US07784598B2
A bi-directional escalator includes an ascending escalator and a descending escalator arranged in parallel and side-by-side with the ascending escalator. A driving machine drives an ascending driving unit and a descending driving unit at the same time. A controller controls operation of the driving machine. The driving machine includes an electric motor and a reduction gearbox connected to the electric motor. The reduction gearbox has a first output shaft and a second output shaft both arranged on the same side of the reduction gearbox.
US07784592B1
A method is provided for balancing a disc brake rotor having a first annular friction plate, a second annular friction plate, and a core gap. The first annular friction plate includes a first circumferential surface. The second annular friction plate includes a second circumferential surface. Respective regions are determined for removing material within the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface for balancing the disc brake rotor if the disc brake rotor is out of balance. A rotary straddle cutting tool is aligned with respective regions of the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface. Material is cut from the respective regions of the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface with the rotary straddle cutting tool. Cutting material from the respective regions includes removing material within the width of the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface.
US07784588B2
A method of assigning destination calls to cars (A-F) in an elevator system (20) having a plurality of hoistways (21-23) in which there is more than one car in each hoistway includes determining (33) the time for each car to respond to the call Among the cars with an acceptable response time, a determination is made regarding (34) the amount of additional delay in the hoistway that assignment of the call to one car will impose on the either car in the same hoistway. The call is assigned to that car which creates the least additional delay for cars in any hoistway.
US07784580B2
A fuel supply system component protective construction includes a high-pressure fuel pump (21), a protector (41), and a pin member (51). The high-pressure fuel pump (21) includes a block (31) and a union (23). The block (31) is endowed with a relatively high rigidity with respect to the union (23). The protector (41) confronts the union (23) and the block (31) at a certain distance. The pin member (51) is provided between the block (31) and the protector (41). When the high-pressure fuel pump (21) and the protector (41) shift in the direction to mutually approach one another, the pin member (51) contacts the block (31) before the protector (41) contacts the union (23), so that a resilient force operates upon the high-pressure fuel pump (21) and the protector (41).
US07784578B2
A safety system for a vehicle includes a window actuator connected to a window system of the vehicle for moving a window to an open position, a door lock actuator connected to a door lock system of the vehicle for moving the door lock system to the unlocked position, a seat belt actuator connected to a seat belt release connector for disengaging the release connector from a first connector of a seat belt system, a trunk system for opening a trunk compartment and a trigger in operational connection with the actuator(s). When the trigger is operated, the system is substantially simultaneously actuated moving the window to the open position, moving the door lock system to the unlocked position, disengaging the release connector from the first connector of the seat belt system, and/or opening part of the trunk system.
US07784577B2
In a driving-force distribution control unit, a first transfer-torque calculation unit calculates an input-torque sensitive transfer torque, a second transfer-torque calculation unit calculates a steering-angle/yaw-rate sensitive transfer torque, and a third transfer-torque calculation unit calculates a tack-in preventing transfer torque. In the third transfer-torque calculation unit, tack-in prevention control is performed during turning at a high speed not only when the accelerator opening is substantially reduced and the current accelerator opening becomes small, but also when the torque amount to be reduced by a traction control unit is more than a preset value. Further, when at least one of a side-slip prevention control unit and an ABS is started, tack-in prevention control is prohibited.
US07784575B2
A hybrid vehicle drive control system is configured to perform engine startup when switching from an electric drive mode to a hybrid drive mode, without creating a sense of output torque loss. In particular, a controller selectively controls a first clutch disposed between the engine and the motor/generator and a second clutch disposed between the motor/generator and a drive wheel to switch between an electric drive mode in which the first clutch is released and the second clutch is engaged, and a hybrid drive mode in which both the first and second clutches are engaged. The controller sets the second torque transfer capacity to a value that is more than zero and less than the target motor/generator torque of the motor/generator when switching from the electric drive mode to the hybrid drive mode and when starting the engine.
US07784566B2
A solid body contains a surfactant and crushed walnut hulls. The solid body is shaped to predetermined dimensions that permit passage through the central interior opening of drill pipe. The solid body dissolves in drilling mud for delivery of a pill to the annulus through the drill bit nozzles. The pill is an effective treatment against bit balling.
US07784565B2
A top drive system for wellbore operations, the top drive system including motor apparatus, a main shaft driven by the motor apparatus, and sensing apparatus for sensing bending of the main shaft; and, in certain aspects, the system providing information regarding the extent of main shaft bending and/or for warning an operator of an undesirable amount of main shaft bending. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
US07784564B2
Apparatus and methods to perform operations in a wellbore using downhole tools having movable sections are described. In one described example, a downhole tool for use in a wellbore includes a first extendable anchor to contact a wall of the wellbore to fix the tool at a location in the wellbore. The downhole tool also includes a first tool of the downhole tool to perform a first operation at the location in the wellbore, and a second tool of the downhole tool spaced from the first tool and to perform a second operation. Additionally, the downhole tool includes an extendable member to move the second tool to the location while the anchor is in contact with the wall of the wellbore to perform the second operation after the first operation.
US07784560B2
A fastener-driving tool is provided with a cap assembly which includes a switch mechanism that permits the tool to be operated in one of two firing modes of operation. The switch mechanism comprises a two-position switch mechanism such that when the switch mechanism is disposed at a first one of its two positions, the tool will be able to operate in a fully automatic continuous firing mode of operation so as to continuously fire fasteners into a substrate as long as the workpiece contact element and the trigger mechanism are disposed at their depressed positions, or alternatively, when the switch mechanism is disposed at the second one of the two positions, the tool can be operated in a one-shot firing mode such that the tool can only fire a single fastener, either in accordance with, for example, a sequential-firing mode of operation or a bump-firing mode of operation, until the trigger mechanism is released and again depressed.
US07784554B2
An improved firefighting vehicle of a type supporting a pump system (e.g., a fire pump system) is provided. The firefighting vehicle generally includes a chassis and an operator cab. The operator cab is movable (e.g.; tiltable, etc.) relative to the chassis between a transit position and a service position. The firefighting vehicle also includes a fire pump system supported by the chassis at least partially under a rear portion of the operator cab. Positioning the fire pump system in such a location may advantageously allow for a vehicle with improved maneuverability or handling, reduced overall length, reduced overall height, additional capacity for storage, and/or with a fire pump system that is relatively convenient to service.
US07784553B2
A downhole waterflood regulator installs in a side pocket mandrel to regulate fluid flow in a waterflood completion. The regulator has an internal piston and can have a check dart. The piston and check dart regulate fluid flow within the regulator's housing. Packings on the regulator's housing packoff the mandrel's ports that communicate with a surrounding annulus. When initially installed in the mandrel, a blanking plug on the regulator's latch prevents fluid flow through the regulator so that the regulator acts as a dummy valve and allows operators to set and test packers or perform other operations. To begin the waterflood operation, operators use a slickline to remove the blanking plug disposed in the latch. With the plug removed, fluid communicated from the tubing string can pass through the ported latch and into the regulator where the piston and check dart regulate the fluid flow out to the annulus.
US07784552B2
An installation system for installing a liner in a well includes drilling while simultaneously running the liner. A string of drill pipe with a bottom hole assembly including a drill bit on a lower end is lowered into the liner while the liner is suspended at the rig floor. The bottom hole assembly engages a lower sub of the liner for torque transmission. A running tool secured to the drill pipe engages the upper sub such that the running tool supports the weight of the liner and transmits torque. The drill pipe and liner are rotated to drill deeper into the wellbore. The liner hanger can be set to engage the casing, then released and reset at a different point.
US07784550B2
A kit of parts which is assembled to form downhole apparatus comprises a swellable member, which expands upon contact with at least one predetermined fluid, and a connector. The swellable member has a first mating profile towards a first end and a second mating profile towards a second, opposing end. The connector has a mating profile configured to mate with each of the first and second mating profiles of the swellable member. The connector can therefore be connected to either the first and second ends of the swellable member. The connector may be an end connector, or may connect the swellable member to a second swellable member. In either case, the connector may define an arresting surface against which the swellable member abuts when expanding. The kit of parts can be adapted to and installed on any well tubular, and may form any of a variety of tools.
US07784531B1
A method for providing for thermal conduction using an array of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). An array of vertically oriented CNTs is grown on a substrate having high thermal conductivity, and interstitial regions between adjacent CNTs in the array are partly or wholly filled with a filler material having a high thermal conductivity so that at least one end of each CNT is exposed. The exposed end of each CNT is pressed against a surface of an object from which heat is to be removed. The CNT-filler composite adjacent to the substrate provides improved mechanical strength to anchor CNTs in place and also serves as a heat spreader to improve diffusion of heat flux from the smaller volume (CNTs) to a larger heat sink.
US07784528B2
A heat exchanger system includes a duct having a duct wall with a duct wall outer surface and a duct wall inner surface; and a heat exchanger partial shell hermetically joined to the duct wall inner surface. The heat exchanger partial shell and a shell portion of the duct wall inner surface constitute a heat exchanger. A heat exchanger inlet manifold is defined by a nonplanar inlet sheet of material hermetically joined to the duct wall outer surface. A heat exchanger outlet manifold is defined by a nonplanar outlet sheet of material hermetically joined to the duct wall outer surface. A heat exchanger inlet opening extends through the duct wall between the inlet manifold and the heat exchanger, and a heat exchanger outlet opening extends through the duct wall between the outlet manifold and the heat exchanger.
US07784524B2
An apparatus and a method for producing a casting mold are provided, according to which the casting mold having a complex shape can be obtained with stable quality. The apparatus comprises a mold having a cavity therein, a steam supply unit, a steam supply passage connected to the cavity, steam discharge passages, flow regulators disposed in the steam discharge passages to regulate an amount of the steam discharged from the cavity, and a control unit for controlling the flow regulators. After a resin-coated sand prepared by coating a refractory aggregate with a binder resin is injected into the cavity of the heated mold, superheated steam is supplied into the cavity. At this time, the control unit controls the flow regulators such that the cavity is uniformly filled with the superheated steam.
US07784501B2
Systems and methods are provided for distributing a product, like hydrogen, contained in a carrier to a user, and for recovering the spent from the user. In one embodiment, the invention is a system for distributing a product releasably incorporated within a carrier, recovering spent, and conveying spent to a rehabilitation facility. In this embodiment, the system comprises a mobile delivery vehicle, the vehicle comprising a first storage vessel for storing fresh and for dispensing fresh using a connected fresh dispensing apparatus and for receiving and storing spent from a spent dispensing apparatus, the storage vessel further including means for separating fresh from spent. The system further includes fresh, spent, and a first user. The first user comprises a fresh storage vessel for receiving, storing, and dispensing fresh, and further comprises a first spent storage vessel for receiving, storing, and dispensing spent. The system further includes a fresh dispensing apparatus for linking the first storage vessel and the fresh storage vessel of the first user for dispensing of fresh to the first user, and a spent removal apparatus for linking the first storage vessel and the spent storage vessel of the first user for removal of fresh from the first user for storage in the first storage vessel. Use of a mobile delivery vehicle to deliver fresh and recover spent for rehabilitation from a plurality of users avoids logistic inefficiencies, and reduces potential for contamination and/or loss of product, carrier, fresh, and spent.
US07784497B2
A gas panel assembly having at least one U-shaped MSM interconnection component is disclosed where the interconnection component straddles at least a pair of adjacent modular inserts and is fastened to planar support plate such that the fluidic inserts are held immobile.
US07784496B2
A gas delivery apparatus having a manifold block configured to create a fluid flow path, a horizontal inlet port coupled to the manifold block at a first side in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to receive a supply gas, a pneumatic valve coupled to the manifold block at a first end configured to prevent unauthorized activation of fluid flow, the pneumatic valve in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and horizontal inlet port, a purge valve coupled to the manifold block in fluid communication with the fluid flow path positioned adjacent the pneumatic valve, and a vertical purge port coupled to the manifold block at a first end, the vertical purge port positioned between the purge valve and the pneumatic valve and having a purge gas input/output connection at a second end, wherein the horizontal inlet port is positioned perpendicular to the vertical purge port.
US07784493B2
A manual valve of a hydraulic pressure control system for an automatic transmission includes: a valve body including a first exhaust passage that includes an exhausting hole and an intake hole that are communicated with a drive range port in a neutral range, such that a transmission fluid, which is supplied from the drive range port when the vehicle is shifted from drive to neutral, is exhausted; and a hydraulic pressure exhaust control unit that is disposed in the exhaust hole so as to control an exhaust amount according to an exhaust pressure.
US07784481B2
Disclosed is an actuating device for fixtures, particularly plumbing fixtures, comprising at least one input unit that is provided with a plurality of sensors which are connected to a control unit, and at least one drive unit for at least one closing device for at least one fluid pipe, especially a valve of a water pipe that can be controlled by means of the control unit. At least three sensors are arranged in a substantially regular manner essentially along a closed curve. The drive unit is triggered when signals of at least two adjacent sensors are detected.
US07784478B2
A system, apparatus and method for processing flat articles, such as semiconductor wafers, with acoustical energy. In a cleaning process, the inventive system, apparatus and method can remove particles from both sides of a wafer more efficiently and effectively. In one aspect, the invention is a system for processing flat articles comprising: a first dispenser for applying a liquid to a first surface of a flat article; a second dispenser for applying liquid to a second surface of a flat article; a first transducer assembly positioned so as to transmit acoustical energy to the first surface of the flat article; and a second transducer assembly positioned so as to transmit acoustical energy to the second surface of the flat article.
US07784474B2
The present invention describes an undercarriage washer including a stabilizing skid plate and an outlet that permits non-vertical fluid discharge. The washer is adapted for use with a high-pressure washing fluid. The undercarriage washer includes a rigid tube and an angled inlet and an outlet. A skid plate is fixedly secured to the tube proximate to the outlet. The skid plate provides sufficient lateral support so that a high-pressure discharge does not rotate the washer stream. A non-vertical discharge angle permits cleaning of large undercarriage parts.
US07784468B2
Surgical implements used during an operating procedure are detected in human tissue. Markers attached to the surgical implements change their impedance at a preselected frequency in the presence of an electromagnetic field. Each of the markers is thereby provided with signal-identifying characteristics. The signal-identifying characteristics are detected outside the operating room in an accurate, reliable manner. Potential interference with operating room electronic instrumentation is avoided, the possibility of operator error is reduced and system cost and space requirements are substantially lowered.
US07784441B2
A vehicle includes a direct start engine, an automatic transmission having a threshold fluid pressure sufficient for enabling operation of the transmission when the engine is off, a controller, and a fuel delivery system. The controller determines the presence of predetermined engine states, and optimizes a stop-and-go functionality of the engine. The fuel delivery system includes a motor and an integrated pump assembly having a secondary high-pressure (HP) fuel pump which is selectively connectable to a rotatable shaft of the motor, and a secondary low-pressure (LP) fluid pump which is continuously connected to the shaft. The motor continuously energizes the secondary LP fluid pump via the rotatable shaft to thereby maintain the threshold fluid pressure during a first or second engine state, and selectively energizes the secondary HP fuel pump via the rotatable shaft to maintain the threshold fuel pressure during the second engine state.
US07784438B2
The present invention relates to a mounting module in which an oil control valve for tappet control is mounted in a cylinder deactivation engine. The mounting module of the invention is separately fabricated and coupled to the cylinder head and has various oil passages connecting the oil paths between the oil control valve and the cylinder head with each other and thereby the die structure for molding the cylinder head is simplified. Because of its separately fabricating process it is possible to design the part freely and in a small size and to reduce the cost of die, material, manufacturing and its weight as well. Furthermore, the number of related parts such as steel ball, taker plug, etc. and unnecessary portions in the shape are considerably reduced, thus providing an optimized structure and reducing the manufacturing cost as well as its weight.
US07784433B2
A heat exchanger for cooling reaction gas, wherein the respective ends of heat exchanger tubes, through which the reaction gas flows, are inserted in a respective tube plate and are surrounded by a jacket, at the two ends of which are provided a respective end chamber that is partially delimited by one of the tube plates and serves for the supply and withdrawal of the reaction gas; water, as cooling agent, flows through the inner chamber of the heat exchanger that is surrounded by the jacket and that is divided by a partition, extending perpendicular to the heat exchanger tubes, which extend through it, into two partial chambers disposed one after the other in the direction of flow of the reaction gas, each partial chamber being provided with its own supply connectors and outlet connectors for the cooling agent; boiling water flows through the partial chamber that is disposed on the inlet side for reaction gas and that is connected via a supply line and withdrawal lines with a water/steam drum; feed water flows through the partial chamber that is disposed on the outlet side for the reaction gas and that is connected via a withdrawal line with the water/steam drum. The partition between the two partial chambers permits the passage of the cooling agent that flows in the inner chamber of the heat exchanger.
US07784427B2
An ear prop prevents a pet's ears from contacting or substantially contacting food or water in a bowl or dish. The ear prop has members for elevating, supporting or displacing the pet's ears, and the ear prop may comprise a shield. A dish for holding food or water for a pet is constructed to keep the pet's ears from contacting or substantially contacting food or water in the dish. The dish comprises a bowl section and an ear prop section. The bowl section has a floor piece with a boundary continuously connectable to a boundary of a side wherein another boundary of the side defines an opening of the dish. The ear prop section is operably connected to the opening to provide a mechanism for elevating, supporting or displacing the pet's ears.
US07784423B1
A delivery system for dispensing material onto a semiconductor wafer is provided that includes an opening device and a dispensing device. The opening device is operable to open a packet of material. The dispensing device is operable to dispense the material from the packet onto the semiconductor wafer.
US07784420B2
A cover system for a boat that can be articulated between a lowered covering position, to provide some level of protection to the interior of the boat when the boat is not in use, and one or more other positions. The one or more other positions may include, for example, a raised covering position, a raised retracted position, a lowered retracted position, and/or any other suitable position, as desired.
US07784418B2
A boat docking unit for small boats secures a boat to a dock structure without use of ropes, anchors or fenders. The unit has a pair of docking arms each having an elongated tubular housing, a telescoping member capable of telescoping movement within the housing. A pair of compression springs mounted in the housing in contact with the telescoping member dampens the wave force so as to restrict yaw of the boat docked at the pier. The docking arms pivotally secure the boat to the dock structure allowing a limited pitch motion of the boat.
US07784407B2
A storage system for containers including a plurality of cells for reception of containers and means of transferring containers within and outside of the cells. The transfer means include shuttles for translation between the cells and ensilage trolleys which are carried by the shuttles to face a cell and which are motorized to enter and exit from the cell and transfer containers between the cell and the shuttle. The ensilage trolleys are fitted with at least one transport unit made up of a base frame with motorized wheels for running on rails for the entrance and exit movement and with loading platform arranged above the base frame and designed to support a container. Between the platform and the base frame there are fluid hoisting sets distributed longitudinally to the trolley for controlled hoisting of the platform and which also realize elastic attenuation parts.
US07784404B2
A safe and arm device includes a booster base assembly having a booster base housing and a barrier. The booster base housing includes a shaft port extending substantially in line with a longitudinal axis, at least three initiator ports disposed about the axis, and a matching number of explosive transfer paths in respective communication with the at least three initiator ports. The barrier includes a matching number of fire-train transfer ports and a drive shaft. The drive shaft of the barrier is coupled within the shaft port of the booster base housing allowing the barrier to be selectively rotationally positioned about the axis into at least one of a safe position and an arm and fire position, allowing the fire-train transfer ports to be substantially aligned with the explosive transfer paths when the barrier is positioned in the arm and fire position. A booster basket assembly is also provided.
US07784400B2
An improved mechanism for directing the motion of a knife mechanism in a bale wrapping apparatus which reduces actuation and acceleration forces in the knife mechanism thereby improving operational efficiency and durability of the mechanism and actuator.
US07784399B2
Recyclable waste byproducts are efficiently collected for recycling at stores or other locations by compacting the recyclable waste as layers in a composite bale with cardboard. The composite bales can be formed using existing cardboard balers that retailers or other stores typically already have for baling recyclable cardboard. In one embodiment, the composite bales are preferably formed with a bottom layer of cardboard, a middle layer of one or more types of recyclable waste byproducts, and a top layer of cardboard. The layered structure can be modified to omit one of the cardboard layers or to add additional waste byproduct or cardboard layers.
US07784395B2
A sealing system for a pump having a plunger includes a housing having an internal chamber adapted to receive a portion of the plunger. Primary and secondary seals are located within the internal chamber and adapted to sealingly engage the plunger. The primary seal communicates with the fluid being pumped. A barrier fluid chamber contains a barrier fluid in contact with the primary seal and the secondary seal. A pressure referencing device has an inlet port in communication with the pumped fluid and an outlet port providing fluid at a pressure magnitude equal to a peak pressure of the pumped fluid. A pressurizing device is in communication with the fluid at the peak pressure and the barrier fluid to maintain the barrier fluid pressure at a magnitude greater than the peak pressure of the pumped fluid such that the pumped fluid is restricted from leaking past the primary seal.
US07784394B2
A butt joining method is provided that is capable of joining together two members with high strength and high accuracy by utilizing plastic deformation. A bolt-shaped member having a female part at one end thereof and a piston rod having three annular grooves on a forward end part (male part) fittable to the female part are butted against each other with the female and male parts being fitted to each other. In this state, the side wall of the female part is radially pushed into the annular grooves on the piston rod by mechanical clinching technique. At this time, the pushing process is performed so that clinch portions formed by the pushing process are staggered between mutually adjacent ones of the annular grooves, thereby ensuring the desired joining strength and suppressing the elongation of the material, and thus preventing opening of the butt joint between the bolt-shaped member and the piston rod.
US07784392B1
The present invention is a hydraulic locking cylinder assembly comprising a bi-directional control relief valve integrated with a piston. More particularly, the present invention is a bi-directional control relief valve for a hydraulic cylinder, fully integrated with a piston, and having a single poppet valve that performs the function of both a direction control valve and a relief valve.
US07784390B1
There is disclosed a solid state non-lethal directed energy weapon. The non-lethal weapon may include a solid-state source to generate a high-power millimeter-wave initial wavefront, a main reflector, and a sub-reflector to reflect the initial wavefront to the main reflector. The main reflector may direct the reflected wavefront in a bore-sighted direction toward a target. The wavefront directed by the main reflector may have a power density selected to deliver a non-lethal deterring effect on the target.
US07784388B2
A blade clamping device comprises a main body which includes two opposited sidewalls and a base plate connected therebetween for defining a cavity for receiving a blade therein. A fixing device mounted between the two sidewalls. A pivot lever is pivotly mounted on the main body about an axis for driving the fixing device to fix or release the blade. A spring is biased between the main body and the pivot lever, which can hold the pivot lever in a predetermined position at which the fixing device clamps the blade tightly. The blade clamping device of the present invention can be kept in the position where the blade is released such that the blade can be easily detached or inserted as required. Furthermore, the operation becomes convenient and easy because of the short moving distance of the operation handle when an operator turns round the pivot lever to fix or release blade.
US07784386B2
A paper cutting apparatus is disclosed as including a cylindrical cutting roller with a number of closed-loop cutting ridges on its outer cylindrical surface and a support roller, in which the cutting roller is rotatable relative to the support roller to move a piece of paper or cardboard material relative to and between the cutting roller and support roller to cut out part of the piece of paper or cardboard material.
US07784380B2
The invention concerns a drive spindle (1) for the main drive of a rolling stand, which has: a first shaft (3) for transmitting torque from a drive motor (2) to a coupling element, especially to a multiple spline profile, and a second shaft (5) for transmitting the torque from the coupling element, especially the multiple spline profile, via a swivel joint (4) to a roll (6) of the rolling stand, wherein the swivel joint (4) has a wobbler (7), which is rotationally rigidly connected with the roll (6), and a second spindle head (8), which is rotationally rigidly connected with the second shaft (5), and wherein the rotational connection between the wobbler (7) and the spindle head (8) is produced by sliding bearings and a journal (9), which is rotationally rigidly connected with the spindle head (8) but is supported in a way that allows an angle of inclination (α) between the axis of rotation (10) of the roll (6) and the axis of rotation (11) of the second shaft (5). In order to achieve improved transmission of axial forces by the swivel joint, the invention provides that a bearing element (12, 13) for absorbing forces in the direction of the axes of the second shaft (5) and the roll (6) is arranged between the wobbler (7) and the spindle head (8), such that a push rod (14) for transmitting axial forces between the wobbler (7) and the spindle head (8) is arranged between the two bearing elements (12, 13).
US07784373B2
Rotational motion of a male screw member is converted to linear motion of a female screw member that is screw engaged with the male screw member, thereby causing movement of a rod member for clamping an object. When a load from the object becomes larger than a predetermined value, and exceeds the frictional force of a viscous material and a friction plate, the female screw member is gradually turned and clamping continues while movement of the rod member is decelerated.
US07784368B2
An in-line pipe inspection tool has one or more inspection platforms (28, 30) which are connected to an elongate wheeled trolley by link arms (20 to 26). The trolley unit (10, 12) has drive means for driving the point of connection of the first link arm (20, 22) to the trolley (10) relative to the point of connection of the second link arm (24, 26) to the trolley (12), thereby to move the inspection platforms (28, 30) in a direction perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the trolley (10, 12). Thus the inspection platforms (28, 30) are movable which is relative to the trolley (10, 12) to permit the tool to be adapted to pipelines of different diameters. Moreover, the platforms (28, 30) preferably have permanent magnets which contain a rotatable magnet. The rotatable magnet permits the net magnetic field generated by the platform to be varied.
US07784352B2
The present invention relates to a capacitance type pressure measurement apparatus by using a diaphragm, and more specifically to an apparatus for measuring pressure by using a diaphragm capable of measuring pressure of atmospheric pressure or less as well as pressure of atmospheric pressure or more without having a getter pump by fixedly mounting a pressure variable container on a sensor housing having a diaphragm mounted therein.
US07784344B2
Apparatus, methods, and systems for sensing acceleration and magnetic fields in all three axes from a first capacitive bridge sensor having a first proof mass; and a second capacitive bridge sensor having a second proof mass located within the first proof mass. The second proof mass is coupled to the first proof mass by springs that permit movement in the second axis. Sensing of the remaining axis of interest may be done by a third and fourth capacitive bridge configured similar to that of the first and second capacitive bridge sensors. The third and fourth capacitive bridge sensors may be oriented 90 degrees off of the first and second capacitive bridge. An alternative is to locate a third capacitive bridge within the second proof mass.
US07784342B2
A fuel sender unit is provided for deployment on a vehicle having a fuel tank. The fuel sender unit includes a float arm configured to move in relation to the volume of fuel held within the fuel tank. A fuel level sensor is coupled to the float arm. The fuel level sensor produces a resistance that varies with the position of the float arm to thereby produce a multi-slope sender profile including at least first, second, and third successive profile segments. The first profile segment has an average slope that is greater than that of the second profile segment, and the second profile segment has an average slope that is greater than that of the third profile segment.
US07784339B2
The present invention provides an apparatus an methods for detecting the behavior of perforations in a wellbore casing, the apparatus including a sensor array movable within the internal diameter of the casing, the sensor array having one or more sensors located proximate the internal surface of the casing with the sensors being located or oriented such that properties of flow from a proximate perforation can be distinguished from properties of a main flow through the wellbore.
US07784336B2
A load cell detects wheel forces and/or moments at tire test stands in the laboratory and on mobile test vehicles based on the piezoelectric measurement principle. The load cell comprises a base plate and a cover plate facing the base plate as well as a plate-shaped quartz sensor, arranged between the plates in a laminar manner. The base plate and cover plate are designed in an elongated shape and include two or more of the plate-shaped quartz sensors there between. The plate-shaped quartz sensors are arranged in an array with respect to the longitudinal orientation of the plates and are preloaded by the plates.
US07784331B2
The invention provides devices and methods for acoustically determining the properties of the contents of one or more reservoirs in a plurality of reservoirs. Each reservoir is adapted to contain a fluid. An acoustic radiation generator can be positioned in acoustic coupling relationship to each of the reservoirs. Acoustic radiation generated by the acoustic radiation generator is transmitted through each reservoir to an analyzer. The analyzer is capable of analyzing a characteristic of the transmitted acoustic radiation and optionally correlating the characteristic to a property of the reservoirs' contents. Properties that may be determined include volume, temperature, and composition. The invention is particularly suited to determining the properties of the contents of a plurality of reservoirs to allow for accuracy and control over the dispensing of fluids therefrom.
US07784326B2
A friction test apparatus includes a base structure and a receptacle secured to the base structure. At least three lower test balls are positioned in the receptacle. The friction test apparatus includes a motor having a rotatable shaft providing powered rotation of the shaft. An upper test ball is positioned on the shaft in a chuck, and contracts the at least three test balls in the receptacle in use. The chuck may include tapered inner surfaces that frictionally engage the upper test ball along a substantially continuous ring of contact to prevent rotation of the upper test ball relative to the chuck during operation. The receptacle may include a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet to permit fluid in the receptacle to be changed.
US07784324B2
A workpiece gripper arrangement for the automatization of presses, including a transfer arrangement for transferring components between workstations, the transfer arrangement includes a girder or carrier with gripper means for holding the components and the gripper means is supported via coupling parts of which one is connected to the girder and the other to the gripper means and a mechanical locking structure is provided which is operable by relative movement of the coupling arrangement with respect to a support frame on which the gripper means can be deposited.
US07784317B2
The invention describes a safety system (22) for a production unit (1) for bending a sheet metal part (3), in particular for a bending press (2), with a stationary bench beam (13) and a bending tool (4, 5) for a displaceable press beam (13), and with a light beam transmitter and receiver system (23) monitoring an operating region to prevent trapping of a foreign body. The bending tool (5) disposed in the press beam (13) is provided in the form of a slat pack (34) comprising at least one reference slat (35) and at least one tool slat (33) which can be displaced relative to it, which are provided with recesses (60) traversing them in the direction of a thickness (32). When oriented in alignment, these form a beam passage (65) for a light beam (9), in particular a laser light beam, extending parallel with an end face (8) of the press beam (13). An embodiment of the bending tool is possible in the form of a skeleton tool.
US07784313B2
The present cable lock apparatus and method, including a cable having a first end terminated with a shackle, and a lock body providing a throughway to receive the cable in sliding relation such that the lock body may be selectively positioned along the length of the cable. The shackle portion is received within the lock body, and is removable therefrom. A first plunger grip assembly is used to receive the shackle portion and the cable length in a sliding relationship. The first plunger is depressed to a release state, allowing the cable to slid through the lock body, and is released to a grip state. The method of securing an item with the present lock apparatus broadly includes passing the cable through the lock, advancing the lock body along the cable, forming a loop around the item, and securing the first end of the cable to the lock body.
US07784309B2
The present invention relates to a laundry machine having control panel to which a display secured. A laundry machine including a control panel in which a display for displaying operational conditions is provided, the laundry machine includes a mounting part provided in a predetermined portion of the control panel to mount the display therein, at least one insert groove provided at the mounting part, and an insert protrusion provided at the display, corresponding to the at least one insert groove.
US07784304B2
Non-slip, non-constrictive, self-adhesive ice bag device for use with confined patients that comprises a flexible, preferably water-impermeable outer cover with an open end that is sealable with a leak-proof closure means, said cover having a layer of adhesive to temporarily attach said cover, when it is filled with the cooling medium, or one or more cooling packs containing the cooling medium, to the inside or the outside of a patient-care fabric that is arranged to be in close contact with an injured area of the patient, such that said cooling medium is then in close contact with said injured area, without slippage, and without the need for a potentially constrictive strapping and/or wrapping means.
US07784301B2
Frozen products requiring cold insulation are housed inside of the cold-insulating container structured of a vacuum heat-insulating material, and the cold-insulating containers are loaded in a refrigerator vehicle, cold-insulating vehicle, or room-temperature vehicle other than a freezer vehicle for delivery. Each of the peripheral walls, lids, and bottom faces of this container is made of a sheet material enveloping the vacuum heat-insulating material therein. In each of the peripheral walls adjacent to the peripheral walls connected to the lids, the vacuum heat-insulating material is divided along folding line so as to be foldable.
US07784288B2
A method of protecting a turbine compressor of a gas turbine engine that is part of an integrated gasification combined-cycle power generation system that includes an air separation unit that may include the steps of: (1) extracting an amount of compressed air that is compressed by the turbine compressor; (2) supplying the extracted amount of compressed air to the air separation unit; and (3) varying the amount of compressed air extracted from the turbine compressor based upon a desired compressor pressure ratio across the turbine compressor. The method further may include the step of supplying the air separation unit with a supply of compressed air from a main air compressor. The amount of compressed air supplied to the air separation unit by the main air compressor may be varied based upon the amount of compressed air extracted from the turbine compressor.
US07784257B2
The invention is a device for the safe and efficient collection of debris displaced across a collection field. Utilizing a plurality of spikes which pierce and penetrate articles of debris, the invention contemplates the accumulation of articles of debris on the spikes. When the device has become loaded with debris, the device self ejects the debris using a compression spring force trigger mechanism.
US07784255B2
A rotary cutter deck unit that has an overall dual-deck configuration. Upper and lower deck plates do not engage each other at any location, but the deck unit includes front and rear end spacers, at least one of which has a plurality of bends, and two of which are secured to the upper deck plate to form a box-like weldment. The lower deck plate is secured to this spacer at an intermediate location.
US07784250B2
A blister pack for dispensing pills that is childproof yet senior-friendly. The blister pack includes a substantially tear-resistant housing that encloses one or more blisters contained on a blister sheet and surrounded by criss-cross grain material to provide cut or tear resistance in multiple directions. In one embodiment, the cavities of the blisters are positioned such that the pills are aligned at an angle with respect to the corresponding dispensing slots on the housing in their normal position. The blisters are detachably attached to a zipper strip on the blister sheet to prevent undesired rotation of the blisters. Upon removal of the zipper strip, the blisters may be twisted until their pills are substantially aligned with their respective dispensing slot. The blisters may then be depressed to remove the pills from the cavities of the blisters by pushing the pills through the foil sheet that covers the slots. In another embodiment, the blisters must be released and slid within a channel to align the pill with the dispensing slot to be released.
US07784246B2
To provide a sheet processing apparatus and an electromagnetic locking method of a stacking device for unlocking a stacking device cover when a door of the sheet processing apparatus is closed, shortening the power supply time of an electromagnetic lock, suppressing power consumption, and displaying permission of access to the stacking device. When a condition of unlocking a stacking portion and opening of the door is detected, the electromagnetic lock is held in an unlocking state and a cover opening-closing permission display lamp is turned on. After end of an operation by an operator, if the closing of the door is detected by a door detection device, the electromagnetic lock of the stacking device is turned off and the lamp is turned off. As a result, an unlocking condition is held when no power is supplied to a solenoid. Further, when a condition of locking the stacking portion occurs, if the opening of the door is detected, the electromagnetic lock is turned on, and the lamp is turned off, and after the operation ends, if the closing of the door is detected, the electromagnetic lock is turned off and the lamp is turned off.
US07784245B2
The container capping device includes a capping head carried by a hollow support member in the shape of a bracket, vertically movable and including a vertical part going through a cover, with the rotation driving mechanism of the capping head and the control mechanism of the jaws of the capping head being enclosed in the part of the support member which extends above the cover.
US07784240B2
A modular exterior decorative track molding assembly including a securing track having a base section including a first channel portion, and a securing section including a second channel portion; the securing section having securing lips and a narrowed width relative to the base section; a trim module having a support rail carrying a decorative trim element received in the securing track; the support rail having a complementary shape to the base section and the securing section and including retaining channels receiving the securing lips of the securing track to resist separation between the securing track and the support rail; and, a trim element base included in the support rail carrying a decorative trim element and disposed between the retaining channels, wherein the trim element base extends through a trim module opening of the securing track.
US07784232B2
A lightweight ballistic shelter comprising mutually connectable modular panels of two sizes only (8, 7, 6). Each panel (8, 7, 6) of the shelter structure is connectable to any other panel of the shelter system thus allowing protective structures of different sizes and shapes to be assembled therefrom. The shelter is assembled from planar panels of which at least one (6) has the shape of an equilateral triangle and at least another one (7) has a square shape. The shelter system also includes coupler means (4, 5) for connecting the modular panels (6, 7, 8) with each other.
US07784230B2
Block made of solid wood or pressboard that is used in, construction on the same principle as masonry blocks by staggered stacking. It is provided with two flange on its upper portion, two grooves on its lower portion, and its end assembly is produced by using splined tongue and groove joints. Two countersunk holes are on its upper portion and in the two ends in a symmetrical way. These pilot holes allow the passage of a screw or a metal point so as to link the block to the initial support or to the lower block. The assembly of the right-angle quoins makes it necessary to grind flanges over the portion of assembly only. These blocks are used in the field of construction of buildings. They quickly enhance the value of and store accidental products such as fallen trees to improve the value of the scraps from the wood industry.
US07784229B2
The invention provides a wall panel system including a supporting structure; and a plurality of plates (3), each plate having a first pair of edges (6) for engaging with the support structure and a second pair of edges (9), each plate being shaped such that the second pair of edges (9) conceal the engagement of corresponding adjacent plates with the support structure. In one preferred embodiment the supporting structure includes a mounting board (1) including a plurality of retaining elements (2) adapted for engagement with the first pair of edges (6) of each plate. Preferably each retaining element (2) includes a supporting lip (5), wherein the support edge (6) of a plate is engagable with a supporting lip (5) of a retaining element. The retaining elements may, for example, be arranged in a rectangular or square grid on the mounting board (1).
US07784224B2
A permanent columnar multi-floored open air housing structure comprising, in each floor, a plurality of enclosures, each of said enclosures used to house a manufactured home, wherein the manufactured home is in compliance with HUD standards defined in 24 CFR Part 3280. The housing structure additionally comprises a plurality of columns which provide the structural support for each of the floors as well as define the space of each enclosure. Safety walls are provided in between the columns along the perimeter of each floor, while privacy walls are provided in between the columns that separate adjacent enclosures. The heights of the privacy walls and safety walls are selected so that they may perform their desired function while still providing the natural light, ventilation and other benefits of an open air structure.
US07784222B2
A system for siding a building includes at least two siding pieces each including an end that abuts the other of the siding pieces, and a slip sheet. The slip sheet includes a lip that catches a top surface of at least one of the siding pieces. The slip sheet is positioned behind the at least two siding pieces and backing the abutting ends of the at least two siding pieces. The system also includes a trim flashing apparatus which further includes a trim portion that includes a visible surface and a surface to abut a portion of a siding piece, and a flashing portion attached to the trim portion. The flashing portion is sufficiently thin so that at least a portion of the flashing portion is covered by at least one of the two siding pieces.
US07784214B2
This invention is directed toward a reel seat kit and method of use which allows a particular rod to be modified to accept a plurality of reels, and wherein reproducible and predictable rod action may be achieved via judicious placement of a particular reel in relationship to the rod.
US07784213B1
An apparatus may include a turkey decoy device with a collapsible fan holder. The collapsible fan holder may include a first section comprising a first plurality of feather retainers, a second section comprising a second plurality of feather retainers, and a first hinge attaching the first section to the second section. A fan holder with first and second feather retainers is also disclosed. The first feather retainer may be dimensioned to secure a first turkey feather to the fan holder, and the second feather retainer may be dimensioned to secure a second turkey feather to the fan holder. The first feather retainer may have a greater depth dimension than width dimension. A turkey decoy apparatus that includes a turkey decoy body is also disclosed.
US07784207B2
A display framing system that may be used in mobile applications, such as on tractor trailers or buses, is disclosed. The display framing system may be illuminated, and the light reflected onto a sign inserted in the framing system.
US07784204B2
Disclosed is an artificial window (1) comprising a light box (10) having a rear wall (11) and a planar diffuser arrangement (14) in front of the rear wall (11). The artificial window further comprises at least one first light source (13) extending between the rear wall (11) and the diffuser (14); a window frame (20) in front of the diffuser (14); and drivers (15, 28) arranged for operating the light source (13) and electrically connected to the light source (13). The artificial window also comprises at least one additional light source (25) electrically connected to one of said drivers (28), which additional light source (25) radiates light in substantially one direction and is arranged to radiate light onto a portion of the front side of the diffuser arrangement (14) during operation.
US07784195B1
Contours of a surface of a bearing which extends about an axis are displayed on a grid. To visualize the contours, points on the surface are measured at a plurality of angular positions to determine the corresponding measured values. The measured values at each angular position are normalized to determine a normalized measurement datum corresponding to each angular position. The normalized measurement datum is subtracted from each of the measured values to determine a plurality of deviations of the corresponding points. Shades are assigned that correspond to a range of possible deviations. Each of the deviations are displayed as a data segment on a grid that represents the shape of the surface of the bearing. Each data segment is shaded on the grid to the corresponding shade to provide a topographical representation of the contours of the surface of the bearing.
US07784190B2
A can opener has first and second operating elements pivotal with respect to one another. The first operating element has a rotatable traction wheel and the second operating element has a cutting assembly. The operating elements pivot such that traction wheel and cutter assembly are moveable between an inoperative position and an operative position. In the inoperative position, the traction wheel and cutter assembly are spaced from one another so that the rim of the can to be opened is locatable between the traction wheel and cutter assembly. In the operative position, the traction wheel and the cutter assembly are in close proximity and engagable with the can to effect opening of the can. The cutter assembly has an axle engaged with the second operating element at a first end and has a thread at a second end. A rotatable circular cutting blade is located on the axle between the first and second ends and is held in place by a nut engaged with the thread. A decorative cover covers the nut.
US07784182B2
A system for manufacturing an integrally bladed rotor is provided. This system includes a ring component, wherein the ring component further includes at least one metal matrix composite and a continuous radially outwardly facing blade conical surface; an airfoil component, wherein the at least one airfoil component has been created from a single, unitary piece of material and further includes a plurality of individual airfoil blades and a continuous radially inwardly facing blade conical surface; and inertia welding means for frictionally engaging under an axially applied weld load the ring component and the airfoil component to effect an inertia weld therebetween along the conical surfaces.
US07784179B2
A method of correcting the alignment of a line of terminals using a jig that has a pair of openable and closeable sticks by opening the pair of sticks and inserting the terminals between the sticks. Closing of the sticks can be to a nipping direction for correcting the alignment. The alignment method is usable for inserting terminals into a mating unit.
US07784173B2
A layered structure is produced on a support structure's surface. The layered structure can include a component that responds electrically to thermal signals, such as a thermistor, and can also include a layer part that has a printed patterned artifact such as an uneven boundary or an alignment. A layered structure can be produced by depositing a layer of material, printing a mask, and removing the exposed part of the layer.
US07784164B2
A non-polygon shaped, multi-piece chamber is provided. A non-polygon shaped, multi-piece chamber may include (1) a central piece having a first side and a second side, (2) a first side piece adapted to couple with the first side of the central piece, and (3) a second side piece adapted to couple with the second side of the central piece. The central piece, the first side piece, and the second side piece form a cylindrical overall shape when coupled together. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US07784162B2
The invention relates to a tool revolver (10, 11) with: a rotationally mounted tool carrier (6) that can be pivoted into the respective working position for a tool by means of a pivot drive; fixed tools (14), and; at least one rotationally drivable tool (15, 16). Particular advantageous result due to the fact that the rotationally drivable tool (15, 16) is mounted on the front face of the tool carrier (6). The invention also relates to a machine tool (1) equipped with a tool revolver (10, 11) of the aforementioned type.
US07784147B2
The invention relates generally to the conditioning of bowling lanes, and, more particularly to an apparatus and method for automatically applying a predetermined pattern of dressing fluid along the transverse and longitudinal dimensions of a bowling lane.
US07784144B2
A system and method for enabling the replacement of electric toothbrush heads on toothbrush models that require users to replace the entire toothbrush head assembly is described. Toothbrush head assemblies typically include much more than a simple toothbrush head, for example, a shank attached to magnets and a housing for coupling the shank to the toothbrush base. The present invention therefore permits the replacement of worn out toothbrush heads instead of entire toothbrush head assembly that includes many parts that have not worn out. The system includes tools for separating an existing toothbrush head from a shank and replacement toothbrush heads having new bristles that couple with the shank or the head assembly of a particular toothbrush model.
US07784139B2
A cartridge is disclosed comprising a reel-to-reel roll of cleaning material, for use in a hand-held or robotic cleaning device. The cartridge provides either an electrostatic dust cloth or wet mop, and includes a fluid reservoir for maintaining the wet mop cloth during use. A dust bin is also provided on the cartridge, and includes a hinged lid for providing selective access to the dust inside of the bin. A motor, optical sensor, and fluid pump inside of a cleaning apparatus control the operation of the reel-to-reel cloth, and control fluid delivery to the wet cloth.
US07784138B2
A device for converting a rotating motion into a reciprocating motion comprises a rotatable shaft carrying a first grooved element, a second element constrained to move along an axis of said second element, and a pin carried on the second element. The pin may be engaged in the groove on the rotatable shaft so that as the rotatable shaft rotates, the pin moves in the groove thereby causing the second element to move along its axis. The shape of the groove defines the motion of the second element. There is also disclosed an electric brush assembly and an electric tool assembly comprising such a device.
US07784132B2
A system and method for maintaining an air inflation mattress configuration sufficient for patient support and comfort. Infrared illumination levels are measured within individual or groups of inflated mattress chambers. A staggered approach to illumination monitoring of chambers or sections to eliminate crosstalk between the infrared sensors is carried out. Distributed microprocessor controllers established in a network configuration utilizing controller network protocols reduces the wiring and connections necessary for the assembled system. Various mattress cushion construction techniques, such as sewing and or RF welding methods, are used for the creation of individual chambers utilizing specific types of IR translucent, transparent or reflective materials. The construction of the cushions and bladders in the system includes the use of various types of fabrics with low to high air loss qualities as required. The overall mattress assembly, including the control systems and the methodologies associated with such control systems, provide a unique approach to the maintenance of a consistently comfortable patient support surface. The use of a handheld unit for both programming the system and downloading information about the operation of the system is also anticipated. The specific cushion construction designs associated with the head, body, and foot cushion components of the mattress are tailored to operate specifically with the control capabilities (sensors and air flow regulators) of the invention.
US07784128B2
A bed having a frame and a deck is disclosed. The deck has at least a horizontal position and a chair position. The deck has an adjustable-length foot section.
US07784126B2
The invention relates to an operating table having a support column and a table panel mounted on the support column. In order to facilitate improve monitoring of a patient on the table panel, the operating table has a force measurement system for determining the weight of the table panel and of the patient on the table panel.
US07784123B2
A system and method for occluding potential entrapment zones in a bed. The system includes a head-end assembly with a head-end cover enclosing a head-end pad and a pair of reinforcing end members. The system also includes a torso assembly, a leg assembly and a foot-end assembly with covers enclosing pads and reinforcing members.
US07784117B2
A vacuum relief safety valve includes a housing defining an inner chamber and attached to the suction-side of the swimming pool or spa pump. An air inlet aperture is formed in the housing so as to be open to ambient air. A sealing element is disposed within the housing and biased against the air inlet aperture by a spring so as to effectively seal the inner chamber of the housing from ambient air. When a maximum allowed vacuum level within the pump is exceeded, such as when a swimming pool drain is obstructed, the sealing element moves into the inner chamber and opens the air inlet aperture causing the pump to rapidly lose its prime and enabling removal of the entrapment. Simultaneously, the movement of the sealing element provides electricity to a control circuit which shuts off power to the pump.
US07784116B2
A padded garment having at least one pocket with at least one pad located within the at least one pocket. The at least one pad has a plurality of interconnected, spaced apart tubes. A first end of each of the spaced apart tubes are interconnected along a first pathway and a second end of each of the spaced apart tubes are interconnected along a second pathway. The first and second pathways are recessed from a top plane and a bottom plane of the pad in areas between adjacent tubes such that the pad is flexible along the recessed areas of the first and second pathways and substantially less flexible along a length of the spaced apart tubes. The pad is shaped to correspond to an area of a wearer's body it is intended to cover.
US07784113B2
An improved glove construction wherein the trank, forchette and thumb components are stitched together at the outer periphery with the liner outside and a barrier layer inside to form a glove insert system with exterior seams; the insert system is then reversed to place the barrier layer outside, the liner inside and the seams inverted; a primer base is applied along the inverted seams and dried; an adhesive sealant is then applied along the inverted seams and cured. This reversed glove insert is then placed in side of and secured to an outer shell. A method to prevent liquid, chemical and viral ingress to a seam is also disclosed.
US07784111B2
The invention relates to an athletic glove for supporting a hand of a wearer. The soccer glove improves performance through the use a three dimensional finger cap which forms at least a portion of at least one digit of the wearer's hand. The athletic glove also comprises an open wrist feature which allows for a greater degree of support, adjustability, comfort, and ease of access and removal.
US07784110B2
A protective glove having a thumb portion having at least two dorsal protective members for protecting a back portion of a thumb, adjacent ones of the dorsal protective members being pivotable with respect to one another about a respective axis between an extended position and a folded position, the respective axis being angled with respect to a perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the thumb portion.
US07784108B2
A bib is described that includes multiple flaps, each flap providing a surface to prevent soiling of clothing. The flaps are secured to one another through multiple fastening mechanisms, which may include one or more magnets. A neck bridge portion couples the plurality of flaps to one another.
