includes: (i) a substrate; (ii) a first layer, placed onto said substrate and including photovoltaic material portions separated by at least one insulating material portion; and (iii) a second layer, placed onto said first layer and including conductive material portions separated by at least one insulating material portion. In said artificial retina, the photovoltaic material includes a titanium dioxide semiconductor.
US09125730B2

An orthopedic device is arranged for dynamically treating the knee. The device includes a hinge assembly, a frame having an upper cuff and a lower cuff spaced apart from and connected by the hinge assembly, and a dynamic shell connected to the frame and extending along the first side of the brace. An adjustment system is connected to the dynamic shell and includes a tensioning element operatively engaging the shell and the hinge assembly. The adjustment system is arranged to increase and decrease tension in the tensioning element. The dynamic shell is arranged to be drawn toward the frontal plane as the orthopedic device goes from an extension orientation to a flexion orientation.
US09125723B2

Methods and devices for adjusting or configuring the flow rate of an intraocular shunt are provided whereby hypotony can be avoided by increasing the flow rate through the device. In some embodiments, the device is a shunt that can have a first flow that can be modified to a second flow by modifying the shunt, such as by cutting the shunt. Additionally, one or more dissolvable portions can be present to provide an initial flow restriction and subsequent increase in flow over time.
US09125714B2

The transmission according to the invention for an electric toothbrush serves for the transmission and reforming of a rotational movement provided by an electric motor into a particularly careful and effective cleaning movement of a cleaning element. The ratio of the distance between the longitudinal mid-axis of an output shaft and the longitudinal mid-axis of a drive shaft of the transmission and of the distance between the longitudinal mid-axis of a shaft driving a cam of the transmission and the longitudinal mid-axis of the cam amounts to at least 10:1.
US09125705B2

An orthopedic device includes an implant member with a thru-bore having an entry diameter, an intermediate diameter, and an exit diameter. According to one embodiment the intermediate diameter of the thru-bore is larger than both the entry diameter and the exit diameter. Additionally, the orthopedic device includes a screw assembly configured to be coupled to the thru-bore, including a thread portion and a selectively expandable head portion. The selectively expandable head portion includes both an expandable ring and a pull-lock pin configured to selectively expand the expandable ring as the pull-lock pin is pulled from said screw assembly.
US09125701B2

A subtalar implant (1) for stabilizing the subtalar joint in the human foot includes a longitudinal axis (L) extending between a front end (13) and a rear end (14), wherein a first anchor portion (2) is arranged to the side of the longitudinal axis (L) and a second anchor portion (3) is arranged to the side of the longitudinal axis (L). In accordance with the invention, a spreading mechanism (5) to spread apart the implant as a result of relative displacement of the first and second anchor portion (2, 3) at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) are provided.
US09125682B2

A method of accessing target tissue adjacent to a spinal nerve of a patient includes the steps of accessing a spine location of the patient by entering the patient through the skin at an access location, inserting a flexible tissue modification device through the access location to the spine location, advancing a distal portion of the first flexible tissue modification device from the spine location to a first exit location, passing through the first exit location and out of the patient, advancing the first or a second flexible tissue modification device through the same access location to the spine location and to a second exit location, and passing through the second exit location and out of the patient.
US09125670B1

An orthopedic bone cutter for cutting bone and tissue is described. The cutting device has a frame on which cutting blades are affixed. The frame is designed with sidewalls that are positioned at an angular relationship with respect to a rotational axis that extends vertically through the cutting device. The cutting blades have a hemispherical side profile with a cutting surface extending from a curved outer distal blade end. The blades are affixed to the frame such that an apex of each of the cutting blades is coincident with the rotational axis at an apex point of the bone cutter.
US09125665B2

A sphincter tissue region is treated using a support structure sized for advancement into the anal canal. At least one electrode is carried by the structure. A mechanism is coupled to the electrode to move the electrode between a first position retracted in the support structure and a second position extended from the support structure through surface tissue to penetrate a subsurface tissue region at or near a sphincter in the anal canal. A cable is coupled to the electrode to conduct energy for application by the electrode to form a lesion in the subsurface tissue region.
US09125664B2

A jaw member for use with an electrosurgical forceps includes a support member having a first surface and a pair of depending sides which extend therefrom forming a generally U-shaped configuration. The free end of the sides each including a flange which extends outwardly therefrom which is designed to attach to an electrically conductive plate such that the plate bridge the two flanges to enclose the U-shaped support member to form a box-like skeleton having a cavity defined therein. An insulative material is disposed within the cavity and an insulative cover is disposed about a periphery of the box-like support skeleton to insulate surrounding tissue during activation of the conductive plate.
US09125661B2

Methods and apparatus are provided for renal neuromodulation using a pulsed electric field to effectuate electroporation or electrofusion. It is expected that renal neuromodulation (e.g., denervation) may, among other things, reduce expansion of an acute myocardial infarction, reduce or prevent the onset of morphological changes that are affiliated with congestive heart failure, and/or be efficacious in the treatment of end stage renal disease. Embodiments of the present invention are configured for percutaneous intravascular delivery of pulsed electric fields to achieve such neuromodulation.
US09125659B2

A vascular occluding device for modifying blood flow in a vessel, while maintaining blood flow to the surrounding tissue. The occluding device includes a flexible, easily compressible and bendable occluding device that is particularly suited for treating aneurysms in the brain. The neurovascular occluding device can be deployed using a micro-catheter. The occluding device can be formed by braiding wires in a helical fashion and can have varying lattice densities along the length of the occluding device. The occluding device could also have different lattice densities for surfaces on the same radial plane.
US09125655B2

The present invention provides methods and modalities that can modify wave reflection in the vascular system in order to create constructive interactions between existing wave dynamics and new reflective waves for the purpose of lowering the workload on the heart and increasing cardiac output, providing a viable option for the prevention and treatment of many heart conditions and diseases.
US09125651B2

A surgical instrument includes a body, a removable insert including a measurement indicator, and an end effector positioned at a distal end of the body. The end effector has a distal interior surface facing a proximal end of the body. The end effector is configured to receive the insert. An actuation feature is in communication with the end effector and the insert when the insert is received in the end effector. The actuation feature is configured to advance the insert distally toward the distal interior surface of the end effector. The measurement indicator of the removable insert is configured to determine the thickness of tissue positioned between the removable insert and the distal interior surface of the end effector. Based on the measured tissue thickness, a user selects a cartridge configured to at least staple (and perhaps also sever) the measured tissue. The cartridge is received within the end effector.
US09125650B2

Apparatus and methods for forming pilot holes in bone and deploying a staple therein for fixing a sheet-like implant to the bone. A pilot hole forming trocar assembly including a trocar and a position retention sleeve can be included. The trocar can be releasably coupled to the position retention sleeve and slide in keyed arrangement within the sleeve when uncoupled. The trocar can include a distal portion having a retractable blade and a pair of pilot hole forming spikes extending distally from the trocar shaft. Once the pilot holes are formed, the position retention sleeve maintains the position relative to the pilot holes while the trocar is removed and a staple delivery device can be inserted in the lumen of the position retention sleeve to deploy a staple in the pilot holes.
US09125646B2

A surgical needle includes a pair of ends, a mid-region extending between the ends, and at least one grasping feature configured for grasping by a suturing instrument. An end of a suture is secured to the mid-region of the needle in a manner such that the end of the suture defines an oblique angle with at least part of the centerline defined by the mid-region of the needle. The end of the suture may be disposed in a hollow portion of the needle. The grasping feature may include a notch such as a scallop. The suture may be pivotally coupled with the needle via a ball or pin. The needle may have one or more sharp points. The sharp point may include three converging cutting edges, at least two planar surfaces bounded by the three cutting edges, and a rounded surface bounded by two of the three cutting edges.
US09125644B2

A suturing device of the present invention is in the form a compact, light-weight handheld device that includes a needle and suture assembly, a mechanism for gripping and releasing the needle/suture (a “needle transfer mechanism” or “needle shuttle mechanism”), safely capturing the needle/suture upon exit from the patient's tissue, and returning the needle to a position such that the process of delivering additional sutures to the patient can be repeated. A safety shield mechanism ensures the user is protected from the needle at all times. The device of the present invention accommodates the right or left-handed user, rests comfortably in the user's hand, allows sufficient visualization of the procedure site, and permits the user to either control penetration depth of the needle or default to a device-determined depth. The present device permits the user to utilize a wrist-rotation (pivoting) suture delivery technique.
US09125640B2

A biopsy device includes a first cannula having a first aperture, a second cannula having a second aperture, and a driver unit. The second cannula is disposed co-axially with the first cannula. At least one of the first aperture and the second aperture has a cutting edge. The driver unit has a ratchet drive mechanism operatively coupled to the first cannula and the second cannula. The ratchet drive mechanism includes a first gear fixedly attached to the first cannula. A second gear is fixedly attached to the second cannula. A torsion spring has a first end portion connected to the first gear and a second end portion connected to the second gear. The torsion spring stores energy which when released drivably rotates one of the first gear and the second gear relative to the other of the first gear and the second gear.
US09125629B2

The present invention is a Miniature Vein Enhancer that includes a Miniature Projection Head. The Miniature Projection Head may be operated in one of three modes, AFM, DEM, and RTM. The Miniature Projection Head of the present invention projects an image of the veins of a patient, which aids the practitioner in pinpointing a vein for an intravenous drip, blood test, and the like. The Miniature projection head may have a cavity for a power source or it may have a power source located in a body portion of the Miniature Vein Enhancer. The Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to one of several improved needle protectors, or the Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to a body similar to a flashlight for hand held use. The Miniature Vein Enhancer of the present invention may also be attached to a magnifying glass, a flat panel display, and the like.
US09125626B2

Provided is a light measurement device capable of obtaining reproducible measurement data without the necessity for bringing a subject into the state of performance of a task such as finger movement many times, the measurement data having no variation and less affected by Mayer Wave and the like caused by respiration, blood pressure, and the like other than the performance of the task. Specifically provided is a light measurement device (1) which is provided with a light transmission/reception unit controller (4) for acquiring received light amount information relating to a measurement site of the brain of a subject and a calculation unit (31) for calculating the amount of change in hemoglobin concentration, and obtains measurement data indicating the change with lapse of time in the variation amount of hemoglobin concentration during the execution of a task period in which the subject is being continuously loaded, the light measurement device being characterized by being provided with a biomonitor (60) which is disposed on the surface of the skin of the subject and detects biological information relating to the heartbeat, blood pressure, or respiration of the subject, a biomonitor control unit (32) for obtaining the biological information from the biomonitor (60), and a task period start time determination unit (35) for determining the start time of the task period on the basis of the biological information.
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