A multidirectional wheel for traversing a surface that includes a hub having a first axial direction of rotation. A plurality of rollers are disposed around an outer periphery of the hub. The rollers are mounted for rotation in a second axial direction that is at an angle to the first axial direction. The wheel includes at least one magnet that is mounted to the hub. The hub is made of a magnetically inducible material that concentrates the flux of the at least one magnet toward the surface being traversed. A method for traversing a magnetically inducible surface using the multidirectional wheel is further provided.

There is described a printing machine for printing sheets, in particular sheets for the production of securities, banknotes, passports, ID cards and other valuable documents, comprising at least a sheet feeder, a printing unit, a delivery unit with delivery piles for the printed sheets and a sheet transport system for transporting the printed sheets along a transporting path from the printing unit to the delivery piles. The printing machine further comprises a laser perforating unit with at least one laser head disposed along the transporting path of the sheet transport system for perforating the printed sheets, and a first aspiration unit to maintain the printed sheets against an aspiration surface during perforation by said laser perforating unit.

An untethered, arbitrary-surface printing device includes a housing, a print head, positioning means, locomotive means, and sensors configured to perform multi-pass high-precision printing (i.e. at least 300 dots per inch) on nearly any surface texture.

An elastic roller includes: a roller shaft; and an elastic member. The elastic roller includes an inner layer side elastic member, and a coating layer. The inner layer side elastic member includes a base layer and an intermediate layer located from the roller shaft in this order. The base and intermediate layers have a rubber hardness of 30 to 80 degrees that is measured by a durometer type A in accordance with the standard of JIS K 6253. The rubber hardness of the base layer is more than that of the intermediate layer. The coating layer is made of a silicone resin, and has a thickness of 10 to 100 μm. The silicone resin has a hardness of 20 degrees or less that is measured using a spring-based Asker C type in accordance with SRIS 0101 standard. The inner layer side elastic member has a plurality of internal grooves along a circumferential direction. Each of the internal grooves has a width of 25 to 1,300 μm, and has a depth of 25 to 500 μm. Each of the internal grooves has a V-shaped in cross section and has a groove angle of 50 to 120 degrees.

A convection dryer device is disclosed. The convection dryer uses a first fan speed before the leading edge of media reaches a first location in a drying area and a second fan speed, faster than the first fan speed, after the leading edge of media reaches first location.

Computerized systems and computer-implemented methods that enable printing on a large solid surface, such as a floor, wall, or ceiling using mobile printer heads guided by coded light. In one implementation, a user points a projector onto the printing surface to project a sequence of images with a unique temporal identifier (ID) for each pixel, wherein different space partitions are associated with different pixel IDs. The mechanical transmissions of the conventional printers are replaced with the aforesaid coded light used in conjunction with small mobile printer heads equipped with light sensors, while the coded light is used to guide the printer heads' movements during the printing process.

Ink port adapters for multi-color inkjet heads. In one embodiment, the ink port adapter includes two hose fittings for connecting to hoses, and four openings that align with four ink ports of a four-color inkjet head. The adapter includes one ink path that connects one of the hose fittings to two of the openings, and another ink path that connects the other hose fitting to the other two openings. The adapter therefore converts the four-color inkjet head into a two-color inkjet head.

A liquid jetting apparatus includes: a head unit; a cap; a cap lifter moving the cap between a capping position in which the cap makes contact with the head unit and an uncapping position in which the cap is separated from the head unit; a motor; a driven device; a first transmission gear transmitting power of the motor to the cap movement device; a second transmission gear transmitting the power of the motor to the driven device; and a movement gear moving between a position at which the movement gear engages with the first transmission gear and a position at which the movement gear engages with the second transmission gear depending on a rotation direction of the motor. At least one of the first transmission gear and the movement gear is made of a synthetic resin material containing glass fiber.

A liquid ejecting apparatus includes an ejecting unit that includes a piezoelectric element and ejects liquid by driving the piezoelectric element; a first drive circuit that is mounted on a front surface of a circuit substrate and generates a first drive signal; and a second drive circuit that is mounted on a rear surface of the circuit substrate and generates a second drive signal. The first drive circuit includes a first control circuit which is integrated into a first integrated circuit. The second drive circuit includes a second control circuit which is integrated into a second integrated circuit. The first integrated circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The second integrated circuit includes a third terminal and a fourth terminal. A distance between the first terminal and the third terminal is shorter than a distance between the first terminal and the fourth terminal.

The present invention pertains to a device for producing printed products comprising an arrangement of cooperating rollers that are arranged parallel to one another, wherein at least the gap width between the rollers of one roller pair is adjustable. For this purpose, one roller of the pair is pivotably mounted by means of a pivot arm, wherein a driver arranged on the pivot arm displaces a linearly movable reference element by means of a sliding block guide such that the position of this reference element corresponds to the adjusted gap width. The sliding block guide is preferably realized in such a way that the gap width and the position of the reference element are proportionally correlated.

A platen is disclosed. In an example, the platen may include a shirtboard configured to receive a garment. A backing is coupled to the shirtboard. The backing and the shirtboard are compressible to selectively compress the shirtboard against the backing during a printing operation. An example method of printing on a garment includes threading a garment onto a board so that the board is wearing the garment, supporting the board against a backing during compression, and printing on the garment. In an example, a fabric of the garment is pretreated, heat-pressed, and printed on, all without removing the garment from the board.

An adhesive composition that improves structural integrity and insulative properties when applied to a cellulosic substrate is provided. The adhesive composition includes a plurality of microspheres and an emulsion-based polymer that has (i) an elastic modulus greater than 0.5 MPa in the range temperature range of 70° C. to 110° C.; (ii) an absolute log(E)/T slope of less than 0.05 in the range temperature range of 70° C. to 110° C.; and (iii) a tan d value less than 0.6 at 90° C.

The present invention provides a mold release film including a resin layer provided on one surface of a polyester film, wherein the resin layer includes 100 parts by mass of a polypropylene-based modified polyolefin resin with the proportion of a modifying component of 1 to 10% by mass and 1 to 50 parts by mass of a cross-linking agent; the peel strength between the resin layer and a pressure-sensitive adhesive measured by bonding a rubber-based pressure-sensitive adhesive to the resin layer exceeds 3.0 N/cm; and the residual adhesion rate of a pressure-sensitive adhesive after bonding an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive to the resin layer is 80% or more.

Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel are described. A method is provided for manufacturing a cushioning element for sports apparel from randomly arranged particles of an expanded material. The method includes positioning a functional element within a mold and loading the mold with the particles of the expanded material, wherein the loading occurs through at least two openings within the mold and/or wherein the loading occurs between different movable parts of the mold.

Provided is a device and method for butt-splicing strip members for tire components, having a first clamp and a second clamp arranged for clamping a first end of a first strip member and a second end of a second strip member, respectively, wherein at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp is movable along a butt-splice direction into a butt-splicing position opposite to the other of the first clamp and the second clamp for butt-splicing the ends, wherein the first clamp includes a first upper clamp member and a first lower clamp member, wherein the second clamp includes a second upper clamp member and a second lower clamp member, wherein the first lower clamp member projects beyond the first upper clamp member over a first overlap distance and wherein the second upper clamp member projects beyond the second lower clamp member over a second overlap distance.

A method and apparatus for applying sealant. The apparatus may comprise a shaping portion, a centering portion, and a support system. The shaping portion may have a cavity configured to receive a fastener system and receive a sealant. The centering portion may have a channel configured to position the shaping portion in a desired position around the fastener system when the fastener system is received in the cavity. The support system may be configured to maintain the desired position of the apparatus.

A compaction device for use with an automated fiber placement machine includes multiple compaction rollers mounted for independent displacement on a supporting frame. The attitude of the compaction rollers change relative to each other when fiber tows are laid up at an angle over an edge of a tool in order to maintain compaction pressure on the tows and thereby reduce non-compacted areas of the tows.

A method for processing a three-dimensional (3D) mesh model includes receiving a 3D mesh model. One or more regions including a potential sharp cusp are automatically detected. The automatically detected one or more regions are displayed to a user and an active region of the 3D mesh model is defined by the user. Sphere fitting and Laplacian smoothing are applied to the designated active region to remove a sharp cusp therefrom and to obtain a modified 3D mesh model.

An ultrasonic welding system includes a motion control system that is coupled to and that causes controlled movement of an ultrasonic welding stack, in accordance with control inputs that are based on one or more control signals that are received from one or more sensors. The motion control system initiates a welding operation, subsequent to which an initial motion delay occurs until a predetermined condition is satisfied. Subsequently, in response to the predetermined condition being satisfied, the ultrasonic welding stack is caused to move in accordance with a weld profile. Subsequently, in response to an occurrence of a predetermined delay initiating condition, the ultrasonic welding stack is caused to stop motion and to maintain a stationary position. Subsequently, in response to an occurrence of a predetermined delay terminating condition, motion of the ultrasonic welding stack is resumed in accordance with the weld profile.

An apparatus (31) for correcting the bending of the molten resin includes a temperature-adjusting device (32) arranged surrounding an extrusion passage (12) for extruding the molten resin (8) of an extrusion die head (7) along the direction of extruding the molten resin (8), a measuring means (33) for measuring the horizontal position of the molten resin (8) extruded from an extrusion opening (20) of the extrusion passage (12), and a control means (34) for controlling the temperature-adjusting device (32) based on the results measured by the measuring means (33).

An improved actuator for a valve gate assembly is provided. The actuator includes a planetary assembly for converting rotation of an electrical motor into linear movement of a valve gate pin while also providing mechanical advantage to the motor against injection pressures from 15,000 psi to at least 25,000 psi. An internal cooling volume surrounds the motor for continuously cooling the motor with water, and an internal encoder converts an angular rotation within the actuator into an analog or digital signal for output to a controller.

Top and bottom ferrous carrier plates have a plurality of pairs of mating insert receptacles in full carrier plates and interlocked partial carrier plates. Pairs of mating nonferrous pre-molded inserts with mating mold cavities insert with a three axis floating fit into mating insert receptacles. Insert contact faces each comprising a flat surface portion having a plurality of mating alignment elements adapted for automatic precision alignment of the mating pair of pre-molded inserts. An injector structure comprising a plunger and pot bushing structure communicates with a pot on each top pre-molded insert. The bushing structure has a solidifying cavity and stripping structure so that retraction of the plunger separates the solidified material from the plunger face for automatic removal of surplus injected material after each molding cycle.

A method for making an extrusion coated perforated nonwoven web. The method comprises the steps of extruding a molten polyethylene coating onto a nonwoven web, and aperturing the molten polyethylene coating through heat and pneumatic pressure differential to create microperforations therein at a density of between about 35 and about 120 perforations per linear inch. The resulting microperforated nonwoven web is then thermomechanically perforated by feeding it through perforating rolls, at least one of which has raised protuberances to create macroperforations that extend though at least the polyethylene coating. The macroperforations have a density of between about 6 and about 35 perforations per linear inch. The perforated nonwoven web is useful as a topsheet for absorbent articles.

Methods and equipment for producing shaped food products having large amplitudes, for example, sliced, shredded, and/or strip-cut food products. The methods and equipment utilize a cutting apparatus having at least two sequential knives at different radial positions in reference to radial distances of the sequential knives in radial directions of the cutting apparatus. Each sequential knife has a corrugated shape comprising peaks and valleys, and the sequential knives are arranged to be in phase or out of phase alignment with each other.

One exemplary embodiment is a system comprising an operator input device structured to move in response to operator-applied force and to selectably output feedback force to the operator. A first computing system is structured to receive input from the operator input device and provide an output. A second computing system is structured to receive the output and provide a robot control command subject to a force constraint. An industrial robot system is in operative communication with the second computing system and comprises a robotic arm structured to move in response to the command. The second computing system is structured process the output to impose a force constraint using a dual threshold hysteresis control. The first computing system is structured to apply a feedback force to the operator input device correlated to force associated with the industrial robot system.

A force detector provided between a robot arm and a robot hand detects forces Fx, Fy, and Fz. A robot controller performs a filtering process for the forces Fx and Fy by a first low-pass filter of a cutoff frequency Fc1, moves the robot hand so that the forces Fx and Fy become smaller, corrects a trajectory of the robot arm, performs a filtering process for the force Fz by a second low-pass filter of a cutoff frequency Fc2 having a frequency higher than the cutoff frequency Fc1, performs a threshold value determination for the force Fz, and stops the movement of the robot hand when the force Fz exceeds a threshold value during a fitting operation.

Provided is an operation command generation device including: an execution order determination unit configured to determine, based on respective arrangement positions of a plurality of process symbols each representing a process for a process subject on a protocol chart including the plurality of process symbols, an execution order of the plurality of process symbols; and a process symbol conversion unit configured to respectively convert the plurality of process symbols into jobs for a process system including at least a robot so that processes represented by the plurality of process symbols are executed in the execution order determined by the execution order determination unit.

A method and apparatus for pulling multiple joints of pie which comprises a pulling section and a pulled section, the method and apparatus working while the joints of pipe are below grade and capable of pulling multiple joints of pipe without relocating the pulling section.

A clamping device has an actuator that moves linearly and is actuated by a drive. A pivoting clamping element is operatively connected, via a toggle lever mechanism, with the actuator. The toggle lever mechanism includes a drive-side adapter and a hand lever-side adapter. The drive side adapter and hand lever side adapter can be adjusted relative to one another to define an opening angle of the clamping element. One of the adapters has a profiled bar extending in a direction of actuation. The other adapter has an insertion region to accommodate the bar. A fixing element is provided in one of the adaptors to define the location of the adapters relative to one another. The fixing element can be clamped against the profiled bar and also against an insertion region.

A backing plate for abrasive flap wheels, in which openings are configures as slots, which are formed in the outer flange and which are radially open on its outer edge.

A coupling mechanism which enables a rotating body to follow an undulation of a polishing surface without generating flutter or vibration of the rotating body, and can finely control a load on the rotating body on a polishing surface in a load range which is smaller than the gravity of rotating body is disclosed. The coupling mechanism includes an upper spherical bearing and a lower spherical bearing disposed between a drive shaft and the rotating body. The upper spherical bearing has a first concave contact surface and a second convex contact surface which are in contact with each other, and the lower spherical bearing has a third concave contact surface and a fourth convex contact surface which are in contact with each other. The first concave contact surface and the second convex contact surface are located above the third concave contact surface and the fourth convex contact surface. The first concave contact surface, the second convex contact surface, the third concave contact surface, the fourth convex contact surface are arranged concentrically.

The present disclosure describes and teaches a drill safety system including a magnetic unit, a vacuum unit, and an improved hole saw drill set. The various parts of the drill safety system may be used individually or in combination with one another. The user may use the magnetic unit to surround the drilling site so that metal drill shavings on the drill surface may be collected by the magnetic unit. In addition, the magnetic unit includes a flippable top mechanism, allowing convenient disposal of the debris. The vacuum unit is fitted to the inner surface of the drilling site, collecting debris that fall through. The improved hole saw prevents over-penetrating by the drill, reducing the likelihood of damaging equipments underneath the drill site. This makes the drill particularly suitable for drilling holes during electrical work.

The present invention relates to a blend of at least one boron source and at least one silicon source, wherein the blend comprises boron and silicon in a weight ratio boron to silicon within a range from about 5:100 to about 2:1, wherein silicon and boron are present in the blend in at least 25 wt %, and wherein the at least one boron source and the at least one silicon source are oxygen free except for inevitable amounts of contaminating oxygen, and wherein the blend is a mechanical blend of powders, and wherein particles in the powders have an average particle size less than 250 μm. The present invention relates further to a composition comprising the blend a substrate applied with the blend, a method for providing a brazed product, and uses.

A kit is disclosed for cutting differing sized pipes internally. The kit includes a pipe cutting apparatus, and a plurality of assemblies. The pipe cutting apparatus includes at least one drive member. The plurality of assemblies, attachable to the pipe cutting apparatus, each include: (1) at least one feed member to extend at least one cutting member against a pipe internally and to retract the at least one cutting member from the pipe internally, the at least one drive member to rotate the at least one cutting member against the pipe internally; or (2) at least one clamping member to secure the pipe cutting apparatus to the pipe internally. Each of the plurality of assemblies differ in size so that differing sized pipes can be cut internally by the pipe cutting apparatus by attaching the appropriately sized assembly to the pipe cutting apparatus.

A cutting tool for face milling includes insert pockets for the fixing of cutting insert. The cutting inserts can be fixed in the insert pockets, wherein the cutting inserts and insert pockets are designed such that, when the cutting inserts are fixed within the corresponding insert pocket, each cutting insert presents: a primary and a secondary cutting edge. The intersection between the primary and the secondary cutting edge of one cutting insert being axially inwardly and radially outwardly offset from the intersection between the primary and the secondary cutting edge of another cutting insert. A lead angle defined between the primary and the secondary cutting edges is less than 30°.

In an ultrasound-assisted method, in each of at least two sonotrode arms (8, 9) of a sonotrode (7) that is fixed in a protruding manner, said sonotrode arms being connected to each other by means of a respective joint (10) in each case, a respective ultrasonic wave that is transverse to the protrusion direction and that oscillates in a resonance mode is produced, wherein ultrasonic waves superposed in the at least one joint (10) and oscillating in the sonotrode arms (8, 9) of the joint (10) oscillate at a phase offset from each other, and the oscillation planes of the superposed ultrasonic waves are parallel to each other. An ultrasonic system suitable for carrying out the method comprises an ultrasound source (1), a sonotrode (7) protruding from a sonotrode retainer (6), wherein the sonotrode (7) has at least two sonotrode arms (8, 9), which are connected to each other by means of a respective joint (10) in each case and of which at least two produce different resonance modes under ultrasonic excitation, and ultrasonic waves superposed in the at least one joint (10) and oscillating in the sonotrode arms (8, 9) of the joint (10) oscillate at a phase offset from each other. The invention further relates to a corresponding sonotrode (7).

A surface-coated cutting tool includes a base material and a coating formed on the base material. The coating includes an α-Al2O3 layer containing a plurality of α-Al2O3 crystal grains. The α-Al2O3 layer includes: a first region made up of an edge ridgeline, a region A of a rake face, and a region B of a flank face; a second region which is a region of the rake face except for the region A and covered with the coating; and a third region which is a region of the flank face except for the region B. The α-Al2O3 layer satisfies a relation b−a>0.5, where a is an average value of a TC(006) in the first region in texture coefficient TC(hkl) and b is an average value of the TC(006) in the second region or the third region in texture coefficient TC(hkl).

A tail stock moving mechanism, in which a tail stock that holds a work with a predetermined pressure force is moved by a ball screw and in which control required for holding the work with the predetermined pressure force is implemented, is accomplished in a predetermined order wherein, the tall stock 1 holds a position of the work 5 and is supported by a ball screw 2, torque generated by a drive motor 3 that drives the ball screw 2 is detected, and when the torque reaches a predetermined reference value, then operation of a brake 4 to limit rotation of the ball screw 2 and cutting off of an input from a power supply to the drive motor 3 are performed.

A rotary slide moves blanks cyclically from stage to stage of a cutting and processing tool. Work pieces are transferred in and out of the tool, without moving the slide in and out of the tool. The slide has a plurality of transfer openings and a discharge opening. Individual processing stages, including a discharge stage, are designed as separate components that support one another. The stages are arranged about a rotating axis of the slide. The transfer openings and the discharge opening lie in a circular path that coincides with circular paths of active elements of the cutting stage, the processing stages and the discharge stage. The openings have a distance from one another that is identical to the distance of the active elements in the circular paths.

A hot press-forming method includes a forming step that clamps a steel sheet heated to a temperature not less than an austenite transformation temperature and press-forms the steel sheet into a desired shape by causing a forming concave of a die and a convex of a punch to be close to each other. A formed portion has side and top portions that merge. The side portion rises up from an inner circumferential edge of a flange portion having been clamped by the die and the blank holder. A cooling step cools a region of the steel sheet after the heating step has been completed and before the forming step is completed. The particular region is along an inter-edge area formed between an opening circumferential edge of the forming concave and a top circumferential edge of the forming convex before the forming step is completed.

A combination showerhead with dial button switching includes a fixing seat, two shower heads and a switch mechanism. The fixing seat has an inlet waterway and at least two diversion waterways. The switch mechanism includes a water diversion plate, a valve spool, a dial button and an elastic body. The water diversion plate is movably connected to the fixing seat and coupled to the inlet waterway and the diversion waterways, so that the plate rotates in a preset angle to switch the waterways. The valve spool is connected to the fixing seat and to the water diversion plate, so that the valve spool slides to drive the water diversion plate to rotate in a preset angle. The dial button has a cam portion and is rotatably connected to the fixing seat. The valve spool abuts against the periphery surface of the cam portion. The elastic body resets the valve spool.

A nozzle is configured to discharge a fluid containing a raw material of a catalytic layer to a substrate having first and second end faces and provided with holes each extending from the first end face to the second end face. The nozzle is provided with discharge ports each discharging the fluid toward the first end face of the substrate.

Particles are separated from a source viscoplastic fluid by flowing streams of the viscoplastic fluid and a destination fluid in parallel streamed relationship inside a rotating cylindrical annulus by using baffles to introduce each fluid independently at an inlet lower end of the annulus and for separating the upper streams consisting of an un-yielded source and destination flow proximate the radially innermost side of the annulus, a bulk axial flow in a more central region and a yielded layer destination flow adjacent the radial outermost side of the annulus which contains the particles that have separated. Inlet and outlet baffles are provided at each end of the vertically oriented device to maintain the flows discrete on entry and to maintain the separated flows discrete on exit so as to facilitate removal of the component flows from the fractionator.

A direct visual monitoring system for sensing the interior of a rotary mineral mill which comprises a monitoring unit, a main control unit and an operation and management unit wherein the monitoring unit is located inside a feed hopper and adjusted according to the physical characteristics of said feed hopper and in accordance with the dimensions of the mill, so as to allow for a direct view of the interior of the mill. The operating method comprises arranging inside a monitoring unit, a container of sensors for sensing the inner temperature thereof; determining the acceleration on the vertical axis, on the horizontal lateral axis and on the front horizontal axis, according to the time; obtaining two-dimensional images of the geometric conditions of the interior of the mill; obtaining two-dimensional thermal images of the interior of the mill and executing a detection of distance in one or more planes.

The impact shield (9, 10) carries a plurality of armor bodies (16) of a strongly wear resisting material. The armor bodies (16) are fixed horizontally in succession on a front side of the impact shield by a fixing element making it possible to detach them from the impact shield (9, 10) for their replacement. The impact shield (9, 10) is composed of a fixed part (21) connected to the frame (2), and a removable part (22) carrying the armor bodies (16) and making it possible to remove simultaneously all the armor bodies, fixed on the same, out of the grinding chamber (3). At least one such impact shield (9, 10) is arranged in a grinding chamber (3) of an impact grinding mill including a frame (2) further including a horizontal-axis rotor (6) provided with impactors (7) arranged regularly around its periphery.

A process for producing polymer-supported metal nanoparticles involves confinement of metal nanoparticles in polymeric nanotubes or nanosheets in an aqueous environment using hydrophobic reactants. Metal nanoparticles supported in the polymeric nanotubes or nanosheets are substantially monodisperse and have an average particle size of 4 nm or less. The polymer-supported metal nanoparticles are useful in fuel cells, sensors, bioanalysis, biological labeling or semi-conductors, especially as catalysts.

Hydroxypropionic acid, hydroxypropionic acid derivatives, or mixtures thereof are dehydrated using a catalyst and a method to produce bio-acrylic acid, acrylic acid derivatives, or mixtures thereof. A method to produce the dehydration catalyst is also provided.

Disclosed is a process for the conversion of acyclic C5 feedstock to a product comprising cyclic C5 compounds, such as for example, cyclopentadiene, and catalyst compositions for use in such process. The process comprising the steps of contacting said feedstock and, optionally, hydrogen under acyclic C5 conversion conditions in the presence of a catalyst composition to form said product. The catalyst composition comprises a Group 10 metal, and, optionally, a Group 11 metal, on a catalyst support with a Group 1 alkali metal silicate and/or a Group 2 alkaline earth metal silicate.

A method is provided for modifying a surface of a solid conducting material, which includes applying a potential difference between this surface and a surface of another conducting solid material positioned facing it, and wherein, simultaneously, the surface (S) is put into contact with a liquid medium comprising in solution triarylamines (I): while subjecting these triarylamines (I) to electromagnetic radiation, at least partly converting them at into triarylammonium radicals. Also provided is a conducting device which includes two conducting metal materials, the surfaces of which, (S) and (S′) respectively, are electrically interconnected through an organic material comprising conducting fibrillar organic supramolecular species comprising an association of triarylamines of formula (I).

A hydrogen producing reactor having a pellet core within a containment vessel. The vessel having an exit nozzle surrounding the pellet. At least one elastomeric winding surrounding the containment vessel; and, a water line to deliver fluid to the pellet. Whereby the elastomeric windings compress the containment vessel around the fuel pellet as it is used. Hydrogen and other products produced by the reactor within a cartridge is filtered with a clog-less filter and substantially pure hydrogen is output.

Systems and methods for producing, applying and evaluating coating compositions are disclosed. The amounts of components contained in the coating compositions may be monitored, along with processing parameters when the coating compositions are applied to various substrates. In certain embodiments, the characteristics of a produced sample coating are compared with the characteristics of a target or reference coating to determine if they are sufficiently matched.

Disclosed are copolymers suitable for hydrophilically modifying the surface of porous fluoropolymer supports, for example, a copolymer of the formula (I) or (II): wherein Rf, Rh, Ra, Y, m, and n are as described herein. Also disclosed are a method of preparing the copolymers, a method of hydrophilically modifying porous fluoropolymer supports, hydrophilic fluoropolymer porous membranes prepared from the polymers, and a method of filtering fluids through the porous membranes.

An object of the present invention is to provide a hollow fiber membrane with enhanced phosphorus-removing performance without impairing antithrombogenicity in order to inhibit in vivo accumulation of phosphate ions in living body that might cause bone metabolism disorders.The present inventors have found that a hollow fiber membrane having a specific membrane structure and a specific membrane composition possesses a very useful range for inner surface charges of the membrane. More particularly, the inventors have discovered that the above object can be achieved in a limited range in which the zeta potential on the inner surface of a hollow fiber membrane measured under given certain conditions is greater than −3.0 mV but less than 0 mV. This finding has led to the completion of the present invention.

Described herein are various embodiments of a reductant decomposition system. According to one representative embodiment, the reductant decomposition system includes an exhaust gas chamber including an inlet and outlet. The system also includes a first exhaust gas distribution component positioned within the chamber and communicable in exhaust gas receiving communication with the outlet. The first exhaust gas distribution component causes swirling exhaust gas flow patterns within the exhaust gas chamber. Additionally, the system includes a second exhaust gas distribution component positioned within the chamber and communicable in exhaust gas providing communication with the inlet. The second exhaust gas distribution component includes features that cause a swirling exhaust gas flow pattern within a space defined by the second exhaust gas distribution component. Further, the system includes a reductant injector coupled to the exhaust gas chamber. The reductant injector is communicable in reductant injecting communication with exhaust gas within the chamber.

An oxidation catalyst for treating an exhaust gas from a diesel engine and an exhaust system comprising the oxidation catalyst are described. The oxidation catalyst comprises: a first washcoat region for oxidizing carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HCs), wherein the first washcoat region comprises a first platinum group metal (PGM) and a first support material; a second washcoat region for oxidizing nitric oxide (NO), wherein the second washcoat region comprises platinum (Pt), manganese (Mn) and a second support material; and a substrate having an inlet end and an outlet end; wherein the second washcoat region is arranged to contact the exhaust gas at the outlet end of the substrate and after contact of the exhaust gas with the first washcoat region.

A method for cleaning an exhaust filter system is provided. The method includes removing ash from a first end of the exhaust particulate filter system using compressed air from the second end of the exhaust particulate filter system. The method also includes entraining particles from a second end of the exhaust particulate filter system using low pressure air. The method further includes blowing ash from the first end of the exhaust particulate filter system using compressed air from the second end of the exhaust particulate filter system. The method further includes removing the entrained particles from the second end of the exhaust particulate filter system.

Disclosed herein, among other things, is an improved filter media construction that comprises multiple layers for improved odor control that can be used for vacuum cleaner air filtration cartridge applications. The filter media comprises anti-microbial ePTFE HEPA filter media to prevent mold growth. The filter media may also be used for air cleaner filtration, central air filtration for home and industrial buildings (HVAC), cleanrooms, and microelectronic devices. In an embodiment, the improved filter media construction comprises at least a PTFE layer, a bi-component layer, and a base layer. In an embodiment the PTFE layer comprises ePTFE. In an embodiment, the bi-component layer comprises non-woven polyethylene/polyethylene terephthalate (PE/PET). In yet another embodiment, the base layer comprises activated carbon. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein.

A method of detecting clogging of a fluid filter is disclosed. The method includes measuring, at successive sampling instants, the pressure difference ΔP from upstream to downstream across the filter, calculating the first time derivative {ΔP}′ of the pressure difference ΔP at different instants, and then sending a clogging signal SC representative of the filter being clogged when the first derivative {ΔP}′ is equal to zero.

The cryogenic device for separating gas fraction from a liquefied natural gas flow carries out a two-stage separation of a gas fraction. The device includes a cylindrical housing provided with an inlet pipeline and an outlet pipeline, and a perforated partition arranged within the housing so as to face the outlet pipeline. The housing has two (upper and lower) portions of cylindrical shape that are connected to each other at an angle α of 135°-170°. There are two additional pipelines on the outside, one of them being used for pressure feed of a gas fraction after the first separation stage into the housing upper portion, and the other additional pipeline being used for extracting a gas fraction after the second separation stage into the gas cavity of a reservoir containing a cryogenic fuel.

A toy top includes a pinion gear and a locking portion. A launcher includes a rack belt and a holder. The rack belt includes an elastically deformable belt portion on which rack teeth capable of intermeshing with the pinion gear are formed. The toy top is set to the holder by intermeshing the rack teeth with the pinion gear. A rotational force is then applied to the toy top by pulling the rack belt to rotate the pinion gear. A space is formed in the holder, which is disposed in a vicinity of an intermeshing portion of the rack teeth and the pinion gear. The space allows deformation of the belt portion so that the belt portion previously attached to the holder does not interrupt setting the toy top to the holder.

A velocity sport boot system/velocity sport board for performing all-weather snowboarding activity. The velocity sport boot/board system includes a velocity sport boot assembly that provides a method of practicing snowboarding on a treadmill. The velocity sport boot assembly includes a boot liner, a boot body, and a plurality of ball bearing assemblies. The plurality of ball bearing assemblies further includes shock absorbing springs for user comfort on varying surfaces. An alternative embodiment of the velocity sport boot/board system uses a common snowboarding type boot affixed to a sport board assembly that includes a sport board base, coupling straps, and a plurality of ball bearing assemblies.

A system and method implemented as computer-based, computer-executable instructions employing a computation engine with digital storage provide a virtual environment with personalized user profiles specifically adapted to cognitive abilities of the user to train the user for specified tasks, herein called microtasks. The set of microtasks include achievement criteria. The virtual environment is controlled through an engine that automatically adapts the set of user-profile-specific microtasks to achieve a set of learning goals. The engine may calculate and/or measure a set of qualities associated with one or more sub-profiles associated with a given user based on game-type performance by that user either in isolation or among a group of users. Sub-profiles may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a personality profile, a neural link profile, and/or a motivation profile.

A haptic peripheral includes a housing, a deformable substrate coupled to the housing to be moveable thereto, and a smart material actuator coupled to a surface of the deformable substrate. The smart material actuator produces a force that deforms the deformable substrate relative to the housing in response to the control signal from a processor to thereby provide a haptic effect to a user of the haptic peripheral. The deformable substrate includes at least one user contact portion configured to contact the user and two opposing hinges. The deformable substrate also includes at least two stiff arms, each stiff arm extending between the user contact portion and one of the two opposing hinges. The stiff arms are relatively stiffer than the user contact portion and the hinges such that the deformable substrate is configured to increase the deformation of the deformable substrate relative to the housing.

A data communication restricted content providing device executes a program of game content, accepts operation input for the game content, controls the game content in accordance with operation input, generates, based on information of a changed progress condition of the game content, audio data indicating the progress condition, and plays back the audio data. An information processing device acquires an audio signal played back by the content providing device, extracts information of the progress condition from the audio signal, and outputs, to an external device, information of the progress condition.

A golf tee that includes a stake that has an insertion end and a crown for supporting a golf ball. The crown is supported by the stake opposite the insertion end. The crown has a plurality of external prongs, a cup portion defined between the plurality of external prongs, and at least one internal post that extends from a base of the cup portion. The internal post is disposed on the base of the cup portion between the plurality of external prongs.

A golf club head comprising a channel and a sliding weight that can be reversibly fixed at any point within the channel is disclosed herein. The channel preferably is disposed on the sole and extends from a heel side of the golf club head, around a rear side, and ends at a toe side of the golf club head. This channel is not constrained to a planar arc, but instead twists as it extends around the golf club head so that it follows the contours, and preserves the aesthetics, of the golf club head. The slidable weight comprises a base portion and a first cap, and a second cap that has the same dimensions as, and is interchangeable with, the first cap is disposed in a pocket in the sole proximate the face of the golf club head.

Disclosed herein are various embodiments of a golf club head having improved mass distribution characteristics. The golf club head includes a body and a face positioned at a forward portion of the body. The golf club head also includes one or more mass elements positioned at predetermined locations about the head. The mass elements assist in achieving a desired relationship between the moment of inertia about a center of gravity x-axis and the moment of inertia about a center of gravity z-axis.

A golf ball 2 has a large number of dimples 10 on a surface thereof. The contours of the dimples 10 are non-circular. A standard deviation of areas of the dimples 10 is equal to or less than 1.7 mm2. A ratio of a total area of the dimples 10 relative to a surface area of a phantom sphere of the golf ball 2 is equal to or greater than 80%. By comparting lines CS obtained by projecting sides of a regular dodecahedron, which is inscribed in the phantom sphere, onto the phantom sphere, a surface of the phantom sphere can be divided into 12 units Ut each of which meets the following mathematical formula (I): −2≦(Nt/12)−Nu≦2  (I), where Nt represents the total number of the dimples 10 and Nu represents the number of the dimples 10 on one unit.

In general, a computing device disposed in a cardio exercise machine receives data related to a fitness level of a user. The computing device selects a workout program based at least in part on the data. The operations of the cardio exercise machine are controlled based at least in part on the workout program. The computing device generates visual feedback based on at least one of the user's operation of the cardio exercise machine and the selected workout program measured against performance criteria.

Example embodiments relate to systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer readable media relating to a user interface, that may for example, receive and/or process physical activity data and allow interaction with the received information in novel implementations.

A variable-resistance exercise machine with wireless communication for smart device control and interactive software applications, comprising a wireless network interface that receives input from a user device and provides output to a user device; a plurality of moving surfaces that each provide an independent degree of resistance to movement based on received input and that detect movement and provide output to a user device based on the movement; and a plurality of rigid rails that provide a rigid support for a human user to grasp, and that provide attachment points for a user to affix a variety of devices.

An exercise machine inclination device for providing variable exercise intensity on an exercise machine by inclining the exercise machine. The exercise machine inclination device generally includes a base adapted for being positioned upon a floor, a support structure adapted for supporting an exercise machine, a hinge pivotally connecting the base and the support structure and an actuator connected between the base and the support structure, wherein the actuator adjusts an angle of the support structure.

A sprinkler assembly that includes a sprinkler frame, preferably formed from a plastic material and a deflector assembly that translates with respect to the sprinkler frame upon actuation of the sprinkler from an unactuated state. Moreover, the deflector assembly includes a first portion which axially translates relative to the sprinkler outlet in the actuated state of the sprinkler assembly and a second portion that remains fixed with respect to the sprinkler outlet to support a thermally responsive trigger and seal assembly in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly.

An apparatus for extinguishing a stovetop fire including a microwave positioned above the stove top, a compartment defined in the microwave; and a closure retained in a closed position on the microwave. A projection member is positioned within the compartment, the projection member retained in a retracted position while the closure is in the closed position. A supply of fire suppressant material is retained within the compartment when the closure is in the closed position, the supply of fire suppressant material including a second burner portion positioned against the projection member. A heat responsive actuator is disposed on the microwave. When the microwave is positioned over a first burner on the stovetop, and the fire actuates the heat responsive actuator, the closure moves to an open position and the projection member moves to an extended position, the projection member forcing the second burner portion toward a second burner.

A breathing system includes a tank for pressurized breathing gas, at least one regulator comprising a connection to which the tank is attachable, a universal air connector in fluid connection with the connection, and at least one light source, the light source, when illuminated, providing a guide to connect a connector in fluid connection with a secondary tank to the universal air connector to supply breathing gas to the tank.

Aminofunctional silicone compositions are disclosed comprising: an organopolysiloxane having an average formula of (CH3)3SiO[(CH3)2SiO]x [(CH3)RNSiO]ySi(CH3)3 with less than 1 weight % of nitrogen in its formula, where RN is an aminofunctional group, x is ≧100, y is ≧1 with the proviso the sum of x+y is from 250 to 350; wherein the viscosity of the silicone composition ranges from 1000 to 2500 cP at 25° C. and is measured by a Brookfield RV DV viscometer equipped with Pro CP 52 spindle at 20 RPM; and the aminofunctional silicone composition contains less than 0.1 weight % of D4 and less than 0.1 weight % D5 cyclic siloxanes.

The disclosed system for providing closed loop charging between an external charger and an implantable medical device such as an IPG involves the use of reflected impedance modulation, i.e., by measuring at the external charger reflections arising from modulating the impedance of the charging coil in the IPG. During charging, the charging coil in the IPG is periodically pulsed to modulate its impedance. The magnitude of the change in the coil voltage produced at the external charger ΔV as a result of these pulses is assessed and is used by the controller circuitry in the external charger as indicative of the coupling between the external charger and the IPG. The external charger adjusts its output power (e.g., Icharge) in accordance with the magnitude of ΔV, thus achieving closed loop charging without the need of telemetering coupling parameters from the IPG.

The invention is directed to a method of bonding a hermetically sealed electronics package to an electrode or a flexible circuit and the resulting electronics package, that is suitable for implantation in living tissue, such as for a retinal or cortical electrode array to enable restoration of sight to certain non-sighted individuals. The hermetically sealed electronics package is directly bonded to the flex circuit or electrode by electroplating a biocompatible material, such as platinum or gold, effectively forming a studbump connection, which bonds the flex circuit to the electronics package. The resulting electronic device is biocompatible and is suitable for long-term implantation in living tissue.

Devices and methods for single therapy pulse (STP) therapy for tachyarrythmia are disclosed. The STP therapy can be delivered from a far-field position to allow a “global” capture approach to pacing. Due to the global capture in STP, a series of pulses, which is indicative of conventional anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) delivered by transvenous systems, becomes unnecessary. One to four pulses at most are needed for STP, and after delivery of the one to four pulses, therapy delivery can be interrupted to determine whether the previously delivered therapy has been successful.

A system implantable in the coronary venous system, including a pacing lead with an anchoring screw is disclosed. The system includes a stimulation lead (10) for stimulating a left heart cavity of a patient, and a removable catheter (26) for implanting the lead. The lead (10) has at least one stimulation electrode having an anchoring screw (14) that penetrates into the epicardial tissue of the patient. The catheter tube (26) is a pre-shaped tube with two curvatures in the absence of stress. The two curvatures are inscribed in two separate surfaces (38, 40) for self-orientating the distal end of the catheter tube into the target vein and maintaining the axis of the anchoring screw towards the epicardial wall during the screwing of the lead head.

A valve is provided for controlling flow along a fluid line that includes an outer shell and an inner housing slidably disposed therein that includes connector threads surrounding a boss on one end and a passage through the boss. A backing member is coupled to the outer shell and has a sealing pin extending into the passage. The inner housing is movable helically relative to the outer shell from a closed position wherein a sealing pin engages an outlet opening at the distal end of the boss to seal the opening and an open position in which the inner housing is directed away from the sealing pin to open a fluid path through the valve. A torque limiter mechanism between the outer shell and inner housing resists movement from the valve closed position to the valve open position until a selected torque level is reached.

A system, method, and article for delivering an antimicrobial agent into the lumen of a trans-dermal catheter are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises an elongate member configured for insertion into a lumen of a catheter, and the elongate member containing an antimicrobial. In the alternative an antimicrobial agent can be placed on an interior surface of a retaining ring.

A method for visualization and/or administration of medication of and into the sphenopalatine/pterygopalatine recess of a patient is provided. The method includes providing a sphenocath and inserting a guidewire into the nostril of a patient to a target area proximate the sphenopalatine/pterygopalatine recess of the patient. The sphenocath is advanced over the guidewire and a catheter hub of the sphenocath is rotated relative to a sheath hub to conform to an anatomy of the patient's sphenopalatine/pterygopalatine recess, such that the distal end of the catheter tube is proximal to the target area. The sphenocath is then advanced relative to a sheath assembly so that the distal end of a sphenocath catheter tube extends from a sphenocath sheath tube distal end and bends along the guidewire. The guidewire is removed and contrast media, fluids, and/or medication is administered to the patient's sphenopalatine/pterygopalatine ganglion disposed within the sphenopalatine recess of the patient.

A nasal cannula assembly is disclosed having a face mount part, in use resting against a user's face, which includes at least one nasal prong capable of being fitted into a person's nares. The cannula assembly also includes a manifold part, in fluid communication with the face mount part, having a single horizontal side gases entry. In particular, this cannula assembly is for supplying heated, humidified gases to a patient suffering from COPD. A tie or lanyard is disclosed for use with a breathing assistance apparatus such as a nasal cannula, face or nasal mask or tracheostomy connector. The tie or lanyard transfers the weight of the conduits supplying gases to the breathing assistance apparatus from the breathing assistance apparatus and distributes it onto the neck of the patient.

In an aspect, a medication delivering injector which includes a housing having opposing proximal and distal ends and an accessible internal cavity for inserting and removing a medicament container such as a syringe. The injector is designed to hold and manipulate a medication delivery device such as a large variety of standard and non-standard medical syringes with fixed or attached needles, assembled such that centrally located is a cylinder containing a liquid medicament and attached either permanently or removably to the distal end of the cylinder, is a hypodermic needle or cannula in fluidic communication with the cylinder. The needle can be from one-half inches to one-and-one-half inches in length in the illustrated embodiment and other sizes are possible by changes in scale of the injector. At the proximal end of the cylinder is an opening with an inserted seal or bung with an attached rod thus constituting a plunger. The central medicament containing cylinder could also be a standard medicament cartridge. Hereinafter, both are referred to as a “syringe”. A lid or access cover which, in an open position permits insertion and removal of the syringe into/from the housing in a horizontal fashion thus providing ease of loading. The syringe is inserted with the needle end toward the distal end of the housing and the plunger toward the proximal end of the housing. A movable carriage is disposed in the proximal end of the housing and slides in the axial direction forwards and rearwards such that a syringe, whose proximal end is gripped by the carriage, so moves with the carriage such that the needle exits the housing at the distal end of the housing and pierces the tissue of the patient prior to dispensing of the medicament, and then is retracted after the medicament has been dispensed by retraction of the carriage. Attached to the carriage is an actuator which pushes on the syringe plunger causing the medicament contained within the syringe cylinder to be dispensed through the needle into the patient's tissue. In one embodiment suitable for both removable needle and fixed needle syringes, the proximal end of the syringe including the syringe finger flange is gripped by an elastomeric flange grip which resides within the carriage, while the syringe distal end resides in and is supported by a “syringe guide” which is attached to the carriage and thus moved with it. In another embodiment which is so made to accommodate syringes with removable needles and their safe disposal, the syringe flange at the proximal end of the cylinder is gripped by an elastomeric flange grip which resides in the carriage as described above, while the syringe distal end is supported by a needle which resides in a removable disposable needle shield. The needle guide is biased toward the carriage and thus, the syringe body is compressed and guided as the carriage moves forward and rearward.Both the movement of the carriage and the actuator are controlled by servo motors which are controlled by electronics and a microcontroller so operating such that speeds and accelerations are controlled smoothly and gently so as to avoid the stop/start motion of motors controlled by limit switches and simple electronics or the vibration and abruptness such as result from injectors powered by compressed springs or gas. Furthermore, the forces are adaptive to the loads imposed and the requirements necessary for the proper dispensation of medicaments with high viscosity or sensitivity to shear forces.The housing, approximately midway between proximal and distal ends, is affixed by a hinge such that the device can be folded in half to provide for a more compact device to be stored and transported.On the distal end of the housing are electrical sensor pads in communication with the microcontroller such that contact with the patient's skin and the angle at which the injector is held against the skin and the steadiness with which the injector is being held can be ascertained. Within the housing are a haptic vibrator and an audio speaker, both producing a vibration which is variable in pitch in such a manner that biofeedback is provided to the injector user as to the pressure, angle and steadiness with which they are holding the injector against the skin. This facilitates the action of injection oneself in the gluteus muscle where visual feedback isn't available to the patient.Multiplexed onto the electrical sensor pads, is a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) generator which is operational (at the user's choice) just before and during the injection to interrupt or quench the pain of tissue perforation often accompanied with needle injections.Contained on the surface of the housing such as on the access cover, is a display such that user menus, device state, directions, and battery charge status, etc. are displayed. Also contained on the surface of the housing, on the proximal half, are buttons which control the menus and selections that are shown on the display. These selections provide for the user to set such parameters as hypodermic insertion speed and medicament dispensing speeds, the preferred mode of user biofeedback which can include: speech mode (which can be accompanied by musical themes and ringtones, plus variable pitch tone and haptic vibration), MP3 mode (which has speech muted but includes musical ringtones and variable pitch tone and haptic vibration), and haptic mode (which is haptic vibration and audio tone queues needed for injector position biofeedback and readiness), plus mute mode (which provides no audio but the haptic vibration remains), and none, which provides no vibrational biofeedback, yet the display information always remains available.Also contained on the surface of the housing on the distal half, is an “injection initiate” button which causes the sequences required for performance of an injection to occur if said button is “enabled”.Contained within the electronics and its operating program is the ability to audibly play pre-recorded human speech in any language such that: directions in the form of consecutive steps which are required to load the medicament container (syringe) into the device, consecutive steps to perform an injection, steps to remove and properly dispose of parts, to alert of device status and menu choices, etc. can be played through the audio speaker. Also contained within the electronics and program is the ability to play musical ringtones as a distraction during the needle insertion and injection or when a scheduled injection alarm is reached, or calming human voice exhibiting bedside manner during the needle insertion and injection.Also contained within the electronics and software is a real-time clock-calendar which can store a patient's injection schedule and play a musical ringtone as an alarm as each scheduled injection becomes due. Also contained within the electronics and software are the ability to communicate with a personal computer through a USB port, which can also charge the injector's rechargeable battery. The battery in one embodiment, consists of three AAA batteries which can be rechargeable or non-rechargeable. The USB port in combination with an application running on the personal computer, is used to download the injection schedule into the real-time clock-calendar and to download ringtones and musical themes of the user's choice and to download foreign language sets for the pre-recorded human language feature.The injector can be further equipped with the capability to aspirate the tissue by drawing back on the plunger thus creating a vacuum into which fluids will flow. These fluids enter the syringe cylinder where they can be checked for the presence of blood by optical absorption in the red spectrum. This information is useful in the instances where intramuscular injections are to be given with drugs whose ‘Full Prescribing Information’ instructs the patient to aspirate and check for blood in the syringe which indicates that the puncture of a vein has occurred, and if so detected, to abort the injection and then re-inject into a different location.

A drive assembly for a drug delivery device comprises a rotation member being configured to be rotated in a first direction during setting of a dose of a drug and to be rotated in a second direction during delivery of the dose, a drive component being configured to follow rotational movement of the rotation member in the second direction during delivery of the dose and a stop member being configured to prevent rotational movement of the drive component in the first direction. The drive component comprises a first drive part and a second drive part, coupled to each other such that relative rotational movement of the first and second drive parts is prevented and relative axial movement is permitted.

A drug delivery device (100) for administering a low dose of a medicament includes a housing (111) and a drug reservoir (101) disposed in the housing (111). A needle (135) is connected to the drug reservoir (101). A pressure applying member (113) is movably connected to the housing (111) and is movable between first and second positions. The pressure applying member (113) does not apply pressure to the drug reservoir (101) in the first position and applies pressure to the drug reservoir (101) in the second position to dispense medicament stored in the drug reservoir (101). A method of administering a low dose of insulin to simulate a first-phase insulin response of a pancreas is also disclosed.

An infusion pump comprises an elastomeric hemispheric deformable rolling diaphragm, an external rigid housing with internal area no greater than that of the rolling diaphragm exterior, and a rigid cap structure which sealingly fastens the rim of the rolling diaphragm to the rim of the external housing. Thickness of the flexing wall of the diaphragm is tapered from rim to a region on the central axis to provide approximately constant pressure as the pump empties its contents. The rigid housing has an port in its center opposite its rim to allow insertion of fluid to roll the diaphragm inward, and to allow outflow of the stored pressurized fluid as desired. The housing and/or cap structure may have an external belt mounting fixture to facilitate donning the infusion pump for ambulatory users. The simplified design enables low manufacturing cost and hence single-use disposability.

A method for determining at least one parameter of an extracorporeal blood circuit includes the steps of filling an extracorporeal blood circuit, e.g., encompassing a medical functional device, a treatment device and/or a blood tube set, by introducing a fluid, and detecting a volume of the introduced fluid which is required for filling the extracorporeal blood circuit by a detection device. A control device, a treatment apparatus, a computer readable storage medium, a computer program product as well as a computer program are also described.

The present invention relates to an organizer for releasably accommodating components of blood tube sets for different extracorporeal blood treatment options, in particular for dialysis methods, by means of a blood treatment apparatus, as well as methods for manufacturing and preparing an organizer of the invention.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an implantable blood pump includes a housing defining a flow path, a rotor positioned within the flow path, and a motor including a stator, positioned outside of said housing, the stator including a length of silver wire, wherein the silver wire is not positioned within a hermetically sealed compartment once the blood pump is ready for implantation into a patient in need thereof. The present invention may also include a method of implanting the implantable blood pump including the step of implanting the blood pump within the patient and within or adjacent to the vasculature.

Method and Apparatus for predicting the volume of a component separated from a composite fluid by predicting the volume of the composite fluid from sensed pressure and predicting the volume of other separated components from sensed movement of the other components to collection bags.

An implantable medical device, which comprises a device substrate, a coating on the substrate which includes a drug which is highly soluble in water, and a protective layer which overlies the coating. The protective layer comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid and a lactic acid/glycolic acid copolymer having a weight average molecular weight of not more than 40,000.

Biodegradable antimicrobial films are provided that are solid at room temperature and substantially liquefy in situ after implantation into a mammal, such as a human patient. Methods of using the films to cover a medical device, such as a breast implant, prior to insertion into a subject are also provided.

A medicament containment device (106) is provided containing a medicament (114) and is associated with an implant, such as an orthopedic implant (102). The medicament containment device (106) can degrade upon exposure to energy, such as energy (112) from an energy source (110). The orthopedic implant (102), including the medicament containment device is implanted or inserted into an environment (100) such as a patient's body. The energy source (110) can be used outside the patient's body, but in proximity to the orthopedic implant (102), to apply energy (112) to the medicament containment device (106). Upon exposure to the energy (112), the medicament containment device (106) can degrade and release the medicament (114) into the environment (100). The medicament (114) can kill and/or disrupt bacterial cells (108) or other infectious cells that form in proximity to the orthopedic implant (102).

A biomaterial including a porous biocompatible structure having interconnected pores, wherein the pores have interior walls and are interconnected by passageways, the interior walls and passageways being coated with an osteoinductive aqueous demineralized bone extract solution, the aqueous demineralized bone extract solution including growth factors, proteins, a demineralized bone matrix and at least one of a weak acid and a guanidine hydrochloride, wherein the demineralized bone matrix is present per 100 g of the solution in an amount of from about 2 g to about 10 g.

An absorbent structure comprising a planar substrate, an auxiliary glue applied on the substrate, an absorbent material comprising from 80% to 100% by weight of superabsorbent particles deposited on the substrate on an absorbent material deposition area comprising a pattern of absorbent material land areas separated by absorbent material-free junction areas, wherein the deposition area can be notionally divided in eight deposition zones of equal length along the longitudinal direction. A fibrous thermoplastic adhesive layer immobilizes at least some of the absorbent material. The absorbent material is profiled along the longitudinal direction so that at least one of the eight deposition zones is a zone of lower absorbent material amount and the auxiliary glue is absent, or present at a level of at least 50% by weight lower than the average amount of auxiliary glue in at least one of these zones of lower absorbent material amount.

Provided is an air ventilating and sterilizing apparatus made of copper plates. The apparatus has a plurality of copper plates to form a plurality air passages for inflowing air, and another plurality of air passages for outflowing air, through which the air flows out and in, and heat is exchanged and air is sterilized while the air flows through the air passages defined by the copper plates each having protruded areas to enlarge the entire surfaces of the plate in contact with the air to maximize the heat exchanging and sterilizing effects of the apparatus.

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to devices and methods for sterilizing equipment. More particularly, one or more embodiments described in the present disclosure are directed to portable devices for sterilizing medical equipment in emergency situations. The sterilization devices and method of the present disclosure address an unmet need for sterilizing surgical equipment in a manner that is not only effective and time-efficient, but is also portable and reliable enough to use in emergency medical situations in remote locations where modern sterilization equipment is not available.

The present disclosure provides peptide constructs for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic applications, using pegylated peptides which exhibit specific binding for a target molecule of interest, such as a biomarker of a disease or disorder.

The present invention relates to compositions comprising growth hormone linked to extended recombinant polypeptide (XTEN), isolated nucleic acids encoding the compositions and vectors and host cells containing the same, and methods of making and using such compositions in treatment of growth hormone-related diseases, disorders, and conditions.

Described herein are compositions comprising a prostaglandin FP receptor agonist (PFPRA) compound and a fatty acid ester (e.g., isopropyl myristate), optionally comprising an ointment base such as a hydrocarbon base (e.g., petroleum jelly) and/or an organic alcohol (e.g., propylene glycol), that, when topically applied to the skin, locally delivers a therapeutically effective amount of the PFPRA compound to subcutaneous fat under the skin, and methods of preparation. The therapeutic effect is, for example, reduction of the subcutaneous fat under the skin. Further provided are methods of reducing body fat in a subject comprising topically administering the composition to the subject.

The present invention relates to processes for purifying high-quality recombinant Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein at high yields.

This invention relates to monovalent and multivalent, monospecific binding proteins and to multivalent, multispecific binding proteins. One embodiment of these binding proteins has one or more binding sites where each binding site binds with a target antigen or an epitope on a target antigen. Another embodiment of these binding proteins has two or more binding sites where each binding site has affinity towards different epitopes on a target antigen or has affinity towards either a target antigen or a hapten. The present invention further relates to recombinant vectors useful for the expression of these functional binding proteins in a host. More specifically, the present invention relates to the tumor-associated antigen binding protein designated RS7, and other EGP-1 binding-proteins. The invention further relates to humanized, human and chimeric RS7 antigen binding proteins, and the use of such binding proteins in diagnosis and therapy.

Embodiments of the invention are directed to fibrillar adjuvants. Epitopes assembled into nanofibers by a short synthetic fibrillization domain elicited high antibody titers in the absence of any adjuvant.

Disclosed is a microneedle coating composition comprising a Japanese encephalitis vaccine antigen, a basic amino acid, and an acid, wherein the mole number of the acid for one mole of the basic amino acid is larger than 1/(N+1) and less than 2, where N represents the valence of the acid.

One aspect provides an ultrapure, hypoallergenic sacrosidase. Another aspect provides a solution of sacrosidase in about 1:1 glycerol/water having an enzymatic activity of at least about 7500 IU/mL and a residual papain concentration that does not include an allergic reaction in a human patient when given a dose of about 2.0 mL/day.

The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for treatment of subjects having or at risk of cancer or other conditions. In some cases, the composition may include nitric oxide and/or peptides such as thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and/or GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone). The nitric oxide and/or peptide may be present within a first phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, the lecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other structures containing nitric oxide. The composition can take the form of a gel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc., that can be rubbed or sprayed onto the skin. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kits including such compositions, or the like.

The present invention relates to binding proteins specific for VEGF-A, in particular to recombinant binding proteins comprising a polyethylene glycol moiety and a binding domain, which inhibits VEGF-Axxx binding to VEGFR-2. Examples of such recombinant binding proteins are proteins which comprise an ankyrin repeat domain with the desired binding specificity, and a polyethylene glycol moiety. The binding proteins are useful in the treatment of cancer and other pathological conditions, e.g. eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.

A composition for use in cardiovascular therapy includes transfer factor. The transfer factor may be nonmammalian transfer factor, such as that derived from eggs, or mammalian transfer factor, such as that derived from colostrum. The composition may also include one or more of the following: an LDL receptor-binding element; a blood flow-enhancing element; a cholesterol reducing element; a fat oxidation prevention element, and an antioxidant. Treatment methods include enlisting the immune system of a subject receiving therapy to attack pathogens that cause inflammation of blood vessels or to otherwise reduce inflammation of blood vessels.

The present invention concerns a combination comprising the dipeptide L-alanyl-L-glutamine, hyaluronic acid or one of the salts of same and an oat extract, advantageously intended for healing wounds and repairing skin lesions.

Methods of treatment and dosage regimes using hydrophobic gel or foam compositions comprising a tetracycline antibiotic for accelerating the return of skin integrity and or in treating or alleviating a disorder including impetigo, acne, rosacea, a skin disease caused by a bacteria or a tetracycline antibiotic responsive disease, wherein the foam composition or gel is administered topically to a target area on a subject having the disorder and wherein the target area comprises an area of skin, or mucosa or an eye.

Disclosed herein are methods of treating or preventing a viral infection resulting from infection by a flavivirus, comprising administering to a subject a small molecule inhibitor of USP14, represented by Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, hydrate, prodrug, chemically-protected form, enantiomer or stereoisomer thereof, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising an effective amount of a compound of Formula (I) for use in the method.

A β1-ADR agonist prodrug compound, which is hydrolysable in vivo to release a β1-ADR agonist compound, and which prodrug compound contains a group which imparts greater lipophilicity and CNS bioavailability to the prodrug compound relative to the β1-ADR agonist compound.

Disclosed in certain embodiments is a method of treating or preventing an opioid induced adverse pharmacodynamic response comprising administering to a patient in need thereof an effective amount of buprenorphine.

Compositions and methods for treatment of conditions affecting skin and/or mucosal surfaces of a subject that make use of an imidazoquinoline compound and a retinoid agent are described.

Provided herein are pharmaceutical formulations of dry-powder bendamustine suitable for pharmaceutical use. Also provided are methods of producing dry-powder bendamustine. The pharmaceutical formulations can be used for any disease that is sensitive to treatment with bendamustine, such as neoplastic diseases.

Described herein are compounds that are inhibitors of autotaxin. Also described are pharmaceutical compositions and medicaments that include the compounds described herein, as well as methods of using such inhibitors, alone and in combination with other compounds, for treating autotaxin-dependent or autotaxin-mediated conditions or diseases.

A modified release oral dosage form comprising an internal phase containing terbutaline sulphate and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, dispersed in an external phase comprising pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

The present invention provides use of composition containing molecular dispersions of carotenoids for the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders which are safe for human consumption and are particularly useful as dietary supplements for nutrition and health promoting benefits. The present invention particularly relates to the use of highly water soluble composition with enhanced bioavailability containing at least 80% by weight of total xanthophylls, out of which the trans-lutein content is 80-95% w/w; (R,R)-zeaxanthin is 14-20% w/w; (R,S)-zeaxanthin is 0.01-1% w/w and traces of other carotenoids derived from the plant extracts/oleoresin containing xanthophylls/xanthophylls esters. The present invention also provides use of the said composition in treatment of neurodegenerative disorders when co-administered along with reduced dose of Levodopa and Carbidopa.

CXCL12 polypeptide eluting matrices encapsulating at least one cell are described for use in the treatment of autoimmune disorders.

This invention provides a solid oral formulation including a tablet core surrounded by an iron sugar overcoat so that the iron sugar overcoat makes at least some elemental iron content available for gastrointestinal absorption relative to the tablet core while counteracting at least some of the constipation associated with oral iron consumption, and further includes methods of administering the solid oral formulation.

The present invention relates to stable pharmaceutical compositions comprising rifaximin and processes for their preparation.

A transdermal composition comprising ibuprofen or salts thereof and a gelling agent which can be used for the treatment of such disorders as pain, inflammation, arthritis, muscle spasm and associated symptoms in humans and animals.

A feeding tube device for postpyloric feeding that comprises a bendable feeding tube having a proximal end, a central portion and, and a distal end and a delivery lumen therealong for conducting a digestible substance therethrough, an imaging unit having an image sensor mounted on a tip of the distal end to image an imaging space thereinfront, and a tilting mechanism for tilting the distal end in relation to the central portion. The distal end has at least one lateral tilt and feeding opening therealong for delivering the digestible substance therethrough, the at least one lateral tilt and feeding opening are laid out so that when the tilting mechanism tilts the distal end the at least one lateral tilt and feeding opening narrows.

A pill, or like object, splitting apparatus includes a base having a bottom and continuous side walls defining an interior area. The side wall defines primary apertures. A cutting platform is situated in the interior area in a first horizontal plane defined by apertures, the cutting platform defining a bore extending horizontally between the primary apertures. Primary clamp members extends through respective primary apertures into the bore of the cutting platform. The clamp members engage with the pill to position and hold the pill/tablet stable during the cutting process. A plunger assembly having a compression plate and a blade is operatively coupled to the compression plate, the plunger selectively positioned in communication with the interior area via the open top of the base such that the blade severs the pill upon a downward pressure on the compression plate. The cutting portion is interchangeable with different configurations of blade/blades.

The headache mitigating apparatus includes at least a transverse strap configured to wrap around a user's head in the manner of a hat band and at least one strap configured to extend under the user's occipital bone and rest along the user's upper neck as well as extending over the head strap at a forward end thereof. The apparatus can include bladders in the transverse and occipital straps, respectively. The bladders can be filled simultaneously or separately with a pneumatic hand pump such as those found on sphygmomanometers or may include an inflation apparatus which is operable via a push button, in a manner similar to that in which self-inflating items inflate. At least one strap may also accommodate a gel pack for heating or cooling. One or both straps may include buckles or hook and loop closures configured to be adjusted to secure the apparatus to the user's head.

A device for treating cellulite and stretch marks, includes: a unit (205, 215, 250) for placing a portion of the user's skin under negative pressure; a unit (205, 220, 50) for releasing the negative pressure and for placing the portion of the skin under relative positive pressure, including a plurality of chambers provided with a piston configured to strike the user's skin; and an element for controlling the negative pressure unit and the pressure-release and positive-pressure unit in order to produce cycles during which the negative pressure element and the pressure-release and positive-pressure element operate in turn. In some embodiments: the release unit includes an actuator controlling the position of the piston or the negative-pressure unit includes at least one chamber, which is provided, on one side, with a connection to a chamber placed under relative negative pressure.

A contact lens applicator for use in the application and removal of contact lenses, is disclosed. The contact lens applicator comprises a hollow cylindrical tube defining a curved portion at one end having a straight portion attached to a suction bulb at the distal end. The end tip surface of the curved portion defines a generally solid concave-shaped cup surface having a center hole surrounded by an outer edge circular ring of smaller diameter holes for allowing air to pass in and out of the cylindrical tube through the cup surface. The diameter of the cylindrical tube and cup surface are slightly greater than the diameter of a contact lens. In use, the contact lens applicator temporarily grasps using air pressure a soft contact lens for applying the soft contact lens to a user's eye and for removing a soft contact lens therefrom without discomfort to the user or damage to the lens.

At least one thermoelectric assembly controlled by a microprocessor and disposed on a thermal conduction pad configured to conduct energy to and from the thermoelectric assembly and adjacent the treatment area positioned with removable electronics and a breathable liner. The hot intensity, cold intensity and time delay between sequences can also be selected as well as alternating temperature sequences with both vibration and tension monitoring to promote blood flow and speed up healing.

Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed that involve a fistula-isolating device for use when reduced pressure is applied to a wound bed having a fistula. In one instance, the fistula-isolating device includes an adjustable passageway member and a perimeter member that contracts under reduced pressure and that automatically accommodates wound beds of different heights. In another instance, the fistula-isolating device involves a body shaped as a frustro-conical body that is readily sized for different depth wound beds. Other systems, methods, and devices are presented.

A non-invasive system for inducing penile blood vessel and erectile tissue volume changes, comprising a cylindrical socket, having interior walls and an open end with a circumferential sealing element, and a control unit connected to pressure pumps are provided, wherein a compartment defined by the sealing element and the interior walls is in a state of positive pressure, or in a state of sub-atmospheric pressure. Pressure reservoirs, connectable to the compartment and to the pressure pumps, and mechanical switching elements connected to the pressure reservoirs are provided. Measuring elements are also provided, wherein the control unit is capable of receiving a signal from the measuring elements and determining a time, rate and shape of measured pulse-waves, and wherein the control unit is gated by the measuring element to control the switching elements to switch connectivity of the compartment to the reservoir and alternately switch the compartment between states.

A brace (10) which can be used in the orthopedic sector for correctly blocking and anatomically supporting the vertebral column, substantially consisting of a semirigid slat (11), with elongated vertical development, shaped in accordance with the vertebral column and thus making it possible to follow and support the column, the lower part being attached to straps (12) which are fixed at the front to an abdominal plate (13), wrapping around the waist, and the upper part to the end of straps (14) which also couple to the same abdominal plate (13), passing through loops (15) positioned at the sides, there being, in the initial part of the straps (14), that is to say in the coupling area (16) of the casing that encloses the semirigid slat and to a certain extent the section towards the front of the brace, a pocket (17) surrounded by stitching and in which there is a slit (18), said pocket being designed to accommodate a stiffening element (19) with a substantially arched shape.

A method of a forming a hollow, drug-eluting nitinol stent includes shaping a composite wire into a stent pattern, wherein the composite wire includes an inner member, a nitinol intermediate member, and an outer member. After the composite wire is shaped into the stent pattern, the composite wire is heat treated to set the nitinol intermediate member in the stent pattern. After heat treatment, the composite wire is processed to remove the outer member and the inner member without adversely affecting the intermediate member. Openings may be provided through the intermediate member and the lumen of the intermediate member may be filled with a substance to be eluted through the openings.

A bioabsorbable implant including an elongated metallic element having more than 50% by weight a metal and being substantially free of rare earth elements, the elongated metallic element defining at least a portion of the bioabsorbable implant and including a wire formed into a discrete bioabsorbable expandable metal ring; at least two biostable ring elements, each biostable ring element having a biostable and radio-opaque metallic alloy, the bioabsorbable expandable metal ring being disposed adjacent to at least one of the biostable ring elements; at least one flexible longitudinal connector including a bioabsorbable polymer, the connector being disposed between at least two adjacent rings; and a coating having at least one pharmaceutically active agent disposed over at least a portion of one ring.

Methods and apparatuses relate to treating vessels that have developed an aneurysm or vessels that are expected to develop an aneurysm (e.g., aortic aneurysm). The device may include a conduit having one or more coupling members that serve to couple the conduit and the vessel together. The conduit and coupling member(s) may cooperate to apply an inward radial force (e.g., physical pulling of the vessel wall inward) on the vessel wall, substantially preventing vessel enlargement. In some embodiments, coupling members are disposed at a midpoint region between opposite ends of the conduit, such as regularly along the length of the conduit. When deployed, the device reduces the risk of excessive vessel enlargement which may otherwise lead to undesirable rupture or dissection of the vessel.

A prosthetic ankle includes a pair of prosthetic members movably coupled together to allow movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another. A hydraulic actuator or damper including hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic chamber is coupled to one of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic piston is movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber and coupled to another of the pair of prosthetic members. A hydraulic flow channel is fluidly coupled between opposite sides of the chamber to allow hydraulic fluid to move between the opposite sides of the chamber as the hydraulic piston moves therein. A voice coil valve is coupled to the hydraulic flow channel to vary resistance to flow of hydraulic fluid through the flow channel, and thus movement of the piston in the chamber, and thus influencing a rate of movement of the pair of prosthetic members with respect to one another.

The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a biomechanical finger brace assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a coupling tip, a proximal ring configured to concentrically receive a user's finger, a distal ring configured to concentrically receive the finger, and a rocker formed in an H-shape. The distal ring and the rocker are pivotally suspended between a proximal coordinated pivot point anchored on the proximal ring and a distal coordinated pivot point anchored on the coupling tip, such that movements of the finger within the proximal ring articulate the distal ring together with the rocker to articulate the coupling tip. The coupling tip may include an open end or an enclosed recess to accept a minimally-amputated or non-amputated finger. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

A variable lordotic interbody spacer including a face plate, superior and inferior endplates coupled to the face plate via a hinge, an actuation frame between the endplates, and an actuation screw. The face plate includes actuation and stabilizer channels. Each of the endplates has endplate arms coupled by an endplate base, and includes actuation ramp recesses. The actuation frame includes frame arms coupled by a frame base in a generally U-shaped configuration, each actuation frame arm having a stabilizer feature passing through a corresponding stabilizer channel and having actuation ramp pins fitted to a corresponding ramp recesses. The actuation screw passes through the actuation channel, with a head retained at the front surface and a threaded end coupled to the actuation frame. When operated, the actuation screw moves the actuation frame between the superior endplate and the inferior endplate to adjust an angle therebetween.

An interbody spinal implant including a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, opposing lateral sides, and opposing anterior and posterior portions. At least a portion of the top surface, the bottom surface, or both surfaces has a roughened surface topography including both micro features and nano features, without sharp teeth that risk damage to bone structures, adapted to grip bone through friction generated when the implant is placed between two vertebrae and to inhibit migration of the implant. The roughened surface topography typically further includes macro features and the macro features, micro features, and nano features overlap. Also disclosed are methods of using such implants and processes of fabricating a roughened surface topography on a surface of an implant. The process includes separate and sequential macro processing, micro processing, and nano processing steps.

A unique, universal Zero-Profile Expandable Intervertebral Spacer (ZP-EIS) device for fusion and distraction throughout the entire spine is provided which can be inserted via anterior, anterolateral, lateral, far lateral or posterior surgical approaches dependent on the need and preference. Multiple ZP-EIS embodiments each with unique mechanisms of calibrated expansion are provided. Two of these embodiments incorporate bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screws and five other embodiments do not incorporate BDFT screws. A tool for implantation into the intervertebral device and calibrated device expansion is also disclosed.

An intervertebral implant frame that is configured to be attached to a spacer body can include a pair of arms that extend longitudinally from a support member such that the arms extend substantially around the spacer body. The arms may be configured to expand, crimp, or otherwise engage the spacer body to thereby hold the spacer body to the frame. The spacer body may be made from bone graft.

A medical device for implantation in a hip joint of a patient is provided. The medical device comprises a first and second piece and a releasing member adapted to, in a first state hold the first piece attached to the second piece, and in a second state release the first piece from the second piece. The releasing member is adapted to change from the first state to the second state when a pre-determined strain is placed on the releasing member.

An aortic graft device (10) is provided with a graft portion (12) integrally fixed to a corrugated trunk portion (14). A fixing ring (16) is provided between the graft and trunk portions. The trunk portion (14) can be averted into the graft portion, leaving the fixing ring (16) at an extremity of the device for suturing purposes. The fixing ring (16) is preferably made from a relatively stiff material such as a compressed foam or rubber like material, which provides a relatively solid component for a surgeon to hold during suturing and which can provide a strong support for sutures.

A dental post removal device having a hollow tubular structure having a sidewall and distal and proximal open ends, an engaging feature positioned on insides of the sidewalls, and a fulcrum positioned on the hollow tubular structure adapted for pulling the hollow tubular structure and a dental post captured therein. The engaging features can be a series of openings formed through the sidewall of the hollow tubular structure, and/or the inner wall surfaces of the sidewall that is one of at least scored, textured, dimpled, coated with a high adhesion material or other type of surface preparation chemical, and/or internally threaded. The tubular structure is of generally constant outside diameter. The inner walls can either be of constant inner diameter, or can have an inner diameter that narrows from the distal end to the proximal end either continuously, or in discrete steps of increasingly smaller diameter.

A drill for an implant surgery is provided which allows a mucous membrane in the maxillary sinus to be quickly and safely lifted without being damaged during a surgery for the maxillary sinus. The drill for use in an implant surgery includes a connection portion formed at an upper end of a body of the drill to be connected with a driving device; and a cutting portion formed at a lower end of the body and having a cutting blade for drilling, wherein an outer circumferential edge of a distal end of the cutting portion protrudes rather than a center of the distal end of the cutting portion.

Biodegradable and resorbable polymer pouches are described for use with cardiac rhythm management devices (CRMs) and other implantable medical devices (IMDs), i.e., a pouch, covering, or other receptacle capable of encasing, surrounding and/or holding the CRM or other IMD for the purpose of securing it in position, inhibiting or reducing bacterial growth, providing pain relief and/or inhibiting scarring or fibrosis on or around the CRM or other IMD. Optionally, the biodegradable and resorbable pouches of the invention include one or more drugs in the polymer matrix to provide prophylactic effects and alleviate side effects or complications associated with the surgery or implantation of the CRM or other IMD.

The ablation systems, ablation probes, and corresponding methods according to the present disclosure reduce or eliminate energy radiating from an ablation probe into the environment. Some ablation probes include a retractable sheath that shields at least the radiating portion of the ablation probe. The retractable sheath and/or the ablation probe may include conduits through which a fluid may flow to shield the radiating portion and to drive the retractable sheath to an extended state. Other ablation probes include apertures defined in the probe walls through which the fluid can flow to expand a balloon surrounding the radiating portion. Yet other ablation probes include a thermal indicator to indicate the temperature of the ablation probe to a user. The ablation systems include fluid circuits and associated mechanical controls for varying the contents and/or flow rate of the fluid provided to the radiating portion of the ablation probe.

A method and apparatus for treating an intraosseous nerve. The method includes positioning a hollow shaft through the cortical shell of a vertebral body and into a cancellous bone region of the vertebral body. The hollow shaft includes an annular wall having a longitudinal bore therein, a proximal portion and a distal portion, and a first window extending transversely through the annular wall. An electrosurgical probe is advanced within the longitudinal bore from the proximal portion toward the distal portion. The electrosurgical probe includes a first treatment element at a distal end of the probe, wherein the first treatment element being in electrical connection with a power supply. The first treatment element is slidably disposed within the longitudinal bore so that the first treatment element is advanced radially outward from the window and shaft to affect treatment of the intraosseous nerve within the cancellous bone region.

A surgical ring and related methods for plantar plate reconstruction and other surgical procedures are described. In particular, the described anchoring systems and surgical methods may include an anchor configured to wrap at least partially around a first bone associated with an affected joint, and wrap at least partially around a tissue alongside the first bone. The anchor may be compressed in a number of ways so as to compress the tissue alongside the first bone against the first bone. The anchor may be formed from a compressible material, configured with an open shape, and/or or include mechanically closeable or compressible features, and the like. The anchor may be formed from various materials including non-bioabsorbable, bioabsorbable, and/or superelastic materials. The first bone may be a metatarsal or phalanx and the tissue alongside the first bone may be a ligament, a plantar plate, or similar tissue.

The invention relates to methods of stabilizing bone implants, comprising inserting a self tapping implant having at least two helical grooves running in opposite directions around the implant.

The present disclosure relates to a system for the fixing of bone segments or bone fragments comprising an implant plate or an implant surface plate having a bore or a cut-out and comprising an implant screw which can be guided through the bore or cut-out of the plate, wherein the implant screw has a screw shaft and a screw head and wherein both the screw shaft and the screw head have a thread with identical pitches.

A bone plate includes a first surface which, when the bone plate is positioned over a bone, faces the bone, and a second surface opposing the first surface, the bone plate comprising an elongate shaft portion extending along a longitudinal axis of the bone plate and including a plurality of through holes extending therethrough from the first surface to the second surface to receive a bone anchor therethrough and a head portion extending from an end of the elongate shaft portion along a length smaller than a length of the elongate shaft portion, a width of the head between lateral walls connecting edges of the first and second surface being greater than a width of the shaft distance between the lateral walls, wherein the second surface includes a cavity extending between a first one of the plurality of through holes situated closest to the head portion and the head portion.

A polyaxial bone anchor has a locking element shaped and configured to allow an anchoring member (e.g., a screw or hook) to polyaxially rotate at large angles about a central axis of the bone anchor before compression locking the anchoring member within an anchor head.

A rotational atherectomy system may include a drive shaft, a motor, and a clutch with a threshold torque where the clutch may include a motor plate rotationally connected to the motor, a drive shaft plate rotationally connected to the drive shaft, and a biasing clutch configured to rotationally engage the motor plate and the drive shaft plate, wherein torques less than the threshold torque are transmitted completely between the motor plate and the drive shaft plate, which remain rotationally coupled by static friction, and wherein torques greater than the threshold torque cause the motor plate and the drive shaft plate to rotate relative to one another and cause a residual torque to be transmitted between the motor and the drive shaft, the residual torque being less than the threshold torque and being determined by a kinetic coefficient of friction.

An ultrasonic instrument comprises an ultrasonic transducer, an acoustic waveguide, and an ultrasonic blade. The blade includes a pair of obliquely extending edges. The obliquely extending edges diverge away from the longitudinal axis of the waveguide and away from each other along respective paths extending distally in relation to the waveguide. A distal portion of the blade is wider than a proximal portion of the blade along a plane. The blade further includes a curved distal edge and several laterally presented surfaces. The laterally presented surfaces may provide combinations of concave and convex curvatures. The laterally presented surfaces may be angled and/or curved along one or more orthogonal planes associated with the longitudinal axis of the waveguide.

A medical instrument has a shaft with a longitudinal axis, a jaw head on a distal end of the shaft having two jaw parts, at least one of the jaw parts being pivotable about a pivot axis extending transversely to the longitudinal axis, the pivotable jaw part having a wheel portion with toothing mounted about the pivot axis, at least one actuation element having a distal end portion with toothing that meshes with the toothing of the wheel portion such that movement of the actuation element along the longitudinal axis pivots the pivotable jaw part, control elements at a proximal end of the shaft controlling movement of the actuation element, said distal end portion with toothing is flexible, one of the jaws having a hollow space arranged distally to the pivot axis, wherein the distal end portion comes in or out of the hollow space when moving the actuation element.

Methods and apparatus for performing knee arthroplasty, including, but not limited to, bicruciate retaining knee arthroplasty, are described herein. Methods and apparatus for preparing a distal femur for a femoral implant as well as methods and apparatus for preparing a proximal tibia for a tibial implant are described. These methods and apparatus, in at least some embodiments and uses, facilitate decreasing the complexity of knee arthroplasty procedures such as bicruciate retaining procedures, while maintaining, if not improving on, the safety, accuracy and/or effectiveness of such procedures.

A surgical clip applier is provided and includes a ratchet mechanism having a rack member connected to a drive channel such that axial translation of the drive channel results in axial translation of the rack member, the rack member defining a first set of teeth along a first side thereof and a second set of teeth along a second side thereof. The ratchet mechanism including a first pawl and a second pawl each tiltably supported in the housing and disposed on respective opposed sides of the rack member; and a buckling spring interposed between the first pawl and the second pawl and constrained in a slot formed in the rack member, wherein the buckling spring is dimensioned so as to bow in one of a proximal direction and a distal direction.

A device for compressing body tissue includes a clip having a connection portion with first and second clip arms extending therefrom, the clip includes a recess formed on an inner surface of the connection portion, the recess being shaped and sized to slidably receive a mounting bar coupled to an outer surface of an endoscope on which the mounting bar is mounted with inner surfaces of the first and second clip arms maintained in an open position by contact between an endoscope on which the mounting bar is mounted and the inner surfaces of the first and second clip arms. The clip is slidable over the outer surface of an endoscope on which the mounting bar is mounted until the clip moves distally beyond the distal end of the endoscope so that the first and second clip arms spring closed to grip tissue therebetween.

Technologies are generally provided for a tissue removal device for removing tissue protrusions extending from a wall of intestines. The tissue removal device may be a bell shaped tube configured to slide over an inflamed diverticulum that has been inverted to extend into interior space of the colon. The tissue removal device run be slid over the inverted diverticulum with a portion of the tissue removal device having a widest diameter oriented near the colon wall and a portion having a narrowest diameter oriented near a tip of the diverticulum. A pressure gradient may be induced along the walls of the tissue removal device such that the point of highest pressure at the narrowest opening may cause the walls of the diverticulum to be pinched together to induce necrosis and removal of the diverticulum, while promoting healing of the colon walls over the region of decreasing pressure.

A medical device includes a laparoscopic shaft having proximal and distal ends and defining a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is at the distal end of the shaft. A surgical procedure actuator carries out a surgical procedure on tissue at the end effector when actuated. A rotating knob is at the proximal end of the shaft. The rotating knob rotates the end effector with respect to the shaft about the shaft axis when rotated and actuates the procedure actuator when slid in a proximal direction.

Methods for suturing tissue by forming a locking loop of suture material. In particular, method of using a suture passer to arthroscopically create a locking loop of suture in difficult to access tissues. As used herein a locking loop of suture is a loop of suture that is passed through a tissue from a first side to a second side of the tissue; one or more of the legs of the loop extending from the first side are passed through the tissue to the second side of the tissue and are then passed through the loop, and the loop is cinched to tighten closed over the one or more legs. The resulting locking loops stitches are extremely strong and distribute the stresses across the tissue in a desirable manner.

A surgical instrument includes a first member including a groove. A second member includes an aperture and teeth configured to slidably engage the groove. A third member is positioned in the aperture and includes a passageway defining a first longitudinal axis and a flange. A fourth member is positioned in the passageway and includes a lip that engages the flange. The lip extends at an acute angle relative to a second longitudinal axis defined by the fourth member. A fifth member is rotatably disposed in the passageway and includes a first end surface that engages a second end surface of the fourth member defined by the lip. In a first configuration, the fourth member extends perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis. In a second configuration, the fourth member extends at an acute angle relative to the first longitudinal axis. Systems and methods are disclosed.

A retractor blade assembly includes an arm member, blade connector and a retractor blade having stem member provided at the top of the blade. The stem member includes a first pin member, provided at an upper portion of the stem member. The first pin member has at least one abutment extending outward from the stem member, a first groove provided below the first pin member, a second groove provided below the first groove, provided about the circumference of the stem member, a second pin member having at least one abutment extending from the second groove. The blade connector cooperatively engages the stem member permitting the retractor blade to operate in a rotatable mode and a locked mode.

In valve modeling from medical scan data, chordae are modeled as a dense structure. Rather than attempting to provide the same number of chordae (e.g., 25) as found in a human valve, hundreds or thousands of chordae connectors are used. Since solving for lengths of so many chordae may be computationally intensive, the lengths of only a few are solved, and the lengths of the rest of the chordae are derived from the lengths of the few.

Systems and methods are described for determining a minimum radiation dose for a computed tomography (CT) scanning device. The method includes receiving a first input indicative of a selected minimum detectable contrast and a second input indicative of an estimate of a size of a subject to be exposed to the radiation dose. A minimum radiation dose to be applied via a radiation source is determined. The minimum radiation dose is determined at least in part by a power law model relating the size of the subject, a lesion size, and a minimum detectable contrast. The power law model is defined as MDC=A(L) dB(L) DoseC(L), wherein (i) MDC is the selected minimum detectable contrast, (ii) d is lesion size, (iii) Dose is radiation dose, (iv) A(L), B(L), and C(L) are pre-determined fitted parameters, and (v) L is the estimate of the size of the subject.

An iterative algorithmic method determines spatial distribution of attenuation values of an object based on measured projection data of the object. An algorithm generates estimated projection data based on an estimated spatial distribution of the attenuation values. Correction data is determined based on a difference between the measured projection data and the estimated projection data. Spatially extended correction data is back projected to update the estimated spatial distribution of the attenuation values. The algorithmic iterations continue until a stopping criterion is reached.

A method includes scanning a region of interest, during a contrast agent based perfusion scan, at a predetermined temporal sampling rate during contrast agent uptake in the region of interest, and generating time frame data indicative of the scanned region of interest. The method further includes identifying a predetermined change in an amount of the contrast agent in the region of interest from the time frame data. The method further includes scanning the region of interest at a lower temporal sampling rate, which is lower than the temporal sampling rate during the contrast agent uptake, in response to identifying the predetermined change in the amount of the contrast agent in the region of interest.

A medical imaging jig is provided with a foldable handle and an integral type foldable footstool, so that a patient having difficulty in movement can be easily and safely subject to medical imaging. In particular, the integral type foldable footstool is provided to be rotated on a hinge to be folded, a lead ruler provided on the rear surface of the medical imaging jig is slidably and detachably provided so that the lead ruler may be moved leftward or rightward or detached depending on the demand by a user, a handle provided on the medical imaging jig may be folded to allow positioning of an objected to be imaged, and omnidirectional wheels are provided on the lower end of the medical imaging jig.

A method of creating a 3-D anatomic digital model for determining a desired location for placing at least one dental implant in a patient's mouth. The method comprises the act of obtaining a first dataset associated with hard tissue of the patient's mouth. The method further comprises the act of obtaining a second dataset associated with soft tissue of the patient's mouth. The method further comprises the act of combining the first dataset and the second dataset to create a detailed structure of hard tissue and soft tissue having variable dimensions over the hard tissue.

An apparatus for determining a respiratory condition, the apparatus includes: a signal acquirer which is configured to acquire a signal waveform corresponding to a respiratory flow of a subject; a differential calculator which is configured to acquire a differential waveform which is obtained by performing differentiation of the signal waveform; and a first determiner which is configured to determine that inspiratory flow limitation occurs in the subject, when the differential waveform satisfies a predetermined condition in a portion of the signal waveform, which corresponds to inspiration of the subject.

Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for identifying when a subject is likely to be affected by a medical condition. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive information reflective of an external soft tissue image of the subject. The processor may also be configured to perform an evaluation of the external soft tissue image information and to generate evaluation result information based, at least in part, on the evaluation. The processor may also be configured to predict a likelihood that the subject is affected by the medical condition based, at least in part, on the evaluation result information.

A system for identifying fatigue sources includes a processor and at least one computer program residing on the processor. The computer program is stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer executable code embodied thereon. The computer executable code is configured to detect a fatigue level. The computer executable code is further configured to receive fatigue contribution data. In addition, the computer executable code is configured to identify a fatigue source based on the fatigue level and the fatigue contribution data.

A method for determining an operational state of a driver of a vehicle uses an awareness detection arrangement. The awareness detection arrangement includes at least a first and a second source for generating data relating to the behavior of the driver. The method includes receiving, from the first and the second source, data relating to at least one of physiological data of the driver, the operation of the vehicle, and a model of the driver operating the vehicle, comparing the data from the first and the second source with a driver state model defining a plurality of predefined driver states for each of the first and the second source, respectively, determining based on the comparison, for each of the first and the second source, a state probability for each of the plurality of predefined driver states, and weighing the determined driver states for the first and the second source with each other for determining an overall operational state probability for the driver.

An activity tracking system includes a sensor device and a display device. The sensor device is configured to be carried by the user and includes at least one sensor configured to obtain the activity data for the user. The display device includes a display screen. The display device is configured to receive the activity data obtained by the sensor device and display the activity data about a circular axis on the display screen. The activity data includes sleep data on one side of the circular axis and awake data on an opposite side of the circular axis. The sleep data includes a start time and an end time for a daily retired sleep period, the end time occurring in a selected day and the start time occurring in a previous day.

A positioning apparatus configured to actively assist the support, positioning, or support and positioning of a patient on a patient support apparatus is provided. The positioning apparatus includes a sliding bearing unit to allow the positioning apparatus to be supported in a movable manner on the patient support apparatus, and a bearing unit with at least two bearing regions. At least a first of the at least two bearing regions is configured to support and/or provide support on the patient support apparatus, and at least a second of the at least two bearing regions is configured to assist the positioning of the patient.

The present disclosure is related to a play control method, apparatus and terminal. The method comprises: acquiring brain wave information of a user; and controlling an electronic device based on the brain wave information. When the embodiments of this disclosure are applied, by acquiring brain wave information of a user and controlling an electronic device based on the brain wave information, the state of the user can be reflected through the brain wave information; accordingly, effective control of the user's needs can be realized through the brain wave information without any triggering operation by the user, thereby enhancing the user experience and improving the intelligence level of electronic device.

This disclosure is directed to a machine-based patient-specific seizure classification system. In general, an example system may comprise a non-linear SVM seizure classification system-on-chip (SoC) with multichannel EEG data acquisition and storage for epileptic patients is presented. The SoC may integrate a hardware-efficient log-linear Gaussian Basis Function engine, floating point piecewise linear natural log, and low-noise, high dynamic range readout circuits. In at least one example implementation, the SoC may consume 1.83 μJ/classification while classifying 8 channel results with an average detection rate, average false alarm rate and latency of 95.1%, 0.94% and <2 s, respectively.

A stand-on physiological sensor (e.g. floormat) measures vital signs and various hemodynamic parameters, including blood pressure and ECG waveforms. The sensor is similar in configuration to a common bathroom scale and includes electrodes that take electrical measurements from a patient's feet to generate bioimpedance waveforms, which are analyzed digitally to extract various other parameters, as well as a cuff-type blood pressure system that takes physical blood pressure measurements at one of the patient's feet. Blood pressure can also be calculated/derived from the bioimpedance waveforms. Measured parameters are transmitted wirelessly to facilitate remote monitoring of the patient for heart failure, chronic heart failure, end-stage renal disease, cardiac arrhythmias, and other degenerative diseases.

Disclosed herein is a framework for facilitating patient signal analysis. In accordance with one aspect, first and second patient signal data are received from a patient monitor. The first and second patient signal data may then be segmented into respective first and second regions of interest, from which respective first and second waveform parameters may be extracted. One or more morphology indices may then be generated based on the first and second waveform parameters to compare shapes of the first and second regions of interest.

Disclosed herein is a disposable cap for an eye imaging apparatus with an optical window and related methods. The disposable cap can comprise an optically transparent window cover, a ridge, a side wall and a locking element. The window cover can comprise a convex back surface to match a concave shape of the optical window. The ridge of the disposable cap can extend distally and radially outward from the window cover and the side wall can extend proximally and radially outwardly from the ridge. The locking element can comprise one or more radially inward projections and one or more radially outward releasing tabs. A disposable packaging shell of the disposable cap also disclosed. Disclosed herein is also a plug-in disposable system comprising the disposable cap and the disposable packaging shell, configured to enable the disposable cap to be attached to and detached from the eye imaging apparatus.

A target presenting apparatus includes: a display for emitting a target light flux; a concave mirror for receiving the target light flux in such a manner as to displace the target light flux from an optical axis thereof; a housing for accommodating the concave mirror and the display therein; and an optical member, placed in the housing, for guiding the target light flux from the inside to the outside of the housing to present a target to an examinee.

An access system includes a proximal handle, an overtube coupled to the handle, and an endoscope port extending through handle and overtube sized for receiving an endoscope therethrough. The overtube includes anatomic wall securing system that secures a distal portion of the overtube within a hole in the anatomic wall. The overtube is provided with a shaped distal portion or a controllably shapeable distal portion that aids in directing an endoscope inserted through the port to a particular location within the peritoneal cavity. The access system includes a system for insufflating/deflating the peritoneal space separately from the body cavity accessible via a natural orifice. The access system includes a closure system to cinch closed the hole made in the anatomical wall after the access system has been removed from the hole. Methods are provided for inserting the access system through the anatomical wall to perform intra-abdominal surgery.

The present specification provides an apparatus for supporting one or more monitors. The apparatus includes a base stand having one or more wheels for enabling movement of the apparatus; a first rigid frame having a top end and a bottom end attached with the base stand; a second extendable frame having a top end and a bottom end and telescopically movable within the first rigid frame; a monitor arm assembly removably coupled with the top end of the second frame and configured to receive a plurality of monitors. The apparatus is transformable from a first collapsed configuration for transport and storage into a second operational configuration by rotating or removing the monitor arm assembly and by moving the second extendable frame relative to the first rigid frame.

A cyclonic separating apparatus comprising a first cyclonic separating unit and, downstream from the first cyclonic separating unit, a second cyclonic separating unit comprising a plurality of cyclones arranged fluidly in parallel about a first axis and a dust collector arranged to receive dust from each of the plurality of cyclones. Each of the plurality of cyclones in the second cyclonic separation unit comprise a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the plurality of cyclones being divided into at least a first set of cyclones and a second set of cyclones, the fluid inlets of the first set of cyclones arranged in a first group and the fluid inlets of the second set of cyclones arranged in a second group spaced along said axis from the first group. Each outlet of the plurality of cyclones in the second cyclonic separation unit is provided by a common plate-like vortex finder member.

In some embodiments, an improved system for toilet maintenance may include a lavatory accessory holding device which may include a storage container and a vertical support pole may be coupled to the storage container. A hanger bracket may be pivotally coupled to the vertical support pole which may be configured to hold a lavatory accessory or a toilet maintenance brush. The system may also include a toilet maintenance brush which may include an elongate handle having a guard end. A brush wand may be coupled to the guard end of the handle with the brush wand terminating with a brush head which may be used to clean a toilet bowl. A power supply may be in electrical communication with a light unit and with a fan unit having a fan blade. The fan blade may be rotatably driven by a motor and configured to circulate air onto the brush head.

Disclosed is an eco-friendly cooking including a lid main body including a hollow body formed of heat-resistant transparent glass, openings formed on the side surface of the body, and hinge coupling units provided adjacent to the openings, inlets, each including a cover provided with one end coupled with the hinge coupling unit by a hinge to open and close the opening and including at least one air vent, and a grasping terminal formed on the upper surface of the cover, a sealing weight provided on the lower surface of the cover, a handle provided at the upper end of the lid main body and including a grasping part and a through hole formed at the grasping part, and an exhaust pipe including an exhaust pipe main body provided with a lower end inserted into the through hole and a tubular connection member combined with the exhaust pipe main body.

Devices, systems, and methods are provided for baking a food product in a portable baking oven. The baking oven includes a main body, lower and upper stones, a heat shield suspending the upper stone above the lower stone, and a heat element emanating heat upward to a rotating flat panel having the lower stone thereon. Convection heat from the heat element moves upward from below the rotating flat panel and past a periphery of the flat panel, channeled by the heat shield to the upper stone, to move along the upper stone, and then down along the heat shield, on the opposite side. With this arrangement, the heat element heats the upper and lower stones with convection heat moving between the lower and upper stones in a side-to-side manner.

A wishing card binding structure includes: a lighting seat, including a card seat main body, control circuit module and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs), the card seat main body being configured with at least one positioning groove; and a plurality of wishing cards, each being constituted by a card body and second binding element, and said first binding element and second binding element being a magnetic attraction pair capable of attracting each other. Whereby, the wishing card is attracted to and positioned on any position of the first binding element through the second binding element. With the use of the wishing cards, the lighting seat can be modeled more flexibly such that more people can use the wishing cards at the same time, and the appearance of present invention is much more eye-appealing.

A mailbox with silhouette support is disclosed. The silhouette has a flat front and back side which is staked into the ground at two-spaced apart places. The spaced apart places are, in some embodiments, further split by a portal there-between forming a “leg” on either side of the silhouette. The legs connect at a body region, in some embodiments, with a head region there-above. The head region supports and is directly connected to a mailbox which is situated above the silhouette, at least in part.

A refrigerating cabinet (1) comprises at least one goods presentation and air circulation space (2), a refrigeration cycle for cooling the at least one goods presentation and air circulation space (2), and at least one drain conduit (36; 42) configured for draining condensed water, which is produced when the refrigeration circuit is operating, from the at least one goods presentation and air circulation space (2). At least a portion of the at least one drain conduit (36; 42) is filled with a granulate material (34) or provided with a movable flap (48) allowing water to pass through the drain conduit (36; 42) and blocking air from passing through the drain conduit (36; 42).

A rocker includes a frame and a seat coupled to the frame for receiving an infant therein. The frame includes a front and a rear frame portion generally oppositely extending along a longitudinal axis. The first and second frame portions are pivotally coupled together to move between an upright configuration and a collapsed configuration. The front and rear frame portions include rocking surfaces that are configured to rock on a support surface in a side-to-side motion transverse to the longitudinal axis, with the infant positioned in the seat in a head-to-foot longitudinal orientation.

A mattress assembly includes a first layer of viscoelastic foam defining an upper surface, and a second layer of non-viscoelasiic foam supporting the first layer. The mattress assembly also includes a plurality of static spring elements positioned beneath the upper surface for enhancing a firmness of the combined first and second layers.

Disclosed are foldable bed frames and beds. A foldable bed frame includes longitudinal bars, supporting assemblies to support the longitudinal bars, and links to couple one or more supporting assemblies with the longitudinal bars. Each supporting assembly includes vertical and crossed bars. When the beds are unfolded and in use, the vertical bars support the longitudinal bars and bear majority of the load. As such, the bed frames and beds are stable and safe to use.

In an aspect, provided is an adjustable telescoping assembly. The adjustable telescoping assembly comprises a first support member and a second support member that is slidable upon the first support member and which defines an interior volume. At least one damping element is provided that extends from outside the second support member, through a corresponding damping element aperture on the second support member into the interior volume and engages the first support member.

A lift and recliner chair which is positionable in multiple reclining positions including both a Trendelenburg and zero-gravity position, in which using an actuator mechanism the position of the back frame can be adjusted in any lift and/or reclining position the chair is capable of achieving without requiring any movement or adjustment to the position of the seat frame or footrest. The actuator mechanism is secured between the back frame and the seat frame or another component of the lift/recline assembly that follows or moves with the seat frame as the chair is moved between a lift and reclining position, while in one embodiment the angle of the footrest is independently adjustable using a separate actuator mechanism.

A slide rail assembly includes a first rail, a supporting member, and a second rail movably coupled to the first rail. The first rail defines a first channel. The supporting member includes a pair of supporting portions and a supporting wall that jointly define a supporting channel. The second rail corresponds to the first channel and the supporting channel. The supporting member is movable relative to the first rail from a first position to a second position, such that the second rail is supported by the supporting portions of the supporting member in the course of moving relative to the first rail.

A non-scratch tool belt apparatus conveniently contains instruments that are useful for a task adjacent to a user, such as for detailing operations of objects that have delicate surfaces or finishes. The tool belt apparatus is lightweight and generally features only soft exposed materials, such as cotton. The tool belt reduces the likelihood that users will lose an instrument, and also of scratching a surface. The apparatus includes an elongated fabric belt, a buckle, a non-scratch buckle cover, and a plurality of tool bags. The elongated fabric belt wraps around a user and is secured by the buckle. The buckle cover encloses the buckle to prevent scratching. The buckle cover and plurality of tool bags can slide on the belt. The tool bags are each configured to hold at least one instrument, such as a tool or bottle used in detailing operations.

With respect to cases for laptop computers, and the like and, an improvement comprises pair of opposing strap guides through which elastic side retention straps are respectively journaled to prevent the straps from interfering with the closure of the case. A case according to the invention comprises top and bottom covers hinged in the rear of the case, and a closure mechanism such as a zipper is for closing the top and bottom covers. Right and left elastic retaining straps respectively connect the top and bottom portions of the case, and the right and left elastic retaining straps pass through respective strap guides, each attached to the inner surface of the top portion of the case, to prevent the retaining straps from being caught in the hinged portions of the computer or the closure mechanism as the case is closed. Each elastic retaining strap may twist between the bottom cover of the case and each strap guide.

In an item of footwear having a sole and an upper, the sole includes at least one upper layer, which is directed towards the upper, and at least one lower layer, which is directed away from the upper. The upper layer and the lower layer are made of materials having different levels of elasticity, density or hardness. The side of the sole which is directed towards the upper forms a bearing surface for the foot, with a heel zone and a ball-of-the-foot zone. The lower layer passes through the upper layer at least in part such that a bearing surface is formed by regions of the lower layer and of the upper layer. This construction makes it possible to combine the different materials' properties in the region of the bearing surface.

A kicking shoe attachment for use by the rider of a kick scooter having an elongated core with a flat upper surface with an upper sole thereupon, and an opposing curvilinear lower surface with a wear resistant lower sole disposed thereupon. Optionally a heel cup connected to a heel cup carrier plate is slidably supported in a heel cup carrier plate receiver. A latching mechanism allows securing the heel cup and carrier plate in a desired position along a major axis of the elongated core. The elongated core may be split apart horizontally and two or more springs, a block of a resilient material or a scissor jack mechanism may be placed between the portions. An opening may be placed in the upper surface of the elongated body to receive the protruding heel of typically a woman's heeled shoe or boot. A removable plug may fill the hole when unneeded.

The present disclosure includes a retrofit sensor module for use with a protective head top with a helmet and a visor. The sensor module includes a sensor housing and an attachment mechanism. The sensor housing encloses a head presence sensor to sense when the protective head top is being worn. The sensor housing also encloses a position sensor to sense the position of the visor relative to the helmet. The retrofit sensor module further comprises an attachment mechanism secured to the housing. The attachment mechanism mates with a first hinge component of a hinge assembly in the protective head top to removably install the sensor module into the protective head top, wherein the hinge assembly allows the visor to move relative to the helmet.

Provided is a form-fitting, eyewear retaining head covering made of an elastic material that snuggly fits the contour of a wearer's head. On each side of the head covering is a retention slot designed to receive the arm of a pair of eyeglass frames. The slots are disposed along the lower edge of the head covering and in horizontal alignment therewith. The slots may be reinforced with a high friction material in order to grip the eyeglass frames and reduce slippage. The normal seat and positioning of the head covering is not adjusted by eyewear and the eyewear is disposed in its natural position. The slots are relatively close to one another to minimize the propensity of the hat lower edge to fold backward in high winds, whereby the lower edge of the head covering is stretched to accommodate the arms of the glasses.

A hat assembly and method of use is provided including a striking surface for igniting a flammable instrument. The hat assembly may also provide a receptacle for storing flammable instruments.

Disclosed is an electronic atomization device, which includes a suction nozzle, an oil cup assembly, an atomization core assembly and an electrode assembly. The atomization core assembly includes a heater support with a first stepped structure, an atomization core body supported by the heater support, a sealing washer sleeved on the atomization core body and closely contacting with the first stepped structure, an electrode connecting part connected with an end of the heater support via an insulating ring and an air hole connecting part disposed in the atomization core body. The oil cup assembly includes an oil cup body having an airway tube for connecting with the air hole connecting part, a first connecting element removably connected with the suction nozzle and a second connecting element having a second stepped structure formed therein for fitting the sealing washer. According to the present invention, its atomization core is easy to be changed.

The present invention provides an electronic cigarette and a battery device thereof. The battery device applied to an electronic cigarette, includes a cylindrical body, a first airflow channel, and two conductive members. The first air flowing channel extends axially through the cylindrical body. The conductive members are mounted to opposite ends of the cylindrical body, and keep insulation from an anode and a cathode of the battery device. The two conductive members further is electrically connected to each other. By virtue of the airflow channel defined in the cylindrical body of the battery device, it is easily to maintain the airflow channel being consistent, thereby enhancing the consistency of electronic cigarettes.

An electronic smoking article includes a liquid supply region including liquid material and a heater-wick element operable to wick liquid material and heat the liquid material to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the liquid material and form an aerosol. The heater-wick element is formed of a carbon or graphite foam.

Nobel Stevia Sweetening components are provided. Through the analysis of the components of the nobel Steviol Glycoside included in the stevia extract and/or crystals, not only the quality control of sweeteners, but judgment on the correctness of indication of origin or infringement of right are facilitated since the raw material of the sweetener can be identified.

The present invention provides improved apparatus and methods for the monitoring and control of apparatus designed to remove moisture from an initially wet product, such as a continuous dryer (14). The net rate of water removal from the wet product (16) is determined during drying thereof, preferably on a real-time basis. A control assembly (20) is operatively coupled with the dryer (14) and includes sensors (24, 26, 28, 34), which are operatively coupled with a digital controller (38). The controller (38) has a PID controller operable to continuously determine the average net rate of water removal from the product (16).

To provide an unfermented beer-taste beverage provided with fermentation flavor, and a method for producing the unfermented beer-taste beverage.An unfermented beer-taste beverage provided with good fermentation flavor characteristic of beer can be provided by a method for producing an unfermented beer-taste beverage comprising a step of adding a flavor composition containing a sulfur-containing compound to an unfermented beer-taste beverage to achieve a content of the sulfur-containing compound of 1×102 ppt or more but 1×103 ppt or less.

The present invention relates to methods for increasing the suppression of hunger and/or increasing the reduction of prospective consumption and/or increasing the reduction of appetite and/or increasing the feeling of satiety and/or reducing non-fat energy uptake in the gastrointestinal tract of a mammal in order to prevent a positive non-fat energy balance, weight gain, overweight and obesity, and to induce a negative non-fat energy balance and weight loss in subjects who wish to reduce their body weight. In particular, feed, food and/or beverages and dietary supplements of the present invention comprises mucilage such as flax seed mucilage and/or one or more active compounds of mucilage useful for increasing the suppression of hunger and/or increasing the reduction of prospective consumption and/or increasing the reduction of appetite and/or increasing the feeling of satiety and/or reducing the digestibility of non-fat energy in the gastrointestinal tract of a mammal.

A frozen food dispensing machine includes a refrigerated first zone including a product storage chamber. A second zone is operably connected to the first zone for flowing product from the first zone. A third zone is configured to receive a flow of product from the second zone, freeze the flow of product and dispense the flow of product. The first zone, the second zone and the third zone are isolatable from each other.

A method for producing a lactase-containing composition which is purified by selectively removing protease contaminating the lactase using simple and easy means; a lactase-containing composition; and a dairy product containing the lactase-containing composition.A method for producing a lactase-containing composition having a reduced protease content includes: dissolving a composition containing lactase and protease in an aqueous salt solution having an electric conductivity of from 2 to 45 mS/cm; bringing the resultant solution into contact with an ion exchange resin; and collecting a fraction which is not adsorbed onto the ion exchange resin.

A termite bait includes a plurality of cellulosic food material pieces palatable to termites embedded within a water resistant polyurethane foam matrix. Another termite bait includes a plurality of cellulosic food material pieces embedded within a water-absorbent polyurethane foam matrix. Yet another termite bait includes at least one cellulosic food material piece encapsulated within a water resistant polyurethane foam coating. Such termite baits can be used alone or in a monitoring device or other termite control device. Another termite control device includes a container, a cellulosic food material within the container and a water resistant polyurethane foam positioned to separate the food material from its environment. The container can contain a termite bait as described above or can include a chamber containing a cellulosic food material and at least one pocket containing a polyurethane foam barrier to reduce intrusion of water through the pocket to the food material.

A scent-free game call configured to emulate a sound of a predetermined species of animal, the call comprising a mouthpiece section, with a digitally reproduced image displayed thereon, in a manner such that the digitally reproduced image specifically relates to said predetermined species.

An improved agricultural spray boom having a primary section, a secondary section and a break away section is provided. The primary section has a top extrusion having a web and two tubes, each tube having a heat sink and a wing. No welds are located above the centerline of the tubes where stress would be the greatest. The secondary section is pivotally attached to the primary section. Weight of the second section and break away section cause a twisting force to be applied to the primary section. The primary section has specially oriented side braces which act in compression to resist the twisting force. The primary section further has a steel connector connected to the underside of the extrusions (and not welded to top of extrusions). The secondary section also has a top extrusion with a web and two tubes.

Apparatus for managing animals such as but not limited to livestock. In some embodiments, an ear tag assembly has a tag, a backing member and an elongated shaft assembly configured to pierce and extend through an outer ear (auricle) of the animal. A first temperature sensor is disposed within the shaft assembly to obtain an ear temperature measurement of the animal. A second temperature sensor obtains an ambient temperature measurement adjacent the animal. A control circuit accumulates temperature data from the first and second temperature sensors in a tag memory for subsequent transfer, via a wireless communication network, to a data collection unit. Additional sensors may be utilized. In some cases, the backing member may house a battery to power the control circuit. The backing member may be removably attachable to the shaft to allow replacement of the battery.

A milking cluster for a milking parlor for milking milk-giving animals, having at least one teat cup unit having a housing, a teat cup, a drive appliance, a pulling element arrangement connected to the teat cup, and the pulling element arrangement has a segment unit having at least two pulling elements.

A human operated control device for assisting a plurality of milking robots includes a controller adapted for controlling communication with a plurality of milking robots operated substantially simultaneously, graphical user interface (GUI) adapted for displaying information received from at least one milking robot and for receiving input from a human supervisor for operating the at least one milking robot based on the displayed information, and a processor adapted to convert the input received from the human supervisor into a command for operating the at least one milking robot from which the information was received. A milking robot for operating milking equipment is adapted to operate in one of an automated mode of operation and a human assisted mode of operation.

A novel maize variety designated PH2T0P and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2T0P with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2T0P through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH2T0P or a locus conversion of PH2T0P with another maize variety.

The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01058353. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01058353. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01058353 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01058353 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.

The invention relates to the novel cotton variety designated 15R512. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants, plant parts and derivatives of the cotton variety 15R512. Also provided by the invention are methods of using cotton variety 15R512 and products derived therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing cotton plants by crossing the cotton variety 15R512 with itself or another cotton variety and plants and seeds produced by such methods.

According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV346421. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV346421, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV346421 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV346421 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV346421.

An apparatus for tapping trees has a vertical support structure of posts that support upper and lower horizontal members extending from the vertical structure. The upper horizontal member provides a support for bearing against a tree trunk, and the lower horizontal member supports a combination of a drill block with a drill and a tap press. Forward and rearward movement of the drill block is operated by a motor, shafts and gears to drive a suspension member toward the tree trunk along travel rods and then reverse. A drive chain engaged with the gears is attached to the suspension member and incorporated in the front and rear blocks that support the travel rods and sprockets for the chain. The tap press is attached to the drill block and rotates from vertical to horizontal position and holds a tap cylinder for insertion into a tree trunk.

A control device of a cutting tool is revealed. For performing cutting, opening and closing, the cutting tool includes a pair of handles pivotally connected to each other and each handle having a blade. The control device is set on the handle and involved in opening or closing of the blades of the cutting tool. The control device includes a first component and a second component. The first and the second components are connected to and locked with each other tightly by a fastening structure. The control device is disposed on the handle closely, without loosening from the handle.

A harvesting unit with a combine, having a user cab. A harvesting apparatus, advanced by the combine, has a frame and a harvesting assembly on the frame configured to process severed crop over a width between spaced sides of the frame. A fluid delivery system discharges pressurized fluid in discrete streams each directed to at least one of: a) facilitate severance of crop by the harvesting assembly; and b) facilitate advancement of severed crop rearwardly in relationship to the frame for further processing. A user can selectively vary at least one of: a) a volume of pressurized fluid; and b) a direction of pressurized fluid in the discrete streams. A control system has at least one actuator accessible and operable from outside of the cab through a user input to cause the at least one of the volume of pressurized fluid discharged, and direction of the pressurized fluid, in the discrete streams to be varied.

A method, system and apparatus for a lawn or turf care maintenance machine, including at least one of fully electric operation; multi-purpose operation; and overnight, silent operation. The machine can be configured for at least one of golf course maintenance, turf care, landscaping, outdoor work, and transportation.

A header for use by an agricultural harvester. The header includes a cutter bar that cuts crop material and includes a stationary knife section and a plurality of reciprocating knife sections extending along a portion of the stationary knife section. A substantial part of the length of the reciprocating knife sections do not extend along any portion of the stationary knife section.

The selective positioning of row units along a planter tool bar is facilitated by introducing an elongated channel of generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration intermediate the tool bar and a plurality of row unit head brackets. The channel is welded or otherwise fixed to the tool bar with the open edge of the “C” facing away from the tool bar and the head brackets are fixed to the channel by clamping nut and bolt assemblies. The bolts extend through the clamping brackets and engage corresponding clamping nuts. The clamping nuts are positioned within the “C” and may be slid along the inner edge of the channel to any preferred position. The bolts are then and tightened fixing the head bracket at the selected at location.

A closing wheel assembly is provided for a row unit agricultural planter. The planter is configured to open a trench in the soil and the closing wheel assembly is configured to close the trench. A resilient flap is provided for firming and leveling the soil returned to the trench by the closing wheel assembly. Pivotally mounted offset closing wheels are also provided.

A gauge wheel load sensor for an agricultural planter having a row unit that includes a pivotably mounted gauge wheel and a down pressure controller for controlling the down pressure on at least a portion of the row unit. The load sensor includes a mechanical element mounted for movement in response to the downward force applied to the row unit; a fluid-containing device containing a movable element coupled to the mechanical element for changing the fluid pressure in response to the movement of the mechanical element; and a transducer coupled to the fluid-containing device for producing an output signal in response to changes in the fluid pressure. An energy storage device, such as an accumulator, may be coupled to the fluid-containing device for receiving a limited amount of fluid in response to changes in the fluid pressure to damp pressure spikes in the output signal of the transducer.

Disclosed herein is an electromagnetic wave shielding dielectric film. The electromagnetic wave shielding dielectric film includes a lower layer and an upper layer. The lower layer is formed of a dielectric in a plate shape. The upper layer is formed of a dielectric stacked on the lower layer, and is configured to form a periodic pattern of protrusion and depression structures.

The invention provides systems and methods for cooling of power electronic devices with an optimized electromechanical structure. A power electronic device may comprise one or more power transistor components, one or more capacitor components, one or more power interconnect components that may be in electrical communication with the one or more power transistor components and the one or more capacitor components, and one or more heat sink components. The one or more power transistor components and the one or more capacitor components may be in thermal communication with the one or more heat sink components, and each may be located on substantially opposite sides of the one or more heat sink components, such that heat may be transferred from the one or more power transistor components and the one or more capacitor components to the same one or more heat sink components.

A method of absorbing heat from two or more devices can employ a two-phase cooling apparatus that pumps low-pressure coolant through two or more fluidly-connected and series-connected heat sink modules. A flow of subcooled single-phase liquid coolant can be provided to an inlet of a first heat sink module in thermal communication with a first device. Within the first heat sink module, the flow of subcooled single-phase liquid coolant can absorb a first amount of heat from the first device as sensible heat. The flow of subcooled single-phase liquid coolant can be transported from an outlet of the first heat sink module to an inlet of a second heat sink module. Within the second heat sink module, the flow of subcooled single-phase liquid coolant can absorb a second amount of heat from the second device partially as sensible heat and partially as latent heat and thereby transform to two-phase bubbly flow.

A grate access floor panel comprising a support frame and a plurality of vanes supported by the frame, each of the plurality of vanes having an upstream end and a downstream end with respect to a direction of airflow across the plurality of vanes and faces that extend between the upstream and downstream ends, wherein at least some of the vanes have openings that extend through the faces thereof and have angled tips.

An information processing device includes: one or more information processing device main bodies; a first heat exchanger configured to cool air to be introduced into the one or more information processing device main bodies; an air blower configured to introduce the air into the one or more information processing device main bodies; an evaporator through which discharged air discharged from the one or more information processing device main bodies passes; a receiving pan configured to receive water generated by dew condensation in the first heat exchanger; and a water supply member configured to supply the water in the receiving pan to the evaporator.

A wireless power-supply system (1) performing a wireless power supply between a vehicle (10) and a stop station (20), wherein the wireless power-supply system includes a heat-transfer device (30). The heat-transfer device (30) transfers heat generated due to the wireless power supply to the stop station (20) having high heat capacity from the vehicle (10) having low heat capacity. The heat-transfer device (30) includes a flexible heat-transfer member (32), in which the flexible heat-transfer member has tiltability in a moving direction of the vehicle (10).

Provided is a sheet-type heat pipe that has a sufficient heat transport capability and can be effortlessly installed in a thin chassis. The sheet-type heat pipe is made of a sealed container formed by stacking and joining together at least two etched sheet bodies formed as metal foil sheets. Particularly, etching or pressing is performed on the surface of the sheet bodies to join at least two sheet bodies such that fine concavities and convexities can be formed on the inner surface of the container and the sheet-type heat pipe with a sufficient heat transport capability can thus be obtained even when the sealed container is thinly formed with its thickness not larger than, e.g. 0.5 mm. More particularly, since the thickness of the container is thinly formed, the sheet-type heat pipe of the present invention can be effortlessly installed in a thin chassis of a mobile terminal.

Mount rack frames for storing attaching vertically aligned devices are described herein. The preferred embodiment of a second mount rack frame comprises at least two laterally aligned modular rigid support structures along a rack base with mechanical fasteners that reversibly insert to adjust a dimension of a rigid multi-component support structure. Rigid modular support structures also align with and mechanically attach vertically to each other to increase storage space. Another embodiment of the second modular mount rack frame comprises a single rigid modular support structure that also can vertically align and attach another multi-component support structures without lateral alignment of these structures along a rack base. A third mount rack frame comprises two rigid vertical components, two rigid horizontal components and two rack base legs. None of the disclosed frames or other embodiments thereof require attachments to structures external to the frame to be free standing with or without attached stored devices, except for lowermost contact with a horizontal surface.

A thermally and structurally optimized disaster resistant housing for a vertically stacked array of computer digital data storage devices such as hard drives is provided. An external, fire resistant housing has an internally mounted water resistant enclosure for the array. The water resistant enclosure includes a plurality of much thicker plates than known which significantly increase dissipation of heat and simultaneously greater increase the crush and impact load resistance of the device. An automatic method is also provided for producing complex molded gypsum or cement components.

An example module is provided herein. The module includes a tray and a cable support member. The tray includes a cage, a handle mechanism, a tray handle, and a tray midplane. The cage receives an electronic component and the handle mechanism rotates the cage using a cage lever and a cam member between a closed position, a top open position, and a bottom open position. The tray handle releases the tray from an engaged position. The tray midplane provides a connector for the electronic component. The cable support member provides a movable connection between the tray midplane and an enclosure backplane.

A rack unit for providing a server to be mounted within a storage rack is provided. The rack unit includes a set of low-profile drawer slides configured for mounting the rack unit within the storage rack, the set of low-profile drawer slides configured for mounting upon rails; wherein, the chassis includes at least one wide section for housing computer components. A server and a storage rack are described.

A laminated body of a component incorporating substrate includes insulating base members. First and second mounting terminals of a first electronic component abut on a conductor-less surface of a first insulating base member. A first interlayer connection conductor in the first insulating base member connects the first mounting terminal to a conductor pattern. Third and fourth mounting terminals of a second electronic component abut on a conductor-less surface of a second insulating base member. A second interlayer connection conductor in the second insulating base member connects the third mounting terminal to a conductor pattern that abuts a conductor pattern of the first insulating base member which faces toward the second insulating base member, and the conductor pattern of the second insulating base member faces toward the first insulating base member in a lamination direction.

A multilayer substrate comprises: a stack having a plurality of insulating base materials; a first component arranged within the stack at a first level in a thickness direction of the stack; a second component arranged within the stack at a second level different from the first level and arranged so that, in a plan view, at least a portion of the second component overlaps with a portion of the first component; and a supplementary member arranged to at least partly exist in a range, in a thickness direction, as high as or higher than a lower end of the second component and as high as or lower than an upper end of the second component, and in a plan view, within a region of a projected area of the first component not overlapped with the second component, the supplementary member having a rigidness higher than the insulating base materials.

A module component includes a substrate including a liquid crystal polymer resin sheet, and an electronic component mounted on the substrate by ultrasonic bonding, wherein the electronic component includes a plurality of first substrate connecting electrodes including respective planar conductors provided on a substrate mounting surface separately from each other, and connected at a same potential or substantially a same potential, and the substrate includes a first component connecting electrode including a planar conductor provided on a component loading surface, and bonded to the plurality of first substrate connecting electrodes.

This electronic circuit, includes a set of electronic boards intended to support components and linked together by joining elements. The joining elements include curved flexible printed circuits linking two opposing ends of two electronic boards running side by side, the said curved flexible printed circuits being foldable for erecting the electronic circuit into a volume so that the electronic circuit comprises electronic boards placed opposite one another.

A printed circuit board includes a differential pair of transmission lines. The differential pair of transmission lines includes a first signal transmission line and a second signal transmission line. The first signal transmission line includes a first via and a second via. The second transmission line includes a third via and a fourth via. A first distance between a center of the first via and a center of the third via is equal to a first value. A second distance between a center of the second via and a center of the fourth via is equal to the first value. A third distance between the center of the first via and the center of the second via is equal to a second value. A fourth distance between the center of the third via and the center of the fourth via is not equal to the second value.

This disclosure describes systems, methods, and apparatus for frequency tuning a power source so as to optimize power delivery to a plasma load as well as systems, methods, and apparatus for identifying characteristics and/or changes in characteristics of a plasma load. In particular, a secondary power signal can be applied concurrently with a primary power signal, the secondary power signal having a substantially lower power level, so as to tune for a global optimum of a measure of performance and/or identifying characteristics and/or changes in characteristics of a plasma load. The secondary power signal can comprise a low level signal that is jointly generated with or combined with the primary power signal, or it can comprise noise either inherent to the primary power signal or added to the primary power signal.

A scalable lighting control system comprising a plurality of room lighting control systems each comprising a load controller electrically connected to a lighting load and one or more in-room devices, such as lighting control devices, occupancy sensors, and light sensors. Each in-room device is configured for transmitting room control messages to the load controller over a room wireless network. The scalable lighting control system further comprises a plurality of network bridges each configured for removably coupling to at least one load controller of a room lighting control system to connect the room lighting control system to a centralized wireless network. Each network bridge is configured for receiving centralized control messages over the centralized wireless network and transmitting the centralized control messages to the connected load controller. The load controller is configured for controlling the electrically connected lighting load in response to the room control messages and the centralized control messages.

A lighting system includes a plurality of lighting devices including a controller transmitting and receiving data by using near field communications (NFC) The lighting system further includes a control device that collects identification information for the plurality of respective lighting devices through the NFC communications before the plurality of lighting devices are installed. The control device also generates settings data to control the plurality of lighting devices, based on the identification information, and then transmits the generated settings data to the plurality of respective lighting devices.

The invention relates to a method for transmitting information from an operating device (K) for lamps (L), in particular a converter for LEDs, to a control unit (ST) connected to the operating device (K) via voltage supply lines (8, 9) thereof, having the following steps: the control unit (ST) preferably periodically temporarily interrupts an AC supply voltage (Vin) of the operating device (K), and the operating device (K) applies a voltage signal (V2) to the voltage supply lines (8, 9) during the interruption of the AC supply voltage (Vin) which is evaluated by the control units (ST) as information.

A smart home-care lighting system includes a lighting device having a portion that is light transmittable. The lighting device receives therein an illumination module for purpose of illumination, a detection module for detecting an outside environment, an alarm module and a sound effect module operable in combination with the detection module for indication and alarming, and an image pickup module for capturing and recording images. The lighting device also includes, arranged therein, a microprocessor and a main control module for transmitting and storing personal habits and health information. The device is arranged such that image can be captured in ranges that does not overlap to provide a surveillance range of 360-degree full view and operation can be made with the main control module for determination for proper action to be taken and may be used in combination with household appliances to construct a smart home-care system that benefit home members.

A dimming and correlated color temperature (CCT) tuning lighting system comprises a controller and multiple light-emitting diode (LED)-based lighting devices. Each lighting device comprises a control circuit, at least two LED driving circuits, and at least two types of LED-based light sources. When the controller receives low voltage dimming and CCT tuning signals from its inputs, it generates pulse-width modulated (PWM) dimming and CCT tuning signals delivered to the control circuit and at least two LED driving circuits in each of the multiple lighting devices, which then individually power the at least two types of LED-based light sources to emit a light with a lighting level and a CCT. The controller may be integrated in each of the multiple lighting devices to further simplify system design, ultimately achieving the lowest cost.

A display device suitable for increasing in size, a display device where display unevenness is suppressed, or a display device that can display an image on a curved surface is provided. The display device includes a first display panel, a second display panel, a first adhesive layer, and a substrate. The first and second display panels each include a first region, a second region, and a barrier layer. The barrier layer includes a portion overlapping with the first region and a portion overlapping with the second region. The first region includes a region transmitting visible light. The second region can display an image. The barrier layer contains an inorganic insulating material and includes a region in contact with the first adhesive layer and a region with a thickness of 10 nm to 2 μm. The display device includes a region where the substrate, the first adhesive layer, the first region of the second display panel, and the second region of the first display panel overlap each other.

An over-the-range microwave oven including a duct unit configured to direct air from the back of the oven to the front and further includes an integrated duct module. The duct unit includes: a first panel at the bottom, a pair of second panels forming both lateral side surfaces of the duct unit. Water vapor generated from food being cooked flows along an enclosed flow path and thus is unaffected by the exhaust air flow. A humidity sensor is disposed on the first panel and operable to detect water vapor in the cooking unit.

A method in a base station is disclosed for determining connection establishment between the base station and a mobile terminal, where the base station is moving. When the base station receives a first connection request, the base station refrains from establishing a connection between the base station and the mobile terminal. When the base station receives a second connection request from the mobile terminal, the base station determines whether or not to establish the connection between the base station and the mobile terminal.

A host electronic device is configured to share a telephone call with a participant electronic device. The host electronic device includes a transceiver, a wireless communication module and a controller. The controller is configured to: establish a direct wireless connection with the participant electronic device; process and present incoming call data received from an outside device through a speaker and/or a display device at the host electronic device; forward the incoming call data to the participant electronic device using the direct wireless connection for presentation of the incoming call data through a speaker and/or a display device at the participant device; receive participant call data from the participant electronic device using the direct wireless connection; process and present the received participant call data through a speaker and/or display device at the host electronic device; and forward the participant call data to the outside device.

The present invention relates to a method for performing a random access procedure in a wireless communication system supporting repeated transmission of a same signal, and an apparatus for same, and more specifically, to a method and an apparatus for same, the method comprising the steps of: repeatedly transmitting a physical random access channel (PRACH) signal by using a PRACH resource; and receiving a random access response signal from a specific time section, as a response to the PRACH signal, wherein the random access response signal includes information related to the number of repeated transmissions of the PRACH signal.

A method in a base station for controlling a Random Access, RA, procedure is provided. The base station initiates (201) an RA procedure on a Secondary Cell, SCell, in a User Equipment, UE, by sending to the UE a Physical Downlink Control Channel, PDCCH, order for a RA procedure on the SCell. At initiation of RA, the base station starts (202) a timer in the base station. The timer is a timer for random access failure detection associated with said initiated RA procedure. If the RA procedure has not been completed before expiry of said timer, the base station sends (205) a command to the UE, commanding the UE to deactivate the SCell, and thereby stopping the RA procedure on the SCell.

The present disclosure relates a method and apparatus for transmitting uplink control information on a plurality of serving cells for supporting carrier aggregation technology between base stations. The method of a user equipment may include comparing a number K of Uplink Control Informations (UCIs) to be simultaneously transmitted and a number M of UCIs available for simultaneous transmission and selecting M UCIs from UCIs to be simultaneously transmitted when the number K is greater than the number M and transmitting, to a Base Station (BS), the selected M UCIs through a Physical Uplink Control CHannel (PUCCH) of each serving cell. The number M is less than or equal to the N, and the number M is a natural number greater than or equal to 1.

A method, computer program and apparatus operate when resuming data transmission/reception upon activation of a serving cell, or after a long in-device coexistence interference avoidance gap, to determine whether to report to a network access node an in-device coexistence interference indicator value and send the in-device coexistence interference indicator value to the network access node, The in-device coexistence interference indicator value is reported to the network access node for a certain period if any periodic channel quality indication resource is configured for the cell, or if an aperiodic channel quality indication for the cell is requested from the network access node.

Aspects relate to a priority mechanism for prioritizing network identifiers, for example SSIDs. As described herein, a UE may obtain one or more network identifier sets, each of the one or more network identifier sets having one or more network identifiers for a first RAT and a priority level, determine one or more of the network identifier sets that are under control of a second RAT, and after the determining, manage connections to the first RAT based, at least in part, on the priority level of the network identifier sets.

Methods, systems, and devices are describe for dynamic medium access control (MAC) algorithm selection in a wireless communication system. A device, e.g., a user equipment or base station, may identify a channel parameter associated with a first channel used for communications in the wireless communication system. The device may dynamically select, based at least in part on the channel parameter, a first MAC algorithm from a plurality of MAC algorithms available for communications using the first channel. The wireless communication system may be a millimeter wave wireless communication system and may, in some examples, use directional or beamformed transmissions.

Multiple channels are aggregated. In an example embodiment, first data is transmitted on a first channel to a wireless device, and second data is simultaneously transmitted on a second channel to the wireless device. The first data and the second data are transmitted in a coordinated manner by aggregating the first channel and the second channel. Various example channel characteristics and combinations thereof are described. Different data allocation options for aggregated channels are described. Other alternative implementations are also presented herein.

The present invention relates to a wireless communication and, more specifically, to a method for transmitting an HARQ) response by a UE in a wireless communication system, and an apparatus for the same. The method includes receiving an E-PDCCH signal on at least one of a plurality of enhanced physical downlink control channel (E-PDCCH) sets, each E-PDCCH set including a plurality of resources units indexed per E-PDCCH set; and transmitting the HARQ response using a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) resource determined using the index of the first resource unit among one or more resource units carrying the E-PDCCH signal, wherein the index of the first resource unit is determined on the basis of the E-PDCCH set having the lowest index among the plurality of E-PDCCH sets when specific conditions are satisfied.

The present disclosure provides techniques for signaling sets of virtual cell IDs available for use in communicating with UEs. Such knowledge may allow a UE to enhance processing its own downlink channels when similar downlink channels for other UEs are multiplexed within the same physical resource block (PRB).

A method includes dynamically determining transmission parameters for transmission of beacon frames corresponding to a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) supported by an access point. The transmission parameters being based on zero or more client devices connected to the WLAN or monitored data indicative of a load at the access point.