US09175685B2
A liquid ring pump having a channel including a first opening which opens into a first bucket formed by rotor blades. The first opening is located along an arcuate path between a closing edge of an inlet port and a leading edge of a discharge port The inlet port and discharge port are in a port plate of the liquid ring pump. The channel has a second opening which opens into a second bucket formed by rotor blades The second opening is on an arcuate path between a closing edge of the discharge port and a leading edge of the inlet port. A fluid pathway interconnects the first and second openings. At least a portion of the liquid ring pump forming the channel is disposed in a circumferential cylindrical cavity, wherein the cavity is formed from a plurality of axially extending rotor blade ends.
US09175678B2
A tube pump comprises a rotor configured to have a roller and to hold the roller to be able to make an orbital motion along the inner circumferential surface of the cap. The rotor includes a disk part which holds the roller on a base side, and a tube press member that engages with the disk part so that the tube does not move to the base side with respect to the disk part, seals a gap formed with respect to the inner circumferential surface of the cap, and is capable of rotating along an outer circumferential part of the disk part is provided at the outer circumferential part of the disk part.
US09175668B2
A hub for a rotor of a wind turbine is disclosed. The hub includes a hollow body rotatable around a rotation axis. The hollow body includes a blade flange and defines a blade flange area surrounded by the blade flange. The hollow body further includes a main shaft flange defining a first end, and a second end opposite the first end. The hub further includes a stiffening web extending within the blade flange area and defining a web plane. A side profile of the web plane extends from the first end to the second end is oriented at a cone angle to the rotation axis.
US09175664B2
An apparatus is provided for harnessing ocean wave energy, wherein the apparatus relieves excessive loadings on components to avoid damage thereof in adverse wave conditions. The apparatus includes a buoyant actuator and a pump anchored within the body of water. Fluid at high pressure is pumped ashore by the pump, energy is extracted as useful work at an on-shore plant, and the resultant reduced pressure fluid is returned to the offshore pump to be re-energized. The buoyant actuator is operably connected to the pump by tether and is buoyantly suspended within the body of water above the pump. The buoyant actuator is provided with a connector that includes a damping mechanism configured to maintain a substantially rigid connection between the hollow body and the tether until such time as loading therebetween exceeds a prescribed load whereupon the damping mechanism facilitates limited relative movement therebetween to relieve the loading.
US09175659B2
A drive train (1) of a motor vehicle has an internal combustion engine (2) with a crankshaft (6). A transmission (3) is connected downstream for driving at least one axle (5) of the motor vehicle. A starter generator (9) is attached to the crankshaft (6) of the internal combustion engine (2) via a spur gear mechanism (10). The spur gear mechanism (10) has a first drive train (11) with a switchable clutch (12) and a second drive train (13) with a switchable clutch or a freewheel (14) that is active during the starter mode of the starter generator (9). In a drive train of this type, the components for transmitting the torque of the starter generator (9) require only little space and, during starting, the crankshaft (6) of the internal combustion engine is decoupled from tensile forces and weights which would be observed when a belt drive is used.
US09175649B2
A remote computing device communicates bi-directionally with an on-board computing device disposed in a combustion engine vehicle, wherein the on-board computing device controls a fuel pump of the vehicle. The remote computing device queries for and receives data about the vehicle from the on-board computing device, such as the Vehicle Identification Number, diagnostic information about the vehicle, and/or data about how the vehicle is being driven.
US09175648B2
An intake silencer device is described herein. The intake silencer device includes an outer housing and a plurality of sequential arranged expansion chambers separated by walls. The intake silencer device further includes an inner tube positioned in each of the sequential chambers, each of the inner tubes including an opening providing fluidic communication between an interior of the tube and the corresponding expansion chamber, a size of the openings increasing in size sequentially in a downstream direction.
US09175646B2
In an EGR valve, a valve element is seatable on a valve seat by stroke movement of a valve stem caused by an actuator. The valve seat has a cylindrical part with which a step of the stem is engageable. By the stroke movement of the valve stem, the opening degree between the valve seat and the valve element is changed. The valve seat is moved in the passage in the stroke movement direction to be engageable with a shoulder of the passage. As the valve element is moved together with the stem, the opening degree in the low opening range is changed. As the step of the stem is engaged with the cylindrical part and the valve seat is moved with respect to the shoulder, the opening degree in the high opening range is changed.
US09175641B2
An internal combustion engine that uses stratification of gasses for compressing air is disclosed. The engine uses a combustion chamber that delivers products of combustion into an elongated compression chamber to drive the products of combustion against resident air within the elongated compression chamber, and push the resident air into a compressed air chamber. After driving the resident air into the compressed air chamber, the products of combustion are used with work-producing devices. Air is then driven into the compression chamber by an air pump or low-pressure compressor to once again fill the compression chamber with fresh air. The air in the compressed air chamber is then delivered to the combustion chamber and used for combustion. Fuel is delivered to the combustion chamber by a fuel injector, and ignited by the heat of the compressed air and/or a glow plug, spark plug, or similar ignition device.
US09175633B2
A motor vehicle has an internal combustion engine and at least one electric motor as a drive motor arranged on a common shaft. The internal combustion engine and/or the electric motor can introduce torque into a transmission downstream in the drivetrain, and a separating clutch is provided between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. The method increases torque of the electric machine, increasing the rotational speed of the electric machine and setting slip conditions at a clutch of the downstream transmission, engaging the separating clutch to a torque between the reserve torque of the electric motor and the maximum transmissible torque, reducing the transmissible torque of the separating clutch when the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine has reached the ignition rotational speed, ending the slip conditions of the at least one clutch of the downstream transmission, ending the increase of the torque of the electric motor.
US09175632B2
An engine start control apparatus for a hybrid vehicle includes: an engine start control section configured to crank the engine by using the motor as a starter motor while the hydraulic clutch is slip-engaged when the discharge pressure from the oil pump is ensured by driving the motor, when the engine is started after an ignition switch is switched to an ON state, the engine start control section being configured to drive the oil pump by the motor at a no load during a predetermined time period after the engine is stopped when the ignition switch is in an OFF state.
US09175624B2
A system and method for controlling an exhaust gas recirculation valve during transient cycles of engine operation to improve fuel consumption efficiency. The system and method includes first determining a flow rate of total mass out of the intake manifold of the combustion engine and the current mass fraction of exhaust gas in the intake manifold of the combustion engine, calculating a mass flow rate for exhaust gas into the intake manifold that is based on the flow rate of total mass out of the intake manifold and the current mass fraction of exhaust gas in the intake manifold, and actuating a control valve to a position based on the calculated mass flow rate for exhaust gas into the intake manifold.
US09175618B2
An engine of a vehicle is provided with an engine control device including an idle speed control (ISC) device provided for an intake bypass passage connecting an upper side and a lower side of a throttle valve installed in an intake passage so as to control an idle speed of the engine by adjusting an amount of air flowing through the intake bypass passage at a time of idling of the engine. The engine control device includes a throttle opening degree sensor disposed in the intake passage and configured to detect a degree of opening of the throttle valve, an intake pressure sensor disposed in the intake passage and configured to detect an intake negative pressure at the lower side of the throttle valve, and a control unit configured to control an output of the engine. The control unit is configured to perform an engine output suppression control of suppressing the output of the engine after determining that an ISC valve of the ISC device is abnormal in a case where the degree of opening of the throttle valve detected by the throttle opening degree sensor is within a predetermined range and when the intake negative pressure detected by the intake pressure sensor is low compared with a threshold value.
US09175613B2
A variety of methods and devices for controlling the operation of the intake and exhaust valves in an internal combustion engine during skip fire operation are described. In various embodiments, an exhaust valve monitor or other suitable mechanism is used to detect exhaust valve actuation faults. When an exhaust valve actuation fault is detected for a particular cylinder, the corresponding intake valve is deactivated (or not activated) in circumstances when it would otherwise be activated in order to prevent the intake valve from opening into a cylinder that contains high pressure combustion gases. The described approach is particularly beneficial when skip fire operation is combined with cylinder deactivation so that air is not pumped through the cylinders during the skipped working cycles.
US09175606B2
A method for flushing a section of a fuel system of a burner of a gas turbine is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a feed line for feeding fuel from a fuel source to the burner, providing a first feed point close to the burner and a second feed point remote from the burner in the feed line in each case for feeding a medium into the feed line, feeding the medium via the first feed point, and discharging, via the burner, the fuel which is in the feed line between the first feed point and the burner, and also feeding the medium via the second feed point, and discharging, via the first feed point, the fuel which is in the feed line between the second feed point and the first feed point.
US09175603B1
An internal combustion engine includes a piston assembly with a piston rotatably connected to a pin carrier. The piston can rotate about a cylinder axis from a low compression ratio orientation to a high compression ratio orientation when an electronically controlled pump of a compression ratio controlled fluid circuit is activated. The piston includes a plurality of first wedges in contact with a plurality of respective second wedges of the pin carrier in a hydraulic chamber. The first wedges have hydraulic surfaces exposed to fluid pressure in the hydraulic chamber in order to hydraulically rotate the piston relative to the pin carrier. The engine may be configured to burn diesel fuel and natural gas.
US09175600B2
An engine protection system and methods for preventing intake condensation are disclosed. In a system and various of the methods, an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve is positioned within an EGR passage fluidly connecting an engine exhaust stream and an engine intake stream, while a waste heat recovery (WHR) system is used to recover heat from the EGR stream. An engine control unit (ECU) is coupled to various sensors and valves to divert working fluid from the WHR system from cooling the EGR exhaust flow below a level which favors production of condensation in the engine intake system. The ECU operates to divert working fluid flow when sensors indicate characteristics of either the exhaust flow or the intake stream which might lead to heavy condensation. A three-way valve is also used to divert the working fluid to a variable expansion valve fluidly coupled to the three-way valve in response to a signal from one of the sensors to prevent damage to the system turbine.
US09175595B2
An engine oil system for an internal combustion engine comprises an electronic control module, an oil viscosity sensor, am engine oil cooler, and an oil cooler flow control valve. The oil viscosity sensor is disposed in communication with the electronic control module. The electronic control module determines a viscosity of oil within the engine oil system based upon an output of the oil viscosity sensor. The oil cooler flow control valve is disposed in communication with the electronic control module. The oil cooler flow control valve is positionable between an open and closed position to regulate coolant flow to the engine oil cooler based upon an output of the electronic control module. The electronic control module moves the oil cooler flow control valve based upon the determined viscosity of the oil.
US09175582B1
An engine system and method for variable valve lift (VVL) diagnostic techniques are provided. In one exemplary implementation, the techniques include receiving, at a controller, a camshaft position signal indicative of detected edges of teeth of a camshaft toothed member that is coupled to a camshaft of an engine. The camshaft is configured to actuate a VVL system, which is configured to control a lift of a valve of the engine. The techniques also include calculating, at the controller, a camshaft speed signal indicative of a rotational speed of the camshaft based on the camshaft position signal. A valve stuck index (VSI) value is then calculated, at the controller, based on the camshaft speed signal. The techniques also include determining, at the controller, whether the valve is stuck based on a comparison of the VSI value to a predetermined threshold.
US09175579B2
A shroud segment for a gas turbine engine, the shroud segment constructed from a composite material including reinforcing fibers embedded in a matrix, and having a cross-sectional shape defined by opposed forward and aft walls, and opposed inner and outer walls, the walls extending between opposed first and second end faces, wherein the inner wall defines an arcuate inner flowpath surface; and wherein a compound fillet is disposed at a junction between first and second ones of the walls, the compound fillet including first and second portions, the second portion having a concave curvature extending into the first one of the walls.
US09175576B2
A turbomachine, particularly a steam turbine, is provided. The turbomachine includes a machine housing and a shaft, which is guided through and guided out of the machine housing, at least on one side, wherein at least one annular gap present between the shaft and the machine housing is sealed by way of a shaft sealing assembly, wherein the shaft sealing assembly includes at least one radial double seal having two pairs of sealing surface pairs, which are spaced apart substantially radially and between which an annular sealing liquid chamber is formed, which can be supplied with sealing liquid via a sealing liquid feed line, wherein each sealing surface pair has an annular rotating sealing surface and an annular non-rotating sealing surface, which are arranged substantially axially opposite of each other and prestressed with respect to each other.
US09175574B2
An energy converting machine includes a guide vane. The guide vane includes a guide vane body for guiding a streaming fluid. The guide vane body has a pressure surface and a suction surface, a trailing edge and a leading edge, and a winglet for reducing leakage of the streaming fluid from the pressure surface to the suction surface. The winglet is arranged at a longitudinal end of the guide vane body. The winglet extents from the trailing edge to the leading edge and is arranged at the pressure surface. The winglet is free of protrusions beyond the leading edge and beyond the trailing edge.
US09175573B2
A dovetail attachment seal for a turbomachine includes an outer seal member having a first end that extends to a second end through an intermediate portion, and at least one articulating element encapsulated, at least in part, by the outer seal member at one of the first and second ends. The at least one articulating element is slidingly disposed within the outer seal member.
US09175569B2
A turbine airfoil includes pressure and suction sidewalls extending along a span from a base to a tip. Spanwise spaced apart trailing edge cooling holes in the pressure sidewall end at corresponding spanwise spaced apart trailing edge cooling slots extending chordally substantially to the trailing edge. Each cooling hole includes in downstream serial cooling flow relationship, a curved inlet, a constant area and constant width metering section, and a spanwise diverging section leading into the trailing edge cooling slot, and a spanwise height substantially greater than a hole width through the cooling hole. A pressure sidewall surface of the pressure sidewall may be planar through the metering and diverging sections. The width may be constant through the metering and diverging sections. A raised floor may include a flat up ramp in the diverging section, a flat down ramp in the slot.
US09175568B2
A method is provided for manufacturing a turbine component. The method includes forming a first intermediate turbine article with an additive manufacturing process; encapsulating the first intermediate turbine article with an encapsulation layer to form a second intermediate turbine article; and consolidating the second intermediate turbine article to produce the turbine component.
US09175565B2
A seal in a turbine of a combustion turbine engine is described. The seal is formed within a trench cavity defined between a rotor blade and a stator blade. The stator blade includes a sidewall projection and the rotor blade includes an angel wing projection extending toward the stator blade. The side wall projection overhangs the angel wing projection. The seal include: a port disposed on an inboard surface of the stator projection; and deflecting structure disposed on the angel wing projection. The deflecting structure may be configured to receive the fluid expelled from the port and deflect the fluid toward an inlet of the trench cavity.
US09175562B2
A rotary engine is provided. The engine has a main body that fits within a housing to form an annular chamber. A piston moves within the annular chamber along an annular path. A door assembly operates to block and unblock the annular chamber, opening to unblock the chamber as the piston approaches the door and closes to block the chamber after the piston has travelled past the door. A temporary combustion chamber is formed between the closed door and the piston as the piston moves away from the door.
US09175559B2
Systems and methods identify and/or detect one or more features of a well casing by utilizing one or more downhole measurements obtainable by a downhole component. The one or more features of the well casing are identifiable and/or detectable from the one or more measurements associated with one or more properties of the one or more features of the well casing. The one or more measurements for indentifying and/or detecting a presence and/or a location of the one or more features of the well casing include sonic measurements, nuclear measurements, gamma ray measurements, photoelectric measurements, resistivity measurements and/or combinations thereof.
US09175553B2
A perforating system having annular connectors for attachment between adjacent perforating guns and connectors. The connectors include male and female connectors with respective outer and inner contact surfaces. The connectors also include attachment for electrical detonators and/or booster charges for transferring ballistic detonations between the perforating gun and connector sub.
US09175551B2
According to one aspect, an apparatus is adapted to be operably coupled to a subsea blowout preventer and includes a first tubular member defining an internal passage, and a second tubular member extending within the internal passage. A sealing assembly is disposed radially between the first and second tubular members, and includes a sealing element. The second tubular member covers the sealing element and thus facilitates protecting the sealing element from any fluid flow through the internal passage. According to another aspect, a sealing element of a connector is protected before engaging the connector with a subsea casing. The connector is engaged with the casing while the sealing element is protected so that the sealing element is fluidically isolated from any fluid flow through the connector. The sealing element sealingly engages the casing.
US09175548B1
A fluid transfer system for an oil drilling rig which generally includes a portable housing container which includes a pump, a manifold, an air compressor and a pressure washer. The manifold will generally include three inlets, with a first inlet connected to a drilling rig, a second inlet connected to a first storage tank such as a water tank, and the third inlet connected to a second storage tank such as an invert tank. The pump is connected to the manifold to transfer mixed fluids back out the drilling rig. The air compressor is linked to the manifold flow blowing out the fluid conduits prior to transfer of the container or to prevent spillage. The pressure washer may be used to clean various components at the drilling site. The present invention is fully portable such that it may easily be packed up and transferred between multiple drilling sites for use.
US09175536B2
An open-ended pipe engagement device with a saddle portion that attaches around an open pipe, a structural platform comprising a tapering plug, support bars to prevent dislodgement of the device and threaded rods to winch the platform and plug onto the pipe end to be sealed. The device provides a means to safely cap and plug a leaking pipe end and allow the pipe to resume normal activity thereafter. The saddle portion provides a structural a base from which the plug and associated platform are positioned and winched into place, counteracting any fluid pressure exiting the leaking pipe. The plug comprises a tapering and conforming structure with a centrally located through hole for which to direct fluid as the platform is lowered and once the plug is engaged. Above the plug and through the platform is a section of pipe for which to direct the leaking fluid after the apparatus has been secured to the end of the pipe, effectively controlling the leak and allowing normal operation of the well to resume.
US09175528B2
A method and system for lifting drilling mud from subsea to a drilling vessel includes a pump having a body with a chamber, and a bladder in the chamber. The bladder spans the chamber to define water and mud sides in the chamber. A mud inlet valve allows mud into the mud side of the chamber; which moves the bladder into the water side and urges water from the water side of the chamber through a water exit valve. Pressurized water enters the chamber through a water inlet valve, which in turn pushes the bladder and mud from the chamber through a mud exit valve. The bladder separates the mud and water as it reciprocates in the chamber. A pressure control circuit equalizes pressure across the water valves, and a control valve provides a back pressure in a discharge of the pressure control circuit.
US09175527B2
A method and apparatus for facilitating running or pulling tubulars from a well bore whereby the manual operations or functions normally performed by a human are undertaken by the THD and may including remote control or manipulation. The THD comprises an elevator assembly (THD) with a main body consisting of upper and lower plates, a scissor assembly and multiple sized die blocks to conform to the tubular diameter. The THD can be used as a transfer elevator to position the tubular for engagement by the make-up assembly, can be outfitted to perform as a safety clamp or restraining device and also configured as a tubular stabbing arm as required by the operation.
US09175525B2
A manipulator device (4) arranged to move a hose manifold (13) as one or more hoses (12) is/are being connected to and disconnected from pipelines (11) arranged on a marine riser (1), the manipulator (4) being fixed to an undercarriage (3) which is movable relative to a working well (21).
US09175522B2
A barrier connector arrangement (20) for a multi-pipe pipeline (14) for use in a subsea environment, the pipeline (14) comprising at least one inner pipe (12) and an outer pipe (11) having a dry annulus (13) thereinbetween, and one or more cables (50, 51) extending along the annulus (13), the connector arrangement (20) comprising: an outer housing (21) configured to be joined to the outer pipe (11) to define a dry interior housing with the annulus (13); and one or more dry barrier chambers (26, 27) extending through and welded to the housing (21) for connecting one or more of the cables (50, 51) in the pipeline (14) with one or more external cables in the subsea environment.
US09175518B2
An anchoring system for a tool in a borehole is provided. The anchoring system comprising a tool body, anchoring members which are operable to extend from the tool body so as to deploy an anchor portion into contact with the borehole wall such that when deployed. The anchoring members act to support the tool body in a central region of the borehole. Moreover, the anchoring members are connected to an operating mechanism which links deployment of the anchoring members so as to distribute the anchoring force and position of the anchoring members in a controlled manner.
US09175516B2
A downhole motor for drilling and servicing of wells has an elongated outer housing and an elongated mandrel rotatably disposed within the housing. A primary thrust bearing is disposed between the lower end of the housing and the mandrel, and transfers axial loads downward from the housing to the mandrel, and then to the drill bit or other tool mounted on the lowermost end of the mandrel. The placement of the primary thrust bearing permits it to extend radially to the outer diameter of the housing. One preferred embodiment of the primary thrust bearing comprises bearing surfaces of polycrystalline diamond compact (“PDC”) material.
US09175503B2
A pin lock device for securing an article, including a lock base and a removable lock device that locks to the lock base. A plurality of control pins disposed in pin bores that communicate with a mounting post through tumbler channels. Alignment of recesses in the control pins releases the locking device from the post. The locking device allows the user to secure an article, such as a handgun, on the post in a secure and accessible manner.
US09175502B2
A resettable lock assembly is provided having features that indicate when the lock is in reset mode or normal-use mode. The lock assembly may include a reset knob operable in a first rotational position and a second rotational position. When the reset knob is in the first rotational position, the lock assembly is in a reset mode and a visual indicator is visible.
US09175499B2
A handle assembly of a lock includes a handle, a sleeve, a stopper and an engaging member, wherein the handle comprises an accommodating slot, a lodge hole and a penetrating hole. The sleeve is disposed at the accommodating slot along the direction of a major axis and comprises a through hole. The stopper is disposed at the sleeve and protrudes to the sleeve via the through hole of the sleeve. Owing to the through hole corresponded to the lodge hole, the stopper is lodged in the lodge hole of the handle. The engaging member is disposed in the accommodating slot and adjustably movable along the direction of a transverse axis so that the handle and the sleeve are steadily engaged from each other.
US09175497B1
A holder securely holds a canopy shade system for providing protection from sun or rain for a worker or during recreation. The holder is attached to a vehicle's trailer hitch via a receiver tube. A cross arm passes through the receiver tuber and is positionable between a squared position with respect to the receiver tube and an angled position. Telescoping extension arms extend outwardly from each end of the cross arm with a leg located on the distal end of each extension arm, each leg capable of holding an implement such as the canopy shade system.
US09175496B2
A sun shading device having a shading canopy, a back shading panel, attached to legs. The legs and canopies are collapsible. The underside of the shading canopy includes a viewable electronic device holder for holding devices such as touch screen tablet computers or other device having a view screen. The shading canopy and the back shading panel of the sun shading device provide a shaded alcove in which a user can lie on his or her back to view an electronic device screen secured to the underside of the shading canopy.
US09175495B1
A gravestone marker that includes a viewing chamber for receiving photographs and other small objects such as memorabilia honoring the deceased that includes a cement base frame with a hollow interior of a predetermined size and shape for placing on a concrete slab above the grave of the deceased, and a sheet of transparent bulletproof material that can be glass or plastic permanently attached by concrete epoxy adhesive to the concrete base frame forming a chamber beneath the transparent sheet. The chamber can receive photographs and other objects that can be viewed by persons standing at the gravesite. The strength of the transparent sheet of material can prevent vandalism or theft at the gravesite.
US09175492B2
The present invention provides a wind generator tower and a process for assembly thereof. A truncated conical tower assembled from reinforced concrete modules disposes of a tensioning system which provides greater resistance to the same and, in turn, the joints defined between the modules which form the tower are sealed.
US09175490B2
To provide a seismic isolation apparatus which, as well as widening an applicable shaking range, can be easily configured and is low in height, a seismic isolation apparatus is configured of a low friction combination formed by a point contact between a planar hard base plate, which has a surface on which are disposed at least three convexly curved projections of a uniform height, and a glide plate which is a smooth, hard, flat plate.
US09175487B2
The invention relates to a self-climbing perimetric protection system with at least one module comprising two masts (1) spaced out from one another and formed by two vertical channel irons (1) with U-shaped cross section between which pairs of support elements (6, 7) are immobilized in different horizontal planes; a protection panel (2) attached to the masts; pairs of anchors (4) comprised by respective anchoring frames (11) coupled to guiding heads (10) each comprising two mobile horizontal claws (16) which, in the closed position, brace the mast (1); and a rotational bearing rocker (13, 13′) in a vertical plane between a position in which its front part (13) is rotated and supports a support element (6, 7) and a position in which it is rotated downwardly in which it allows the passage of the support elements (6, 7), the pairs of anchors being immobilized at different heights in a part of a building (5, 9) in which they support a pair of support elements (6, 7).
US09175485B2
The present invention concerns a tension member feeding device for feeding a tension member into a channel in a construction element. The feeding device comprises: tension member feeder and a resistance or speed detector. The feeding device is arranged to stop feeding of the tension member once the resistance or speed detector detects that the tension member meets a given resistance.
US09175475B2
The invention relates to a panel with complementary locking means provided in pairs on opposite panel edges. One of the locking means is hook profiles with a receiving hook and a locking hook. The fee step end of the locking hook is designed narrower than the width of the receiving opening of the receiving hook. The locking contour of the locking hook protrudes at least partially past the plane of the joint surface of the receiving hook so that the free step end fits into the receiving opening far enough at first that a part of the horizontal locking surface of the locking hook makes contact with the horizontal locking surface of the receiving hook during a joining motion without elastic deformation of the hook profiles, and that the receiving hook bends so that the width of the receiving opening con be expanded so that the locking step can be inserted entirely I to the receiving recess and the locking contour of the locking hook is further inserted into a form-fit contour of the receiving hook.
US09175473B2
A ceiling structure includes a suspended framework having a plurality of main runners and a plurality of cross runners interconnected to define an array of tile receiving openings and a plurality of ceiling tiles positioned within the array of tile receiving openings, each of the plurality of ceiling tiles having a plurality of magnets positioned at a peripheral portion thereof which are configured to magnetically couple the ceiling tile within a respective one of the tile receiving openings with the ceiling tile abutting a respective mounting frame. Related methods are also provided.
US09175470B2
Disclosed are a prefabricated thermal insulating composite panel (1), an assembly thereof, a molded panel and a concrete slab comprising the same, and a method and a mold profile (50) for prefabricating the same. The prefabricated composite thermal insulating panel (1) comprises: two reinforcing protective layers (7) of an inorganic noncombustible material, a core (9) formed by a thermal insulating material, a frame (2) with installation grooves (13) surrounding the core (9) and being secured onto the core (9), with the core (9) being placed between the two reinforcing protective layers (7). The prefabricated thermal insulating composite panel (1) has the inorganic noncombustible material incorporated onto the outside of the core (9) of the thermal insulating material to have it covered, so as to solve the problem of the tendency of causing a fire, during the placement of the thermal insulating panels at a construction site or other places, or during the transportation or installation of the same, due to the combustible material thereof being exposed.
US09175469B2
A self-reinforced masonry block comprises a main body having opposed substantially parallel stacking surfaces and at least one tubular cell defined therethrough from one stacking surface to the other. At least one confining reinforcement is embedded in the main body to surrounding a corresponding cell. Each confining reinforcement extends substantially entirely along the longitudinal length of its corresponding cell and terminates inwardly of the stacking surfaces. The self-reinforced masonry blocks may be used in construction of a grout-filled, vertically reinforced masonry block wall, with the self-reinforced masonry blocks being used for those portions of the wall where the grouted cells are prone to crushing due to high levels of compressive stress, and conventional unreinforced masonry blocks being used for other portions of the wall. A method for making the self-reinforced masonry blocks is also described.
US09175467B2
A tuned mass damper may be formed using one or more rotary magnetic dampers (108) coupled to a pendulous mass (102). The tuned mass damper thus formed may be used to suppress the motion of a man-made structure. The mass (308) of the tuned mass damper may be adjusted by adjusting the magnitude of the pendulous mass. The natural frequency of the tuned mass damper may be tuned by adjusting the distance from the mass center of the pendulous mass to the pivot point of the pendulum. The motion being suppressed may be generated by environmental factors such as waves, earthquakes, or wind, for example.
US09175461B2
A garbage disposal with an offset is provided. The garbage disposal includes a grinder mounted within a housing. The grinder rotates within the housing to process waste within the garbage disposal. Waste entering the housing is directed away from an axis of rotation of the grinder due to the offset. By directing waste away from the axis of rotation of the grinder, the waste can be more fully processed by the grinder.
US09175459B2
A water supply device with double supply modes contains: a body, a shifting mechanism, and a magnetic attraction device. The body includes an inflow channel, a water distributing cavity, a first outflow channel and a second outflow channel. The shifting mechanism includes a press button, a distribution core having a connecting portion and a closing portion, the closing portion moves between a first closing portion and a second closing portion reciprocatingly after the press button is pressed. The magnetic attraction device includes a first attracting element and a second attracting element which magnetically attract each other. The first attracting element is disposed on the shifting mechanism, and the second attracting element is mounted in the body opposite to the first attracting element; and the first attracting element moves to the first closing position or the second closing position with the distribution core.
US09175456B2
A boom control valve and a pulsation absorption control valve are provided in the halfway point of a center bypass line. The pulsation absorption control valve is arranged in a position downstream of the boom control valve. The pulsation absorption control valve is switched to a blockade position and a communication position by a pilot pressure from a remote control valve. The pulsation absorption control valve is constituted such that one main line out of a pair of main lines is communicated with or blocked off from an accumulator via one communication line and the other main line is communicated with or blocked off from the side of a tank via the other communication line. The accumulator is operated as a dynamic damper at the traveling of a vehicle. This arrangement enables the construction of the communication line to be simplified, thus improving operability at assembling.
US09175455B2
A bulldozer includes a blade, an engine, a first exhaust treatment device, a second exhaust treatment device, a relay connection pipe, and an engine cover. The first exhaust treatment device is disposed in front of the engine and lower than the upper surface thereof. The second exhaust treatment device is disposed above the first exhaust treatment device. The relay connection pipe is disposed above the first exhaust treatment device and below the second exhaust treatment device. The longitudinal directions of the first and second exhaust treatment devices extend along the vehicle lateral direction. As seen from the top of the vehicle, the second exhaust treatment device overlaps at least a part of the first exhaust treatment device. As seen from the side of the vehicle, the front edge of the first exhaust treatment device is positioned forward of the front edge of the second exhaust treatment device.
US09175453B2
Retaining wall systems and methods of making retaining wall systems are disclosed. In one embodiment, the retaining wall system includes a first horizontally-extending course of sand/soil bags and a second horizontally-extending course of sand/soil bags positioned vertically adjacent to the first course of sand/soil bags, with an interconnecting member that attaches the first course of sand/soil bags to the second course of sand/soil bags. The interconnecting member has an upper side and a lower side, wherein at least one of the upper side and the lower side has a first projection that includes a notch therein to engage geogrid.
US09175449B2
A transmission system is provided for transmitting power from an engine to a milling rotor in a cold planer. The transmission system includes a first circuit, a second circuit, and a shaft. The first circuit is disposed in a first plane and configured to be operatively driven by the engine. The second circuit is disposed in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane and configured to operatively drive the milling rotor. The shaft couples the first circuit to the second circuit wherein the engine and the milling rotor are axially offset.
US09175439B2
A chemical reactor and a method for arranging a ceramic barrier in a gasifying reactor, which reactor is arranged to convert high energy organic waste of black liquor type with a large amount of organic or inorganic alkali metal compounds, by high temperature oxidation with air or oxygen, whereby the organic waste is converted to a hot reducing gas containing a considerable amount of water vapour and the inorganic compounds form an alkali-containing salt melt at a temperature of 750-1150° C., and which reactor is arranged to comprise an outer shell (14) with associated inlet and outlet devices for reactants and products, the method comprising the arranging of a lining (16, 18) comprising one or more layers of ceramic barriers (16, 18) on the inside of the shell (14), the innermost ceramic barrier (16) of the reactor being composed of a lining material that primarily contains compounds of aluminium oxide (Al2O3), and at least one of alkali metal oxides (Me2(I)O) and alkaline earth metal oxides (Me(I)0), forming compounds of the type Me2(I)O Al2O3 and Me(II)0-Al2O3.
US09175430B2
A washing machine (1) is disclosed and includes a drum (2), a tub (3) wherein the drum (2) moves, a shaft (4), a cylindrical stationary hub (5) disposed on the rear wall of the tub (3) where the shaft (4) is supported, a bearing housing (7) in the middle of the hub (5) where at least one bearing (6) bearing the shaft (4) is placed, a cylindrical hub housing (8) connected to the rear wall of the drum (2), surrounding the hub (5) concentrically such that a gap remains between the hub (5) and rotating together with the drum (2) by transferring the movement of the shaft (4) to the drum (2), at least one balancing chamber (9) disposed in the drum (2) into which water is transferred by the unbalanced load status and a water distributing device (12) mounted between the hub (5) and the hub housing (8), having more than one ring-shaped gasket (10) arranged one after the other in parallel to each other and at least one slot (11) disposed between the gaskets (10).
US09175427B2
An endoluminal prosthesis and systems and methods for making the prosthesis are provided. In one example, a patterned graft material for a prosthesis includes a network of electrospun fibers. The network of electrospun fibers may include a plurality of continuous electrospun fibers. The fibers may be collected on a collector plate using an electrospinning process to form the network of fibers. The patterned graft material also may include a plurality of openings in the network of electrospun fibers. The plurality of openings may be arranged in a pattern. The network of electrospun fibers may include a plurality of edges, each surrounding a corresponding one of the plurality of openings. Each of the plurality of edges may include at least one electrospun fiber of the network of electrospun fibers. A majority of the electrospun fibers of the plurality of edges may be continuous at the edges.
US09175411B2
The present invention relates to a process for chemical extraction of gold and silver from low grade and refractory pyritic concentrates containing minimum 1 ppm Au, by their leaching in enameled cast iron reactors, steel plated lead or plastic coated steel, at room temperature, in ammoniac solutions (pH 8-10) of sodium thiosulfate (50-60 g/l Na2S2O3. 5 H2O) with a divalent copper salt as catalyst (3-4 g/l Cu). The suspension resulting after 2-4 hours of reaction is filtered. The thiosulfate solution containing minimum 5 mg/l undergoes an electrolysis process with insoluble anodes. Copper, gold and silver is deposited in the cell as a sludge, and the electrolyte having a maximum content of Au of 1 mg/l, is recycled to the leaching operation of raw material, after correction of copper content and alkalinity to the baseline values. The copper, gold and silver deposit, separated as a sludge, is purified by leaching copper in a solution of 30-40% sulphuric acid at a solid:liquid ratio of 1:5-1:10, at a temperature of 85-90° C. for 2-4 hours under air bubbling. The suspension is filtered. The copper leached as CuSO4.5H2O returns to the extraction process of gold and silver.
US09175409B2
Disclosed is a system and method for reducing carbon dioxide into a carbon based product. The system includes an electrochemical cell having a cathode region which includes a cathode and a non-aqueous catholyte; an anode region having an anode and an aqueous or gaseous anolyte; and an ion permeable zone disposed between the anode region and the cathode region. The ion permeable zone is at least one of (i) the interface between the anolyte and the catholyte, (ii) an ion selective membrane; (iii) at least one liquid layer formed of an emulsion or (iv) a hydrophobic or glass fiber separator. The system and method includes a source of energy, whereby applying the source of energy across the anode and cathode reduces the carbon dioxide and produces an oxidation product.
US09175406B2
There is provided a metallic glass component with its surface layer having both durability of a film and chromatic color properties, and a method for forming the surface layer. Surface active treatment is performed wherein the surface of the metallic glass component is reacted with a mixed aqueous solution of nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid to remove an oxide film and to provide an anchor bond shape on the surface of a metallic glass component, and electroplating or electroless plating is then performed, to form a plating film on the surface of the metallic glass component. It is thereby possible to form a surface layer of a metallic glass which has both durability and a chromatic color.
US09175398B2
Formation of an authentication element by deposition of a metal layer with embedded particles on a metal substrate, wherein the embedded particles are configured to convert energy from one wavelength to another. The embedded particles may be upconverters, downconverters, or phosphorescent phosphors, which can be detected and measured with analytical equipment when deposited in the metal layer. A metal substrate may include coinage.
US09175390B2
Atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes for forming Te-containing thin films, such as Sb—Te, Ge—Te, Ge—Sb—Te, Bi—Te, and Zn—Te thin films are provided. ALD processes are also provided for forming Se-containing thin films, such as Sb—Se, Ge—Se, Ge—Sb—Se, Bi—Se, and Zn—Se thin films are also provided. Te and Se precursors of the formula (Te,Se)(SiR1R2R3)2 are preferably used, wherein R1, R2, and R3 are alkyl groups. Methods are also provided for synthesizing these Te and Se precursors. Methods are also provided for using the Te and Se thin films in phase change memory devices.
US09175379B2
In an embodiment of the present invention, the following operations are performed while a substrate holder is being rotated at a fixed rotation speed with plasma being generated. Specifically, a first state where a substrate holding surface of the substrate holder is exposed to a target holder is formed to start a first deposition of divisional depositions, and a second state where the surface is shut off from the target holder is formed in T/X seconds after the start of the first divisional deposition. Moreover, the first state is formed to start an n-th deposition of the divisional depositions when a reference point set on the substrate holder arrived at a position rotated by (n−1)×360/X degrees from a position of the reference point located at the start of the targeted deposition, and the second state is formed in T/X seconds after the start of the n-th divisional deposition.
US09175372B2
It is an object to provide an aluminum alloy forged material for an automobile excellent in tensile strength while maintaining excellent corrosion resistance, and a method for manufacturing the same. Provided are the aluminum alloy forged material for an automobile and a method for manufacturing the same, the aluminum alloy forged material being composed of an aluminum alloy including Si: 0.7-1.5 mass %, Fe: 0.1-0.5 mass %, Mg: 0.6-1.2 mass %, Ti: 0.01-0.1 mass % and Mn: 0.3-1.0 mass %, further including at least one element selected from Cr: 0.1-0.4 mass % and Zr: 0.01-0.2 mass %, restricting Cu: 0.1 mass % or less and Zn: 0.05 mass % or less, and a hydrogen amount: 0.25 ml/100 g-Al or less, the remainder being Al and unavoidable impurities, in which the depth of recrystallization from the surface is 5 mm or less.
US09175356B2
A method and apparatus for managing a zone. Information is obtained about an environment in the zone with a sensor system. A determination is made by an analyzer system as to whether a contagious condition is present in the zone using the information from the sensor system. An action is performed by a management system in response to the contagious condition being present.
US09175349B2
The present invention provides biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of endometriosis. Generally, the methods of this invention find use in diagnosing or for providing a prognosis for endometriosis by detecting the expression levels of biomarkers, which are differentially expressed (up- or down-regulated) in endometrial cells from a patient with endometriosis. Similarly, these markers can be used to diagnose reduced fertility in a patient with endometriosis or to provide a prognosis for a fertility trial in a patient suffering from endometriosis. The present invention also provides methods of identifying a compound for treating or preventing endometriosis. Finally, the present invention provides kits for the diagnosis or prognosis of endometriosis.
US09175337B2
Disclosed are methods for amplifying a nucleic acid target region using an amplification oligomer comprising a target-binding segment and a heterologous displacer tag situated 5′ to the target-binding segment. Initiation of an amplification reaction from the tagged amplification oligomer produces an amplicon comprising the displacer tag, such that once the complement of the displacer tag has been incorporated into a second amplicon, a displacer oligonucleotide having a sequence substantially corresponding to the displacer tag sequence is used to participate in subsequent rounds of amplification for displacement of an extension product primed from a site within the second amplicon 5′ to the displacer priming site. Also disclosed are related kits and reaction mixtures comprising the displacer-tagged amplification oligomer and corresponding displacer oligonucleotide.
US09175331B2
The invention relates to inhibition of wild-type and certain mutant forms of human histone methyltransferase EZH2, the catalytic subunit of the PRC2 complex which catalyzes the mono- through tri-methylation of lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3-K27). In one embodiment the inhibition is selective for the mutant form of the EZH2, such that trimethylation of H3-K27, which is associated with certain cancers, is inhibited. The methods can be used to treat cancers including follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Also provided are methods for identifying small molecule selective inhibitors of the mutant forms of EZH2 and also methods for determining responsiveness to an EZH2 inhibitor in a subject.
US09175330B2
A method of performing high-throughput screening of various enzymatic activities with high sensitivity using artificial genetic circuits is provided. Particularly, the invention is screening and quantifying the activity of isoprene biosynthesis enzymes using an artificial genetic circuit capable of sensing isoprene. The artificial genetic circuit comprises an isoprene-sensing transcriptional regulator which recognizes isoprene, at least one reporter gene, a isoprene-sensing transcriptional regulator binding region and promoters for genes encoding isoprene-sensing transcriptional regulators and reporter proteins.The artificial genetic circuit detects isoprene liberated from many enzymatic reactions and measures the activity of reporter genes. This system is widely applicable for high throughput and quantitative screening of isoprene biosynthesis enzymes and MEP/MVA pathway enzymes.Therefore, the invention can be advantageously used in the protein engineering technology for enzyme modification. Particularly, it can provide a quantitative investigation of enzymatic activity, and thus can be applied to molecular evolution technology.
US09175327B2
According to the present invention, a composition possessing cell-free protein synthesis activity with reduced contaminating lipopolysaccharide, and a method for producing a protein using the same are provided. When ribosome display is performed using the composition and method for protein production of the present invention, the background that is caused by non-specific binding is reduced, so that a nucleic acid that encodes the desired polypeptide can be selected with high accuracy and high efficiency.
US09175325B2
The invention relates to the field of polynucleotide amplification. More particularly, the invention provides methods, compositions and kits for amplification of (i.e., making multiple copies of) a multiplicity of different polynucleotide template sequences using a randomly primed RNA/DNA composite primer.
US09175324B2
The invention relates to expression of a recombinant C1 β-glucosidase. The invention also provides methods for producing a fermentable sugar from cellobiose by contacting cellobiose with a recombinant host cell comprising a polynucleotide sequence encoding C1 β-glucosidase, operably linked to heterologous promoter, under conditions in which β-glucosidase is expressed and secreted by the cell and the cellobiose is enzymatically converted by said β-glucosidase to glucose. Methods of the invention may be used for conversion of a biomass substrate to a fermentable sugar, and ultimately to ethanol or other biofuel.
US09175323B2
This invention is directed to a process for treating biomass. The biomass is treated with a biomass swelling agent within the vessel to swell or rupture at least a portion of the biomass. A portion of the swelling agent is removed from a first end of the vessel following the treatment. Then steam is introduced into a second end of the vessel different from the first end to further remove swelling agent from the vessel in such a manner that the swelling agent exits the vessel at a relatively low water content.
US09175320B2
The present invention relates to processes and intermediates useful in the preparation of (R)-2-(7-(4-cyclopentyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid of Formula (Ia) and salts thereof, an S1P1 receptor modulator that is useful in the treatment of S1P1 receptor-associated disorders, for example, diseases and disorders mediated by lymphocytes, transplant rejection, autoimmune diseases and disorders, inflammatory diseases and disorders (e.g., acute and chronic inflammatory conditions), cancer, and conditions characterized by an underlying defect in vascular integrity or that are associated with angiogenesis such as may be pathologic (e.g., as may occur in inflammation, tumor development and atherosclerosis).
US09175310B2
The present invention shows that intranasal administration of E1/E3-defective adenovirus particles may confer rapid and broad protection against viral and bacterial pathogens in a variety of disease settings. Protective responses lasted for many weeks in a single-dose regimen in animal models. When a pathogen-derived antigen gene was inserted into the E1/E3-defective adenovirus genome, the antigen-induced protective immunity against the specific pathogen was elicited before the adenovirus-mediated protective response declined away, thus conferring rapid, prolonged, and seamless protection against pathogens. In addition to E1/E3-defective adenovirus, other bioengineered non-replicating vectors encoding pathogen-derived antigens may also be developed into a new generation of rapid and prolonged immunologic-therapeutic (RAPIT).
US09175293B2
The invention relates to the field of recombinant DNA technology for the production of chondroitin, including the production of chondroitin sulfate via a combination of recombinant bacterial fermentation and post-fermentation sulfation.
US09175288B2
Provided are a method of enhancing radiation sensitivity by using miR-499b-5p and a method of treating a radiation resistant cancer including administering miR-499b-5p.
US09175286B2
An antisense molecule capable of binding to a selected target site to induce exon skipping in the dystrophin gene, as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 to 202.
US09175284B2
This invention relates to industrial production of proteins. More specifically, the invention relates to the res-DHFR surrogate marker, which corresponds to a fusion between DHFR and a protein conferring resistance to a toxic compound or conferring a metabolic advantage. The invention further relates to the use of res-DHFR for screening cells for high expression of a protein of interest. The invention is illustrated by the Puro-DHFR surrogate marker, which corresponds to a fusion between the puromycin N-acetyltransferase and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR).
US09175283B2
This disclosure provides methods and compositions for the promotion of enzymatic activity of Target Enzymes, including but not limited to oligosaccharide/polysaccharide enzymes, protein enzymes, polynucleotide enzymes. The methods involve use of a non-naturally occurring polysaccharide (including but not limited HES) for promoting the enzymatic activity of an enzyme in liquid milieu, wherein the concentration of the polysaccharide in the composition comprising the Target Enzyme is from about 0.01% to about 55% w/v.
US09175268B2
Methods and composition of induction of pluripotent stem cells are disclosed. For example, in certain aspects methods for generating induced pluripotent stem cells using reporter genes are described. Furthermore, the invention provides novel reprogramming vectors employing reporter genes.
US09175265B2
Mouse or human hematopoietic cells are transduced in vitro with one or more vectors encoding c-Myc and Klf4 genes, to overexpress both c-Myc and Klf4. The transduced cells produce self-renewing populations of macrophages, monocytes, monocyte-derived macrophages, B lymphocytes or erythroid cells. The self-renewing cell populations may include a pharmaceutical composition.
US09175264B2
The invention generally relates to postnatal dental stem cells and methods for their use. More specifically, the invention relates in one aspect to postnatal dental pulp stem cells, use of the cells to generate dentin, and differentiation of the cells. In another aspect, the invention relates to human postnatal deciduous dental pulp multipotent stem cells, use of the cells to generate dentin, and differentiation of the cells.
US09175259B2
One or more embodiments are described directed to a method and system for loading and distributing cells in a bioreactor of a cell expansion system. Accordingly, embodiments include methods and systems that may provide for adding a plurality of cells to a fluid within a bioreactor of the cell expansion system. A first percentage of the plurality of cells is allowed to settle in the bioreactor and a second percentage of the plurality of cells is allowed to settle outside of the bioreactor. The first percentage of cells is then expanded in the bioreactor. The second percentage of cells is wasted.
US09175256B2
The invention provides transgenic photosynthetic microorganisms that include non-native genes encoding polypeptides having lipolytic activity for production of free fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives, and methods of producing free fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives using the transgenic microorganisms disclosed herein. The invention also provides transgenic microorganisms that include non-native genes encoding polypeptides having lipolytic activity, and novel genes encoding polypeptides demonstrating lipolytic activity.
US09175253B2
The invention intends to provide a cell culture shaking device which is able to improve the efficiency of cell culture while preventing the cells from becoming damaged. The shaking devices used in cell culture apparatuses for culturing cells in flexible culture bags for storing culture suspension having cells inoculated therein includes: shaking mechanisms having operating panels for pressing the culture bags repeatedly, so that the culture suspension in the culture bags is stirred by being pressed by a plurality of projections projecting for the operating panels.
US09175251B2
An automatic dishwashing detergent composition in unit dose form wherein the composition comprises at least about 0.2 mg of active starch degrading enzyme per gram of composition and wherein the weight of the composition is less than about 25 grams.
US09175248B2
A composition for treating a hard surface. The composition has: (a) at least one adhesion promoter; (b) at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting of: anionic, non-ionic, cationic, amphoteric, zwitterionic, and combinations thereof; (c) mineral oil; (d) water; (e) optionally, at least one solvent; and wherein the composition is self-adhering upon application to a surface to be treated, and wherein the composition provides a wet film to said surface when water passes over said composition and surface.
US09175239B2
The present invention relates to a brake fluid composition comprising a glycol compound as a solvent, and triazole, thiadiazole mixture, and antioxidant as metallic corrosion inhibitors. Provided is a brake fluid composition having improved long-term metallic and high-temperature corrosion inhibition. The brake fluid composition according to the present invention significantly improves long-term durability by being a superior anti-corrosive as well as having a reduced weight variation on a test piece, and has a superior high-temperature corrosion inhibition while having negligible effects on the equilibrium reflux boiling point and the wet equilibrium reflux boiling point.
US09175236B2
This invention describes novel trunk piston engine lubricating oil compositions for use in trunk piston engines operating on low sulfur marine residual fuels, as well as methods for lubricating trunk piston engines, methods of using the trunk piston lubricating oil compositions, and methods of making thereof.
US09175235B2
A bio-oil production process involving torrefaction pretreatment, catalytic esterification, pyrolysis, and secondary catalytic processing significantly reduces yields of reactor char, catalyst coke, and catalyst tar relative to the best-case conditions using non-torrefied feedstock. The reduction in coke as a result of torrefaction was 28.5% relative to the respective control for slow pyrolysis bio-oil upgrading. In fast pyrolysis bio-oil processing, the greatest reduction in coke was 34.9%. Torrefaction at 275° C. reduced levels of acid products including acetic acid and formic acid in the bio-oil, which reduced catalyst coking and increased catalyst effectiveness and aromatic hydrocarbon yields in the upgraded oils. The process of bio-oil generation further comprises a catalytic esterification of acids and aldehydes to generate such as ethyl levulinate from lignified biomass feedstock.
US09175231B2
A method of refining a natural oil includes: (a) providing a feedstock that includes a natural oil; (b) reacting the feedstock in the presence of a metathesis catalyst to form a metathesized product that includes olefins and esters; (c) passivating residual metathesis catalyst with an agent selected from the group consisting of phosphorous acid, phosphinic acid, and a combination thereof; (d) separating the olefins in the metathesized product from the esters in the metathesized product; and (e) transesterifying the esters in the presence of an alcohol to form a transesterified product and/or hydrogenating the olefins to form a fully or partially saturated hydrogenated product. Methods for suppressing isomerization of olefin metathesis products produced in a metathesis reaction, and methods of producing fuel compositions are described.
US09175224B2
A gasifying apparatus including a variable gasifier and used as both a power generator and a combustion boiler and a method of driving the same are disclosed. A combustion boiler and a generator engine, driven with synthesis gas, are associated with a single gasifier, and the gasifying apparatus produces synthesis gas proper to a technical field of the gasifier by selectively applying an upflow gasifier and a downflow gasifier according to the technical field of the gasifier.
US09175222B2
An optically isotropic liquid crystal composition is described. The liquid crystal composition contains an achiral component T and a chiral agent, contains at least one compound represented by formula (1) as a first component of the achiral component T, and exhibits an optically isotropic liquid crystal phase: wherein, for example, R1 is alkyl having 1 to 20 carbons; L1 to L8 are independently hydrogen or fluorine; Z1 to Z3 are each independently a single bond, —COO— or —CF2O—, but at least one thereof is —COO—; n1 and n2 are each independently 0 or 1; and X1 is halogen.
US09175218B2
There is provided a liquid crystal composition comprising: at least one kind of a compound represented by the following formula (i); and at least one kind of a compound represented by the following formula (ii). In the formulae, each of Ri1, Ri2 and Rii1 independently represents an alkyl group having a carbon number of 1-8; one of the alkyl groups, or two or more of the alkyl groups being noncontiguous, include —CH2— which can be independently substituted by —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO— or —OCO—; hydrogen atom in the alkyl group can be substituted by fluorine atom or chlorine atom; and each of Xi1, Xi2, Xi3 and Xi4 independently represents hydrogen atom or fluorine atom.
US09175206B2
Gellable treatment fluids may have their gel times modified by using a polymer mixture therein that contains two or more polymers having disparate average molecular weights. Methods for treating a subterranean formation using such gellable treatment fluids can comprise providing a gellable treatment fluid comprising a polymer mixture and a crosslinking agent, introducing the gellable treatment fluid into a subterranean formation, and allowing the gellable treatment fluid to form a gel in the subterranean formation. The polymer mixture comprises a base polymer and an addend polymer, where the base polymer and the addend polymer each comprise an acrylamide monomer unit or a derivative thereof and have different average molecular weights, such that a molecular weight distribution of the polymer mixture contains at least two local maxima.
US09175194B2
An acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive tape including an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein a 180° peel adhesive force of the acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive tape to a glass plate is 10 N/20 mm or more and a 180° peel adhesive force of the acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive tape to an acrylic plate is 10 N/20 mm or more. The acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer contains an acrylic polymer (A), has a gel fraction of 65% or more, and has a 300% tensile residual stress of from 7 to 16 N/cm2.
US09175188B2
A moisture-curable polysiloxane composition consists essentially of (a) at least one polyorganosiloxane, fluorinated polyorganosiloxane, or combination thereof comprising reactive silane functionality comprising at least one hydrosilyl moiety; and (b) at least one base selected from amidines, guanidines, phosphazenes, proazaphosphatranes, and combinations thereof; wherein the curable composition is non-foaming and has an average condensation-curable, reactive silane functionality greater than two.
US09175184B2
A composition of precursors for the release of vapors of alkali or alkali-earth metals is described. The composition has at least a compound of alkali or alkali-earth metal, at least a reducing agent and optionally an absorbing material, all in the form of powders, dispersed in a viscous matrix of hybrid organic-inorganic type. Dispensers for the release of these metals obtained through the composition and micro-electronic devices are also described.
US09175182B2
Silver carbonate decomposes to form silver metal by a temperature of 280 degrees Celsius. Its use in inkjet ink allows the low-cost production of conductive metallic inks. The silver metal layer could be further processed to enhance silver decorative properties and in particular light reflective properties.
US09175175B2
A method is provided for making thermochromic pigments in microcapsules having unusually small particle sizes.
US09175173B2
A system and method for anti-reflective layers is provided. In an embodiment the anti-reflective layer comprises a polymer resin which has repeating units within it. At least one of the repeating units comprises a locked unit which has a cyclic structure and a lock within the unit. After the anti-reflective layer has been applied and baked, irregularities such as voids and step heights differences that have occurred may be handled by unlocking the lock within the locked unit. This unlocking breaks the cyclic structure, allowing the polymer to take up more volume and causing the anti-reflective layer to self-expand, filling the voids and reducing the step-height. The unlocking may be performed by exposure or thermal treatments.
US09175163B2
The present invention relates to a novel method for compatibilizing, i.e. improving miscibility of, otherwise immiscible organic materials highly useful in the fibers industry, as well as the compatibilized product of the method. These compatibilized products are stable in the liquid phase at temperatures ranging from about 40° C. to about 200° C. The method involves use of a glycol derived from polymerization of alkylene oxide and tetrahydrofuran, the alkylene oxide having from 2 to 4 carbon atoms, i.e. poly(tetramethylene-co-alkyleneether) glycol, in the mixture.
US09175160B2
A composition contains (a) 1 to 40 weight percent of poly(phenylene ether) particles having a mean particle size of 1 to 40 micrometers; and (b) 60 to 99 weight percent of a polyoxymethylene; wherein polystyrene is absent from the poly(phenylene ether) particles; wherein the composition comprises less than 0.1 volume percent, based on the total volume of the composition, of particulate metals, metalloids, oxides thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the metals and metalloids are selected from iron, copper, aluminum, magnesium, lead, zinc, tin, chromium, nickel, tungsten, silicon, gold, silver, platinum, and alloys thereof. The poly(phenylene ether) particles reduce the density and increase the char yield of the polyoxymethylene. When the composition is prepared at a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the poly(phenylene ether), increased flexural strength can also be obtained. The composition is useful as a molding composition for a variety of articles.
US09175158B2
There is disclosed a resin composition from which a molded article excellent in scratch resistance and mechanical properties, low in gloss and low in shrinkage anisotropy can be obtained. Specifically, disclosed is a resin composition comprising 40% by weight to 90% by weight of a propylene polymeric material (A) containing 50% by weight or more of structural units derived from propylene, 9% by weight to 30% by weight of wollastonite (B), and 1% by weight to 30% by weight of an elastomer (C) where the combined amount of (A), (B) and (C) is taken as 100% by weight, wherein the wollastonite (B) satisfies specific requirements.
US09175148B2
The invention relates to C11 to C13 dialkyl esters of furandicarboxylic acid.
US09175137B2
A method for curing a macromolecular cyanurate network. The method of curing includes suspending a plurality of functionalized silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles in a resin mixture, which includes cyanate ester monomers, cyanate ester oligomers, or both. After a static magnetic field is applied to the plurality of functionalized silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles in the resin mixture, an alternating electromagnetic field (having frequency ranging from about 1 kHz to about 10 MHz) is imposed for a cure time.
US09175136B2
Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) having a certain particle size distribution and its use in preparing poly(aryl ether ketone)s, especially PEEK. Poly(aryl ether ketone)s made using the described sodium carbonate. A method for providing a sodium carbonate having a certain particle size distribution, which is especially well suited for the preparation of poly(aryl ether ketone)s.
US09175133B2
A polyester has excellent thermostability with only a small reduction in intrinsic viscosity during melt molding. The polyester is obtained from a dicarboxylic acid, and/or an ester-forming derivative thereof, and an ethylene glycol, a catalyst selected from the group consisting of a titanium compound, aluminum compound and antimony compound, a phosphorous compound selected from the group consisting of phosphoric acid, trimethyl phosphate, ethyl diethylphosphonoacetate, 3,9-bis(2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenoxy) -2,4,8, 10-tetraoxa-3,9-diphosphaspiro[5,5]undecane and tetrakis(2,4-di-t-butyl-5-methylphenyl) [1,1-biphenyl]-4,4′-diylbisphosphonite, wherein the polyester contains 15 to 203 ppm of a sum of copolymerized 1,2-propanediol and/or uncopolymerized 1,2-propanediol wherein ethylene glycol is obtained from biomass and has content of 1,2-propanediol of 45 to 1000 ppm.
US09175126B2
The invention relates to water-soluble or water-dispersible, hydrophilic polyisocyanates and polyisocyanate mixtures, to a process for preparing them, and to their use as a starting component in the production of polyurethane polymers, more particularly as crosslinkers for water-soluble or water-dispersible film-forming binders, adhesives binders, or sealant binders or binder components with or without groups which are reactive towards isocyanate groups.
US09175123B2
Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide for the use of polycycloolefins in electronic devices and more specifically to the use of such polycycloolefins as gate insulator layers used in the fabrication of electronic devices, the electronic devices that encompass such polycycloolefin gate insulator and processes for preparing such polycycloolefin gate insulator layers and electronic devices encompassing such layers.
US09175121B2
The present invention provides aqueous compositions comprising β-hydroxy propyl gamma-polyoxyalkylene ether functional resins chosen from (poly)oxyalkylene ether β-hydroxy propyl (meth)acrylates, maleates and itaconates, water soluble copolymers thereof, and mixtures thereof. The water soluble copolymers are comb polymers and (meth)acrylate, maleate and itaconate monomer resins can be addition polymerized to form comb polymers suitable for many uses, such as superplasticizers, dispersants, detergents and floor care compositions. In addition, the present invention provides methods of making the resins by reacting in water or aqueous solvent one or more reactant a) a glycidyl polyether or glycidyl ether, optionally having an alkyl or aryl end group with one or more reactant b) a carboxylate anion containing vinyl compound or polymer, preferably a polymer such as poly(meth)acrylic acid. The methods enable simple formation of comb polymers.
US09175116B2
The present invention relates to a polymeric water repellent material including novel acrylamide polymer, which can be used in various field because it demonstrates controllable and excellent water repellency together with water adhesiveness. The polymeric water repellent material comprises an acrylamide polymer including at least one repeating unit.
US09175110B2
Process for reducing thermally induced discoloration of melt-processible fluoropolymer resin produced by polymerizing fluoromonomer in an aqueous medium to form aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion and isolating said fluoropolymer from said aqueous medium to obtain said fluoropolymer resin. The process comprises melt extruding said fluoropolymer resin to produce molten fluoropolymer resin; and exposing said molten fluoropolymer resin to an oxygen source during said melt extruding.
US09175100B2
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a solid catalyst component suitable for producing polyethylene and its copolymers, said process comprising the steps of: (a) contacting a dehydrated support having hydroxyl groups with a magnesium compound having the general formula MgR1R2; (b) contacting the product obtained in step (a) with modifying compounds (A), (B) and (C), wherein: (A) is at least one compound selected from the group consisting of carboxylic acid, carboxylic acid ester, ketone, acyl halide, aldehyde and alcohol; (B) is a compound having the general formula R11f(R12O)gSiXh, (C) is a compound having the general formula (R13O)4M, and (c) contacting the product obtained in step (b) with a titanium halide compound having the general formula TiX4, wherein Ti is a titanium atom and X is a halide atom. The invention also relates to a solid catalyst component obtainable by said process. The invention further relates to a process for producing polyethylene and its copolymers in the presence of the solid catalyst component and a co-catalyst.
US09175099B2
A highly active and environment-friendly catalyst for use in a living radical polymerization is provided. A catalyst for use in a living radical polymerization method is provided. The catalyst comprises a central element, which is selected from nitrogen and phosphorus, and at least one halogen atom, which is bound to the central element. A monomer having a radical reactive unsaturated bond is subjected to a radical polymerization reaction in the presence of the catalyst, thereby it is possible to obtain a polymer having narrow molecular weight distribution. The present invention has the merits such as low toxicity of the catalyst, a small amount of the catalyst being required, high solubility of the catalyst in the polymerization media, mild reaction conditions, no coloration, no odor (unnecessary post-treatment of molded products). The method of the present invention is more environment-friendly and economical than other living radical polymerization methods.
US09175097B2
A process for the simultaneous substitution and crosslinking of a polysaccharide via its hydroxyl functional groups, in an aqueous phase, which includes the following steps: a polysaccharide is placed in an aqueous medium, it is brought into the presence of at least one precursor of a substituent, it is brought into the presence of a crosslinking agent, the substituted and crosslinked polysaccharide is obtained and isolated, wherein process is carried out in the presence of a basic or acidic catalyst, the concentration of which is between 3.16×10−7 and 0.32 mol/L, and at a temperature of less than 60° C. In one embodiment, the polysaccharide is in the form of a gel or hydrogel which is used in particular as augmentation biomaterial.
US09175086B2
CD20 is a transmembrane protein of the tetra-spanin family expressed on the surface of B-cells from peripheral blood as well as lymphoid tissues. CD20 expression persists from the early pre-B cell stage until the plasma cell differentiation stage. In addition to expression in normal B-cells, CD20 is expressed in B-cell derived malignancies such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The present invention includes anti-CD20 antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof comprising a light chain variable region and a heavy chain variable region, wherein the CDR-L1, CDR-L2, and CDR-L3 of said light chain variable region comprise the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 23-25, respectively, and wherein the CDR-H1, CDR-H2, and CDR-H3 of said heavy chain variable region comprise the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 26-28, respectively.
US09175084B2
The present invention enables to realize a convenient determination of a therapeutic effect of an anticancer agent on a cancer. Specifically, the present invention provides a diagnostic marker for an effect of an anticancer agent on a cancer, comprising a substance having an affinity for a fragment of an extracellular domain of c-MET; a diagnostic reagent for an effect of an anticancer agent on a cancer, comprising a substance having an affinity for a fragment of an extracellular domain of c-MET and the fragment of the extracellular domain of c-MET; and a method of testing an effect of an anticancer agent on a cancer, comprising (a) measuring a concentration of a fragment of an extracellular domain of c-MET in a biological sample from a subject, and (b) comparing the measured concentration of the fragment of the extracellular domain of c-MET with an indicator which presents a relationship between a concentration of the fragment of the extracellular domain of c-MET and the effect of the anticancer agent on the cancer.
US09175083B2
Novel antigen-binding polypeptides (ABP) and uses thereof are provided.
US09175074B2
An object of the present invention is to prepare an antibody that targets CAPRIN-1 specifically expressed on the surface of cancer cells and is superior in antitumor activity to conventional antibodies and to provide use of the antibody as a therapeutic and/or preventive agent for cancer. The present invention provides use of an antibody targeting an identified cancer antigenic protein specifically expressed on the surface of cancer cells as a therapeutic and/or preventive agent for cancer, specifically, a pharmaceutical composition for treatment and/or prevention of cancer, comprising as an active ingredient an antibody or a fragment thereof which has immunological reactivity with a CAPRIN-1 protein, the antibody or the fragment thereof comprising a heavy chain variable region comprising amino acid sequences represented by SEQ ID NOs: 5, 6, and 7 and a light chain variable region comprising amino acid sequences represented by SEQ ID NOs: 9, 10, and 11.
US09175073B2
The inventors discovered that the adhesion molecule CAR, known to be localized in intracellular adhesion sites, functioned as an adhesion molecule for activated lymphocytes. Further, the inventors identified CARL, a novel CAR ligand expressed in lymphocytes, and clarified that the ligand was expressed selectively in Th1 cells. In addition, they found that anti-CAR antibodies could inhibit the adhesion of activated lymphocytes to CAR molecules. Thus, the present invention provides methods for detecting Th1 cells using CAR or anti-CARL antibodies, and methods of screening for inhibitors suppressing the adhesion of Th1 cells using the binding between CAR and CARL as an index. Furthermore, the present invention relates to methods of screening for inhibitors of the binding between CAR and CARL, antibodies that inhibit the binding between CAR and CARL, and therapeutic compositions comprising these antibodies. These are expected to be useful in diagnosing diseases, such as inflammation, in which infiltration of Th1 cells is involved, and in providing pharmaceutical agents for alleviating such diseases.
US09175069B2
Provided herein are methods of producing neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, by cyclical immunization, that cross-react with strains of Influenza virus of the same subtype or different subtypes. Also provided herein are compositions comprising such antibodies and methods of using such antibodies to diagnose, prevent or treat Influenza virus disease.
US09175064B2
HLA-E chimeric molecules for providing nonhuman mammalian cells resistant to cytotoxic human NK cells, nucleotide sequences encoding these chimeric molecules, and nonhuman mammalian cells and nonhuman mammals transformed with such nucleotide sequences are disclosed herein. The HLA-E chimeric molecules of the invention contain a peptide that reforms all or part of the signal peptide region, α1 domain and/or α2 domain of HLA-E, and a nucleotide sequence of the invention encodes a HLA-E chimeric molecule. A transformant incorporating a nucleotide sequence of the invention expresses HLA-E efficiently.
US09175049B2
Compositions of immunogenic proteins of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) are effective for stimulating a protective immune response in animals against MAP. Combinations of MAP1087 with two or more of MAP1204, MAP1272c and MAP2077c are effective for stimulating a protective immune response in animals against MAP and can be administered as vaccines against paratuberculosis (Johne's disease). Induction of the immune response significantly reduces or eliminates colonization of the animal by MAP, and consequently reduces or eliminates the symptoms of clinical disease in animals infected with MAP and reduces or eliminates fecal shedding of MAP. Vaccination with the compositions provides protection against clinical disease and reduces transmission of MAP infection within a herd.
US09175047B2
Peptidomimetic macrocycles and methods of using such macrocycles for the treatment of viral disease are described.
US09175046B2
Compositions and methods for the therapy and diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, are disclosed. Illustrative compositions comprise one or more bacterial polypeptides, immunogenic portions thereof, polynucleotides that encode such polypeptides, antigen presenting cell that expresses such polypeptides, and T cells that are specific for cells expressing such polypeptides. The disclosed compositions are useful, for example, in the diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment of IBD.
US09175041B2
The present invention relates to the crystal structures of dolastatin 16, dolamethylleuine and dolaphenvaline. The present invention also relates to processes for preparing dolamethylleuine and dolaphenvaline. The present invention further relates to computer readable medium with crystal structural data and/or information stored thereon.
US09175035B2
An object of the present invention is to provide, as a method for immobilizing a protein molecule, protein immobilization method and means in which orientation of a molecule to be immobilized can be controlled, the molecule can be stably immobilized without a complicated process and a chemical group used for immobilization does not affect the activity and the function of the protein. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for immobilizing a molecule including the steps of forming a labeled molecule by attaching a label peptide sequence comprising a hydroxyl group-containing amino acid to a molecule; and bringing a molecule having a phenylboronic acid group into contact with the labeled molecule, to capture the labeled molecule by the molecule having a phenylboronic acid group.
US09175027B2
The invention comprises compounds, methods of making, and methods of using. The compounds may have a backbone and three appended functional groups: one lipid, one hydrophilic polymer, and one carbohydrate. Specific functional groups may be selected for specific applications in formulating pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, nutriceuticals, and the like. A variety of linkers between the backbone and functional groups may also be selected to optimize performance.
US09175025B2
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a porous organic-inorganic hybrid, which comprises gelling a reaction mixture containing a metal precursor, a water-soluble additive and water or water-containing organic solvent at a gelling temperature of 30° C.˜100° C. to obtain an organogel-containing solution having a viscosity of 2 to 50,000 (cps), subsequently ageing the solution at said gelling temperature under stirring; and subsequently heating the organogel-containing solution at a temperature between said gelling temperature and 250° C. to crystallize the solution.According to the method for preparation of the present invention, it is possible to commercially practice the present invention since the reaction can be carried out in water or a water-containing organic solvent at an ambient pressure or a slightly raised pressure under a reflux condition, as well as it is possible to mass-produce a porous organic-inorganic hybrid having a high crystallinity and a large surface even in a high mol ratio of 1:1˜1:30 of solvent to metal.
US09175020B2
Lithium diphenylphosphide solutions in a solvent, e.g., diethoxymethane (DEM), that are more stable than when tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used as a solvent. Methods of producing them are also disclosed.
US09175011B2
The invention relates to compounds of formula (I) wherein m, n, R1, T0 and T1 have the meaning as cited in the description and the claims. The compounds are useful as inhibitors of mTOR for the treatment or prophylaxis of mTOR related diseases and disorders. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions including said compounds as well as methods of treating mTOR related diseases.
US09175010B2
Described herein are compounds of Formula I and Formula II, methods of their synthesis, compositions comprising the compounds, and use of the compounds and compositions in treating numerous diseases and disorders, including cognitive deficits associated with CNS diseases and disorders.
US09175007B2
The present invention provides compounds, compositions thereof, and methods of using the same.
US09175003B2
The present invention relates to substituted azoanthracene derivatives and intermediates for the preparation thereof. The substituted azoanthracene derivatives and associated intermediates may be useful for the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment or prevention of diseases, disorders, and conditions wherein modulation of the human GLP-1 receptor is beneficial.
US09175002B2
The invention described herein pertains to the synthesis and use of certain N-substituted indenoisoquinoline compounds which inhibit the activity Tyrosyl-DNA Phosphodiesterase I (Tdp1) or Topoisomerase I (Top1) or both, or otherwise demonstrate anticancer activity. Also disclosed are novel N-substituted indenoisoquinoline compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the novel N-substituted indenoisoquinoline compounds.
US09174996B2
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula VIII with absolute configuration R or S: as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, hydrates, or solvates thereof, wherein the variables are described herein. The present invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions which comprise the compounds of Formula VIII, and to methods for inhibiting protein kinase and methods of treating diseases, such as cancers, inflammation.
US09174995B2
Compounds of the formula I in which X, R1 and Y have the meanings indicated in claim 1, are inhibitors of Tankyrase, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, central nervous system injury and different forms of inflammation.
US09174989B2
The disclosure encompasses a novel process for making piperidinone carboxamide indane and azainane derivatives, having less steps and improved yields as compared to previous synthetic methods for making these compounds, which are CGRP receptor antagonists, useful for the treatment of migraine. Conditions for an amide bond formation between an acid and amine include for example reacting the compounds of Formulae B (after salt break) and C with an amide coupling reagent and optionally an additive and an acid and/or a base in a non-reactive solvent.
US09174982B2
Disclosed are compounds which inhibit the activity of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases during which is expressed anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein.
US09174981B2
Compounds of Formula I: and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in which R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 have the meanings given in the specification, are inhibitors of cFMS and are useful in the treatment of fibrosis, bone-related diseases, cancer, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, pain and burns in a mammal.
US09174977B2
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) including stereoisomers or a racemate or a mixture or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: wherein X is NH, or O; Q is 5-6 membered heteroaryl group, which may be substituted by one or more substituents independently selected from a group consisting of: C1-C4 alkyl, halogen, halo C1-C4 alkyl, C1-C4 alkoxy, CN; A is phenyl or a 5-6 heteroaryl group, which may be substituted by one or more substituents independently selected from a group consisting of: C1-C4 alkyl, halogen, halo C1-C4 alkyl, C1-C4 alkoxy, CN; B may assume different meanings from A and is phenyl or a 5-6 membered heteroaryl group, which may be substituted by one or more substituents independently selected from a group consisting of: C1-C4 alkyl, halogen, halo C1-C4 alkyl, C1-C4 alkoxy, CN; and processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as dual antagonists of the Orexin 1 and Orexin 2 receptors.
US09174969B2
The subject invention concerns methods and compounds for inhibiting Shp2. In one embodiment, a compound of the invention has a chemical structure as shown in formula I or II: wherein X, Y, and Z are independently N or S; R1 is cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl, any of which can be optionally substituted with one or more of halogen; alkyl; heteroalkyl; —COOH; —C(R3)3, wherein R3 can independently be any of —H or halogen; or —OR4, wherein R4 can be any of H, alkyl, or heteroalkyl; R2 is alkyl, alkylcarbonyl, heteroalkylcarbonyl, aryl, arylcarbonyl, heterocycloalkylcarbonyl, cycloalkylcarbonyl, or —C(O)NR6R7, any of which can be optionally substituted with one or more of halogen; alkyl; heteroalkyl; carbonyl; —OR4, wherein R4 can be —H, alkyl, or heteroalkyl; —OH; —C(R3)3, wherein R3 can independently be any of —H or halogen; aryl, which can be substituted with one or more of halogen or —OR4; heterocycloalkyl; or —C(O)OR5, wherein R5 can be —H or alkyl; R6 and R7 are independently —H, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl; and R′ is H or alkyl; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof.
US09174968B2
The present invention relates to novel compounds that inhibit Lp-PLA2 activity, processes for their preparation, to compositions containing them and to their use in the treatment of diseases associated with the activity of Lp-PLA2, for example atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and/or diabetic macular edema.
US09174956B2
Discloses is a process for preparation of a compound of formula 7, or a derivative thereof, wherein PG1 is an alcohol protecting group. Also, disclosed are intermediates and processes for their preparation. The compound of formula 7 can be useful in the preparation of halinchondrin analogs such as Eribulin.
US09174955B2
The invention relates to a process for the manufacture of an epoxyethyl carboxylate or glycidyl carboxylate, including reacting a vinyl carboxylate or an allyl carboxylate using an oxidant and a water-soluble manganese complex in an aqueous reaction medium, and the water-soluble manganese complex comprises an oxidation catalyst, characterized in that the water-soluble manganese complex is a mononuclear species of the general formula (I) [LMnX3]Y (I), or a binuclear species of the general formula (II): [LMn(μ-X)3MnL]Yn (II), wherein Mn is a manganese; L is a ligand and each L is independently a polydentate ligand, each X is independently a coordinating species and each μ-X is independently a bridging coordinating species, Y is a non-coordinating counter ion, and wherein the epoxidation is carried out at a pH in the range of from 1.0 to 7.0.
US09174954B2
Described are methods of preparing reduced 3,7-diamino-10H-phenothiazine (DAPTZ) compounds of formula: wherein: R1 and R9 are independently selected from: —H; C1-4alkyl; C2-4alkenyl; and halogenated C1-4alkyl; each of R3NA and R3NB is independently selected from: —H; C1-4alkyl; C2-4alkenyl; and halogenated C1-4alkyl; each of R7NA and R7NB is independently selected from: —H; C1-4alkyl; C2-4alkenyl; and halogenated C1-4alkyl; each of HX1 and HX2 is independently a protic acid; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, and hydrates thereof. These methods are particularly useful for producing stable reduced forms, and with high purity. The stability and purity are especially relevant for pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of disease. The compounds are useful for treatment of e.g. tauopathies, such as Alzheimer's disease, and also as prodrugs for the corresponding oxidized thioninium drugs.
US09174945B2
The present invention is related to rosuvastatin zinc salt of the Formula (I), process for preparation thereof and medicinal products containing said salt. Rosuvastatin zinc salt according to the present invention is prepared by reacting rosuvastatin with a zinc alcoholate, zinc enolate or an inorganic or organic zinc salt and isolating the thus obtained rosuvastatin zinc salt (2:1).
US09174942B2
Presently provided are compounds according to the formula (I) or (II), and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, wherein R1, R4, and R5 are defined herein. Such compounds and compositions are useful for modulating an activity of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase; treating indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) mediated immunosuppression; treating a medical conditions that benefit from the inhibition of enzymatic activity of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase; enhancing the effectiveness of an anti-cancer treatment comprising administering an anti-cancer agent; treating tumor-specific immunosuppression associated with cancer; and treating immunosuppression associated with an infectious disease.
US09174941B2
Disclosed herein are novel antioxidant inflammation modulators, including those of the formula: wherein the variables are defined herein. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, kits and articles of manufacture comprising such compounds. Methods and intermediates useful for making the compounds, and methods of using the compounds and compositions thereof are also provided.
US09174932B2
By searching various kinds of compounds having CaSR agonistic activity, the present invention provides CaSR agonistic agents, pharmaceutical compositions, preventive or therapeutic agents for diarrhea and kokumi-imparting agents each of which comprise the compound. More specifically, the present invention provides CaSR agonistic agents, pharmaceutical compositions, preventive or therapeutic agents for diarrhea and kokumi-imparting agents each of which comprise a glutamic acid derivative having CaSR agonistic activity or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
US09174929B2
The present invention relates to a composition containing a particulate solid, a non-polar organic medium, and a compound obtained/obtainable by reacting an aromatic amine with hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent, wherein the hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent is selected from the group consisting of an oligomer or polymer from condensation polymerization of a hydroxy-substituted C10-30 carboxylic acid into a polyester, an optionally hydroxy-substituted C10-30 carboxylic acid, a C10-30-hydrocarbyl substituted acylating agent, and a polyolefin-substituted maleic anhydride. The invention further provides compositions for inks, thermoplastics, plasticizers, plastisols, crude grinding and flush.
US09174928B2
Processes for the epoxidation of ethylene are provided in which, following start-up, an epoxidation catalyst is contacted with a feed comprising ethylene, oxygen, carbon dioxide in an amount below 2.0 vol. %, and a chloride moderator to achieve a desired work rate at a first operating temperature T1. The composition of the feed is subsequently adjusted (e.g., by decreasing the ethylene concentration, decreasing the oxygen concentration, increasing the carbon dioxide concentration and/or adjusting the concentration of the chloride moderator) so as to increase the first operating temperature T1 to a second operating temperature T2 while maintaining the desired work rate. As the catalyst activity declines, the composition of the feed is further adjusted so as to maintain the desired work rate at the second operating temperature T2.
US09174926B2
The present invention relates to norbornene-ester-based derivatives, to a method for preparing same, and to the uses thereof. This compound may be used as a plasticizer which can replace a phthalate-based plasticizer.
US09174924B2
The present invention relates to the discovery of new class of linear and multiarmed hydrolysable linkers and cross linkers for use in the synthesis of biodegradable polymers such as, polyesters, polyurethanes, polyamides, polyureas and degradable epoxy amine resin. The linear and multiarmed hydrolysable linkers of the present invention include symmetrical and/or unsymmetrical ether carboxylic acids, amines, amide diols, amine polyols and isocyanates.
US09174912B2
A primary object of the present invention is to provide a polylactic acid decomposition method that efficiently decomposes polylactic acid so that the polylactic acid can readily undergo degradation by a biological treatment such as methane fermentation. Specifically, the present invention provides a polylactic acid decomposition method involving a step of impregnating a polylactic acid-containing organic material with a treatment solution containing an organic acid salt and/or inorganic acid salt of an amine compound.
US09174905B2
A process for the telomerization of butadiene comprises reacting 1,3-butadiene and an alkanol, in the presence of a catalyst promoter and an alkoxydimerization catalyst comprising a Group VIII transition metal and a triarylphosphine ligand, which includes one phenyl that is mono-ortho-alkoxy substituted and at least one other phenyl including at least one substituent that withdraws electrons from the phosphorus atom. The product includes an alkoxy-substituted octadiene, which may then be used to produce 1-octene. The catalyst shows improved stability, activity and selectivity toward the alkoxy-substituted octadiene.
US09174898B2
Digesting cellulosic biomass in the presence of a slurry catalyst may reduce degradation product formation, but catalyst distribution and retention can be problematic. Digestion methods can comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen in a digestion unit; providing a digestible filter aid in the digestion unit; distributing the slurry catalyst within the cellulosic biomass solids using fluid flow; retaining at least a portion of the slurry catalyst in a fixed location using the digestible filter aid; heating the cellulosic biomass solids in the presence of the slurry catalyst, a digestion solvent, and molecular hydrogen, thereby forming a liquor phase comprising soluble carbohydrates; and performing a catalytic reduction reaction on the soluble carbohydrates within the digestion unit, thereby at least partially forming a reaction product comprising a triol, a diol, a monohydric alcohol, or any combination thereof in the digestion unit.
US09174887B1
A method of preparing heavy ANFO including loading high density ammonium nitrate into a hopper; feeding the high density ammonium nitrate into a mixing chamber; during the feeding step, injecting fuel into a high density ammonium nitrate feeding pipe, thereby obtaining ANFO; loading bulk emulsion into a hopper; gassing the bulk emulsion; feeding the gassed bulk emulsion into a same mixing chamber as the ANFO; and mixing the gassed bulk emulsion and the ANFO, thereby obtaining heavy ANFO.
US09174886B2
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for coated particles, compositions including coated particles, methods for making coated particles, methods of reducing dust, and the like.
US09174880B2
There is disclosed a honeycomb structure onto which a large amount of catalyst can be carried while suppressing an increase in pressure drop. In a honeycomb structure comprising porous partition walls by which a plurality of cells that become through channels of a fluid are partitioned and in which a plurality of pores are formed. In each of the partition walls, pores having pore diameters larger than a thickness of the partition wall in a section thereof which is perpendicular to an extending direction of the cells are formed so as to occupy 4 to 11% of the total volume of the pores formed in the partition walls.
US09174879B2
A ceramic precursor batch composition comprising inorganic ceramic-forming ingredients, a hydrophobically modified cellulose ether binder having a molecular weight less than or equal to about 300,000 g/mole and an aqueous solvent is provided. The ceramic precursor batch composition has a ratio of binder to aqueous solvent of less than about 0.32. The ceramic precursor batch composition may be used to increase the rate of extrusion of the composition. A method for increasing a rate of extrusion of a ceramic precursor batch composition is also disclosed.
US09174878B2
A known method for producing a porous carbon product comprises producing a monolithic template from inorganic matrix material having pores connected to each other, infiltrating the pores of the template with carbon or a carbon precursor substance forming a green body framework containing carbon surrounded by matrix material and calcining the green body framework forming the porous carbon product. In order to provide a method proceeding herefrom which permits cost-effective production of a product from porous carbon, according to the invention the production of the template comprises a soot separation process in which a hydrolyzable or oxidable starting compound of the matrix material is supplied to a reaction zone, therein converted to matrix material particles by hydrolysis or pyrolysis, the matrix material particles are agglomerated or aggregated and formed to the template.
US09174873B2
The invention relates to an admixture for a cementitious composition comprising microfibrillar cellulose and/or a derivative thereof. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing said admixture and to the use of the microfibrillar cellulose and/or a derivative thereof in the concrete admixture. The invention further relates to a cementitious composition comprising said admixture and methods of manufacture and use thereof.
US09174870B2
The present invention relates to a plaster-based material which includes an agent capable of trapping formaldehyde, in particular a plasterboard intended for the interior fittings of residential buildings.The agent capable of trapping formaldehyde is chosen from ethylene urea and its derivatives, compounds comprising active methylene(s), sulphites, tannins and their mixtures.Another subject-matter of the invention is the use of the said material for reducing the amount of formaldehyde present in the atmosphere inside residential buildings.
US09174868B2
A sizing composition for insulating products based on mineral wool, in particular of rock or of glass, includes: a hydrogenated sugar or a mixture of hydrogenated sugars comprising at least 25% by weight of maltitol, calculated on the basis of the dry matter of hydrogenated sugar(s), and at least one polyfunctional crosslinking agent. Another subject matter of the present invention is the insulating products based on mineral fibers thus obtained.
US09174863B2
A wastewater system is provided. The system includes channels and conduits for wastewater guidance and discharge. High aspect ratio channels and one or more distribution conduits are provided in the system such that wastewater, such as septic wastewater, is discharged from the system and into the system surroundings. The high aspect ratio channels are spaced apart from each other to allow for the discharge of the wastewater effluent from the system between the channels. The channels have a high height to width aspect ratio.
US09174860B2
The present invention relates to methods for the separation of materials from heterogeneous fluids and provides a means of effecting stimulant-sensitive flocculation and consolidation of solid suspensions within a liquid medium. Specifically, the present invention provides a method of controlling the state of a suspension of solid particles in a liquid, including applying to the suspension a stimulus adapted to control inter-particle forces between the solid particles. The stimulus is reversibly operable to control attraction and/or repulsion. Means of consolidating a sediment bed and of separating the resultant liquids-rich and solids-rich phases are also within the ambit of the invention.
US09174851B2
A composition comprising a polyhydroxyoxoaluminum cation detectable at 76 ppm by 27Al NMR that is present in a relative abundance on a 27Al NMR spectrograph that is greater than any other polyhydroxyoxoaluminum cation detectable by 27Al NMR. Also, disclosed are methods of making the composition.
US09174846B2
High-purity crystalline ferric phosphate material with desirable characteristics for use in synthesis of nano-sized LFP cathode material are described. The ferric phosphate dihydrate material has as disclosed herein has a molar ratio of phosphorous to iron is from about 1.001 to about 1.05, a surface area of from about 25 m2/g to about 65 m2/g, and is substantially free of metallic or magnetic impurities. Methods of synthesizing high-purity crystalline ferric phosphate material with desirable characteristics for use in synthesis of nano-sized LFP cathode material are also described. In some embodiments, one or more magnetic traps are used during the reaction process and/or after the formation of the final product to remove magnetic impurities. In some embodiments, a synthetic method of ferric phosphate using multiple steps is described, wherein the intermediate of the synthesis is isolated and purified to improve the purity of the ferric phosphate material. In some embodiments, an iron compound is added to an aqueous solution of phosphoric acid. The solution pH and temperature are controlled to ensure the complete dissolution of the iron compound. The desired iron phosphate crystalline material can be obtained with high purity and high crystalline phase purity by controlling the pH and temperature of the solution.
US09174844B2
A process for producing hydrogen comprising the steps of: (i) gasifying a fuel into a raw synthesis gas comprising CO, hydrogen, steam, sulfur and halide contaminants in the form of H2S, COS, and HX, wherein X is a halide; (ii) passing the raw synthesis gas through a water gas shift reactor (WGSR) into which CaO and steam are injected, the CaO reacting with the shifted gas to remove CO2, sulfur and halides in a solid-phase calcium-containing product comprising CaCO3, CaS and CaX2; (iii) separating the solid-phase calcium-containing product from an enriched gaseous hydrogen product; and (iv) regenerating the CaO by calcining the solid-phase calcium-containing product at a condition selected from the group consisting of: in the presence of steam, in the presence of CO2, in the presence of synthesis gas, in the presence of H2 and O2, under partial vacuum, and combinations thereof.
US09174838B2
A method for fabricating a multiple MEMS device. A semiconductor substrate having a first and second MEMS device, and an encapsulation wafer with a first cavity and a second cavity, which includes at least one channel, can be provided. The first MEMS can be encapsulated within the first cavity and the second MEMS device can be encapsulated within the second cavity. These devices can be encapsulated within a provided first encapsulation environment at a first air pressure, encapsulating the first MEMS device within the first cavity at the first air pressure. The second MEMS device within the second cavity can then be subjected to a provided second encapsulating environment at a second air pressure via the channel of the second cavity.
US09174833B2
The invention relates to a beverage dispense apparatus that maintains syrup containers in a housing, thereby eliminating plumbing required by prior art Bag-in-Box dispensers.
US09174832B2
A capping apparatus for a bottle filling device with a capping head main body; a first slide body is located on the capping head main body and can slide up and down; a capping door mechanism is hinged with the capping head main body and the first slide body; a cap sucking head can slide up and down; a middle slide body is arranged between the cap sucking head and the first slide body and can slide up and down; a first spring and a second spring; and a cap inlet chute. A capping system is equipped with a plurality of capping apparatus, the number of the capping apparatus is equal to that of columns of filled bottles, and the cap sucking heads of the capping apparatus are connected together through a connection structure with a mechanism that actuates the cap sucking heads to rise up and fall down.
US09174815B2
A printing and paper delivery system includes at least two printers disposed adjacent to one another. A first conveyor is coupled to a first printer of the at least two printers such that the first conveyer is configured to receive media output from an output chute of the first printer. A second conveyor is coupled to a second printer of the at least two printers such that the first conveyor is configured to receive media output from an output chute of the second printer. A controller is in signal communication with the first and second conveyors to facilitate the transfer of media from at least one of the at least two printers to a delivery location.
US09174809B2
A system and method for providing adhesive to a pre-formed blister tray having shoulders and recesses between the shoulders, the system having at least one pallet, each pallet of the at least one pallet having with holes to accommodate recesses within the blister tray and support for the shoulders of the blister tray; a pallet loading station for loading the pallet with the pre-formed blister tray; a printer unit for printing adhesive to the shoulders of the blister tray; a drying station for drying the adhesive; and an unloading station for unloading blister trays with adhesive printed on the shoulders thereof. Further a pallet for use in the system.
US09174798B2
A subgrade vault system and method of forming the same is provided. Specifically, a subgrade vault suitable for housing utility and similar equipment is provided, the vault comprising a main body portion, a cap, and a lid that may be selectively secured to prevent or deter unauthorized access to vault contents.
US09174786B2
A valve assembly (2) intended for use together with a pallet container (1) and a liner. The valve assembly (2) comprises a valve (3), a valve seal (4) and an outer lip seal (5). The valve assembly (2) further comprises a support member (6) which is constitutes of a lower guide member (61) and an upper guide member (62).
US09174785B2
A product dispensing system including a container defining an internal volume and an opening into the internal volume, the container including a weakened severance line extending from the opening to define an access panel, and a dispenser including a frame and a catch element, the frame having a support deck and defining a recess sized to receive the access panel, the catch element being positioned to engage the opening in the container, separate the access panel from the container along the weakened severance line, and guide the separated access panel into the recess when the container is moved along the support deck.
US09174784B2
An arrangement for locking together two panels (50, 60) the arrangement comprising a first and second male tabs (39a, 39b) and a first and second female tabs (43) wherein the first and second male tabs are hinged to a first panel by a first and second hinged connection (41) respectively, and the first female tabs are hinged to a second panel by a third hinged connection the first and second hinged connections being divergent with respect to one another.
US09174782B2
A multi-panel sterilization assembly includes a barrier panel formed of a permeable material, a fold protection panel, and at least one panel attachment means. The barrier panel has a first end, an opposed second end, and a midpoint delineating the barrier panel into a content receiving region and a content covering region. Panel attachment means are located at or near edges of the barrier panel to identify the content receiving region. The fold protection panel has a proximal end and an opposed distal end. After the barrier panel is folded at or near the midpoint to bring its second end near its first end and its edges are brought together and secured by the panel attachment means to form a package, the fold protection panel folds at or near a pre-determined fold line to cover at least a portion of the edges of the folded barrier panel.
US09174780B2
Disclosed is a single-piece container adapted to receive and secure an insert card. The container is a generally rectangular, relatively flat structure having an interior chamber defined by a top surface, a bottom surface, one open end, and one closed end. The container is formed from a blow molding process and adapted to receive an insert card. The container further comprises locking elements that work in cooperation with the insert card to secure the insert card within the interior chamber such that it can not be removed without manipulation of the locking elements. The material comprising the container can be a clear plastic such that optical scan codes present on an insert card contained within the container can be read through the container.
US09174774B2
The present invention is concerned with flexible cooking containers which the user can fill with selected foodstuff and then seal same prior to inserting in the microwave oven for preferably cooking the contents at greater than atmospheric pressure for improved health/hygiene reasons and for improved taste and flavor. The user can thus select the nature of the foodstuffs which are to be cooked.
US09174773B2
A closure clip is provided for closing tubular or bag-shaped packaging for bulk produce such as fruit or vegetables. The closure clip includes a first arm and a second arm extending substantially in a plane and aligned at least approximately parallel to each other, with the arms each having first and second ends and a base portion extending in the center plane defined by the arms and having an inner and an outer surface, with the base portion connecting the first and second arms at their first ends and forming an approximately U-shaped closure clip. The closure clip further includes a first spike having a first end and a second end, extending from the inner surface of the base portion between the arms and parallel thereto, and connected with its first end to the base portion. The closure clip further has at least one second spike having first and second ends.
US09174772B2
The invention concerns a device comprising a base; a circuit comprising a bag comprising two flexible films and conveying network connectors, and a press (9) comprising a first shell (16) disposed upright on a front face (5) of said base (2) and a second shell (17) mounted on said first shell (16), said first shell (16) and second shell (17) clamping said bag to form conduits; said bag comprising first through apertures on one side and said first shell (16) comprising hooking studs (106) on an upper part, which studs (106) pass through said first apertures.
US09174771B2
The present invention relates generally to a packaging system for preserving a nonoxygenated hemoglobin based oxygen therapeutic agent. More specifically, the present invention relates to a transparent overwrap packaging system comprising a primary product contacting package, a secondary package comprising a multilayer high barrier oxygen overwrap.
US09174768B2
A fabrication machine is disclosed herein. In various aspects, the fabrication machine includes a brake adapted to mechanically cooperate with a wrapper to impart a longitudinal tension to the wrapper by controlling the force required to advance the wrapper, the wrapper comprised of a cellulose-based material. The brake is adjustable to allow selection of longitudinal tension in the wrapper, in various aspects. Various aspects may include a wrapper roll in mechanical cooperation with the brake, the wrapper being drawn from the wrapper roll as the wrapper is advanced. The fabrication machine secures the wrapper at the selected tension about the core to form a structural member, in various aspects. Methods of use of the fabrication machine are disclosed herein. This Abstract is presented to meet requirements of 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) only. This Abstract is not intended to identify key elements of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein or to delineate the scope thereof.
US09174762B2
The present invention relates to a popup-structure intended to accommodate a card, preferably a gift card (K) of bank card format, and comprising a first cover (1) and a second cover (3) which are joined together by a first fold line (A). Distinguishing features of the popup-structure according to the present invention are that it comprises a second panel element (11) which has an extent between a second fold line (B) and a third fold line (C), that the second fold line (B) is connected to the first cover (1), that the third fold line (C) is movable freely relative to the second cover (3), that the second fold line (B) and the third fold line (C) are parallel with one another, that a third panel element (30) extends between the third fold line (C) and a fifth fold line (E) which is connected to the second cover (3), that the third panel element (30) connects via a fourth fold line (D) to a tongue (20) which forms part of the popup-structure, that the tongue (20) is intended to support the card (K), that the fourth fold line (D) extends between an inner end of the third fold line (C) and an inner end of the fifth fold line (E), and that the fifth fold line (E) has a length (L2) which is greater than the length (L1) of the third fold line (C).
US09174760B2
A bottle crate (10) is provided that is configured to hold a plurality of bottles in a generally upright orientation, and is particularly designed to hold bottles having a variable diameter. The bottle crate can include at least one tray and a plurality of fingers (601) elastically arranged on the tray, such that the fingers are configured to move in response to insertion or removal of a bottle.
US09174746B1
Present novel and non-trivial system, device and method for generating visual aid image data are disclosed. In one embodiment, an image generator receives navigation data representative of at least one surface of interest (e.g., runway of intended landing) and aircraft position; retrieves navigation reference data representative of surface information; creates zone data representative of a lighting awareness zone for each surface of interest; receives first image data from a first source; and generates second image data as a function of the first image data and the zone data, thereby generating a visual aid to increase situational awareness of a pilot by enhancing his or her ability to detect or recognize the runway environment as presented by an enhanced image. In an additional embodiment, the image generator receives and includes third image data in the function for generating the second data.
US09174741B2
A hybrid powertrain for an aircraft may include a drive shaft, the drive shaft, an internal combustion engine to selectably drive the drive shaft, a propeller coupled to the drive shaft and an electric motor having a stator and a rotor and operable to selectably drive the drive shaft. The drive shaft may extend through the electric motor. The rotor may be coupled to the drive shaft to rotate with the drive shaft and the rotor is a flywheel for the internal combustion engine.
US09174737B2
An aircraft passenger seat configured to recline and including a seatpan pivotally attached to a seatback, a spreader defining a non-linear guide path controlling the seatpan angle as the seat reclines, translating seatback linkage defining a non-linear guide path controlling the seatback angle as the seat reclines, and a drive link arranged to translate horizontally relative to the spreader to drive seat recline motion.
US09174735B2
A sealing device for mounting a monument on a structural element of an aircraft and for providing a seal between the sealing device and the floor of the aircraft is provided. The sealing device comprises a cylindrical element with a pin for attaching the sealing device to the structural element and a recess for receiving another pin of a mounting device to which the monument is attached. The sealing device may have a smaller diameter than a mounting block of the mounting device such that the seal cannot be damaged by trolley wheels.
US09174732B2
A method involves operating an aerial vehicle to travel along a first closed path on a tether sphere while oriented in a crosswind-flight orientation. A tether is connected to the aerial vehicle on a first end and is connected to a ground station on a second end. Further, the tether sphere has a radius corresponding to a length of the tether. The method further involves while the aerial vehicle is in the crosswind-flight orientation, operating the aerial vehicle to travel along a second closed path on the tether sphere, such that a speed of the aerial vehicle is reduced. And the method involves after or while the speed of the aerial vehicle is reduced, transitioning the aerial vehicle from traveling along the second closed path while in the crosswind-flight orientation to a hover-flight orientation.
US09174722B2
A panel assembly that includes a first panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, and a second panel having an inner surface and an outer surface. The second panel includes a plurality of rib members formed therein that extend inwardly. The rib members include an inner surface and an outer surface. A plurality of panel portions are defined between the plurality of rib members. The panel portions include an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the rib members are secured to the inner surface of the first panel, and the inner surface of the panel portions is spaced apart from the inner surface of the first panel to define at least first and second cavities.
US09174717B2
Provided is an intake air cooling system for a marine vessel having a turbocharger. The intake air cooling system for the marine vessel includes: a turbocharger which compresses the intake air introduced from the outside using a portion of the exhaust gas generated by the engine, wherein the turbocharger has a front end through which the intake air is introduced and a rear end through which the compressed intake air is supplied to the engine; a cooling part which cools at least one of the intake air compressed in the turbocharger and the exhaust gas passing through the turbocharger, wherein the cooling part includes one or more cooling units disposed along the flow of the intake air or the exhaust gas; and an absorption cooling device which receives heat from the working fluid circulated through the cooling unit.
US09174712B2
An apparatus for deploying a line includes a disc having a generally V-shaped circumferential channel for retaining the line prior to deployment. The V-shaped channel guides a first wound turn of the line toward the central plane of the disc, and provides an enlarged space into which the turns of the line are unwound during deployment. The enlarged space prevents tangling of the line when the turns are unwound from the disc during deployment.
US09174702B1
A snowmobile has a frame including a tunnel, a least one ski operatively connected to the frame, a seat disposed above the tunnel, a fuel tank disposed on the frame, and an engine connected to the frame forwardly of the fuel tank. The engine has at least one cylinder, at least one intake port, at least one exhaust port, and a laterally extending output shaft defining an output shaft axis. An endless track is disposed at least in part under the tunnel and is operatively connected to the engine. An air intake system is fluidly connected to the at least one intake port. An exhaust system is fluidly connected to the at least one exhaust port. The exhaust system includes a muffler disposed between the output shaft axis and the fuel tank in a longitudinal direction of the snowmobile.
US09174700B2
A control device for a derailleur of a bicycle is described, comprising a support body, a cable-winding bush supported for rotation with respect to the support body, an indexer mechanism housed in the support body and suitable for controlling the angular position of the cable-winding bush, and a single manual actuation lever, the indexer mechanism comprising a toothed wheel integral in rotation with the cable-winding bush and having a first and a second plurality of slanting teeth, a first pawl integral with a driven arm of the lever and brought into thrusting engagement upon the first teeth while the lever is manually moved in a first direction beyond a predetermined rotation threshold, and a second pawl driven out of retention engagement with the second teeth by the driven arm of the lever while the lever is manually moved in the first direction up to the predetermined rotation threshold.
US09174699B2
A bicycle tow device that attaches to a bicycle to allow the bicycle to tow one or more other bicycles or carry one or more bicycle tires. In some versions the tow device can be installed on the towing bicycle without tools and a towed bicycle can be attached to the tow device without tools. One version of the tow device includes an adjustable support to adjust the tow device so that bicycles of varying frame and tire sizes may be towed. The tow device may also include a skirt within a guide to gently secure the towed bicycle to the tow device.
US09174689B2
A vehicle headlight can form a predetermined high-beam light distribution pattern, while being capable of causing the chromaticity of the entire light distribution pattern to fall within a white range (JIS D5500). The vehicle headlight can include: a projection lens that can control light incident on its light incident surface at a first incident position near its optical axis to be directed in a direction not parallel to the optical axis, can control light incident at a second incident position away from the optical axis to be directed in a direction parallel to the optical axis, and can control light incident at an incident position between the first and second incident positions to be directed in a direction closer to the direction parallel to the optical axis as the light is incident at an incident position closer from the first incident position to the second incident position.
US09174685B2
In one embodiment, the present disclosure is a modular construction of at least one partition panel combined with a structural footer rail, at least one close out wing, at least one header panel, optional gaskets to provide sound deadening between the cargo side and the cab side of the vehicle interior, and a structural reinforcing hoop to provide rigidity to the partition structure and create a “box” structure to the partition.
US09174672B2
A method for calculating a virtual target path around a target object that includes providing scan points identifying detected objects and separating the scan points into target object scan points and other object scan points. The method identifies a closest scan point from the target object scan points and identifies a path point that is a predetermined safe distance from the closest scan point. The method determines a straight target line adjacent to the target object that goes through the path point, and determines a distance between the target line and each of the other objects and determines whether all of the distances are greater than a predetermined threshold distance. The method identifies curve points for each other object whose distance is less than the predetermined threshold distance, and identifies a curve path that connects the curve points to be the virtual target path using a quadratic polynomial function.
US09174660B2
The purchasing aid is temporarily connected to a housing for the advertising surface which is permanently present, said housing being arranged fixedly on the shopping trolley, wherein the fastening for the purchasing aid is arranged outside the advertising surface, and the advertising surface which is permanently present can optionally also be used as a display for the purchasing aid.
US09174658B2
A collapsible wheelbarrow has a barrow formed of a plurality of panels that are hinged together to transition between an erected state in which the panels are configured to define the operative barrow and a collapsed state in which most or all of the panels are not folded together and the barrow is relatively flattened out extending over a greater ground area than when in the erected state so that the barrow in the collapsed, flattened state can function as a ground sheet, having an enlarged surface area. For a gardener this makes it much better for collecting leaves, grass or other garden cuttings or materials, which may be swept or raked directly onto the flattened but floor area-expanded barrow before then raising/erecting the barrow to its operative wheelbarrow state to be wheeled off to a compost heap or other location.
US09174656B2
A freight car having insulative material interposed between inner and outer enclosures of the freight car.
US09174638B2
A control apparatus for a hybrid vehicle includes a drive mode control portion and a battery degradation determination portion. The chive mode control portion sets the drive mode to a CD mode after the charging of a battery by a battery charger ends as the state of charge of the battery reaches a first predetermined range. The drive mode control portion switches the drive mode to a CS mode if, after the hybrid vehicle starts driving in the CD mode, the state of charge of the battery declines to a second predetermined range that is lower than the first predetermined range. The battery degradation determination portion performs determination regarding degradation of the battery on the basis of data collected while the vehicle is driving.
US09174635B2
The present invention describes a method for actuating the cruise control function in a vehicle equipped with hybrid driving, comprising at least a primary driving and an electric driving. The method comprises the steps of: —cyclic check of the possibility of activation of the cruise control function; if positive—activation of the electric driving of the type “electric cruise-control” (ElCC), and deactivation of the primary driving, if a cyclic check of the conditions of activation of the electric driving is positive; otherwise—activation of the primary driving of the type “engine cruise-cruise control” (EnCC), and deactivation of the electric driving.
US09174632B2
The present teachings provide for a power transmitting component including a friction clutch, a reservoir, a hydraulic ram to actuate the clutch, a motor, and first and second pumps simultaneously driven by the motor. The first pump is in fluid communication with the reservoir and the ram. The first pump is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to the ram when the motor rotates in a first direction. The second pump is coupled to the reservoir and provides hydraulic fluid to the ram when the output shaft rotates in the first direction and a pressure differential between the ram and the second pump is less than or equal to a predetermined pressure differential. The second pump has a displacement greater than the first pump and is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to the ram at a lower pressure and higher flow rate than the first pump.
US09174629B2
A vehicle includes a driving source, a shutter device, and a controller. The driving source is configured to generate a driving force. The shutter device is configured to adjust an amount of air for cooling the driving source. The controller is configured to control the driving source and is configured to restrict an operation of the driving source based on a temperature of the driving source when a failure of the shutter device is detected.
US09174616B2
A method applying a line lock feature, i.e. a wheel hold mode, with a brake system for a vehicle comprises initiating a wheel hold mode for the brake system and applying pressure to the wheels of a non-driven axle. The wheel brake pressure is maintained at the wheels of the non-driven axle independent of application of the brake pedal. The wheel brake pressure at the wheels of the non-driven axle is released when a release trigger event occurs. The release trigger event may be an automatic trigger event or a driver actuated trigger event.
US09174612B2
Embodiments for heating a vehicle driveline are provided. One example method for a vehicle comprises heating a fluid with kinetic vehicle energy in response to a vehicle braking request, and directing the fluid to a driveline component. In this way, kinetic vehicle energy during a vehicle braking event may be used to heat a driveline component.
US09174611B2
Novel adapters, connectors and wiper blade assemblies including same for securing windshield wiper blades and arms are described, including those that accommodate side-saddle wiper arms. A wiper blade adapter may have a mounting portion comprising a wiper blade securing element, the wiper securing element being capable of securing a wiper blade, and a side-saddle portion comprising a connector securing element, the connector securing element being capable of securing a connector that is capable of securing a wiper arm.
US09174604B2
An activation system for actuators of a vehicle seat device, including a first control device; a gas pressure accumulator having a gas pressure accumulator valve situated on it; a pressure distribution device functionally connected to the gas pressure accumulator; and a connecting device situated between the first control device and the pressure distribution device, the actuators being activatable as a function of an accident characteristic which is ascertainable with the aid of the first control device and which is transmittable to the pressure distribution device.
US09174602B1
A vehicle includes a pillar garnish mounted at a side pillar assembly of the vehicle. The pillar garnish has an upper end portion, a roof head lining with an outer portion that extends along the upper end portion of the pillar garnish, and an airbag jump bracket fixedly located between a pillar body and the roof head lining. The airbag jump bracket includes a first portion extending in a vehicle height direction and a second portion extending outwardly from the first portion in a vehicle width direction. The second portion supports an airbag body that guides the airbag body toward an occupant compartment of the vehicle during an airbag deployment event. The airbag jump bracket further includes an outwardly turned flange portion that extends outwardly in the vehicle width direction to underhang the second portion of the airbag jump bracket. The outwardly turned flange portion has an underside and terminates at an end located beneath the second portion of the airbag jump bracket. The pillar garnish includes an airbag jump bracket engaging feature including a tower engaging portion and a ledge engaging portion. The ledge engaging portion includes a ledge engaging surface that engages the outwardly turned flange portion during an airbag deployment event in the vehicle height direction and the tower engaging portion includes a tower engaging surface that engages the outwardly turned flange portion during an airbag deployment event in a vehicle width direction.
US09174601B2
In at least certain embodiments, the vehicle seat assembly comprises a frame, a seat pad, a trim cover extending over the seat pad with the cover having a release seam, and an air bag assembly including an inflator and an air bag. In accordance with this embodiment, the air bag assembly includes an air bag guide associating the air bag assembly with the release seam, with one of the air bag guide and the air bag having rear ends connected to opposite sides of the other of the air bag guide and the air bag.
US09174594B2
A crash box for a vehicle may include a first plate having a middle end formed with a cylindrical first flange protruding in one direction, a second plate having a middle end formed with a cylindrical second flange protruding in another direction, a pipe having each of both ends coupled to the corresponding first and second flanges respectively, and an impact absorbing device configured to absorb an impact while the first flange and the pipe matched with each other through the impact absorbing device may be shear-deformed at a time of crash by pressing an overlapping portion of the first flange and one end of the pipe to deform shapes of a pressed portion of the first flange and the pipe into shapes matched with each other.
US09174587B2
A positioning apparatus for seat headrest posts in vehicle is provided, including a retractable rod, two clamping units and a connection joint unit; wherein the retractable rod having an extendible rod able to extend and retract; a locking assembly being disposed on the outer surface of the retractable rod; the locking assembly being able to fasten the position after lateral adjustment of the retractable rod; the two clamping units being disposed on the retractable rod for clamping onto the posts of seat headrest; the connection joint unit being disposed to the end of the extendible rod for engaging an object to be mounted here. As such, when an electronic device, such as, tablet or thin screen display is mounted to the connection joint unit, the position of the electronic device can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the extendible rod for convenient viewing.
US09174586B2
A storage compartment apparatus for a door of a vehicle includes an elongated body that extends along an axis. The elongated body includes impact-absorbing elements arranged along the axis and an axially elongated storage compartment opening at an axial end and coextending with the impact-absorbing elements along the axis.
US09174584B1
A bicycle carrier for a vehicle may include guide rails symmetrically disposed at both sides of a rear bumper beam and extending in a front-rear direction of the vehicle, a sliding rail including a panel and sides extending from the panel, and sliding forward and backward on the guide rails, an expanding link disposed between the sides of the sliding rails and including a plurality of links connected such that a lateral gap between the links increases, when a front-rear gap between the links decreases, support arms disposed on the expanding link to move laterally with the expanding link, slidably engaged with the sliding rails, and fixing a loaded bicycle, and an actuating unit fixed to the rear bumper beam, including a link assembly connected to the sliding rail and the expanding link, and providing power through the link assembly during operation to move the sliding rail and expand or contract the expanding link.
US09174582B2
A vehicular cargo retention system includes a first cargo retention rail pivotally coupled with a load floor. A second cargo retention rail is pivotally coupled with the load floor. The first cargo retention rail is configured to rotate to a position above the second cargo retention rail. First and second shelves are operably coupled to a vehicle seatback. The first and second shelves are operable between a stowed position, wherein each of the first and second shelves is generally coplanar with the seatback, and a deployed position, wherein the first and second shelves extend generally horizontally.
US09174570B2
A wireless light and accessory control system for golf carts (18) and other vehicles having a sender (1) that permits a user to remotely activate various accessories, such as headlights (2), turn signals (4), horns (5) and other accessories, such as radios, dome lights, etc., by sending signals via a wireless transmitter (12) located in the sender to controllers (13) located in each of the accessories. In addition, brake lights (3) may be activated and deactivated by a motion sensing means (10) in addition to being deactivated after a predetermined amount of time by a timer (11).
US09174566B1
An apparatus and method for reminding a motor vehicle driver to take some action before exiting the vehicle. A reminder ribbon apparatus is disclosed. One end of the reminder ribbon is held in place at the driver's right side, as by being attached to the strap bracket anchoring the female seat belt buckle to the vehicle. The other end of the reminder ribbon is attached, as with a spring clip, to the seat belt when the seat belt buckle assembly is engaged to place the seat belt in the use position across the driver's torso. When the seat belt buckle assembly is disengaged, the reminder ribbon is drawn across the driver's torso by the automatically retracting seatbelt. The driver is reminded, by the presence of the ribbon across his torso, to take an action, for example to attend to a child in the back seat of the vehicle, before exiting.
US09174559B2
A headrest that is constructed and arranged to be mounted to one or more support rods that are adapted to be coupled to the backrest of a seat of a vehicle. The headrest has a main body portion and a separate bushing that is positioned at least partially in the main body portion. The bushing has a receptacle that is adapted to receive a portion of a support rod. The bushing is constructed and arranged to partially damp forces that are coupled to the bushing through the main body portion.
US09174553B2
A seat, in particular motor vehicle seat, with a seat part and a backrest pivotally mounted relative to the seat part, which includes a backrest frame with two mutually opposite side bars, is provided. The two side bars are connected with each other via a transverse shaft which is rotatably mounted on the seat part in the region of a side bar. At least one fitting arrangement with a fitting part fixed at the backrest frame is provided, in order to arrest the pivotally mounted backrest relative to the seat part. The fitting part fixed at the backrest frame is welded to one of the side bars and the transverse shaft is welded to this fitting part. An end of the transverse shaft extends through one of the two side bars and this end is rotatably mounted in a seat side part of the seat part, so that the transverse shaft defines a pivot axis about which the backrest is pivotable relative to the seat part.
US09174535B2
An apparatus and method for controlling a speed in an excess speed enforcement section are provided. The method includes determining one of a target speed, a lower limit speed, and a speed limit as a final target speed using a relationship between a target speed, a lower limit speed, and a speed limit. A required acceleration is calculated based on the final target speed and the vehicle speed and the vehicle speed is adjusted using the required acceleration.
US09174526B2
In a drive controller for a vehicle including: a drive source configured to output a drive force to a first axle serving as one of front and rear wheel axles; an electric motor configured to output a drive force to a second axle serving as the other of the front and rear wheel axles; a one-way power transmission device disposed on a power transmission pathway between the second axle and the electric motor so as to transmit a power drive force from the electric motor to the second axle; a two-way power transmission device that transmits a rotation power from the second axle to the electric motor or transmits the power drive force and a regeneration drive force from the electric motor to the second axle, the drive controller includes: a first detector that detects a speed of the vehicle or a rotation speed of the second axle; a target rotation speed determination section that determines a target rotation speed of the electric motor based on the speed of the vehicle or the rotation speed of the second axle; a second detector that detects a rotation speed of the electric motor; and a controller that controls the electric motor such that the rotation speed of the electric motor is synchronized with the target rotation speed and that controls an output torque of the electric motor or an activation of the two-way power transmission device, when the electric motor starts power drive or regeneration drive while the vehicle is traveling by the drive force from the drive source.
US09174523B2
A hybrid-electric power transmission system may include: an input shaft; an output shaft; a first planetary gear set on the input shaft, and including a first rotation element connected to a first motor/generator, a second rotation element connected to the output shaft, and a third rotation element directly connected to the input shaft; a second planetary gear set on the input shaft, and including a fourth rotation element directly connected to a second motor/generator and selectively connected to the third rotation element, a fifth rotation element connected to the output shaft, and a sixth rotation element connected to a transmission housing; transfer gears; and frictional elements selectively connecting two rotation elements among three rotation elements of the second planetary gear set, selectively connecting the third rotation element to the fourth rotation element, or selectively connecting the sixth rotation element to the transmission housing.
US09174520B2
An electric vehicle wherein at least part of a cell unit is provided along an inclined part of a rear dividing wall. A bottom end of the cell unit is positioned lower than the hip point of a passenger. As seen from the vehicle-width direction, motor mounts are positioned so that the top part of the cell unit and part of the motor mounts overlap in the vertical direction of the electric vehicle.
US09174512B2
A heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning system (10) for an automobile vehicle, including a heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning housing (100) capable of allowing the thermal treatment of an air conditioning airflow to be used to maintain a desired temperature within the cabin, the heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning housing (100) having a primary distributor (132b, 133b, 134b) for the air conditioning air within the vehicle cabin so as to define a limited number of distribution configurations. The heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning system (10) includes an additional module (200) having additional distributors (212b, 213b) for the air conditioning airflow out of the cabin.
US09174506B2
A chassis system for commercial vehicles includes an axle stub element and a linkage element, wherein the linkage element has a recess and the axle stub element has a first mounting section, wherein the first mounting section is arranged in the recess of the linkage element and is force-locked at the recess due to a shaping process, and wherein an adhesive layer, via which a material band is formed between the first mounting section of the axle stub element and the recess of the linkage element, is provided between the first mounting section and the recess.
US09174505B2
An independent suspension (10) of a vehicle includes a knuckle (22) intended to carry a wheel (W), a damper (12) connected at a bottom end thereof to the knuckle (22), and a plurality of arms (14, 24) connected to a body (B) of the vehicle and the knuckle (22). A hinge device (30; 34) is interposed between the damper (12) and knuckle (22) to allow the damper (12) and knuckle (22) to rotate relative to each other about an axis of articulation (H) that is oriented to form an acute angle with a horizontal. A torsional stiffness control device (32; 34; 34, 70) is interposed between the damper (12) and knuckle (22) to control torsional stiffness of an articulated connection between the damper (12) and knuckle (22) about the axis of articulation (H).
US09174501B2
A system is described for detachably securing a housing to a ball hitch (e.g. of the type used in trucks for towing). The system includes a tubular housing for fitting over the ball, and attachment means for detachably securing the housing to the ball. A workpiece can then be secured to the housing, as desired. A preferred attachment means is a pair of opposing lock pins which are movable between retracted and extended positions. When the pins are in the extended position, they secure the housing to the ball hitch. The type of workpieces may vary. For example, the workpiece may be a work table, a vise, a fifth-wheel hitch system, a winch, or an arm for a lift bucket.
US09174485B2
Disclosed is a stretching device for artistic media, which includes a pair of horizontal and vertical frame members. The horizontal frame members and the vertical frame members can be removably connected by means of L-shaped joints to form a rectangular frame. Each of the horizontal frame members and the vertical frame members include an upper flat bar and a lower flat bar slideably attached thereto by means of slide screws. The upper flat bar and the lower flat bar can be brought closer together so as to hold an edge of a piece of paper therebetween by adjusting clamping screws affixed thereto. The upper flat bar and the lower flat bar can be moved away from the horizontal frame member or the vertical frame member by means of stretch knob screws. In one embodiment, the device may be utilized to stretch watercolor paper and prevent the paper from wrinkling.
US09174477B2
An article is printed based upon predetermined artwork. The artwork includes the specification of a palette of ink colors to be used in printing the article. Each of the colors is specified by a full tone color target and an undertone color target. Each ink formulation has a combined full tone L-C-H-a-b dE equal to or less than about 2, and a combined undertone dE less than or equal to about 3. The specification of ink colors may also include a light fastness value. The ink colors may be further specified by way of a proofing index value.
US09174466B2
A printer includes a feeding portion configured to feed a printing medium, a printing portion including a plurality of heating elements configured to perform printing of one line at a time on the printing medium, and a processor configured to specify numbers of ON dots for at least a first specified block and a second specified block, specify first speeds that respectively correspond to at least the first specified block and the second specified block based on the numbers of ON dots, set a second speed for the second specified block based on the first speeds that respectively correspond to the first specified block and the second specified block, such that the printing medium is fed at the first speed for the first specified block when the printing of the first specified block is performed, and control the feeding portion and the printing portion.
US09174461B2
An image-forming method that comprises: a process of discharging a radiation-curable inkjet ink, which contains a photopolymerizable compound, a photopolymerization initiator, and a gelling agent and which undergoes a phase transition depending on the temperature, on a recording medium; and a process of curing the radiation-curable inkjet ink discharged on the recording medium by irradiating active radiation thereon. The method performs the irradiation with the active radiation so that the maximum illuminance at the surface of the recording medium is 2-5 W/cm2 and in the distribution of illuminance in the irradiated region at the surface of the recording medium in the direction of recording medium conveyance, the half-width of the illuminance is 20 mm or more. Using said image-forming method, productivity is high and images with excellent gloss homogeneity, surface curability and abrasion properties can be formed.
US09174445B1
The present disclosure is directed to a microfluidic die having a substrate with an inlet path that is configured to move fluid into the die. The die includes a plurality of heaters formed above the substrate, each heater having a first area, a plurality of chambers formed above the plurality of heaters, and a plurality of nozzles formed above the chambers. Each nozzle having an entrance adjacent to the chamber and an exit adjacent to en external environment, the entrance having a second area, and the second having a third area, the first area being greater than the second area, and the second area being greater than the third area. A ratio of the first area to the third area being greater than 5 to 1.
US09174428B2
A print press system and a method are described herein that print an electronic circuit onto a material (e.g., glass substrate, plastic film, plastic film-glass substrate laminate). In exemplary applications, the print press system can print an electronic circuit onto a material to form, for instance, a flexible Liquid Crystal Display, a retail point of purchase sign and an e-book.
US09174409B2
A media substrate for imaging includes a front and back surface defining a thickness. The front receives imaging fluid and absorbs it. The back has scoring lines extending into the thickness that limit curling of the media substrate as the absorbed fluid dries on the front. Patterns and locations of scoring lines as well as their depth into the thickness are noted. Imaging and scoring stations in an imaging device are still other embodiments as are cutting features for scoring.
US09174406B1
A waste compactor configured to compact waste into a plurality of compacted waste units for disposal in a waste container. There is a compaction chamber and a ram assembly disposed within the compaction chamber. There is an actuator interconnected to the ram assembly to apply a force to move the ram assembly from a retracted position toward an extended position to achieve a pressure on a compaction surface of the ram assembly as it compacts the waste. There is a plurality of apertures on at least one internal surface proximate of the compaction chamber through which liquid removed from the waste during the compaction mode exits the compaction chamber. There is also a liquid collection system, in communication with the plurality of apertures, to collect the liquid from the plurality of apertures. The liquid collection system includes an evaporation system configured to evaporate a portion of the liquid.
US09174399B2
In order to produce high-quality optical elements stably at all times without the flow of molten resin inside an injection molding cavity being hindered by the protrusion of the outer peripheral edge of a lens after compression molding, a cavity formed when a pair of molds for molding is closed is provided with: an optical-function-part molding cavity (27); an annular connection-part molding cavity (28) connected to the outer peripheral edge of the optical-function-part molding cavity; and an edge-part molding cavity (29) connected to the outer peripheral edge of the connection-part molding cavity. In a compression molding step, a protrusion part is formed by making a portion of a compression molding material bulge out from the connection-part molding cavity into the edge-part molding cavity (29). In an injection molding step, the molds are filled by injecting an injection molding material into the edge-part molding cavity (29). The resin of the protrusion part that has protruded from the connection-part molding cavity into the edge-part molding cavity (29) is biased toward one direction of the molds so as not to hinder the flow of the injection molding resin. The biased amount is set such that, when the cross section of the resin that has protruded into the edge-part molding cavity (29) is divided by a perpendicular bisector (L) that is perpendicular to the optical axis and that divides the thickness of the connection part in half, the cross-sectional area on the biased side includes greater than or equal to 60% of the cross-sectional area of the protruded resin.
US09174393B2
A method of fabricating a thermoplastic composite tubular structure provides a mandrel of a soluble, expandable material. The method overbraids the mandrel with a continuous fiber thermoplastic composite material to form an overbraided mandrel. The method installs the overbraided mandrel into a matched tooling assembly. The method heats in a heating apparatus the matched tooling assembly with the installed overbraided mandrel at a specified heating profile in order to consolidate the thermoplastic composite material and form a thermoplastic composite tubular structure. The method cools the matched tooling assembly with the formed thermoplastic composite tubular structure at a specified cooling profile. The method removes the formed thermoplastic composite tubular structure from the matched tooling assembly. The method solubilizes the mandrel to permanently remove the mandrel from the formed thermoplastic composite tubular structure.
US09174385B2
The invention relates to a method and a device for modifying in a spatially periodic manner at least in some regions a surface of a substrate (24), said surface being disposed on a sample plane (P) for which end different regions (211, 221, 231, 232) of the substrate surface are acted upon successively with a spatially periodic illumination pattern of an energy density above a processing threshold of the substrate surface, where the illumination pattern is generated by diffraction of an input beam (10) and superimposition of resulting, diffracted sub-beams (12, 14) by means of a grid interferometer (100), and where, in order to select the substrate surface region to be illuminated in each case (211, 221, 231, 232), the input beam (10) is deviated by means of a beam-deviating unit (16) arranged upstream of the grid interferometer (100).
US09174380B2
A self-cleaning plasticizing venting and extruding apparatus by co-rotating non-twin multi-screws and a method thereof are provided, said apparatus comprises a screw mechanism, barrel, feeding port, venting port, discharging port, and driving mechanism. Said screw mechanism comprises non-uniform central screw and lateral screws, the axis of the central screw coincides with the barrel, and the lateral screws are provided on both sides of the central screw and engaged with the central screw; the contour lines of the threads of said central screw and said lateral screws are tangent to the inner wall of the barrel; and said driving mechanism is connected to the central screw and lateral screws. Each screw-uses an asymmetrical flow channel shape, so the flow space is asymmetric, and the compounding intensity and effectiveness enhanced. The dispersion and mixing effects are excellent, generating a self-cleaning effect. The system is suitable for high yield nano-material processing.
US09174374B2
The invention relates to a plunger for feeding encapsulating material to a mould cavity, comprising at least one peripheral groove recessed into the cylinder casing of the plunger whereby a material part is placed in the groove which only partly fills the groove. The invention also related to a device for encapsulating electronic components mounted on a carrier. In addition, the invention also relates to a method for sealing a fitting of a plunger housing, which plunger is adapted to feed encapsulating material under pressure to a mould cavity.
US09174373B2
A hot channel distributor arrangement for a hot channel system that can particularly be heated during a heating phase, which is designed to supply plastic melt from a pour-in opening for at least two nozzle arrangements that can be moved relative to and independently of one another, each having at least one outlet opening in the region of a nozzle body, wherein at least one main distributor block having at least one main distributor arm is provided, said main distributor block being rotatable around a first rotational axis, wherein at least one auxiliary distributor block is arranged on the at least one main distributor block, said auxiliary distributor block forming at least one auxiliary distributor arm and being rotatable around a second rotational axis, wherein an angle between the main distributor block and the auxiliary distributor block is adjustable, wherein at least one of the nozzle arrangements is provided on each auxiliary distributor arm, and wherein the angle between the main distributor arm and auxiliary distributor arm changes due to thermal expansion at least during the heating phase.
US09174368B2
The retardation film of the present invention contains at least one of an epoxy resin cured product and an epoxy (meth)acrylate resin cured product. In the retardation film of the present invention, in-plane birefringence index thereof at a wavelength of 590 nm is preferably 0.001 or more and a birefringence index in a thickness direction thereof at a wavelength of 590 nm is preferably 0.001 or more.
US09174367B2
The present invention relates to an arrangement for treatment of articles by hot pressing and, in particular, by hot isostatic pressing. In particular, the present invention relates to a pressing arrangement for treatment of articles by hot pressing, and preferably hot isostatic pressing, capable of providing a controlled, rapid cooling rate. The pressing arrangement comprises a pressure vessel including a furnace chamber comprising a heat insulated casing and a furnace adapted to hold the articles. At least one cooling circuit is arranged on an outside of the pressure vessel, the cooling circuit comprising a coolant and being arranged to enable the coolant to flow along a central portion of an outer wall of the pressure vessel. The pressure vessel is arranged with a non-uniform wall thickness, where the vessel wall is thickest at upper and lower end portions of the pressure vessel.
US09174366B2
The mold has a mold surface on which is formed as a release film a water-repellent and oil-repellent fluorocarbon-based chemisorbed film having a thickness that is uniform in nanoscale and having a controlled surface energy. As a result, even when a mold has an ultrafine shape on the nanometer scale, the mold allows high precision molding excellent in fluidity and penetrativity of a molding material. In addition, this mold eliminates the application of a release agent and can prevent a release agent from adhering to a molded article.
US09174358B2
During the manufacture of slabs with a veined effect a liquid or powder coloring agent is deposited on the surface of a thin layer of starting mixture by means of at least one dispensing device (40) and the resultant mixture is supplied, falling freely, from one end of an extractor belt (30) forming the bottom of a mixture metering/distributor unit, following which the mixture is transferred, falling freely, onto a temporary molding support (14). This results in the production of slabs provided with veining extending through the entire thickness of the slabs and also visible along the whole edge of the slab, even after it has been machined.
US09174357B2
An extrusion-forming device includes an extruding portion having a drum including a supply port through which a clay flows into the inside, a screw having a rotary shaft and a rotary blade and configured to convey the clay, and an extrusion port through which the clay is discharged; and a forming portion having a die provided with forming grooves. The device includes, as the screw on the side of the supply port, supply port side screws having two rotary blades and, as the screw on the side of the extrusion port, a extrusion port side screw having one rotary blade, and a ratio P/D is in a range of 0.5 to 0.9.
US09174348B2
The invention relates to a cutting tool (1) comprising: a first handle (2) and a first blade (3) fixedly attached to each other, a second handle (4) and a second blade (5) pivotably attached to each other by a first pivot (6) and a second pivot (7). In order to obtain a cutting tool with an optimal cutting force, the cutting tool comprises a limiter (11) allowing the back end (9′) to move sideways (S) in relation to the second handle (4) and preventing the back end (9) at least from moving away from the second handle (4) in an axial direction (A) of the first pivot (6).
US09174347B2
A utility knife has a handle and a blade holder that holds a utility blade for selective removal and replacement of the utility blade. The blade holder is pivotally carried by the handle for pivotal movement in an arcuate path relative to the handle between a retracted position and an extended position.
US09174346B2
A loading/unloading robot includes an arm unit attached to a support unit that is capable of being raised and lowered and a hand unit for conveying a loaded/unloaded object, attached to the arm unit. The support unit includes a base portion capable of revolving around a raising/lowering axis and a head portion rotatably attached to the base portion. The arm unit includes arms that are rotatably attached to the head portion. Front ends of the arms move forward and backward along a forward/backward direction that passes the head portion. The hand unit includes a loading/unloading hand rotatably attached to the arm. A center distance from the rotational axis of the head portion to the rotational axes of rear arms is shorter than a center distance from an axis of revolution of the base portion to the rotational axis of the head portion.
US09174341B2
A screwing device (1) and a screwing method use a multi-member (12, 13, 14, 15) robot (6) having a driven rotational axis. The robot (6), on its last member (12), carries a rotational device (7) with a rotational tool (8). The rotational device is driven independently and is provided and designed for rapidly screwing a rotating part (3) on or off. The screwing tightening or untightening of the rotating part (3) is performed by the robot (6) and in particular by the robot end member (12).
US09174335B1
A device and method for making a tool for use in housekeeping or gardening is disclosed. The tool includes a handle and an end effector that are joined together using an end fitting attached to the end of the handle and a coupler attached to the end effector, such as a mop, brush, broom and the like. The end fitting and the coupler are fitted together and pinned using a clip to prevent rotation of one respect to the other. The end fitting and coupler may be fitted together with a threaded connection in addition to the clip and the end effector may be threaded and glued to the end effector. The end fitting may be received in the end fitting and secured with fasteners or be made integral to the end fitting.
US09174331B1
Gear pumps use various types of bushings or bearings (sleeves) between a shaft and the housing of the pump. From time to time, these sleeves wear out and have to be replaced. This extractor removes the sleeves and includes three main components—a collet or sleeve engaging member, a mounting bracket, and a lift screw. The extractor may also include other components within the scope of the invention, including melting screws and washers.
US09174330B2
A brake cylinder adjustment assembly for adjusting brake cylinders of different sizes and includes a rotation unit and a driving unit which is connected with the rotation unit. The rotation unit includes a rotatable disk, a fixed disk, at least two positioning rods and a clip. The rotatable disk has at least two curved slots and the fixed disk has at least two slide slots. The at least two positioning rods are engaged with the at least two slide slots and the at least two curved slots. The brake cylinder adjustment assembly uses a single driving unit and single rotation unit to adjust the left and right brake cylinders of different sizes.
US09174316B2
A workpiece is fixed by a retracting mechanical chuck mounted on a spindle head of a five-axis control machining center. The apparent outer diameter of the workpiece is increased by a jig. Clamp surfaces of the jaws and a support surface of the jig are formed on the machining center. A cutting tool is mounted on a spindle by an automatic tool exchanger. The workpiece is rotated about an axis to grind an end surface of the workpiece to approximately a predetermined target shape, which is a spherical surface. A grinder is then mounted on the spindle by the automatic tool exchanger, and the grinder is set relative to the workpiece by five-axis control such that the inclination angle, the offset amount, etc. satisfy a predetermined relationship according to the desired grinding. The grinder is then fed in the Z-axis direction to form the spherical surface by grinding.
US09174312B2
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a method for repairing a damaged metallic component using additive manufacturing techniques includes separating a damaged portion of the damaged metallic component from an undamaged portion of the damaged metallic component, measuring the undamaged portion to determine the dimensions of the removed damaged portion, fabricating a replacement portion using additive manufacturing techniques in accordance with the determined dimensions of the removed damaged portion, and joining the replacement portion with the undamaged portion of the damaged metallic component to form a repaired metallic component.
US09174310B2
The invention described herein pertains generally to boric acid free flux composition wherein in some embodiments, a phthalocyanine pigment is used to effect a color change at activation temperature.
US09174303B2
A method of bonding two members including an aluminum alloy material as one member, and an aluminum alloy material or a pure aluminum material as the other member, the method being characterized in: that the aluminum alloy material for the one member and the aluminum alloy material for the other member are composed of an aluminum alloy containing Mg of not more than 0.5 mass %; and that a bonding process is carried out in a furnace having a non-oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature, at which a ratio of a mass of liquid phases generated in the aluminum alloy material defined as the one member to the total mass of the aluminum alloy material falls within a range from 5% to 35%, on the condition that there is either a coated fluoride-based flux or a coated chloride-based flux between both of the members to be bonded.
US09174302B2
Friction Stir Welding (FSW) devices and methods for simultaneously welding both sides of an arcuate joint are described. The FSW method includes the step of operating a FSW tool and an anvil on the exterior surface of the joint and simultaneously operating another FSW tool and anvil on the interior surface of the joint. The anvils are positioned in a juxtaposing manner to the FSW tools, and move in tandem with the FSW tools, thus providing a supporting force to the FSW tools during their operation.
US09174301B2
A method for forming a joint between a tube and a sheet includes forming an anvil at least within the tube, and welding the tube to the sheet in the presence of the anvil. The anvil includes an anchor which is placed within the tube near or at the joint to be formed. At least one washer is placed over the end of the anchor that is near the joint to be formed. A threaded fastener is then placed into the anchor to securely hold the anchor within the tube and to provide a backing substantial enough so that a friction stir weld can be formed. The threaded fastener and the washer can be used as a guide for the friction stir weld. Once the weld is completed, the anvil can be removed. The weld can be further processed to remove burrs and other material.
US09174293B2
A hardfacing process includes depositing a clad layer having a thickness greater than about 1 mm (0.04 in) on a surface of the component by arc welding, and creating a heat affected zone directly below the clad layer due to the depositing. The heat affected zone may be a region of the component where a lowest hardness is more than 40% lower than a base hardness of the component below the heat affected zone. The method may also include heat treating the component after the deposition such that the lowest hardness in the heat affected zone is restored to within about 15% of the base hardness of the component.
US09174284B2
A texturizing tool that creates concentric, circular patterns of burrs in the surface of a workpiece by graving, planning or plowing, curved stop-grooves each with a burr of the displaced material which remains securely attached to the workpiece. Toothed cylindrical saws having angled slots for a drive pin are concentrically assembled. When forced against the workpiece, each saw rotates some few degrees causing the teeth to cut the stop-grooves and making the burrs. The drive pin and a return spring are carried in a capped outer cylindrical actuator which the drive pin also passes through. The concentric saw's cutting teeth cut in opposite directions to cancel out the cutting forces on the workpiece. Articles so texturized may be used in structural adhesive bonding, and for embedment of texturized articles such as fasteners, washers, plates and the like, into molded plastic and composite structures while being molded.
US09174278B2
The cross-sectional shape of a main part except for both end portions is generally divided into a lower arc surface extending along a base circle and an upper arc surface of which a top portion corresponds to the base circle. Side edge portions extending inward from the base circle are formed on both side surfaces of the upper arc surface. Curved edge portions which concavely curves upward from the side edge portions to end surfaces and continues to the end surfaces and chamfer portions extending from the end surfaces to the side surfaces which planes the edges and curves so that width thereof gradually narrows, are formed on both ends in a longitudinal direction.
US09174273B2
A method of and an apparatus for controlling a molten metal surface in a mold that are effective to various disturbances are provided. The method and the apparatus for controlling a molten metal surface level in a mold according to the present invention perform the following operations of: measuring the molten metal surface level in the mold of a continuous-casting machine; changing a reference position of oscillation of the mold based on the difference between a molten metal surface setting value set in advance as a desired value of the molten metal surface and a measured value of the molten metal surface level; and making the reference position of oscillation follow molten metal surface fluctuations.
US09174272B2
There is provided a strip casting method using a twin roll strip casting process in which molten steel is supplied through an injection nozzle to a region between twin rolls rotating in opposite directions to produce a strip having a predetermined thickness and a high degree of edge quality. The twin roll strip casting method includes: performing the casting process by setting a casting thickness to have a minimal value during an early stage of the casting process in which edge bulging occurs; and performing the casting process by increasing the casting thickness to a maximum value after the molten steel reaches a pre-set target temperature as the casting process proceeds.
US09174266B2
A bending support having a planar bracing member with a length (L) that is substantially equal to that of the inner diameter (I.D.) of the manifold header that the bending support is ultimately inserted in. Extending perpendicularly from a surface of the bracing member is a pair of bracketing members. The pair of bracketing member and the portion of the planar bracing member therebetween defines a refrigerant conduit clip. The interior surface of the refrigerant conduit clip includes a skived pattern defining a plurality of teeth or protrusions that aids in the attachment of the refrigerant conduit clip onto an internal refrigerant conduit. An aperture located on the planar bracing member between the pair of bracketing member provides an unobstructed path for refrigerant flow to the refrigerant conduit.
US09174261B2
A press working apparatus for processing a heated workpiece is provided with a base part which is relatively movable so as to advance and retreat with respect to the workpiece, a pad provided on the base part and configured to hold the workpiece, a working tool provided on the base part to pass through the pad and adapted to process the workpiece, and a support member configured to movably support the working tool in a direction perpendicular to an advance and retreat direction of the base part.
US09174252B2
A device for clearing pipe blockage includes: pumping means (A) for compressing air by pumping and having an outlet (18) for discharging compressed air out; and an inflatable balloon mounted at the outlet and expanding by air discharged through the outlet. The outlet is a one-way valve, and a cylindrical guide member (24) is formed to surround the outside of the inflatable balloon, guides the inflatable balloon to move forward inside a pipe when a front end part of the guide member is inserted into the pipe, and is made of flexible material. A presser which cleans the inner surface of the pipe while moving in a state where it gets in contact with the inner surface of the pipe is mounted at a front end of the inflatable balloon, and the blocked pipe is cleared by shock pressure by movement of the pumping unit and a change in pressure by expansion of the inflatable balloon by the compressed air.
US09174248B2
The device for cleaning at least one medical hearing unit includes an earpiece, and a space for receiving the earpiece, the space having at least one seat receiving the earpiece and an orifice with a cavity underneath. There is a circulator for a liquid within the space to contact the earpiece. The cavity includes an outlet for flow or aspiration of liquid, an opening opposite, and, below each orifice, a directing device to guide the liquid towards and under each orifice, as far as the outlet, in such a way that liquid flows across the earpiece.
US09174247B2
The present invention relates to a cleaning implement comprising elastic compressed foam and to a method of cleaning a hard surface with said cleaning implement.
US09174246B2
A sorting plant and a sorting method sort objects according to a predefined sort criterion. The sorting plant has a plurality of transfer sites, a plurality of upper pick-up units which can be swiveled into a pick-up position and into a park position, and a plurality of lower pick-up units. The upper pick-up units are arranged in such a manner that the upper pick-up units are located between the transfer sites and the lower pick-up units when the upper pick-up units are swiveled into the park position. For each object to be sorted, one pick-up unit is automatically selected regardless of the sorting criterion value of the object. The object is first moved to a transfer site and then into or onto the selected pick-up unit.
US09174238B2
A particle has a permanent dipole moment, a film includes the particle, and a method of forming the film includes aligning the particle on a surface. The particle has a permanent dipole moment and includes heterogeneous materials, wherein a positive pole is located in a first material and a negative pole is located in a second material different from the first material. The method includes aligning a particle such that the particle has one dipole moment direction. The film includes the aligned particles.
US09174235B2
A substrate treating apparatus includes a treating block including a plurality of cells arranged one over another. Each cell has treating units for treating substrates and a single main transport mechanism disposed in a transporting space for transporting the substrates to the treating units. The treating units include solution treating units and heat-treating units. The solution treating units are arranged at one side of the transporting space, the heat-treating units are arranged at the other side of the transporting space, and the main transport mechanism and the treating units are in substantially the same layout in plan view for the respective cells. The solution treating units are in substantially the same layout in side view for the respective cells, the heat-treating units are in substantially the same layout in side view for the respective cells, and treatments of the substrates carried out in the respective cells are the same.
US09174234B2
A system and method for applying a two-part adhesive to a substrate includes a prime mover for providing an output torque, a first pump connected to the prime mover for receiving the output torque, the first pump having an inlet and an outlet, a second pump connected to the prime mover for receiving the output torque, the second pump having an inlet and an outlet, a first compound in communication with the inlet of the first pump, a second compound in communication with the inlet of the second pump, a first accumulator in communication with the outlet of the first pump, a second accumulator in communication with the outlet of the second pump, a first manifold in communication with the outlet of the first pump, and a second manifold in communication with the outlet of the second pump.
US09174233B2
A paint filling apparatus has a plurality of header portions, and one common manifold portion that is capable of supplying a cleaning liquid to each header portion. One side of each header portion is attachable to and detachable from a paint cartridge, and another side of each header portion is attachable to and detachable from the common manifold portion. Each header portion has a paint supply channel for filling a paint into the paint cartridge. The paint supply channel of each header portion is constructed of a piping member and a paint channel. An end portion of each header portion is linkable in communication with the inside of the paint cartridge, and another end portion thereof is linked in communication with a corresponding one of paint tanks that are provided separately for each of the paint colors. An intermediate portion of each paint supply channel is provided with a paint valve that controls the open-closed state of the upstream side of the paint supply channel.
US09174225B2
This filter is used to purify air by removing foreign matters such as liquid droplets contained in the air. A separation unit (23) is formed with a port block (13) and a separation cylinder (20), and the port block is formed with a primary port (11) and a secondary port (12). From the secondary port (12), the air purified by removing the foreign matters in a separation chamber (25) of the separation unit (23) is flowed out. A discharge pipe (37) for guiding the purified air to the secondary port (12) is disposed in a center portion of a swirl flow generating chamber (24). The foreign matters discharged from the discharging port (31) are collected in a collection container (27). In the collection container (27), a baffle plate 51 having a liquid guiding surface (50) is provided. A fin (52) is provided in an outer peripheral portion of the baffle plate (51), and the liquid guiding surface (50) positioned at a center portion of the baffle plate (51) is flat.
US09174220B2
A grinder/dryer having a plurality of beater blades carried on a rotating shaft in a cylindrical housing, including one or a plurality of grinding members on the cylindrical side wall. The grinding members are adjustably positioned at different locations within the cylinder. The grinding members may be provided in a variety of different combination of elevated ridges and/or valleys used to dry and classify materials.
US09174215B2
The present invention relates to phaseguide patterns for use in fluid systems such as channels, chambers, and flow through cells. In order to effectively control filling and/or emptying of fluidic chambers and channels, techniques for a controlled overflowing of phaseguides are proposed. In addition, techniques of confined liquid patterning in a larger fluidic structure, including approaches for patterning overflow structures and the specific shape of phaseguides, are provided. The invention also proposes techniques to effectively rotate the advancement of a liquid/air meniscus over a certain angle. In particular, a phaseguide pattern for guiding a flow of a liquid contained within a compartment is provided, wherein an overflow of the phaseguide by a moving liquid phase is controlled by a local change in capillary force along the phaseguide, wherein said overflow by the liquid over the phaseguide is provoked at the position of the local change in capillary force.
US09174204B2
The invention relates to a novel catalyst based on zeolite, the production of that catalyst, and the use of the catalyst in a method for producing lower olefins from oxygenates and for oligomerizing olefins. The novel catalyst has a SiO2/Al2O3 weight ratio of 2 to 9, a BET surface of 250 to 500 m2/g, and an Na content under 200 ppm. The catalyst includes a crystalline alumosilicate zeolite and a binder. The catalyst is characterized in that the ratio of the peak heights of its IR absorption bands v=3610 cm−1±20 cm−1/v=3680 cm−1±20 cm−1 is greater than 1.8.
US09174202B2
A catalyst usable in hydrotreatment processes: an alumina-based amorphous support, phosphorus, a C1-C4 dialkyl succinate, acetic acid and a hydro-dehydrogenizing function of at least one group VIII element and at least one group VIB element, preferably made up of cobalt and molybdenum, a catalyst whose Raman spectrum comprises the most intense bands characteristic of the Keggin heteropolyanions (974 and/or 990 cm−1), C1-C4 dialkyl succinate and acetic acid (896 cm−1). Preferably, the dialkyl succinate concerned is dimethyl succinate and its main band is at 853 cm−1.
US09174198B2
An exhaust gas purification catalytic material for purifying exhaust gas from an engine includes ZrLaY composite oxide containing ZrO2 as a main component, 2% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less of La2O3, and 2% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less of Y2O3, and Rh is loaded on the composite oxide.
US09174193B2
Tubular reactor for use in polymerization reactions having a design pressure PR of 40-65 barg. The reactor includes a tube with a wall, and at least a portion of the tube is oriented vertically, with at least part of the vertical portion being surrounded by a concentric jacket for the passage of cooling fluid. The design pressure in barg of the jacket PJ is less than 0.0018·PR2.25.
US09174178B2
A mixing assembly for use in a semi-continuous process for producing liquid personal care compositions, such as shampoos, includes a main feed tube carrying a base of the composition to be produced, a plurality of injection tubes in selective fluid communication with the main feed tube, and an orifice provided in a wall at an end of the main feed tube downstream of the plurality of injection tubes. The wall in which the orifice is provided includes a curved (e.g., semispherical) entry surface on an upstream or inlet side of an orifice, and a curved (e.g., semi-elliptical) exit surface on a downstream or outlet side of the orifice. The orifice may have a rectangular or elliptical shape. By maintaining symmetry of the injection tubes with respect to the orifice, and leveraging delay between introduction of dosed modules and increased viscosity, effective mixing may be achieved with minimal energy.
US09174174B2
A separation membrane including a separation-functional layer is provided, wherein the separation-functional layer contains a polyvinylidene fluoride-type resin having a melt viscosity of 3,300 Pa·s or more, and also the separation-functional layer has a three-dimensional network structure. A separation membrane is provided having high virus removal performance, high pure water permeability, and high physical durability and high chemical strength, which can also be used in the field of water treatment.
US09174172B2
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.
US09174154B1
A reusable retainer assembly for retaining a filter in an air handler includes a clip that may couple a filter to an air handler. An engaging portion of the clip may engage the air handler so the clip is retained on the air handler. A retaining portion of the clip may engage the filter so the clip retains the filter on the air handler.
US09174146B2
A separation system including a horizontal separation vessel having a gas separation chamber defined by an upper wall of the separation vessel, a gas dome extending above the upper wall, a baffle plate disposed within the separation vessel, and a level of a lower surface of the baffle plate. The lower surface of the baffle plate is disposed below a level of an upper surface of a liquid weir disposed within the separation vessel. The upper surface of the liquid weir may set a liquid level within the separation vessel. The gas separation chamber may include a hydrostatic pressure seal zone between the level of the upper surface of the liquid weir and the level of the lower surface of the baffle plate. Liquid within the hydrostatic pressure seal zone may prevent a gas disposed within the gas separation chamber from escaping into a remainder of the separation vessel.
US09174141B2
A self-sealing balloon comprising a tubular balloon neck segment extending from an opening of a balloon gas retaining expansion cavity. A bead of adhesive material is applied in a loop about an interior circumference of a neck portion of the balloon forming a dispensed adhesive roll. The dispensed adhesive roll is at least partially encapsulated within an adhesive staging segment. The adhesive staging segment is shaped into a loop by at least one roller. The roller extends the balloon neck material and pulls the ring downward, drawing the ring into the adhesive staging segment. The ring aids in forming the loop. In use, the balloon would be inflated. The neck would be stretched, exposing the adhesive ring. The ring would be compressed forming a seal, entrapping pressurized air within the balloon gas retaining expansion cavity. This provides a low cost, simple self-sealing solution for a balloon.
US09174137B2
Pet head kits and methods of making and using the same are disclosed.
US09174136B2
A swing spring comprises a first plate or top, a second plate or bottom, guide rods extending between and connected to the first plate and the second plate, a third slider or slider plate slidable along an axis along the guide rods between the first plate and the second plate, a compression spring captured between the third plate and the second plate, a first hook rotatably coupled to the first plate by a thrust bearing and extending in a first direction along the axis, and a second hook coupled to the third plate and extending in a second direction opposite the first direction through the second plate.
US09174123B2
Systems and methods for human hand gesture recognition through a training mode and a recognition mode are disclosed. In the training mode, a user can move a handheld device with a hand gesture intended to represent a command. Sensors within the handheld device can record raw data, which can be processed to obtain a set of values corresponding to a set of discrete features, which is stored in a database and associated with the intended command. The process is repeated for various hand gestures representing different commands. In the recognition mode, the user can move the handheld device with a hand gesture. A computer system can compare a set of values corresponding to a set of discrete features derived from the hand gesture with the sets of values stored in the database, select a command with the closest match and displays and/or executes the command.
US09174122B2
A technique which easily removes the motion element of the game controller which is attributed to the vibrating motion of a vibrator from the output data of an acceleration sensor or reduces the element can be achieved by the present invention. In a game controller, an acceleration sensor detects the movement of the game controller. LPF is installed at the output of the acceleration sensor. Vibrators are installed inside of a housing. The cutoff frequency of LPF is set lower than the peak value of the natural frequency of the game controller. The cutoff frequency of LPF may be set to two thirds or less of the peak value of the natural frequency of the game controller.
US09174121B2
A video game controller charging system is provided. The video game controller charging system includes a base; at least one structure on the base for providing physical support to at least one video game controller while it is being charged; and at least one DC port on the base configured to couple to and provide DC power to a power input port of the at least one video game controller. The video game controller charging system may also include a current detector, a charging status indicator, at least one docking bay, and/or an AC-to-DC converter adapted to convert externally supplied power to the DC power provided to the power input port of at least one video game controller. The base of a charging station may include a recess having at least one electrical contact and a power input for connection to a power supply.
US09174120B2
An apparatus and method for a secondary game of a wagering gaming system, and particularly the increase of an award in the secondary game by the value of different multipliers associated with different amounts wagered in a primary game. A secondary game provides a total award to a player based on the multiplier associated with the wagered amount in the primary game by applying the multiplier to the amount of the award earned by the player in the secondary game. A particular wagerable amount may be associated with a multiplier that is predetermined, or randomly selected from a group of predefined multipliers, or selected from a group based on a probability. The range of possible combinations of wagerable amounts and multipliers are displayed to the player in the base game to provide an incentive to maximize the wager.
US09174118B1
Script injection in game clients used to access an online, interactive game may be detected. This detection may be performed on behalf of the entity operating the game in order to reduce cheating by users that relies on client modification through script injection. Detection of script injection may be performed on a recurring basis.
US09174111B2
An appendage protector for an article of protective gear is provided. The protector includes an upper arm protector portion, a lower arm protector portion, and a protective arm hinge overlying a gap between the upper and lower arm protector portions. The arm hinge includes a forward-facing floater pad, a medial extension, and a lateral extension. The medial and lateral extensions are slidably coupled to at least one of the upper and lower arm protector portions to guide forward movement of the floater pad during rotation of the lower arm protector portion toward the upper arm protector portion, and to guide rearward movement of the floater pad during rotation of the lower arm protector portion away from the upper arm protector portion. The arm protector can form part of a goaltender chest protector to provide an integrated system allowing fluid movement of the wearer's arm with enhanced protection to the elbow region.
US09174105B2
An insertion tool having a hub and a mandrel extending from the hub and including a tip that is configured to be inserted into a teeing ground to create a depression for insertion of a golf tee, wherein the mandrel is configured to receive a golf tee. The insertion tool may also have a second mandrel that is also configured to be inserted into the teeing ground to create a depression for insertion of a golf tee. The insertion tool may also include a further golf tool coupled to the hub.
US09174103B2
A golf club head optimized for sound has a body that defines an interior cavity. The body includes at least one of a sole portion, skirt portion, or a crown portion. At least the sole portion is stiffened to provide a higher frequency sound. The stiffened sole portion increases the frequency range of the golf club head by at least 300 Hz with an overall frequency of greater than about 3000 Hz. The stiffened sole portion provides a higher frequency sound with a minimal increase in the overall weight of the golf club head. In one embodiment, the stiffened sole portion increases the weight of the golf club head by less than 10 grams with the overall weight of the golf club head less than 220 grams. In operation, the golf club head with at least the stiffened sole portion impacts the golf ball to provide an aesthetically pleasing sound.
US09174095B2
Apparatus and methods for using a plurality of golf balls to train a person to swing a golf club are described. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the apparatus includes a ramp, a golf ball holder and a trigger, which may be mechanical or electrical. The ramp conveys the plurality of golf balls, one at a time, from a first end of the ramp to a second end of the ramp. At least a portion of the ramp is angled downward from the first end to the second end. The holder contains the plurality of golf balls. It is arranged near the first end of the ramp to release one of the plurality of golf balls at a time onto the ramp. The holder further has an input. The trigger is connected to the input of the holder and arranged so that it can sense the golf swing, wherein when the trigger senses the golf swing, it triggers the input of the holder to cause the holder to release one of the plurality of golf balls into the ramp.
US09174094B2
A hollow golf ball center defined by an intermediate layer including a thermoplastic ionomer resin neutralized at least about 40% with a metal cation is filled with an alcohol having up to three carbon atoms or an aqueous alcohol solution to create a hardness gradient in the intermediate layer. The alcohol or aqueous alcohol solution may be left in the center, removed from the center leaving the center hollow, or replaced by another material.
US09174092B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball having a low spin rate on driver shots. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising a spherical core and at least one cover layer covering the spherical core, wherein the spherical core is formed from a rubber composition containing (a) base rubber, (b) an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and/or a metal salt thereof as a co-crosslinking agent, (c) a crosslinking initiator and (d) a carboxylic acid having a benzene ring and/or a salt thereof, provided that the rubber composition further contains (e) a metal compound in case of containing only (b) the α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms as the co-crosslinking agent.
US09174091B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball intermediate layer resin composition with an excellent resilience and fluidity. Another object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball intermediate layer resin composition with a high hardness and durability. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball traveling a great distance with an ionomer intermediate layer. The present invention provides a golf ball intermediate layer resin composition comprising, (A) an ionomer resin consisting of a metal ion-neutralized product of a binary copolymer composed of an olefin and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms; (B) a binary copolymer composed of an olefin and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms, and (C) a zinc compound, wherein a content ratio ((A)/(B)) of (A) component to (B) component ranges from 50/50 to 80/20 in a mass ratio and a content of (C) component ranges from 0.1 part to 20 parts with respect to 100 parts by mass of a sum of (A) component and (B) component, and the golf ball intermediate layer resin composition has a melt flow rate (190° C., 2.16 kg) of 15 g/10 min or more.
US09174090B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball cover resin composition containing an ionomer resin with an excellent resilience and fluidity. Another object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball using an ionomer resin for a cover, with an excellent shot feeling, durability and resilience. The present invention provides a golf ball cover resin composition comprising (A) an ionomer resin consisting of a metal ion-neutralized product of a ternary copolymer composed of an olefin, an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid ester; (B) a binary copolymer composed of an olefin and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and/or a ternary copolymer composed of an olefin, an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid ester, and (C) a zinc compound, wherein a content ratio ((A)/(B)) of (A) component to (B) component ranges from 50/50 to 80/20 in a mass ratio and a content of (C) component ranges from 0.1 part to 20 parts with respect to 100 parts by mass of a sum of (A) component and (B) component, and the golf ball cover resin composition has a melt flow rate (190° C., 2.16 kg) of 5 g/10 min or more.
US09174085B2
A method for providing cycling classes to remote users comprising providing information about available cycling classes that can be accessed via a digital communication network by a user at a remote location for display at the remote location, receiving from the user a selection of one of the available cycling classes for display at the remote location, and sending digital video and audio content comprising the selected cycling class from a server to a computer associated with a stationary bike at the remote location for display to the user on a display screen associated with the stationary bike. In various exemplary embodiments, the digital and audio content sent to the computer associated with the stationary bike is streamed for display to the user in substantially in real-time. In various exemplary embodiments, the digital and audio content sent to the computer associated with the stationary bike is archived content provided from a database.
US09174070B2
Oral care compositions comprising a crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone complexed with hydrogen peroxide, together with an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block copolymer. Some embodiments further comprise a calcium abrasive, e.g. calcium pyrophosphate or calcium carbonate, and some may have less than 3% water.
US09174066B2
A non-invasive electrical stimulation device shapes an elongated electric field of effect that can be oriented parallel to a long nerve, such as a vagus nerve in a patient's neck, producing a desired physiological response in the patient. The stimulator comprises a source of electrical power, at least one electrode and a continuous electrically conducting medium in which the electrode(s) are in contact. The stimulation device is configured to produce a peak pulse voltage that is sufficient to produce a physiologically effective electric field in the vicinity of a target nerve, but not to substantially stimulate other nerves and muscles that lie between the vicinity of the target nerve and patient's skin. Current is passed through the electrodes in bursts of preferably five sinusoidal pulses, wherein each pulse within a burst has a duration of preferably 200 microseconds, and bursts repeat at preferably at 15-50 bursts per second.
US09174065B2
In some examples, nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some examples, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some examples, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents or the agents are enhanced by the energy sources.
US09174060B2
Embodiments relate to an implantable cardiac system and methods, including a housing, electronic circuitry for controlling one or more of power management, processing unit, information memory and management circuit, sensing and simulation output and how these operate. The system also includes diagnosis and treatment software for diagnosing health issues, diagnosing mechanical issues, determining therapy output and manage patient health indicators over time, a power supply system including at least one rechargeable battery, a recharging system, an alarm (or alert) system to inform patient of energy level and integrity of system, communication circuitry, one or more electrodes for delivering therapeutic signal to a heart and one or more electrodes for from delivering electrocardiogram signal from the heart to the electronic circuitry, and body orientation determination, in various aspects.
US09174057B1
A device for detecting cardiac ischemia is disclosed. The device includes a processor that is configured to distinguish between two different heart beats types such as ventricularly paced beats and supraventricular beats. The processor collects separate reference data for a first one of the beat types indicative of the normal values of a cardiac feature. The processor performs an ischemia test to beats of the first type by first checking whether valid reference data exists for that beat type. If so, the ischemia test is based on this reference data. If no valid reference data exists for the firs beat type, the processor applies an ischemia test that is not based on reference data for the first beat type.
US09174049B2
Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for modulating cranial nerves, such as the sphenopalatine ganglion, to treat a medical condition of a patient, such as cluster headache. A stimulation device is advanced transnasally to a target site at or adjacent to the nasopharyngeal mucosa posterior to the middle turbinate. Electrical impulses are applied through one or more electrodes in the stimulation device to the target nerve sufficient to modulate the nerve and treat the medical condition.
US09174044B2
Systems and methods for modulating a physiological process are provided to enable precise delivery of signals to a predetermined treatment site. The systems may comprise an implantable device and an electrical lead body. The electrical lead body may comprise a plurality of transducer contacts in close proximity to an end of the electrical lead body, and a control unit positioned within the lead body in close proximity to the plurality of transducer contacts.
US09174043B2
According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a wound dressing system is presented. The wound dressing system includes a fluid permeable support layer, the support layer configured for positioning within a wound and adapted to generally conform to a topography of the wound, and to permit exudates from the wound to pass therethrough. The wound dressing system further includes a plurality of beads supported by the support layer, the beads defining an insulated inter-connected elongate member and an electrode embedded within and extending through at least a portion of the elongate member. Also, a current is generated by an external energy source that electrically flows through the electrode.
US09174040B2
At least one of a plurality of gastrointestinal disorders is treated by stimulating an enteric nervous system of a patient to enhance a functional tone of the enteric nervous system. A treatment includes electrically stimulating a vagus nerve of the patient at a stimulation site proximal to at least one site of vagal innervation of a gastrointestinal organ. The electrical stimulation includes applying a stimulation signal at the stimulation site. An optional proximal electrical blocking signal is applied to the vagus nerve at a proximal blocking site proximal to the stimulation site. The proximal blocking signal is selected to at least partially block nerve impulses at the proximal blocking site.
US09174034B2
A wound treatment device includes a seal of variable size for attaching the device to various locations on a patient for treatment of wounds or lesions. The seal has a plurality of weakened areas which allow portions of the seal to be removed for increasing the size of the seal opening to accommodate wounds or lesions of different size.
US09174024B1
A steering handle for a catheter. The steering handle includes a thumb knob arrangement for driving a cam assembly that in turn actuates a pull wire or pull wires. In some embodiments, the cam assembly includes a set of dual pins that actuate the pull wire in a quasi-linear relationship between cam rotation and axial displacement of the wire. In certain embodiments, the second set of dual pins imparts a reverse action on a second pull wire, also in quasi-linear fashion. That is, when one wire is released by the cam assembly, the other wire is taken in by the cam assembly. In various embodiments, the quasi-linear action can cause release of more pull wire than is taken in, thereby helping prevent the released pull wire to act as an unwanted counter force to the actuated pull wire.
US09174021B2
A drug eluting catheter includes an active agent, such as a drug or chemical substance, which is integrated with the catheter and allows variable dosing of the agent for elution to the patient's body. The catheter includes a dosing region and graduated markings or is associated with a measurement device that includes graduated markings that correspond to a range of dose of the active agent associated with the catheter. By removing or masking an undesired dosing region prior to administration, a user may vary the dosage to suit a patient's needs.
US09174020B2
A catheter assembly may be provided with a catheter body and an inflatable balloon. The catheter body has a proximal end, a distal end and a balloon inflation lumen. The inflatable balloon is attachable to the distal end of the catheter body. The balloon has an inner surface that at least partially defines an interior volume. The balloon is configured such that the interior volume can be in fluid communication with the inflation lumen of the catheter body to inflate the balloon. The balloon also has a proximal surface and a distal surface. The balloon is provided with a channel that extends through the balloon. The channel is configured to provide fluid communication between the proximal surface of the balloon and the distal surface of the balloon. Other catheter assemblies and methods of use are also disclosed.
US09174007B2
Medical device assemblies capable of aspirating liquid into a syringe barrel or other medical devices while evacuating any air from the syringe are described. An exemplary medical device includes a syringe barrel, plunger rod and stopper assembly having an air permeable and liquid impermeable porous portion and structure for forming a vacuum within either the stopper or the plunger rod. Described is a medical device including a syringe barrel, plunger rod and stopper assembly having an air permeable and liquid impermeable porous portion and structure for forming a vacuum within chamber between the stopper and plunger rod wherein the plunger rod includes a sealing edge and is moveable relative to the stopper. Exemplary medical devices may include a vent for allowing air that permeates through the porous portion to escape to atmosphere. Methods for aspirating a syringe barrel with a liquid are also provided.
US09174006B2
A dermal access device for fluid injection comprising a bearing block for fixation of the device onto a patient's skin, a slider movably connected to the bearing block and a hollow needle arranged at the slider for puncturing the skin, wherein the needle creates a puncture angle with respect to the skin surface when puncturing the skin, which does not exceed 25°. A dermal access device for fluid injection comprising a bearing block for fixation of the device onto a patient's skin, a movable slider connected to the bearing block and a hollow needle arranged at the slider for puncturing the skin, wherein the device comprises a first stop for limiting a first moving direction of the slider at a first puncture position of the needle, where the device comprises a second stop at a second puncture position of the needle for limiting the second moving direction of the slider.
US09174001B2
A device and method for dispensing a liquid with a gas includes an instrument having a cannula and a low-pressure tip. The low-pressure tip includes a tip housing that at least partially defines a high pressure chamber. A distal wall of the tip housing includes an aperture in fluid communication with the high pressure chamber. The low-pressure tip also includes a tube and a gas flow channel. The tube fluidly communicates liquid at a relatively low pressure from the cannula through the first aperture. The gas flow channel fluidly communicates gas from the cannula at a relatively high pressure and to the high pressure chamber for discharge from the aperture. The tube and aperture are adapted to dispense the liquid and the gas in order to create a low pressure zone distal of the tube to dispense droplets of the liquid.
US09173995B1
A syringe includes a barrel having a proximal end, a distal end, and a sidewall extending between the proximal end and the distal end along a longitudinal axis. At least one syringe retaining member protrudes radially outwardly relative to an outer surface of the sidewall. The at least one syringe retaining member tapers axially in a direction from the distal end toward the proximal end. The at least one syringe retaining member is configured for selective engagement with a locking mechanism on a fluid injector to releasably lock the syringe with the fluid injector. A taper of the at least one syringe retaining member is configured to rotationally guide the syringe into alignment with the locking mechanism.
US09173987B2
A degassing module for removal of air and other gases during operation of a medical therapy device that delivers any one of hemodialysis, hemodiafiltration and hemofiltration. The degassing module has a flow-through first chamber that has a hydrophobic vent membrane that has an exterior and interior side forming a portion of the flow-through chamber. The hydrophobic vent membrane is positioned at a higher elevation on the flow-through chamber than a fluid outlet. Fluid flows through the flow-through chamber in a downward direction relative to the hydrophobic vent membrane. A flow-through chamber has a cross sectional area configured to provide for a downward flow velocity of the fluid to be less than the upward rise velocity of a smallest bubble to be removed from the fluid.
US09173985B2
A total artificial heart having a rotor with an impeller, wherein the rotor is mounted within a pump housing on a hollow shaft. The rotor is magnetically driven to produce rotary motion of the impeller for pumping blood. The motor is disposed within the pump housing such that axial translation within the housing acts as a shuttle valve to alternate flow between pulmonary and systemic circulation.
US09173977B2
The present invention is related to scoring or cutting balloon catheters carrying at least on a portion of their surface at least one drug or drug preparation and at least one lipophilic antioxidant at a ratio of 3-100% by weight of the at least one lipophilic antioxidant in relation to 100% by weight of the drug, wherein a combination of the at least one drug being a limus drug and the at least one lipophilic antioxidant being butylated hydroxytoluene is excluded.
US09173972B2
The present invention provides methods and compositions that use the combination of Tris and EDTA to inhibit the growth of microorganisms at the site of a wound or burn, and/or to promote the healing of a wound or burn, and/or to reduce the sensation of pain at the site of a wound or burn. The amount of Tris and EDTA applied to a wound or burn can be selected to achieve one or more of the foregoing effects.
US09173958B2
Compositions and methods are provided in embodiments directed to maintaining a desired concentration range of one or more drugs in a subject, and in particular embodiments to maintaining a desired drug concentration in a body compartment in a subject, based on the surprising discovery that antibodies persist in solution in body compartments such that antibody-antigen equilibrium principles can counteract drug clearance mechanisms. One or more antibodies are selected that have a dissociation constant KD that is similar to the desired drug concentration, wherein KD is independent of the affinity of the drug for a specific drug target (receptor) in the subject.
US09173957B2
The invention provides FGFR fusion proteins, methods of making them, and methods of using them to treat proliferative disorders, including cancers and disorders of angiogenesis. The FGFR fusion molecules can be made in CHO cells and may comprise deletion mutations in the extracellular domains of the FGFRs which improve their stability. These fusion proteins inhibit the growth and viability of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The combination of the relatively high affinity of these receptors for their ligand FGFs and the demonstrated ability of these decoy receptors to inhibit tumor growth is an indication of the clinical value of the compositions and methods provided herein.
US09173954B2
E. coli proteins have been identified that are useful as carrier proteins to improve a response to a polysaccharide immunogen conjugated to such protein. In particular, AcfD precursor protein (orf3526 polypeptide), Flu antigen 43 protein (orf1364 polypeptide), and Sel1 repeat-containing protein (upec-5211 polypeptide) have been shown to be effective. Additionally, these E. coli proteins can enhance the immune response to glucans, particularly fungal glucans.
US09173934B2
The present invention relates to the field of IgE-mediated allergy, particularly occupational asthma such as bakers asthma. More specifically the invention relates to the identification of a novel wheat allergen and the use thereof in therapy and diagnosis of IgE-mediated allergy. Furthermore the present invention provides the use of known peptides and proteins in therapy and diagnosis. The invention also relates to methods for diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated allergy in mammals.
US09173926B2
A method for the augmentation of immune function is described. The invention comprises a combination of β-1,3 (4)-endoglucanohydrolase, β-1,3 (4)-glucan, diatomaceous earth, mineral clay and glucomannan, which is fed to or consumed by mammalian or avian species in amounts sufficient to augment immune function. The invention described may be admixed with feeds or foods, incorporated into pelleted feeds or foods or administered orally to mammalian and avian species.
US09173916B2
Muscadine grape extracts are disclosed that have antioxidant properties. The extracts are a mixture of extracts from bronze and purple muscadine grapes that unexpectedly increase the solubility of ellagic acid in the mixture. Solvent extracts are obtained in some examples by water extracting the pomaces of the grapes from which the juice has substantially been removed. Further surprising increases in ellagic acid solubility can also be obtained by adding an additional source of anthocyanins to the extract, for example by including in the composition an extract of whole purple muscadine grapes from which substantial amounts of the juice have not been removed. Other additional sources of anthocyanins include blueberries, blackberries and raspberries; the additional source of anthocyanins can be obtained from a fruit processing waste stream to increase the efficiency of the production process.
US09173913B2
Provided are compositions comprising an extract of Paulownia tomentosa wood and methods of use thereof.
US09173911B2
The invention relates to extracting biologically active substances from raw vegetable matter, consists in using a liquefied carbon dioxide and can be used in the pharmaceutical, perfume-and-cosmetic and food industries. The aim of the invention is to produce a cell sap concentrate by using liquefied carbon dioxide for the irradiation thereof. The inventive method consists in extracting a milled matter by means of liquefied carbonic acid at room temperature and in separating an oil fraction, wherein the extraction is carried out at a high rate of the liquefied carbonic acid with a proportion of not less than 11 of carbonic acid per 1 g of extracted vegetable cell sap and a vegetable cell sap concentrate is produced by separating the oil fraction from a water fraction.
US09173908B2
The invention is directed to novel methods for modulating inflammatory and/or immune responses. Such methods utilize compositions comprising extraembryonic cells (herein referred to as EE cells) including but not limited to extraembryonic HLA-G positive cells (herein referred to as EHP cells) and amnion-derived multipotent progenitor cells (herein referred to as AMP cells); compositions comprising expanded EE cell populations, and/or cell lysates and/or conditioned media derived therefrom, alone or in combination with each other and/or in combination with various extracellular matrices and/or devices and/or other suitable active agents.
US09173906B2
A kit is disclosed that includes a first component comprising alginate, wherein the first component is comprised in a first sterile vile, and a second component comprising cells comprising keratinocytes or fibroblasts, or mixtures thereof, that secrete one or more biologically active molecules selected from the group consisting of GM-CSF, VEGF, KGF, bFGF, TGFβ, angiopoietin, EGF, IL-Iβ, TGFα, and TNFα, wherein the cells are allogeneic and mitotically inactive, a buffered solution, and human serum albumin or a cryoprotectant, wherein the second component is comprised in a second vial.
US09173894B2
This invention provides methods of preventing formation of, or treating, fibrotic lesions, including skin scars such as keloids and hypertrophic scars which comprise administering to the subject by one or more injection a compound which comprises a modified oligonucleotide, such as a modified antisense oligonucleotide, siRNA, or oligodeoxyribonucleotide, which inhibits expression of protein involved in fibrosis. Dosing of the antisense using an intradermal threading technique is also described.
US09173890B2
A method including advancing a delivery device through a lumen of a blood vessel to a particular region in the blood vessel; and introducing a composition including a sustained-release carrier and an apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) synthetic mimetic peptide into a wall of the blood vessel at the particular region or a perivascular site, wherein the peptide has a property that renders the peptide effective in reverse cholesterol transport. A composition including an apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) synthetic peptide, or combination of an apo A-I synthetic mimetic peptide and an Acyl CoA cholesterol: acyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitor in a form suitable for delivery into a blood vessel, the peptide including an amino acid sequence in an order reverse to an order of various apo A-I mimetic peptides, or endogenous apo A-I analogs, or a chimera of helix 1 and helix 9 of endogenous apo A-I.
US09173886B2
The present invention is drawn to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the following compound: The compound and other azacycle derivatives can be used in method of treatments for retroviral infections, such as HIV.
US09173876B2
The present invention relates to compounds that bind to and modulate the activity of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, to processes for preparing these compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and to methods of using these compounds for treating a wide variety of conditions and disorders, including those associated with dysfunction of the central nervous system (CNS).
US09173868B2
Methods for preventing and/or reducing side effects of an anti-cancer agent in a subject in need thereof are disclosed. The method comprises administering to the subject, who is under an anti-cancer agent treatment, a composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of isolated deoxyelephantopin and/or an analog thereof; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US09173867B2
This invention discloses cannabinoid derivatives and pharmaceutical uses thereof.
US09173863B2
The disclosure relates to methods of treating fibromyalgia, by administering a therapeutically-effective combination of an antiviral component and a COX-2 inhibitor component. The invention is further related to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a combination of a therapeutically-effective amount of the antiviral compound famciclovir and a therapeutically-effective amount of the COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib. The invention is also related to methods of treating functional somatic syndromes by administering a therapeutically-effective combination of famciclovir and celecoxib.
US09173848B2
The present invention is directed to solid stable pharmaceutical fixed dose compositions comprising irbesartan, amlodipine besilate and pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, to their preparation and to their therapeutic application.
US09173846B2
This invention provides novel solid pharmaceutical compositions and processes for the bulk production of said compositions. This invention also provides methods of using the pharmaceutical compositions in the treatment of cancer.
US09173844B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a gradual disintegration-type, sustained-release pharmaceutical solid preparation whose pharmacologically active substance release behavior is controlled. The solid pharmaceutical preparation of the present invention is a matrix-type preparation containing: (a) a pharmacologically active substance; (b) calcium polycarbophil; and (c) a specific sugar and/or sugar alcohol.
US09173842B2
Stable pharmaceutical composition consisting of a hydrosoluble vinflunine salt and at least one diluent and one lubricant, said composition being in the form of a solid intended for oral administration. The hydrosoluble vinflunine salt is preferably Vinflunine ditartrate. The pharmaceutical composition is advantageously in the form of a capsule or tablet. The invention also concerns a method of treating cancer pathology comprising the oral administration of the pharmaceutical composition of the invention.
US09173833B2
An antiperspirant composition comprising a suspension of from 1 to 50% of an aluminium and/or zirconium containing antiperspirant active, a carrier substance in which the antiperspirant active is insoluble, and a poly(ethylene glycol) solution of a polyelectrolyte salt comprising sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride and bromide ions, the weight ratio of sodium to the other named cations being less than 3:2 and the weight ratio of the bromide to chloride anion being greater than 1:99, in said solution.
US09173828B2
An agent for treating keratinous fibers, in particular human hair, containing in a cosmetically acceptable carrier (a) at least one amphiphilic, cationic polymer, comprising in each case at least one structural unit of formulae (I) to (IV), wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, X1, X2, A1, and A2 are defined as in the 1st claim, and (b) at least one copolymer comprising at least one structural unit of formula (A1), at least one structural unit of formula (A2), and at least one structural unit of formula (A3), wherein R1, R3, and R7 independently of each other stand for a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 stands for a (C1 to C4) alkyl group, R4 stands for a hydroxy (C2 to C6) alkyl group. Additionally, use of the agent for temporary shaping of hair and for hair conditioning, in particular as an aerosol hairspray or aerosol hair mousse.
US09173823B2
The invention relates to the use of norbixin and an urucum extract enriched in bixin and/or norbixin as a food. The invention also provides a food preparation comprising norbixin, bixin or an extract comprising at least bixin or norbixin, the preparation being intended to be administered orally, for the protection of mammalian skin against UV-radiation.
US09173821B2
The present invention relates to a process for dyeing keratin fibers, in particular human keratin fibers such as the hair, comprising the use of one or more metal catalysts chosen from transition metal salts and rare-earth metal salts, and mixtures thereof and a composition (I) comprising at least 10% by weight of one or more fatty substances different from fatty acids, one or more oxidation dyes and one or more oxidizing agents.
US09173814B2
The present invention relates to a container for liquids, a method of filling it and the use of the container according to the invention for holding and storing radioactive substances. The container for a liquid comprises a cavity for holding the liquid, the cavity being bounded by walls (1) at the sides and at the bottom, an opening for filling the cavity with the liquid, a closure for closing off the cavity, the closure having a piercing region for inserting a cannula into the cavity, a bottom casing (20) which surrounds the walls of the cavity in the standing area, a top casing (10) which surrounds the pierceable closure with the exception of the piercing region, and a film (30) which extends from the top casing to the bottom casing and surrounds those areas of the walls of the cavity which are not already surrounded by the top casing or bottom casing.
US09173794B2
This disclosure concerns an adjustable bed with a deck-on-deck appearance. A concealing assembly is attached to the center frame of an articulating bed, wherein the concealing assembly is situated below the mattress platform and conceals the base frame as the center frame moves along the base frame when the bed articulates. In other embodiments, such as for non-wall hugger beds where the center frame is stationary, a concealing assembly may still be used but will also be stationary.
US09173793B2
This disclosure concerns a wallhugger bed with a plurality of mattress retaining brackets secured to one or more corners of the mattress platform to keep the mattress from shifting on the mattress platform during operation of the actuator.
US09173784B2
The present disclosure generally relates to disposable diapers having absorbent cores comprising superabsorbent polymer particles which are immobilized by adhesive. The absorbent cores are attached to the backsheets of the disposable diapers in certain attachment zones to reduce see-through and the formation of tension lines on the backsheets.
US09173783B1
The present invention is an absorbent article, such as incontinence pads, absorbent personal pads for involuntary bladder elimination, feminine guards for incontinence, catamenial products, sanitary napkins, maxi pads, mini pads, liners, pantiliners, pads, nursing pads, menstruation tampons, sanitary tampons, tampons, feminine hygiene pads, menstruation pads, and sanitary pads. By allowing the user to utilize an absorbent article by itself, or multiple absorbent articles connected together, and by incorporating a unique design and shape, the present invention provides the user with a form-fitting and comfortable shape, maximum flexibility of use to conform to the user's body and garment type, an efficient means of catching of urine and/or other bodily liquids or discharges, the ability to hide the absorbent article underneath the user's undergarments regardless of the type, materials, or color of the undergarment worn, and the ability to hide pubic or other hair located underneath or protruding from the user's undergarments.
US09173779B2
The present invention relates to a swab for collecting biological specimens of the type consisting of a rod terminating in a tip covered with fibre with hydrophilic properties to allow absorption of said specimens, wherein said fibers covers said tip in the form of a layer deposited by flocking.
US09173772B1
A microsurgical handle and instrument may include an actuation structure having an actuation structure distal end and an actuation structure proximal end, a plurality of actuation arms of the actuation structure, and an actuation structure base. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to extend the actuation structure distal end relative to the actuation structure proximal end. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to expand an extension joint of an actuation arm of the plurality of the actuation arms. A decompression of the actuation structure may be configured to retract the actuation structure distal end relative to the actuation structure proximal end. A decompression of the actuation structure may be configured to collapse an extension joint of an actuation arm of the plurality of actuation arms.
US09173771B2
A surgical device and procedure are provided for smoothly and easily accessing tissue to perform microsurgery, including a capsulotomy of a lens capsule of an eye. The device includes a handpiece with a tip for insertion into an incision in the cornea of the eye. A sliding element is disposed within the handpiece and a suction cup is mounted to the sliding element. The sliding element can be translated to move the suction cup into and out of the handpiece. A compression mechanism associated with the suction cup and the handpiece compresses the suction cup for deployment through the tip of the handpiece. The suction cup can expand inside the anterior chamber into a cutting position on the lens capsule. A cutting element mounted to the suction cup is used to cut a portion of the lens capsule and to remove the portion from the eye.
US09173766B2
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) may be caused by a collapse of the pharyngeal wall as a result of increasing negative airway pressure. This invention is directed to systems and methods to resist collapse of the pharyngeal wall by minimally invasive upper pharyngeal airway surgery.
US09173761B2
A removable medical support mechanism can be used to protect a body member from injury. The mechanism includes a layer of flexible material providing a constrictive force upon the body member and a mesh layer comprising a plurality of interconnected mesh links. The mesh layer is configured to distribute a force of an impact upon the mechanism, thereby protecting the body member from receiving the force of the impact.
US09173759B2
Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially.
US09173752B2
A bioabsorbable, expandable coil bifurcation stent having a first, second, and third segment, in which the second and third segments are extensions of a coiled fiber in the first segment. Also disclosed is a three-segment expandable coil bifurcation stent in which the second and third segments extend from supporting fibers in the first segment. Further disclosed is an expandable bifurcation stent in which supporting fibers in the first segment also support the second and third segments. The three segments are independently adjustable to fit varied geometries.
US09173740B2
A method for producing a prosthetic acetabulum includes the following steps. First, one makes available a ceramic cup (1) that has a concave internal receiving face (3) and has an external annular receiving structure (6). Next, one makes available a placement and orientation insert (7) that has an annular peripheral fixing structure (10) designed to cooperate with the receiving face (9) of the external annular receiving structure (6) by engaging around the external annular receiving structure (6). Next, one heats the placement and orientation insert (7) in order to increase the dimensions of the insert. Next, one engages the annular peripheral fixing structure (10) around the receiving face (9) of the external annular receiving structure (6). Finally, one returns the placement and orientation insert (7) to ambient temperature in order to reduce the dimensions of the insert, in such a way as to obtain a radial clamping of the annular peripheral fixing structure (10) on the external annular receiving structure (6).
US09173738B2
A delivery system for use with a prosthetic heart valve having a stent frame to which a valve structure is attached includes a shaft assembly including a distal end, an intermediate portion, and a first coupling structure disposed near the distal end and configured to be coupled to a distal end of the prosthetic heart valve via a first tether. A sheath assembly defines a lumen sized to slidably receive the shaft assembly. The delivery system is configured to transition from a loaded state in which the sheath assembly encompasses the prosthetic heart valve to a deployed state in which the sheath assembly is withdrawn from the prosthetic heart valve. The first coupling structure is configured to be manipulated in a first direction to provide a controlled expansion or contraction of the distal end of the prosthetic heart valve.
US09173737B2
A stent frame including an annular portion having first and second ends, a central longitudinal axis, and a wire portion with at least two extending posts and a generally sinusoidal series of peaks and valleys between each of the at least two extending posts; an atrial portion extending from the first end of the annular portion, wherein the atrial portion includes a plurality of flares that extend radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis of the annular portion; and a ventricular portion extending from the second end of the annular portion, wherein the ventricular portion includes at least one flare that extends radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis of the annular portion.
US09173730B2
A suburethral sling device and method for treating female urinary stress incontinence which is anatomically configured to implant into the lower abdomen of a female in a manner providing support to mid-urethral and bladder neck sphincteric continence sites with the sling defining in part, mesh and tissue remodeling portions. The sling is deployed via a sling transfer instrument having distal and proximal ends with the instrument comprising in part a progressively curved shaft portion positioned between the distal and proximal ends. An insertion handle of the transfer instrument is secured to the curved metal shaft section guiding the shaft tip through the tissues of the abdomen in an anterior/posterior direction as well as a cephalad/caudad direction.
US09173723B2
A cradle, assembly, system and method for installing a prosthesis at a surgical site. The cradle temporarily engages the prosthesis and holds it in the correct orientation and position adjacent the surgical site. An aperture is defined in the cradle and a portion of the prosthesis is received therein. In one embodiment, the cradle, assembly and system are used to install a final dental prosthesis in a patient's mouth in a single visit to the dentist's office. A securement member pins the surgical template and subsequently the cradle to the jaw. A metal sub-structure on the final dental prosthesis is received in the aperture in the cradle. Cylinders attached to implants anchored in the jaw extend through holes in the sub-structure and are bonded to the prosthesis. The cradle is detached from the jaw and from the prosthesis prior to screws being re-inserted through the cylinders and into the implants.
US09173714B2
An anchoring device for use within a body cavity during a surgical procedure is disclosed. The anchoring device includes an external assembly, an internal assembly, a controller, and a module. The external assembly has a first magnetic component. The internal assembly has a second magnetic component. The internal assembly is sized to be placed inside of the body cavity. The electrical current is connected with one of the first and the second magnetic component to produce a magnetic field about the connected magnetic component to approximate the internal and external assemblies. The module determines a parameter and is in communication with a controller. The controller controls the electrical current in response to the parameter.
US09173708B2
A dermatological treatment device includes a device body; a laser diode bar configured to generate laser radiation for delivery to a target area of tissue, the laser diode bar having a fill factor of at least 50%; a power source; and control electronics configured to provide power from the power source to the laser diode bar such that the laser diode bar generates a laser beam; wherein the device is configured for delivering the generated laser beam to the target area of tissue to provide a dermatological treatment.
US09173706B2
A triaxial microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The triaxial microwave antenna includes a feedline having an inner conductor, a central conductor disposed about the inner conductor and an outer conductor disposed about the central conductor and a radiating portion including a high frequency radiating section and a low frequency radiating section.
US09173705B2
Methods and devices described herein facilitate ablation patterns on the heart within a pericardial sac and without opening or deflating the lungs.
US09173701B2
A device for performing a surgical procedure includes an elongated shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The shaft includes an outer surface and an inner surface. An expandable member is disposed at the distal end of the shaft. The expandable member is configured to receive inflation material. At least one electrode is disposed with the inflatable member. Methods of use are disclosed.
US09173698B2
Embodiments of the disclosed technology provide systems, devices, and methods of creating an electrosurgical tissue seal that is augmented with a seal-enhancing composition. One embodiment of a device includes a set of opposing electrosurgical jaws configured to be able to close on a targeted tissue-sealing site; the jaws have a reservoir configured to hold a tissue seal-enhancing composition. The reservoir is in communication with a surface of the tissue-sealing site when the jaws are closed on the site, and the electrosurgical device is configured to deliver the tissue seal-enhancing composition to the site during an electrosurgical procedure. The device is further configured to deliver sufficient radiofrequency energy to the site such that the targeted tissue and the tissue seal-enhancing composition at the tissue-sealing site are processed to form a high integrity sealed tissue site.
US09173690B2
An orthopedic plate assembly for supporting a bone can include a y-shaped first plate and a second plate separate from the first plate. The first plate can be attached to the bone and have a center line. The first plate can include an elongate body attachable to a first portion of the bone and extending along the center line and first and second arms transversely extending from an end of the body. The first and second arms can define an aperture in the first plate. The second plate can be attached to the bone. The second plate can have a first end and a second end opposite the first end configured to be disposed on and engaged with the first arm and the second arm, respectively. The second plate can be configured to span the aperture transverse to the center line when engaged with the first and second arms.
US09173688B2
The invention is related to medicine and, in particular, to a class of implants intended for osteosynthesis i.e. in the treatment of essentially all kinds of bone fractures. It is the aim of the present invention to eliminate the above contradiction and to design a bone implant and a spacer thereof that would not cause periosteum necrosis and osteoporosis of the bone and also a method of placing a bone implant of the kind. This aim is achieved by using polytetrafluorethylene, in particular, in the form of a porous surface three-dimensional structure as a spacer for a support surface of a bone implant.
US09173687B2
Systems and methods for manipulating a spinal construct are provided herein. In general, the system includes first and second sleeves extending from vertebrae and a fulcrum that can be releasably coupled to the sleeves. In certain aspects, the fulcrum can receive a portion of the sleeves therein and can allow the sleeves to pivot about the fulcrum in response to an applied force. The fulcrum can releasably couple to the sleeves in a variety of ways, and a position of the fulcrum relative to the sleeves can vary depending on whether there is an applied distracting, compressing, and/or derotating force. In some embodiments, user can manipulate the first and second sleeves relative to the fulcrum, using one hand, to distract, compress, and/or derotate the vertebrae.
US09173683B2
A revisable orthopedic anchor and method of use for removably securing an anchor in bone, such as compromised or degenerated bone, is described herein. In one embodiment, the anchor makes use of dual probes and vector divergence of the distal tips of the probes to achieve superior bone purchase and pull-out resistance. In such an embodiment, the probes can be inserted one at a time into a hole formed in, for example, the pedicle bone. After the probes are inserted and joined at the proximal end, they have a greater pull-out resistance than a threaded anchor. Removing the anchor involves separating the proximal heads and reversing the implantation process. As a result of the unique bone anchor design disclosed herein, the devices and methods of the present invention allow for less complicated implantation and removal of orthopedic anchors, all while providing enhanced bone purchase when implanted in a patient.
US09173674B2
The present invention generally relates to devices for harvesting a skin graft(s). The present invention provides a blister raising device integrated with a member for cutting the blister.
US09173673B2
Disclosed herein are devices and methods for removing tissue. In one aspect, a device for removing tissue includes a hollow elongate member having an outer wall and a lumen, a selectively deployable tissue-cutting element extending from the hollow elongate member, and an actuation member extending through the lumen and coupled to the hollow elongate member at a location that is distal to the tissue-cutting element. Movement of the actuation member can cause the tissue-cutting element to move from the insertion configuration where the tissue-cutting element is not deployed to a tissue-cutting configuration where the tissue-cutting element is deployed such that it is radially extended relative to the insertion configuration.
US09173672B2
At the surgical tool's proximal end, there is a first means (3) to generate ultrasonic vibration in a torsional shear mode. There is also a second means (2) to generate ultrasonic vibration in a longitudinal compression mode. A wave guide (4) is operatively connected to both generating means and extending therefrom by a distance of nλ/2 to a distal end provided with cutting and/or coagulating means. The ratio of the wavelengths of the longitudinal compression wave and the torsional shear wave, λc: λτ, is an odd number. Preferably λc=Nxλτ (where N is an odd integral number and x is an integer). Delicate shear motion of the torsional ultrasonic vibrational mode is combined with the more vigorous excitation of the longitudinal compression wave ultrasonic vibration.
US09173670B2
The present invention relates to devices, methods, and systems for abrading the skin in preparation for attachment of an electrode. In some embodiments, the invention may provide for a simple, low-cost device 120 with a flat, abrading surface that removes the topmost layer of the skin without causing undue injury.
US09173666B2
An orthopedic device for cutting or resurfacing an outer bone surface of a bone of a patient includes first and second guides. Each guide has a patient-specific surface preoperatively configured as a negative surface of a portion of the outer bone surface of the bone and a plurality of elongated slots. The elongated slots of the second guide are offset relative to the elongated slots of the first guide and configured for guiding a tool to resurface the outer bone surface.
US09173652B2
An inserter for simultaneously creating a bone tunnel and delivering an all-suture anchor. The inserter is capable of inserting into the bone tunnel a soft, non-rigid suture anchor by forming a bone tunnel (to serve as an anchor receiving area) and simultaneously, in one motion, delivering the soft suture anchor to the anchor receiving area. The soft suture anchor is made entirely of non-rigid materials including, but not limited to, filaments of soft, malleable materials such as those commonly used to make sutures. The inserter is able to not only carry or deliver the all-suture anchor into a bony substrate, but is able to do so without having to preform a hole in the bone.
US09173650B2
The present invention provides a method for stabilizing a fractured bone. The method includes positioning an elongate rod in the medullary canal of the fractured bone and forming a passageway through the cortex of the bone. The passageway extends from the exterior surface of the bone to the medullary canal of the bone. The method also includes creating a bonding region on the elongate rod. The bonding region is generally aligned with the passageway of the cortex. Furthermore, the method includes positioning a fastener in the passageway of the cortex and on the bonding region of the elongate rod and thermally bonding the fastener to the bonding region of the elongate rod while the fastener is positioned in the passageway of the cortex.
US09173647B2
A tissue fixation system is provided for dynamic and rigid fixation of tissue. A fastener connected with an elongate fastening member, such as a cable, wire, suture, rod, or tube, is moved through a passage between opposite sides of tissue. The fastener is provided with a groove that accommodates at least a portion of the fastening member to reduce the profile during the movement through the passage. The fastener is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second fastener can then be connected with the fastening member. While tension is maintained in the fastening member, the fasteners are secured against relative movement. This may be done by deforming the fastening member, either the first or second fasteners, or a bushing placed against the second fastener.
US09173646B2
Described herein are devices, methods and kits for assessing and/or enhancing the accessibility of a subvalvular space of a heart, accessing the subvalvular space of the heart (e.g., to provide access for one or more other devices), and/or positioning one or more devices in the subvalvular space of the heart. The devices described herein may, for example, comprise catheters that may be used to manipulate one or more chordae tendineae, diagnostic catheters having different sizes and/or shapes (e.g., different curvatures), guide catheters having different sizes and/or shapes (e.g., different curvatures), and visualization catheters. In some variations, the devices, methods, and/or kits may be used to visualize a target site, such as a subannular groove of a heart valve. In certain variations, the devices, methods, and/or kits may be used to manipulate chordae tendineae to provide additional space in a ventricle of a heart (e.g., enhancing the accessibility of the ventricle).
US09173645B2
An anchor assembly can include at least one anchor member, such as a pair of anchor members that are configured to be implanted in a target anatomical location in a first configuration, and can subsequently be actuated to an expanded configuration that secures the anchor members in the target anatomy. The anchor assembly can further include a connector member that attaches the pair of anchor members together across a gap so as to approximate the anatomical defect.
US09173642B2
An embodiment of a handle assembly for an elongate medical device that may reduce the weight and/or expense of traditional handle may include an exterior adjusting knob extending along a longitudinal axis and configured to rotate about the axis, an insert, and a dowel pin. The insert may be configured to engage the adjusting knob and to rotate about the axis responsive to rotation of the adjusting knob. The insert may comprise an annular groove configured to engage a dowel pin, the annular groove comprising a sidewall comprising a chamfer. The dowel pin may be configured to engage the annular groove to resist rotation of the insert. In an embodiment, the insert may comprise plastic or polymer.
US09173636B2
An ultrasound probe including: an ultrasound transmission/reception portion; a cable; a housing; a hole portion of the housing; an insulation pipe having a proximal end side exposed outside the housing; an insulation tube covering an outer circumference of an exposed region of the insulation pipe and an outer circumference of the cable; an adhesive located between the outer circumference of the exposed region and a distal end side region of the insulation tube and configured to adhere the insulation pipe and the insulation tube to each other; and a sticky member disposed between the exposed region and the distal end side region together with the adhesive.
US09173625B2
A SPECT diagnostic method of performing myocardial perfusion imaging on a patient by administering a rest radiotracer to the patient while the patient is at rest; then when the rest radiotracer is fixed in a heart of the patient, scanning the heart to obtain rest heart pumping ability information; scanning the heart of the patient to obtain a rest perfusion image; administering a stressing agent to the patient to place the patient's heart under stress; scanning the heart of the patient to obtain stress heart pumping ability information; then administering a stress radiotracer while the heart of the patient is under stress; then when the stress radiotracer is fixed in the heart, scanning the heart to obtain a stress perfusion image.
US09173623B2
A method and a device for low x-ray radiation dosage while taking x-ray images of a patient's teeth is disclosed. The method includes use of an x-ray source and receiver positioned at least partially inside the patient's mouth. The device includes an x-ray source and receiver attached together by a bite holder and configured to both be disposed at least partially inside the patient's mouth across a tooth while taking x-ray images of a patient's tooth.
US09173616B2
Provided is a method and apparatus for providing a three-dimensional (3D) image. A plurality of first projection images may be created by detecting X-rays which are emitted toward an object at different angles. A plurality of second projection images with respect to a partial volume of the object may be created by applying a forward projection and interpolation to at least one of the plurality of first projection images. A left image and a right image may be selected from among the plurality of second projection images, and the selected left image and right image may be displayed for a user as a 3D projection image.
US09173615B2
Methods and apparatus combine patient measurement data with demographic or physiological data of the patient to determine an output that can be used to diagnose and treat the patient. A customized output can be determined based the demographics of the patient, physiological data of the patient, and data of a population of patients. In another aspect, patient measurement data is used to predict an impending cardiac event, such as acute decompensated heart failure. At least one personalized value is determined for the patient, and a patient event prediction output is generated based at least in part on the personalized value and the measurement data. For example, bioimpedance data may be used to establish a baseline impedance specific to the patient, and the patient event prediction output generated based in part on the relationship of ongoing impedance measurements to the baseline impedance. Multivariate prediction models may enhance prediction accuracy.
US09173613B2
The present invention relates to a system (1) and method for automatically monitoring the movement activity of a fetus. In order to provide a simple and reliable technique for monitoring the movement activity of a fetus, a method of automatically monitoring the movement activity of a fetus is suggested, the method comprising the steps of: detecting (200) the overall movements of a pregnant female, said overall movements comprising movements of the pregnant female and movements of the fetus; detecting at least one second physiological signal (26) of the pregnant female; and—determining (300) the movement activity of the fetus by analyzing the detected overall movements of the pregnant female, analyzing the at least one second physiological signal (26) of the pregnant female, and discriminating movements of the pregnant female from movements of the fetus depending on the analyzing results.
US09173608B2
An analytical magazine is proposed, which comprises a plurality of analytical aids accommodated in chambers. The analytical magazine is arranged to be accommodated in at least two orientations in an analytical system. The analytical magazine is furthermore arranged to provide the analytical system, in the orientations, in each case with a plurality of analytical aids. At least one sampling movement can be executed by means of the analytical aids. The analytical magazine is arranged to make a remagazining of the analytical aids possible.
US09173597B2
In some aspects, an analyte sensor is provided for detecting an analyte concentration level in a bio-fluid sample. The analyte sensor may include one or more conductors received in a hollow portion of a hollow member. The first conductor may be made, at least in part, of a semiconductor material and an active region may be provided in contact with at least the first conductor. The analyte sensor may, in one aspect, include a lancet and an integrated sensor. Manufacturing methods and apparatus and systems utilizing the analyte sensors are provided, as are numerous other aspects.
US09173593B2
The invention provides a system for measuring respiratory rate (RR) from a patient. The system includes an impedance pneumography (IP) sensor, connected to at least two electrodes, and a processing system that receives and processes signals from the electrodes to measure an IP signal. A motion sensor (e.g. an accelerometer) measures at least one motion signal (e.g. an ACC waveform) describing movement of a portion of the patient's body to which it is attached. The processing system receives the IP and motion signals, and processes them to determine, respectfully, frequency-domain IP and motion spectra. Both spectra are then collectively processed to remove motion components from the IP spectrum and determine RR. For example, during the processing, an algorithm determines motion frequency components from the frequency-domain motion spectrum, and then using a digital filter removes these, or parameters calculated therefrom, from the IP spectrum.
US09173590B2
Method and system embodiments of the present invention employ computational analysis tools running on one or more computer systems to quantitatively analyze MRI data from patients in order to both assess various functional parameters and characteristics of a patient's kidney, as well as to provide an electronic display device interconnected with the one or more computer systems, and accessible visualization of the quantitative assessment to facilitate diagnosis of various types of kidney abnormalities and pathologies.
US09173588B2
A method for identifying a stimulation target is provided, which uses microelectrode recording and electrical impedance tomography techniques together in a composite probe. The composite probe includes at least a microelectrode recording sensor and a plurality of microelectrodes, so that after the composite probe is guided and implanted to a depth suitable for the stimulation target based on microelectrode recording signals, tissue structures surrounding the composite probe are delineated by using the plurality of microelectrodes, and the boundary of the stimulation target and the precise location of the composite probe within the stimulation target are determined. Accordingly, the present invention provides a quick and accurate direction for surgeons, eliminating the problem of not knowing the exact location of the implanted probe within the stimulation target as in the case during deep brain stimulation surgeries.
US09173586B2
A system and method for assessing a degree of coupling between an electrode and tissue in a body is provided. Values for first and second components of a complex impedance (e.g., resistance and reactance or impedance magnitude and phase angle) between the electrode and the tissue are obtained. These values are used together with a standardization value indicative of a deviation from a reference standard by a parameter associated with at least one of the body, the electrode and another component of the system to calculate a coupling index that is indicative of a degree of coupling between the electrode and the tissue. The coupling index may be displayed to a clinician in a variety of ways to indicate the degree of coupling to the clinician. The system and method find particular application in ablation of tissue by permitting a clinician to create lesions in the tissue more effectively and safely.
US09173581B2
Apparatus for measuring sural nerve conduction velocity and amplitude, the apparatus including a housing; stimulation means for electrically stimulating a human sural nerve; a biosensor comprising a plurality of electrodes for detecting a sural nerve response evoked by the stimulation means; acquisition means electrically connected to the biosensor for electrically acquiring the sural nerve response detected by the biosensor; processing means electrically connected to the acquisition means for digitizing, processing and storing the acquired sural nerve response; calculation means electrically connected to the processing means for calculating the conduction velocity and amplitude of the processed sural nerve response; and display means for displaying the sural nerve conduction velocity and amplitude; wherein the stimulation means and the biosensor are designed to be placed on a patient's anatomy, in the vicinity of a sural nerve.
US09173579B2
A computer-implemented method for characterizing circulatory blood volume is disclosed. The method has the steps of acquiring a biological signal that emulates the arterial pulse wave from a sensor. Two derived parameters, circulatory stress, which reflects a harmonic of heart rate, and circulatory blood flow, which reflects the amplitude of the unprocessed biological signal, are extrapolated from the biological signal, and are each compared to a threshold value and assessed to determine an adequacy of circulatory blood volume. In embodiments, the assessment of circulatory blood volume is used to manage a patient's cardiovascular autoregulatory function or the adequacy of transfer of fluids to and from the circulatory system, with the ultimate goal of achieving a circulatory blood volume that adequately supplies the demands of the patient's tissues and organs.
US09173577B2
A system comprising a biometric monitoring device including a housing including a platform to receive at least one foot of the user, a body weight sensor to generate body weight data, processing circuitry to calculate user weight data which corresponds to the user's weight, using the body weight data, and communication circuitry to: (a) receive user identification data which identifies the user or a portable activity monitoring device, and (b) transmit the user weight data to data storage associated with the user identification data. The system further includes the portable activity monitoring device including a housing having a physical size and shape that is adapted to couple to the user's body, a sensor to generate sensor data, and communication circuitry to receive physiologic data which is based on the user weight data, and processing circuitry to calculate activity data using the sensor data and physiologic data.
US09173571B2
Devices and processes for maintaining a narrow body lumen are described. One embodiment of the inventive device includes: (i) a hydraulic propulsion mechanism for propelling an imaging portion or a therapeutic portion through the narrow body lumen; and (ii) a retrieval mechanism for retrieving the imaging portion or the therapeutic portion from the narrow body lumen.
US09173570B2
Multispectral images, including ultraviolet light and its interactions with ultraviolet light-interactive compounds, can be captured, processed, and represented to a user. Ultraviolet-light related information can be conveniently provided to a user to allow the user to have awareness of UV characteristics and the user's risk to UV exposure.
US09173567B2
In particular embodiments, a method includes accessing one or more physiological data streams, analyzing each physiological data stream in reference to a set of control parameters, and, if a data stream deviates from its control parameters, then transmitting a query to a mood sensor or a behavioral sensor.
US09173562B2
Disclosed is a method for detecting neovascularized tissue that includes placing a tissue in the path of a light beam, measuring a polarization shift of the light beam, and detecting neovascularized tissue if the measured polarization shift corresponds to a polarization shift of a neovascularized tissue. Also disclosed is an apparatus for detecting neovascularized tissue that includes a laser, a polarizer coupled to the laser, a tissue sample holder coupled to the polarizer, an analyzer coupled to the tissue sample holder, a detector coupled to the analyzer, and a data acquisition system coupled to the detector, wherein the data acquisition system is configured to measure a polarization shift of a light beam emitted by the laser and diagnose an ocular disease if the measured polarization shift corresponds to a polarization shift of a neovascularized tissue.
US09173561B2
An alignment apparatus and method is disclosed, for ensuring correct alignment of a patient's eye with respect to an ophthalmic or optometric instrument. Graphical objects are provided which represent an ideal and an actual position of the eye, and provide for easy and intuitive feedback to an eye care professional operating the instrument on the alignment position of the patient.
US09173560B2
Method for determining deviations between coordinate systems of different technical systems, comprising the steps of determining a coordinate position of a reference feature of a test object in the coordinate system (u,v) of a first of the technical systems, the attachment of at least one test feature to the test object, with the test feature being attached in the coordinate system of a second of the technical systems at a coordinate position that is determined in dependence on the determined coordinate position of the reference feature, the determination of a coordinate position of at least one test feature and/or at least one feature derived from it in the coordinate system (u,v) of the first technical system, and determination of deviations between the coordinate systems of the first and second technical system, at least on the basis of: (a) the determined coordinate position of at least one test feature and/or of at least one feature derived from it in the coordinate system (u,v) of the first technical system and (b) the coordinate position of the reference feature in the coordinate system (u,v) of the first technical system.
US09173554B2
An imaging system for acquisition of NIR and full-color images includes a light source providing visible light and NIR light to an area under observation, such as living tissue, a camera having one or more image sensors configured to separately detect blue reflectance light, green reflectance light, and combined red reflectance light/detected NIR light returned from the area under observation. A controller in signal communication with the light source and the camera is configured to control the light source to continuously illuminate area under observation with temporally continuous blue/green illumination light and with red illumination light and NIR excitation light. At least one of the red illumination light and NIR excitation light are switched on and off periodically in synchronism with the acquisition of red and NIR light images in the camera.
US09173552B2
An endoscope includes an insertion portion including a bending portion configured to bend in four directions, and a flexible tube portion provided so as to be continuous with the bending portion, wherein the bending portion includes a first bending region and a second bending region, and wherein the flexible tube portion comprises inside, four first guide pipes each including a distal end fixed to a distal end of the first bending region and a proximal end fixed to a bending portion operation device, and three second guide pipes each including a distal end fixed to a distal end of the second bending region and a proximal end fixed to a bending portion bent shape switching device.
US09173546B2
A diagnostic device (10) for pathologies of tubular anatomical structures comprises a tubular elongated structure (12, 28) developing between a proximal end and a distal end and is adapted to be inserted in the tubular anatomical structure, means (22) for locally dilating the walls of the tubular anatomical structure being associated with the distal end of said elongated structure, said means for locally dilating being movable between a closed position for introducing the device and at least one open position for viewing and evaluating the pathology, and control means being associated with the proximal end of the elongated structure, said control means being operatively connected to said means for locally dilating, in order to move them between the closed position and the open position, and vice versa.
US09173538B2
A paint preparation tool (10) having a distal brush head (18) with a mode valve to switch between continuous spraying under low pressure and pulsed spraying under higher pressure' connected by a hollow tube to a proximal remote control element (14) capable of switching off liquid to the brush head (18), or supplying liquid cleaner solution to the brush head (18) at low pressure or supplying liquid under the higher pressure to the brush head (18) using a rotary spool valve in the control element to actuate the mode valve in the brush head (18). The brush head (18) has bristles for cleaning and a pair of rotating rotors to provide the pulsed spraying under higher pressure.
US09173525B2
A method of preparing a blended food product includes the steps of: introducing a composition of food product(s) into a container, providing a closure for the container, the closure carrying an impeller; inverting the container so that the closure with its blending element lies lowermost; and driving the blending element to blend the composition to form a blended food product. Prior to blending, the container is mounted in a holder and clamped in place between the closure and the holder, to prevent leakage during blending. The holder may be in the form of a sleeve. A drive master is also provided for use with two sets of blending lids.
US09173515B2
An indicator for a hanger includes a body having side walls and joining end walls, openings at opposing top and bottom ends, and a passage extending through the body and joining the openings. The indicator may be positioned around a hook of the hanger such that the hook extends from the opening at the top end of the body. The indicator may also include an attachment mechanism for securing the indictor to the hanger. Alternatively or in addition, the hanger may include a mechanism for securing the indictor to the hanger. Information may be displayed on one or more of the side walls and end walls of the indicator.
US09173504B2
A merchandise display system can include a front rail, at least one divider configured to engage the front rail, the at least one divider including a barrier. The at least one divider may also include a divider wall, and a roller carriage extending along the divider wall. The roller carriage can be provided with a plurality of rollers, and the roller carriage can be configured to advance the product. Additionally a cam can be coupled to the divider. Additionally, the roller carriage can be tilted such that the product is configured to move toward the barrier. The roller carriage can be formed of a first portion and a second portion, and the roller carriage can provided with a plurality of axles that are configured to receive the plurality of rollers such that the plurality of rollers are configured to rotate on the roller carriage. A method for forming a merchandise display system is also contemplated.
US09173503B2
An infant swing apparatus includes a base frame, a rigid support column rising from the base frame and having a front and a rear, and a swing arm arranged at the front of the support column and having a first end portion and a second end portion. The support column has an upper portion that leans toward the rear of the support column. The first end portion of the swing arm is connected with a seat support, and the second end portion is pivotally connected with the upper portion of the support column about a pivot axis that is located above the seat support.
US09173496B2
An elastomeric load bearing surface with different load support characteristics in different directions. In one embodiment, the surface includes an elastomeric membrane that is oriented in only a single direction, for example, by compression or stretching. In another embodiment, the surface includes mechanical structures, such as connectors, variations in thickness and apertures, that vary the load support characteristics in different directions. In another aspect, the present invention provides a multilayer load bearing surface in which the layers cooperate to provide a controlled force/deflection profile that is variable in different regions of the surface. In one embodiment, the upper layer includes a plurality of loosely connected nodes and a lower layer having a plurality of resilient elements that separately support each node.
US09173495B2
The chair adjustment mechanism, attached beneath a chair arm, has a housing and four walls forming an interior closed space. A closing bottom wall has a longitudinal guide slot. A longitudinal continuous serpentine adjustment cam surface. A cam follower on an adjustment plate moves on the cam surface in the interior space. The adjustment plate movably extends through the guide slot in a close fit and substantially closes the guide slot thereat. In one embodiment, each sidewall defines an opposing cam surface and a pair of cam followers extend laterally from an upper region of the adjustment plate. The lower plate extends outward from the slot and is preferably attached to two chair legs. The adjustment plate moves vertically, first out from the depending cam ridges, then the plate and cam follower moves longitudinally, and then moves vertically into a different intersection between adjacent depending cam ridges.
US09173490B2
A shelving assembly includes a support plate, left and right side supports, and rear and front anti-tip and retention features. The side supports each include a front end located adjacent to a front edge of the support plate, and a rear end located adjacent to a rear edge of the support plate. A portion of the rear and front anti-tip and retention features is disposed above the support plate for preventing tipping and for retaining the support plate on the side supports. The front and rear anti-tip and retention features are spaced apart such that a majority of the top surface of the support plate along opposite left and right side edges is freely exposed and unencumbered by the front and rear anti-tip and retention features.
US09173485B2
In accordance with some embodiments, a self-expanding, collapsible mechanism (e.g., for expanding an outer substrate or substrates of a display unit) and a display unit comprising at least one self-expanding, collapsible mechanism are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a self-expanding mechanism is load-bearing. In one embodiment, a display unit may be configured to have at least one load-bearing surface (e.g., supported by one or more load-bearing inserts).
US09173470B2
The present invention relates to a beauty apparatus comprising: a case unit comprising an upper case for accommodating powder and a lower case detachably attached to the upper case; a guide mounted to the lower case between the upper case and the lower case; a magnetic field generating unit mounted to an inside of the lower case between the guide and the lower case, for generating a time-varying magnetic field; a magnetic body coupling part moving through the guide within the lower case according to a change of a magnetic field; a movable plate mounted to the magnetic body coupling part passing through a guide hole formed in the guide on the magnetic body coupling part, for restricting movement of the magnetic body coupling part; and a puff pad enclosing the guide to vibrate according to movement of the movable plate.
US09173468B2
An appliance, such as a hairdryer, includes a body having a second annular wall extending about a first annular wall which at least partially defines a bore extending through the body. A fluid flow path extends through the bore from a first fluid inlet of the appliance to a first fluid outlet of the appliance. A primary fluid flow path extends at least partially through the body from a second fluid inlet of the appliance to a second fluid outlet, and comprises, within the body, a first section and a second section in which a heater is located. The first section is arranged to direct fluid over an internal surface of at least one of the annular walls. The first section is arranged upstream of, or in parallel with, the second section.
US09173465B2
A device for curling hair, and/or styling hair includes a handle, a first arm and a second arm. The first and second arms are arranged side-by-side and parallel to one another and extend substantially along a longitudinal axis of the device. The device includes at least one heating element for heating the first and/or second arm. At least the first arm includes a fixed hemi-arm that is solid with the handle and fixed in orientation and a mobile hemi-arm elastically supported by and movable relative to said fixed hemi-arm.
US09173458B2
A waterproof, airtight, anti-slit, high transverse tensile strength double-layer zipper made by: stitching a continuous polyester chain to a middle part of a broad-width fabric tape and then separating the continuous polyester chain into left and right series of interlocking teeth after zipper chain tape dyeing and drying and gluing processes, and then folding up the zipper chain tape and stitching up the open side of the folded zipper chain tape so as to obtain a single-sided double-layer zipper chain tape, and then using a zipper slider to couple two single-sided double-layer zipper chain tapes, thereby obtaining a waterproof, airtight, anti-slit, high transverse tensile strength double-layer zipper. Alternatively, the continuous polyester chain can be stitched to the broad-width fabric tape near its one lateral side for making a high-strength double-layer zipper with less fabric consumption.
US09173456B2
A restraint system for a mobile platform is provided and may include a first belt portion and a second belt portion each having a first end secured to the mobile platform and a second end movable relative to the mobile platform. A latch plate may be fixed to the second end of one of the first belt portion and the second belt portion and a buckle may be secured to the second end of the other of the first belt portion and the second belt portion. The buckle may be selectively connected to the latch plate in a latched state and may include a housing having an opening receiving the latch plate in the latched state and at least one aperture disposed adjacent to the opening and formed through a surface of the housing opposing a user when in the latched state.
US09173448B1
A shoe assembly that enables a person to wear a wresting shoe or similar athletic shoe that has no cushioning material in its sole, and selectively attach an overshoe that has highly padded soles. In this way, an athlete can comfortably train on and off padded surfaces without having to change shoes. The athletic shoe has a first sole, a first toe section and a first heel section, wherein the first sole has surfaces with contoured shapes. An overshoe is provided that defines an interior sized to exactly receive a portion of the athletic shoe therein. The overshoe has surfaces that engage the contoured shapes of the wrestling shoe surfaces. This prevents the athletic shoe from moving within the overshoe. The sole of the overshoe is padded. In this manner, an athlete can add or remove padding from the shoe assembly by adding or removing the overshoe.
US09173446B2
A device for removable securing decorative objects to a thong type sandal and a sandal system incorporating such a device.
US09173443B2
Apparatus and associated methods may relate to an artificial tree apparatus having a plurality of trunk segments that couple together to provide a plurality of information or command signals to load devices connected thereto. In an illustrative example, one or more branch segments having light emitting devices are connected to the trunk segments to independently receive the electrical power and command signals via a control system. In some implementations, each command signal generated by the control system may include data pertaining to light color and illumination pattern. In some embodiments, each branch segment and associated light emitting devices may be independently controlled via a multi-channel arrangement. In some implementations, each group of light emitting devices may be manually configured via one or more user-interfaces. In various implementations, each trunk segment may include an axial electrical connector which permits adjacent trunk segments from being connected in any radial orientation relative to each other.
US09173442B2
A device, namely a detactable fastener accessory that can be used to cover a fastener, preferably a snap cover of an article of clothing, the accessory having or adapted to have a decorative cover piece connected thereto. In a further embodiment, the fastener accessory is part of an extender system that allows an article of clothing such as a vest or jacket to have a greater size by connecting an extension segment, such as a chain, piece of leather or other fabric, between fasteners on opposite sides of the article of clothing, which at least provides the advantages of allowing a user to achieve better ventilation or airflow while riding a motorcycle and also prevents the article of clothing from being blown out of a desired position. When used in the extender system, the fastener accessory allows for matching decorative pieces to be displayed on each side of the article of clothing.
US09173431B2
Systems and methods of de-stemming produce are provided. An apparatus can process an item of produce having a first portion and a second portion attached to the first portion. The apparatus can include at least one first conveyor unit that can convey the first portion of the item of produce in a first direction. The apparatus can include at least one second conveyor unit that can convey the second portion of the item of produce in a second direction that differs from the first linear direction by between zero and 90 degrees to generate a separation force between the first portion of the item of produce and the second portion of the item of produce that separates the first portion from the second portion.
US09173423B2
A method of providing an animal food having an active. A Probiotic animal food having a low water activity that can be contained within a package having a low vapor transmission rate. The animal food can have a shelf life sufficient to deliver a target dose of Probiotic to an animal. The water activity of the animal food can be controlled. The activity level of the Probiotic can be controlled.
US09173422B2
The invention encompasses compositions and methods for treating or preventing kidney disease in a companion animal, wherein the compositions and methods include feeding the companion animal an edible composition including at least one pyruvate or salt thereof.
US09173419B2
A specific lecithin composition comprising phospholipids and lysophospholipids is described that can be used as an animal feed additive for the improvement of digestibility parameters and consequently gut health and animal performance. In addition, the mixture possesses useful biological and chemical properties that can be utilized in the animal feed and human food industries. The composition is chemically characterized by means of HPLC-ELSD, HPLC-MS/MS and 31P-NMR and its biological functionalities are fully described.
US09173418B2
A method for producing confectionary products having an outer shell made of a substance that is placed inside a mold into which a temperature-controlled male die is subsequently introduced. The substance is placed under pressure after the male die is introduced.
US09173415B2
An apparatus for refrigeration and heating of bulk fluid, and particularly, but not exclusively, to the refrigeration of bulk milk freshly obtained from dairy animals such as cows. The apparatus is provided with a refrigerated bulk milk tank and magnetic refrigeration unit for refrigerating and heating, as appropriate, the fluid stored in said tank. The fluid stored in the tank is one of (i) milk, (ii) milk and one or more fermenting agents, (iii) a cleaning fluid, (iv) water, and (v) air. Normally, the fluid stored in the tank is milk.
US09173405B2
The invention relates to a herbicide formulation comprising a water soluble salt of n-phosphomethylglycine and at least one adjuvant, the said adjuvant consisting in an alkoxylated imidazoline with the following structure I wherein R1 is a saturated or unsaturated C4 to C24 fatty acid. The use of the alkoxylated imidazoline provides as a result a herbicide formulation that is not irritant to the skin or the eyes. Furthermore, the adjustment of the degree of ethoxylation or propoxylation of the imidazoline permits the compatibility thereof with the various glyphosate salts, allowing the obtainment of concentrated solutions that maintain stability at temperatures higher than 60° C., without requiring other adjuvants.
US09173401B2
Provided herein are new N—,C-disubstituted azoles and derivatives thereof that exhibit nematicidal activity and are useful, for example, in methods for the control of unwanted nematodes.
US09173398B2
Described is a biocide composition, comprising: a herbicide; a fatty acid amide; a fatty acid; and optionally an emulsifier and/or a polyol. The composition exhibits an improved stability, especially at lower temperatures, and is both environmentally friendly and non-toxic.
US09173397B2
The invention relates to the use of aromatic esters as adjuvants in compositions, particularly for agrochemical use, as well to compositions comprising such an aromatic ester, in combination with at least one agrochemical and at least one surfactant. The invention further extends to methods of making and using such compositions. In particular the present invention relates to such compositions when formulated as, or comprised by, an emulsion concentrate (EC), an emulsion in water (EW), a suspension of particles in water (SC), a microcapsule formulation (CS), a suspension of particles in the continuous phase of an emulsion (SE), a dispersion concentrate (DC) or an oil suspension (OD).
US09173396B2
The present application relates to novel heterocyclic compounds, to processes for preparation thereof and to the use thereof for controlling animal pests, which also include arthropods and especially insects.
US09173395B2
Use of substituted isoquinolinones, isoquinolinediones, isoquinolinetriones and dihydroisoquinolinones of the general formula (I) or their respective salts where the radicals in the general formula (I) correspond to the definitions given in the description, for enhancing stress tolerance in plants to abiotic stress, for strengthening plant growth and/or for increasing plant yield, and selected processes for preparing the compounds mentioned above.
US09173392B2
An emulsifiable concentrate (EC) is provided. The EC includes an active component, a solvent component, and an emulsifier component. The active component is present in an amount of from 20 to 90 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the emulsifiable concentrate. The solvent component includes 1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester. The emulsifier component is present in an amount of from 5 to 15 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the emulsifiable concentrate and includes an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, and a surfactant including at least one ethylene oxide block. Moreover, the active component is dissolved in the solvent component.
US09173389B2
Systems to create and maintain pre-designed geometrically shaped volumes of an effective dynamic mixture of volatile compounds encompassing an object of protection for very long times, up to one or more years, for control of pests and pest-borne diseases in open outdoor environments of importance to humans, animals and plants. The systems include a plurality of passive flow control nozzles containing mass-regulating barriers with retaining fixtures, strategically positioned and uniquely oriented, connected to volatile compound-storage structures with replenishing connectors, for delivering controlled release of volatile compounds using individual passive flow control nozzles that dispense volatile compounds at continuous, predetermined, substantially constant and sustainable release rates over extended periods of time; appurtenances to protect the mass-regulating barriers while in operation; and sensors to monitor the biologically active threshold and the concentrations of volatile compound within the pre-designed geometrically shaped volumes of volatile compounds.
US09173384B2
A method is provided for producing an arthropod comprising introducing a microsystem such as a MEMS device into an immature arthropod under conditions that result in producing an adult arthropod with a functional microsystem permanently attached to its body. A method is also provided for producing a robotic apparatus. The method can comprise introducing a microsystem such as a MEMS device into an immature arthropod under conditions that result in producing a robotic apparatus with the microsystem permanently attached to the body of the adult arthropod.
US09173382B1
A water changing and cleaning system and device for bowl, aquarium or pond kept pet fish is disclosed. You can pour the fish directly from a bowl into this invention, (capacity is unlimited due to flow through design). Device comprises a container within a container, the inner container features a gill port, running horizontally and flush with the bottom of the container, water flows through the inner container and rises in the space between the two containers, until it overflows from the provided outlet on the outer container, carrying unwanted matter with it. Using a source of clean water to flush through the device, once a satisfactory level of cleanliness is observed the inner container is removed and the fish is returned to its cleaned Bowl. The fish was never out of water during the process. Device can be used to capture fish, so no nets required.
US09173375B1
An animal feeder includes a funnel dispenser to control feed flow and dispersal. The funnel dispenser includes a main support collar to support the funnel dispenser and allow the funnel dispenser to freely rotate. The funnel dispenser includes a feeding tube and a funnel to channel feed into the feeding tube. The funnel extends into the feeding tube at least one third of the diameter of the feeding tube.
US09173368B2
A novel canola variety designated NS6703 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a canola plant that comprise crossing canola variety NS6703 with another canola plant. Methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into NS6703 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the canola seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid canola seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the canola variety NS6703 or a locus conversion of NS6703 with another canola variety.
US09173367B2
A novel canola variety designated NS6623 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a canola plant that comprise crossing canola variety NS6623 with another canola plant. Methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into NS6623 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the canola seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid canola seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the canola variety NS6623 or a locus conversion of NS6623 with another canola variety.
US09173363B1
A novel maize variety designated PH1C3S and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1C3S with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1C3S through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1C3S or a locus conversion of PH1C3S with another maize variety.
US09173362B1
A novel maize variety designated X13D112 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X13D112 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X13D112 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X13D112, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X13D112. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X13D112.
US09173359B1
A novel maize variety designated PH1DG3 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1DG3 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1DG3 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1DG3 or a locus conversion of PH1DG3 with another maize variety.
US09173357B2
The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of tomato, ENHANCER or NUN 00001 TOR which is especially useful as tomato rootstock.
US09173353B2
An irrigation system including a diverter line is provided. The system includes drip irrigation lines, T-junctions interleaved between adjacent drip irrigation lines, each T-junction including a three-way line coupled to the diverter line, a check valve operably disposable between the three-way line and a downstream end of an upstream one of the drip irrigation lines to permit fluid flow in only a forward direction and a controllable valve operably disposable between the three-way line and an upstream end of a downstream one of the drip irrigation lines. The controllable valve is operable to permit fluid flow in only the forward direction and to prevent the fluid flow.
US09173351B1
A parallel-beams type collector comprises a flat porous platform which is enclosed by side walls. The flat porous platform is formed from a row of horizontally projected, parallel and elongated tines or thin rods. The debris is moved onto the porous platform as the collector is moved forward across the lawn with the elongated thin rods moving and penetrating through the grass. The collector is moved up along a curved path by a moving assembly. A flexible string is pulled via an array of rollers to move the collector up. The leaves and debris sitting in the collector can further be swept away by a sweeping assembly. Alternatively, a continuous endless chain is used to move the collector. A guide member is used to keep the collector in proper orientation during the collection of the debris.
US09173342B2
A storage tank sump arrangement for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes row units configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a storage tank configured to hold the flowable agricultural product. The storage tank includes a first sump and a second sump. Further, the first sump is positioned adjacent to a front portion of the storage tank relative to a direction of travel and the second sump is positioned adjacent to a rear portion of the storage tank relative to the direction of travel. The agricultural implement includes a pump in fluid communication with the first sump and the second sump. The pump is configured to pump the flowable agricultural product from the storage tank to the row units.
US09179570B2
The subject invention is directed to a new and useful line replaceable unit (LRU) including an LRU case defining an interior compartment for housing critical function circuit card assemblies and including a back plane wall and opposed interface wall. At least one critical function circuit card assembly (CCA) is housed within the LRU case. The critical function CCA includes an input output connector mounted in proximity to the interface wall, as well as a backplane connector. The LRU includes a backplane CCA operatively connected to each backplane connector of the at least one critical function CCA. The backplane CCA is configured and adapted to provide operative communication among multiple critical function CCA's. The critical function CCA's can be mounted to the LRU case proximate the interface wall and the backplane wall to be mechanically and electrically isolated from one another except for connections provided by the backplane CCA.
US09179560B2
Disclosure relates to a board block for vehicles. A housing forms an outer appearance of the board block of the present invention. The housing includes a housing body and a housing cover. A interior space is formed in the housing body, and a first connection unit is formed at one side of an upper end of the housing body. The housing cover covers the upper end of the housing body and the first connection unit.
US09179554B2
Example appliance displays having modular light guides and methods of assembling the same are disclosed. An example appliance display includes a printed circuit board having a side-fire light emitting diode attached to a surface of the printed circuit board, a frame having a plurality of heat stakes to operatively connect the printed circuit board to the frame, and a light guide inserted into an opening defined in the frame, wherein the light guide guides light emitted by the light emitting diode through the opening defined in the frame, and wherein the printed circuit board retains the light guide in the opening when the printed circuit board is heat staked to the frame.
US09179553B2
Embodiments disclosed herein include a method of manufacturing a multilayer wiring board that includes the steps of forming, on a support substrate, a laminate in which insulating layers and conductor layers are alternately laminated, accommodating a semiconductor chip in an opening of a prepreg which is formed on the surface of the laminate and that includes a sheet-like glass fiber impregnated with resin, and heating and pressurizing the surface of the prepreg in a state where the semiconductor chip is accommodated in the opening.
US09179542B2
Identifying marks are often used for authentication and tracking purposes with various types of articles, but they can sometimes be subject to replication or removal by an outside entity, such as a person or group having malicious intent. Carbon nanotubes and other carbon nanomaterials can be used to form identifying marks that are not visible to the naked eye, thereby making the marks more difficult for an outside entity to tamper with. Various articles can include an identifying mark that is not visible to the naked eye, the identifying mark containing a nanomaterial that includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes with a registered distribution of chiralities. The registered distribution of chiralities can be further tailored to increase the level of security provided by the mark.
US09179527B2
Provided is a light emitting diode (LED) driver. The LED driver includes a microcontroller for setting a level of an output current of the driver. The driver is configured to receive a prefix as an input, the prefix instructing the microcontroller to enter a programming mode. The microcontroller is responsive to a level signal representative of the level of the output current during the programming mode.
US09179526B2
The present invention relates to an illumination control system comprising a plurality of outdoor luminaries and a motorized service vehicle. Each luminaire comprises a controllable light source producing a light illuminance. The motorized service vehicle comprises a light sensor configured to detect the light illuminance generated by the controllable light source at the motorized service vehicle. The motorized service vehicle computes light illuminance data based on the detected light illuminance and transmits these to the outdoor luminaire through a wireless communication link or stores the light illuminance data on a data recording device of the motorized service vehicle. The outdoor luminaire receives may use the light illuminance data to set or adjust a light illuminance of the controllable light source.
US09179522B2
An illumination system and method is disclosed. In one example, the illumination system comprises a light source, a controller controlling the power output of the light source, and a light sensor wirelessly communicating with the controller. In a normal mode, the controller controls the light source such that the light level remains substantially constant. In a change mode, the controller controls the light source such that the light level is gradually changed with a predetermined change rate so as to decrease a deviation from a target level. The controller switches from the normal mode to the change mode on the basis of input signals received from the light sensor. The light sensor measures a light level, and decides whether or not to communicate a signal to the controller. The light sensor refrains from transmitting a signal when receiving the signal does not cause the controller to change its control behavior.
US09179515B2
A driver circuit driving an LED backlight of a liquid crystal display device includes a determination unit and a drive current output unit that receives a luminance adjustment signal from the determination unit and supplies a drive current to the LED backlight. The determination unit determines whether or not a duty ratio of a PWM signal input from a control circuit satisfies a predetermined value set in advance and outputs a luminance adjustment signal set in advance in a case where the input of the PWM signal does not reach the predetermined value and outputs a luminance adjustment signal corresponding to the PWM signal input from the control circuit in a case where the input of the PWM signal is the predetermined value or more.
US09179513B2
An LED lighting system is provided for connection to a variable power source providing input power, the LED lighting system having at least one power analyzing and processing circuitry connecting to the variable power source, and being configured to identify one or more characteristics of the input power, where the characteristics are selected from amplitude, frequency and pulse width of the input power, compare one or more of the characteristics of the input power to preset control criteria either in hardware or software or both to yield a comparison result, and then control the current control circuitry according to the comparison result.
US09179511B2
A light-emitting device includes a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element. The first light-emitting element has a first LED, and emits a first spectrum. The second light-emitting element has a second LED and a constant voltage element connected in series, and emits a second spectrum different from the first spectrum. The second light-emitting element is connected in parallel to the first light-emitting element. First light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element are configured such that their lines indicating the forward current-forward voltage characteristics cross each other. This enables to change spectral distribution emitted from the light-emitting device just by changing power supplied from a single power circuit.
US09179510B2
In various embodiments, lighting systems include an electrically insulating carrier having a plurality of conductive elements disposed thereon, a light-emitting array, and at least one power source. The light-emitting array is disposed over the carrier and includes a plurality of light-emitting strings, each light-emitting string comprising a plurality of electrically connected light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Each LED has at least two electrical contacts, and each electrical contact is electrically connected to a conductive element by a conductive adhesive and/or a solder. The power source provides power to the light-emitting strings.
US09179506B2
Provided herein are a door choke and a cooking apparatus including the same. The cooking apparatus includes a front plate forming the front surface of a cavity, a door to open and close the cavity, and a door choke including a first attachment member attached to the door and including at least two bent parts and a second attachment member attached to the door and including at least two bent parts so as to be separated from the first attachment member to form a space, and a bending direction of the first attachment member and a bending direction of the second attachment member are opposite to each other. Thereby, effective electromagnetic interference shielding is achieved.
US09179493B1
A medical cart includes an interface assembly including a display, a speaker, a camera and a microphone. The interface assembly is operatively connected to an enclosure at a connecting portion that is operable to reposition the interface assembly from a transporting configuration in which the interface assembly is disposed inside the enclosure to a deployed configuration in which the interface assembly is disposed outside of the enclosure. The medical cart also includes a set of wheels operably connected to at least one of the enclosure or a pivoting assembly operable to pivot from the transporting configuration in which only the set of wheels makes contact with a transporting surface to the deployed configuration in which a portion of the cart in addition to the set of wheels makes contact with the transporting surface for stabilizing the cart in the deployed configuration.
US09179488B2
A method of re-establishing a cellular connection between a vehicle telematics unit and a wireless carrier system includes detecting a loss of cellular connection between a vehicle telematics unit and a wireless carrier system; accessing a technology order table (TOT) that orders a plurality of radio access technologies (RATs) capable of use at the vehicle telematics unit according to desirability; attempting to re-establish the cellular connection by: determining the RAT used by the vehicle telematics unit when the loss of cellular connection was detected; searching the TOT to locate a less desirable RAT relative to the RAT used by the vehicle telematics unit when the loss of cellular connection was detected; attempting to connect with the wireless carrier system using the less desirable RAT and a group of PLMNs that is limited to home and home-equivalent PLMNs; and if that attempt fails, attempting to connect with the wireless carrier system by iterating through each of the RATs ordered in the TOT beginning with a next less desirable RAT and including in the iteration the RAT used by the vehicle telematics unit when the loss of cellular connection was detected, wherein step (c4) uses all non-forbidden PLMNs.
US09179477B2
A method and system reduce interference between overlapping first and second wireless LAN cells in a medium. Each cell includes a respective plurality of member stations and there is at least one overlapped station occupying both cells. An inter-cell contention-free period value is assigned to a first access point station in the first cell, associated with an accessing order in the medium for member stations in the first and second cells. The access point transmits a beacon packet containing the inter-cell contention-free period value, which is intercepted at the overlapped station. The overlapped station forwards the inter-cell contention-free period value to member stations in the second cell. A second access point in the second cell can then delay transmissions by member stations in the second cell until after the inter-cell contention-free period expires.
US09179475B2
Methods and apparatus for forming and maintaining an ad hoc mesh network suitable for reliable voice and data communications in underground, industrial and other hazardous environments. This invention includes support for cooperative negotiation of dedicated transmission bandwidth for all fixed network nodes, determination of network time synchronization without a pre-determined time master, discovery and merging of adjacent ad hoc mesh networks, and routing techniques for voice, data and network status packets which react instantaneously to network topology changes. Furthermore this invention provides a reliable communication network for mobile nodes carried by personnel and sensor nodes that are fixed or mobile that supports voice, data and tracking/situation awareness. A current application for this technology is a coal mine communication system with an operations center to dispatch, monitor and control coal mine operation including communication and location of mine personnel, and environmental conditions in the mine.
US09179468B2
According to the disclosure of the present invention, provided is a method for operating a relay node (RN) to avoid an inter-cell interference (ICI) in a wireless access system. The method includes: overhearing the downlink signal transmitted by a plurality of base stations to terminals within the coverage area of each base station in an nth subframe; decoding the overheard downlink signal from an n+1th subframe to an n+3th subframe and sharing the RN through the plurality of base stations; overhearing the reply to the downlink signal transmitted by the terminals to each base station in an n+4th subframe; reallocating a resource block allocated to the terminals in the nth subframe if there is at least one negative reply NACK in the replies to the downlink signal transmitted by the terminals; and transmitting control information representing the reallocated resource block to each base station.
US09179453B2
An apparatus and method are provided for transmitting a PUSCH and a DM RS associated with transmission of the PUSCH. The method includes receiving, by a UE, a DCI format including IEs over PDCCHs based on a UE ID, where the IEs include RA and RSC information indicating a combination of a CS and an OCC for the DM RS; identifying the CS and the OCC for the DM RS using the RSC information; acquiring a DM RS sequence based on the identified CS, the identified OCC, and a CAZAC-based sequence; mapping the DM RS sequence to sub-carriers, based on the RA; performing an IFT operation based on the DM RS sequence and the sub-carriers; generating a signal for transmitting on the PUSCH by adding a CP to a result of the IFT operation; and transmitting the signal on the PUSCH.
US09179452B2
The present invention relates to a method for configuring and transmitting an HARQ ACK/NACK signal by bundling said signal about a component carrier wave of a downlink subframe linked with an uplink subframe transmitting an HARQ ACK/NACK signal on PUCCH format 3. More particularly, the method comprises the steps of: determining a mode for bundling an HARQ ACK/NACK signal; and configuring the bundled HARQ ACK/NACK signal according to the determined bundling mode, wherein in the step of determining the bundling mode, all the component carriers of the downlink subframe transmitting the HARQ ACK/NACK signal to an uplink subframe are bundled when the downlink channel is in a worse state than the predetermined reference state, and some of the component carriers of the downlink subframe transmitting the HARQ ACK/NACK signal to an uplink subframe are bundled when the downlink channel is not in a worse state.
US09179450B2
A method and an apparatus for managing Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) resources in a wireless communication system are provided. A method of a base station for managing SRS resources includes receiving an allocation of SRS resources from a system controller, allocating SRS resources to connected terminals that are connected to the BS, determining a number of residual SRS resources varying according to the number of connected terminals, and transmitting one of an additional SRS resource allocation request and an allocated SRS resource return request to the system controller according to the number of residual SRS resources.
US09179446B2
In a communications system, one or more mobile devices may be programmed through the use of an assigned channel of a logical channel. For example, a broadcast control channel (BCCH) transmission may be received by one or more mobile devices, the transmission comprising a set of instructions to program the mobile devices. The BCCH transmission may be used to program certain mobile devices, such as a type or brand of device, or mobile devices having certain features, such as call waiting. The mobile device may be configured to accept a transmission, such as a packet in a GPRS network, on one channel while rejecting a transmission on other channels. Further, the mobile device may be reconfigured to accept additional channel transmissions or reject currently approved channel transmissions.
US09179444B2
The invention relates to apparatuses, methods, systems, computer programs, computer program products and computer-readable media.
US09179435B2
Embodiments analyze crowd-sourced data to identify a moved or moving beacon. The crowd-sourced data involving a particular beacon is filtered based on a cluster start time associated with the beacon. A clustering analysis groups the filtered crowd-sourced data for the beacon into a plurality of clusters based on spatial distance. Timestamps associated with the crowd-sourced data in the clusters are compared to select one of the clusters. The crowd-sourced data associated with the selected cluster is used to determine position information for the moved beacon. The cluster start time for the beacon is adjusted based on the earliest timestamp associated with the positioned observations corresponding to the selected cluster. Adjusting the cluster start time removes from a subsequent analysis the positioned observations associated with one or more prior positions of the beacon.
US09179432B2
For operating a telecommunications network for mobile telecommunication, a network register is used holding identifiers of mobile terminals for communication via the telecommunications network and network-related user data of the terminals. This the network register is formed from a peer-to-peer network having a multiplicity of decentralized register nodes that are networked with one another and are each associated with one geographic region. Hash tables held in the register nodes hold the identifiers of the terminals as hash values, and user data is stored associated with these hash values.
US09179421B2
Methods and apparatuses are provided for determining a transmission power cap for one or more devices based at least in part on pathloss measurements to one or more access points received from the one or more devices. A common transmission power cap can also be computed for assigning to devices communicating with an access point, and the transmission power cap for a given device can be adjusted when the transmission power is at or a threshold level from the common power cap to conserve signaling in the wireless network. Adjustment of the transmission power cap can additionally or alternatively be based on a received power at an access point related to signals from the device, an interference report from one or more access points, and/or the like.
US09179420B2
A wireless device receives a control command initiating a random access process for a secondary cell. The wireless device transmits a random access preamble on random access resources of the secondary cell. The wireless device aborts the random access process if the secondary cell is deactivated before the wireless device receives a random access response.
US09179418B2
Aspects of the methods and apparatus relate to improving the overall decision quality of the Fractional-Dedicated Physical Channel (F-DPCH) channel. One aspect of the methods and apparatus relates to detecting bad channel conditions of a serving base station and improving the serving base station F-DPCH decoding performance in such bad conditions based on the serving base station signal-to interference ratio (SIR) estimation. Another aspect of the methods and apparatus relate to improving the overall decision quality of the F-DPCH channel in soft handover (HO) scenarios by increasing the non-serving base station F-DPCH channel rejections thresholds based on certain SIR estimations. The F-DPCH channel rejections thresholds are based on either the SIR of the non-serving base station, or a difference between non-serving base station SIR and serving base station SIR.
US09179417B2
The present invention relate to a method, an apparatus, and a terminal for wireless network connection. The method includes: acquiring lowest transmit power of a communication terminal that establishes connection with a wireless network access point, where the lowest transmit power is minimum transmit power that can ensure connection and communication between the communication terminal and the wireless network access point; and adjusting and determining transmit power of the communication terminal according to the lowest transmit power. With the implementation of the embodiments of the present invention, the communication terminal automatically reduces transmit power without affecting normal network connection, so that manual setting by users is avoided, electrical energy is saved, radiation is reduced, and convenient network access by users is ensured.
US09179409B2
Methods, systems, and devices for managing wireless communications in a machine-to-machine (M2M) wireless Wide Area Network (WAN). An operating frequency band of the M2M wireless WAN is divided into at least a first frequency channel and a second frequency channel. The first and second frequency channels being used for communications on a reverse link. First channel status information and second channel status information are broadcasted to one or more M2M devices. The first channel status information indicating a status of the first frequency channel. The second channel status information indicating a status of the second frequency channel.
US09179407B2
Systems and methods are provided that may reduce unnecessary resource consumption and network traffic in a communications network, such as an LTE network. Initiating a tracking area update (TAU) procedure may be avoided in instances where a discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle length chosen by a user equipment (UE) would be ignored in accordance with standards governing paging in the communications networks. To determine whether or not a TAU should be initiated, three parameters may be considered. A first parameter may be the DRX cycle length that is already configured in a mobility management entity (MME). A second parameter may be a DRX cycle length chosen by the UE that the UE wishes to indicate to the MME. A third parameter may be a DRX cycle length that is broadcast by an evolved Node B serving a cell in which the UE is operating.
US09179404B2
Aspects of the methods and apparatus relate to performing user equipment (UE) only discontinuous transmission (DTX) smart blanking. One aspect of the methods and apparatus include maintaining a list of voice configurations that would trigger user equipment (UE) discontinuous transmission (DTX). Further, the aspect includes receiving a current voice configuration for the UE from a network, and determining whether the current voice configuration of the UE received from the network falls within the list of voice configurations that would trigger UE DTX. Further, the aspect includes enabling uplink UE DTX at the UE when the current voice configuration of a UE falls within the list of voice configurations.
US09179402B2
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication at a fourth generation (4G) capable user equipment (UE) include determining, when the 4G capable UE does not report a 4G capability but reports one or more other radio access technology (RAT) capabilities, a 4G service change possibility for the 4G capable UE, performing a 4G network search and measurement procedure in response to the determination of the 4G service change possibility, and performing a combined evolved packet system/circuit switched (EPS/CS) attach attempt procedure when the 4G network search and measurement procedure indicates a 4G network availability.
