US08163800B2
The present invention relates to methods of activate an isoform of protein kinase C (PKC) for the treatment of neurological diseases including Alzheimer's disease and stroke using cyclopropanated or epoxidized derivatives of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The present invention also relates to methods of reducing neurodegeneration using cyclopropanated or epoxidized derivatives of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
US08163799B2
Compounds, polymers, crosslinked polymers and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same may be derived from multi-amine monomers and multi-functional monomers having two or more amine reactive groups. Such compounds, polymers, crosslinked polymers and compositions may be used to treat hyperphosphatemia or to remove ions from the gastrointestinal tract of animals, including humans.
US08163798B2
Methods and devices for maintaining a desired therapeutic drug effect over a prolonged therapy period are provided. In particular, oral dosage forms that release drug within the gastrointestinal tract at an ascending release rate over an extended time period are provided. The dosage forms may additionally comprise an immediate-release dose of drug.
US08163783B2
Provided herein are novel compounds that inhibit ribonucleotide reductase (RR) by binding to RRM2 and interfering with the activity of the RRM1/RRM2 holoenzyme. These inhibitors may be used to inhibit RR activity and to treat various conditions associated with RRM2 expression, such as for example certain cancer types, mitochondrial diseases, or degenerative diseases.
US08163777B2
The invention relates to compounds of formula (XVI): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, clathrate, or prodrug thereof wherein Y2, Z, L1, R9, R10, m and u are defined herein. These compounds are useful as immunosuppressive agents and for treating and preventing inflammatory conditions, immune disorders, and allergic disorders.
US08163776B2
The invention provides for the methods of modulating an immune response in an individual by administration of a thione-forming disulfide (TFD). Immunomodulatory responses include, but are not limited to, increased natural killer cell activity, expansion of NK cell population, decreased B cell population, decreased antibody production, and increased mitogenic potential. Methods of modulating such immune responses and the uses of immunomodulation are provided herein.
US08163758B2
Provided is class of sodium channel blockers. One example of such a compound is shown by the following formula: The compounds are useful for promoting hydration of mucosal surfaces and treating a variety of disease conditions.
US08163738B2
Provided are compositions and methods useful for modulation signaling through the Toll-like receptor TLR8. The compositions and methods have use in the treatment of autoimmunity, inflammation allergy, asthma, graft rejection, graft versus host disease, infection, sepsis, cancer and immunodeficiency.
US08163734B2
The invention concerns the use of a mast cell activation- or degranulation-blocking agent in the manufacture of a medicament for preventing and treating cerebral complications caused by thrombolytic treatment. The invention also relates to treatment of patients suffering from cerebral complications associated with thrombolysis. Further, the invention provides thrombolytic compositions comprising a mast cell degranulation-blocking and/or mast cell activation-blocking agent present in a therapeutically effective amount to prevent or reduce any cerebral complications caused by the active thrombolytic component.
US08163724B2
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) wherein n, p, R1, R2, X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, R3a, R3b, R4, R5 and R6 are as defined in the specification, a process for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy.
US08163716B1
Disclosed is a method for the amelioration of osteophyte formation including administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of an exogenous hyaluronan formulation.
US08163715B2
The invention relates to a long-chain inulin and its preparation from artichoke roots, to its use in foodstuffs and cosmetic preparations and to foodstuffs and cosmetic preparations which comprise the long-chain inulin.
US08163713B2
The object of the present invention is to provide a novel trehalose compound having a high affinity for an adenosine A3 receptor. The trehalose compound of the present invention is represented by General Formula (1): wherein X and X′ represent a hydrogen atom, and the like; Y and Y′ independently represent an oxygen atom, and the like; R1 and R2 independently represent a C1-C6 alkyl group; and R3 and R4 independently represent a C3-C6 alkyl group. The trehalose compound of the present invention has a remarkably high affinity for an adenosine A3 receptor.
US08163703B2
The invention provides methods for treating hepatitis C viral infections and related viral infections, as well as compounds and compositions that are useful for treating such infections.
US08163698B2
Compounds of the present invention include cell growth inhibitors which are peptides of Formula I, A-B-D-E-F-(G)r-(K)s-L (I), and acid salts thereof, wherein A, B, D, E, F, G and K are α-amino acid residues, and s and r are each, independently, 0 or 1. L is a monovalent radical, such as, for example, an amino group, an N-substituted amino group, a β-hydroxylamino group, a hydrazido group, an alkoxy group, a thioalkoxy group, an aminoxy group, or an oximato group. The present invention also includes a method for treating cancer in a mammal, such as a human, comprising administering to the mammal an effective amount of a compound of Formula I in a pharmaceutically acceptable composition.
US08163697B2
An isolated peptide useful as a selective antagonist of mammalian R-cadherin comprises 3 to 30 amino acid residues, three contiguous residues of the peptide having the amino acid sequence Ile-Xaa-Ser; wherein Xaa is an amino acid residue selected from the group consisting of Asp, Asn, Glu, and Gln. Preferably Xaa is Asp or Asn. In one preferred embodiment the peptide is a cyclic peptide having 3 to 10 amino acid residues arranged in a ring. The selective R-cadherin antagonist peptides of the invention are useful for inhibiting the targeting of stem cells, such as endothelial precursor cells, to developing vasculature, for inhibiting R-cadherin mediated cellular adhesion, and for inhibiting retinal angiogenesis.
US08163693B2
The invention provides compounds urea-containing peptide compounds of Formula I and the pharmaceutically salts and hydrates thereof. The variables T, R1-R9, J, L, M, Y, Z, m, n, and t are defined herein. Certain compounds of Formula I are useful as antiviral agents. Certain urea-containing peptide compounds disclosed herein are potent and/or selective inhibitors of viral replication, particularly Hepatitis C virus replication. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more urea containing peptides compounds and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, excipients, or diluents. Such pharmaceutical compositions may contain a urea containing peptides compound as the only active agent or may contain a combination of a urea containing peptides compound and one or more other pharmaceutically active agents. The invention also provides methods for treating viral infections, including Hepatitis C infections, in mammals.
US08163687B2
The present invention relates to a liquid composition, having a pH between 3 and 7, comprising a non ionic surfactant or a mixture thereof, an amine oxide or a mixture thereof, a glycol ether solvent, a chelant and a cationic polymer. The composition of the present invention does not contain any anionic surfactant. The present invention also encompasses a process of treating hard-surfaces, including delicate hard-surfaces located in bathrooms, wherein a liquid composition according to the present invention is applied onto said surfaces.
US08163684B2
Antimicrobial or preservative compositions with high user comfort and/or low ocular irritation. The compositions comprise a polyquaternary ammonium compound and an amidoamine having an alcohol group and exhibit synergistic antimicrobial activity. The compositions may be used as stand-alone antimicrobials/preservatives or may be incorporated into other ocular compositions such as those for ocular lens care or the treatment of ocular conditions.
US08163683B2
There is provided a pour point depressant for lubricants that has an effect of lowering pour points of both solvent refined base oils and high viscosity index base oils. A pour point depressant for lubricants comprising: a mixture of an alkyl (meth)acrylate polymer (A) that is composed of an alkyl(meth)acrylate containing alkyl groups having an average carbon number (CA) of 12.5 to 13.8, and an alkyl(meth)acrylate polymer (B) that is composed of an alkyl(meth)acrylate containing alkyl groups having an average carbon number (CB) of 13.9 to 15.5.
US08163677B2
A consolidation agent for molded articles and geological formations from porous or particulate materials, containing a hydrolysate or precondensate of (a) at least one organosilane of the general formula (I) RnSiX4-n (I) in which the radicals R are identical or different and are not hydrolytically removable groups, the radicals X are identical or different and are hydrolytically removable groups or hydroxyl groups, and n is 1, 2 or 3, and optionally (b) at least one hydrolyzable silane of the general formula (II) SiX4 (II) in which the radicals X have the meaning defined above.
US08163668B2
The invention provides an inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of blocking hazardous heavy metals almost permanently and further usable as resources, based on the geological balance of elements, and a treating method for utilization as resources using the same. There is provided an inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of rendering heavy metal ions nonhazardous, including an aqueous solution as a main agent mixed with A below and also at least one of B and C below: (A) sulfuric acid, (B) at least one of aluminum sulfate and polyaluminum sulfate, (C) at least one of polyferric sulfate and ferric chloride; and an aqueous solution as a concomitant agent mixed with D below: (D) at least one of potassium silicate and sodium silicate.
US08163666B2
It is intended to provide a taphole mix capable of forming SiC bonds with minimum of an excess and a deficiency in components thereof, and excellent in drillability. A fine particle fraction having a particle diameter of 75 μm or less is comprised of three components consisting of a silicon nitride-based material, a carbon-based material, and roseki, or comprised of the three component, and one or more selected from the group consisting of an alumina-based material, a silicon carbide-based material, a rare-earth element oxide-based material, clay, a high-purity silica-based material containing SiO2 in an amount of 80 mass % or more, a boron compound-based material in an amount of less than 0.3 mass % with respect to 100 mass % of the silicon nitride-based material, and a metal powder in an amount of less than 10 mass % with respect to 100 mass % of the carbon-based material. Further, a total amount of 100 mass % of the three components in the fine particle range consists of 51 to 74 mass % of the silicon nitride-based material, 15 to 35 mass % of the carbon-based material, and 10 to 30 mass % of the roseki.
US08163662B2
A lightweight enclosure is described that has an exterior film surface. The lightweight enclosure comprises a laminate having a porous outer film. The laminate is moisture vapor transmissive and flame resistance (passing CPAI-84), and abrasion resistance on the outer film surface thereby remaining durably liquidproof. The lightweight enclosure may be a single wall tent and is formed from a laminate having sufficient oxygen permeability to sustain life while enclosure openings are closed.
US08163654B2
A method for fabricating a fine pattern in a semiconductor device includes forming a first photoresist over a substrate where an etch target layer is formed, doping at least one impurity selected from group III elements and group V elements, of the periodic table, into the first photoresist, forming a photoresist pattern over the first photoresist, performing a dry etching process using the photoresist pattern to expose the first photoresist, etching the first photoresist by an oxygen-based dry etching to form a first photoresist pattern where a doped region is oxidized, and etching the etch target layer using the first photoresist pattern as an etch barrier.
US08163649B2
A copper interconnection structure includes an insulating layer, an interconnection and a barrier layer. The insulating layer includes silicon (element symbol: Si), carbon (element symbol: C), hydrogen (element symbol: H) and oxygen (element symbol: O). The interconnection is located on the insulating layer, and the interconnection includes copper (element symbol: Cu). The barrier layer is located between the insulating layer and the interconnection. The barrier layer includes an additional element, carbon (element symbol: C) and hydrogen (element symbol: H). The barrier layer has atomic concentrations of carbon (element symbol: C) and hydrogen (element symbol: H) maximized in a region of a thickness of the barrier layer where the atomic concentration of the additional element is maximized.
US08163647B2
An electronic device having a structure of an ohmic connection to a carbon element cylindrical structure body, wherein a metal material is positioned inside the junction part of a carbon element cylindrical structure body joined to a connection objective and the carbon element cylindrical structure body and the connection objective are connected by an ohmic contact. Methods for producing such an electronic device are also disclosed. Further, a method for growing a carbon nanotube is disclosed.
US08163646B2
A method for manufacturing an interconnection wiring structure of a semiconductor device includes forming an isolation region, which arranges active regions in a diagonal direction, in a semiconductor substrate; forming first damascene trenches, which open upper portions of a bit line contacts, by selectively etching a second interlayer insulation layer; forming bit lines which fill the first damascene trenches; forming second damascene trenches, which expose portions of the active region, by selectively etching the portion of a second interlayer insulation layer between the bit lines and the portion of the first interlayer insulation layer thereunder; attaching trench spacer on side walls of the second damascene trench; forming storage node contact lines which fill the second damascene trenches.
US08163644B2
A process is disclosed for high density indium bumping of microchips by using an innovative template wafer upon which the bumps are initially fabricated. Once fabricated, these bumps are transferred to the microchip, after which can be hybridized to another microchip. Such a template wafer is reusable, and thus provides an economical way to fabricate indium bumps. Reusability also eliminates nonuniformities in bump shape and size in serial processing of separate microchips, which is not the case for other indium bump fabrication processes. Such a fabrication process provides a way to form relatively tall indium bumps and accomplishes this without the standard thick photoresist liftoff process. The described process can be suitable for bump pitches under 10 microns, and is only limited by the resolution of the photolithography equipment used.
US08163640B2
A dielectric material layer is formed on a metal gate layer for a metal gate electrode, and then lithographically patterned to form a dielectric material portion, followed by formation of a polycrystalline semiconductor layer thereupon. A semiconductor device employing a metal gate electrode is formed in a region of the semiconductor substrate containing a vertically abutting stack of the metal gate layer and the polycrystalline semiconductor layer. A material stack in the shape of an electrical fuse is formed in another region of the semiconductor substrate containing a vertical stack of the metal gate layer, the dielectric material portion, and the polycrystalline semiconductor layer. After metallization of the polycrystalline semiconductor layer, an electrical fuse containing a polycrystalline semiconductor portion and a metal semiconductor alloy portion is formed over the dielectric material portion that separates the electrical fuse from the metal gate layer.
US08163639B2
A method of fabricating a photo diode includes sequentially forming a buried layer of a first conductivity type, a first epitaxial layer of the first conductivity type, and a second epitaxial layer of a second conductivity type on a semiconductor substrate; forming a doped oxide film, including impurities of the second conductivity type, on the second epitaxial layer; forming a silicon nitride film on the oxide film; and patterning the oxide film and the silicon nitride film to sequentially form an oxide film pattern of the second conductivity type and a silicon nitride film pattern, respectively. The second conductivity type impurities are diffused from the oxide film pattern into the second epitaxial layer using a heat diffusion process to form a doped shallow junction layer of the second conductivity type, which converts the oxide film pattern into a non-conductive oxide film pattern.
US08163634B2
A method includes an act of providing a crystalline substrate with a diamond-type lattice and an exposed substantially (111)-surface. The method also includes an act of forming a graphene layer or a graphene-like layer on the exposed substantially (111)-surface.
US08163632B2
A method for processing the surface of a component, or the processing of an optical element through an ion beam, directed onto the surface to be processed, so that the surface is lowered and/or removed at least partially, wherein the ions have a kinetic energy of 100 keV or more, as well as optical elements processed by the method.
US08163626B2
Embodiments described herein generally relate to flash memory devices and methods for manufacturing flash memory devices. In one embodiment, a method for selective removal of nitrogen from the nitrided areas of a substrate is provided. The method comprises positioning a substrate comprising a material layer disposed adjacent to an oxide containing layer in a processing chamber, exposing the substrate to a nitridation process to incorporate nitrogen onto the material layer and the exposed areas of the oxide containing layer, and exposing the nitrided material layer and the nitrided areas of the oxide containing layer to a gas mixture comprising a quantity of a hydrogen containing gas and a quantity of an oxygen containing gas to selectively remove nitrogen from the nitrided areas of the oxide containing layer relative to the nitrided material layer using a radical oxidation process.
US08163625B2
The disclosure relates to integrated circuit fabrication, and more particularly to an electronic device with an isolation structure having almost no divot. An exemplary method for fabricating an isolation structure, comprising: forming a pad oxide layer over a top surface of a substrate; forming an opening in the pad oxide layer, exposing a portion of the substrate; etching the exposed portion of the substrate, forming a trench in the substrate; filling the trench with an insulator; exposing a surface of the pad oxide layer and a surface of the insulator to a vapor mixture including at least an NH3 and a fluorine-containing compound; and heating the substrate at a temperature between 100° C. to 200° C.
US08163622B2
A method for creating NAND flash memory. Source implantations are performed at a first implantation angle to areas between stacked gate structures of a NAND string. Drain implantations are performed at a second implantation angle to areas between the stacked gate structures. The source implantation can include n-type and p-type materials implanted under different angles, and the drain implantation can include n-type and p-type materials implanted under different angles. Or, the source implantation can include multiple n-type implantations under different angles, and the drain implantation can include multiple n-type implantations under different angles.
US08163615B1
A method for forming a split-gate non-volatile memory (NVM) cell includes forming a first gate layer over a semiconductor substrate; forming a conductive layer over the first gate layer; patterning the first gate layer and the conductive layer to form a first sidewall, wherein the first sidewall comprises a sidewall of the first gate layer and a sidewall of the conductive layer; forming a first dielectric layer over the conductive layer and the semiconductor substrate, wherein the first dielectric layer overlaps the first sidewall; forming a second gate layer over the first dielectric layer, wherein the second gate layer is formed over the conductive layer and the first gate layer and overlaps the first sidewall; and patterning the first gate layer and the second gate layer to form a first gate and a second gate, respectively, of the split-gate NVM cell, wherein the second gate overlaps the first gate and a portion of the conductive layer remains between the first gate and the second gate.
US08163610B2
Methods and apparatus are provided. For an embodiment, a plurality fins is formed in a substrate so that the fins protrude from a substrate. After the plurality fins is formed, the fins are isotropically etched to reduce a width of the fins and to round an upper surface of the fins. A first dielectric layer is formed overlying the isotropically etched fins. A first conductive layer is formed overlying the first dielectric layer. A second dielectric layer is formed overlying the first conductive layer. A second conductive layer is formed overlying the second dielectric layer.
US08163598B2
In one or more embodiments, a method comprising applying thermo compression to a package assembly including a lid, a die, and a package substrate to assemble the package assembly is disclosed. The method may include assembling the package assembly without coupling a biasing mechanism to the lid. Heat may be applied to a bond head coupled with a pick and place tool. Heat may be applied to a bond stage coupled to a carrier for holding the package assembly during processing. An adhesive applied to the lid or package substrate may be allowed to at least partially cure. The method may further include, in an oven, reflowing a thermal interface material (TIM) coupled to the lid and the die, curing the TIM, and/or curing the adhesive, without using clips.
US08163595B2
Formulations for voltage switchable dielectric materials include two or more different types of semiconductive materials uniformly dispersed within a dielectric matrix material. The semiconductive materials are selected to have different bandgap energies in order to provide the voltage switchable dielectric material with a stepped voltage response. The semiconductive materials may comprise inorganic particles, organic particles, or an organic material that is soluble in, or miscible with, the dielectric matrix material. Formulations optionally can also include electrically conductive materials. At least one of the conductive or semiconductive materials in a formulation can comprise particles characterized by an aspect ratio of at least 3 or greater.
US08163587B2
A method of forming a multi-doped junction on a substrate is disclosed. The method includes providing the substrate doped with boron atoms, the substrate comprising a front substrate surface, and depositing an ink on the front substrate surface in an ink pattern, the ink comprising a set of nanoparticles and a set of solvents. The method further includes heating the substrate in a baking ambient to a first temperature of between about 200° C. and about 800° C. and for a first time period of between about 3 minutes and about 20 minutes in order to create a densified film ink pattern. The method also includes exposing the substrate to a dopant source in a diffusion furnace with a deposition ambient, the deposition ambient comprising POCl3, a carrier N2 gas, a main N2 gas, and a reactive O2 gas, wherein a ratio of the carrier N2 gas to the reactive O2 gas is between about 1:1 to about 1.5:1, at a second temperature of between about 700° C. and about 1000° C., and for a second time period of about 5 minutes to about 35 minutes. The method also includes heating the substrate in a drive-in ambient to a third temperature of between about 800° C. and about 1100° C.
US08163569B2
Provided are a magnetic memory device and a method of forming the same. The method may include forming a pinning pattern on a substrate; forming a first interlayer insulating layer that exposes the pinning pattern on the substrate; forming a pinned layer, a tunneling barrier layer and a second magnetic conductive layer on the pinning pattern; and forming a pinned pattern, a tunnel barrier pattern and a second magnetic conductive pattern by performing a patterning process on the pinned layer, the tunnel barrier layer and the second magnetic conductive layer.
US08163568B2
A method for assaying a sample involves an assessment device having an assay part and a detachable recording part, which are disposed on separable portions of a substrate. The sample to be assayed is received in a sample application well on the assay element, where it contacts a measuring element, generally after being mixed with an assay reagent. Assay information relating to the sample is transferred from the measuring element to data recording element on the recording part. After the information transfer, the assay part and the recording are separated, so that the assay part can no longer transfer information to the data recording element.
US08163566B2
Described herein are methods for separating one or more analytes present in a fluid sample. The methods involve passing the fluid through or into a microporous material, wherein the analytes are localized near the surface of the microporous material. Additional processing steps such as hybridization and amplification can be performed once the analyte is localized. In one method, once the analyte is localized, the analyte can be detected, counted, and correlated in order to determine the concentration of the analyte in the sample. In another method, the localized analyte is destabilized to make the localized analyte more accessible for chemical manipulation. Modified microporous materials and composite materials are also disclosed that can be used in any of the methods and articles described herein. The composite is composed of a microporous material and a pigment, wherein the pigment is incorporated in the microporous material. The pigments alter the optical properties of the microporous material, which enhances the detection of analyte once it is localized. Methods for making pigmented composites are also disclosed. In a further aspect, various kits and articles such as filtration devices containing any of the microporous materials described herein are provided.
US08163565B2
The invention relates to a cell fixative that can be used in the preparation of slides for investigation by microscopy techniques. In particular the present invention provides a cell fixative that contains a light curable mounting medium.
US08163549B2
The invention provides a composition including isolated small living tissue particles, a method of making the tissue particles, and a method of using the composition to ameliorate a tissue defect. The tissue particles are composed of cells and their associated extracellular molecules and are sized, in certain embodiments, to be smaller than about 1 mm. Another aspect of the inventive tissue particles is the large percentage of viable cells. In certain embodiments, the tissue particles are made from cartilage and the composition may also contain additives such as adhesives, solutions, and bioactive agents.
US08163541B2
A cell culture apparatus is provided in which a plurality of culture vessels can be mounted and removed in a set, which has a regulation mechanism that can fix each culture vessel in the correct position, and which enables suppression of production costs. The cell culture apparatus has one or a plurality of concave portions, and can arrange and accommodate one or a plurality of culture vessels in the concave portions. Spring-type fixing devices are provided in the depth direction and the width direction, respectively, in each concave portion. The two spring-type fixing devices press against side surfaces of the culture vessel to fix the culture vessel in the culture vessel set. At this time, by pressing against the culture vessel at two points, the position of the culture vessel at the time of fixing can be maintained with good accuracy.
US08163538B2
The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. The device includes a substrate which defines a sample-distribution network having (i) a sample inlet, (ii) one or more detection chambers, and (iii) channel means providing a dead-end fluid connection between each of the chambers and the inlet. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.
US08163535B2
Devices, processes, and kits for the extraction of nucleic acids from biological samples are disclosed. The devices comprise a first port, a second port, and a binding chamber intermediate and in fluid communication with the first port and the second port. The binding chamber comprises an unmodified flat glass surface effective for binding a heterogeneous population of nucleic acids. The first port, second port, and binding chamber define a continuous fluid pathway that is essentially free of nucleic acid-specific binding sites.
US08163528B2
The present invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding a Herpesviridae thymidine kinase enzyme comprising one or more mutations, at least one of the mutations encoding an amino acid substitution located toward the N-terminus from a DRH nucleoside binding site which increases a biological activity of the thymidine kinase, as compared to unmutated thymidine kinase. Such mutations include amino acid substitutions within a Q substrate binding domain which increases a biological activity of the thymidine kinase, as compared to unmutated thymidine kinase. Within a further aspect, fusion proteins are provided which have both guanylate kinase and thymidine kinase biological properties. Also provided are vectors suitable for expressing such DNA molecules, as well as methods for utilizing such vectors.
US08163518B2
Methods are presented for microwave assisted, enzymatic deglycosylation of proteins. The rate at which deglycosylation is achieved and without protein degradation facilitates rapid and accurate molecular weight determination by mass spectrometry.
US08163509B2
The present invention provides diagnostic methods for predicting the effectiveness of treatment of a cancer patient with an IGF-1R kinase inhibitor. Methods are provided for predicting the sensitivity of tumor cell growth to inhibition by an IGF-1R kinase inhibitor, comprising assessing whether the tumor cell expresses certain sensitivity or resistance biomarkers, or genomic classifiers. Improved methods for treating cancer patients with IGF-1R kinase inhibitors that incorporate this methodology are also provided.
US08163507B2
A method for analyzing extracellular body fluids as to the presence of the Y-box protein YB-1 and fragments thereof, which are secreted by the cell, in order to determine inflammatory processes and malignant diseases in mammals. Also, it relates to the use of YB-1 as a marker and a kit for detecting YB-1, polypeptide fragments of YB-1, and combinations thereof. Also disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition which is used for treating inflammatory processes and malignant diseases and which contains the YB-1 protein, fragments of protein YB-1, and antibodies against the YB-1 protein and/or fragments of protein YB-1.
US08163506B2
Swine Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9)-expressing cells are prepared by cloning a TLR9 gene from swine intestinal Peyer's patches. Functional analysis on CpG DNAs using the above cells revealed that swine TLR9 shows a higher recognition ability for a human CpG DNA motif (CpG2006) than for a mouse-specific CpG DNA motif (CpG1826). When the mRNA expression levels in various tissues are compared by the real-time PCR method, it is found out that the mRNA is expressed in Peyer's patches and mesenteric lymph nodes, which play important roles in the intestinal tract immune system, at a level thrice as much as in spleen or more. Thus, the cells expressing an intestinal tract tissue-expressed TLR (for example, TLR9) can be used to identify samples capable of activating the intestinal tract immune system.
US08163497B2
Human antibodies and antigen-binding portions of those antibodies that specifically bind extended Type I chain glycosphingolipids are provided.
US08163480B2
The present invention provides methods of determining the size of a particular nucleic acid segment of interest in a sample of nucleic acids through fragmentation of DNA, size fractionation, an optional second fragmentation, and identification using a marker sequence. In particular aspects, an expansion or reduction of tandem repeat sequences can be detected. In further aspects, carriers and individuals afflicted with fragile X syndrome or other diseases associated with tandem repeats can be distinguished from normal individuals.
US08163475B2
The invention features methods diagnostic of a psychotic disorder such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. The methods include obtaining a cell sample from a subject, subjecting a cell from the sample to stress (e.g., nutrient stress), and measuring nucleic acid or polypeptide expression in the cell, where an alteration in expression is indicative of the subject having or being at increased risk of developing a psychotic disorder. The invention also features prognostic monitoring methods for subjects having a psychotic disorder, useful in determining the progression of a psychotic disorder in a subject or the effectiveness of a therapy.
US08163472B2
It is an object of the present invention to reduce influence of hemolysis in a dry analytical element used for measurement of components in a body fluid sample such as blood. The present invention provides a method for producing a dry analytical element for body fluid component measurement comprising at least a reagent layer containing an H2O2 color developing reagent and a spreading layer provided on the reagent layer, which comprises steps of providing a spreading layer substrate on the reagent layer containing an H2O2 color developing reagent and preparing a spreading layer by coating a low-viscosity solution containing oxidase to the spreading layer substrate and then coating a high-viscosity solution containing other reagent components than oxidase thereto.
US08163470B2
A method for preparing five-part differential leukocyte analogs from red blood cells includes selecting appropriate red blood cells; treating the red blood cells with a multi-functional reagent system for maintenance of a structural integrity of the membranes of the red blood cells and synchronous adjustment of cell volume, morphology and inclusions; subjecting the treated red blood cells to an intensified fixation; and washing the treated cells for preservation. The present disclosure also relates to leukocyte analogs prepared by the above method, a reagent system used for preparing the analogs, and a quality control and a calibrator including the analogs for use in a hematology analyzer.
US08163461B2
The invention provides various photoacid generator compounds and ionic components thereof. Photoresist compositions that include the ions and non-ionic photoacid generator compounds are also provided. The invention further provides methods of making and using the photoacid generator compounds and photoresist compositions disclosed herein. The compounds and compositions are useful as photoactive components in chemically amplified resist compositions for use in, for example, various microfabrication applications.
US08163457B2
A process for preparing a toner for electrophotography containing mother toner particles which contain a resin binder containing a crystalline polyester and a linear amorphous polyester and an external additive, wherein the process includes an external addition step of mixing the mother toner particles and at least a part of the external additive and the step of carrying out a heat-treating step at the external addition step or later. The toner for electrophotography obtained according to the present invention is suitably used for, for example, developing a latent image formed in electrophotography, electrostatic recording method, electrostatic printing method, or the like.
US08163443B2
Disclosed is a volume phase hologram recording material characterized by excellent photosensitivity, low cure shrinkage, high transparency, and particularly good storage stability and also disclosed is a recording medium prepared therefrom. Further disclosed is a photosensitive resin composition for volume phase hologram recording that comprises a soluble aromatic copolymer (A), a photoradically polymerizable compound (B) capable of copolymerizing with the soluble aromatic copolymer (A), a photopolymerization initiator (C), and a polymer binder (D). The soluble aromatic copolymer (A) has a structural unit of a divinyl aromatic compound and a structural unit of a monovinyl aromatic compound, comprises 10 to 90 mol % of a structural unit represented by the following formula (a1), has a hydroxyl equivalent of 100 to 30,000 g/equiv, a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 400 to 30,000, and a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of 10 or less, and accounts for 5 to 60 wt % of the composition.
US08163440B2
A multi-channel pump includes a pump chamber, an inflow passage connected to the pump chamber, two or more outflow passages connected to the pump chamber, outflow side active valves provided so as to correspond to the outflow passages, and a movable body reciprocated to change a volumetric capacity of the pump chamber. The movable body may be a piston reciprocated within a cylinder that is connected to the pump chamber. A control method for a multi-channel pump includes an initial discharge step between a suction step and a discharge step. The multi-channel pump may be preferably utilized in a fuel cell.
US08163439B2
N-heterocyclic functionalized polymers and methods of use in fuel cells. Phenoxy-substituted polyphosphazenes and phosphazene trimers functionalized with azoles can provide polymer electrolyte membranes with high thermal stability coupled with a large number of proton binding sites per monomer unit.
US08163431B2
Bipolar plate for a fuel cell, of the type comprising a cathode bipolar half-plate and an anode bipolar half-plate which are secured to each other, each bipolar half-plate (1) being constituted by a plate which comprises, in the central portion thereof, an active zone (2) and, at the peripheral portion thereof, a plurality of cut-outs (5) which are intended to constitute at least two oxidant units, at least two fuel units and at least two heat-exchange fluid units, at least one bipolar half-plate (1) comprising at least one connection between a peripheral cut-out (5) and the active zone (2), and comprising, at the periphery thereof, at least one hollow housing (140) which is intended to receive a connector (141) for electrical measurement.
US08163424B2
A secondary battery includes: a positive electrode; a negative electrode; a porous electron-insulating layer adhered to a surface of at least one selected from the group consisting of the positive electrode and the negative electrode; and an electrolyte. The porous electron-insulating layer comprises a particulate filler and a resin binder, and the particulate filler comprises an indefinite-shape particle comprising a plurality of primary particles that are joined to one another. A neck is preferably formed between the primary particles. Since the porous electron-insulating layer has high porosity, it is possible to obtain a secondary battery that exhibits excellent low-temperature characteristics, which are particularly important in actual use, and that is capable of discharging at a large current.
US08163417B2
An electronic device includes a main body, a battery, and a fixing module. The main body defines a receiving groove to receive the battery. The battery defines a latching groove. The fixing module includes a fixing member, an elastic member, and a touching member. The touching member urges the elastic member such that the elastic member drives the fixing member to rotate, thereby engaging or disengaging the fixing member with the latching groove.
US08163406B2
A membrane-electrode assembly for solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell that exhibits superior dimensional stability to high temperature of hot water generated on power generation, and that has both excellent power generation performance and durability in a low temperature environment is provided. According to the membrane-electrode assembly for solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a polyarylene-based copolymer having a specific repeating constitutional unit is used as a proton conductive membrane, the membrane-electrode assembly for solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell that exhibits superior dimensional stability to high temperature of hot water generated on power generation, and that has both excellent power generation performance and durability in a low temperature environment can be provided.
US08163399B2
Various embodiments of the invention include products and parts including a frictional damping means and methods of making and using the same.
US08163397B2
A method and apparatus suitable for forming hermetic electrical feedthroughs in a ceramic sheet having a thickness of .ltoreq.40 mils. More particularly, the method yields an apparatus including a hermetic electrical feedthrough which is both biocompatible and electrochemically stable and suitable for implantation in a patient's body. The method involves: (a) providing an unfired, ceramic sheet having a thickness of .ltoreq.40 mils and preferably comprising .ltoreq.99% aluminum oxide; (b) forming multiple blind holes in said sheet; (c) inserting solid wires, preferably of platinum, in said holes; (d) firing the assembly of sheet and wires to a temperature sufficient to sinter the sheet material but insufficient to melt the wires; and (e) removing sufficient material from the sheet lower surface so that the lower ends of said wires are flush with the finished sheet lower surface.
US08163386B1
The present invention relates to fine hollow powder with a titanium oxide shell, obtained by spray drying an exfoliated titania sol, and thin flaky titanium oxide powder obtained by pulverizing the fine hollow powder, and also to processes for producing the same. The present fine hollow powder and thin flaky titanium oxide powder have a distinguished dispersibility and are useful for additives to cosmetics, pigments, paints, etc., and the present fine hollow powder also has a distinguished flowability and is useful for seed particles for flow measurement.
US08163385B2
Disclosed are multicomponent fibers derived from a blend of a sulfopolyester with a water non-dispersible polymer wherein the as-spun denier is less than about 6 and wherein the water dispersible sulfopolyester exhibits a melt viscosity of less than 12,000 poise measured at 240° C. at a strain rate of 1 rad/sec, and wherein the sulfopolyester comprising less than about 25 mole % of residues of at least one sulfomonomer, based on the total moles of diacid or diol residues. The multicomponent fiber is capable of being drawn at a relatively high fiber speed, particularly at least about 2000 m/min, and may be used to produce microdenier fibers. Fibrous articles may be produced from the multicomponent fibers and microdenier fibers. Also disclosed is a process for multicomponent fibers, nonwoven fabrics, and microdenier webs.
US08163384B2
This invention relates to antimicrobial composites, films, labelstocks and labels. The antimicrobial composites comprise a mixture of (A) a terpolymer prepared from a mixture comprising (i) an olefin, (ii) at least one copolymerizable comonomer comprising ethylenically unsaturated organic acids or esters, vinyl esters of saturated carboxylic acids and mixtures of two or more thereof, and (iii) carbon monoxide, and (B) an antimicrobial composition which comprises at least one metal chlorite and at least one hydrophilic material capable of reacting with the metal chlorite when exposed to water. The composites which are described herein are useful in preparing films, labelstocks and labels which exhibit the desirable antimicrobial properties by providing a controlled release of chlorine dioxide gas over an extended period of time.
US08163383B2
This invention provides an antiglare film which has high antiglare property and show little white-blurring. An embodiment of the present invention is an antiglare film having a binder matrix and particles on a transparent substrate. The binder matrix is an acrylic material. The particles are made of a copolymer of styrene and methyl methacrylate. The copolymerization ratio by weight of the styrene and methyl methacrylate is in the styrene:methacrylic acid=60:40 to 80:20 range. In addition, a quotient R/H, which is obtained by dividing an average diameter of the particles (R) by the average thickness of the antiglare layer (H), is in the 0.45-0.65 range. Moreover, a quotient wP/wB, which is obtained by dividing a content of the particles in the antiglare layer (wP) by a content of the binder matrix in the antiglare layer (wB) is in the 0.08-0/164.
US08163382B2
A glass ceramic self-supporting film that includes silica (SiO2) matrix glass and fine crystalline zirconia (ZrO2) particles dispersed in the matrix glass. A process for production of a glass ceramic self-supporting film wherein the process includes the steps of combining a colloidal silica sol having a pH of 4 or less, a zirconium-containing compound and an organic binder to produce a mixture, coating the mixture onto a base material, drying the mixture on the coated base material to form a precursor film on the base material, releasing the precursor film from the base material, and firing the released precursor film.
US08163373B2
A method of bonding includes using a bonding layer having a fluorinated oxide. Fluorine may be introduced into the bonding layer by exposure to a fluorine-containing solution, vapor or gas or by implantation. The bonding layer may also be formed using a method where fluorine is introduced into the layer during its formation. The surface of the bonding layer is terminated with a desired species, preferably an NH2 species. This may be accomplished by exposing the bonding layer to an NH4OH solution. High bonding strength is obtained at room temperature. The method may also include bonding two bonding layers together and creating a fluorine distribution having a peak in the vicinity of the interface between the bonding layers. One of the bonding layers may include two oxide layers formed on each other. The fluorine concentration may also have a second peak at the interface between the two oxide layers.
US08163366B2
The present invention provides a write-once-read-many optical recording medium comprising a substrate, a recording layer comprising any one of bismuth and an oxide of bismuth, an overcoat layer and a reflective layer in this order from a laser beam incident plane, wherein the write-once-read-many optical recording medium has a reflectivity of 35% or less when a laser is applied to the flat part of the substrate or a write-once-read-many optical recording medium comprising a substrate, an undercoat layer, a recording layer comprising any one of bismuth and an oxide of bismuth, an overcoat layer and a reflective layer in this order from a laser beam incident plane, wherein the write-once-read-many optical recording medium has a reflectivity of 35% or less when a laser is applied to the flat part of the substrate.
US08163354B2
Process for obtaining a hard coated article having anti-fouling properties, including, for example, an optical article such as an ophthalmic lens, comprising a substrate coated with a hard coating providing abrasion resistance and hardness and adhesion to the anti-fouling coating, and the article obtained from such process.
US08163348B2
The invention relates to a method for hot-dip coating hot-rolled steel strip, during which the steel strip passes through a pickling station, a rinsing station, a drying station, a heating furnace and then through a molten bath. The final thickness and the thickness tolerance of the hot-dip coated steel strip are achieved by a controlled thickness reduction in a roll stand in the process line. The achievement of the finished thickness is controlled by at least one thickness measuring unit at the outlet of the roll stand, and deviations upward or downward therefrom are fed back in the form of an actuating signal for actuating the roll stand in order to appropriately increase or decrease the thickness reduction. The invention also relates to an installation for producing a steel strip of the aforementioned type.
US08163340B2
A carbon nanotube film structure includes at least one carbon nanotube film or at least two stacked carbon nanotube films. Each carbon nanotube film includes a plurality of ultralong carbon nanotubes parallel to the surface of the carbon nanotube film and parallel to each other. A length of the ultralong carbon nanotube is equal to or greater than 1 centimeter. The invention is also related to a method for making the above-described carbon nanotube film structure.
US08163331B2
A terminal to, most commonly, a ceramic capacitor, most commonly a multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC), is formed by electroless plating, also known as electroless deposition or simply as electrodeposition. In the MLCC having a multiple parallel interior plates brought to, and exposed at, at least one, first, surface, an electrically-conductive first-metal layer, preferably Cu, is electrolessly deposited upon this first surface directly in contact with, mechanically connected to, and electrically connected to, the edges of these interior plates. Lateral growth of the electrolessly-deposited first-metal is sufficient to span from exposed plate to exposed plate, electrically connecting the plates. One or more top layers, preferably one of Ni and one of Sn and Pb, are deposited, preferably by plating and more preferably by electrolytic plating, on top of the electrolessly-deposited Cu.
US08163329B2
A method includes steps of (1a) preparing a hydrophilic first liquid, (1b) preparing a component-dispersing liquid where the component is dispersed in a second liquid, (1c) preparing a substrate having a hydrophilic region and a water-repellant region, (2) disposing the first liquid to the hydrophilic region, (3) bringing the component-dispersing liquid in contact with the first liquid disposed on the hydrophilic region, and (4) removing the first liquid and the second liquid from the substrate to dispose the component on the hydrophilic region. The hydrophilic region includes a component-mounting region and a liquid-capturing region surrounding the component-mounting region. The surface of the liquid-capturing region has a material represented by X—(CH2)n—Si-(substrate), where X represents N+R3Q− (Q represents Cl, Br, or I), OR, or halogen atom, R represents lower alkyl group with a carbon number of 1-4, and n represents a natural number of 1, 2, or 3.
US08163322B2
The configuration of a feedstock material is controlled by bringing it into contact with at least a first gas moving against it at a location with an area and thickness of the feedstock liquid that forms drops or fibers of a selected size. In one embodiment, drops of agricultural input materials are formed for spraying on agricultural fields. In another embodiment, nanofibers of materials such as chitosan or metals are formed. In another embodiment seeds are planted with gel.
US08163320B2
A liquid nutritional composition includes partially hydrolysed protein, fat and from 0.1 to 10 grams per liter of an emulsifier with a hydrophilic lipophilic balance value of less than 5, from 0.1 to 10 grams per liter of an emulsifier with a hydrophilic lipophilic balance value of more than 5 and from 0.01 to 20 grams per liter of a low amylose starch is shown.
US08163302B2
Comblike, surfactant polymers for changing the surface properties of biomaterials are provided. Such surfactant polymers comprise a polymeric backbone of repeating monomeric units having functional groups for coupling with side chains, a plurality of hydrophobic side chains linked to the backbone via the functional groups, and a plurality of hydrophilic side chains linked to said backbone via the functional groups. Medical devices coated with the surfactant polymers are also provided. The surfactant polymers may be used to decrease the thrombogenic properties, encapsulation, and bacterial colonization of medical devices.
US08163301B2
A composition for administration to a subject, such as oral administration to a subject, for example, has been provided. Such a composition may comprise at least one magnesium-counter ion compound. A magnesium-counter ion composition described herein may be useful for any of a variety of applications provided herein, such as maintaining, enhancing, and/or improving health, nutrition, and/or another condition of a subject, and/or cognitive, learning, and/or memory function. A magnesium-counter ion composition provided herein may be useful for administration to a subject presenting magnesium deficiency, mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ALS, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, migraine, anxiety disorder, mood disorder, and/or hypertension. A kit, method, and other associated technology are also provided.
US08163300B2
A cosmetic composition comprising: (a) an aqueous and/or oil phase comprising: (i) water, and (ii) at least one cosmetically active ingredient; (b) a coupling agent; and (c) an oil phase comprising: (i) an isoparaffin solvent, and (ii) a silicone-containing solvent having the formula:
US08163289B2
The present invention concerns inventive polypeptides. The present invention also concerns compositions and vaccines comprising the inventive polypeptides. In other embodiments of the invention, the inventive polypeptides are provided to a subject, used to vaccinate, or used to induce immunity. Other embodiments include methods for making the inventive polypeptides and nucleic acids used to encode the inventive polypeptides.
US08163271B2
The present invention is directed towards a composition for highly efficient and quick plaque and tartar removal and inhibition including pure ascorbic acid crystals and/or granulars (vitamin C) and an enamel repairing composition such as hydroxyapatite. The composition can contain from about 10% up to 90% of ascorbic acid without compromising the tooth enamel because hydroxyapatite will repair any damage to the enamel. The composition can be used as dental powder, toothpaste, mouthwash, mouth spray and chewing gum in order to cover a wide range of consumers in different settings.
US08163269B2
The present invention is based on the discovery that a vascular stent or other implantable medical device can be coated with a biodegradable biocompatible polymer to which is attached a bioligand that specifically captures progenitors of endothelial cells (PECs) from the circulating blood to promote endogenous formation of healthy endothelium in Type II diabetics. In one embodiment, the bioligand is a peptide that specifically binds to an integrin receptor on PECs. The invention also provides methods for using such vascular stents and other implantable devices to promote vascular healing in Type II diabetics, for example following mechanical intervention.
US08163268B2
EMM-11 is a novel synthetic crystalline microporous material having a single crystalline phase with a unique 3-dimensional channel system comprising three sets of channels, namely a first set comprising 10-ring channels, and a second set and third set comprising 8-ring channels. EMM-11 has unique T-atom connectivity and X-ray diffraction pattern which identify it as a novel material. EMM-11 may be prepared with an organic structure directing agent, preferably, 3-isopropyl-1-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium. EMM-11 may be used in organic compounds conversion and absorptive processes.
US08163267B1
In a method of synthesizing magnesium-cobalt pentahydride, a MgCo2 alloy is synthesized by completely reacting cobalt (Co) metal and excess magnesium (Mg) metal, followed by an isothermal evaporation casting process (IECP) for removing the residual magnesium metal. Then, the magnesium-cobalt alloy and another magnesium metal are ball-milled and hydrogenated to synthesize the magnesium-cobalt pentahydride (Mg2CoH5).
US08163251B2
A sterile enclosure contains a transfer module defining a window. A port covers the window to maintain the inside of the enclosure as a sealed and sterile environment. A sliding, heated cutting element mounted on the port serves to sterilize and sever a portion of a sterile transfer bag assembly attached to the port. Preferably, the excised portion of the sterile transfer bag assembly is affixed to the port when the port opens. The sliding cutting element remains extended and heated to prevent contamination when the port is open. Further, a heating element is mounted about the window in order to sterilize around the opening when the port is open.
US08163248B2
According to the method of an aspect of the present invention, by forming the laminated body of the liquids by laminating a plurality of liquids after discharging the plurality of liquids from a central portion of the rotational stage onto the rotational stage and rotating the rotational stage after the formation, the centrifugal force by the rotation enables the laminated body to form a thin layer. Accordingly, because the diffusion between the layers can be executed rapidly in the latter mixing process, a mixing of liquids is allowed to advance immediately.
US08163242B2
A portable monitor used to measure landfill gas and landfill well parameters. The portable monitor includes a control unit and a measuring unit that can communication wirelessly with one another. The control unit and/or measuring unit can includes a heating arrangement to increase the temperature of one or more components in the control unit and/or measuring unit in cold environments.
US08163238B2
An automated micro-well plate handling device for removing a micro-well plate from within a vertically stacked plurality of micro-well plates and transferring the removable micro-well plate to a receiving area. A vertical storage device for storing the vertically stacked plurality of micro-well plates creates a vertical clearance space between the vertically stacked micro-well plates. A shovel slides into the vertical clearance space underneath the micro-well plate that is being removed. The shovel then removes the micro-well plate from the vertical storage device and places the micro-well plate at a transfer station. A gripper then grabs the micro-well plate from the transfer station and transfers the micro-well plate to a receiving area. In a preferred embodiment, the automated micro-well plate handling device is controlled via a computer network.
US08163230B2
A rotary hearth furnace for treating metal oxide materials comprises a hearth mounted for rotary movement within an enclosure. One or more fuel burners are positioned above the hearth. The burners are operably fired to heat the furnace so that heat radiates toward the hearth. One or more oxygen nozzles are positioned between the hearth and the burners in a manner that avoids substantial contact between the oxygen and the briquettes, thereby creating a quiescent zone immediately above the briquettes, with the quiescent zone being sufficient to minimize reoxidation of the reduced briquettes, and minimize entrainment of particulate matter from the briquettes.
US08163228B2
Method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank by moulding a parison in which, during the moulding operation, a pipe (3) is attached to the parison at at least two points, the said pipe being deformable.
US08163227B2
A nanofiber spinning method and device for producing a high strength and uniform yarn made of nanofibers. The device includes: a nanofiber producing unit (2) which produces nanofibers (11) by extruding polymer solution, prepared by dissolving polymeric substances in a solvent, through small holes (7) and charging the polymer solution, and by allowing the polymer solution to be stretched by an electrostatic explosion, and which allows the nanofibers to travel in a single direction; a collecting electrode unit (3) to which an electric potential different from that of the charged polymer solution is applied, and which attracts the produced nanofibers (11) while simultaneously rotating and twisting the nanofibers, and gathers them for forming a yarn (20) made of the nanofibers (11); and a collecting unit (5) which collects the yarn (20) passed through the center of the collecting electrode unit (3).
US08163226B2
Stabilized polyethylene materials which offer an advantageously balanced combination of thermal, mechanical and processing properties, and which maintain their physical properties in chlorinated water environments are disclosed. The materials include an antioxidant system with components to provide extraction resistance in hot water environments and additionally provides oxidation resistance to both chlorine in the water interior of the pipe and oxygen in contact with the pipe's exterior.
US08163219B2
Methods and apparatus are provided for making a rotor blade spar from composite material wherein a multi-component mandrel is used to form the composite spar. The mandrel is made using a number of components, which are assembled to provide a structure that is sufficiently strong to maintain the spar shape during pre-cure lay up, compaction and curing of the composite material. The multiple components used to form the mandrel can be separated from each other and easily removed from the spar either before or after curing of the composite material. The mandrel components can then be re-assembled and re-used to form additional composite spars.
US08163218B2
In an injection molding machine for two-material molding including two sets of injection units 11, 12 that plasticize different resin materials and injection-fill the materials, a mold clamping unit is a hydraulic mold clamping unit that mold-clamps three sets of die plates 2, 3, 9 simultaneously, a movable die plate opening and closing unit 14 is a movable die plate opening and closing unit driven by an electric motor, a rotational die plate opening and closing unit 15 is a rotational die plate opening and closing unit 14 driven by an electric motor, and a rotating unit for the rotational die plate 9 is a rotation driving unit driven by an electric motor attached to a reversal pedestal 7.
US08163211B2
It is an object of the present invention to provide a panel capable of obtaining sufficient strength, weight reduction and sound absorbing performance. A space is formed by an inner thin plate fixed to the inner surface of an outer thin plate, and a foam material is filled in the space. The foam material is preferably a highly foamable rubber sound absorbing material. In the inner thin plate, a perimetrical side part and perimetrical edge part for forming the space, and a concave part for enhancing the strength of the panel are drawn to the side of the outer thin plate. The bottom faces of the perimetrical edge part and concave part of the inner thin plate are bonded to the outer thin plate using a thermosetting adhesive.
US08163199B2
A method for alignment treatment of a substrate for a liquid crystal display (LCD) device includes the steps of: forming an alignment film including a plurality of molecules with curable parts on a substrate; applying an electrical field on the substrate to rotate the curable parts; and curing the curable parts such that the curable parts are cured along a first direction. A manufacturing method of the LCD device is also disclosed.
US08163194B2
An application for a substrate for mixing with other ingredients such as water, seeds, fertilizer, wetting agents and dye, to produce Hydroseeding slurry. The substrate includes cellulose materials (e.g. cardboard, paper and/or wood) and an absorbent. In one embodiment, the absorbent is material known as diaper fluff that is created during the production of products such as disposable diapers. The absorbent or diaper fluff improves moisture retention, improves viscosity and reduces friction, improves coverage of the hydroseed mixture.
US08163191B2
In certain aspects, a substrate deposition apparatus, including a gas tube coupled to a gas source, an RF power source and a substrate processing chamber, is provided. The gas tube is adapted to carry process gas and cleaning plasma from the gas source/remote plasma gas source to the substrate processing chamber and the RF power source is adapted to couple RF power to the substrate processing chamber. Furthermore an RF choke coupled to the RF power source and the gas source wherein the RF choke is adapted to attenuate a voltage difference between the RF power source and the gas source to prevent plasma formation in the gas tube during substrate processing. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US08163179B2
Disclosed is an apparatus for removing dissolved hydrogen sulfide, including an anaerobic treatment tank (1) that anaerobically treats organic discharged water, a circulation water tank (3), means for introducing organic discharged water into circulation water, a treated-water tank (4) that temporarily stores anaerobically treated water, a biological desulfurization tower (5) that desulfurizes biogas formed by anaerobic treatment, air feeding means for feeding air to the biological desulfurization tower (5), water feeding means for feeding water to the biological desulfurization tower (5), first aerating means (9a) for blowing a part of biologically desulfurized gas from the biological desulfurization tower (5), into the treated-water tank (4), and second aerating means (9b) for blowing exhaust gas discharged from the treated-water tank (4) into a solution circulating between the anaerobic treatment tank (1) and circulation water tank (3).
US08163174B2
A submerged biofiltration purifying apparatus includes a settling zone being a 3D space having open top, bottom, and two lateral sides; one or more filtering zones coupled to the two lateral sides of the settling zone, and each being a 3D space with open sides and having soft contact media connected thereto; and one or more bubble aeration units connected to bottoms of the filtering zones. The soft contact media allow biological films to grow thereon. The bubble aeration units generate air bubbles that guide sewage to flow toward the soft contact media, so that organic substances in the sewage are adsorbed to the biological films. The soft contact media are arranged at a specific angle for the sewage to naturally diffuse toward two lateral sides of the settling zone and recycle. And, purified water settles in the settling zone again to remove remaining suspended solids to achieve sewage purification.
US08163166B2
The present invention is directed to a crude product composition. The crude product composition has, per gram of crude product: at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution of at most 204° C. at 0.101 MPa, at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution between about 204° C. and about 300° C. at 0.101 MPa, at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution between about 300° C. and about 400° C. at 0.101 MPa, and at least 0.001 grams of hydrocarbons with a boiling range distribution between about 400° C. and about 538° C. at 0.101 MPa. The hydrocarbons that have a boiling range distribution of at most 204° C. comprise iso-paraffins and n-paraffins with a weight ratio of the iso-paraffins to the n-paraffins of at most 1.4.
US08163160B2
The present invention provides reagent compositions, and analyte measuring devices and methods that utilize the reagent compositions.
US08163155B2
A coating layer prepared from an aqueous electrodeposition coating composition comprising an electrodepositable binder, the binder comprising a sulfo or sulfamyl group-containing resin, provides corrosion protection to a metallic substrate.
US08163153B2
A gel extraction device (10) comprises a hollow cutting member (12) having cutting edge (14) at one end and a squeeze bulb (16) at the other end. In a further embodiment, the air passage between the cutting edge and the bulb has a constriction zone (20) to prevent any extracted gel from being drawn too deeply into the extractor, in another embodiment, a blow-hole in the hollow cutting member or in the squeeze bulb provides for the passage of air displaced by gel through the extractor. The blow-hole may be covered to secure the gel in the receptacle for transfer from the matrix to a sample container.
US08163133B2
The invention relates to an aqueous dispersion useful for internal sizing or surface sizing in the production of paper, comprising at least one cellulose reactive sizing agent selected from the group consisting of ketene dimers and multimers, at least one cellulose non-reactive sizing agent and at least one emulsifier selected from the group consisting of oxyalkylene phosphate and sulfate esters and salts thereof. The invention further concerns a process for its preparation, use thereof, and processes for the production of paper.
US08163129B2
In a method and an apparatus for cleaning a substrate using a laser beam, an inner chamber is disposed in a process chamber to define a space in which a laser-induced shock wave is generated. The laser beam is focused on a laser focus positioned in the inner chamber, and thus the laser-induced plasma shock wave is generated around the laser focus. The plasma shock wave is reflected from inner surfaces of the inner chamber and is irradiated on the substrate through a lower portion of the inner chamber. As a result, the intensity of the plasma shock wave irradiated on the substrate is increased, and thus the contaminants on the substrate may be effectively removed.
US08163122B1
The apparatus is a laminar shear resistant pre-impregnated resin tape for use in die forming pultrusion processes, with the tape formed by integrating three distinguishable layers, each with integrated parallel reinforcing filaments. The layers are arranged within the tape so that the filaments of adjacent layers are oriented at angles to each other. The tape of the preferred embodiment of the invention is constructed with the filaments of the center layer at 90 degrees to the length of the tape and the filaments of the two outer layers aligned with the length of the tape. The center layer can be more heavily loaded with filaments than conventional tapes, and the outer two layers have less than the amount of filament load of the center layer.
US08163114B2
Techniques and processes that combine particulate coating processes with particulate handling steps resulting in the formation of free-flowing particulates for introduction into energetic product vessels to affect an in-situ, net-shape manufactured product. The processes involve selecting suitably sized materials, processing such materials such that they are surface-coated and/or locally “structured” particulates, and pouring, preferably “dry” pouring, these processed materials into an energetic product vessel and infusing the filled vessel with a polymerizable and surface-compatible monomer or oligomer which flows into the unoccupied volume, followed by polymerization of the monomer, which then becomes the binder giving mechanical integrity to the final, net-shape energetic composition.
US08163105B2
The present invention provides a corrosion inhibition method which minimizes environmental adverse effects by using phosphate base anticorrosives without using zinc salt base anticorrosives and by reducing the concentration of the phosphate base anticorrosives, enables stable formation of an effective initial protective film, and does not affect water treatment after the formation of the initial protective film. In an initial protective film formation process of forming an initial protective film on a surface of an iron-based metallic member of a water system by adding anticorrosives to the water system, at least one selected from a group consisting of pyrophosphoric acids and pyrophosphates is employed as the anticorrosives and the initial protective film formation process is conducted such that the initial pH at the start of the initial protective film formation process is adjusted to be 5 or more and less than 7 so that the pH at the end of the initial protective film formation process becomes 7 or more.
US08163104B2
A flux or a flux preparation, which contains complex alkali metal fluorides and additionally includes a water-soluble polymer, preferably polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol derivative. The water-soluble polymer may be contained in the flux preparation as a granulate or powder or used as a water-soluble package for the flux or flux preparation.
US08163101B2
A method for cleaning contaminated surfaces of surgical waste management equipment. The method includes rinsing surfaces of the equipment with water to remove water soluble contaminants and waste material. A rinse solution is applied to the surfaces of the equipment to provide a residual film thereon. The rinse solution includes a first nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant having an HLB value ranging from about 12 to about 15, a second nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant having an HLB value ranging from about 16 to 20, an aqueous solvent, and a bio-film permeation agent. A total of the first surfactant and the second surfactant in the composition ranges from about 2 to about 20 percent by weight of a total weight of the composition.
US08163098B2
The disclosure features a method of performing a boil-out cleaning process in connection with a fryer. The fryer includes a vat, a vessel for receiving oil drained from the vat, the vessel movable from an under-unit position, an oil drain path leading from an outlet opening of the vat to the pan, and an oil return path from the vessel back to the vat. The oil return path includes a pump. A drain valve is located along the oil drain path. The drain valve is opened to drain oil from the vat into the vessel is opened. The drain valve is closed after draining the oil from the vat. A boil-out cleaning fluid is delivered to the vat and the boil-out cleaning fluid is heated. A boil-out drain path is provided with an inlet positioned for receiving boil-out fluid from the drain valve and an outlet positioned forward of a front of the fryer unit. A container is placed below the outlet of the boil-out drain path. The drain valve is opened so that boil-out fluid is delivered from the vat to the container without passing through the pump. The drain valve is closed, and The pump is activated to deliver oil from the vessel back to the vat.
US08163092B2
A method for producing concentrated HCl vapor from an aqueous solution of HCl, including: (a) introducing an aqueous feed liquor to an evaporation chamber containing a mother liquor, the feed liquor having an initial, super-azeotropic HCl concentration; (b) directly contacting a liquor of these liquors with a heat-laden heat transfer fluid, to transfer heat from the fluid; (c) utilizing the heat to evaporate HCl, within the chamber, to produce the concentrated HCl vapor and to produce the mother liquor, the mother liquor including an aqueous phase having a reduced concentration of HCl, with respect to the initial HCl concentration; (d) subjecting the mother liquor to a liquid-liquid separation to produce a liquid phase containing HCl, and another liquid phase containing the heat transfer fluid in a heat-depleted state, with respect to the heat transfer fluid in step (b); (e) heating the heat transfer fluid in the heat-depleted state, to regenerate the heat-laden heat transfer fluid, and (f) returning this heat transfer fluid to step (b).
US08163089B2
Vapor deposition apparatus and process for continuous deposition of a thin film layer on a substrate
An apparatus and related process are provided for vapor deposition of a sublimated source material as a thin film on a photovoltaic (PV) module substrate. A receptacle is disposed within a vacuum head chamber and is configured for receipt of a source material. A heated distribution manifold is disposed below the receptacle and includes a plurality of passages defined therethrough. The receptacle is indirectly heated by the distribution manifold to a degree sufficient to sublimate source material within the receptacle. A molybdenum distribution plate is disposed below the distribution manifold and at a defined distance above a horizontal plane of a substrate conveyed through the apparatus. The molybdenum distribution plate includes a pattern of holes therethrough that further distribute the sublimated source material passing through the distribution manifold onto the upper surface of the underlying substrate. The molybdenum distribution plate includes greater than about 75% by weight molybdenum.
US08163080B2
The invention relates to a hydrophobic fumed silica which is obtained by grinding a fumed silica which, as a result of silanization, has trimethylsilyl groups fixed on the surface; and to coating formulations comprising this silica.
US08163074B2
Phase change inks comprising a carrier and a colorant of the formula wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R′, R″, Y, CA+, and A− each, independently of the others are as defined herein.
US08163067B2
One exemplary embodiment can be an apparatus for isomerizing a hydrocarbon stream rich in a C4 hydrocarbon and/or at least one of a C5 and C6 hydrocarbon. The apparatus can include: a first drier and a second drier adapted to receive a fluid including at least one reactant; and a reaction zone communicating with the first drier to receive the fluid including at least one reactant and with the second drier to receive the regenerant. Generally, the first drier operates at a first condition to dry the fluid including at least one reactant and the second drier operates at a second condition during regeneration with a regenerant. The regenerant is displaced from the drier using a down-flow regenerant displacement assembly.
US08163065B2
A carbon dioxide permeable membrane is described. In some embodiments, the membrane includes a body having a first side and an opposite second side; a plurality of first regions formed from a molten carbonate having a temperature of about 400 degrees Celsius to about 1200 degrees Celsius, the plurality of first regions forming a portion of the body and the plurality of first regions extending from the first side of the body to the second side of the body; a plurality of second regions formed from an oxygen conductive solid oxide, the plurality of second regions combining with the plurality of first regions to form the body and the plurality of second regions extending from the first side of the body to the second side of the body; and the body is configured to allow carbon dioxide to pass from the first side to the second side.
US08163057B2
In an air filter housing (100) for an air filter element (2) with at least one housing bottom part (10) into which the air filter element (2) can be inserted completely or with a substantial portion of its length and a cover element (20) to be connected to the housing bottom part (10), on the housing bottom part (10) and on the cover element (20) at least one connector socket (14, 15) for connection to a hose conduit is provided, respectively. The connector socket for the side of the air filter element facing the cover element (20) is designed as a deflecting connector socket (14) that extends at least partially outside of the cross-sectional area covered by the air filter element (2) and that is connected to the housing bottom part (10).
US08163056B2
An air cleaner having a housing body and a removable cover and a filter element, in which the cover and the filter element rotationally interfere with each other by engagement between an inside surface of the cover and an outer radial periphery of the filter element. A filter element includes a pair of end caps, filter media, and an outer wall on the end cap circumscribing the filter media, in which the outer wall is non-circular. A method of installing a filter element into a housing includes orienting a cover over an element and a housing body by engaging an inside surface of the cover and an outer radial periphery of the filter element to rotationally interfere with each other.
US08163054B1
An air filter having hollow support channels in its frame is disclosed. In one embodiment, the air filter comprises a support structure having a center portion and sidewalls positioned on opposite sides of the center portion, the center portion of the support structure attached to a side of a filter media, and a frame having a plurality of sections, each of the sections having a center portion and sidewalls positioned on opposite sides of the center portion, a first frame section attached to the support structure by connecting the sidewalls of first frame section to the sidewalls of the support structure to form a hollow channel between the first support structure center portion, the frame section center portion, and the sidewalls. Methods for cutting air filter sections and for attaching a frame to the air filter sections is also disclosed.
US08163037B2
Disclosed are methods and kits for coloring the hair involving a lifting composition capable of lightening the natural hair color, a color base composition comprising at least one primary dye intermediate, and a developer composition comprising an oxidizing agent chosen from persulfates, perborates, percarbonates, and mixtures thereof.
US08163036B1
NM7O and NM3O coated clay are embedded into a fabric matrix to produce a protective fabric. A NM7O blended garment can be manufactured for the purpose of containing malodors. The destruction of chemical warfare agents can also be accomplished by incorporating these materials into disposable protective clothing for military, Haz-Mat team and First responders. The fabrics so treated with MN7O have uses as diverse as for a disposable silver polish wipe. In the case of NM3O coated clay, the treated fabric can be used as a copper and brass polish.
US08163035B2
This disclosure relates to interference management for a security and tracking system of an electronic device. In one embodiment, during a startup process, an electronic device executes a security program and automatically attempts to access a first web server to ascertain whether the electronic devices has been reported as stolen. In response to an unsuccessful attempt to access the first web server, the electronic device may automatically attempt to access a second web server for data regarding operational status of the first web server. In response to unsuccessful attempts to access the first and second web servers, the electronic device may automatically present an interference alert to provide notification that the electronic device will be disabled if the electronic device continues to experience interference. The electronic device may be automatically disabled in response to a predetermined number of startup sequences with interference. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08163030B2
Moldable bone implants for use in a bone defect or wound include a plurality of biocompatible granules and a biocompatible polymer that together form an implant mass. The polymer is softened with a plasticizer to make the implant mass moldable. The plasticizer can dissipate or be extracted to cause the implant mass to harden. The implant mass can be shaped in-situ or ex-situ. Implants formed in-situ are shaped by the bone defect or wound. The implant becomes hard through contact with body fluids, which extracts the plasticizer from the implant mass. Bone implants formed ex-situ, such as in a mold, are shaped by a mold, for example, and then hardened by placing the implant mass in contact with a hardening agent, such as water, which extracts the plasticizer from the implant mass. The shaped, hardened implant can be placed into a bone defect of corresponding size and shape.
US08163018B2
A method is provided for treating a spinal condition. The method includes introducing a biological treatment into an area of a vertebral column, and mechanically unloading the treated area by applying a load-bearing device to the anterior region, the anterior column region, the posterior region, or the spinous process region of the vertebral column.
US08163013B2
Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools.
US08163006B2
An abdominal aortic aneurysm endoprosthesis having a reduced profile for percutaneous delivery of the endoprosthesis. The endoprosthesis provides a cranial section supported by a stent, and a bifurcated caudal section having at least two legs each of which are supported by individual stents. The individual stents of each leg of the caudal section are staggered so as not to line up with one another. Altering the lengths of the legs permits nesting of the endoprosthesis. Optimizing the expansion ratio and radial strength of the endoprosthesis is achieved by altering the dimensions of the starting material from which the stent segments are fabricated, by altering the final austentite temperature of the starting materials, or by changing the structural configuration of the stent segments. A graft material is attached to at least a portion of the cranial section and to all of the caudal section of the endoprosthesis.
US08163002B2
The present invention relates to a segmental self-sealing graft for implantation in a patient including a base tubing element, a tubular access element overlying the base tubing, and a strand-like compression element wound over the access element so as to provide radially inward compression, and a method of making same.
US08163001B2
An apparatus for loading an expandable intraluminal medical device into a delivery device has a flexible main body with first and second rolled ends that enable the main body to alternatively adopt a substantially flat configuration that exposes a portion of the inner surface and a helical configuration that defines an interior chamber adapted to receive said expandable intraluminal medical device. An expandable intraluminal medical device is prepared for loading into a delivery device by placing the device on the main body of the loading apparatus while in the substantially flat configuration and then transforming the main body into the helical configuration. The medical device can then be compressed and forced out of the loading apparatus—and into a delivery device—by applying rotational and translational force to one end of the loading apparatus. Related kits and methods are also described.
US08162982B2
Methods, apparatus and systems for constraining spinous processes to elastically limit flexion of two or more adjacent spinal segments rely on placing a tether structure over at least three adjacent vertebral bodies or two adjacent vertebral bodies and the sacrum. The tether structures may be continuous, for example in the form of a continuous loop, or may be discontinuous, for example in the form of a loop or elongate element having at least two anchor structures for securing in bone.
US08162979B2
A system for correcting a spinal deformity includes an implant fixed to one side of a vertebra and a rod extending along an axis of the spine on a second side of the vertebra. An adjustment member, which may include a reel, is coupled to the rod. A force directing member, such as a cable, extends between the rod and the adjustment member. The force directing member is retractable toward and extendible from the adjustment member. A method of correcting spinal deformity includes providing an implant, a rod, an adjustment member coupled to the rod, and a force directing member extending between the rod and the adjustment member. The adjustment member can be retractable toward and extendible from the adjustment member.
US08162963B2
Anastomosis devices, tools and methods of performing angled sutureless anastomosis. Devices provided are adapted to be oriented at an acute angle to a host vessel or organ, thereby orienting a graft to be anastomosed to the host by the same angle. The device maintains the angular orientation as it is compressed to join the graft and host.
US08162956B2
The present invention relates to an apparatus for footcare, which comprises an abrasive body (1) and members for supporting the abrasive body (1) relatively a ground, the abrasive body (1) has an external surface, and the external surface is at least partly abrasive, whereby the portion of the external surface of the abrasive body (1) that is abrasive comprises a number of partial surfaces, and these partial surfaces comprises at least a concave surface (9, 12) and a convex surface (10, 15). A main surface (9), which at the position of the abrasive body (1) on the ground is faced upwardly, has two concave partial surfaces (A, B) angled against each other, whereby a first part-surface (A) has an angle in the range 15-45° in relation to the ground and a second partial surface (B) has an angle up to 15° in relation to the ground.
US08162949B2
A tibial resection guide. The tibial resection guide includes a support member having a longitudinal shaft, and a referencing guide coupled to the longitudinal shaft, the referencing guide defining a referencing slot. The tibial resection guide can also include a cutting guide coupled to the longitudinal shaft, the cutting guide defining a cutting slot, the cutting slot positioned at a fixed distance from the referencing slot, and an adjustment mechanism operable to move the referencing guide and the cutting guide along the longitudinal shaft without changing the fixed distance.
US08162948B2
A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient.
US08162944B2
One aspect of the present invention is a connective tissue distraction device comprising: a first transmitting structure for transmitting force to a first tissue region and a second transmitting structure for transmitting force to a second tissue region by contact with bone, and an expansion device for exerting force distracting the first transmitting structure from the second transmitting structure. At least one of the first transmitting device, the second transmitting device and the expansion structure comprises in whole or in part a biodegradable, bioerodible or bioresorbable material.
US08162941B2
System, device and method for ablating target tissue adjacent pulmonary veins of a patient through an incision. An ablation device can include a hinge including a cam assembly, a moving arm, a floating jaw, and a lower jaw. Fingers can engage the floating jaw to hold the floating jaw in a first position with respect to the moving arm. Some embodiments of the invention can provide an ablation device including a central support, an upper four-bar linkage coupled to the central support, an upper jaw coupled to the upper linkage, a lower four-bar linkage coupled to the central support, and a lower jaw coupled to the lower linkage. Some embodiments of the invention can provide an ablation device having an upper jaw including a first cannula connection and a lower jaw including a second cannula connection. The system can include a first catheter coupled to the first cannula connection and a second catheter coupled to the second cannula connection. The first and second catheters can be inserted through the incision and can move the upper and lower jaws adjacent the pulmonary veins.
US08162938B2
This invention relates broadly to surgical instruments. More particularly, this invention relates to a surgical snare instrument for excising polyps. Preferably, the instrument includes a coupling member that may increase ability to actuate the snare. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a surgical instrument for insertion through an endoscope having a handle and a working channel, said surgical instrument including an elongate flexible tubular sheath having proximal and distal ends; a flexible shaft extending through and axially movable relative to the sheath, said shaft having proximal and distal ends; an end effector coupled to or formed at said distal end of said shaft; and a coupling member disposed at said distal end of said shaft.
US08162933B2
An ablation apparatus including a maneuvering mechanism, a conductive element attached to the apparatus, a sensor attached to the apparatus and an output device in communication with the sensor is provided. The sensor senses vibration during the ablation procedure and sends a signal to the output device to reduce power to the conductive element.
US08162916B2
The present invention provides a system comprising: a reservoir body configured to hold a reservoir liner, wherein the reservoir liner is configured to hold an enteral feeding material; a reservoir connector configured to connect to the reservoir liner in a manner that permits flow of an enteral feeding material; a reservoir cap configured to connect to the reservoir body in a manner that connects the reservoir connector to the reservoir liner disposed within the reservoir body; and a syringe adapter enteral feeding assembly having a distal end configured to connect to the reservoir cap in a manner that permits flow of the enteral feeding material, and a proximal end configured to connect to an enteral feeding device in a manner that permits flow of the enteral feeding material.
US08162905B2
Novel delivery systems suitable for delivering, for example, implantable devices. Delivery system comprises a three-catheter system in conjunction with at least one floating connector. Delivery system may be particularly suitable for delivering septal occlusion devices to a patient's heart.
US08162904B2
A protector is attached for use to a needle body having a main needle body and an enlarged-diameter section having an outer diameter greater than that of the main needle body. The protector includes a platelike protector body made of a metal material. The protector body includes a first section formed with a first hole adapted to receive the needle body when the needle body is passed therethrough, a second section formed with a second hole, and a third section adapted to connect the first section and the second section. The second hole of the second section is provided with a tubular portion that permits the main needle body to pass therethrough, but prohibits the enlarged-diameter section from passing through the tubular portion. In a state in which the protector covers the needle tip, the tubular portion comes into abutment against the enlarged-diameter section, thus prohibiting the needle body from moving toward the proximal side.
US08162901B2
Microneedle devices for transport of molecules, including drugs and biological molecules, across tissue, are provided. The microneedle devices permit drug delivery or removal of body fluids at clinically relevant rates across skin or other tissue barriers, with minimal or no damage, pain, or irritation to the tissue. Microneedles can be formed of biodegradable or non-biodegradable polymeric materials or metals. In a preferred embodiment, a microneedle device includes a plugging element comprising a platform including a plurality of microneedle plugs for preventing skin or other tissue barriers from entering the hollow microneedles. In another preferred embodiment, a microneedle device includes a plurality of bioerodible elements for temporarily plugging the hollow microneedles, thereby preventing skin or other tissue barriers from entering the hollow microneedles.
US08162900B2
A method of non-delaminably bonding a non-porous thermoplastic elastomer to a substrate by heating a bilayer of the elastomer and the substrate for a predetermined time and a product obtained by the method. Methods for producing non-delaminable conduits and non-delaminable kink-resistant conduits constructed of biocompatible elastomers and substrates, and products produced by these methods are taught. Methods, products, and articles of manufacture relating to non-delaminable monofilament supported kink-resistive conduits that may be used as inflow conduits in left ventricular assist devices for treatment of heart failure are also provided.
US08162896B2
A needle assembly includes a transparent or translucent housing with a fluid inlet end, a fluid outlet end, a flashback chamber and a venting mechanism therebetween. Substantially axially aligned inlet and outlet cannulas extend from the housing and communicate with the chamber. A sealable sleeve covers the external end of the outlet cannula. Relative volumes of the cannulas, the chamber and the sleeve are selected to provide rapid reliable flashback indicative of venous entry with an internal vent plug over the outlet of the flashback chamber to inhibit leakage of blood from the needle on withdrawal from the patient.
US08162890B2
The invention relates to a catheter insertion system utilizing a catheter introducer device having an introducer sheath, the catheter insertion system comprise a catheter containment unit in which a catheter tube having a catheter hub is held, said catheter containment unit comprises an opening adapted to sealably and reversibly connect to an inserter head, said inserter head is adapted to sealably and reversibly connect, and provide said catheter tube passage, to said catheter introducer device, wherein said catheter containment unit comprises at least one flexible portion and an elastic/resilient portion located near its opening for advancing portions of said catheter tube through said passage, and wherein said inserter head is adapted to sealably receive a portion of said catheter hub in a socket provided therein.
US08162889B2
A needle assembly includes a mounting structure and a needle mounted on the mounting structure and extending outwardly from the mounting structure. The needle has a longitudinal axis, a sharp end and a central axial passageway. A safety shield is associated with the needle and includes a tubular housing having distal and proximal ends. The distal end of the housing has a funnel-shaped surface. A reset key is configured to engage the distal end of the housing. The reset key includes a support. A shaft extending from the support is adapted for inserting into the distal end the housing. The funnel-shaped surface guides the shaft into the housing to register the reset key with the safety shield.
US08162879B2
The invention, in one embodiment, is directed to a catheter for site-specific delivery of a therapeutic agent to a blood vessel of a patient. The catheter further includes an elongated shaft having at least one inner lumen, a distal end and a proximal end and proximal and distal vessel-conforming balloons where each is separately positionable and inflatable, and when inflated, substantially restricts blood flow in the vessel and creates a treatment window of a defined but variable length for delivery of the therapeutic agent. The catheter optionally includes at least one marker band adjacent to the proximal balloon and at least one marker band adjacent to the distal balloon. At least one lateral aperture positioned in the window is in fluid communication with a drug delivery conduit located within either the inner shaft or the outer shaft to provide a homogeneous concentration of the therapeutic agent to the window.
US08162878B2
An exhaust-pressure-operated balloon catheter system which is a cross stream thrombectomy catheter, such as, but not limited to, an Angiojet® catheter with a flexible and expandable balloon, wherein the balloon is formed from and is continuous with the catheter tube which, in part, forms the cross stream thrombectomy catheter, wherein the balloon is deployable and expandable about the distal region of the cross stream thrombectomy catheter to act as an occluder device, and wherein the balloon is located proximal to the fluid jet emanator and inflow and outflow orifices upstream of ablative cross stream flows. The balloon is expandably deployed by the exhaust or back pressure created by the operation of the cross stream flows as generated by the fluid jets of the operating exhaust-pressure-operated balloon catheter system.
US08162870B2
A blood filter device has a housing that includes: a head portion (2) provided with a blood inlet (5) and forming an upper structure of the housing, a filtration portion (3) positioned below the head portion and forming a middle structure of the housing, and a bottom portion (4) disposed below the filtration portion and provided with a blood outlet (7); and a filter (8) mounted in a cavity of the filtration portion and partitioning a cavity of the housing into a head portion side and a bottom portion side. The filter is formed of a filter sheet folded to have a plurality of pleats, and disposed so that ridgelines of the plurality of pleats traverse respectively the cavity of the filtration portion in parallel. The bottom portion has a conical portion (4a) on the inner bottom face protruding downward to form a conical face. Due to the conical portion of the bottom portion, resistance against blood passing through the housing interior is reduced, and the pressure loss can be suppressed satisfactorily while maintaining sufficient filtration performance of the filter in a small device.
US08162869B2
A hybrid compression garment comprises a sleeve adapted for placement on a limb of a person for applying static compression to the limb. A connecting device on the sleeve enables releasable connection of the sleeve to a machine. The machine is independent of the sleeve and operable to transmit, through the connecting device, a force to the sleeve that constricts the sleeve without inflating the sleeve to apply active compression to the limb. The connecting device is adapted for connection of the sleeve to the machine such that the sleeve can be used to apply active compression to the limb and adapted for disconnection of the sleeve from the machine such that the sleeve can be used to apply static compression to the limb. A method of applying compression to a limb of a person is also disclosed.
US08162867B2
A body support for spanning a hinge joint of the body comprises an elastically stretchable framework. The framework includes an integrally molded network of interconnected elastomeric segments. A first subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments extends along a perimeter of the framework, and a second subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments located within the perimeter of the framework bounds and defines an alignment opening. None of the interconnected, elastomeric segments of the first subset are part of the second subset.
US08162865B2
A neck brace (10; 110; 210) having a collar member (12; 212) to be arranged around a wearer's neck, and a rear member (14; 214) extending from, the collar member and to be abutted on the wearer's back. The brace further comprises pivoting means (37, 38, 40, 276a, 278, 280a, 280b, 280c) for pivoting the collar member and the rear member relative to each other about a pivoting axis (X; Y) which, when in use, is substantially parallel to the wearer's shoulders.
US08162848B2
A biopsy system comprises a control module, a localization assembly, a biopsy device, and a targeting cube. A probe and/or other associated components of the biopsy device are configured to selectively couple with the targeting cube, which is configured to selectively couple with a grid plate. The targeting cube may comprise an eccentric lock for securing the targeting cube within the grid plate. The targeting cube may further comprise an elastomeric insert positioned within guide holes of the targeting cube for securing the probe and/or other associated components within the guide hole of the targeting cube. The guide holes of the targeting cube may alternatively, or in addition, include an elastomeric retaining ring within the passageway of the guide hole.
US08162845B2
Comfortable sensation of living bodies is estimated, considering individual differences in biological information on the living bodies staying or residing in a common space, and stimulation contents is properly controlled. A stimulation generator generates a stimulation to be applied to users. Biological information acquirers and acquire time-series data of biological information on the users. Parameter extractors and extract a parameter which is changed with a lapse of time by analyzing the time-series data. Thermal sensation estimators and estimate statuses of the users to the stimulation generated by the stimulation generator, based on the parameter extracted by the parameter extractors and. A multi-user thermal sensation processor integrates estimation results on the users estimated by the thermal sensation estimators and into a single estimation result. A stimulation controller controls the stimulation generator based on the integrated estimation result.
US08162838B2
A method and apparatus is disclosed for calculating a Doppler signal spectrum. The method includes a step of estimating parameters of a Doppler signal, and a step of resolving a predefined spectrum function using the parameters, the spectrum function being at least a function of the parameters characterizing the strength, frequency center, and frequency deviation of the Doppler signal. The apparatus includes an estimating module, a smoothing module, and a calculating module. According to the Doppler signal spectrum calculating method and apparatus of the present disclosure, the obtained spectrogram has very high time and frequency resolution without requiring any complicated operation. Thus, a higher quality spectrogram can be obtained at a very low cost.
US08162829B2
An analyte monitor includes a sensor, a sensor control unit, and a display unit. The sensor has, for example, a substrate, a recessed channel formed in the substrate, and conductive material disposed in the recessed channel to form a working electrode. The sensor control unit typically has a housing adapted for placement on skin and is adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The display unit has a receiver for receiving data transmitted by the transmitter of the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of a level of an analyte. The analyte monitor may also be part of a drug delivery system to alter the level of the analyte based on the data obtained using the sensor.
US08162827B2
An adjustable polyaxial tissue retractor includes a retraction bar including a plurality of etched teeth, a retraction blade coupled to the retraction bar, a connector including a quick release component cavity and an outwardly protruding and expandable round bulbous body, a quick release component engaged with at least one tooth of the retraction bar via a retraction bar cavity, where the quick release component is configured to loosely mate with the quick release component cavity, a saddle pin engaged within the connector via a first channel bored through the connector and contacting the bulbous body causing the bulbous body to outwardly expand, and a base including a plurality of embedded sockets and directly connected to the bulbous body, where the base receives the connector.
US08162825B2
An endoscope which includes a flexible tube and a protective tube placed in the flexible tube, the protective tube containing a plurality of elongated built-in components including an optical fiber bundle, characterized in that a solid lubricant containing rice-bran ceramics is interposed at interstices between the optical fibers placed in the protective tube and between the protective tube and the flexible tube.
US08162823B2
An endoscope apparatus according to the present invention includes an apparatus main body having a protector which is provided so as to project from the outer surface of a box-shaped housing, and an endoscope unit including a connector portion detachably attached to the housing, thereby reducing a shock applied to the housing and preventing damage of the housing.
US08162818B2
A surgical system includes an implant for supporting pelvic anatomy. The implant includes a first suspending member, a second suspending member, and a support portion. The first and second suspending members are formed as flexible strips that extend from proximal to distal ends, the distal ends including first and second anchor portions, respectively, for anchoring to soft tissue in a space defined by a pelvis. The support portion is formed as a flexible strip that extends from a first end to a second end, the support portion having a first opening toward the first end of the support portion, the first opening slidably receiving the proximal end of the first suspending member such that a length of the first suspending member between the first anchor portion and the first end of the support portion is adjustable.
US08162817B2
A suction cup adapted to engage a surface of a beating heart with sufficient force to move the beating heart to an unnatural position upon moving the suction cup, while the suction cup maintains engagement with the surface of the heart and the heart continues to heat. Various suction cups are described each including at least a first chamber having a flexible rim and configured to engage the surface of the beating heart and a second chamber smaller than the first chamber and fluidly connected therewith. A suspension device configured to engage a beating heart and maintain engagement via suction while moving the suspension device to move the beating heart to an unnatural position and maintain the beating heart in the unnatural position to perform a surgical procedure, while the heart continues to beat, includes a suction cup and a support arm connected thereto. The suction cup has a first chamber configured to engage the surface of the beating heart, and a second chamber smaller than the first chamber and fluidly connected therewith. The second chamber is adapted to fluidly connect the first chamber with a source of suction. The support arm is movable with the suction cup to effect movement of the beating heart after engagement of the suction cup to a surface of the heating heart.
US08162813B2
In a method for the intermittent occlusion of a vein draining the organ system, in which the vein is occluded by an occlusion device, the fluid pressure in the occluded vein is continuously measured and stored, the behavior of the fluid pressure is determined as a function of time, and the occlusion of the vein is triggered and/or released as a function of at least one characteristic value derived from the pressure measurements, pressure is applied during the occlusion in a pulsating manner. The device for the intermittent occlusion of a vein, including an occlusion device, a pressure measuring device for continuously measuring the fluid pressure in the occluded vein, and a memory for storing the fluid pressure behavior as a function of time, and a pulsating device are provided for applying a pulsating pressure in the occluded vein.
US08162808B2
Presented is a curl bar used for lifting weight which has a compressible section in the bar, so a user can compress and uncompress the bar laterally, as well as use the bar for lifting weights or resistance in a direction perpendicular to the bar.
US08162806B2
The invention is a bicycle trainer to which a standard bicycle temporarily attaches for exercise and simulated rides. A lifting mechanism raises and lowers the front tire, and in preferred embodiments, a frame engages the rear tire to hold the rear tire in an elevated position against a resistance cylinder. The resistance cylinder provides a force against rear tire revolution and varies the resistance to pedaling. The resistance cylinder can vary resistance against back tire revolution by pumping a resistance fluid into and out of the cylinder, by changing the position of the resistance cylinder in relation to the back tire, or by translation of the bicycle back and forth. In other embodiments, the trainer is electronically controlled to simulate real-world geographical courses programmed into a readable format for electronically maneuvering front tire and back tire positions as necessary to provide resistance to pedaling.
US08162798B2
The invention relates to a method for controlling an automatic transmission having a torque converter, with the transmission having three gear sets and with the first gear set which has a first brake clutch and a second brake clutch being braked relative to the housing by means of simultaneous actuation of the first and second brake clutches, as a result of which an output shaft which is directly connected to the first gear set is likewise braked. The third gear set is connected in terms of gearing to an input shaft and to the first gear set and can be fixed relative to the housing by means of a third brake clutch. The simultaneous actuation of the first and second brake clutches takes place at least intermittently with the third brake clutch in a slipping state, controlling the speed of the torque converter relative to the engine.
US08162794B2
A rotation/linear motion conversion mechanism provided with an annular shaft, a sun shaft arranged inside the annular shaft, planetary shafts arranged around the sun shaft, and a first gear mechanism and a second gear mechanism, which transmit force between the annular shaft and the planetary shafts. Each planetary shaft includes a first planetary gear, which configures part of the first gear mechanism, and a second gear, which configures part of the second gear mechanism. The planetary shaft is configured to permit relative rotation between the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear.
US08162788B2
A method for operating a wind turbine based on operating profiles for the wind turbine corresponding to operating modes. The method includes defining operating modes and acquiring a plurality of parameter values, each based on a reading from a sensor of the wind turbine. Each of the parameter values is associated with one of the operating modes to create a wind turbine operating profile for each mode. The wind turbine is controlled based on the operating profiles.
US08162783B2
A table tennis game table may include one or more automated ball serving guns and an automated score announcing system. Remote control actuators may be provided for one or more users to operate the features of the table. The system may be adjusted manually or remotely to correct mistakes, and may be used in multiple modes. Alternatively, the automated ball serving guns and automated score announcing system may be adapted to a standard after market table.
US08162782B2
A palm pad device, for use as a training device and to be fastened to the palm of a user, includes a segregate pad having a size-adjustable elastic pad and a fastening member for fastening the segregate pad onto the palm. The palm pad device further includes a sensing recorder disposed on the fastening member for sensing and recording movement data of the palm. The elastic pad includes a thickness pad and a width pad for allowing adjustments in the thickness and width of the segregate pad. A basketball training system using the palm pad device includes a basket sensor for recording the status of successful shots, a sensing recorder disposed on the palm pad device, and a central management apparatus for receiving data transmitted from the sensing recorder and the basket sensor for conducting analysis to thereby generate a corresponding feedback event.
US08162779B1
An improved system, method, and apparatus, computer-readable medium for a putting reference guide is provided that includes a plurality of reference indicia graphically representing a hole and a green surrounding the hole, wherein the hole is a center point in a center of a series of circumferential rings around the hole, wherein each ring represents a distance out from the hole, and a series of spokes radiating from the center point, wherein each spoke represents a putt's angle with respect to a reference point, wherein within each ring and between each spoke the expected break is provided.
US08162772B1
A club shaft that can be installed in a club head permanently or can be installed in clubs with interchangeable shaft features is disclosed herein. The invention is a measurement system that enables the capturing of the speed and motion of the golfer's swing. The invention uses magnetic material positioned on a face of a golf club head and an array of magnetic sensors.
US08162768B2
An amusement park ride that provides an interactive flying experience in a round ride setting by allowing vehicle passengers to move their vehicle in and out horizontally through a fly zone. The ride includes a central support assembly with a structure rotatable about a central axis at one or more rotation speeds. The ride also includes passenger vehicles and, for each vehicle, a support arm assembly that extends outward from the rotatable structure. The support arm assembly includes a support arm and a variable radius mechanism. The support arm is mounted to the rotatable structure and supports the passenger vehicle. The variable radius mechanism operates during rotation of the rotatable structure to vary the arm length or support location of the vehicle on the arm to vary the vehicle's rotation radius. The variable radius mechanism may include a telescoping arm that reciprocates the vehicle along a linear displacement path.
US08162757B2
A wireless terminal comprising a transmitter configured to support a wireless connection with a server and a processor configured to enable a user to play an interactive game through the server with a plurality of other users on wireless terminals across a plurality of platforms.
US08162752B2
The present invention provides in one embodiment a computerized wagering game system has a gaming module comprising a processor and gaming code which is operable when executed on the processor to conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered. A virtual radio audio module is operable to play one of a plurality of audio programs selected by a wagering game player. The selected audio program is presented to simulate a radio such that playing of the selected audio program may start from a point other than the beginning of the audio track.
US08162735B2
In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method for outputting an outcome for a game of a gaming device is presented, wherein the method comprises first outputting an apparent outcome for the game and then outputting an actual outcome for the game. In one or more embodiments, a benefit corresponding to the apparent outcome may not be provided to the player playing the gaming device. For example, a hopper may be prevented from dispensing a payout associated with the apparent outcome. In accordance with one or more embodiments, a character (e.g., an animated character) may be displayed as changing the apparent outcome into the actual outcome.
US08162733B2
When a free game is finished, a chance game that determines whether or not the free game is executed again is executed. In the chance game, if the number of re-trigger symbols in a symbol display frame 111 of a liquid crystal panel 5B is a predetermined number or more, it is determined that the free game is executed again. In this determination, the number of execution times of a unit game of the free game that is executed again is determined according to the number of the re-trigger symbols.
US08162729B2
A process and an apparatus for producing sausages (28) in which sausage meat is introduced into a tubular case (20) by means of a filling machine (2) and the filled case (20) is divided into portions by means of a twisting-off device (40) for producing twist-off locations (22) so that the result is a sausage chain. The sausage chain is further transported by means of at least two transport devices (6, 8) connected in succession in the sausage chain transport direction (30), and the transport devices (6, 8) can be controlled by means of a control device (38) so that the transport speed of the second transport device (8) in the transport direction is at least at times greater than the transport speed of the first transport device (6).
US08162726B1
An edge dressing grinder tool used for making a continuous straight, vertical edge on a concrete, natural stone or artificial stone slab used for a countertop or table. The tool includes a manually operated hand grinder with a perpendicularly aligned grinding disc or pad mounted on a drive shaft. Attached to the head of the grinder is a forward extending, longitudinally aligned bracket. Extending laterally from the bracket are two slide arms and an adjustment rod. Mounted on the distal ends of the slide arms is a guide plate with a low friction, sliding plate. Mounted along the rear edge of the guide plate are two, transversely aligned wheels that press against a raised edge formed on a rigid fence that is fixed in position on the top surface of the work piece and parallel to the edge. The end of the adjacent rod engages a nut assembly mounted on the slide plate that allows the distance between the grinder's head and the guide plate to be selectively adjusted.
US08162723B2
The invention is directed to a method for polishing a surface comprising tungsten carbide, comprising contacting a surface comprising tungsten carbide with an oxidizing agent, a polishing component, and a liquid carrier, and abrading at least a portion of the surface to polish the surface. The invention further provides a method for reconditioning a workpiece comprising tungsten carbide. The invention also provides a cutting tool insert having a highly polished surface.
US08162720B2
Disclosed is a polishing apparatus including a shell, a magnetic controller, an axle, a pusher, a ring, posts, and a stirring element. The shell includes a roof, a floor and a wall between the roof and the floor. Abrasive solution is filled in the shell. The abrasive solution includes abrasive grains and magnetic material. The magnetic controller is located around the wall. The axle can be engaged with a rotary element of a machine. The pusher is connected to the axle and inserted through the roof. A ring is located between the pusher and the wall. Posts are located between the ring and the floor. The stirring element is located on the floor.
US08162719B2
The optical surface of a lens (21) held and rotated by the rotating shaft (12) of a lathe is cut or ground into an aspherical surface from a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating shaft (12) and the axial direction of the rotating shaft (12) while a processing locus (t) which is concentric or spiral about the rotating shaft (12) as the center is formed. In processing, the lens (21) is arranged in a grinding region (20) at a position spaced apart from the turning center (Zo) of the processing locus (t).
US08162715B2
A toy vehicle includes a chassis, a front road wheel supported for rotation from the chassis and a rear road wheel supported for rotation from the chassis. A reversible motor is supported from the chassis and is operatively coupled with one of the front and rear road wheels so as to rotate at least one of the front and rear road wheels to propel the toy vehicle in a forward direction. A wheelie mechanism is operatively connected to the motor and has a first end pivotally attached to the central axis of one of the front and rear road wheels.
US08162714B2
A simulated eye capable of replicating pupil dilation and contraction is provided. The simulated eye includes an eyeball, a simulated pupil, a piston assembly, and a driving device. The eyeball includes a transparent portion. The simulated pupil is viewable at the transparent portion, and is operationally filled with a colored liquid. The piston assembly is in communication with the simulated pupil for accommodating the colored liquid. The driving device is mechanically coupled to the transmission assembly for driving the piston assembly. When the driving device drives the piston assembly, a size of the simulated pupil filled with the colored liquid is changeable, replicating dilation and contraction.
US08162701B2
A socket structure, which can be applied to an electronic device, is disclosed. The socket structure comprises a socket body and a holder unit. The socket body further comprises two opposite ends to transport power, a first connecting device and a second connecting device; the holder unit further comprises a third connecting device and a fourth connecting device. The first connecting device is engaged with the third connecting device and the second connecting device is engaged with the fourth connecting device so that the socket structure is formed and the socket body can be secured to the electronic device.
US08162698B2
An antenna mount is provided including a contact pin having first and second distal ends, a barrel encasing the contact pin, a base encasing the barrel, a terminal lug press fit within a cross-section of the base, and a set screw receptacle disposed in a portion of the base for receiving a set screw to secure an antenna to the base. The first and second distal ends of the contact pin extend past first and second distal ends of the barrel, the first distal end of the contact pin extends past a first distal end of the base, and a second distal end of the base surrounds the second distal end of the pin.
US08162697B1
A silent plug includes a switch adapted to be automatically opened when the connector is inserted into the jack and closed when the connector is not inserted into the jack to eliminate electronically generated noise that would otherwise occur when the plug is inserted. The switch has a sliding ring contact for providing the electrical connection between the tip contact and the ground sleeve and providing 360° contact with the ground sleeve via a bridging contact. A spring applies a force in the mating direction to urge the sliding ring contact into the closed position. An actuator facing the jack contacts the front face of the jack when the connector is inserted into the jack in order to urge the sliding ring contact in a direction opposite to the mating direction and against the force applied by the spring.
US08162693B2
A connector assembly including a connector body with a locking cam defined on an external surface. In a method of use the locking cam cooperates with a perimeter of a knock-out hole into which the connector is to be inserted. During insertion of the connector body the locking cam engages the knock-out hole and deforms a retainer ring so as to permit further insertion. Once the connector body is fully seated, the locking cam cooperates with a locking tang on the retainer ring to hold the connector assembly together.
US08162690B2
A quick mounting device for appliances that is quickly and easily engaged and disengaged mechanically without the use of tools and has at least one modular connection.
US08162686B2
Implementations of the present invention comprise systems, methods, and apparatus for distributing electric power to a plurality of access points within a plurality of spaces. In particular, implementations of the present invention allow for the distribution of electric power from a centralized panel manager, to one or more access points without the use of zone boxes. For example, a panel manager for distributing electric power in accordance with an implementation of the present invention can include a housing configured to allow at least one main input therein. The panel manager can also include a plurality of planar connection interfaces secured within the housing. The planar connection interface can be configured to mate with planar electrical connectors for the distribution of electric power to the plurality of access points.
US08162684B1
An implantable connector electrically connects multi-conductor leads to an implantable medical device such as a neurostimulator. The connector is assembled directly into a hermetic feedthrough of the device and utilizes the feedthrough housing as a sustaining structure for connector pressurization. The feedthrough pins are adapted to directly connect, confine, protect, and precisely position respective resilient compressible contacts. The compressible contacts can be coil springs, metal-particle-filled elastomer buttons, and fuzz buttons, and can be used with rigid tips where a contact preload and/or an enhanced contact tip robustness is desired. In one method of connector assembly an iso-diametric lead proximal terminal is first inserted into a seal without significant interference, and the resulting lead-seal assembly is subsequently installed in a clamping cover. Connector pressurization means include space-efficient latching clips and cam actuated clamping covers which support contact forces and the seal compression by engaging undercuts on the feedthrough housing side walls.
US08162683B2
A miniature electrical connector comprising a floating and vertically orientable spring contact within but not physically secured to an electrically-conductive connector block of a female connector wherein the spring contact and connector block are designed such that the spring contact is vertically oriented and outwardly expanded when a male connector is inserted into the female connector to provide a conductive path between a male contact of the male connector and the connector block of the female connector.
US08162681B2
An electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing latching to the first housing, a resilient component assembled to the second housing, and an earphone jack assembly. The second housing includes a first plate comprising a latching portion; and a resilient component assembled on the second housing. The earphone jack assembly includes a base latching to the latching portion, compressing the resilient component and rotatably assembled to the first housing and the second housing.
US08162679B2
An electric connector for mating with a complementary connector includes an insulation housing, at least an insulation displacement contact, and at least an insulated wire. The insulation housing includes two rows of contact holding portions which are respectively arranged on an upper and lower side of the insulation housing, and two rows of cable holding portions. The cable holding portions are arranged in correspondence with the contacting holding portions and each connected to its corresponding contacting holding portion for forming a passageway along a mating direction. The insulation displacement contact is holed in one of the contact holding portion. The insulated wire extends along the mating direction. And the wire includes a front portion inserted into one of the insulation displacement contact along a vertical direction and a sub-front portion received in one of the cable holding portions along the vertical direction.
US08162673B2
An EMI spring contact for shielding EMI comprises a first section having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, a second section connected to the first section and extending up and angularly from the first end of the first section, a third section connected to the second section and extending down from the second section, and a fourth section connected to the third section. An acute angle is formed between the first and second sections, and a first through hole is defined in the second section. The fourth section extends up and angularly from the third section through the first through hole of the second section and is movably received in the first through hole.
US08162671B2
A receptacle structure includes a housing structure, a terminal insulating board, a first terminal and a second terminal. The housing structure is configured to be mounted on a printed wiring board and to accommodate a plug. The terminal insulating board includes a top face and a bottom face that is opposite to the top face. The terminal insulating board is disposed inside the housing structure with the bottom face facing towards the printed wiring board. The first terminal is connected to the printed wiring board via the first rear connection part and to the terminal insulating board. The second terminal is connected to the printed wiring board via the first front connection part and to the terminal insulating board. The first front connection part has a width narrower than the first rear connection part and is connected to the printed wiring board away from the first rear connection part.
US08162670B2
The present invention is a kit and method of mounting a game animal that allows for antlers or horns to be quickly added or interchanged to an otherwise artificial mount. The method generally comprises the following steps: measuring the game animal, taking at least one picture of the game animal, caping the head, cutting the skull, boiling the skull cap, selecting the form, cutting the skull cap to fit the selected form, drilling holes in the skull cap, adding clay to the form, fitting the skull plate to the form, placing screws through the holes in the skull cap, covering the skull cap attached to the form with flaps from the artificial hair, trimming the excess material from the flaps, tucking the flaps around the antler or horn base, and bending the ears of the form to the desired position. The above-described method creates an odorless trophy that is durable, will remain intact for decades, and which has more consistent, lifelike, and more realistic facial features. The method is time efficient, inexpensive, and can be performed for game animals of all species, sizes, and sexes.
US08162666B2
In accordance with the present invention, multiple networked gaming devices can participate in a secondary type game. A primary game such as poker, rotatable wheels, wheel of fortune or the like is initiated on a gaming device. A predetermined outcome (for example) of the primary game is then used to qualify the gaming device for a secondary type game. A predetermined outcome might be a wheel of fortune SPIN symbol, for example. Once the gaming device is qualified, a secondary game indication cycle is triggered. During this cycle, additional gaming devices can then qualify for the secondary type game by using one or more predetermined primary game outcomes, for example. The secondary type game is then initiated and a secondary game payout awarded to the gaming devices.
US08162662B2
The invention relates to dental devices for isolating a working area, comprising a substantially concave main piece having two upper ends and a substantially round edge on a lower area of the main piece, the round edge being adaptable to a patient's mouth; a substantially concave lower cover attached to the lower area of the main piece; two removable pieces each attached to each of the two upper ends of the main piece; and two upper covers each attached to each of the two removable pieces, the upper covers each having a protuberance to allow attachment of a rubber dam. Also provided are methods for providing isolation of a working area in a patient's mouth.
US08162659B2
In a method for introducing waste substances and/or alternative fuels into a clinker production process, the raw materials, in the form of slurries or suspensions, are subjected to mechanical deagglomeration as a pumpable mass. The pumpable mass is ejected into risers, precalciners and/or the rotary tubular kiln. The device for carrying out the method is characterized by a tubular housing (1) including a rotor (2) mounted to be rotational substantially concentrically with the tube axis and driveable for rotation with blades (3) sweeping over the space between the rotor shaft and the housing wall, wherein a plurality of ducts and openings (6, 7, 11, 14) are connected to the shell of the tubular housing (1), and at least one duct (6) is arranged with the slurry supply and at least one duct is offset in the peripheral direction.
US08162657B2
A removing device includes a fixture, an extendable and retractable arm, a heating rod, and a rotatable head. The fixture includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and a hole extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. The arm is threadedly engaged in the hole. The heating rod is coupled to an end of the arm. The heating rod includes a first portion inserted in the hole and coupled to the arm, and a second portion protruding from the bottom surface. The heater heats the heating rod. The rotatable head is rotatable relative to the fixture to move the heating rod between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the second portion heats the base material of the broken portion of a runner system. In a retracted position, the broken portion of the lens runner system is moved away from the injection mold.
US08162656B2
Disclosed are a microlens array, and a method of positioning and aligning the microlens array on another device. Generally, the microlens array comprises an array of injection molded microlens elements, and a supporting flange. Each of the microlens elements has a generally spheroid or spherical shape, and the supporting flange connects together the array of microlens elements to facilitate positioning that array of lenses on a printed circuit board, semiconductor package or wafer. This array is well suited for use with vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs); and, in particular, the preferred embodiment of the invention addresses the problem of VCSEL laser array alignment by using arrays of microlenses elements fabricated by injection molding.
US08162655B2
A container forming assembly and method includes receiving a parison within a cavity of a mold, enclosing the parison within the mold having a wall with a recess, inflating the parison in the mold to form a blow molded container where the blow molded container has a sidewall, a movable region formed at the recess, and a hinge circumscribing an interface between the sidewall and the movable region, and moving the movable region toward an interior of the blow molded container about the hinge before filling.
US08162648B2
An apparatus for making fiber-reinforced molded articles having a mold surface with a configuration corresponding to at least a portion of a molded article. An electromagnetic energy production element produces electromagnetic energy required to cure the binder. The element is selected from electroluminescent devices, quantum dots and combinations thereof. The element is positioned on the mold surface so as to contact the electromagnetic energy-curable binder with the produced electromagnetic energy while the reinforcing fibers are on the mold surface.
US08162647B2
The present invention provides blowing agent introduction systems and methods for introducing blowing agent into polymeric foam processing systems. The methods may involve introducing one or more doses of blowing agent into polymeric material in an extruder during a plastication period of a molding cycle. Prior to introduction, a dose is confined in an accumulator which, for example, has a volume defined between an inlet valve and an outlet valve. A control system may receive inputs related to system parameters (e.g., pressure of polymeric material in extruder, axial position of screw in barrel, whether screw is rotating, and the like) and based on the inputs coordinates operation of the valves to confine and introduce the blowing agent dose(s). The introduction systems may be used in discontinuous plasticating processes, such as injection molding and blow molding, and can be particularly useful in processes that use precise quantities of blowing agent.
US08162645B2
An apparatus and related method for forming a three-dimensional polymer based part including a die tool having a specified shape and size and exhibiting an exposed polymer adhering surface corresponding in configuration to a polymeric based part to be created. A volume holding bin supports a three-dimensional article including at least one exposed and pattern defining surface. A volume of a granulated polymer material is deposited into the bin and around the article. A sub-volume of the material adheres to and forms a hardened layer upon the exposed pattern defining surface, a corresponding part created having a specified thickness and matching configuration.
US08162642B2
A pneumatic tire tread has tread elements formed by circumferential and/or lateral grooves. At least one tread element has a sipe that devolves from a constant width sipe having a three dimensional aspect in at least a portion of the radially outer portion of the sipe to a wider width groove at the base of the tread feature.
US08162624B2
A refrigerant compressor (1) includes a cylinder block (4), in which a cylinder (14) is arranged, and a cylinder head (16), which covers the front side of the cylinder (14) and is connected to the cylinder block (4) by a plurality of threaded bolts (18, 19). It is endeavored to achieve a good performance with a small mass of the refrigerant compressor. For this purpose, it is ensured that at least two threaded bolts (18) extend through the cylinder block (4) and are screwed into a common mating thread element (23) at the end projecting from the cylinder block (4).
US08162619B2
A system for controlling the pressure output of an engine-driven centrifugal fire pump includes a discharge pressure sensor mounted in the discharge line of the pump. A governor varies the rpms of the engine in response to pressure changes detected by the discharge pressure sensor. If the pressure in the system is higher than the desired output pressure when the engine is running at its idle speed an electronically controlled hydraulic relief valve responsive to the discharge pressure sensor operates to relieve the excess pressure in over pressure situations. If the pressure in the system is lower than the desired output pressure when the relief valve is fully closed, the engine speed is increased.
US08162617B1
A turbine blade with a spar and shell construction in which the spar and the shell are both secured within two platform halves. The spar and the shell each include outward extending ledges on the bottom ends that fit within grooves formed on the inner sides of the platform halves to secure the spar and the shell against radial movement when the two platform halves are joined. The shell is also secured to the spar by hooks extending from the shell that slide into grooves formed on the outer surface of the spar. The hooks form a serpentine flow cooling passage between the shell and the spar. The spar includes cooling holes on the lower end in the leading edge region to discharge cooling air supplied through the platform root and into the leading edge cooling channel.
US08162603B2
A vane frame for a turbomachine and a method for minimizing the weight of a vane frame. The vane frame includes an inner shroud made up of a plurality of inner shroud segments, an outer shroud circumscribing the inner shroud and made up of a plurality of outer shroud segments, and guide vanes structurally interconnecting the inner and outer shrouds. The guide vanes include a plurality of first guide vanes between and connecting first pairs of the inner and outer shroud segments, and a plurality of second guide vanes between and connecting second pairs of the inner and outer shroud segments. The first and second guide vanes are formed of different first and second materials, respectively, with the first material having lower strength, modulus, and/or density than the second material. The structural interconnection between the inner and outer shrouds is dominated by the second guide vanes.
US08162599B2
A blade for a stator in a torque converter including a first face, which includes a first step, and a second face located substantially circumferentially opposite the first face. In one embodiment, the first face includes first and second disjointed or misaligned segments, and the first step connects the first and second segments. In another embodiment, the second face includes a second step. In yet another embodiment, the second face includes third and fourth disjointed or misaligned segments, and the second step connects the first and second segments.
US08162581B2
A releasable locking member, having a handle, a spindle, and a shank connected at a first end to the handle. The shank has an opening extending through along a longitudinal axis thereof. A shaft extends through an opening of the shank. The shaft has a first portion, a second portion, and a central portion extending between the first and second portions. An actuator member is connected to the first portion of the shaft. A spindle is connected to the second portion of the shaft. A biasing member is positioned between the actuator member and a wall of the handle.
US08162575B2
A transport and assembly vehicle for a component module such as an aircraft engine includes a mobile platform which includes support arm structures on which the component module is situated during conveyance and while maintenance work is performed, and which are movable relative to the platform in such a manner that they may assume at least two positions, namely an active position in which they hold the component module, and an inactive position in which they release the component module; the support arm structures of the movable platform include receiving adapters, and the receiving adapters are situated in such a manner that their position is changeable in the longitudinal and transverse directions of the movable platform, so that the transport and assembly vehicle may be used to transport component modules of highly diverse sizes.
US08162570B2
A spraycoating powder feed apparatus includes a powder pump of which the direction of feed is reversible and a conduit switch configured to alternately link either of two powder conduits to a powder hookup of the powder pump as a function of the conveyance direction of the powder pump.
US08162569B2
A high-strength anchor system for anchoring a support to mine strata is disclosed. The system includes an anchor plate and a connecting member on the anchor plate for connection of the support to the anchor plate. Anchor bolts extend through bolt holes in the anchor plate into bore holes in the mine strata. Load-spreading devices extend from respective bolt holes in the anchor plate into the bore holes. The load-spreading devices have outside diameters larger than outside diameters of the anchor bolts for spreading shear loads exerted on the anchor bolts over larger areas of the mine strata. A method of installing such a system and a safe room bulkhead using such a system are also disclosed.
US08162566B2
The drainage element is made with a periphery formed of a filter material that allows the passage of water and prevents the passage of soil and a second peripheral section of net material that allows the passage of water while the preventing the passage of the lightweight aggregate therein. The filter material is preferably made of spun bonded polyester and may be made of a biodegradable material such as starch.
US08162565B2
A material anti-segregation device is for a paving vehicle including a tractor, a screed for forming a mat of paving material on a base surface, and an auger. The anti-segregation device includes a plurality of flexible, elongated barrier members each coupled with the tractor and collectively defining a curtain. The curtain is configured to generally retain paving material between the curtain and the screed. A plurality of couplers are each configured to connect at least a portion of a separate one of the barrier members with the tractor. Each coupler alternatively disconnects the barrier member or portion from the tractor when tension in the connected member exceeds a predetermined value so as to prevent damage to the tractor. As each barrier member is connected with either a portion or component of the tractor, the predetermined tension value is less than a failure limit of the tractor portion or component.
US08162564B2
A method of operating a surface compactor is provided. The method may include supporting a base of the surface compactor on a surface. The method may also include generating a fluctuating vertical force on the base with a vibratory mechanism, which may include moving one or more weights of the vibratory mechanism with a drive system of the vibratory mechanism. Additionally, the method may include sensing a parameter of the operation of the vibratory mechanism that fluctuates in reaction to moving the one or more weights to generate the fluctuating vertical force. The method may also include automatically adjusting the operation of the vibratory mechanism to adjust the fluctuating vertical force based at least in part on the sensed parameter.
US08162563B2
Provided is an aquifer replenishing pavement formed above soil having a sand lens above the aquifer and a clay layer above the sand lens. The pavement includes an aggregate leach field having an aggregate top surface, and an aggregate bottom surface abutting the clay layer. The pavement further includes a pavement layer having an exposed pavement top surface, and a pavement bottom surface abutting the aggregate leach field. A surface drain extends through the pavement layer to drain fluid from the exposed pavement top surface to the aggregate leach field. An aggregate drain extends from the aggregate leach field into the sand lens through the clay layer to drain fluid from the aggregate leach field into the aquifer. A filter is disposed within one of the surface drain and the aggregate drain. The filter is configured to remove foreign particulates from fluid passing therethrough.
US08162562B2
A sorptive-filtration system for removing at least one of negatively or positively charged ions, complexes or particulates from an aqueous stream. The system includes a) flow formed substantially from at least one of rainfall-runoff or snowmelt-runoff; b) a filter containment communicating with the runoff stream such that at least part of the stream passes through the filter containment; and c) a granular filter media disposed within the filter containment, the filter media having an amphoteric material applied thereto, wherein the amphoteric material comprises a metal selected from at least one of Fe, Al, Mn, or Si.
US08162557B2
A multi-axis coupling apparatus for adjustably mounting modular tooling members. The multi-axis coupling apparatus provides a first coupling member connectable to a substantially cylindrical boom for providing linear and rotational adjustment along and about a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical boom. A second coupling member is connected to the first coupling member and is connectable to a modular tooling member for providing adjustment to the modular tooling member about and along an axis extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical boom.
US08162556B2
A ring binder mechanism includes an elongate housing and a ring support supported by the housing for movement relative to the housing. The ring support has an upper surface and a lower surface. A plurality of rings is provided for holding loose-leaf pages. Each ring includes a first ring member and a second ring member. The first ring member is mounted on the ring support for movement with the ring support relative to the housing between a closed position and an opened position. An actuator is mounted on the housing for pivotal movement relative to the housing for moving the rings from their closed position to their opened position. The actuator has a snap-lock connection with the housing.
US08162551B2
A keyboard is configured for using the kinetic energy of the keystroke to generate electricity, the keyboard includes a key, a base, a resilient element connecting to the key and the base to restore the key after the key is pressed, a transmission device slidablely connected to the base, and a generator engaged with the transmission device. When the key is pressed, the transmission device is forced to slide on the base by the key and drive the generator to generate electricity.
US08162541B2
A two-terminal temperature sensor connects a first end of thermistor or other thermometer device to a first electrical terminal via an inner compression coil. A second electrical terminal is connected to a second end of the thermistor via an outer compression coil and a formed conductor. The inner compression coil and thermistor are positioned within the formed conductor. The inner compression coil and thermistor are prevented from contact with the formed conductor by an inner insulating tube. The first and second electrical contacts are mounted in a molded terminal assembly that insulates the electrical contacts from one another. The entire assembly is housed within a housing that is electrically isolated from the formed conductor and outer compression coil via an outer insulating tube and an insulating disk.
US08162528B2
The invention relates to a lamp base (2), in particular a lamp base for a vehicle lamp, the lamp base having a plastic base part (20) with at least one molded stub (21), wherein the plastics material of the plastic base part is mixed with reinforcing fibers (4), the orientation of which in the stub has a preferential direction. This allows the mechanical load-bearing capacity of the stubs to be advantageously increased.
US08162524B2
A light mixing system includes a transparent waveguide having a reflectorized edge, a light input edge and a light output edge opposite the reflectorized edge. The light input edge receives light of different colors from two or more light sources. The received light of different colors is totally internally reflected from opposite major surfaces of the waveguide. Formed inside the waveguide are a plurality of cavities bounded by walls substantially parallel to the edges and substantially orthogonal to the major surfaces of the waveguide. Interaction of the received light of different colors with one or more of the cavities and the reflectorized edge mixes the light of different colors before exiting the light output edge.
US08162521B2
An auxiliary lighting energy interruption system for use with snow plows and like front-mounted vehicle accessories is disclosed which facilitates the interconnection of such systems to the lighting system of a vehicle upon which the vehicle accessory is mounted to provide power to and to control the auxiliary lights with the lighting system of the vehicle. The system provides first and second harness portions for respective installation on the vehicle and the vehicle accessory, with the first harness portion having a first configuration when it is not connected to the second harness portion and a second configuration when it is connected to the second harness portion. The first configuration allow the headlights on the vehicle to operate, while the second configuration allows only the headlights on the vehicle accessory to operate, with changes between the first and second configurations being accomplished without the need for a switch or a relay.
US08162519B2
A lighting arrangement for the interior of an automotive vehicle in which the light source, such as an LED, is recessed into the interior structure of the vehicle and covered with a layer of fabric. The light source is invisible when not in use, but shines through the fabric/foam layer when illuminated, and can be associated with a light transmitting member, such as a light bar and a light pipe. Such lighting arrangements can be disposed within the headliner to direct light where desired and for different functions, such as a map light or for area lighting. The lighting arrangement can be mounted in non-traditional locations, such as on vertically oriented pillars, visors, door panels, seat backs, seat fronts, and console sides. The light source is preferably one or more LEDs associated with a light transmitting medium to direct the discharge of light as desired within the automotive interior.
US08162518B2
An adaptive forward lighting system for a vehicle includes an imaging sensor and a control. The imaging sensor includes a two-dimensional array of light sensing photosensor elements, and monitors a scene forward of the direction of travel of the vehicle. The control processes image data from the imaging sensor. Adjustment between a first beam pattern and a second beam pattern of a headlamp of the vehicle is responsive, at least in part, to the processing of the image data. The control may receive vehicle data via a vehicle communication bus, and may adjust between a first beam pattern and a second beam pattern of a headlamp of the vehicle responsive, at least in part, to the vehicle data. The control may process image data to determine, at least in part, a presence, location or characteristic of an object of interest in the forward field of view of the imaging sensor.
US08162507B2
A lamp unit includes a first light source; a projection lens that forms a light distribution pattern using light radiated from the first light source; a second light source; and a parabola optical system reflector that reflects light radiated from the second light source. The projection lens has a paraxial outer peripheral portion that is closer to a first optical axis than at least part of another outer peripheral portion as seen in the direction of the first optical axis. The parabola optical system reflector reflects light radiated from the second light source such that the reflected light passes through a space adjacent to the paraxial outer peripheral portion.
US08162506B2
An exemplary illuminating apparatus includes a light source, a supporting member, a first film and a second film. The light source includes a substrate and a plurality of light emitting diode arranged on the substrate. The supporting member connected to the substrate. The supporting member includes a light emitting surface at a side thereof distant from the light emitting diodes. The first film and the second film attached to each other and arranged at the light emitting surface of the supporting member. The first film includes a first phosphor doped therein, and the second film includes a second phosphor doped therein. Each of the first phosphor and the second phosphor is capable of being excited by light emitted from the light-emitting diodes and converting a wavelength of the light into a desired wavelength.
US08162505B2
The invention relates to a lighting device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d), comprising—one or more light sources (2, 21); and—one or more housing elements (3) that are disposed so as to be movable relative to said light source(s) (2, 21), the movement of the said housing elements (3) being achieved by means of deformation of said housing elements (3); wherein the deformation of one or more housing elements (3) is controlled by means of one or more actuators (4a, 4b).
US08162502B1
A mirror for facilitating appearance related functions includes a circular ring-shaped frame holding therein back-to-back reflective mirror plates having different magnification factors, e.g. 1× and 5×, each plate having a circular central imaging reflective area and an outer concentric light transmissive window area. Continuously rotatable pivot joints support the frame between opposed arms of a yoke protruding upwardly from a stanchion and base for placement on a table, or an arm and wall bracket for mounting on a wall, enabling the frame to be rotated to interchangeably orient 1× and 5× mirror plates in a forward facing use position. A ring-shaped, printed circuit board with circumferentially spaced apart light emitting diodes (LED's) protruding radially outwards of an outer circumferential edge of the board is located between inner facing surfaces of the mirror plates. Illumination of objects in front of the mirror plates is effected by direct LED rays emitted forwardly through the light transmissive windows, and intensified by indirect LED rays reflected from reflective inner facing surfaces of the mirror plates. Electrical power is supplied to the LED's from a battery power supply in the base of the mirror by electrically conductive pins which protrude radially outwards from opposite sides of the frame, the pins being rotatably supported in electrically conductive cups located in opposed arms of the yoke, the cups being connected to the power supply via wires disposed through the yoke arms and stanchion to the power supply.
US08162498B2
A solid state lighting device, such as a lamp or light fixture, includes a solid state source and one or more semiconductor nanophosphors dispersed in a light transmissive material in the element. The material is of a type and the nanophosphor(s) are dispersed therein in such a manner that the material bearing the semiconductor nanophosphor(s) is at least substantially color-neutral to the human observer, when the solid state lighting device is off. In some examples, the material appears relatively clear or transparent when the device is off. In other examples, the material appears translucent, e.g. white, when the device is off.
US08162491B2
The invention related to a rear view mirror using a plastic glass material to combine several functions as fixing and heating.
US08162488B2
A projection display apparatus includes a light valve, a light source for producing light directed to the light valve, an integrator lens disposed in an optical path extending from the light source to the light valve and including a first lens array and a second lens array, and a light amount adjustment mechanism disposed in the optical path between the first lens array and the second lens array. The light amount adjusting mechanism includes a pair of light shielding elements pivoting in the form of a pair of double doors. The pair of light shielding elements have an opening formed in a region of tip portions thereof which corresponds to lens cells in contact with the optical axis of the second lens array. A region of the opening corresponding to one lens cell in contact with the optical axis of the second lens array is of a triangular configuration.
US08162479B2
A saccadic motion detection system comprised of an optical system that focuses light reflected or emitted from the subject's eye onto an optical navigation chip, which connects to circuitry configured to convert analog light from the eye to digital representations motion of the eye, including saccadic eye movement and processes the information received thereby.
US08162478B2
An object is to reduce the inconvenience given to the binocular vision function when wearing and using spectacles making use of a pair of progressive power lenses having different distance dioptric power for right and left. For this reason, the present invention associates, in a pair of progressive power lenses corresponding to the right and left eyes, an average dioptric power distribution and an astigmatism distribution determined from prescribed dioptric power and a wear state of one of the progressive power lenses with an average dioptric power distribution and an astigmatism distribution determined from prescribed dioptric power and a wear state of the other progressive power lens, and thereby average dioptric power distributions and astigmatism distributions of the respective progressive power lenses are changed.
US08162465B2
A system for recycling waste phase change ink in a phase change ink imaging device includes a waste ink collector positioned within a phase change ink imaging device to collect waste phase change ink produced by a printhead in the phase change ink imaging device. The waste ink collector includes a heater for heating the waste phase change ink in the collector to at least a phase change ink melting temperature. A waste phase change ink conveyor is configured to convey melted waste phase change ink from the waste ink collector to an ink reservoir for the printhead.
US08162464B2
In order to prevent, in an operation for circulating liquid, an ejection port from sucking air or the ejection port from pushing out liquid, the subtank for temporally storing ink to be supplied to the ink jet head includes the air communication passage opened or closed by the air communication valve. The ink jet head is communicated with the subtank by the first passage and the second passage to constitute one circulation passage. In order to circulate the ink in the subtank into the common liquid chamber, the main pump is energized while the air communication valve is being closed. When the circulation operation is stopped, the air communication valve is opened immediately after the stoppage of the main pump, thereby eliminating the differential pressure between the common liquid chamber and the subtank within a short period of time.
US08162461B2
A printer includes a set cover pivotally movably provided on a carriage. The cover can be set in a closed state in which the cover presses a head of the cartridge housed in the housing portion and an open state in which the cover opens the housing portion when the cartridge is replaced. A release lever is subjected to a bias force so as to protrude from an inner wall surface of the housing portion. The release lever is movable against the bias force. The release lever comes into contact with an end of the cartridge which faces the bottom surface when the cartridge is inserted into the housing portion. The release lever contacts the rear surface of the cartridge housed in the housing portion. The bias force is stronger when the cover is in the open state than when the cover is in the closed state.
US08162449B2
A liquid ejecting head includes pressure generation elements that apply pressure change to liquid retained in corresponding pressure generation chambers to discharge the liquid from corresponding nozzle openings. Each of the pressure generation elements is fixed to a fixation plate. Nozzle lines include nozzle openings arrayed in a line. An electrical signal is sent through a flexible substrate from the outside to the pressure generation chambers. Pressure generation elements associated with the pressure generation chambers are fixed to the fixation plate, with the fixation plate being positioned between the pressure generation elements of each of two parallel nozzle lines. A wiring portion is formed at one end part of the fixation plate opposite to the other end that is closer to the pressure generation chambers. The flexible substrate is connected to the wiring portion.
US08162443B2
A method of ejecting droplets of liquid from a paired drop ejector, the method includes the steps of providing a chamber having a dividing wall that forms a first and second portion and the first portion includes a first nozzle mated with a first heater and the second portion includes a second nozzle mated with a second heater; providing liquid to the first portion and second portions of the chamber through an open end of the enclosure; providing a first electrical pulse to the first heater to provide thermal energy for ejecting a droplet of liquid from the first nozzle; and providing a second electrical pulse to the second heater to provide thermal energy for ejecting a droplet of liquid from the second nozzle; wherein the second electrical pulse is delayed relative to the first electrical pulse by a first predetermined delay time.
US08162440B2
Provided are an inkjet printhead and a method of manufacturing the same. The inkjet printhead includes: a substrate including an ink feed hole; a chamber layer formed on the substrate and including a plurality of ink chambers in which ink supplied from the ink feed hole may be filled; and a nozzle layer formed on the chamber layer and including a plurality of nozzles through which ink may be ejected, wherein the chamber layer and the nozzle layer are respectively formed of cured products of a first negative photoresist composition and a second negative photoresist composition, wherein the first negative photoresist composition and the second negative photoresist composition include a bisphenol-A novolac epoxy resin represented by Formula 1; at least one epoxy resin selected from a first epoxy resin represented by Formula 2, and a second epoxy resin represented by Formula 3; a cationic photoinitiator; and a solvent.
US08162439B2
Provided is a method for manufacturing a nozzle plate which has a through hole having an ejection port. In the method, the through hole, which has one opening as an ejection port for ejecting the liquid, is arranged on a Si substrate by an anisotropic etching method wherein etching and side wall protection film formation are alternately repeated to the Si substrate and the following steps are performed in the following order; forming a film to be an etching mask on a surface of the Si substrate whereupon the ejection port is to be formed, forming the etching mask pattern having an opening for forming the thorough hole by performing photolithography and etching to a film to be the etching mask, and performing the etching by the anisotropic etching method by satisfying the conditional expression.
US08162438B2
A rotary inkjet imaging apparatus includes a carrier movable bi-directionally along a linear guide path defined adjacent to a curved print zone and extending parallel to a longitudinal axis thereof, and an inkjet printhead disc having a body and at least one and preferably multiple printhead chips integrated into its perimeter. The disc body is supported by the carrier for undergoing movement within the curved print zone along a curved path winding about a central axis extending parallel to the guide path and coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the curved print zone such that the disc body moves about the central axis multiple revolutions and the printhead chips print on the page concurrently as the carrier unidirectionally moves along the linear guide path and the disc body moves within the curved print zone and through portions of the curved path in which the chips face toward the page.
US08162432B2
A recording apparatus scans a recording head in a main scanning direction to perform time-division driving for a plurality of blocks of recording elements to perform recording. The recording apparatus includes an obtaining unit configured to obtain information regarding inclination of the recording element array with respect to a main scanning direction, a first changing unit configured to change, in units of recording elements, based on the obtained information, storage positions of recording data items that are stored in a storage unit and that are assigned to recording elements in each of groups, each of the groups including recording elements belonging to the blocks in the recording element array which are consecutive, and a second changing unit configured to change, in units of groups, based on the obtained information, the storage positions of the recording data items in the main scanning direction.
US08162411B2
An endless track link that is able to reduce stress concentrations and to improve efficiency of an assembling process of the endless track link is detailed. A stress reinforcing part is formed in the region in which stress concentrations are generated in a window area. The reinforcing part extends in a direction apart from a track shoe and includes an extended part of a through-hole into which a track shoe connecting bolt is inserted. A female thread for engaging with the track shoe connecting bolt is formed at the extended part of the through-hole.
US08162410B2
A crawler belt 20 includes first regions and second regions alternately arranged in a circumferential direction thereof. The first region has at least one first tread lug 25 and the second region has at least one second tread lug 26. The first tread lug 25 has high flexural rigidity and is not easily bent and the second tread lug 26 has low flexural rigidity and is easily bent. The first tread lug 25 catches on an upper end of a high step or bump S with the second tread lug 26 in a bent condition, thus allowing the crawler unit to move over the step or bump.
US08162408B2
A composite rim includes a tire-receiving ring made of metal and a spoke-connecting ring made of plastic. The tire-receiving ring includes at least one dovetail formed on the bottom thereof and two sidewalls formed thereon. The spoke-connecting ring includes two brake-contacting members located tightly outside the sidewalls of the tire-receiving ring, a cross member formed between the brake-contacting members and at least one dovetail groove defined in the cross member for receiving the dovetail.
US08162400B2
One aspect of the present invention can include a connecting apparatus for rotatably connecting a first and second object member of a vehicular seat relative to each other having a first and second connecting member and a holding member. The first and second connecting member are integrated in a direction of matching disks thereof to be able to rotate relative to each other. The first connecting member is integrally attached to the first object member. The second connecting member is integrally attached to the second object member. The holding member straddles outer peripheral surfaces of the first and second connecting member to hold the connecting members in a plate thickness direction. The holding member is provided with an opening portion. The first connecting member is provided with a protruding portion. The protruding portion extends through the opening portion in a radial direction, and the protruding portion is attached to the first object member.
US08162399B2
A lumbar support for a vehicle backrest has a resting element with a front surface shaped for supporting an area of the back of a user; the resting element is connected to a frame of the backrest via elastic elements, which are bistable for allowing the resting element to click from an advanced position to a rearward position when a thrust against the front surface exceeds a given threshold.
US08162397B2
An adjustable seat assembly for a vehicle includes a frame and a covering. The covering has a first portion and a second portion. A flexure region, having an arched shape, is disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The covering at least partially extends over the frame to the first portion. An adjustment mechanism is operatively connected to the covering, at the first portion. The first portion and the second portion define a linear distance therebetween. The adjustment mechanism is configured to move the first portion relative to the second portion such that the flexure region moves to change the linear distance between the first portion and the second portion.
US08162395B2
An automobile entertainment system includes a video system having a video monitor and a video source, and a cradle secured within an automobile. The cradle is shaped and dimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding the video system.
US08162394B2
There is provided a vehicle seat that includes a seat back frame having a pair of side frames disposed in a spaced manner in the right and left direction, a plate-like support body disposed between the pair of side frames to receive a load placed by the rearward movement of a passenger, a transmission section disposed on one side frame side to connect the plate-like support body to the headrest and transmit the load received by the plate-like support body to the headrest side, and an engagement section disposed on the other side frame side, engaging the plate-like support body with the other side frame, and not connected to the headrest. The load received by the plate-like support body is transmitted to the headrest side via the transmission section, thereby moving the headrest.
US08162392B2
A vehicle seat assembly having a seatback frame, an upper armature that is movable relative to the seatback frame and a head restraint mounted on the upper armature. A linkage assembly operatively interconnects the upper armature and an impact body such that movement of the impact body relative to the seatback frame acts on the linkage assembly to move the upper armature relative to the seatback frame to cause the head restraint to move toward the occupant. The linkage assembly includes a linkage and a coupler movably connected to the linkage. The coupler includes a first member movably connected to the seatback frame and a second member movably connected to the first member at a location below the upper end of the impact body.
US08162383B2
A self-coiling dent guard for protecting vehicles and other objects from damage caused by unwanted collisions is disclosed. The guard is comprised of a main body adapted to absorb the impact of colliding objects. A bistable spring strip is integrated within the main body of the guard, thus giving the guard its self-coiling properties. When not in use, a user may cause the guard to coil so as to be easily stored. A magnetic strip is attached to the length of the main body such that the guard may be removably attached to a vehicle or other object. A layer of felt covering the bottom of the guard protects the vehicle from being scratched when the guard is applied or removed.
US08162379B2
In a four-seat coupe, it is inconvenient for a rear-seat occupant to get in/out of the vehicle while a front-seat occupant is seated. In the present invention, the length of each door of the four-seat coupe is set, so that the rear-seat occupant can get off/on the vehicle while the front-seat occupant is seated. The door is provided with detachable first opening/closing mechanisms at its front and rear end portions. The first opening/closing mechanism at the front end portion of the door is adapted to be released when the front-seat occupant gets off/on the vehicle to allow the first opening/closing mechanism at the rear end portion of the door to support the door so that opening/closing motion can be performed. Also, the first opening/closing mechanism at the rear end portion of the door is adapted to be released when the rear-seat occupant gets off/on the vehicle to allow the first opening/closing mechanism at the front end portion of the door to support the door so that opening/closing motion can be performed.
US08162375B2
A vehicle refueling assembly includes a housing through which an inlet pipe is accessed and a door assembly that can be opened and closed relative to the housing. The door assembly includes a hinge and a decorative panel. The hinge includes a seal received in a ledge of the housing when the door assembly is closed.
US08162374B2
A vehicle safety seat system includes a seat, and a frame and support surface that are movable with respect to each other between rest and attenuated positions, wherein the frame and support surface are respectively a first and second distance apart. A biasing mechanism biases the frame and support surface to the rest position between blast and slam down phases. A damper coupled between the frame and support surface has blast and rebound recovery resistance settings. The blast resistance setting is set to a predetermined value based on a weight of a seat occupant. The damper, during the blast phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the attenuated position based upon the blast resistance setting, and after the blast phase and prior to the slam down phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the rest position based upon the rebound recovery resistance setting.
US08162369B2
An engagement member (29), which is activated by operation of an operating button (40), is configured to be protruded from and retracted into respective positioning recesses (15, 16), facilitating the positional adjustment of a lid (3) and securing a high position-retaining force for the lid (3) in normal use. In order to cope with an accidental external force, a base member (7) includes a cantilever member (51) formed of slits, and the cantilever member (51) has a positioning recess (16) formed in a leading portion such that the cantilever member (51) is flexed to bring the engagement member (29) out of engagement with the positioning recess (16) when a load having a certain value or more is applied through the engagement member (29).
US08162366B1
A gripper assembly is provided. The gripper assembly comprises an actuator and a plurality of gripper fingers. The plurality of gripper fingers are slidably mounted on the actuator. The actuator is configured to slide each of the plurality of gripper fingers along a respective radial path perpendicular to a central axis of the gripper assembly. Each of the plurality of gripper fingers comprises a body and a vacuum evacuation path defined within the body. The body is configured to couple the vacuum evacuation path to a vacuum source and to evacuate particles from a grip area of the gripper assembly via the vacuum evacuation path when a vacuum is applied by the vacuum source.
US08162361B2
A fire poker is provided which is comprised of an elongate shaft, a handle at one end of the shaft and a longitudinal hook member near the second end of the shaft. The shaft has a bend located at a position between the handle and the hook member. Alternatively, the shaft may have a plurality of bends located at positions between the handle and the hook member. The plurality of bends divides the shaft into a plurality of sections, and the section of the shaft that contacts the hook member is preferably in the same plane as the section that contacts the handle. The at least one bend in the shaft of the fire poker provides for a device that is more comfortable to wield, is better from an ergonomic perspective and allows for considerably easier manipulation of the fuel of a fire.
US08162360B2
A handle knob to conduct an opening/closing operation of a front door is provided on an outer-face side of an outer panel, and a handle base to pivotally support the handle knob is provided on an inner-face side of the outer panel. A beltline reinforcement to reinforce an beltline portion of the outer panel is provided on the inner-face side of the outer panel. The handle base is connected to the beltline reinforcement via an connecting portion. Thereby, the support rigidity of the handle base can be increased, thereby properly preventing the handle base from moving by an improper access.
US08162351B2
Provided is a small mobile robot which moves back and forth and left and right while keeping its posture by two main wheels. The small mobile robot includes built-in auxiliary wheels to overcome topographical elevation differences. The auxiliary wheels of the small mobile robot are attached to a servomotor. The servomotor is driven by remote control, and the auxiliary wheel can be moved to the position required for operation. When the robot is in a normal state, the auxiliary wheels are retracted in the robot. When the robot meets a stepped topography, the auxiliary wheels are lowered out to contact a ground to support the main wheels going over the stepped topography. The small mobile robot includes a sensor for sensing obstacles and a control module to make a detour around obstacles while moving to a target point.
US08162348B2
A folding cart (20) includes a frame (22) having a first extendable leg and a second extendable leg. A bag support (30) connects the first extendable leg with the second extendable leg and defines a first plate (44) adjacent the first extendable leg. A second plate (46) is defined on the bag support (30) adjacent the second extendable leg. A vertical hinge (48) rotatably connects the first plate (44) with the second plate (46) such that the first plate (44) can rotate relative to the second plate (46) about a bag support (30) axis of rotation such that the cart (20) is can be folded when not in use.
US08162343B2
A mounting device is shown for mounting components to a bicycle handlebar having a handlebar axis. The mounting device includes a mounting bracket mountable to the handlebar about the handlebar axis. The mounting bracket includes a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion hingedly connected to the first clamp portion to interiorly receive the handlebar. An interior channel is defined by spaced sidewalls and formed in a portion of the circumferential length of one of the first and second clamp portions, and a hole is formed through the clamp portion and opens to the channel.
US08162340B2
A mechanism for shifting a chain from one sprocket to another sprocket is disclosed herein. The mechanism preferably includes rotor assembly, a control element and a chain tensioner. The rotor assembly preferably has a conical shaped body with a chain slot having clearance windows and cam surfaces. The control element rotates the rotor assembly to shift the chain from one of the sprockets to another sprocket without lateral movement of the rotor assembly.
US08162336B1
A wind actuated bicycle sail for automatically unfurling a sail assembly to utilize tail winds to facilitate forward movement of a bicycle includes a sail guide member designed for coupling to a bicycle. A sail assembly is coupled to the sail guide member. A sail pivot bracket arm is fixedly coupled to the bicycle and pivotally coupled to the sail assembly. The sail assembly is also slidably coupled to the sail guide member such that the sail assembly moves between an open position and a collapsed position when the sail assembly pivots on the sail pivot bracket arm.
US08162335B1
The present invention is directed to a Raised Axle and Suspension System that consists of a unique design that is intended to be used on a wide variety of front wheel drive vehicles and trailers by raising the axle overarm to an overhead position. This is accomplished by having the wheels on stub axles attached to a pivoting wheel support castings that are attached to frame attachment members. Angular support members are fixably attached to the frame attachment members and suspension support members that connect to the axle overarm. The axle overarm extends from the left side of the vehicle to the right side. The suspension springs extend between the suspension base members that are pivotally connected to the wheel support castings and the suspension support members along with conventional shock absorbers creating a spring cushioning system.
US08162330B2
A Multi-Purpose Mobile Cart including a tool chest adapted to hold tools, a computer system for executing computer executable programs, a plurality of electrical devices, and a plurality of speakers; a computer system for executing computer executable programs including a monitor for viewing images, a computer hard drive for storing data and programs, a keyboard adapted to input information into the computer system, and a mouse adapted to provide a user interface with the computer system; a plurality of electrical devices adapted to provide reception and amplification of radio or television signals and further adapted to provide playback of media; and a plurality of speakers, the plurality of speakers adapted to provide audio output from the computer system and the plurality of electrical devices.
US08162329B1
An apparatus to aid in the moving and transportation of heavy doors or large sheet-type materials comprises a pair of joined “L”-shaped brackets mounted upon a folding hinge. The hinge allows the weight of the carried material to fold the apparatus inwardly thus securely gripping the loaded items within. Each “L”-shaped bracket comprises a front plate which secures the load in a lower corner area while allowing the user to lift and support the other bottom corner. The apparatus is supported via two (2) wheel assemblies each supported by separate axles. To use the apparatus, a door is placed with its forward corner in the apparatus. The rear portion of the door is then lifted and balanced by the user while being pushed where the door is needed. The low profile design of the apparatus allows the load to be transported through narrow hallways or doorways.
US08162323B2
A leaf seal arrangement is provided in which within a housing there are edge portions to inter associate with non parallel chamfer edges in leaf seal elements. In such circumstances, deflection of the leaf seal elements in an outward direction or inward direction relative to a rotating shaft creates variation in a control gap X, XX between the edges and the chamfer edge. Such increase or decrease in the control gap X, XX adjusts the aerodynamic radial force that is presented to the leaf seal elements whereby those elements can be more accurately maintained at a desired leaf position for optimizing leakage while achieving better wear resistance performance.
US08162315B2
A peeling device is provided and includes: a rotating body that conveys a recording material; a peeling member capable of changing from a first state in which the peeling member is away from the rotating body to a second state in which the peeling member is closer to the rotating body than the peeling member in the first state is, the peeling member in the second state peeling off the recording material from the rotating body; and a gas spraying unit that sprays a gas to the peeling member to bring the peeling member from the first state to the second state.
US08162314B2
An image printing apparatus includes a printing unit and a supporting member opposing the printing unit and having a supporting surface for supporting the printing medium. The image printing apparatus further includes a first pair of rollers disposed upstream of the printing unit, a second pair of rollers and a third pair of rollers which are disposed downstream of the printing unit. The image printing apparatus further includes a guide member disposed between the second pair of rollers and the third pair of rollers. The guide member includes a guide portion which guides the printing medium transported by the second pair of rollers. The guide member is configured to pivot between a slanting position and a laying position.
US08162302B2
Disclosed is an automated dolly assembly that includes a body including a frame and a top surface, a sync arm and a support arm connected to the body, and at least one switch disposed on the body to control movement of the support arm. The sync arm is capable of movement between a first position and a second position, and when the sync arm is in the first position, the sync arm is free from contact with a portion of a workpart carrier traveling along a rail of an overhead conveyor. When the sync arm is in the second position, the sync arm contacts a portion of the workpart carrier. The support arm is also capable of movement between a first position and a second position, and when the support arm is in the first position, the support arm is free from contact with a portion of the workpart carrier. When the support arm is in the second position, the support arm contacts a portion of the workpart carrier.
US08162272B2
A window maintenance apparatus for a tilt-in sash includes a base leg for extending generally upwards from a floor towards a window. The base leg includes a first foot for resting on the floor. A hinged leg is joined to the base leg proximate an end of the base leg for extending generally downwards towards the floor. The hinged leg includes a second foot for resting on the floor. An extension tube extends upwardly from the base leg where a length of the extension tube above the base leg is adjustable. A locking mechanism locks the extension tube at an adjusted length above the base leg. A first sash support is rotatably joined at a first position on the extension tube for rotating about the extension tube from a first position to a second position for supporting the tilt-in sash in a generally horizontal position.
US08162271B2
A support frame with an adjustable mechanism includes a fasten base, a displacement cylinder and an air pressure bar. The fasten base has a guiding cylinder. The displacement cylinder is sleeved with the guiding cylinder and has a relative motion relative to the guiding cylinder. One end of the air pressure bar is fastened with the fasten base and is located in the guiding cylinder. The displacement cylinder is fastened with another end of the air pressure bar and moves as the length of the air pressure bar changes.
US08162260B2
A monomolecular carbon-based film can be placed on an aircraft part, such as the leading edge designed to directly impinge against air during flight, ascent or descent, in order to form a smooth surface having increased lubricity and reduced air friction. The aircraft part may be in the form of a helicopter rotor, wing, propeller, fin, aileron, nose cone, and the like. The monomolecular carbon-based film can be deposited on the aircraft part, for example, using a reactor that includes a bed of silica and through which emissions from a diesel engine are passed. The monomolecular carbon-based film decreases air friction and increased lift of a modified aircraft that includes an aircraft part treated with the film. It also provides a structured shock absorber.
US08162258B2
The invention relates to a rest module for accommodating a least one crew member of an aircraft, wherein the module comprises a first partial module. Further on the first partial module comprises a first section and a second section; wherein the first section and the second section are spatially divided. The first section comprises a first opening, a second opening and a third opening, wherein the three openings are different from each other. The first opening is adapted for providing an access from an above located area of the aircraft, the second opening is adapted for providing an access from the first section to a second partial module and the third opening is adapted for providing a separate access from the first section to the second section.
US08162253B2
A convertible combined road, water, and aircraft vehicle has a road form, a water form, and an aircraft form. The vehicle includes a vehicle body having a passenger compartment and wheels supporting the vehicle body on the ground when in the road form. A wing assembly is attached to each side of the vehicle body. Each wing assembly includes a wing and at least one propelling device attached to the wing. The propelling devices may be jet engines, or ducted fans or in-wing propellers. A wing assembly rotating mechanism rotates the wing assembly 360 degrees when the vehicle is in the aircraft form so that thrust is provided in 360 degrees, allowing for vertical takeoff and landing and mid air hovering. A wing assembly positioning mechanism positions the wing assembly between an open-winged flying position and a folded or closed-winged non-flying position. A rear propelling assembly is provided to propel the vehicle in the air, and a tail assembly is provided which includes elements for maneuvering the vehicle in the air and water. The rear propelling assembly includes a rear propelling device and a propelling device positioning mechanism capable of positioning the rear propelling device through a range of at least 90 degrees between a position for providing the vehicle with vertical lift or thrust and a position for providing the vehicle with forward thrust. The rear propelling device may be a jet engine or a propeller. An operator's control unit is disposed in the passenger compartment with which an operator controls vehicle.
US08162251B2
A winder for winding continuous webs or interleaved web segments into rolls is disclosed. The winder has first and second rollers, a pressure assist device, a winding spindle, and a continuous belt having first and second surfaces. The belt is disposed about the first and second rollers. The web material is disposed upon at least a portion of the first surface of the belt. The winding spindle receives the web material when the spindle is proximate to the web material disposed upon the first surface of the belt. At least one of the longitudinal axis of the first roller and the longitudinal axis of the second roller is adjustable relative to the winding spindle. The pressure assist device is disposed proximate to the second surface of the belt and is adjustable relative to at least one of the second surface of the belt and the winding spindle.
US08162237B2
A valve assembly including a block forming a bore. An air inlet opening is in communication with the bore, and provides a volume of air into the bore. The bore provides communication between the air inlet opening and at least one air outlet passage. A fuel inlet opening is in communication with the bore, and provides a volume of fuel into the bore. The bore provides communication between the fuel inlet opening and at least one fuel outlet passage. A pintle is slidably positionable within the bore to control the volume of air directed out of the bore through the air outlet passage and the volume of fuel directed out of the bore through the fuel outlet passage.
US08162236B2
A water delivery system is disclosed. The water delivery system may have an electronic user interface. The electronic user interface may be a portable device. The electronic user interface may include inputs to select water temperature, water flow rates, water flow patterns, and/or task based presets. A mixing valve for use with either manual faucets or electronic faucets is disclosed.
US08162230B2
An RFID device including: electronic circuitry suitable for an RFID device comprising a radio frequency section; an antenna; a battery which provides the device with power; and at least one quarter wavelength transmission line coupled between the battery and one or both of the electronic circuitry and the antenna.
US08162229B1
A system and technique is disclosed for manufacturing a plurality of financial transaction cards substantially simultaneously even though their respective parameters, including the format of data in a readable/writable medium thereon, may vary from card to card. A surface of the financial transaction card contains terms and conditions and graphics, a writable/readable medium for storing variable data and a two-dimensional data matrix. The writable/readable medium may be implemented with a strip of magnetic material applied to the surface of the card, a smart chip carried on the card substrate, a two dimensional data matrix such as a barcode printed on the surface of the card such or any combination thereof. The variable data may be recorded on the writable/readable medium and may include an identifier which uniquely identifies the gift card from all other gift cards in the production set. The data stored in the two dimensional barcode serves as a reference to a data record, which may include data identifying another item, such as a greeting card or other carrier mechanism this, with which the gift card may be matched.
US08162224B2
A method and apparatus for setting the amount of exposure for the photodetector array in a barcode scanner. An image is captured with the photodetector array. The type for each sub-region in the multiple sub-regions in the image captured is determined. Each sub-region in the multiple sub-regions is assigned a weight based on the type of the sub-region. The amount of exposure for the photodetector array in the barcode scanner is set automatically based on the weight for each sub-region in the multiple sub-regions. In some embodiments, the predetermined image area are repartitioned into new multiple sub-regions based on the image captured, and the amount of exposure for the photodetector array in the barcode scanner is set automatically based on the weight for each sub-region in the new multiple sub-regions.
US08162212B2
The price tag system of the present invention has the advantages of reliability, easy to install and low cost. Using the system of the invention, the prices can be easily updated even from a remote location. In addition, if there is one defective panel, the defective panel can be easily removed and replaced without any changes made to the base structure, which also greatly reduces the operation costs.
US08162209B2
Entertainment credits from a game of chance can be identified. The entertainment credits can be associated with an entity with which a user has previously interacted. The previous interactions can earning the entertainment credits, which are non-negotiable credits. Responsive to a user request, a conversion agency can convert a quantity of the entertainment credits to a quantity of negotiable funds, wherein the conversion agency is not directly associated with the entity. The user can be permitted to access the quantity of negotiable funds within a vender storefront physically proximate and distinctly independent of the entity, wherein the quantity of negotiable funds are able to be applied to user specified purchases within the storefront, wherein the vender does not honor the non-negotiable credits.
US08162208B2
Systems and methods for the generation of user identification strings (UIS) used with multi-function operation vehicles are provided. In some embodiments, a system for activating a user operation vehicle can include an activation portal, a verifier and a UIS generator. The activation portal can request a base UIS and a vehicle code identifying a user operation vehicle be supplied by a user. Then, using an encryptor and a communications module, the activation portal can generate an encrypted base UIS and communicate the encrypted base UIS and the vehicle code to the verifier. The verifier can then authenticate the user and identify functions that are linked to the user operation vehicle. The UIS generator can include a decryptor and a UIS generation module to generate a unique account-specific UIS from the encrypted base UIS for each account linked to the user operation vehicle by modifying the base UIS.
US08162207B2
A cost-effective, currency dispense and control system (CDCS) securely dispenses paper money in one of the following modes: (1) an ATM system and (2) a currency control system that allows a merchant or merchant-approved employee to withdraw cash from the CDCS independent of a standard ATM electronic fund transfer (EFT) network. The CDCS may also include the following functionalities: a duress dispensation system that allows the CDCS to activate an alarm and/or otherwise communicate with local police or security services during a robbery, a time-release system that effects a time-delayed dispensation functionality, and a user identification and authentication system for authenticating a user identity and determining eligibility of the user to access the currency control system.
US08162201B2
The present invention consists in a system and a method for installation of duct lines and/or pipelines comprising a pipe shop, supporting, rolling and guiding elements previously provided along a path of duct line/pipeline designed to be formed, the quantity of elements varying according to the length and the characteristics of the path, the said pipe shop comprising within the same a facility for welding, inspection and finishing of the pipes for forming the duct line/pipeline, the elements comprising a supporting base and a roller.
US08162200B2
A portion of compliant material includes four walls defining a slot. The slot has a relatively large cross-section end in fluid communication with a solder reservoir, and also has a relatively small cross-section end opposed to the relatively large cross-section end. The slot has a generally elongate rectangular shape when viewed in plan, with a length perpendicular to a scan direction, a width, parallel to the scan direction, associated with the relatively large cross section end, and a width, parallel to the scan direction, associated with the relatively small cross section end. The slot is configured in the portion of compliant material such that the relatively small cross-section end of the slot normally remains substantially closed, but locally opens sufficiently to dispense solder from the reservoir when under fluid pressure and locally unsupported by a workpiece. Methods of operation and fabrication are also disclosed.
US08162196B2
A device for processing a belt strap for storing screws, in which the belt strap has a flat, U-shaped cross section that has a periphery that has a ratio of no more than 11:10 relative to the non-flanged belt. A guide device for the belt strap guides and holds the belt strap. The screws can be pressed out from the upper side of the belt strap. The guide device (3) has two guide slits (10) receiving the belt strap (2) in at least the region of the flanges (4), each slit being L-shaped in cross section and each having a contact surface (5) for the underside (6) of the belt (20) and a guide rib (11) extending across the flange (4). A distance (M) of each guide rib (11) from the contact surface (5) has a value greater than the belt thickness (D) and less than a length (Q) of a corner diagonal (12) of the belt strap (2) extending in the U-shaped cross section between the points at which the inner side (7) of the flange (4) intersects the upper side (9) of the belt (20) and one of the outer sides (17) of the belt strap (2) intersects the underside (6) of the belt (2).
US08162185B2
A viscous material processing system has a chamber to hold containers shaped as drums and has a plunger that presses into the interior of the drum to press out its highly viscous contents. The chamber has a hinged enclosure that has a hydraulically activated clamp that connects the two sides of the hinged enclosure that is controlled by a controller in a methodical way. The hydraulically activated clamp can be arranged in series and also has a relief cartridge and pressure sensor to prevent the drum from over pressurized. The processing system also has viscous material compounding system that receives and uses the material provided by the drums.
US08162180B2
A collapsible container for storing, transporting, and dispensing liquids which includes a generally rectangular shaped box, a spout which is fluidly interconnected to the box, a pouring spout member which is attachable to the spout, a handle, and a support member which maintains the position of the spout relative to the box. The pouring spout member may form a non-releasable connection with the spout to allow for single use of the container. The container may be configured such that, when viewed in lateral cross section and when viewed in longitudinal cross section, the container includes a continuous band of material surrounding the interior volume of the container that is maintained during storage, expansion, and use.
US08162175B2
A data processing system is used to manage and track use of chemical product in a washing machine. A detergent dispenser distributes the chemical products (e.g., detergent, rinse agent, and bleach) to the washing machine. The dispenser includes a monitor that detects dispenser data based on distribution of the chemical product by the dispenser. A database is coupled to the dispenser and stores an account identifier and an alignment identifier in association with the dispenser data of the dispenser. The database further stores corporate data in association with the dispenser data, the account identifier, and the alignment identifier. An analysis application analyzes the dispenser data in relation with the corporate data to characterize use of the chemical product in the chemical application system and provide a feedback loop. The analysis application can limit its analysis to data associated with a given account identifier or a given alignment identifier.
US08162173B2
The invention relates to a golf ball dispenser having an upper container which houses the golf balls and a flange which receives the balls from the container and which supplies the balls individually to a dispensing arm. The dispensing arm, which is disposed such that it is essentially vertical in the rest position, includes structure for pivoting around a horizontal axis when a golf ball is being dispensed, the pivot structure is disposed in the upper part thereof close to the above-mentioned flange.
US08162171B2
A device includes an upper portion, a lower portion including a flat bottom portion, and a retaining strap connected to the upper portion at a first connector and removably connected to a second connector. The upper portion is adapted to removably connect with a half of an apple.
US08162170B1
A beverage container that includes at least a bottom portion with a side portion extending from the bottom portion, and a balance mass in pressing engagement with the bottom portion is disclosed. The balance mass is adjacent an inner surface of the bottom portion in a preferred embodiment, and adjacent an outer surface in an alternate preferred embodiment. In each embodiment, the balance mass includes at least a core portion encapsulated by an encapsulant, in which the density of the core is greater than the density of a beverage of the beverage container. In the alternate preferred embodiment, the balance mass further includes a tip lip portion with a condensate retention ridge, and a condensate aperture. The condensate retention ridge, in cooperation with a side portion of the balance mass, forms a condensate channel, and the condensate aperture drains condensate from the condensate channel.
US08162167B2
A storage tank having an inner vessel disposed within an outer vessel. A common-access tube or conduit is used to route the various fluid flow lines into the interior of the inner vessel. The common-access tube facilitates modular construction and assembly of the storage tank.
US08162164B2
A transport tank system includes a molded thermoplastic tank defining an aperture therethrough and having a discharge end and an opposing end, the thermoplastic tank being rigidly configured for holding a consumable cargo received through the aperture and including a material resistant to passage of oxygen to preserve the consumable cargo. The tank is capable of standing alone for storing the consumable cargo, or the tank can be loaded into a standard dry box container to convert the dry box container into a bulk liquid transport container.
US08162156B1
An implement holder adapted to hold implements having slender, elongate handles is described. Embodiments of the implement holder comprise resilient foam in which slots for holding slender implements reside. Various embodiments are adapted to hold dental instruments, percussion implements such as drumsticks, mallets, and brushes, and artist implements such as pens, pencils, and paint brushes.
US08162148B2
A weight filling device for filling small objects comprising a vibrating feed assembly, at least two bins in a side by side orientation, and a chute assembly. The feed assembly includes feed stations having a feed tray with a large feed portion and a small feed portion in a side by side orientation, either integrally formed along a part or all of the length thereof, and each extending to a distal end thereof and vibrating at a predetermined frequency. The bins are positioned so as to be placeable in communication with the distal end of the at least one feed tray. The chute assembly is positioned below the distal end of the at least one feed tray, and has at least one directing chute station having a large feed selector positioned below the large feed portion of the feed tray and a small feed selector positioned below the small feed portion of the feed tray. The large feed selector and the small feed selector are independently pivotable relative to each other between a first position and a second position to direct small objects into the proper bin. The frame for holding the containers to be filled is also vertically adjustable.
US08162146B2
A system for incontinence maintenance and method employed, of which the system is useful in incontinent care. A plurality of products suitable for use in an incontinence maintenance event are provided in a configuration stacked in the order of anticipated use of individual ones of the products, the first product anticipated for use being uppermost in the stack. A container is provided having a bottom compartment carrying the stack and a top compartment defining a flap extending from the bottom compartment. The container includes means for defining an opening in the bottom compartment to access the stack of goods and for accepting soiled goods therein, and means for resealing the bottom compartment to contain the soiled goods.
US08162139B2
A sharps disposal system for safely collecting and disposing of medical sharps includes a cabinet defining an enclosure for receiving a removable used sharps receptacle therein. The cabinet includes a passageway through which sharps may be deposited in the sharps receptacle. A single lock, double door design facilitates safe removal and disposal of sharps deposited in the sharps receptacle.
US08162135B2
A package for holding a plurality of containers. The package has panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the package. The panels comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, and an intermediate panel. At least one bottom aperture in the bottom panel is for at least partially receiving a container of the plurality of containers. At least one intermediate aperture is in the intermediate panel for at least partially receiving the container. At least one retention flap foldably is attached to the intermediate panel adjacent to the at least one intermediate aperture. The at least one retention flap is for providing a retention force to the container to restrain the container from removal from the package.
US08162131B2
An apparatus for extending the wear life of flight bars used in chain-driven scraper conveyor systems by using a replaceable bar end. The bar end is securely attached to the flight bar body by a tongue protruding through an aperture in the bar end and interlocking with the clamp that secures the flight bar to the drive chain, without the use of additional fasteners. The replaceable bar end may be made from a different material than the body of the flight bar. Therefore, a wear resistant material could be used for the bar end, with the bar body and clamp made from conventional, typically more ductile materials. This invention therefore allows for the flight bar end to be replaced as required saving the cost of the main flight bar body and clamp.
US08162125B1
An input receptacle receives currency bills and checks. A transport mechanism transports the bills and checks along a transport path to an output receptacle. An image scanner, adjacent the transport path, is configured to generate one or more electrical signals from which image data can be derived. The image data is reproducible as a visually readable image of at least a portion of each of the plurality of documents. A controller is configured to determine a denomination of each of the currency bills. In response to the controller not determining a denomination of one of the currency bills, the controller flags the currency bill as a no-call document by causing at least a portion of the image data to be displayed as a visually readable image of the flagged currency bill on the display.
US08162120B2
A friction clutch for a drive train, the clutch including a pressure plate rotatably fixed and axially displaceable relative to a housing. A disc spring is provided between the housing and the pressure plate to axially act on the pressure plate. An adjusting device is effective between the housing and the disc spring to compensate for friction lining wear of a clutch plate that interacts with the pressure plate when the clutch is operated in the drive train. The disc spring is pivotable relative to an annular support carried by the housing. An axial force is applied to the disc spring in the direction of the support by springs that include a leaf-spring, a sensor spring, and an additional spring.
US08162117B2
A torque transmission device in the drive train of a motor vehicle for transmitting torque, which has a clutch, particularly a dual-clutch, and a support tube that extends in the axial direction towards a housing, essentially a gear mechanism housing, and is radially arranged within at least one actuator bearing, in particular two actuator bearings, as well as a bearing device for the clutch. Part of the clutch cover facing the housing is supported by the bearing device for the clutch.
US08162114B2
A roller-type one-way clutch includes an outer race with a pocket with a cam surface, an inner race, and a plurality of rollers disposed on the pocket, engaged in the cam surface, and transmitting torque between the outer race and the inner race. The clutch further includes a cage provided with a cylindrical part and a window provided in the cylindrical part, holding the plurality of rollers, and a spring provided on the pocket, one end of which is latched to the outer race, and the other end of which is configured for preventing movement of the rollers in the axial direction. The spring energizes the rollers in the engagement direction with the cam surface, and the cage is configured so that it is prevented from dropping off in the axial direction.
US08162112B2
Methods and apparatus for accommodating vehicle suspensions that may bottom out. Some embodiments of the present invention include the secondary shock absorber placed within a primary shock absorber. Yet clear embodiments describe a shock absorber having multiple fluid flowpaths during compression, with one of the flowpaths being active near the bottoming-out condition.
US08162107B2
The invention relates to a load suspension means for a lifting apparatus (11), which can be fitted on a lifting column (16) of the lifting apparatus (11) and has a transverse support (24) and at least one load suspension element (26) which is arranged thereon and is provided in a manner such that it can be displaced along the transverse support (24) for adjustment to a load suspension point on an object to be raised, wherein, for adjustment to the load suspension point, the at least one load suspension element (26) can be transferred by a pivoting movement, which is delimited by a lift-off safeguard (56), from and into a secured load suspension position without a tool.
US08162103B2
This silencer (10) for a motor vehicle exhaust line of the type comprising: a casing (12) internally delimiting an exhaust volume; an exhaust gas inlet (16) opening into the exhaust volume; and an exhaust gas outlet pipe (18) communicating with the exhaust volume and having an outlet orifice (30) to the outside of the silencer (10), is characterized in that the outlet pipe (18) comprises a section (32) pressed against the casing (12), the casing (12) having at least one perforation placing the pressed section (32) in communication with the exhaust volume.
US08162078B2
Disclosed is an apparatus for vibrating a downhole drill string operable to have a drilling fluid pumped therethrough. The apparatus comprises a tubular body securable to the drill string and having a central bore therethrough, a valve in the tubular body for venting the drilling fluid out of the drill string and a valve actuator for cyclically opening and closing the valve. The method comprises pumping a drilling fluid down the drill string and cyclically venting the drilling fluid through the valve so as to cyclically reduce the pressure of the drilling fluid in the drill string. The valve may comprise a tubular body port and a corresponding rotor port selectably alignable with the tubular body port as the rotor rotates within the central bore. The valve actuator may comprise at least one vane on the rotor for rotating the rotor as the drilling fluid flows therepast.
US08162073B2
A device for impacting a fastener in one embodiment includes a drive mechanism configured to impact a fastener, a lever arm pivotable between a first position and a second position, and a motor including a plurality of permanent magnets mounted on a rotatable housing, the motor mounted on the lever arm such that when the lever arm is in the first position, the rotatable motor housing is isolated from the drive mechanism and when the lever arm is in the second position, the rotatable motor housing is positioned to transfer rotational energy to the drive mechanism.
US08162068B2
A pilot valve assembly for regulating the output of a first pressure source relative to a second pressure source, a fluid system equipped with the valve assembly, and a method of operating the valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve body with inlet and outlet ports and first and second sensing ports. The first and second sensing ports are adapted to sense, respectively, the fluid pressures of the first and second pressure sources. The inlet port is adapted for fluidically connecting to the first pressure source. The valve assembly defines a flow path between the inlet and outlet ports, and has components for allowing fluid flow from the inlet port, through the flow path, and to the outlet port only if the fluid pressure of the first pressure source exceeds the fluid pressure of the second pressure source by a differential by the flow-allowing components.
US08162066B2
A downhole tool has housing components that are relatively movable. One of the components is supported downhole while a control line provides fluid pressure to move the other housing component relative to the supported component to put the tool in a first position. Loss of control line pressure allows the weight of tubulars bearing on the upper housing or rods to move it to put the tool in another position. The tubing weight overcomes the hydrostatic pressure in the control line even when there is no applied pressure in the control line to cause relative housing or rods movement to operate a tool. In that sense the tool can be fail safe to shut off flow, for example, on loss of control line pressure while reducing or elimination the need for a large return spring to offset hydrostatic pressure.
US08162065B2
A system for operating downhole equipment in a well includes a drive shaft extending from a surface of the well to a downhole location. A motor is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to selectively rotate the drive shaft. A lift system is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to axially lift and lower the drive shaft.
US08162048B2
A method for the controlled delivery of a fracturing fluid to a well bore comprises formulating an aqueous base fluid such that it meets or exhibits desired physical and chemical characteristics for an optimal fracturing fluid. The formulation of the aqueous base fluid max involve commingling one or more sources of waste water with a source of fresh water followed by controlled injection of one or more additives. This process is substantially completed prior to delivering the aqueous base fluid to the well site. This allows the delivery of an optimal volume of the aqueous base fluid with homogeneously blended additives to the well bore.
US08162045B2
Methods and apparatus for connecting a tubular to a tubular string are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus suitable for engaging, compensating, and connecting a tubular includes one or more compensating pistons, an engaging assembly for engaging a tubular, and a connector for connecting the engaging assembly to the one or more compensating pistons while allowing for rotation of the tubular relative to the compensation pistons.
US08162040B2
A heated energy system includes an integral ceramic insert heat exchanger having an integral ceramic construction and an outer ceramic wall that is helical in shape. When the heat exchanger is positioned within a surrounding fluid path enclosure, the outer ceramic wall forms, with the enclosure, at least one spiral path for flowing products of energy generation. No more than one insert body has an outer wall that is helical in shape that is present along the first length of the surrounding fluid path enclosure. The outer ceramic wall receives heat energy when the products of energy generation flow through the fluid path.A method for fabricating integral ceramic insert heat exchangers includes using a tool having a silicon carbide channel and a cavity channel, the silicon carbide channel extending at least partially outside the cavity channel in directions defined by a rotational plane of the tool.
US08162035B2
A cold plate and method for cooling using the cold plate are disclosed. The cold plate includes a housing having hyperporous, microchannel ceramic foam strips disposed therewithin. A plurality of plugs formed from a high thermal conductivity material are disposed into the ceramic foam strips. Heat is transferred in an extremely efficient manner by leveraging the high thermal conductivity of the plugs to transfer the energy deep into a high internal surface area ceramic foam, which in turn transfers the heat to a coolant via convection. Channels between the foam strips form coolant inlet and outlet plenums, which results in minimal coolant pressure drop through the cold plate. In one example, an exemplary cold plate may provide cooling to one or two printed circuit boards. In another example, a cold plate may be disposed within a heat exchanger housing to provide cooling to a fluid.
US08162026B1
A spring assembly is provided for an upward acting door that travels on a travel path while opening. The assembly includes a shaft, a torsion spring and a second spring. The torsion spring is connected to the shaft and provides a lifting force for the door throughout the travel path. The second spring is connected to the shaft and provides a lifting force for the door during only a portion of the travel path. In another aspect, a spring assembly is provided for an upward acting door that travels on a travel path while closing. The torsion spring is connected to the shaft and provides a weight supporting force for the door throughout the travel path. The second spring is connected to the shaft and provides a weight supporting force for the door during only a portion of the travel path.
US08162025B2
A shutter slat assembly for a storm shutter, the slat assembly including an elongated horizontally extending shutter slat having longitudinally extending formed edges configured to slidably, interlockingly connect with the next adjacent slat for limited pivotal movement between adjacent connected slats sufficient for rolled-up storage of the storm shutter. Each slat has a central port formed therethrough for viewing and light transmission through the port. An elongated transparent panel preferably having a cross section similar to that of the slat includes enlarged edge portions configured and spaced for dependent slidable engagement between and within inwardly facing grooves formed inwardly adjacent to the edges. The transparent panel covers the port while allowing a person to obtain a view and permit light transmission therethrough.
US08162021B2
An apparatus for connecting together two sections of tubing using a laser. A pair of fixtures hold the two tubing sections in opposed, end-to-end relation so that axially facing surfaces of the tube sections at the ends are free from exposure to a surrounding environment. A photodiode laser emits an electromagnetic beam at a separate sheet of material positioned between the axial surfaces at the ends of the tubing sections. The sheet absorbs energy of the electromagnetic beam. The pair of fixtures move the two tubing sections to bring the respective axially facing surfaces of the two tubing sections into engagement with the sheet and after the axially facing surfaces of the two sections are brought into engagement with the sheet, the electromagnetic beam is directed onto the sheet for welding the two sections of tubing together.
US08162016B1
The modular tire chain apparatus provides for ease of installation due to connecting modules that allow a user to assemble the apparatus on a tire and wheel with greater ease than having to struggle with a continuous tire chain. A further advantage of the modules is that any number of modules needed to surround a tire and wheel are easily attached together, thereby providing a substantially universal fit to a plethora of tire sizes. And, the tie strap with spring with hook aids in securing the modules to a tire. Further the ties are secured, one to the other and to the outer members. The ratchet lock further ensures snug fit of the apparatus. The inner cable, outer cable, inner members, outer members, and cross members are available in rubber coated finish, thereby avoiding potential vehicle and wheel and tire damage.
US08162006B2
A check valve for medical infusion lines and the like, includes a diaphragm made of elastic material set between a first tubular connector and a second tubular connector. The diaphragm includes an end wall of a cup-shaped element, having an outer peripheral edge of which is normally pressed in seal contact against an annular valve seat with a conical surface of the first tubular connector under an axial thrust exerted by a side wall of the cup-shaped element. A free edge of the side wall of the cup-shaped element is set resting against a transverse surface of the second tubular connector only in regions corresponding to angular portions of the latter separated by non-resting angular portions.
US08162002B2
A device for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas to a burner apparatus is provided including a main gas-delivery duct in which there is at least one servo-assisted diaphragm valve including a valve seat associated with a corresponding closure member with diaphragm control for opening the seat against the action of a resilient biasing member. The diaphragm valve includes a respective control solenoid valve with an electromagnetic operator for controlling the corresponding valve, the solenoid valve being arranged to bring about the opening/closure of a duct of a respective servo-assisted control circuit so as to operate the closure member of the valve indirectly, by the diaphragm control. The duct of the control circuit putting a portion of the main duct that is disposed upstream of the valve seat with respect to the direction of the gas-flow into flow communication with a respective control chamber of the diaphragm valve.
US08161998B2
Methods of, and apparatus for, storing and transporting a hazardous fluid, such as a combustible fuel, include methods and means, respectively, for: (a) treating the fluid to reduce its hazardous condition; (b) storing and/or transporting the treated fluid in such a manner that the risk of its hazardous condition remains reduced; (c) thereafter retreating the fluid to restore it to its original hazardous condition so that the fluid may be used in its restored condition. The hazardous fluid may be treated by adding a substance to, or removing a substance from, the fluid, or by changing the state of the fluid. For example, if the fluid is a fuel, it may be treated by cooling it to near or below its freezing temperature to reduce its combustibility, volatility, explosivity and/or ease of ignition.
US08161994B2
A product comprising a phase transfer valve, and wherein said phase transfer valve comprises an actuating valve housing having a housing interior; a liquid hydrogen inlet, a gaseous hydrogen inlet and a hydrogen outlet provided in said valve housing; an actuating valve slidably mounted in said housing interior; and wherein said actuating valve is moveable between a first position for sealing said gaseous hydrogen inlet from said hydrogen outlet and a second position for sealing said liquid hydrogen inlet from said hydrogen outlet.
US08161992B2
A tent includes a fabric enclosure including a plurality of walls and a floor defining a floor perimeter. Each wall is coupled to the floor at a joining seam positioned at a vertical distance with respect to a ground plane. A skirt is coupled to each wall at the joining seam and extends external to the floor perimeter.
US08161991B2
A covered hammock that acts as both a hammock and a ground tent is disclosed which has a plurality of curved support means for keeping the upper fabric off the user and also for supporting the device as a tent when used on the ground.
US08161983B1
A cuticle oil dispenser pen that simplifies the process of cuticle treatment by dispensing moisturizing cuticle oil while cutting and smoothing the cuticle with the associated porous ceramic cuticle stone.
US08161977B2
A process and system are disclosed for downloading sensor data, stored in a memory device of a surgical cutting and fastening instrument, to an external or remote computer device. The process may involve storing data from one or more sensors of a surgical cutting and fastening instrument in a memory device of a control unit of the surgical cutting and fastening instrument during a surgical procedure involving the surgical cutting and fastening instrument. Next, after the surgical procedure, a data link between the control unit and the remote computer device is established. Then, the sensor data can be downloaded from the control unit to the remote computer device.
US08161957B2
A valve body is in a cylindrical shape and communicates with the rear-side end of a barrel on the front side. The valve body forms an air chamber therein. A discharge valve is positioned in the valve body. The discharge valve is hit by a bolt from behind and thereby opens or shuts the communication between the barrel and the air chamber. When the bolt makes forward or backward slide movement, the valve body is fit into a first opening at the front part of the bolt. The cylindrical portion or the closed end of the bolt is provided with a second opening through which the air in the bolt flows in or out.
US08161948B2
The switched state of a pressure switch in a tank ventilation system of a motor vehicle is used for testing the function of the tank ventilation system, the pressure switch being in a low-pressure position if the pressure in the tank ventilation system is lower than a predefined pressure limit while being in a high-pressure position if that is not the case. A defective pressure switch can result in wrong assessments. Disclosed is a method for testing the function of the pressure switch, the method encompassing the following steps: a switched state of the pressure switch is detected; a measure is carried out that increases the pressure in the tank ventilation system above the pressure limit if the pressure switch is in the low-pressure position; a defect of the pressure switch is identified if the pressure switch remains in the low-pressure position after carrying out the measure.
US08161946B2
A method comprising receiving a fuel injection signal from a first driver circuit via a control line, feeding the fuel injection signal to a second fuel injector driver circuit, sending a control signal output from the second fuel injector driver circuit to a fuel injector, monitoring the fuel injector for degradation based on operation according to the control signal, and in response to degradation of the fuel injector, changing a state of the control line.
US08161943B2
A no-contact ignition control device includes a stop switch which maintains a second switching element at the OFF state so that an induced voltage of a trigger coil triggers a first switching element and shortcircuit a generation coil. A surge absorption element is connected in parallel to the stop switch. This configuration prevents intrusion of a surge current into the ignition control circuit caused by static electricity accumulated on the surface of casing covering electronic parts of the ignition control circuit and surely avoid dielectric breakdown of the electronic parts or malfunction of the circuit by the surge current.
US08161941B2
A control device for an internal combustion engine which, at cold starting, enables an ignition timing retard control for warm-up of a catalyst device and a speed feedback control by means of ignition timing for converging an engine speed to a target speed includes a function for comparing a final ignition timing with a retard lower limit value, and a function for changing the target speed based upon the result of the comparing. When the final ignition timing reaches the retard lower limit value, the target speed is increased by a predetermined speed and when a difference between the final ignition timing and the retard lower limit value exceeds a predetermined angle on an advance side, the target speed is decreased by a predetermined speed. In this way, at cold starting, the engine speed is early converged to the target speed while restricting rotational variations and early warm-up of a catalyst device can be certainly realized.
US08161932B2
A moped transmission includes a crankcase assembled in four sections, namely a first section, a second section, a third section and a fourth section. A crankshaft is formed as an eccentric shaft, and the crankshaft has a crankshaft gear mounted to the crankshaft. The crankshaft passes through the first section, and the crankshaft passes through and is rotably mounted to the first planar vertical mounting face. An engine connected to the first section and the second section. A main shaft has a main shaft gear in mesh with the crankshaft gear. The main shaft passes through and is rotably mounted outside the first planar vertical mounting face. The main shaft gear is mounted to the main shaft outside the first section such that the main shaft gear is encapsulated between the first section and the third section.
US08161931B2
In a method for operating an internal combustion engine that has a starter device for starting the internal combustion engine and a device for supplying fuel controlled by a control device, it is determined whether cold start conditions or hot start conditions exist during starting of the internal combustion engine. In at least one operating range, during starting of the internal combustion engine, an engine speed gradient is determined during a slowdown phase of a pull stroke of a starter device and the engine speed gradient is used for determining whether cold start conditions or hot start conditions exist. The fuel quantity to be supplied to the internal combustion engine is controlled based on the determined cold start conditions or hot start conditions.
US08161922B2
In a link type variable stroke engine in which a piston, a crankshaft and an eccentric shaft are linked by a linking mechanism, counterweights are provided on the crankshaft so that in a projection view on a plane orthogonal to a rotation axis of the crankshaft, centers of gravity of the counterweights are located on a straight line extending from the rotation axis of the crankshaft in an opposite direction to a direction of a total inertial exciting force when the total inertial exciting force becomes maximum, the total inertial exciting force being obtained by adding inertial exciting forces occurring respectively in movable components of the linking mechanism. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively suppress and lessen inertial exciting force.
US08161921B2
Embodiments described herein include a method for converting free-piston linear motion to rotary motion, comprising: providing a free-piston generator or motor/generator that has at least one piston having two compression heads; and, for each piston, a surface is provided on each compression head defining a helical channel, wherein the piston is rotated in a single direction due to the force imparted to the piston as compressed air in an air box is forced through the helical channel.
US08161916B2
Decubitus ulcer prevention garments for a dog are provided that include a fluid-filled bladder. The garments can include an inner layer that contacts and interacts with the body of the dog; an intermediate layer that interfaces with the inner layer and includes the fluid-filled bladder; and an outer layer joined to the inner layer and interfacing with the intermediate layer. The garments have a shape that is adapted to fit over and envelop the pelvic region of the dog such that the garments alleviate or reduce pressure on the soft tissues overlying the bony prominences of the pelvic region of a dog when the dog is lying in a recumbent position on a surface.
US08161915B2
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for preventing an animal and method of controlling the apparatus. The apparatus includes a sound sensor for sensing a bark of an animal and converting the bark into an electrical signal. An amplifier amplifies the electrical signal. A vibration sensor senses a vibration occurring on a neck of the animal. A microprocessor performs control such that, when signals are input from the sound sensor and the vibration sensor, voice, ultrasonic or low-frequency stimulation means is output, and has an auto-variable output function and a time band-based output function. A first control switch allows the user to optionally set a type and a stimulation intensity of the stimulation means. A second control switch allows the user to optionally set a time for which the stimulation means is operated. An output unit receives control signals for the stimulation means and outputs corresponding stimulations.
US08161908B2
A self-cleaning litter box (50) provides various advantages over the prior art. In particular, in one embodiment, the self-cleaning litter box (50) is configured to use a one piece litter cartridge (20) having a litter compartment (26) and a waste compartment 24. In another embodiment, the cartridge (20) is non-compartmentalized. In another embodiment, the system includes a rake assembly (56) configured with a drive assembly (58) that is protected from waste contamination. In accordance with the invention, the self-cleaning litter box (50) is configured to be used with all types of litter including crystal type litter.
US08161905B2
An automatic machine for versatile and alternative application of at least two types of sealant along the perimetric rim of an insulating glazing unit, whose spacer frame is constituted preferably but not exclusively by a continuous strip of expanded synthetic material. In particular, the machine allows simple and quick switching from one sealant to another, since the path of the plurality of sealants which starts from their feed, be they of the hot and/or cold extruded type, uses a plurality of ducts which reach the extrusion nozzles that are active proximate to the perimetric rim of the insulating glazing unit.
US08161903B2
A method of forming a water vapor barrier layer to a core of a golf ball is provided. The method includes placing the core of the golf ball into a vapor barrier composition, withdrawing the lifting device, and spinning and optionally oscillating the core within the composition for a time sufficient for the composition to form a layer on the core. The present invention also provides an apparatus that can be used to form a water vapor barrier layer.
US08161902B2
This invention relates to a multi-purpose holding device to handle, support and rotate one or more hollow cylindrical objects. The holding device consists of a rigid frame and support members for precise alignment and rotation of one or more objects within the frame structure. A method is also provided to reproducibly support, rotate and inspect the hollow cylindrical objects.
US08161900B2
A reminder device for an automotive vehicle has a hand pivotally attached to a base which is attached to the driver's side door of the vehicle. The reminder device is positioned in a manner so that the hand pivots outwardly upon opening of said door into a position such that a finger of the hand interferes with closing of the door.
US08161895B2
A method and device for free-hand embroidering on a sewing material with a sewing machine which has a memory for stitch data for a sewing pattern and a processor for reading the stitch data and for causing the sewing machine to execute stitches according to stitch data, which sewing machine has a needle and a sewing material feeder for moving the sewing material in a direction, which processor controls movements according to the direction relative to the position of the needle for the execution of stitches according to the sewing pattern, and which method includes during use of the sewing machine in a free-hand mode: storage in the memory of stitch data for at least one stitch type for free-hand embroidering, choice of a stitch type, maneuvering, via first control signals, a movement of the sewing material feeder in any desired the direction by using a hand-operated control, detection of the first control signals in the processor, calculation in the processor, from the first control signals, of the direction and/or speed of the movement, and control of the sewing material feeder by the processor, via second control signals, for the execution of stitches in the direction and/or at the speed in accordance with stitch data for the chosen stitch type.
US08161889B2
The present invention provides the structure of a bogie for a vehicle in a track type transportation system in which the vehicle runs along a predetermined track, which can be simplified, and lightweight and which can be run at a high speed with the maintainability therefor being enhanced, comprising a guide rail 14 laid on the track 12, guide wheels 51 capable of traveling being made into contact with the guide rail 14, a guide arm 48 attached thereto with the guide wheels 51, and a guide wheel support bracket 52 for supporting the guide arm 48 arranged underneath an axle 22 of the vehicle so that the guide arm 48 is pivotable around a pivotal vertical support shat 56, left and right of the vehicle, and the guide arm 48, the guide wheels 51 and the guide wheel support bracket 52 constitute a unit structure which is attached to the axle 22 or a bogie frame 26 of the vehicle.
US08161882B2
A propellant charge for use for ammunition, in which the propellant charge is separate from the projectile, has a propellant charge substance which can be initiated by a fuse. In order to solve the problem of providing a propellant charge for use in a two-part munition, which on the one hand can be produced easily and at low cost and on the other hand does not present any risk of damage when mechanically loaded before use, it is proposed that a propellant charge casing be provided which surrounds the propellant charge substance, with the propellant charge casing being in the form of a plastic part which is composed of a non-combustible, temperature-stable plastic material.
US08161881B2
A fuse and a fusing method comprising initiating detonation of a first booster comprising a circular shaped charge and thereby causing detonation of a second booster.
US08161873B2
The invention provides a servo press which can obtain a higher speed in a moving section of a slide, and a higher pressure in a pressurizing section near a bottom dead point without enlarging a capacity of a motor. The servo press is provided with a multi-toggle mechanism 10 moving up and down a slide 5 in which an upper die is to be fixed to a lower surface of the slide, and a toggle driving mechanism 20 provided on a crown 6 located to an upper side of the slide and driving the multi-toggle mechanism. The multi-toggle mechanism 20 is structured such as to include three or more toggles generating a force amplifying effect by a plurality of links 11, 12, 13, 14.
US08161865B2
An improved modular flavor dispenser for dispensing a plurality of different flavors is shown and described. One disclosed modular flavor dispenser includes a controller that is linked to a coordinator or interface with a controller associated with the food or beverage dispenser. For example, an automated coffee machine may include its own controller. The controller of the coffee machine communicates with the coordinator or interface of the modular flavor dispenser which, in turn, communicates with the motor control board or controller of the flavor dispenser. The flavor coordinator board may have a memory with a plurality of recipes stored therein or that information may be communicated from the controller of the coffee machine. The flavor coordinator board is linked to the motor control board which, in turn, is linked in parallel with the plurality of pumps used to dispense the variety of flavors. In the example of gourmet coffee, four or more pumps may be used: vanilla, hazelnut, cinnamon, caramel, chocolate as well as other flavors. Improved techniques for pumping chocolate syrup are also disclosed that involve the use of nutating piston-type pumps.
US08161862B1
A transparent armor laminate system is described that utilizes a glass-ceramic material as the strike-face material, one or a plurality of intermediate layers, and a backing material. This laminate system offers improved performance with reduced weight over conventional all-glass or all-glass-ceramic transparent armor systems. The glass-ceramic material consists of a glass phase and a crystalline phase, the crystalline phase being selected from a group consisting of beta-quartz, mullite and combinations thereof.
US08161861B2
The present invention is a battery assist devise to aid in the locking and unlocking of the bolt in a long firearm. The battery assist devise attaches to the both catch button of the firearm and thereafter acts as an extension thereof. The battery assist device comprises an interface head and attachment plate, which secure about the bolt catch button, and a curved lever that protrudes from the head and projects around the underside of the firearm, through the trigger guard area, until it projects slightly on the opposite side of the firearm. The lever then is capable of ambidextrous operation.
US08161859B2
A miter saw which prevents deterioration in perpendicularity of a cutting blade to the upper surface of a base part when slide of a pipe is regulated by pressing a pipe. In a miter saw, a pair of pipes support a cutting part, on one end side. On the other end side, the pipes are surrounded and supported slidably by a first slide support part of a support member of a turntable. A virtual plane including the axes of the pair of pipes is substantially parallel to the pivotal direction of a disc saw blade. A first screw is screwed in the first slide support part. An end part of the first screw contacts and presses a pipe. This end part is engaged with the pipe so as to restrict slide of the pipe relative to the first slide support part.
US08161857B2
A sizing center for and a method of sizing different styles of window coverings includes at least two sizing mechanisms disposed on a sizing center in which each sizing mechanism is adapted to size a different style of window covering. Each window covering includes a color marking. At least two measuring scales are disposed on the sizing center, each measuring scale being associated with a sizing mechanism and having a different color, and each color associated with a sizing center being associated with a color marking of a window covering.
US08161852B2
A rotary centering device for the transfer of a bar from the guiding channel of a feeder to a lathe, comprising a supporting element and provided with at least one circular seat in which a grip element for a bar is supported, the grip element being constituted by a bush which has a tubular portion and a plurality of sectors connected to the tubular portion, elastic elements being provided which act on the bush and are designed to control its axial movement between a first stop position, in which the sectors define a circular opening whose diameter is the same as that of the bar, and a second position, in which the sectors are moved until they form an opening to allow the passage of the bar pusher.
US08161846B2
Apparatus and methods for rotating or spinning a tubular. In some embodiments, the apparatus, referred to herein as a pipe spinner, includes a body, an arm pivotally coupled to the body, and an actuator coupled to the arm. The arm has a cam roller coupled thereto. The actuator is operable to pivot the arm relative to the body between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the cam roller engages the tubular. In the open position, the cam roller is disengaged from the tubular.
US08161844B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a sliding device that can surely reduce damage caused by mutual sliding behavior. To achieve the object, a sliding device in which a screw bolt having a male thread and a nut having a female thread hole in which a female thread is formed on an inner circumference are screwed together in a state capable of screw rotation and applied with repeating screw rotation so that the male thread and the female thread are subjected to a sliding load, wherein when Vickers hardness of a first metal material constituting the male thread of the screw bolt is H1, and Vickers hardness of a second metal material constituting the female thread on the inner circumference of the female thread hole in the nut is H2, |H1−H2|=300 HV0.1 to 350 HV0.1 is employed.
US08161843B2
A torque damper motor connected to the output side of a mechanical gear system. The damper motor, along with its associated control system, mitigates backlash problems, reduced torsional resonance, and provides improved output torque control. In the preferred embodiment, the damper motor is powered by a power electronics-based variable speed drive. The damper motor can be significantly less powerful than the overall rating of the gear system (typically 5-10% of the overall rating) while still providing the enhanced performance.
US08161840B2
A bicycle brake control device comprises a mounting bracket for mounting the device to a bicycle, a lever mounted to the mounting bracket for rotation around a pivot axis, and an adjustment unit. The adjustment unit comprises a first adjustment component and a second adjustment component, wherein the first adjustment component adjusts a selected position of the lever relative to the mounting bracket, and the second adjustment component adjusts a position of a brake operating element when the lever is in the selected position.
US08161832B2
The present technical solution solves a problem of keeping a given direction by use of an element stabilized in a given plane of inertial space, irrespective of disturbing torques, precessions of gyroscopes, and turns of a movable object in the given plane of inertial space when the current technical solution is used on the movable object. This solution is based on forcing precessions of two one-axis gyrostabilizers in opposite directions. The gyrostabilizers are connected with each other by a connection unit comprising a stabilized element. Since in the present solution low precision gyroscopes can be used, then the proposed solution can be implemented in a small-size version.
US08161831B2
An analyzer comprising: a first measurement unit; a second measurement unit; a transportation device for transporting samples to at least one measurement unit selected from the first measurement unit and the second measurement unit; and a transportation controller for determining whether or not a sample is transportable to the selected one measurement unit on the basis of at least one of a state notification of the first measurement unit and a state notification of the second measurement unit, wherein the transportation controller controls the transportation device to perform a sample transportation operation of transporting the sample to the selected one measurement unit when the sample is transportable to the selected one measurement unit, and to perform the other transportation operation than the sample transportation operation when the sample is not transportable to the selected one measurement unit, is disclosed. Sample transportation method and a computer program product are also disclosed.
US08161827B2
A torque measuring apparatus includes: a flexure element that is attached between an output shaft of an actuator or a speed reducer as a torque measurement object and a load object, and includes a main flexure part displaced mainly around the output shaft according to a torque applied from the load object, and an auxiliary flexure part to remove a displacement component other than the displacement of the main flexure part around the output shaft; and at least one pair of strain gauges attached to the main flexure part. The torque is measured based on electric signals outputted from the respective strain gauges.
US08161825B2
An orifice fitting having a drainage system. In some embodiments, the orifice fitting includes a housing having a chamber therein, a flow path extending through the chamber, an orifice plate moveable between a first position in the flow path and a second position outside of the flow path, and a rotatable shaft extending through the housing into the chamber. The shaft has a flowbore extending between a first fluid inlet in fluid communication with the chamber and a fluid outlet formed adjacent the end of the shaft.
US08161816B2
A method and apparatus for administering a hearing test that emits a test sound with changing volume with respect to elapsed time. The volume changes according to a pre-determined relationship between the volume and elapsed time. The hearing test utilizes the elapsed time until a subject signals the test sound is audible, and the pre-determined relationship, to determine the subject sound pressure level threshold for the test sound.
US08161815B2
In a transportable ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, a body to which a display unit on which an ultrasound image is displayed is integrated and an operation panel are connected by a connecting member. The body and the operation panel are supported by a body supporting stub and an operation panel supporting stub, which are separate supporting stubs, on the connecting member in a pivotable manner around center axes of the supporting stubs. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus is used in an open state in which the operation panel is pulled down to the front side. The operation panel is pivoted to close with the body, resulting in a storage state.
US08161814B2
A capacitive transducer for detecting the level of liquids and other materials has one or more antenna probes connected to an integrated chip normally associated with touch-screen displays. Each antenna probe operates independently and senses the level condition of wet or dry flowable materials such as water, oil, fuel, grain, and so on. The antenna probes may be formed as insulated conductive wires or conductive traces between layers of a stiff or flexible substrate, such as a PCB, with the substrate material serving as the insulating layers. Each antenna probe has a different length representing different depths of the material being measured to provide dynamic calibration of the level condition independent of the material type and ambient conditions.
US08161805B2
A method includes determining the point at which a tip of a probe based instrument contacts a sample and/or the area of that contact by dynamically oscillating a cantilever of the instrument in flexural and/or torsional modes. The method additionally includes using oscillation characteristics, such as amplitude, phase, and resonant frequency, to determine the status of the contact and to provide quantitative data. Static and quasi-static measurements, including contact stiffness and elastic modulus, can be obtained from the thus obtained data. Quasistatic measurements, such as creep and viscoelastic modulus, can be obtained by repeating the static measurements for a number of force profiles at different force application rates and correlating the resultant data using known theories.
US08161803B2
A microelectromechanical (MEMS) nanoindenter transducer including a body, a probe moveable relative to the body, an indenter tip coupled to an end of the moveable probe, the indenter tip moveable together with the probe, and a micromachined comb drive. The micromachined comb drive includes an electrostatic actuator capacitor comprising a plurality of comb capacitors configured to drive the probe, together with the indenter tip, along a displacement axis, including in an indentation direction, upon application of a bias voltage to the actuation capacitor. The micromachined comb drive further includes a plurality of sensing capacitors forming a differential capacitive displacement sensor, each sensing capacitor comprising a plurality of comb capacitors and each configured to provide capacitance levels which, together, are representative of a position of the probe, wherein each of the comb capacitors of the actuator capacitor and the sensing capacitors includes a fixed electrode comb coupled to the body and a moveable electrode comb coupled to the probe.
US08161802B2
A hand tensiometer for measuring the surface tension of liquids or for measuring of substance concentrations in a liquid wherein a gas volume stream entered from a gas source (10) through a buffer storage (11) into a measuring capillary (3) forms bubbles in the liquid at the end of the measuring capillary (3), and wherein means for steady measuring and for adjusting the gas volume stream are furnished.
US08161798B2
The disclosed is a density sensing device of a fuel cell system and a fuel cell system having the density sensing device. The density sensing device includes a density sensor that includes a collision sensor and a variable resistor coupled to the collision sensor. The collision sensor is dipped into a fuel solution, and the collisions of molecules of the fuel solution are detected in the collision sensor. The resistance of the variable resistor varies depending on an amount of the collision detected by the collision sensor. The resistance further is converted to a density by the use of a table that includes a relationship between resistance and density. The density sensing device can further include a sensor driver. The sensor driver can be a piezoelectric member that is attached to the collision sensor. The collision sensor vibrates together with the piezoelectric member when a driving signal is applied to the piezoelectric member, which improves the accuracy of the measurement of the density.
US08161797B1
A device for use with a detection means and a solvent source for sampling low volatility hazardous chemicals within a sample matrix is comprised of a sonicator having a probe for providing mechanical agitation to the sample matrix; means for transporting solvent gas from the solvent source to the sample matrix; means for transporting sample gas from the sample matrix to the detection means; and a heating element for heating the sample gas, solvent gas, and sample matrix. The device may include a thermocouple for providing a temperature reading. It also may include a plurality of interchangeable probe tips of different shapes.
US08161793B2
This application discloses a system for detecting mouth alcohol which is integrated with a breath-measuring instrument. In an embodiment, the breath-measuring instrument comprises a single fuel cell system, wherein the single fuel cell measures an individual's alveolar breath as well as detection of any mouth alcohol. In a further embodiment, the breath-measuring instrument comprises a first fuel cell and a second fuel cell, wherein the first fuel cell measures alveolar breath and the second fuel cell detects mouth alcohol.
US08161786B2
Incoming tubes are turned and fed into a pilger mill by use of a single gearbox using a rotating dual track drive system. The dual track system holds the incoming tube while tube reducing (metal tube forming) occurs by the pilger tooling. When the pilger tooling is free of the incoming tube product, the dual track drive moves the tube into the pilger tooling by feeding an incremental amount of tube product. The dual track drive also indexes the incoming tube at the correct time and at a pre-determined amount. Additionally, the gearbox sub-assembly bumps the tube at a pre-determined time while the tube is free from the tooling.
US08161783B2
A quickly rekeyable lock cylinder comprises a cylinder body and a plug assembly disposed within the cylinder body. The plug assembly comprises a plug body, a position block disposed at the plug body, a first rack group and a second rack group. The plug body has a longitudinal axis, a transverse axis vertical to the longitudinal axis and a rekeying tool opening. The first rack group has a plurality of first rack components. The second rack group may push the position block to move and has a plurality of second rack components in engagement with the first rack components and at least one tool-receiving portion pushed by the rekeying tool. The second rack components can move along transverse axis of the plug body to release engagement with the first rack components.
US08161782B2
A locking system for access to a door of a vending machine includes an opening handle lock for guiding of a movable lock mechanism between a locked position and an unlocked position. An identification unit for electronic identification operates an electronic blocking device that is adjustable between a) an inactive position where it does not actuate the opening handle lock and where the safety lock not may be opened from the outside, and b) an active position where it actuates the opening handle lock such that it may be opened from the outside. The identification unit also controls the electronic blocking device in such a way that a positive identification moves the electronic blocking device to the active position. A safety lock is arranged that may be actuated independently of the identification unit, and by which the movable lock mechanism might be guided between the locked position and the unlocked positions.
US08161771B2
Method and apparatus of separating a nitrogen from a compressed and purified feed stream in a cryogenic rectification plant that employs a distillation column to produce a nitrogen-rich vapor as a column overhead and an oxygen-rich liquid column bottoms. Reflux is generated for the column by condensing part of the nitrogen-rich vapor within a down-flow heat exchanger. A stream of the oxygen-rich liquid column bottoms is introduced into an ejector which draws a stream of an oxygen-rich liquid phase produced from the outlet of a down-flow heat exchanger. The combined oxygen-rich liquid exiting the ejector is fed to the down-flow heat exchanger to condense the nitrogen-rich vapor. In such manner, part of the oxygen-rich liquid phase is recirculated to prevent dry-out of the down-flow heat exchanger outlet and to maintain effective condensation of the nitrogen-rich vapor.
US08161770B2
Disclosed is a vehicle air conditioning system including not less than two evaporators 3, 4, in which internal heat exchangers 5, 6 are provided to the respective evaporator 3, 4, a first evaporator 3 is placed in a front part of a compartment 8A whereas a second evaporator 4 is placed in a rear part of the compartment 8B; and the second evaporator 4 is connected to the internal heat exchanger 6 extended from the engine room 7 to the compartment 8. The internal heat exchanger 6 has a triple tube structure in which a heat insulator 15 is provided between a high-pressure medium passage 13 and a low-pressure medium passage 14.
US08161767B2
The ice making apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that a plurality of ice trays are arranged in the back-and-forth and up-and-down directions, and that the ice tray arranged in the front row and the ice tray arranged in the rear row are rotated to face each other.
US08161765B2
The present invention relates to a heat exchanger comprising at least one first loop adapted to trap energy from a source. The first loop contains a first refrigerant adapted to collect energy from a source. The invention also comprises at least one second loop with a second refrigerant adapted to interact with the first refrigerant and to transfer to a user a maximum quantity of the energy trapped by the first loop in the most efficient manner. The transfer of the trapped energy takes place in a transfer unit placed in the second loop. The transfer unit comprises an outer cylinder with an inlet and an outlet adapted to circulate the first refrigerant. An inner coil placed within the outer cylinder to contain the second refrigerant. The inner coil is provided with an inlet and outlet adapted to facilitate circulation of the second refrigerant. The first and the second refrigerants are moving within the transfer unit in a counter-flow direction to optimize the heat exchange between the first and second refrigerant. The first loop is placed into an earth or waste medium. The first refrigerant is R-410a and the second refrigerant is R-134a.
US08161764B2
A built-in refrigerator comprising a carcass, in the lower rear area of which a machine compartment is formed. Said machine compartment is closed at least in part by means of a rear wall. The rear wall delimits a first air passage of the machine compartment at the level of a support area of the carcass.
US08161760B2
A distributed refrigeration appliance system for use in a residential kitchen and other locations in a dwelling and includes multiple separate refrigeration appliance modules, a central cooling system and a cooling circuit. The system can also include one or more satellite stations having a heat exchanger and arranged for supplying chilled air to one or more refrigeration appliance modules. One or more refrigeration appliance modules can include a thermal cascade cooling device to cool the module to lower temperatures than the cooling circuit can attain. One or more refrigeration appliance modules can be refrigeration/storage modules that can provide refrigerated, unconditioned or heated storage space. The central cooling system can be a vapor compression system having a refrigerant circuit connecting the modules. Alternately, the central cooling system can cool a secondary cooling medium circuit. The refrigeration system can also have more than one refrigeration machine providing cooling to the secondary refrigeration loop.
US08161759B2
A method of and apparatus for transferring heat energy between a heat exchanging subsystem installed above the surface of the Earth, and material beneath the surface of the Earth, by installing one or more coaxial-flow heat exchanging structures in the material beneath the surface of the Earth. Each coaxial-flow heat exchanging structure has inner and out flow channels along which aqueous-based heat transfer fluid is circulated. Turbulence is generated in the aqueous-based heat transfer fluid flowing along the outer flow channel, to increase the rate of heat energy transfer between the aqueous-based heat transfer fluid and material beneath the surface of the Earth along the length of the outer flow channel. This in turn increases the rate of heat energy transfer between the heat exchanging subsystem installed above the surface of the Earth and material beneath the surface of the Earth.
US08161749B2
Cooled exhaust hood plates are provided in areas of high velocity steam flow within an exhaust steam flow of a steam turbine. Coolant is directed within double walled exhaust hood plates to cool plate surfaces adjacent to the high velocity exhaust steam flow. The cooled exhaust hood plates cool and condense the exhaust steam in proximity. Condensation will occur in low velocity area near the exhaust hood plate to reduce the boundary layer and improve the flow through the hood, improving overall turbine performance.
US08161744B2
An internal combustion engine includes a block defining a plurality of combustion cylinders, an intake manifold fluidly coupled with at least one combustion cylinder, and an exhaust manifold fluidly coupled with at least one combustion cylinder. An EGR valve may be fluidly coupled between the exhaust manifold and the intake manifold. A turbocharger includes a turbine fluidly coupled with the exhaust manifold, and a compressor fluidly coupled with the intake manifold. A microphone is positioned at the compressor inlet or the compressor outlet provides an output signal. An ECU is coupled with the microphone, and controls operation of an actuatable element of a VGT, an EGR valve, and/or an injected fuel quantity, to prevent surge of the compressor, dependent upon the output signal from the microphone.
US08161739B2
A force transmission device, in particular or power transmission between a drive engine and an output, comprising a damper assembly with at least two dampers, which can be connected in series, and a rotational speed adaptive absorber, wherein the rotational speed adaptive tuned mass damper is disposed between the dampers at least in one force flow direction through the force transmission device.
US08161733B2
Methods and systems are provided for operating an engine having a hydrocarbon retaining system and an emission control device coupled to an engine exhaust, the engine exhaust comprising a venturi. One example method comprises, during a storing condition, routing exhaust gas through the venturi without generating a venturi action, and then to the hydrocarbon retaining system, while bypassing the emission control device, to store hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon retaining system, and during a purging condition, routing exhaust gas through the venturi while generating venturi action, then to the emission control device, and then to the hydrocarbon retaining system, to purge stored hydrocarbons, wherein a flow of purged hydrocarbons is drawn back to the venturi via venturi action.
US08161731B2
An exhaust treatment control system includes a controller configured to determine a value representative of a NO2 concentration associated with an exhaust gas upstream of a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst, and determine a value representative of a NO concentration associated with the exhaust gas upstream of the SCR catalyst. The controller can also be configured to transmit a signal to at least partially control an injection of a hydrocarbon into the exhaust gas, wherein the hydrocarbon injection can occur upstream of an oxidation catalyst to at least partially decrease the NO2 concentration of the exhaust gas downstream of the oxidation catalyst, and wherein the oxidation catalyst can be located upstream of the SCR catalyst.
US08161712B2
A flexible wrap of rotatably interlocking fluted strips is provided. The fluted strips may have similarly shaped cross-sectional areas and be rotatably interconnected with one another such that the flexible wrap may be wrapped around an object. One end of a fluted strip may have a socket means for rotatably interlocking with an adjacent fluted strip. The socket means may have a circular inner diameter and two curved arms with an opening between their ends. The opposite end of the fluted strip may have a ball means for rotatably interlocking with another adjacent fluted strip. The ball means may have a circular outer diameter sized to slide into the circular inner diameter of the socket means of an adjacent fluted strip, and an arm sized to slide between the opening of the curved arms, during assembly. One fluted strip may be designed to join in the middle to facilitate wrapping.
US08161708B2
Finishing set for a floor covering, whereby this finishing set at least consists of, on the one hand, a finishing profile and, on the other hand, a holder with at least an attachment portion for attaching said finishing profile at the holder, characterized in that the holder comprises an underlay portion, which at choice can or cannot be provided underneath the remaining portion of the holder, as well as a stop-forming positioning portion.
US08161700B2
A tiled structure comprises a layer of adhesive mortar, a bracket having a substantially flat base mounting portion with a plurality of perforations embedded in an adhesive mortar with the mortar flowed through the perforations and substantially covering opposite sides of the base mounting portion, and a tile veneer bonded to the adhesive mortar over at least one side of the base mounting portion.
US08161698B2
An innovation is disclosed which relates to a wind turbine foundation. A circular foundation using fiber reinforced concrete has optional circular reinforcement rods. The foundation includes a vertical stanchion that rests in the bottom of an excavated hole and supports anchor bolts and reinforcement bars in a predetermined configuration while concrete is poured into the hole. All the necessary foundation materials can be combined in a simple and compact kit which can be shipped to a customer.
US08161691B2
A precast composite flooring system utilizes girders and floor panels having steel lower structures placed in tension and concrete upper structures places in compression. Openings through a stem wall allow ducts, pipes, and conduits to be run therethrough. The system provides reduced weight over conventional precast or pour in place systems, allowing further reduction in the weight and size of other building components. The floor deck does not use tensioning strands, allowing openings to be formed at nearly any stage of construction and with reduced concern over cutting steel reinforcement. The floor panels and girders bolt together and bolt to a steel column frame, allowing for more efficient assembly.
US08161681B2
A gate arm for a swing gate incorporates a release mechanism that releases the gate arm and therefore allows the gate to swing freely about its hinges when inwardly-directed pressure applied to the gate exceeds a threshold level. The gate arm also includes a spring-loaded pivot joint that applies pressure to the gate when the gate is operating normally and is in the closed position, and further works cooperatively with the release mechanism to prevent damage to the operator and gate arm when the gate is forced open.
US08161679B2
An open ocean floating algae farm built around a ship. The ship provides propulsion power for navigation, storage capacity for materials and algae products, machinery for harvesting and processing the algae, housing for crew, and facilities for maintenance of the floating farm. The invention is also comprised of transparent tubes that circulate a broth of seawater saturated with CO2, nutrients, and algae. The circulation path flows from the ship through the tubes and back to the ship where the algae is filtered out to be processed. The fields of transparent tubes circulating the algae broth are supported by a square matrix of pressurized tubes filled with seawater. This matrix is neutrally buoyant and submerged just below the ocean surface. The internal pressure in the tubes causes the matrix to be stiff in the horizontal plane, but flexible in the vertical dimension so as to conform to long ocean waves.
US08161674B2
An electronic device mounting system can be used to attach electronic devices, such as rangefinders and video cameras, to weapons. The mounting system includes a support portion for resiliently supporting the electronic device and a mounting portion for attaching the support portion and attached electronic device to a weapon. The support portion is universal in that it can be used with a number of interchangeable mounting portions. Each mounting portion is adapted for securing the support portion to a particular type of weapon or weapon accessory.
US08161671B2
A greeting card is provided. The greeting card comprises a card having an image viewing window and a sound module attached to the card. The sound module comprises a microphone, a first switch for activating a recording function of the sound module, and a second switch for activating a playback function of the sound module.
US08161660B2
A measuring device generally comprises a base unit housing an extensible cable; the cable including a free end for placement by a user at a point being measured. The base unit, placed in line of sight of the point, includes: a base; a first carriage rotationally attached to the base about a turn axis; and a second carriage rotationally attached to the first carriage about a pitch axis. Servoed motors rotate the carriages to align them with cable path to the point. The turn angle, the pitch angle and the cable length are measured to determine the point's location. A plurality of points determines a surface. The user uses a programmed PDA with a radio to communicate with the base unit. An alternative embodiment only has a first carriage.
US08161654B2
A utility blade for use with conventional retractable and fixed blade utility knives comprising a blade body having a generally trapezoidal configuration defined by a cutting edge, an opposite back edge, a pair of opposing side edges and a pair of cutting points defined by the points of intersection between the side edges and the cutting edge. The blade further defines a pair of score lines, each proximate to one of the side edges. The score lines enable the user to remove a dulled or damaged cutting point, which in turn provides the user with two additional cutting points defined by the points of intersection between the score lines and the cutting edge. Further, the blade is configured with one or more notches strategically located on the back edge of the blade, such that each cutting point can extend from the utility knife at approximately the same distance.
US08161652B2
A hand-held power tool, in particular a hand-held power tool for sawing, includes a drive unit (12a), which includes a drive shaft (14a; 14b), and a dust-extraction device (16a; 16b) with a suction unit (20a; 20b) and a drive shaft (22a; 22b). A transmission unit (24a; 24b) is installed upstream of the drive shaft (22a; 22b) of the suction unit (20a; 20b).
US08161650B2
An apparatus for assembling a tire and a wheel is disclosed. The apparatus includes a single-cell workstation including a device that retains a wheel, and a plurality of sub-stations. The device moves the wheel to each of the plurality of sub-stations, without releasing the wheel, to assemble a tire-wheel assembly. A method is also disclosed.
US08161631B1
A motor control bucket replacement tool, such as for circuit breakers, that is portable, and rugged for providing electrically operated controlled insertion and removal of electrical equipment by an operator from a remote location using an easily detachable magnetic coupling device for engagement with the electrical equipment and using a linear actuator.
US08161628B2
An assembling device for attaching a light guide plate and a reflecting member together is provided. The assembling device includes a first receiving member and a second receiving member. The first receiving member defines a first recess therein for accommodating the light guide plate. The second receiving member defines a second recess therein for accommodating the reflecting member. The assembling device has an open position and a closed position. The light guide plate is capable of being loaded in the first recess and the reflecting member is capable of being loaded in the second recess when the assembling device is in the open position. The first receiving member and the second receiving member are aligned with and parallel to each other when the assembling device is in the closed position.
US08161623B2
In a method of manufacturing an articulated shaft structure for the transfer of torque from a transmission to a differential drive, including a connecting flange having a tube section, a shaft plate disposed between the connecting flange and a transmission output flange and forming a torsion element for accommodating some articulation of the connecting flange relative to the output flange, and a centering part extending from the connecting flange for aligning the articulated shaft relative to a transmission shaft, the connecting flange is formed integrally with the tube section by deep-drawing in follow-on tool the tube section and, in the same manufacturing step, punching openings into the flange, and deep-drawing the centering part and pressing it into the tube section.
US08161618B2
A method is provided for forming a barbed medical device which includes the steps of providing a blank workpiece and forming at least one barb on the blank workpiece by applying vibrational energy to a tool and bringing the tool and the blank workpiece into contact with each other at an angle such that the tool cuts into the surface of the blank workpiece. A barbed medical device formed by this method is also provided.
US08161613B2
The invention is based on a method for producing a screw connection by means of a cutout screwdriver (10) that terminates a screw driving operation when a predetermined torque is achieved.According to the invention, data relating to an operation are detected in the cutout screwdriver (10) and transmitted to an external monitoring unit (20). The invention also discloses a device for executing the method as well as a cutout screwdriver.
US08161597B2
A shop vacuum cleaner has a series of dust separation stages, with the large majority of the dust being preseparated in a cyclonic separator and deposited into a first drum or barrel. The remaining dust is carried in the air stream is filtered out in a pre-filter in a second vacuum cleaner drum. A final filter cartridge is fitted onto the intake of the vacuum head. The vacuum cleaner machine exhausts clean, filtered air into the ambient.
US08161595B1
This patent discloses and electrical appliance device to scrub clean a floor using a cleaning solution and to collect resulting dirty water from the floor. The electrical appliance device may include an upright portion attached to a handle assembly and a horizontal portion connected at a bottom of the upright portion, where the upright portion may be configured to pivot relative to the horizontal portion. A dirty water reservoir may be connected to the upright portion. The horizontal portion may include brushes, a brush motor, a suction pipe, a suction bar, and a solution reservoir having a brush motor cavity formed within a lower side of the solution reservoir. The brush motor may reside within and be surrounded by the brush motor cavity.
US08161591B2
An oral care implement with an oral care region having cleaning elements for engaging oral tissue and a body for gripping the implement including a handle with a front and a removable faceplate is described. The removable faceplate may be transparent or translucent and may also include design features. The faceplate may provide protection to a user inscription surface on one of the surfaces of the handle which is may be configured to receive user indicia that may later be removed and further indicia provided. A method for marketing the oral care implement and various features of the oral care implement including one or more thematic faceplates is also contemplated and described.
US08161583B1
A bed turning composite dual pad system to facilitate the care of a patient used in changing their position on a bed while providing clear access to their backside as required. A base pad is positioned under a patient with a centrally aligned longitudinally offset contoured opening within allowing the caregiver to easily turn and roll a patient with the base pad for ease of care access position. An adaptable absorbent cover pad is removably affixed over the contoured opening on the underside of the base pad for liquid containment management if needed.
US08161572B1
A thermal layer insulated cape that is equipped with a flap body can be fabricated by a cape body of substantially circular shape that has a center aperture for fitting around a user's neck, a slot opening from the aperture to one edge of the cape body for wrapping around a user's body; a top surface of the cape body formed of a water impermeable material, and a first fastener attached to the top surface juxtaposed to a first side of the slot opening; a bottom surface of the cape body formed of a thermal insulating material, and a second fastener matingly engageable with the first fastener attached to the bottom surface juxtaposed to a second side of the slot opening for engaging the first fastener; and a flap body extending outwardly away from the aperture for catching debris during a hair-care procedure.
US08161569B2
A core assembly for an athletic protective pad is provided. The core assembly comprises a backing member and a deflection shield overlaid on the backing member. The backing member includes a plurality of backing pieces that are assembled together. The deflection shield is located on the backing member using cooperating interlocking members provided on the deflection shield and at least one of the backing pieces. The core assembly may be inserted within an outer envelope to form a protective hockey goaltender leg pad.
US08166561B2
A security device including a first external interface; a second external interface; and a security controller connected to said first external interface and said second external interface, said security controller being adapted to validate an access right based on a codeword received via said first interface to perform an encrypted memory access via said second external interface to an external memory coupleable to said second external interface, and to prevent that encrypted memory access via said first external interface or prevent any output of data via said first external interface depending on data received via said second external interface in case of a negative validation.
US08166560B2
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for controlling computer access. Briefly described in architecture, some embodiments of such a system provide a control unit for controlling user access to a computer in accordance with a user profile. An administrator of the computer is enabled to remotely access and modify the user profile. The user profile is stored at least in a remote database that is accessible via a server. Other systems and methods are also provided.
US08166555B2
When a secure counter malfunction detection unit 212 deters a malfunction in a secure counter 211, a content playability judgment unit 206 performs a content playability judgment based on information managed by a malfunctioning-state playback processing management unit 214. The malfunctioning-state playback processing management unit 214 stores a malfunctioning-state playback condition composed of information such as a playback count and a playback time. The content playability judgment unit 206 judges that content is playable when the malfunctioning-state playback condition is met, and a content playback unit 210 splays the content.
US08166546B2
A computer program for a controlling apparatus intended to control an image forming apparatus, executes a procedure of confirming each program running on the controlling apparatus. The computer program executes procedure of judging a program, which is not included in a preset list of programs that can be run to control the image forming apparatus among programs whose running states have been confirmed, as an illegal program resulting from computer virus infection. The illegal program is automatically deleted or isolated.
US08166542B2
An information processing apparatus includes a hard disk drive (HDD) that stores therein user information, an operating unit that performs an operation of setting of user authentication, a user information registering unit that registers user information for a user who are permitted to use a function, and a system control unit that controls registration of the user information to the user information registering unit. An authentication server reads out the user information from the HDD and authenticates use permission of functions in the information processing apparatus. The system control unit controls registerability of the user information to the user information registering unit for each function with use permission determined by the information processing apparatus.
US08166540B2
A system, apparatus, and methods are disclosed for aligning a stored scancode sequence that corresponds to a hardware password, with a password input device type such as a current keyboard type. Aligning the stored scancode sequence with the password input device type enables successful validation of a hardware password despite a change in a password input device type or inadvertent corruption of a non-volatile memory used for storing the scancode sequence such as non-volatile memory that stores BIOS information for a computing device.
US08166532B2
A functional architecture is provided for decentralizing the authorization function of an access control system that incorporates user carried access devices, such as smart cards, and door controllers that interact so as to make access decisions. Access to individual rooms is guarded by parameters partially carried by the user carried access devices and partially included in the door controllers.
US08166529B2
The invention relates to a method and device for authenticating a user of an electronic device in usage contexts being able to use in said electronic device by using a usage context identifier, wherein in the method, a usage context being used in the device is selected by the user. The method comprising maintaining a centralized register of the usage contexts available for the user in the device and the user profiles associated to said usage contexts, the device identifying an usage context selected by the user, selecting at least one user profile in response to the identified service, and authenticating the user in the selected usage context on the basis of the selected user profile.
US08166526B2
A method of a wireless communication device for accessing secure resources of a resource provider or the device itself. A password associated with the wireless communication device is identified. A password identifier is assigned to the password and a non-password identifier is assigned to a non-password different from the password. The password identifier has a non-sequential association with the non-password identifier. The password identifier, the password, the non-password identifier, and the non-password are provided at a user interface of the wireless communication device. Access to a secure resource is granted in response to determining that the password identifier has been detected at the user interface.
US08166525B2
Apparatus are provided, including a document management system and a private certificate authority. The private certificate authority is private to the document management system, and includes a certificate authority public key, a certificate authority private key, a key pair generator, and a digital certificate issuer. The key pair generator generates key pairs for respective authorized users of the document management system. The digital certificate issuer issues digital certificates regarding the respective authorized users of the document management system. The private certificate authority includes software instantiated by or with the document management system.
US08166521B2
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a server having a controller to transmit a tracking request to a session information retriever for a targeted user of a network with the session information retriever storing session information for users of the network and with the tracking request having identification information associated with the targeted user, transmit a query to the session information retriever for relevant session information associated with the targeted user with the relevant session information being selected by the session information retriever from the session information based at least in part on the identification information associated with the targeted user and with the relevant session information being stored in a single file associated with the targeted user, and receive at least a portion of the relevant session information transmitted from the session information retriever. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08166508B2
A content rental system includes one data store for storing rental content. The content rental system also includes a content server for transferring content to one viewing device based upon a received request. The content server is further configured to authorize the transfer of the content from the viewing device to another viewing device.
US08166503B1
A system and method for providing multiple video presentations per audio program. In one aspect, the method comprises (a) assigning a first packet identifier (PID) to a first elementary stream, wherein the first elementary stream comprises video packets corresponding to a high-definition video presentation; (b) assigning a second PID to a second elementary stream, wherein the second elementary stream comprises video packets corresponding to a standard-definition video presentation and the second PID is different than the first PID; (c) assigning a third PID to a third elementary stream, wherein the third elementary stream comprises audio packets corresponding to a selected audio recording, wherein the third PID is different than the second PID; and (d) (1) creating a program map table that includes the first PID, the second PID and the third PID or (2) creating (i) a first program map table that includes the first PID and the third PID and (ii) a second program map table that includes the second PID and the third PID. In this way, the method provides a high-definition and a standard-definition video presentation per a single audio program.
US08166499B2
A method for transmitting content (12) via a digital video interface (15) using a high-bandwidth digital content protection system (50). The content (12) has a first format in a first state, a second format in a second state, and vertical blanking intervals associated therewith. In the first state, the method includes: authenticating (302) that the receiver (25) is licensed to receive the content, signaling (304) that the content will be encrypted, and transmitting (306) the encrypted content in the first format. A transition of the content from the first format to the second format is detected (308), and the encrypted content continues (310) to be transmitted in the first format. In the second state, the method includes: signaling (312) that the content will be unencrypted, adjusting (314) the transmitter to transmit in the second format, waiting (316) for the receiver to identify a vertical blanking interval, signaling (318) that the content will be re-encrypted, and transmitting (320) the re-encrypted content in the second format.
US08166494B2
An electronic device with a built-in optical disc drive includes a casing, an optical disc drive, a first gear rack, a driving mechanism, and a transmitting mechanism. The casing comprises an upper plate and a base, and the upper plate defines an opening. The optical disc drive comprises a tray and a tray cover, and the tray is disposed in the base and faced the opening, the tray cover covering the tray. The first gear rack is connected with the tray cover. The driving mechanism is movably disposed on the casing. The transmitting mechanism includes a first end and a second end, and the gear ratio of the second end to the first end is greater than 1. The first end is meshed with the driving mechanism and the second end is meshed with the first gear rack.
US08166490B2
An information handling system which includes plural processing components operable to process information wherein at least one processing component has plural region-specific modes of operation, a driver package associated with the at least one processing component wherein the driver package has plural region-specific drivers, and an encrypted key stored on a processing component wherein the encrypted key designates one of the plural region-specific drivers to manage the processing component.
US08166489B2
An image processing apparatus that executes, on the basis of a command transmitted from a driver apparatus, predetermined processing corresponding to the command includes a setting-information acquiring unit that acquires setting information indicating setting contents of processing instructed by the driver apparatus, a setting-information displaying unit that displays the setting information acquired by the setting-information acquiring unit, an operation accepting unit that accepts operation for the setting-information displayed by the setting-information displaying unit, and a setting executing unit that executes processing with the setting contents that reflect the operation accepted by the operation accepting unit.
US08166487B2
As each application is loaded for use by an operating system, a message handling application within the operating system associates the applications with relativity metrics for later use in handling interprocess messages. A cryptographic identifier associated with each application is verified and, based on the verifying, each application is associated with a relativity metric. The message handling application receives a message from an origin process. The message handling application then determines a destination process for the message, a relativity metric for the origin process, and a relativity metric for the destination process. Based on an analysis of the relativity metrics of the origin process and the destination process, the message handling application determines whether to forward the message to the destination process.
US08166479B2
There is provided an adaptive semi-synchronous parallel processing system and method, which may be adapted to various data analysis applications such as flow cytometry systems. By identifying the relationship and memory dependencies between tasks that are necessary to complete an analysis, it is possible to significantly reduce the analysis processing time by selectively executing tasks after careful assignment of tasks to one or more processor queues, where the queue assignment is based on an optimal execution strategy. Further strategies are disclosed to address optimal processing once a task undergoes computation by a computational element in a multiprocessor system. Also disclosed is a technique to perform fluorescence compensation to correct spectral overlap between different detectors in a flow cytometry system due to emission characteristics of various fluorescent dyes.
US08166478B2
A storage array controller may include a virtual machine manager for managing a storage array application virtual machine and a dedicated multiplexer virtual machine. The storage array application virtual machine and the dedicated multiplexer virtual machine may be communicatively coupled via a plurality of virtual machine manager coupling drivers. The storage array controller may also include a dedicated inter controller link for communicatively coupling the storage array controller with a second storage array controller. The dedicated multiplexer virtual machine may be configured for coupling with a second dedicated multiplexer virtual machine included with the second storage array controller via a device driver communicating across the dedicated inter controller link.
US08166476B2
Various embodiments of a system and method for accessing a virtual representation of a first physical computer system are disclosed. A first backup image of the first physical computer system may be stored on a server computer system, where the first backup image specifies a first state of the first physical computer system. In response to a request to access a virtual representation of the first physical computer system, a virtual computer may be instantiated from the first backup image on the server computer system. A state of the virtual computer may be modified in response to user input to the virtual computer. A second backup image of the virtual computer may be created, where the second backup image specifies the modified state of the virtual computer. The second backup image may be transferring and applied to the first physical computer system.
US08166460B2
Software intended to operate in a clustered environment can be tested for appropriate failover behavior through the use of an automated tool which allows failover to be simulated without requiring that the application be deployed in a cluster environment and observing the effects of actual failover. Such an automated tool can measure the characteristics of one or more session objects created by the application and provide appropriate messages for a developer when those characteristics indicate improper coding for failover.
US08166457B2
A method of implementing a complete SAP system landscape on IBM System i is provided. This method involves preselecting at least one value-added reseller (VAR) for participation in implementing the complete SAP system landscape on IBM System i. The VAR then selects values for flexible parameters according to needs of a customer. The flexible parameters include languages for i5/OS and SAP, an amount of SAP ERC Central Component (ECC) systems ranging from one to three, an inclusion of a SAP Solution Manager, a client landscape, a configuration of SAP systems, and a level of software stack. The level of software stack includes a layer of the SAP systems, a layer implementing country-specific configuration, a layer implementing industry-specific configuration, and a layer of VAR added value. Media is created and implemented with the specified content at a factory using standard SAP procedures. A full backup of the SAP systems is then created using standard i5/OS operating system imaging. The media is restored by the VAR using the standard i5/OS operating system imaging at multiple customer sites. The VAR only need be an i5/OS system administrator having no knowledge about SAP on IBM System i to perform the operation. The VAR communicates feedback to the factory for improving the specified content.
US08166455B2
Methods, systems, and apparatuses for producing computer desktop applications, such as widgets, are described. A desktop application factory includes an interface and a desktop application generator. The interface enables an application developer to select a desktop application template, and to provide configuration information for the selected desktop application template. The desktop application generator is configured to generate a desktop application by configuring the selected desktop application template according to the provided configuration information.
US08166452B2
The present invention allows a user to graphically define a hierarchy of user-defined, executable classes of graphical objects that can be implemented in a graphical model. The present invention supports the features of inheritance, abstraction and polymorphism. Further, descendant classes of graphical objects can graphically extend the behavior and/or structure of ancestor classes of graphical objects.
US08166450B2
Methods and apparatus optimized for compiling instructions in a data processor are disclosed. In one aspect, a method of address calculation is disclosed, comprising operating a compiler to generate at least one instruction; canonicalizing the address calculation in a plurality of different approaches: in one exemplary embodiment, the first approach comprises canonicalizing the “regular” 32-bit instruction addressing modes, and the second for the “compressed” 16-bit instruction addressing modes. In another aspect, a plurality of functions (up to and including all available functions) are called indirectly to allow addresses to be placed in a constant pool. Improved methods for instruction selection, register allocation and spilling, and instruction compression are provided. An improved SoC integrated circuit device having an optimized 32-bit/16-bit processor core implementing at least one of the foregoing improvements is also disclosed.
US08166441B2
A method of designing a logic circuit based on one of the functions of the form fn=x1 (x2 & (x3 (x4 & . . . xn . . . ))) and f′n=x1 & (x2 (x3 & (x4 . . . xn . . . ))), by (a) selecting n as the number of variables of the logic circuit, (b) testing n against a threshold, (c) for values of n less than the threshold, using a first algorithm to design the logic circuit, (d) for values of n greater than the threshold, using a second algorithm to design the logic circuit.
US08166438B2
A system includes an input device, an output device, a printed circuit board, and a semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor die. The semiconductor die includes a clock distribution network that distributes a primary clock signal. The clock distribution network includes a low RC local clock distribution structure. The low RC local clock distribution structure includes a conductor, a first clock signal incident on the conductor, a local gain buffer pair that receives the first clock signal and outputs a second clock signal corresponding to the first clock signal, and a shorting bar that shorts the second clock signal to a plurality of conductors.
US08166435B2
Some embodiments provide a method that identifies a first physical design solution for positioning several configurable operations on several reconfigurable circuits of an integrated circuit (IC). The method identifies a second physical design solution for positioning the configurable operations on the configurable circuits. One of the identified physical design solutions has one reconfigurable circuit perform a particular configurable operation in at least two reconfiguration cycles while the other identified solution does not have one reconfigurable circuit perform the particular configurable operation in two reconfiguration cycles. The method costs the first and second physical design solutions. The method selects one of the two physical design solutions based on the costs.
US08166430B2
A method is specified for determining the quality of a quantity of properties describing a machine, including a step for determining the existence of at least one sub-quantity of interrelated properties (P0, P1, . . . Pn) of the form Pi=(forall t. Ai(t)=>Zi(t)), wherein Ai(t) present an initial state and Zi(t) a target state for a corresponding property and at least one initial state Ai is dependant on internal signals and including a step for checking whether at least one aspect of the input/output behavior of the machine described by the properties, which cannot be derived from an individual property Pi, is described to such an accurate extent that one property Q exists, which represents this aspect without being dependant on the internal signals. The procedure is capable of providing a measurement and can particularly be used in the verification and specification of circuits.
US08166427B1
Circuits, methods, software, and apparatus that track the removal of, reasons for, and consequence of the removal of registers or other circuitry during the synthesis of electronic circuits. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention tracks the removal of registers and determines why the registers were removed. This information is then provided in an efficient manner for design debugging purposes.
US08166426B2
A method for reducing a depth of binary decision diagram includes identifying, with a processing device, one or more less probable positive paths within the binary decision diagram, the less probable positive paths within the binary decision diagram include a number of decision nodes from a starting variable to a positive, binary logic “1” terminal node within the binary decision diagram, and the identified less probable positive paths are eliminated. Identifying the less probable positive paths within the binary decision diagram includes: assigning ƒ to the binary decision diagram, assigning K to a depth threshold of the binary decision diagram, and constructing a second binary decision diagram g by logically ORing together positive paths in ƒ that have a length above K. Eliminating the identified less probable positive paths in ƒ comprises obtaining an approximated function ƒ′, by conjuncting ƒ and the negation of g, such that ƒ′≡ƒ^ g.
US08166423B2
Solutions for verifying photomask designs are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of verifying a photomask design includes: simulating an initial semiconductor manufacturing process using a plurality of mask shapes and variation models for the initial semiconductor manufacturing process, to generate a plurality of contours for the initial semiconductor manufacturing process; simulating a subsequent semiconductor manufacturing process using the contours for the initial semiconductor manufacturing process and variation models for the subsequent semiconductor manufacturing process, to generate a plurality of contours for the subsequent semiconductor manufacturing process; repeatedly simulating at least one further subsequent semiconductor manufacturing process using a plurality of contours for the subsequent semiconductor manufacturing process and variation models for the further subsequent semiconductor manufacturing process; and generating and storing a verification result for the photomask design on a computer readable storage medium.
US08166417B2
In a case where a display control apparatus displays images A and B from respective PCs, a positioning operation using a positional device is started in an area of image A and continuously preformed in the area of that image. The apparatus determines whether or not a position designated in the area of image A has a predetermined positional relationship with an area of image B, partly covering the image A. If it is determined that the designated position has the predetermined positional relationship with the area of image B, the apparatus makes image B transparent. The apparatus then issues coordinates data indicating the designated position in the area of image B, to the PC for outputting image A.
US08166410B2
This invention is directed to methods and systems of online mapping and planning driving tours. The invention may include a user interface capable of displaying a map with one or more destinations and/or displaying a travel route to visit each destination. The travel route may vary based on customizable options. The invention may also provide a tour summary that may show the driving directions for the travel route.
US08166398B2
The present invention relates generally to a method for dynamically displaying a control bar of a multimedia player, wherein one subjective thereof is to prevent overlap occurred to the menu image provided by a multimedia source. The method is preferably used for a digital versatile disc with high storage capacity, for example, the Blu-ray disc. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the method includes a first step of retrieving an Interactive Graphic (IG) stream from a disc, in which the IG stream defines an interactive graphic to be displayed. The method next goes to detect a trigger event of displaying a control bar in response to a user's operation. Further, an available region of the screen and a displaying mode are determined after analyzing the IG stream. Finally, the control bar, as the displaying mode describes, is show on the screen.
US08166392B2
Methods for prioritizing documents, such as email messages, is disclosed. In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method first receives a document. The method assigns a measure of priority to the document, by employing a text classifier such as a Bayesian classifier or a support-vector machine classifier. The method then outputs the priority. In one embodiment, the method includes alerting the user about a document, such as an email message, based on the expected loss associated with delays expected in reviewing the document as compared to the expected cost of distraction and transmission incurred with alerting the user about the document.
US08166389B2
A method for storing customized attributes in a clinical document architecture (CDA) document to provide searching functionality in a clinical environment includes retrieving, from a clinical database, attributes to be attached to a document in accordance with scripted instructions received from a user. The method further includes concatenating the retrieved attributes in accordance with the scripted instructions to create a customized, derived attribute, storing the customized, derived attribute in the document, and sending the document with the customized, derived attribute to the clinical database for storage.
US08166380B2
A fault analysis apparatus includes: an extracting unit that extracts a segment including a point of fault from a plurality of paths in a target circuit; a detecting unit that detects a candidate path that extends, via the segment, from an upstream circuit element to a downstream circuit element; a judging unit that judges whether length of the candidate path is longer than a predetermined length; and a determining unit that determines whether to determine the candidate path as a target path to be subjected to a fault simulation based on a result of judgment.
US08166377B2
The present invention discloses a configurable hierarchical comma-free Reed-Solomon decoding circuit and a method thereof. The design is based on an original hierarchical parallel architecture which not only completes a decoding process faster than conventional decoder, but also utilizes less hardware to perform various algorithms with less power consumed. The architecture of the present invention has higher decoding rate than the conventional systolic architecture by a cycle ratio of 22 to 94. Further, the present invention does not require the use of ROM to store 64 sets of codewords and uses logic gates less than one fourth of the logic gates than conventional systolic architecture. As a result, the circuit of the present invention occupies less area than the conventional architecture. The circuit of the present invention is also configurable for different applications, so it can always find an optimal compromise between speed and power consumption for various decoding requirements.
US08166370B1
A Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks (RAID) controller comprises a RAID error correction code (ECC) encoder module that receives data for storage and that generates code words for data drives and one or more parity drives, which have physical locations. The code words are generated based on the data and a cyclic code generator polynomial. Logical locations correspond to index positions in the cyclic code generator polynomial. A mapping module maps the physical locations of the data and parity drives to the logical locations. The mapping module adds a new data drive to an unused one of the logical locations. A difference generating module generates a difference code word based on the new data drive. The RAID ECC encoder module encodes the difference code word and adds the encoded difference code word to an original code word generated before the new data drive is added.
US08166365B2
Methods and techniques are disclosed for correcting the effect of cycle slips in a coherent communications system. A signal comprising SYNC bursts having a predetermined periodicity and a plurality of known symbols at predetermined locations between successive SYNC bursts is received. The received signal is partitioned into data blocks. Each data block encompasses at least data symbols and a set of check symbols corresponding to the plurality of known symbols at predetermined locations between a respective pair of successive SYNC bursts in the signal. Each data block is processed to detect a cycle slip. When a cycle slip is detected, the set of check symbols of the data block are examined to identify a first slipped check symbol, and a phase correction applied to data symbols of the data block lying between the first slipped check symbol and an end of the data block.
US08166363B2
A decoding device and method for decoding an LDPC code with high accuracy while suppressing an increase of the scale of a device. A check node calculator (181) performs check node calculations including calculations of a nonlinear function φ(x) and its inverse function φ−1(x) of the nonlinear function so as to decode an LDPC code. A variable node calculator (103) performs variable node calculation of a variable node so as to decode the LDPC code. The check node calculator (181) has an LUT which receives a fixed-point quantized value expressing a numerical value with a fixed quantization width and outputs the result of the calculation of the nonlinear function φ(x) as a semi-floating point quantized value which is a bit sequence expressing a numerical value with a quantization width determined by a part of a bit sequence and an LUT which receives a semi-floating point quantized value and outputs the result of the calculation of the inverse function φ−1(x) as a fixed point quantized value. The invention can be applied to e.g., a tuner for receiving a satellite broadcast.
US08166350B2
A computer-readable medium is configured to receive a report processing request at a hierarchical report processor. The hierarchical report processor includes a parent process and at least one child process executing on a single processing unit, and is configured to process the report processing request as a task on the single processing unit.
US08166345B2
A system, method, and product are disclosed for testing multiple threads simultaneously. The threads share a real memory space. A first portion of the real memory space is designated as exclusive memory such that the first portion appears to be reserved for use by only one of the threads. The threads are simultaneously executed. The threads access the first portion during execution. Apparent exclusive use of the first portion of the real memory space is permitted by a first one of the threads. Simultaneously with permitting apparent exclusive use of the first portion by the first one of the threads, apparent exclusive use of the first portion of the real memory space is also permitted by a second one of the threads. The threads simultaneously appear to have exclusive use of the first portion and may simultaneously access the first portion.
US08166337B2
Relating with board numbers of the boards mounted with the logic circuits and mounted places on the boards and in relation to log information to be collected from the logic circuits, analysis information describing information to be processed when the log information is generated, information of a condition for which the log information is to be valid, and information of a condition for which the log information is to be invalid are defined for analyzing failures using the analysis information based on the logic circuits. Upon the realization of the failure analysis based on the logic circuits, the analysis information further describes information of the priority of the log information to realize a thorough analysis of critical failures.
US08166336B2
Campaign-production management is performed for a plurality of campaigns on at least a primary server or a secondary server. The plurality of campaigns is processed on the primary server. The contents of the plurality of campaigns are synchronized between the primary server and the secondary server. On failure of the primary server, processing of the plurality of campaigns is transferred to the secondary server. Further, the failback of the processing of the campaigns is performed on the primary server.
US08166332B2
A method and system for enhancing computer peripheral safety is provided. In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, the exemplary method and system are configured to monitor and/or isolate alternating current (A.C.) supplies with and/or from any peripheral subsystems or devices. An exemplary method and system comprises an A.C. supply, a host computer system, and a peripheral subsystem or device connected to the host computer system, such as an ultrasound imaging and/or therapy peripheral, and an isolation subsystem configured for monitoring and/or isolating the A.C. supply from the peripheral subsystem or device. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, an isolation subsystem comprises application software and associated modules and functions that when executed continuously monitors and/or polls the host computer's hardware and/or operating system for the presence of an isolated source, such as a battery, or an unisolated power source, such as through a battery charger and/or other connection path to the A.C. main supply. In accordance with other exemplary embodiments, an isolation subsystem can comprises a wireless or other safe/isolated electrical link for connecting a patient contact device, and/or a verification link or other verification mechanisms configured between an isolation transformer and host computer to monitor or observe usage to power the host computer and peripheral subsystem.
US08166323B2
A method and system to selectively move one or more of a plurality threads which are executing in parallel by a plurality of processing cores. In one embodiment, a thread may be moved from executing in one of the plurality of processing cores to executing in another of the plurality of processing cores, the moving based on a performance characteristic associated with the plurality of threads. In another embodiment of the invention, a power state of the plurality of processing cores may be changed to improve a power efficiency associated with the executing of the multiple threads.
US08166322B2
A portable terminal device includes a supplying unit for supplying, to a CPR, an operating frequency of a clock signal used to operate the CPU, a setting unit for setting one clock level out of a plurality of clock levels assigned with the operating frequency in accordance with an operating state of the CPU and changing an operating frequency stepwise at the clock levels to set the clock level of the operating frequency, a control unit for controlling the operating frequency supplied to the CPU at the clock levels based on settings made by the setting unit, and an input accepting unit for accepting a key input. If the input accepting unit accepts the key input, the setting unit sets the clock level to a predetermined level irrespective of an operating state of the CPU.
US08166314B1
A method is provided for controlling I/O request access to an encrypted storage device when the encryption key for the encrypted storage device is not available. The method comprises the unordered steps of: providing an I/O filter driver in operable communication with an encrypted storage device, such that all I/O requests to the encrypted storage device are processed first through the I/O filter driver; receiving at the I/O filter driver an I/O request to the encrypted storage device; determining, for each I/O request, the type of the I/O request and, if the I/O request comprises a read, SCSI read, write, or SCSI write, determining a location on the storage device to which the I/O request is directed; determining, in a processor, whether a time period for obtaining the encryption key is still running; and, based on at least one of the I/O request type, whether the time period for obtaining the encryption key is still running, and, if applicable, the location on the device to which the I/O is requested, determining, in a processor, whether the I/O request to the encrypted storage device will be allowed.
US08166312B2
The present invention provides a method of providing parameters for the fitting process of individually shaped or customized hearing devices by collecting and storing fitting parameters during a fitting process by a local fitting computer; generating an individual encryption key related to the hearing device; sending the stored fitting parameters encrypted with the encryption key to a remote database; storing the encryption key in the memory of the hearing device; reading out the encryption key from the hearing device; reading out data from the remote database using the encryption. Thus, the privacy of the individual fitting data of a hearing device is secured.
US08166301B2
A method is disclosed for enabling stateless server-based pre-shared secrets. Based on a local key that is not known to a client, a server encrypts the client's state information. The client's state information may include, for example, the client's authentication credentials, the client's authorization characteristics, and a shared secret key that the client uses to derive session keys. By any of a variety of mechanisms, the encrypted client state information is provided to the client. The server may free memory that stored the client's state information. When the server needs the client's state information, the client sends, to the server, the encrypted state information that the client stored. The server decrypts the client state information using the local key. Because each client stores that client's own state information in encrypted form, the server does not need to store any client's state information permanently.
US08166298B2
Disclosed is a downloadable conditional access system (DCAS) including a key request unit to transmit a key request message to an authentication server, an authentication request unit to request authentication from the authentication server based on a key response message received from the authentication server in response to the key request message, and a session establishment unit to establish a session with the authentication server, based on an authentication response message received in response to the authentication request.
US08166296B2
Techniques are provided for users to authenticate themselves to components in a system. The users may securely and efficiently enter credentials into the components. These credentials may be provided to a server in the system with strong authentication that the credentials originate from secure components. The server may then automatically build a network by securely distributing keys to each secure component to which a user presented credentials.
US08166287B2
A system and method for improved audio controls on a personal computer is provided. The system and method provide a unified architecture for audio controls across hardware and software interfaces of the personal computer. An intelligent facility may automatically change audio controls for users to simply interact with various communications and media applications. To this end, a configurable audio controller intelligently handles various aspects of the system's audio devices by following various rules that may be based at least in part on user-configurable settings and a current operating state. The present invention also provides audio controls so that a user may easily change audio settings such as the volume of an audio output device. There are many applications that may use the present invention for automatic control of audio devices based upon the user's context.
US08166286B2
The invention relates to a data pipeline comprising a first stage with a data input for receiving a digital data input signal, a clock input and a data output, and a first bi-stable element being adapted to be switched in response to an edge of a first clock signal, and a dynamic latch stage comprising an input transfer element, and a second bi-stable element coupled between the input transfer element and a dynamic latch data output, wherein the input transfer element is adapted to be switched by a second clock signal and a delayed second clock signal, which is delayed with respect to the second clock signal by a first period of time being shorter than half a period of the second clock signal, such that the input transfer element allows signal transfer only during the first period of time.
US08166281B2
There are provided methods and computer program products for implementing instruction set architectures with non-contiguous register file specifiers. A method for processing instruction code includes processing a fixed-width instruction of a fixed-width instruction set using a non-contiguous register specifier of a non-contiguous register specification. The fixed-width instruction includes the non-contiguous register specifier.
US08166270B2
A storage control apparatus according to the present invention includes a plurality of connecting units connected to one or more host computers and one or more hard disk drives as storage media for storing data, one or more non-volatile storage media which are of a different type from the hard disk drives and which store data WRITE requested from the host computer, a plurality of processing units for processing WRITE and READ requests from the host computer by using the hard disk drives or the non-volatile storage media and, a plurality of memory units for storing control information to be by the processing units.
US08166265B1
Backup systems and methods are disclosed for a virtual computing environment. Certain examples include a system having a backup management server that communicates with a host server having at least one virtual machine. The management server coordinates with the host server to perform backup copies of entire virtual machine disks from outside the guest operating system of the virtual machine. In certain examples, such backup systems further utilize a volume shadow copy service executing on the host server to quiesce virtual machine applications to put data in a consistent state to be backed up. The backup system then utilizes hypervisor snapshot capabilities of the host server to record intended changes to the virtual machine disk files while such files are being copied (e.g., backed up) by the host server. Such recorded changes can be later committed to the virtual machine disk files once the backup operation has completed.
US08166264B2
Systems and methods for consistent logical volume management of the storage subsystem. The present invention guarantees permanent identification data consistency while migrating, mirroring, creating, deleting LU and so on. It prevents the administrator from the change of management.
US08166258B2
Described embodiments provide skip operations for transferring data to or from a plurality of non-contiguous sectors of a solid-state memory. A host layer module sends data to, and receives commands from, a communication link. Received commands are one of read requests or write requests, with commands including i) a starting sector address, ii) a skip mask indicating the span of all sector addresses in the request and the sectors to be transferred, iii) a total number of sectors to be transferred; and, for write requests, iv) the data to be written to the sectors. A buffer stores data for transfer to or from the solid-state memory. A buffer layer module i) manages the buffer, ii) segments the span of the request into a plurality of chunks, and iii) determines, based on the skip mask, a number of chunks to be transferred to or from the solid-state memory.
US08166257B1
Methods and systems for mapping data-management requirements to the provisioning of a data storage system to conform to a set of user-defined data-management policies. A conformance engine with storage system awareness translates the set of data-management policies to a corresponding set of storage-provisioning policies and provisions the resources of the storage system thereby to conform the storage system to the data-management policies. A conformance checker continuously and automatically compares the provisioning of the storage system resources to the provisioning required to meet the data-management policies. When nonconformance is detected, the conformance engine automatically re-provisions the available resources of the storage system to conform the storage system to the data management policies.
US08166252B2
A processor loads a program from a main memory, detects a register updating instruction, and registers the address of the register updating instruction in a register-producer table storing unit. Moreover, the processor loads the program to detect a memory access instruction, compares a register number utilized by the detected memory access instruction with a register-producer table to specify an address generation instruction, and rewrites an instruction corresponding to the address generation instruction.
US08166250B2
An information processing unit includes at least one cache memory provided between an instruction execution section and a storage section and a control section controlling content of address information based on a result of comparison processing between an address requested by a hardware prefetch request issuing section for memory access and address information held in an address information holding section, wherein when the control section causes the address information holding section to hold address information or address information in the address information holding section is updated, overwrite processing on the address information is inhibited for a predetermined time.
US08166234B2
A system code is stored in a first nonvolatile memory. The first nonvolatile memory and a second nonvolatile memory are heated during assembly of an electronic device including the first nonvolatile memory and a second nonvolatile memory. The heating is to a temperature sufficient to change a state of at least some memory cells in the second nonvolatile memory device. After the heating, the system code stored in the first nonvolatile memory is copied into the second nonvolatile memory. The first nonvolatile memory may he less vulnerable to temperature-related data alteration than the second nonvolatile memory. For example, the first nonvolatile memory may include a NAND flash memory and the second nonvolatile memory may include a variable resistance memory.
US08166230B2
A memory system is provided includes a host processor, and a plurality of cascade connected memory cards connected to the host processor. Each of the memory cards stores a same default relative card address (RCA) prior to initialization of the memory system. The host processor is configured to sequentially access each memory card using the default RCA, and to change the default RCA to a unique RCA upon each sequential access.
US08166228B2
A non-volatile memory system and a method for reading data therefrom are provided. The data comprises a first sub-data and a second sub-data. The non-volatile memory system comprises a first storage unit and a second storage unit, adapted for storing the two sub-data respectively. The first storage unit reads a first command from the controller, and stores the first sub-data temporarily as the first temporary sub-data according to the first command. The second storage unit reads a second command from the controller, and stores the second sub-data temporarily as the second temporary sub-data according to the second command. The first temporary sub-data is read from the first storage unit. Then, the first storage unit reads a third command from the controller. The second temporary sub-data is also read from the second storage unit while reading the third command. The time for reading data from the non-volatile memory system is reduced.
US08166226B2
A computer system has a central processing unit, a north bridge electrically connected to the central processing unit, memory electrically connected to the north bridge, a south bridge electrically connected to the north bridge, and a peripheral device electrically connected to the south bridge. The south bridge includes a register for storings a plurality of pre-fetched read data to provide the pre-fetched read data to the peripheral device. The north bridge has an address queue module for storing an address of the pre-fetched read data, and a snooping module for checking whether a data value corresponding to the address is updated by the CPU. The north bridge assists the south bridge in obtaining and maintaining the pre-fetched read data for high efficiency and accuracy of read caching of the south bridge.
US08166220B2
A dual-interface connector for providing an interface to a storage device and an interface to a host and for connecting between a storage device and a host includes a storage device interface, for connecting with a storage device, and a host interface, for connecting with a host. A controller is operable in at least two distinct modes of operation. In a first mode of operation, the controller enables a session to be opened, by the host, between the storage device and the host when the storage device is connected to the storage device interface and the host is connected to the host interface. In a second mode of operation, the controller is operative, if an open session exists between the storage device and the host, to maintain the open session between the storage device and the host even after the storage device is disconnected from the storage device interface.
