US08344366B2
Provided are an organic thin film transistor and a method of forming the same. The method comprises forming a gate electrode on a substrate, forming a gate dielectric, which covers the gate electrode and includes a recess region at an upper portion, on the substrate, forming a source electrode and a drain electrode in the recess region, and forming an organic semiconductor layer between the source electrode and the drain electrode in the recess region.
US08344364B2
Provided are a nano semiconductor sheet, a thin film transistor (TFT) using the nano semiconductor sheet, and a flat panel display using nano semiconductor sheet. The nano semiconductor sheet has excellent characteristics, can be manufactured at room temperature, and has good flexibility. The nano semiconductor sheet includes: a first film and a second film disposed on at least one side of or inside of the first film, and includes a plurality of nano particles arranged substantially in parallel to each other. In addition, provided are a method of manufacturing a nano semiconductor sheet and methods of manufacturing a TFT and a flat panel display using the nano semiconductor sheet. The method of manufacturing a nano semiconductor sheet, includes: forming first polymer micro-fibers having a plurality of nano particles arranged substantially in parallel; preparing a first film; and arranging a plurality of the first micro-fibers on at least one side of or inside of the first film.
US08344360B2
An encapsulation for an organic light emitting diode (OLED) device is disclosed. The encapsulation includes a sealing dam surrounding the cell region of the OLED device to support a cap. Spacer particles are randomly located in the cell region to prevent the cap from contacting the active components, thereby protecting them from damage. The sealing dam provides a sealing region between the edge of the cap and dam in which an adhesive is applied to seal the OLED device. The use of the sealing dam advantageously enables devices to be formed with narrower sealing widths.
US08344356B2
A semiconductor material is provided comprising: a composition graded layer, formed on a Si substrate or an interlayer formed thereon, comprising a composition of AlXGa1-XN graded such that a content ratio of Al in the composition decreases continuously or discontinuously in a crystal growing direction; a superlattice composite layer, formed on the composition graded layer, comprising a high Al-containing layer comprising a composition of AlYGa1-YN and a low Al-containing layer comprising a composition of AlZGa1-ZN that are laminated alternately; and a nitride semiconductor layer formed on the superlattice composite layer.
US08344351B2
A phase change memory device includes a plurality of memory cells comprising a substrate having a contact surface with an array of conductive contacts to be connected with access circuitry and a nitride layer formed at the contact surface. A plurality of vias are formed through the nitride layer to the contact surface and correspond to each conductive contact, the vias including a conformal conductive seed layer lining each via along exposed portions of the nitride layer and the contact surface and having oxidized edges. A dielectric layer is recessed within the conformal conductive seed layer and exposes a center region of each via. A phase change material is recessed within the center region of each via. A conductive material that remains conductive upon oxidation is formed over the phase change material. A top electrode is formed on each memory cell.
US08344347B2
An electrode structure including two parallel electrical paths. A plurality of electrode layers, generally tabular in form is formed in a stack, the outermost layers providing electrical contacts, and defining a first electrical current path through the stack. Two sidewall conductor layers are formed to abut either end of the electrode layer stack, two sidewall conductor layers defining a second electrical current path. The ends of the sidewall conduction layers lie in the same planes as the electrode layer electrical contacts, such that electrode structure electrical contacts are each formed from one set of sidewall layer ends and an electrode layer electrical contact.
US08344346B2
A semiconductor memory device includes a plurality of word lines vertically formed on a surface of a semiconductor substrate, where each pair of the plurality of word lines form a set of word lines, a bit line formed parallel to the surface of the semiconductor substrate and disposed in plurality stacked between the word lines of each pair constituting the one set of word lines, and unit memory cells disposed between respective ones of the bit lines and an adjacent one of the pair of word lines of said one of the word line sets.
US08344345B2
A first wire layer (19) including first memory wires (12) is connected to a second wire layer (20) including second memory wires (17) via first contacts (21) penetrating a first interlayer insulating layer (13). The first wire layer (13) is connected to and led out to upper wires (22) via second contacts (26) connected to the second wire layer (20) and penetrating the second interlayer insulating layer (18). The first contacts (21) penetrate semiconductor layer (17b) or insulator layer (17c) of the second wire layer (20).
US08344343B2
A phase change memory device and a method of manufacture are provided. The phase change memory device includes a phase change layer electrically coupled to a top electrode and a bottom electrode, the phase change layer comprising a phase change material. A mask layer is formed overlying the phase change layer. A first sealing layer is formed overlying the mask layer, and a second sealing layer is formed overlying the first sealing layer.
US08344338B2
Systems and methods presented herein are generally directed to enhancing electrical discharge. A hollow conical electrode may be provided to discharge electrical energy in a directed manner. The conical electrode has two openings: a larger entrance opening; and a smaller exit opening. These openings are configured to allow radiated energy to pass therethrough and form a preferential path of electrical conduction. The larger entrance opening has a surface with a radius of curvature that is larger than that of the second smaller exit opening. The smaller exit opening directs electrical energy to the path because of stronger electric fields. In one embodiment, a protruding electrode element is configured with the smaller exit opening to further enhance electrical discharge by focusing electric fields in the vicinity of the protruding electrode.
US08344335B2
A dosimeter for radiation fields is described. The dosimeter includes a scintillator a light pipe having a first end in optical communication with the scintillator and a light detector. The light pipe may have a hollow core with a light reflective material about the periphery of the hollow core. The dosimeter may further include a light source that generates light for use as a calibrating signal for a measurement signal and/or for use to check the light pipe.
US08344334B2
A method for the detection or determination of a target comprising a plurality of target compounds, or derivatised target compounds, said method comprising: immobilizing said target on a carrier, directing radiation at said target, said radiation being selected to cause said target to emit a relevant radiation, detecting said relevant radiation emitted by said target, and analyzing said detected radiation to identify and/or quantify the plurality of target compounds in said target.
US08344313B2
A touch system including a touch panel and a readout circuit is disclosed. The touch panel is integrated with a plurality of photosensitive elements within pixel elements, and capable of displaying at least touch position by at least an optical inputting. The touch panel provides a signal data when the touch panel is touched. The readout circuit is configured to receive the signal data and includes a transformation unit and a processing unit. The transformation unit generates a signal value based on the signal data and a transformation parameter. The processing unit executes a specific action when the signal value is less than a preset value.
US08344311B2
An optical touch panel comprises a transparent plate, a plurality of light-emitting devices and a plurality of light-receiving devices arranged around the transparent plate, a first substrate to which some of the light-receiving devices are fixed, and a second substrate to which others of the light-receiving devices are fixed. Each of the substrates has a surface layer that has a surface roughness which causes diffuse reflection of the same kind of light as light emitted by the light-emitting devices. A region having the surface roughness on a surface of the surface layer includes a region on the surface of the surface layer included in directivity ranges of the light-receiving devices fixed to the substrate.
US08344308B2
An image reader includes: a rectangular substrate; a photoelectric conversion element that is mounted on one surface of the substrate; a connector that is mounted on the other surface of the substrate so as to be closer to one end face of the substrate than a position on the substrate where the photoelectric conversion element is mounted, and is connected to a signal line; a support member; and a restricting member that is provided on the substrate so as to be closer to the one end face of the substrate in the longitudinal direction than the position where the substrate is supported by the support member, when another connector is fitted to at least the connector, the restricting member coming into contact with the one surface of the substrate and restricting the deformation of the substrate in a direction in which the another connector is fitted.
US08344304B2
Methods and apparatus for delivering a missile may operate in conjunction with a missile comprising an outer skin. The missile may be configured in a closed position and an open position. In the open position, an aperture is opened in the outer skin, for example to supply air to an air-breathing engine. In the closed position, the aperture is closed.
US08344295B2
Techniques for providing heat to a small area and apparatus capable of providing heat to a small area are provided.
US08344287B2
A method for determination of electrical variables of a welding circuit which is connected to an electrical power supply device and operable to provide either a welding current or a lesser pilot current, the method including the steps of (a) determining the resistance of the welding circuit and (b) determining the inductance of the welding circuit.
US08344275B2
In a switching device 1 formed by integrating a connector 4 for coupling a flexible printed wiring board to a lever switch 2, the lever switch 2 comprises: a case 3; a fixed contact 20 and a movable contact 30 installed inside the case 3; and a lever 40 that deforms the movable contact 30 by tilt operation to switch contact with the fixed contact 20, the connector 4 covers a connecting terminal of the fixed contact 20 protruding from the case 3, and includes a connector cover 60 in which an insertion opening 62 to insert the flexible printed wiring board 100, and the terminal 101 of the board 100 is connected to the connecting terminal of the fixed contact 20 when the board 100 is inserted in the insertion opening 62.
US08344274B2
A position locking device is disclosed for a draw-out circuit breaker. In at least one embodiment, the position locking device includes a screw rod, a catching plate, a positioning plate, a locking plate, and a push rod. The screw rod has key ways. The catching plate has a catching plate hole and a protrusion that can be inserted into the key ways. Positioning notches for limiting OFF, TEST, and ON positions of the circuit breaker are formed on the top surface of the positioning plate, and corresponding protruding platforms are disposed on the bottom surface. One end of the locking plate bears against the bottom surface of the positioning plate, and the other end is locked to or unlocked from an outward protruding platform of the catching plate. One end of the push rod passes through the catching plate hole, and has an inclined surface. When the push rod is pushed, the inclined surface makes the catching plate leave the key ways. The position locking device is structurally simple and reasonable, secure, reliable, and convenient to operate. The cost for manufacturing, installing or maintaining the device is lowered.
US08344270B2
A combination of a main carrier and a printed circuit board. Light and heavy electrical and/or electronic components are fixed on the printed circuit board, wherein at least one heavy component is mechanically fixedly connected to the main carrier and electrically conductively connected to conductor tracks of a first section of the printed circuit board. The first section of the printed circuit board is electrically conductively connected to a second section of the printed circuit board and decoupled from the second section of the printed circuit board with regard to mechanical vibrations by means of a decoupling device. The decoupling device may be, for example, a flexible section or a recess formed in said printed circuit board.
US08344256B2
A modular polymeric insulator for overhead power distribution networks. The insulator includes a first insulating module adjacent to a supporting element; at least one further insulating module superimposed to the first insulating module and a non-metallic pin extending through the first insulating module and the at least one further insulating module. The modular polymeric insulator has a similar performance to a “Post type” insulator with the advantage of being resistant to impact and much lighter than a “Post type” insulator.
US08344253B2
A coaxial transducer that uses lead zirconate titanate ceramic or other suitable material as an isolator between the conductors in a coaxial cable to transmit acoustic power at useful levels. The lead zirconate titanate ceramic is diced into thin disks and placed in between spacers made of much stronger insulating material. The coaxial cable is then integrated into a conventional double-armored steel tow cable with a typical diameter of 1″. This provides substantial longitudinal strength and provides crushing resistance to the lead zirconate titanate ceramic when the cable is being deployed or retrieved over a sheave under tension.
US08344252B2
A cable splice connection assembly for coupling a first cable to a second cable generally includes a main body having first and second ends and defining an inner cavity, the first end configured to receive at least a portion of a first cable therein, and the second end configured to receive at least a portion of a second cable therein, and a first engagement mechanism configured to couple the main body to a first cable wherein the first engagement mechanism includes a cable seal, wherein the cable seal includes an adhesive seal.
US08344251B2
The present disclosure describes a plate assembly for an electrical outlet. In some embodiments, the plate assembly includes a strapping plate that is attachable to the electrical outlet, and a cover plate sub-assembly that is selectively attachable to the strapping plate. In some embodiments, the cover plate sub-assembly includes a body portion that lies in a first plane, and a first retention member that is fixed to the body portion, and that lies in a second plane parallel to the first plane. The first retention member selectively engages the strapping plate to releasably secure the cover plate sub-assembly thereto. Embodiments of an electrical outlet assembly that implement the plate assembly are also described.
US08344247B2
A cable management system includes a panel with a plurality of openings, each opening defining a similar configuration, each opening defining a first dimension and a second dimension, the first dimension being longer than the second dimension. A cable management structure is removably coupled to the panel, the cable management structure including a plurality of latching elements, each latching element defining a retaining portion received through each opening of the panel, each retaining portion having a first dimension that is smaller than or equal to the second dimension of the opening and a second dimension that is greater than the second dimension of the opening, wherein the cable management structure is coupled to the panel by inserting the retaining portion of each latching element through each opening and rotating the cable management structure in a first direction with respect to the panel.
US08344236B2
A guitar pickup for use with an electric guitar may comprise a base, a plurality of magnets operably coupled to the base, and a plurality of bobbins situated on the plurality of magnets. The plurality of bobbins may each have a pole slug within its interior and may each have a wire coiled around its shaft. One or more of the plurality of magnets may be able to induce a change in magnetic flux in the pole slug in response to vibrations of a guitar string of the electric guitar.
US08344234B2
A tempo detecting device 100 includes an envelope detecting means 1 that detects an envelope of musical composition data, a frequency-component detecting means 2 that performs a discrete Fast Fourier Transform processing on the detected envelope to thereby detect a frequency spectrum, and a tempo detecting means 3 that detects, based on a characteristic of the detected frequency spectrum, a tempo of the musical composition data.
US08344231B2
This invention improves guitar pitch stability and requires no modifications to a guitar or any of its parts. It is a low profile design which pertains in particular to Fender Stratocasters or any electric guitars with a similar bridge plate and tone block design. This invention does basically two things. First, the guitar strings are rerouted giving a much softer string bend past the string saddles (similar to Gibson guitars) which significantly reduces string drag (friction) at the saddles. After “dive-bombing” downward or going upward in pitch via the tremolo arm (as with a Stratocaster), the guitar returns to its original pitch when the tremolo arm is released. Second, readjustable saddle clamps are used which hold and lock all six string saddles together in position and to the bridge plate after string height and intonation adjustments have been made.
US08344224B1
A novel maize variety designated X13A491 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X13A491 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X13A491 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X13A491, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X13A491. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X13A491.
US08344221B2
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV786079. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV786079, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV786079 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV786079 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV786079.
US08344215B1
A novel soybean variety, designated XB39E10 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB39E10, cells from soybean variety XB39E10, plants of soybean XB39E10, and plant parts of soybean variety XB39E10. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB39E10 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic, mutant trait, and/or native trait into soybean variety XB39E10, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB39E10. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB39E10 are further provided.
US08344212B1
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP47006 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP47006, cells from soybean variety XBP47006, plants of soybean XBP47006, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP47006. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP47006 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic, mutant trait, and/or native trait into soybean variety XBP47006, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP47006. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP47006 are further provided.
US08344211B2
The present invention relates to isolated nucleic acid molecules and their corresponding encoded polypeptides. The present invention further relates to the uses of these nucleic acid molecules and polypeptides. For example, the nucleic acid molecules and polypeptides could be used in making enzymes or used to make plants, plant cells, plant materials or seeds of a plant having such modulated growth or phenotype characteristics that are altered with respect to wild type plants grown under similar conditions.
US08344200B2
A process for the purification of aromatic streams is provided that includes a new start up procedure that in embodiments significantly reduces impurities in an aromatics feedstock.
US08344192B2
The invention provides a technique enabling the separation and recovery of an unreacted fluoromonomer from an aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion obtained by emulsion polymerization, without using any extraction solvent, and enabling the prevention of a hydrolysis of —SO2F and a like sulfonic acid precursor functional group convertible to sulfonic acid group. Thus, the invention provides a recovering method fluoromonomer having a sulfonic acid precursor functional group convertible to a sulfonic acid group and remaining unreacted from an aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion obtained by emulsion polymerization of the fluoromonomer, wherein the unreacted fluoromonomer is recovered from the aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion by evaporation, wherein the aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion has an acidic pH.
US08344188B2
This invention provides a method for producing ethanol and 2-propanol from syngas, the method comprising: (a) converting syngas into methanol using a methanol-synthesis catalyst; (b) converting methanol into ethylene and propylene using a methanol-to-olefins catalyst; and (c) hydrating ethylene into ethanol and propylene into 2-propanol. As taught herein, the combined yield of the ethanol and the 2-propanol from biomass can be at least 100 gallons per dry ton biomass. In certain embodiments, the yield of ethanol is at least 100 gallons per dry ton biomass. In some embodiments, the yield of 2-propanol is at least 50 gallons per dry ton biomass.
US08344185B2
Process for preparing a chlorohydrin from a polyhydroxylated aliphatic hydrocarbon, from an ester of a polyhydroxylated aliphatic hydrocarbon or from a mixture thereof, and from a chlorinating agent, the chlorinating agent comprising at least one of the following compounds: nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, chlorine, an organic hydrocarbon compound, an organic halogen compound, an organic oxygen compound and a metal.
US08344177B2
The invention relates to portable albumin binders, which are useful for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of diagnostic or therapeutic agents, in particular increasing the blood circulations time and/or the tissue penetration capacity of such agents.
US08344176B2
The present disclosure relates to a process for the preparation of 2-(3 -diisopropylamino-1-phenylpropyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)phenol or its phenolic monoesters or salts thereof, characterized by the steps of a) reacting a compound of formula (II) with a mixture of a Grignard initiator and Mg in a solvent; b) optionally reducing the temperature of the Grignard reagent to a lower temperature than in step a), and reacting the resulting Grignard reagent with an excess of a carbonate in a solvent, to obtain a compound of formula (III) wherein A is a C1-C6 alkyl, and the further reacting the compound of formula (III) in a known manner to obtain the desired end product.
US08344173B2
A cyclotriphosphazene represented by Formula 1 prepared by introducing a dendritic tetrapeptide and a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol into a cyclotriphosphazene ring, a method of preparing the same, and a drug carrier including the cyclotriphosphazene of Formula 1.The compound according to the present invention may form a strong molecular hydrogel in a very low concentration of 2 w/w % or less. Furthermore, the hydrogel prepared using the compound of Formula 1 exhibits biodegradability, thermosensitivity at around body temperature, biocompatibility with protein drugs, and an easy way to prepare along with a sustained release property without any burst effect in the early stage of release. Therefore, the present cyclotriphosphazene molecular hydrogel may be efficiently used as a drug carrier for a sustained release of a drug, particularly, a protein drug.
US08344172B2
A process for making bis(aryloxyalkyl)terephthalates useful as antiplasticizers for thermoplastic polyesters is disclosed. Dimethyl terephthalate is reacted with an excess of an aryloxyalkanol in the presence of a condensation catalyst to produce an intermediate mixture comprising a bis(aryloxyalkyl)terephthalate, a mono(aryloxyalkyl)terephthalate, and unreacted aryloxyalkanol. This mixture continues to react at reduced pressure while unreacted aryloxyalkanol is removed and the mono-ester content is reduced to less than 1 mole % based on the combined amounts of mono- and bis-esters. Both steps are performed substantially in the absence of oxygen. Additional unreacted aryloxyalkanol is then removed to provide a purified bis(aryloxyalkyl)terephthalate having an overall purity of at least 98 mole % and a yellowness index less than 10. Careful control over catalysis, exposure to air, and other process conditions enables the preparation of high yields of bis(aryloxyalkyl)terephthalates that have low color and other valuable attributes. A method of producing bis(aryloxyalkyl)terephthalate articles having improved compressive strength is also disclosed.
US08344170B2
A poly(cyclosiloxane) network comprises the hydrosilation reaction product of a cyclosiloxane of the formula (I) wherein R and R2 are the same or different for each siloxane moiety of hydrogen, an alkyl group, an aryl group, and a cycloalkyl group, and wherein n is an integer from 3 to 8, wherein the cyclosiloxanes are joined by moieties selected from the group consisting of oxygen atoms, linear silanols, branched silanols, halosilanes, alkoxysilanes, vinyl silanes, allyl silanes, vinyl siloxanes, and allyl siloxanes, wherein the Si—O bonds of the cyclosiloxanes are substantially unrearranged compared to the cyclosiloxane precursors of the network. A process for the preparation of a poly(cyclosiloxane) network comprises providing a cyclosiloxane; providing a crosslinking group selected from the group consisting of linear silanols, branched silanols, halosilanes, alkoxysilanes, vinyl silanes, allyl silanes, vinyl siloxanes, and allyl siloxanes; contacting the cyclosiloxane and crosslinking group under condensation reaction conditions such that the crosslinking groups provide Si—O—Si linkages between the cyclosiloxane moieties to form a poly(cyclosiloxane) network composition.
US08344163B2
There is provided a nitrile compound having an excellent controlling effect on arthropod pests represented by the formula (I): wherein m represents in integer of 0 to 4; n represents an integer of 1 to 4; q represents an integer of 0 to 4; Q represents a C1-C4 fluoroalkyl group; Z represents an optionally substituted C2-C6 alkynyl group or a ═N—OR3 group; R1 and R2 independently represent a monovalent C1-C4 chain hydrocarbon group optionally substituted with a halogen atom, etc.; and A represents an optionally substituted monovalent C1-C6 chain hydrocarbon group, etc.
US08344160B2
The present application provides compounds, including all stereoisomers, solvates, prodrugs and pharmaceutically acceptable forms thereof according to Formula I wherein R1, R4, R5, R3, R3a, W, D, R2a, R2b and R2c are defined herein. Additionally, the present application provides pharmaceutical compositions containing at least one compound according to Formula I and optionally at least one additional therapeutic agent. Finally, the present application provides methods for treating a patient suffering from an MCHR-1 modulated disease or disorder such as, for example, obesity, diabetes, depression, anxiety or intestinal inflammation, by administration of a therapeutically effective dose of a compound according to Formula I.
US08344158B2
The invention encompasses fluorescent cyanine dyes and methods of using such dyes. In particular, the invention encompasses near infrared polymethine cyanine dyes.
US08344144B2
The instant invention provides for compounds that inhibit the four known mammalian JAK kinases (JAK1, JAK2, JAK3 and TYK2) and PDK1. The invention also provides for compositions comprising such inhibitory compounds and methods of inhibiting the activity of JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2 and PDK1 by administering the compound to a patient in need of treatment for myeloproliferative disorders or cancer.
US08344143B2
The invention is directed to improved processes for preparing Tiotropium bromide.
US08344136B2
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of Brinzolamide, or 2H-thieno[3,2-e]-1,2-thiazin-6-sulfonamide, 4-(ethyl amino)-3,4-dihydro-2-(3-methoxypropyl)-, 1,1-dioxide, (4R)-via intermediates 2,3-dihydro-4H-thieno[3,2-e]-1,2-thiazin-4-ones, 1,1-dioxide. Further objects of the present invention are the intermediates mentioned above and other intermediates of the synthesis.
US08344134B2
The present invention relates to cellulose esters having low hydroxyl content for use in optical applications, such as liquid crystal display (LCD) films. Films made with low hydroxyl levels and a given ratio of non-acetyl ester to hydroxyl level have been found to have low intrinsic birefringence. Therefore, these films can be cast, molded, or otherwise oriented without an appreciable birefringence or optical distortion (i.e. retardation). Such features make these films useful in polarizer, protective, and compensator films as well as molded optical parts, such as lenses. Furthermore, it has also been found that resins of the present invention can also be made to have “+C plate” behavior either by melt or solvent based processing, a characteristic which is not typical of cellulose esters. Such +C behavior allows films to be produced having unique compensatory behavior. Other embodiments of the invention relate to methods melt casting films while minimizing birefringence formation. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to films made from the cellulose esters described herein further comprising a plasticizer.
US08344132B2
Methods for the preparation of the β isomer of a 9-deazapurine derivatives using benzyl protecting groups as the protecting groups for the 2 and 3 hydroxyl groups in ribose are provided.
US08344129B2
The present disclosure relates to RNAi agents useful in methods of treating Beta-ENaC-related diseases such as cystic fibrosis, pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1), Liddle's syndrome, hypertension, alkalosis, hypokalemia, and obesity-associated hypertension, using a therapeutically effective amount of a RNAi agent to Beta-ENaC.
US08344122B2
Mainly provided is a technique for directly identifying the genotype at locus Rf17 based on the specific base sequence data thereof. Also provided is a technique for artificially constructing a fertility-restored line. A method of restoring the fertility of CW-type cytoplasmic male sterile rice by inhibiting or reducing the expression of a gene comprising the base sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:2 in the above-described rice, and a method for determining the presence or absence of gene Rf17, which is a fertility restorer gene for CW-type cytoplasmic male sterility, comprising identifying a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the base at the 1812 position of the base sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:1 in the rice to be examined.
US08344115B2
This invention pertains to a method for detecting a compound in the presence of other compounds that are substantially similar in structure and metabolically related to the analyte. The invention is particularly suited for the detection of S-adenosylmethionine in the presence of S-adenosylhomocysteine, other nucleosides and derivatives in a biological sample. The methods of this invention involve an antibody produced specifically against S-adenosylmethionine; particularly, analogs modified strategically at the sulfonium position. An assay protocol comprises chemically modified analyte analog linked to an enzymatic reporter and the aforementioned antibody was used to demonstrate the assay specificity and sensitivity. Additional assay method with immobilized immunogen, the specific antibody, and an enzyme labeled secondary antibody was also described for illustration. The invention also features hapten design and novel compounds used as haptens to prepare immunogen and for the specific antibody production.
US08344111B2
The invention relates to recombinantly produced human monoclonalantibodies which are specifically binding nicotine and to nucleic acids encoding the same. The invention further relates to the use of such antibodies in the treatment of nicotine addiction.
US08344109B2
The subject of the present invention is an anti-ricin antibody and the use thereof for the treatment of an individual suffering from ricin poisoning.
US08344101B2
The present invention provides a composition which may be ingested orally in a small dose for the purpose of improving brain function, and a method for improving brain function. The present invention is a composition for improving brain function, the composition comprising, as an active ingredient, X-Met-His-Gln-Pro-His-Gln-Pro-Leu-Pro-Pro-Thr-Val-Met-Phe-Pro-Pro-Gln-Ser-Val-Leu (SEQ ID NO: 6) or a salt thereof, wherein X is absent or represents Ser-Trp or Leu-Gln-Ser-Trp (SEQ ID NO: 7).
US08344095B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a fused ring compound which can show sufficient charge transport properties and also has excellent solubility in a solvent. The fused ring compound of the present invention is represented by the following formula (1): wherein R11 and R12 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, an alkylthio group, an alkylamino group, an alkoxycarbonyl group having 3 or more carbon atoms in the alkyl moiety thereof, an aryl group which may have a substituent, a monovalent heterocyclic group which may have a substituent, or a cyano group, wherein at least one of R11 and R12 is not a hydrogen atom; R13 and R14 each independently represent a monovalent group and m and n are an integer of 0 to 2; Y11, Y12, Y13 and Y14 are a predetermined divalent group containing S, O, N, Se, Te or a double bond; Y11 and Y12 are selected so that a ring containing the groups forms a five-membered ring; and Y13 and Y14 are selected so that a ring containing the groups forms a five or six-membered ring.
US08344094B2
An optical material is provided that has a high transmittance, a high refractive index, a low Abbe constant, a high secondary dispersion property, and a low water absorption rate. The optical material includes a polymer of a mixture which contains: a sulfur-containing compound represented by the following general formula (1): a sulfur-containing compound represented by the following general formula (2): and an energy polymerization initiator, in which a content of the sulfur-containing compound represented by the chemical formula (2) is 10% by weight or more to 60% by weight or less, an Abbe constant (νd) of the polymer of the mixture satisfies 18<νd<23, and a secondary dispersion property (θg,F) thereof satisfies 0.68<θg,F<0.69.
US08344088B2
Anti-reflective coating materials for ultraviolet photolithography include at least one absorbing compounds and at least one pH tuning agent that are incorporated into spin-on materials. Suitable absorbing compounds are those that absorb around wavelengths such as 365 nm, 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm that may be used in photolithography. Suitable pH tuning agents not only adjust the pH of the final spin-on composition, but also influence the chemical performance and characteristics, mechanical performance and structural makeup of the final spin-on composition that is part of the layered material, electronic component or semiconductor component, such that the final spin-on composition is more compatible with the resist material that is coupled to it. A method of making absorbing and pH tuned spin-on materials includes combining at least one organic absorbing compound and at least one pH tuning agent with at least one silane reactant during synthesis of the spin-on materials and compositions.
US08344087B2
A method of preparing a diluted chain extended organopolysiloxane containing polymer comprising the steps of reacting a pre-formed polymer with a suitable chain extender reactable with terminal groups of the polymer in the presence of a diluent material, a suitable catalyst and optionally an end-blocking agent; and Where required quenching the polymerization process wherein the diluent material is substantially retained within the resulting diluted organopolysiloxane containing polymer. The case additionally relates to products of the process and subsequent applications for the polymer such as for example sealants and rubbers.
US08344084B2
An admixture comprises an aqueous composition of a) a copolymeric dispersing component, b) an antifoaming agent component, c) a surfactant component, and d) water. The components may be a blend or physically or chemically attached and result in a stable liquid system that can be used as a dispersing agent for a calcium sulfate compound containing construction chemicals composition.
US08344061B2
The present invention relates to polyol dispersions comprising at least one polyol and at least one polymer particle mixture comprising at least one thermoplastic polymer (P) and at least one block copolymer (B), wherein the block copolymer (B) has at least one block which is compatible with the thermoplastic polymer (P) and at least one block which is compatible with the polyol, a process for producing such polyol dispersions, their use for producing polyurethanes and a process for producing polyurethanes.
US08344050B2
Disclosed are a piping member formed by using a propylene-based resin composition comprising 100 parts by mass of a propylene-ethylene random copolymer (A) having an ethylene content of 2 to 5%, a crystallization temperature of 86 to 105° C., a melt flow rate of 0.01 to 2.00 g/10 min and a molecular weight distribution of 3 to 8, and 1 to 15 parts by mass of a styrene-butadiene-base rubber (B) having a styrene content of 10 to 40% and a weight average molecular weight of 200,000 or more as essential components, a melt flow rate after kneading being from 0.01 to 2.00 g/10 min, characterized in that the propylene-based resin composition further comprising a hindered amine-based light stabilizer (C) having a weight average molecular weight of 2,000 or more in the amount of 0.1 to 1.0 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the propylene-ethylene random copolymer; and a piping member formed by using a propylene-based resin composition, wherein the styrene-butadiene-base rubber is a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene block copolymer rubber.
US08344032B2
A composition including a plurality of active ingredients. A first active ingredient of the active ingredients is pyruvate. For each other active ingredient, an amount of that active ingredient is proportionally less than an amount of the first active ingredient. The composition can affect ATP and Krebs efficiency when ingested by an animal.
US08344030B2
Treatment of CNS disorders with (1R,4S)-trans 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-napthalenamine; and (1S,4R)-trans 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-napthalenamine is disclosed. A process for preparing 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-napthalenamine is also disclosed. The process includes the preparation of all four isomers of N-[4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-yl]formamide, which are also useful.
US08344023B2
Di-/trisubstituted furans of the formula (I) and their use as odorants wherein R1 is hydrogen or methyl; R2 is ethyl, propyl or isopropyl; the bond between C-3 and C-4 is a single bond, or the dotted line together with the bond between C-3 and C-4 represents a double bond; and the bond between C-4′ and C-5′ is a single bond, or the dotted line together with the bond between C-4′ and C-5′ represents a double bond, either in (E)- or (Z)-configuration. The invention furthermore relates to a method of their production and to perfume compositions comprising them.
US08344015B2
Novel 2-alkylcycloalk(en)ylcarboxamides of the formula (I) in which X, s, R1, L, R2 and A are as defined in the description, a plurality of processes for preparing these compounds and their use for controlling unwanted microorganisms, and also novel intermediates and their preparation.
US08344013B2
The invention is directed to compounds having the formula: wherein: Ar, r, R2-3, X, and R5-7 are as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. These compounds have AT1 receptor antagonist activity and neprilysin inhibition activity. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US08343997B2
Provided herein are novel sirtuin-modulating compounds of Structural Formula (Ia) and methods of use thereof. The sirtuin-modulating compounds may be used for increasing the lifespan of a cell, and treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, cancer, and/or flushing as well as diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity. Also provided are compositions comprising a sirtuin-modulating compound in combination with another therapeutic agent.
US08343992B2
This invention relates to stereoselective synthesis of R-MNTX and intermediates thereof, pharmaceutical preparations comprising R-MNTX or intermediates thereof and methods for their use.
US08343988B2
This invention comprises the novel compounds of formula (I) wherein n, t, R1, R2, R3, R4, L, Q, X, Y, Z and have defined meanings, having histone deacetylase inhibiting enzymatic activity; their preparation, compositions containing them and their use as a medicine.
US08343975B2
Compounds are provided that act as potent antagonists of the CCR1 receptor, and have in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The compounds are 4-amino-3-imidazoyl-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine derivatives and are useful in pharmaceutical compositions, methods for the treatment of CCR1-mediated disease, and as controls in assays for the identification of competitive CCR1 antagonists.
US08343953B2
The invention provides compounds of the formula (I) having ROCK kinase and/or protein kinase p70S6K inhibiting activity: wherein A is a saturated hydrocarbon linker group containing from 1 to 7 carbon atoms, the linker group having a maximum chain length of 5 atoms extending between R1 and NR2R3 and a maximum chain length of 4 atoms extending between E and NR2R3, wherein one of the carbon atoms in the linker group may optionally be replaced by an oxygen or nitrogen atom; and wherein the carbon atoms of the linker group A may optionally bear one or more substituents selected from oxo, fluorine and hydroxy, provided that the hydroxy group when present is not located at a carbon atom α with respect to the NR2R3 group and provided that the oxo group when present is located at a carbon atom α with respect to the NR2R3 group; E is a monocyclic or bicyclic carbocyclic or heterocyclic group; R1 is an aryl or heteroaryl group; and R2, R3, R4 and R5 are as defined in the claims.
US08343950B2
This invention relates to novel quinazoline derivatives, and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. The invention also provides compositions comprising a compound of this invention and the use of such compositions in methods of treating diseases and conditions beneficially treated by inhibiting cell surface tyrosine receptor kinases.
US08343949B2
Citric acid and conjugate bases thereof are useful for stabilizing stabilized chlorine dioxide in the presence of therapeutically active agents and excipients in a composition. Ophthalmic compositions and methods related thereto are also disclosed herein.
US08343946B2
An ecdysterone compound is described. An ecdysterone compound may include ecdysterone and decanoic acid. An ecdysterone compound may further include ecdysterone and isobutyric acid. An ecdysterone compound may comprise a physiologically active salt or ester of ecdysterone. An ecdysterone compound may further comprise a physiologically active salt or ester of decanoic acid. Alternatively, an ecdysterone compound may include a physiologically active salt or ester of isobutyric acid.
US08343940B2
Disclosed herein is a method for enhancing sensitivity of cancer cells to compounds or radiation by inhibiting the expression of testis-specific protein, Y-encoded like 5 (TSPYL5). More specifically, because methylation of TSPYL5 protein expressed in lung cancer cell line was inhibited to increase the expression level of the gene, resistance to stress such as radiation or anticancer agents was increased. Because the sensitivity of cancer cells to stress such as radiation or anticancer agents was increased by inhibiting the expression of the TSPYL5 gene to promote the apoptosis of the cells, an anticancer supplement agent containing an inhibitor of the expression or activity of the TSPYL5 gene of the present invention inhibits the growth of cancer cells and enhances the sensitivity to various stresses to maximize the apoptosis. Thus, when used in combination with radiotherapy or chemotherapy, the anticancer supplement agent may be used very usefully for anticancer treatment.
US08343933B2
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for modulating (promoting or inhibiting) growth of a tissue, such as bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, and/or neuronal tissue. The present invention also provides methods of screening compounds that modulate activity of an ActRIIB protein and/or an ActRIIB ligand. The compositions and methods provided herein are useful in treating diseases associated with abnormal activity of an ActRIIB protein and/or an ActRIIB ligand.
US08343932B2
The invention relates to the identification of a naturally occurring internal proteolytic cleavage site in the ApoA1 protein, which leads to inactivation of the mature protein. Specific modification of this cleavage site leads to a stabilised ApoA1 protein, which is beneficial for the reverse cholesterol transport. The invention therefore encompasses pharmaceutical compositions comprising a recombinant stabilised variant ApoA1 protein or rHDL particles comprising such a protein, for use in the treatment of patients having reduced HDL or hampered reverse cholesterol transport.
US08343930B2
The present invention relates to a combination therapy method for treating gastrin-dependent tumors. The method comprises the immunization of a patient with an anti-gastrin 17 immunogenic composition in combination with the administration of chemotherapeutic agents such as 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin.
US08343929B2
The present invention provides a method of treating a neoplasm using a neurotoxin, preferably botulinum toxin. Neurotoxin administered around a neoplasm acts to decrease the contractile forces of the muscles surrounding a neoplasm which normally squeeze neoplastic cells through efferent channels leaving the neoplasm to distant sites. The present invention also provides a method of administering botulinum toxin at sites distant from the neoplasm, thereby enhancing cellular and humoral immunologic functions, which further contribute to neoplastic cell death. Following administration of botulinum toxin around or distant to a neoplasm as described herein, local, regional, and distant spread of neoplastic cells is reduced or eliminated. Immunomodulation with botulinum toxin is also valuable in treating other diseases that may or may not be associated with cancers, such as viral-induced growths, viral conditions, fungal disease, chronic wounds, graft versus host disease, autoimmune disease, and HIV.
US08343924B2
The present invention provides a composition which may be ingested orally in a small dose for the purpose of improving brain function, and a method for improving brain function. The present invention is a composition for improving brain function, comprising, as an active ingredient, X-Val-Arg-Gly-Pro-Phe-Pro-Ile-Ile-Val (SEQ ID NO: 5), wherein X is absent or represents Pro.
US08343921B2
Use of polypeptide micromolecule MLIF in preparing medicine for preventing and treating myocardial ischmia, where amino acid sequence of the polypeptide micromolecule MLIF is Met-Gln-Cys-Asn-Ser (SEQ ID NO:1).
US08343919B2
The present invention includes a method of utilizing four peptide hormones to inhibit the growth of cancer(s). A dramatic decrease in the number of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells (i.e., the type of cancer with the highest mortality, with patients only surviving four months) was observed responsive to treatment. The application of the invention would be to utilize one or more of these peptide hormones alone and/or in combination to treat cancer. The ability of these peptide hormones to decrease the number of adenocarcinoma cells has implications for adenocarcinomas at other sites in the body with the majority of cancers of the breast, colon and prostate also being adenocarcinomas. Adenocarcinomas also occur in the lung and other tissues. Treatment of a wide variety of cancers in addition to adenocarcinomas is anticipated by the present invention.
US08343913B1
A method of reducing antifungal drug resistance in which Hsp inhibitors, such as Hsp90 inhibitors, are used.
US08343902B2
The methods and compositions of this invention relate to compositions having low irritation characteristics in combination with one or more additional characteristics, for example, relatively high clarity, relatively high foaming, and/or combinations thereof, as well as methods of making and using such compositions. These compositions have low pH values and are useful in cleansing the skin.
US08343901B2
Multi-functional additives which impart improved antioxidancy to lubricating oil compositions and frictional properties resulting in improved fuel economy in an internal combustion engine are disclosed. More particularly disclosed are lubricating oil compositions for internal combustion engines comprising a) a major amount of an oil of lubricating viscosity; and b) a minor amount of an oil soluble hydroxylated amine salt of a hindered phenolic acid, said salt having the general formula I: wherein A and Q are each independently C2-C6 alkylene group; R is methyl, alkyl or alkenyl group having C2-C24 carbon atoms; Y is hydrogen, C1-C6 alkyl group or A-OH; x is an integer of 1 or 2; and z is an integer of 0 or 1.
US08343898B2
The present disclosure generally relates to a method for lubricating conveyors using lubricant compositions with oil in water emulsions. The emulsion can be a lipophilic compound and an emulsifier. In an embodiment, the method includes applying a lubricant composition to the articulating chain and pin joint of the chain of a conveyor wherein the conveyor transports objects weighing more than about 15 kilograms, and the lubricant composition comprises an oil in water emulsion where at least one oil is not a silicone compound.
US08343894B2
Fluid systems may contain elements to provide changes in bulk fluid density in response to various environmental conditions. One environmental driver to the variable density is pressure; other environmental drivers include, but are not limited to, temperature or changes in chemistry. The variable density of the fluid is beneficial for controlling sub-surface pressures within desirable pore pressure and fracture gradient envelopes. The variability of fluid density permits construction and operation of a wellbore with much longer hole sections than when using conventional single gradient fluids.
US08343887B2
A catalyst precursor composition and methods for making such catalyst precursor is disclosed. In one embodiment, the catalyst precursor is of the general formula Av[(MP)(OH)x(L)ny]z(MVIBO4), wherein MP is selected from Group VIII, Group IIB, Group IIA, Group IVA and combinations thereof; L is one or more oxygen-containing ligands, and L has a neutral or negative charge n<=0, MVIB is at least a Group VIB metal having an oxidation state of +6; MP:MVIB has an atomic ratio between 100:1 and 1:100; v−2+P*z−x*z+n*y*z=0; and 0≦y≦−P/n; 0≦x≦P; 0≦v≦2; 0≦z. In one embodiment, the catalyst precursor further comprises a cellulose-containing material. In another embodiment, the catalyst precursor further comprises at least a diluent (binder). In one embodiment, the diluent is a magnesium aluminosilicate clay.
US08343885B2
Extruded isomerization catalysts comprising MgO, a metal silicate clay binder and a stabilizer and methods of forming such isomerization catalysts are disclosed. Also disclosed are isomerization catalysts that exhibit a fresh isomerization rate and an aged isomerization rate that is at least 50% of the fresh isomerization rate. Embodiments of the isomerization catalysts disclosed herein include metal silicate clay binders that include a layered structure and metal silicate. The metal silicate clay binder may be present in an amount in the range from about 5 wt % to about 20 wt %. Exemplary stabilizers include one or more of ZrO2, tetravalent rare earth metal and a trivalent rare earth metal. Stabilizers may be present in an amount up to about 40 wt %. One or more improved properties, such as piece crush strength and isomerization performance, are exhibited by the catalyst article.
US08343882B2
A consumer scrubbing wipe article is disclosed that includes a nonwoven substrate and a texture layer. The nonwoven substrate has a dry basis weight of less than about 300 g/m2. A non-crosslinked, abrasive resin-based texture layer is printed onto at least one surface of the substrate such that the texture layer extends at least 50 microns outwardly beyond the substrate surface upon coalescing. The texture layer bonds to the surface of the substrate via coalescing, and includes resin characterized as independently imparting a scrubbyness attribute to the article upon coalescing.
US08343881B2
A silicon dioxide layer is deposited onto a substrate using a process gas comprising BDEAS and an oxygen-containing gas such as ozone. The silicon dioxide layer can be part of an etch-resistant stack that includes a resist layer. In another version, the silicon dioxide layer is deposited into through holes to form an oxide liner for through-silicon vias.
US08343880B2
A process for forming a zeolite beta dielectric layer onto a substrate such as a silicon wafer has been developed. The zeolite beta is characterized in that it has an aluminum concentration from about 0.1 to about 2.0 wt. %, and has crystallites from about 5 to about 40 nanometers. The process involves first dealuminating a starting zeolite beta, then preparing a slurry of the dealuminated zeolite beta followed by coating a substrate, e.g. silicon wafer with the slurry, heating to form a zeolite beta film and treating the zeolite beta with a silylating agent.
US08343879B2
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes forming an isolation layer which defines an active region in a substrate, forming recess patterns in the active region and the isolation layer, baking a surface of the recess pattern by conducting an annealing process and forming a gate dielectric layer over a surface of the recess pattern by conducting an oxidation process.
US08343878B2
A method of plasma etching Ga-based compound semiconductors includes providing a process chamber and a source electrode adjacent thereto. The chamber contains a Ga-based compound semiconductor sample in contact with a platen which is electrically connected to a first power supply, and the source electrode is electrically connected to a second power supply. SiCl4 and Ar gases are flowed into the chamber. RF power is supplied to the platen at a first power level, and RF power is supplied to the source electrode. A plasma is generated. Then, RF power is supplied to the platen at a second power level lower than the first power level and no greater than about 30 W. Regions of a surface of the sample adjacent to one or more masked portions of the surface are etched at a rate of no more than about 25 nm/min to create a substantially smooth etched surface.
US08343874B2
In a semiconductor device manufacturing method, on a film to be processed, a mask material film is formed which has pattern openings for a plurality of contact patterns and connection openings for connecting adjacent pattern openings in such a manner that the connection between them is constricted in the middle. Then, a sidewall film is formed on the sidewalls of the individual openings in the mask material film, thereby not only making the diameter of the pattern openings smaller but also separating adjacent pattern openings. Then, the film to be processed is selectively etched with the mask material film and sidewall film as a mask, thereby making contact holes.
US08343862B2
Embodiments discussed herein relate to processes of producing a field stop zone within a semiconductor substrate by implanting dopant atoms into the substrate to form a field stop zone between a channel region and a surface of the substrate, at least some of the dopant atoms having energy levels of at least 0.15 eV below the energy level of the conduction band edge of semiconductor substrate; and laser annealing the field stop zone.
US08343853B2
A method of processing a semiconductor wafer includes preheating the wafer to a preheating temperature that is less than a peak temperature, heating the wafer from the preheating temperature to the peak temperature at a first ramp rate that averages about 100° C. per second or more, and, immediately after heating the wafer from the preheating temperature to the peak temperature, cooling the wafer at a second ramp rate that averages about −70° C. per second or more from the peak temperature to the preheating temperature, wherein the peak temperature is about 1,100° C. or more.
US08343851B2
A wafer temporary bonding method using silicon direct bonding (SDB) may include preparing a carrier wafer and a device wafer, adjusting roughness of a surface of the carrier wafer, and combining the carrier wafer and the device wafer using the SDB. Because the method uses SDB, instead of an adhesive layer, for a temporary bonding process, a module or process to generate and remove an adhesive is unnecessary. Also, a defect in a subsequent process, for example, a back-grinding process, due to irregularity of the adhesive may be prevented.
US08343847B2
To prevent, in the case of irradiating a single crystal semiconductor layer with a laser beam, an impurity element from being taken into the single crystal semiconductor layer at the time of laser irradiation. In a manufacturing method of an SOI substrate, a single crystal semiconductor substrate and a base substrate are prepared; an embrittlement region is formed in a region at a predetermined depth from a surface of the single crystal semiconductor substrate by irradiating the single crystal semiconductor substrate with accelerated ions; the single crystal semiconductor substrate and a base substrate are bonded to each other with an insulating layer interposed therebetween; a single crystal semiconductor layer is formed over the base substrate with the insulating layer interposed therebetween by heating the single crystal semiconductor substrate to cause separation using the embrittlement region as a boundary; an oxide film formed on the single crystal semiconductor layer is removed; and at least a surface of the single crystal semiconductor layer is melted by irradiating the surface of the single crystal semiconductor layer with a laser beam after the removal of the oxide film. The number of times the single crystal semiconductor layer is melted by the irradiation with the laser beam is one.
US08343846B2
A method of forming isolation layer in a semiconductor device, comprising forming a trench on an isolation region of a semiconductor substrate by etching utilizing an isolation mask; forming a first insulating layer on a lower portion of the trench; forming a second insulating layer on the semiconductor substrate including the first insulating layer; etching the second insulating layer to increase an aspect ratio on the isolation region; and forming a third insulating layer on a peripheral region of the second insulating layer to fill moats formed on the second insulating layer with the third insulating layer.
US08343843B2
Provided are a monolithic microwave integrated circuit device and a method for forming the same. The method include: forming an HBT on a substrate; forming a wiring of the HBT and a bottom electrode of a capacitor on the substrate, with a first metal, the bottom electrode being spaced apart from the HBT; forming a first insulation layer on the substrate to cover the HBT and the bottom electrode; and forming a top electrode of the capacitor on the first insulation layer and forming a resistance pattern on the substrate, with a second metal, the resistance pattern being spaced apart from the capacitor, wherein an edge of the top electrode is spaced apart from an edge of the bottom electrode.
US08343842B2
A semiconductor process and apparatus to provide a way to reduce plasma-induced damage by applying a patterned layer of photoresist which includes resist openings formed over the active circuit areas as well as additional resist openings formed over inactive areas in order to maintain the threshold coverage level to control the amount of resist coverage over a semiconductor structure so that the total amount of resist coverage is at or below a threshold coverage level. Where additional resist openings are required in order to maintain the threshold coverage level, these openings may be used to create additional charge dissipation structures for use in manufacturing the final structure.
US08343827B2
In a CMIS device, to improve the operating characteristics of an n-channel electric field transistor that is formed by using a strained silicon technique, without degrading the operating characteristics of a p-channel field effect transistor. After forming a source/drain (an n-type extension region and an n-type diffusion region) of an nMIS and a source/drain (a p-type extension region and a p-type diffusion region) of a pMIS, the each source/drain having a desired concentration profile and resistance, a Si:C layer having a desired amount of strain is formed in the n-type diffusion region, and thus the optimum parasitic resistance and the optimum amount of strain in the Si:C layer are obtained in the source/drain of the nMIS. Moreover, by performing a heat treatment in forming the Si:C layer in a short time equal to or shorter than 1 millisecond, a change in the concentration profile of the respective p-type impurities of the already-formed p-type extension region and p-type diffusion region is suppressed.
US08343824B2
Gallium nitride material devices and related processes are described. In some embodiments, an N-face of the gallium nitride material region is exposed by removing an underlying region.
US08343812B2
On embodiment of a contact structure may include a lower insulation layer on a lower substrate, an upper substrate on the lower insulation layer, a groove penetrating the upper substrate to extend into the lower insulation layer, the groove below an interface between the upper substrate and the lower insulation layer, an upper insulation layer in the groove, and a contact plug penetrating the upper insulation layer in the groove to extend into the lower insulation layer.
US08343806B2
A method for forming an integrated circuit includes transforming at least a portion of a first substrate layer to form a conductive region within the first substrate layer. An integrated circuit device is provided proximate an outer surface of the first substrate layer. The integrated circuit device transmits or receives electrical signals through the conductive region. A second substrate layer is disposed proximate to the outer surface of the first substrate layer to enclose the integrated circuit device in a hermetic environment.
US08343804B2
A method and structure are provided for implementing multiple different types of dies for memory stacking. A common wafer is provided with a predefined reticle type. The reticle type includes a plurality of arrays, and a plurality of periphery segments. A plurality of through-silicon-vias (TSVs) is placed at boundaries between array and periphery segments. Multiple different types of dies for memory stacking are obtained based upon selected scribing of the dies from the common wafer.
US08343798B2
A method of fabricating a phase change memory having a unit memory cell is described. The unit memory cell includes a phase change element connected to a corresponding vertical cell diode. The phase change element is formed from a phase change material layer formed on an interlayer dielectric layer including a via hole, and etched using a plasma formed from a plasma gas having a molecular weight of 17 or less to form a respective phase change material pattern in the via hole.
US08343794B2
A method is provided for producing a hybrid multi junction photovoltaic device. The method begins by providing a plurality of planar photovoltaic semi-transparent modules. Each of the modules is a fully functional, thin-film, photovoltaic device and includes first and second conductive layers and at least first and second semiconductor layers disposed between the conductive layers. The first and second semiconductor layers define a junction at an interface therebetween. The method continues by disposing the modules one on top of another and hybridly adhering them to each other. At least one of the modules is configured to convert a first spectral portion of optical energy into an electrical voltage and transmit a second spectral portion of optical energy to another of the junctions that is configured to convert at least part of the second spectral portion of optical energy into an electrical voltage.
US08343792B2
An improved method for manufacturing a lateral germanium detector is disclosed. A detector window is opened through an oxide layer to expose a doped single crystalline silicon layer situated on a substrate. Next, a single crystal germanium layer is grown within the detector window, and an amorphous germanium layer is grown on the oxide layer. The amorphous germanium layer is then polished to leave only a small portion around the single crystal germanium layer. A dielectric layer is deposited on the amorphous germanium layer and the single crystal germanium layer. Using resist masks and ion implants, multiple doped regions are formed on the single crystal germanium layer. After opening several oxide windows on the dielectric layer, a refractory metal layer is deposited on the doped regions to form multiple germanide layers.
US08343791B2
A method for forming through features in a substrate uses a seed layer deposited over a first substrate, and a second substrate bonded to the seed layer. The features may be formed in the first substrate, by plating a conductive filler material onto the seed layer. The first substrate and the second substrate may then be bonded to a third substrate, and the second substrate is removed, leaving through features and first substrate adhered to the third substrate. The through features may provide at least one of electrical access and motion to a plurality of devices formed on the third substrate, or may impart movement to a moveable feature on the first substrate, wherein the third substrate supports the first substrate after removal of the second substrate.
US08343790B2
Many inventions are disclosed. Some aspects are directed to MEMS, and/or methods for use with and/or for fabricating MEMS, that supply, store, and/or trap charge on a mechanical structure disposed in a chamber. Various structures may be disposed in the chamber and employed in supplying, storing and/or trapping charge on the mechanical structure. In some aspects, a breakable link, a thermionic electron source and/or a movable mechanical structure are employed. The breakable link may comprise a fuse. In one embodiment, the movable mechanical structure is driven to resonate. In some aspects, the electrical charge enables a transducer to convert vibrational energy to electrical energy, which may be used to power circuit(s), device(s) and/or other purpose(s). In some aspects, the electrical charge is employed in changing the resonant frequency of a mechanical structure and/or generating an electrostatic force, which may be repulsive.
US08343787B2
A method of fabricating an LCD device is discussed. The method in one embodiment includes: forming a gate electrode and a gate pad on a substrate, which is defined into a display area corresponding to pixel regions and a non-display area corresponding to pad regions, through a first mask process; sequentially stacking a gate insulation film, an amorphous silicon layer, an impurity-doped amorphous silicon layer and a metal film on the substrate provided with the gate electrode and then forming an active layer, source/drain electrode and a data line through a second mask process which uses one of half-tone and diffraction masks; and forming a transparent conductive material on the substrate provided with the source/drain electrode and forming a pixel electrode through a third mask process.
US08343775B2
The present invention provides a method and device for the improvement of intraplexed assays. This improvement is based upon the use of multiple assay chemistries having different affinity constants (KA) for an analyte. The overall assay displays high precision and predictable behavior because ratios between SMPCS-IDGs having different affinity constants (KA) change based on concentration. The advantages of the Applicant's improved system relative to the system of the '290 patent are that the improved system (1) further increases the statistical significance of results from assays applied to single well samples, (2) improves compensation for multiple sources of error, (3) makes possible further increased precision for each analyte, and (4) improves correlation between instruments, even if the instruments have significantly varying responses to an identical stimulus, (4) makes possible improved determination of a margin of error.
US08343774B2
An analytical apparatus includes a sample-injection valve, a sample pump, at least two sources of standards, and a selection valve. The sample-injection valve has an output port in fluid communication with a LC column, and an input port in fluid communication with a mobile-phase supply line. The at least two sources of standards are associated with at least two pharmaceutical compounds. The selection valve fluidically and selectably connects the sample pump to the at least two sources of standards, to the sample-injection valve, and to at least two pharmaceutical-manufacturing process lines associated with the at least two pharmaceutical compounds. A method for controlling a pharmaceutical manufacturing process includes switching the selection valve to alternately and repeatedly sample the at least two sources of standards and material flowing through the at least two pharmaceutical-manufacturing process lines.
US08343771B2
Measuring the concentration of an analyte in an aqueous solution by obtaining an aqueous solution containing an analyte, providing a cyanine indicator, placing the aqueous solution in fluid communication with the cyanine indicator, measuring a detectable property change of the cyanine indicator, and comparing the detectable property change of the cyanine indicator with a calibration curve of the detectable property change of samples containing known concentrations of the analyte. The concentration of the analyte is determined using the detectable property change that is proportional to the concentration of the analyte in the aqueous solution.
US08343762B2
Methods of generating and expanding proliferative, multipotent connective tissue progenitor cells from embryonic stem cells and embryoid bodies are provided. Also provided are methods of generating functional tendon grafts in vitro and bone, cartilage and connective tissues in vivo using the isolated cell preparation of connective tissue progenitor cells.
US08343761B2
An objective of the present invention is to facilitate the acquisition of antibody-producing cells that are infiltrating virus-infected cells, cancer cells, abnormal cells forming a benign hyperplasia, and the like, and to improve the efficiency of the production of antibodies as well as nucleic acids encoding them from the antibody-producing cells.The present inventors discovered that, when cancer tissues comprising infiltrating lymphocytes are transplanted into highly immunodeficient animals that do not have T cells, B cells, and NK cells and further exhibit a low IFN production ability, the differentiation and proliferation of infiltrating lymphocytes are unexpectedly promoted, and the number of plasma cells that produce antibodies recognizing cancer tissues increases dramatically, plasma cells can be separated easily, and antibodies or nucleic acids encoding them can be easily prepared from the plasma cells.
US08343753B2
The present invention provides compositions, methods, and kits comprising PUFAs produced by microalgae, in particular omega-3 and/or omega-6 fatty acids produced by members of the genus Rhodomonas, in particular Rhodomonas salina. The invention also provides compositions, methods, and kits comprising the PUFAs for the prophylactic and/or therapeutic treatment of a disease or condition, in particular a cardiovascular and/or inflammatory disease or condition.
US08343737B2
The present invention provides cell culture compositions capable of producing fusion polypeptides that bind vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The cell culture compositions of the invention comprise cells which contain an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid molecule encoding a fusion polypeptide that binds VEGF. The fusion polypeptides may comprise a VEGF receptor component having an immunoglobulin-like (Ig) domain 2 of a first VEGF receptor, an Ig domain 3 of a second VEGF receptor, and a multimerizing component.
US08343731B2
Chemiluminescent detection of metabolic by-products of inosine and hypoxanthine is used to diagnose ischemic events such as early acute cardiac ischemia.
US08343730B2
A method is provided for determining in real time the course of proteolytic, e.g., thrombin activity, in a sample of clotting blood or plasma. By frequent mixing of a sample, clot formation may be controlled in a dense manner such that the majority of the sample remains fluid. This will inhibit cell precipitation and allow for informative monitoring as signal substrate is added.
US08343728B2
The invention provides methods, compositions, kits, and systems for the sensitive detection of cardiac troponin. Such methods, compositions, kits, and systems are useful in diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of methods of treatment in conditions that involve release of cardiac troponin.
US08343724B2
A circular DNA is provided comprising endogenous DNA common to both genetically modified wheat and non-genetically modified wheat along with one or more pieces of DNA each having a sequence present specifically in a strain of genetically modified wheat. Also provided is a method for determining a mix rate of genetically modified wheat in a test sample.
US08343717B2
Tissue matrices having anti-microbial properties are provided. In certain embodiments, the tissue matrices include cationic anti-microbial agents that form a stable bond with the tissue matrices without adversely affecting the biologic properties of the tissue matrices.
US08343712B2
A method for manufacturing an inkjet recording includes forming a photo-cationic polymerizable resin layer containing a photo-cationic polymerizable resin material on a substrate; performing pattern exposure of the photo-cationic polymerizable resin layer to form a latent image of a fine pattern including an ejection port; forming a water repellent layer containing a water repellent material capable of forming a bond in reaction with the photo-cationic polymerizable resin material on the photo-cationic polymerizable resin layer; developing the photo-cationic polymerizable resin layer to thereby remove a non-exposed portion of the photo-cationic polymerizable resin layer and remove a water repellent layer portion corresponding to the non-exposed portion to thereby form the fine pattern; and curing the photo-cationic polymerizable resin layer by heat treatment to form a member provided with the fine pattern and promote a reaction of the photo-cationic polymerizable resin material and the water repellent material.
US08343707B2
A printing plate having a substrate and a radiation sensitive, negative working, organic, polymerizable, photosensitive (PS) resin coating non-ionically adhered to the substrate such that the cohesion of the PS coating exceeds the adhesion of the PS coating to the substrate. The PS coating contains active components that participate in radiation induced polymerization, all of which active components are soluble in non-aqueous solvents and none of which active components are soluble or dispersible in any of the group of fluids consisting of water, fountain solution, ink, and press ink. The PS coating has sufficient cohesion and surface tack to adhere to and be mechanically pulled off the substrate by press ink as particulates without dissolution or dispersion into the press ink.
US08343696B2
A colored curable composition contains a dipyrromethene metal complex compound formed from a fluorine-containing dipyrromethene compound represented by Formula (1) and a metal or metal compound. (R1 to R7: H or substituent (at least one of R1 to R7 includes a substituent represented by Formula (2)); Rg: H or substituent; a ≧1; Rf: a fluorine atom, fluorine-containing alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, fluorine-containing aryl group, fluorine-containing alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, fluorine-containing alkylsulfonamido group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or fluorine-containing arylsulfonamido group; m: 1 to 5; n: 0 to 4; L: single bond, O, S, NH, R—NH(R: alkylene), —Ar—NH— (Ar: arylene), CO, COO, OCO, *COS, *SCO, *CONH, *NHCO, *NHSO2, SO, SO2, *SO2NH, an alkylene chain having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or arylene group.)
US08343691B2
The present invention provides a hologram recording material which is not required to be subjected to pre-exposure treatment at the time of recording, attains high refractive index change, high sensitivity, low scattering, environment resistance, durability, low dimensional change, and high multiplicity, and is suitable for volume hologram recording. Also, the present invention provides a hologram recording medium. A hologram recording material comprising a matrix material having a softening temperature of 50° C. or higher, and a photopolymerizable monomer which is in a liquid phase state at room temperature. The matrix material is preferably contained in an amount of 50% by weight or more and 90% by weight or less of the whole of the hologram recording material. A softening temperature of the hologram recording material is preferably 0° C. or higher.
US08343679B2
While the operation of a fuel cell is stopped, a pressure decrease caused by a current sweep is suppressed from being misjudged as being the occurrence of a hydrogen leak or a cross leak, and the judgment accuracy of the hydrogen leak, etc. is improved. In order to realize this feature, during an intermittent operation, in which, when a load on the fuel cell system is low, electrical power is supplied from a power storage unit in the fuel cell system to a power-consuming apparatus and power generation of a fuel cell is temporarily stopped, in the situation where a current sweep for suppressing a degradation of the fuel cell is performed, a hydrogen pressure in an anode of the fuel cell is corrected based on hydrogen consumed by the current sweep, and a hydrogen leak judgment based on a pressure decrease or a cross leak judgment based on a pressure decrease is performed on the basis of the corrected hydrogen pressure. For example, a pressure decrease speed of the hydrogen pressure in the anode which decreases due to power generation in the current sweep is integrated to obtain the amount of hydrogen pressure decrease caused by the power generation; and the amount of hydrogen pressure decrease can be reflected.
US08343672B2
A catalyst coated electrolyte membrane including an anode catalyst layer and a cathode catalyst layer at opposite sides thereof, respectively, wherein micro cracks of the anode catalyst layer or cathode catalyst layer occupy 0.01-1 area % of the total area of the respective anode catalyst layer or cathode catalyst layer, a fuel cell including the same, and a method of preparing the catalyst coated electrolyte membrane. In the catalyst coated electrolyte membrane, micro cracks of the cathode catalyst layer or the anode catalyst layer can be minimized and thus the resistance between the electrode catalyst layer and an electrolyte membrane can be minimized, and crossover of a fuel, such as methanol, ethanol, other alcohols, methane, etc., to a cathode electrode can be minimized, and thus the catalyst coated electrolyte membrane has improved performance and durability.
US08343670B2
The use extender device (100) and method (700) thereof is provided, wherein the device (100) includes a housing (102) with a top cover (108) having a back side wall, front side wall, and lateral side walls. The device (100) further includes a bottom cover (106) operably attached to the top cover (108), and a battery cavity (130). The housing (102) can also include a circuit board cavity (116) defined by at least one of the top cover (108) and the bottom cover (106), a closing mechanism (114) attached to the top cover (108) and removably attaching the top cover (108) to the bottom cover (106), such that the battery cavity (130) is accessible, and at least one aperture (110) defined by at least one of the top cover (108) and bottom cover (106), wherein air flow into the battery cavity (130) is regulated by the aperture (110).
US08343667B2
A nonaqueous electrolyte battery includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a nonaqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode contains a lithium compound and a negative electrode current collector supporting the lithium compound. A log differential intrusion curve obtained when a pore size diameter of the negative electrode is measured by mercury porosimetry has a peak in a pore size diameter range of 0.03 to 0.2 μm and attenuates with a decrease in pore size diameter from an apex of the peak. A specific surface area (excluding a weight of the negative electrode current collector) of pores of the negative electrode found by mercury porosimetry is 6 to 100 m2/g. A ratio of a volume of pores having a pore size diameter of 0.05 μm or less to a total pore volume is 20% or more.
US08343662B2
A nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery in which a lithium transition metal complex oxide containing at least Ni and Mn as transition metals and having a layered structure is used as a positive active material, the lithium transition metal complex oxide containing at least Ni and Mn as transition metals and having a layered structure further containing zirconium.
US08343658B2
A positive electrode 2 and a negative electrode 3 are contained in a battery case 1 with a separator 4 interposed therebetween. The positive electrode 2 contains manganese dioxide and an alkaline electrolyte, and the negative electrode 3 is a gelled negative electrode containing zinc powder, a gelling agent, and an alkaline electrolyte. The zinc powder contains 15% by mass or higher of fine powder with a particle size smaller than 200 mesh, and 10 to 35% by mass of coarse powder with a particle size of 20 to 80 mesh, and has a specific surface area in the range of 0.025 to 0.080 m2/g.
US08343651B2
A battery pack includes a plurality of secondary batteries fixed in a frame to be enclosed by an outer frame. The battery pack includes at least first and second battery cells having an electrode terminal and a frame surrounding a periphery of the first and second battery cells. The frame has at least one opening corresponding to the electrode terminal of the first and second battery cells.
US08343644B2
A medical device having a battery pack comprising an indicator, wherein the battery pack indicator indicates the status of the battery pack when the battery pack is disassociated from the medical device and indicates the status of the medical device when associated with the medical device.
US08343635B2
Provided is a multi-layered sheet which has undergone heating corresponding to brazing, such as an aluminum-alloy radiator tube, or a multi-layered sheet such as an aluminum-alloy brazing sheet. The multi-layered sheet can have a reduced thickness and has excellent fatigue properties. The multi-layered sheet of aluminum alloys comprises a core layer (2) which has been clad at least with a sacrificial layer (3). This multi-layered sheet is a multi-layered sheet to be subjected to brazing or welding to produce a heat exchanger or is a multi-layered sheet which has undergone heating corresponding to brazing. The core layer (2) comprises a specific 3000-series composition. In this core layer (2), the average density in number of dispersed particles having a specific size has been regulated. As a result, fatigue properties, which govern cracking, can be highly improved.
US08343627B2
The present invention is directed toward core-shell nanoparticles, each comprising a ligand-capped metal shell surrounding a plurality of discrete, nonconcentric, metal-containing cores. Methods of making and using these nanoparticles are also disclosed.
US08343620B2
An α-Al2O3 coated cutting tool insert combining a cemented carbide with a binder phase enriched surface zone and a textured α-Al2O3-layer is disclosed. The α-Al2O3 layer has a thickness ranging from about 2-9 μm and is composed of columnar grains having a length/width ratio from about 2-12. It is characterized by a strong (104) growth texture and by low intensity of the (012), (110) and (113) diffraction peaks. The textured α-Al2O3 is preferably deposited on an MTCVD Ti(C,N) layer having a thickness from about 2-10 μm. When the alumina layer is the uppermost layer, it may be wet-blasted to an Ra value of
US08343618B2
A silicon wafer in which both occurrences of slip dislocation and warpage are suppressed in device manufacturing processes is a silicon wafer having BMDs having an octahedral shape, wherein BMDs located at a position below the silicon wafer surface to a depth of 20 μm and having a diagonal length of 200 nm or more are present at a concentration of ≦2×109/cm3, and BMDs located at a position below a depth ≧50 μm have a diagonal length of ≧10 nm to ≦50 nm and a concentration of ≧1×1012/cm3.
US08343609B2
A knitted spacer fabric having a tightly knitted bottom layer, a more loosely knitted upper layer and linking fibres extending across the space between the lower and upper faces. Settable material, e.g. cement, is introduced into the space between the upper and lower faces and can be caused to set by the addition of a liquid, e.g. water. Until set, the fabric is flexible and can be shaped but after the material in space has set, the fabric is rigid and can be used as a structural element in a wide range of situations. The bottom layer has an extension that extends beyond the upper face and is connected to the upper face by elastic connecting fibres that draw the extension towards the other face, thereby at least partly closing the space at the edge of the cloth and preventing the settable material from spilling out.
US08343608B2
The present disclosure relates to optical media and the formation and use of such media. In certain embodiments the optical media or a composition suitable for such media includes a polymeric matrix or substrate. A dye, such as an energy transfer dye is chemically appended to the polymeric matrix or substrate, such as by one or more covalent bonds.
US08343606B2
Provided herein are protective laminate devices comprising a biocompatible non-adherent substance and a fast-setting adhesive and methods of use. Also provided is a dispenser for an adhesive tape. The protective laminate devices and methods may be used for wound closure.
US08343594B2
A film formation apparatus for a semiconductor process includes a process gas supply system configured to supply process gases. The process gas supply system includes a gas mixture tank configured to mix first and third process gases to form a mixture gas, a mixture gas supply line configured to supply the mixture gas from the gas mixture tank to a process field, a second process gas supply circuit having a second process gas supply line configured to supply a second process gas to the process field without passing through the gas mixture tank, and first and second switching valves disposed on the mixture gas supply line and the second process gas supply line, respectively. A control section controls the first and second switching valves to be opened and closed so as to alternately and pulse-wise supply the mixture gas and the second process gas to the process field.
US08343593B2
A method of coating at least one exterior surface of at least one workpiece is disclosed. The method may be used for coating inner and outer surfaces of pipes. A hollow workpiece is positioned within a chamber. A spacing between a multi-dimensional interior surface of the chamber and an exterior surface of the workpiece is fixed. Conditions are established to maintain a hollow cathode effect within the spacing and within the hollow workpiece. The conditions include biasing anodes at opposite ends of a hollow cathode effect region, and biasing the interior surface of the chamber and the workpiece as cathodes. The interior surface and the workpiece may be maintained at a common bias voltage or, in at least one embodiment, at differing voltages.
US08343582B2
A method for depositing a non-oxide ceramic-type coating based on chrome carbides, nitrides or carbonitrides, by DLI-CVD at low temperature and atmospheric pressure on a metallic substrate, includes: a) a solution is prepared, containing a molecular compound which is a precursor of the metal to be deposited, belongs to the bis(arene) family, and has a decomposition temperature of 300° C.-550° C., the compound being dissolved in an oxygen atom depleted solvent; b) the solution is introduced as aerosol into a heated evaporator at a temperature between the solvent boiling temperature and the precursor decomposition temperature; and c) the precursor and the vaporized solvent are driven from the evaporator towards a CVD reactor having cold walls, with a susceptor carrying the substrate to be covered and heated to a temperature higher than the decomposition temperature of the precursor, to a maximum of 550° C., the evaporator and the CVD reactor being at atmospheric pressure.
US08343564B2
The invention relates to baked potatoes and, particularly, to convenient forms of baked potatoes having an optimally-baked flavor and texture which can be simply prepared for serving in any size portion with a minimum of effort. In one preferred form, the product will be in the form of baked potato pieces with the skin attached, preferably having a moisture content of from about 70 to about 75% and flavor and texture profiles characteristic of optimally baked potatoes. A process and an apparatus for preparing the potatoes and a packaged form are also provided. The process calls for freezing a baked potato and subdividing the potato into discrete pieces of a size of from about 0.5 to about 1.5 inches, preferably by means comprising at least one roller pair comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted blades with cutting edges angularly offset (FIG. 7) or diagonally-opposed, spaced cutting blades (FIG. 7).
US08343561B2
Provided is a package for cooking in a microwave oven, in which a synthetic resin container body having a flange part is filled with contents and a lid is heat-sealed to the flange part to seal the package hermetically. Independent concave parts sandwiching a heat-sealed part are provided in a part of the flange part on the inner and outer sides of the heat-sealed part to form, on the heat-sealed part, a projection part directed to the inner direction of the container and serving as a steam releasing part by automatically opening. The package is prevented from being broken or deformed by preventing the heat-sealed part from being peeled immediately after the contents are placed in the container body. When heating cooking is performed in a microwave oven, the package improves the taste of the contents by the steaming effect. The lid is sure to automatically open by the increase of the pressure in the container.
US08343555B2
The present invention relates to a composition and method for treating or preventing white spot syndrome virus of arthropod. The present invention is based on using Artemisia japonica extract, and preferably, a mixture of Artemisia japonica extract and Saururus chinensis extract as effective agent. More preferably, the present invention provides a composition for treating or preventing white spot syndrome virus, comprising Artemisia japonica extract and Saururus chinensis extract which are coated by a polymer. The present invention also provides a method for treating or preventing white spot syndrome virus of arthropod, using Artemisia japonica extract and Saururus chinensis extract which are coated by a polymer.
US08343553B2
A Mobile Extractor for extracting essential elements from plant material and for transporting low concentrations of essential elements in a solution of solvent includes a clean tank, a hopper, one or more pumps, a plurality of valves, and a dirty tank. Plant material may be soaked or rinsed with a solvent that extracts essential elements from the plant material where the solvent washes the essential elements from the plant material into a dirty tank. When the operation is complete the dirty tank will contain a solution of solvent infused with essential elements from the plant material. The best mode of the invention extracts cannabinoid or cannabis related essential elements from raw cannabis plant material and stores it in a solvent bath. The best mode pump or pumps used is one or more vacuum pumps.
US08343552B2
Methods of and compositions for producing and using plant-based materials are provided. The methods include using biopolymers or their synthetic equivalents combined with a stable source of reactive oxygen species that when applied to or combined with a separate source of oxido-reducing enzyme or catalyst will cause the formation of an activated biopolymer with increased protein binding affinity and microbial control activities.
US08343546B2
The present invention provides a method and composition are provided that includes an ion exchange resin treated with from between about 0.01 to about 10 percent by weight of one or more sugar alcohols in contact with one or more ionic pharmaceutically active drug.
US08343544B2
(Object) An oral sustained-release tablet is provided, which does not cause initial rapid increases in the bloodlevels of 4-(2-methyl-1-imidazolyl)-2,2-diphenylbutylamide (KRP-197) and can maintain constant the blood levels.(Solving means) An oral sustained-release tablet comprises a pharmaceutical composition and a gel-forming material, the pharmaceutical composition containing KRP-197 as an active ingredient.
US08343540B2
The invention provides processes using suspensions to produce fenofibrate compositions. The resulting fenofibrate compositions can be made in the form of a capsule.
US08343532B2
A lozenge is provided that has stable pH and stable levels of active ingredient over time. It comprises a combination of (i) at least one gum and (ii) at least one non-crystallising sugar or non-crystallising sugar alcohol in a matrix designed for controlled buccal delivery of a drug. The lozenge also contains water and optional components selected from flavorings, taste masking agents, colorings, buffer components, pH adjusting agents, excipients, stabilizers and sweeteners. Methods of preparing the lozenge are also provided.
US08343530B2
Implantable medical devices fabricated from polymer/bioceramic composites and polymer blend/bioceramic composites are disclosed.
US08343528B2
This invention is related to the use of polyurethane based polymer as a drug delivery device to deliver biologically active compounds at a constant rate for an extended period of time and methods of manufactures thereof. The device is very biocompatible and biostable, and is useful as an implant in patients (humans and animals) for the delivery of appropriate bioactive substances to tissues or organs. The drug delivery device for releasing one or more drugs at controlled rates for an extended period of time to produce local or systemic pharmacological effects comprises: 1. a reservoir, said reservoir comprising; 2. at least one active ingredient; and, optionally, 3. at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; a polyurethane based polymer completely surrounding the reservoir.
US08343524B2
Provided are cap layer compositions and base layer compositions, providing quick and extended release of an active ingredient, respectively, when placed in water. Further provided are dual release compositions including a base composition and a cap composition. The base composition may include a plaster and an active agent, and it may further include at least one of a water-soluble binder, a non-water-soluble binder, and a lubricant. The cap composition may include a plaster and an active agent, and it may further include at least one of a disintegrating agent, a non-water-soluble binder, and a lubricant. The compositions may be heated and mixed and formed into a tablet. Further provided are methods of making the compositions. Further provided are methods of controlling or eliminating pests and methods of increasing the potability of water. The compositions are effective for controlling or eliminating pests such as mosquitoes when applied at an application site.
US08343515B2
A perfluorocarbon gel composition is disclosed with numerous uses including topical medical and cosmetic uses.
US08343503B2
Contiguous overlapping peptides (COPs) for the treatment of allergic patients by Specific Immunotherapy (SIT) are provided from the sequence of the major allergen of birch pollen Bet v 1. Such peptides while providing all potential T cell epitopes are devoid of the 3D structure of the original allergen, therefore reducing their ability to bind IgE.
US08343501B2
The present invention relates to bispecific molecules comprising an EGFR binding domain and a distinct IGFIR binding domain for use in diagnostic, research and therapeutic applications. The invention further relates to cells comprising such proteins, polynucleotide encoding such proteins or fragments thereof, and vectors comprising the polynucleotides encoding the innovative proteins. Exemplary bispecific molecules include antibody-like protein dimers based on the tenth fibronectin type III domain.
US08343499B2
The present invention provides methods of selecting and uses of anti-arthropod vector vaccines to prevent Leishmaniasis. The present invention also provides compositions for vaccines to prevent Leishmaniasis.
US08343490B2
The present invention provides an isolated specific binding member capable of binding a sialyltetraosyl carbohydrate and directly inducing cell death without the need for immune effector cells. Such a binding member may be an antibody or a part thereof. Also provided are the use of such binding members in medicine and nucleic acids encoding such binding members.
US08343481B2
A method of preparing a population of in vitro cultured cells of alveolar epithelial type II (ATII) cell lineage derived from at least one embryonic stem cell is disclosed which comprises (a) culturing said at least one embryonic stem cell in vitro in a medium comprising MATRIGEL®, to produce differentiated cells without formation of an embryonic body, wherein at least some of the differentiated cells are of ATII cell phenotype; (b) identifying the differentiated cells of ATII cell phenotype by detecting expression of at least one biomarker of ATII cells; (c) isolating the differentiated cells having ATII cell phenotype; and (d) cloning the isolated cells to produce a population of cells having ATII cell phenotype. The resulting cells are preferably >99% pure ATII phenotype lineage and are potentially useful therapeutically for treating lung injury and disease.
US08343476B2
Homogeneous preparations of IL-28A, IL-28B, and IL-29 have been produced by mutating one or more of the cysteine residues in the polynucleotide sequences encoding the mature proteins. The cysteine mutant proteins can be shown to either bind to their cognate receptor or exhibit biological activity. One type of biological activity that is shown is an antiviral activity.
US08343473B2
A bactericidal or antimicrobial polymeric composition includes a hydrophilic first comonomer copolymerized to a second comonomer to produce a polymeric composition that is more hydrophilic or more bactericidal or antimicrobial in an aqueous solution than either of the comonomers alone. Methods for identifying bactericidal or antimicrobial polymers, methods for rendering materials bactericidal or antimicrobial, and methods for using bactericidal or antimicrobial compositions to kill or reduce bacterial or microbial growth are also described. Applications for the inventive compositions include their use in catheters, stents, medical devices, contact lenses; root canal fillers; fibers; paper; and/or wound dressing.
US08343470B2
The invention relates to a cosmetic preparation that contains (a) at least one surfactant selected from anionic, zwitterionic or amphoteric surfactants, (b) a microemulsion and (c) at least one cationic polymer.
US08343468B2
Human sebum mimetics and methods for producing human sebum mimetics are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a human sebum mimetic comprises a wax ester derived from interesterification of refined botanical oil comprising palmitoleic acid and refined jojoba oil, a phytosterol, and phytosqualene. A method for producing a human sebum mimetic comprises mixing refined macadamia oil and refined jojoba oil, interesterifying the refined macadamia oil and the refined jojoba oil, adding a phytosterol after the interesterifying, and adding phytosqualene after the interesterifying.
US08343463B2
The near-infrared wavelengths (700 nm-900 nm) are a suitable optical window for light penetration and deep tissue imaging. The present invention provides a near-infrared fluorescent blood pool contrast agent. The agent is of use to detect and quantify pathological capillary leak in live animals, e.g., serially imaging of traumatized tissue (muscle) as well as tumors.
US08343446B2
The oxine ligands 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquiniline and 5-sulfoxyl-8-hydroxyquinoline are covalently bound, using, for example, the Mannich reaction, to a silica gel polyamine composite made from a silanized amorphous silica xerogel and polyallylamine. The resulting modified composites, termed CB-1 (X═Cl) and SB-1 (X═SO3H), respectively, show a clear selectivity for trivalent over divalent ions and selectivity for gallium over aluminum. The compounds of the invention can be applied for the sequestration of metals, such as heavy metals, from contaminated mine tailing leachates.
US08343445B2
A solvent based flue gas processing system for removing CO2 from a flue gas stream is provided in which a catalyst coated on a support structure is provided. The catalyst selected is capable of retaining CO2, at least for a period of time, thereby increasing the residence time of CO2 and solvent.
US08343444B2
A device is provided for facilitating preparation of a sample for imaging. The device includes a cartridge having a generally flat, upper surface, a lower surface, an input port extending between the upper and lower surfaces thereof and an output port extending between the upper and lower surfaces thereof. The cartridge includes a first recess in the lower surface thereof having a first end communicating with the input port and a second end communicating with the output port. A cover slip has an upper surface engageable with the lower surface of the cartridge such that a portion of the upper surface of the cover slip communicates with the recess in the lower surface of the recess.
US08343439B2
The present invention provides an assay device for performing an assay on a liquid sample using a detection conjugate capable of binding to an antigen and containing a label, said device comprising a substrate having a substrate surface, wherein the surface comprises projections substantially perpendicular to said surface, said projections having a height, diameter and distance capable of generating lateral capillary flow of a fluid in said passage, said surface comprising a sample addition zone, a reaction zone and an absorbing zone, said zones being connected by at least one fluid passage, wherein said device has a first functionality verifying feature located between the sample addition zone and the reaction zone, and a second functionality verifying feature located within the absorbing zone, and both functionality verifying features being features capable of undergoing a detectable change when contacted by the sample, said assay device further comprising at least one alignment verification zone. There is further provided a kit of parts and a method of conducting an assay.
US08343438B1
An ergonomically designed pipette tip that can be securely mounted to a barrel of a pipetter yet is designed to substantially reduce the axial force necessary to install and eject the pipette tip from the pipetter. An improved pipette tip that includes the addition of an elastomeric material and cooperative means for insuring uniform interference and depth of penetration of the pipetter barrel as successive barrels are inserted and ejected. Also disclosed is an improved multiple-tip configuration with similar features that can be mounted to multiple barrels of a multi-pipetter as one tip instead of 8 or 12 individual tips. The addition of the elastomeric material allows for better sealing and eliminates alignment issues, high installation and ejection requirements while reducing the hand and thumb forces that due to repeated use will sometimes result in repetitive stress injury.
US08343431B2
The honeycomb filter is constructed as a diesel particulate filter having a filtration function for filtering out the particulate matter included in an exhaust emission of a diesel engine. The honeycomb filter has a honeycomb structure as a base and inlet opening cells with surface layers formed on respective inner surfaces thereof. The surface layer has zero film thickness in an inlet peripheral region. Separation vortexes are generated in the inlet peripheral regions. The zero film thickness of the surface layers in the inlet peripheral regions naturally causes non-flaking of the surface layers induced by the separation vortexes generated in the inlet peripheral regions and thereby leads to non-production of flakes. In the non-existent condition of flakes, the overall surface layers are not collapsed by collision of the flakes.
US08343419B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a Ni base alloy solid wire for welding, which has excellent cracking resistance to ductility dip cracking in weld metal, can increase the tensile strength of the weld metal to not less than the tensile strength of the base material, and has excellent weldability. The present invention provides a solid wire which has a composition containing Cr: 27.0 to 31.5 mass %, Ti: 0.50 to 0.90 mass %, Nb: 0.40 to 0.70 mass %, Ta: 0.10 to 0.30 mass %, C: 0.010 to 0.030 mass %, and Fe: 5.0 to 11.0 mass %, and is regulated to Al: 0.10 mass % or less, N: 0.020 mass % or less, Zr 0.005 mass % or less, P:0.010 mass % or less, S: 0.0050 mass % or less, Si: 0.50 mass % or less, and Mn: 1.00 mass % or less, with the balance including Ni and inevitable impurities.
US08343418B2
The embodiments of the invention relate to a tap hole plug gun for metallurgical furnaces, having a pressure cylinder for receiving the plugging compound, which has a closable filling opening for the plugging compound, and having a plugging piston for pressing the plugging compound out from a mouthpiece of the pressure cylinder pressed against the tap hole of a furnace. The pivotable safety flap for closing the filling opening of the pressure cylinder for the plugging compound is equipped with a stop, which is pivoted into the cylinder chamber of the pressure cylinder upon opening of the flap to decelerate an unintentional forward stroke of the plugging piston for pre-compression and expulsion of the plugging compound, and is pivoted out of the cylinder chamber upon closing of the safety flap.
US08343398B2
A prefabricated modular panel, comprising a framework that includes a plurality of lattices, with a lattice of the plurality of lattices comprising a first elongated member and a second elongated member that are spaced apart and juxtapose laterally parallel, forming an axial length of the lattice. Further included is a third member substantially transversally oriented at an angle along the axial length of the lattice, with the third member coupling the first elongated member with the second elongated member to form the lattice, with the plurality of lattices forming the framework. The plurality of lattices are coupled with one another in parallel by a solidified filler material forming a single piece, unitary modular panel.
US08343395B2
A powder particle shaping device includes a closed cavity capable of changing between multiple shapes as an external pressure changes, and the closed cavity compresses and moves powder particles with which the closed cavity is filled full while the shape changes. A powder particle shaping method is further provided, which includes a. filling a cavity full with powder particles to be shaped; and b. applying a varying external pressure to make the cavity change repeatedly between multiple shapes, thereby making the powder particles under compression move and be subject to friction, where the cavity is kept in a closed state during an effective processing process. The shaping device and method have highly controllable shaping processing intensity of powder particles and stable processing strength, and thus are applicable to shaping and pulverization of various powder particles, and also applicable to pulverization and further shaping processing of dispersed agglomerates.
US08343391B2
Photochromic matrix compositions and tie layer compositions useful for the preparation of photochromic polycarbonate lenses are disclosed. The tie layer compositions facilitate adhesion of the photochromic matrix composition to the polycarbonate lens. The photochromic matrix compositions can contain a flexible hydrophilic dimethacrylate monomer, one or more hydrophobic monomers, a flexible hydrophobic multi(meth)acrylate monomer, one or more urethane methacrylate oligomers, and one or more photochromic dyes. The tie layer compositions can contain one or more methacrylate monomers, a (meth)acrylated oligomer with a polycarbonate backbone, one or more urethane methacrylate oligomers, and a solvent or solvent mixture. Methods of preparing photochromic polycarbonate lenses are also disclosed, involving the serial application of the tie layer composition, then the photochromic matrix composition to the lens.
US08343389B2
A composition that contains nickel oxyhydroxide, nickel metal, ruthenium oxide (Ru02) and a binder is prepared as the cathode for a nickel-zinc battery. Metal oxide or hydroxide with a rare earth oxide may be included in the cathode to improve the electrode capacity and shelf life. Optionally, zinc oxide is added to the cathode to facilitate charger transfer and improve the characteristics of high rate discharging. The cathode significantly increases the charging efficiency, promotes the overpotential of oxygen evolution, and intensifies the depth of discharging, thereby increasing the overall efficiency and lifespan of the battery.
US08343379B2
The invention discloses a red phosphor powder which is based on strontium (Sr) aluminate and using europium (Eu) as exciting agent, and is characterized by that its chemical equivalence formula is (SrO)4(ΣMe+2O)1Al2O3: Eu, wherein Me+2=Mg and/or Ca and/or Ba. The present invention also discloses a manufacturing process for the red phosphor powder and a warm white light-emitting diode employing the phosphor powder. Moreover, the present invention also discloses a multi-layer polyethylene thin film using the red phosphor powder.
US08343376B2
A KNbO3—NaNbO3 piezoelectric porcelain composition which exhibits a larger piezoelectric constant than those of conventional ones and does not have any secondary phase transition point in the neighborhood of room temperature (10 to 40° C.), that is, a piezoelectric porcelain composition represented by the general formula: (1-y-z-w)(KxNa1-x)NbO3+yLiNbO3+zSrTiO3+wBiFeO3, wherein (KxNa1-x)NbO3 represents potassium sodium niobate; LiNbO3 represents lithium niobate; SrTiO3 represents strontium titanate; and BiFeO3 represents bismuth ferrate; with the proviso that 0.4
US08343374B2
There is provided an electrolytic solution comprising a chain carbonate (I) represented by the formula (I): wherein Rf is a fluorine-containing ether group (Ia) having, at its end, a moiety represented by the formula: HCFX (X is H or F); R is an alkyl group in which hydrogen atom may be substituted with halogen atom and hetero atom may be contained in its chain, and an electrolyte salt (II), and the electrolytic solution is excellent in flame retardance, low temperature characteristics, withstand voltage and compatibility with a hydrocarbon solvent and is high in solubility of an electrolyte salt.
US08343372B2
A surface processing method for a mounting stage, which enables a mounting surface conforming to a substrate to be formed while saving time and effort. The substrate is mounted on a mounting surface of the mounting stage disposed in a housing chamber of a substrate processing apparatus that carries out plasma processing on the substrate. The mounted substrate is thermally expanded.
US08343368B2
Method of fabricating a structure by anisotropic etching, and silicon substrate with an etching mask
In a fabrication method of fabricating a structure, a basic etching mask corresponding a target shape with a convex corner, and a correction etching mask with a first portion, a second portion and an opening portion are formed on a single-crystal silicon substrate, and the silicon substrate with the basic etching mask and the correction etching mask formed thereon is subjected to an anisotropic etching to form the silicon substrate having the target shape. The first portion extends in a <110> direction, respective ends of the first portion are connected to the basic etching mask. The second portion is connected to a side of the first portion extending in the <110> direction.
US08343366B2
Nanoscale graphene structure fabrication techniques are provided. An oxide nanowire useful as a mask is formed on a graphene layer and then ion beam etching is performed. A nanoscale graphene structure is fabricated by removing a remaining oxide nanowire after the ion beam etching.
US08343365B2
The invention provides a color filter producing method that is based on dry etching and makes it possible to produce a color filter which has fine and rectangular pixels and is excellent in flatness, and color filters produced by the method. The method is a color filter producing method of forming a first colorant-containing layer on a support, removing the first colorant-containing layer corresponding to a region where a second colorant-containing layer is to be formed by dry etching, forming the second colorant-containing layer so as to be embedded into the layer-removed region, removing the first and second colorant-containing layers corresponding to a region where a third colorant-containing layer is to be formed by dry etching, forming the third colorant-containing layer so as to be embedded into the layer-removed region, and removing the colorant-containing layers laminated on other colorant-containing layers.
US08343362B2
According to one embodiment, when forming first, second, and third stampers by transferring three-dimensional patterns of a master, a height adjusting layer having a film thickness greater on the upper surface of a projection than on the bottom surface of a recess is formed between the second stamper and a second release layer, and the surface of the third stamper is etched with an acidic solution having a pH of less than 3.
US08343361B2
A method for producing a thin film laminated capacitor that makes it possible to reduce the number of operations for etching its electrode layers and its dielectric layers. On a substrate, a capacitor part is formed wherein n electrode layers and (n−1) dielectric layers are alternately laminated onto each other, wherein n is 4 or more. The capacitor part is etched from the same side k times. In any ith etching operation, through holes are formed in an amount corresponding to respective ai layers of the electrode layers and the dielectric layers. At least one of ai's is set to 2 or more, and k is made smaller than n−1, thereby making it possible to make the 2nd to nth layers of the electrode layers from the etching starting side exposed at the bottom surfaces of the through holes.
US08343353B1
A grease containment apparatus arranged to receive grease discharged by a fan-type rooftop grease exhauster includes multiple sumps and at least one trough disposed between the sumps. An apparatus may be disposed along two, three, or four sides of a rooftop grease exhauster, including corner sumps assemblies and/or end sump assemblies, preferably including associated rain shields, and optionally including one or more end caps. Components may be fabricated of UV-resistant polymeric materials such as ABS. Use of grease absorbent media may be avoided. A drain conduit may receive water from a sump, with at least a portion of the drain conduit being disposed at a level above a bottom edge of the sump.
US08343346B2
A cassette is described for holding circuit components used with a hemodialysis machine.
US08343343B2
An underdrain apparatus includes one or more underdrain blocks and an anchor assembly that includes one or more support members. Each of the underdrain blocks includes a top wall, a bottom wall, a pair of opposing side walls, a pair of opposing end walls, and a center separation wall that extends between the pair of opposing end walls. The center separation wall of at least one of the underdrain blocks may have one or more apertures formed therein, the apertures configured to receive at least one of the support members. One or more of the side walls of the pair of opposing side walls of the underdrain blocks may have one or more side clips. At least one of the side clips defines an aperture for receiving a support member.
US08343338B2
A valve assembly having a first valve defining an inlet connected to the inlet supply and an outlet connected to the concentrate chamber, a second valve defining an inlet connected to the permeate chamber and an outlet connected to the faucet, and a third valve defining an outlet connected to drain, a port connected to the concentrate chamber, and an inlet connected to the inlet supply. The port is selectively in fluid communication with the third valve outlet and inlet. When the faucet opens, the first valve opens, the second valve has permeate flowing, and the third valve opens a flowpath between the third valve port and the inlet due to pressure dropping in the second valve. When the faucet closes, the first valve closes and the third valve opens another flowpath between the third valve port and outlet due to pressure created in the second valve.
US08343337B2
A process for the extraction and recovery of bitumen from oil sands and a process for the treatment of tailings are disclosed. Bitumen is recovered in a process comprising contacting a polysilicate microgel with an ore sand oil to produce a froth comprising bitumen and a tailings stream comprising water, sand and clay fines. Preferably the tailings stream is dewatered and recovered water may be recycled to the extraction process. Polysilicate microgel may be carried through to a dewatering step and enhances flocculation in dewatering said tailings.
US08343324B2
The invention provides electrochemically-based methods and devices for producing fluid flow and/or changes in fluid pressure. In the methods and devices of the invention, current is passed through a divided electrochemical cell. Adjacent compartments of the cell are divided by a separator which comprises an ionically conducting separator. Each compartment includes an electrode and an electrolyte solution or ionic liquid. The electrolyte solution(s) or ionic liquid(s) and the ionically conducting separator are selected to obtain the desired relationship between the current through the cell and the fluid flowrate and/or change in fluid pressure.
US08343318B2
A physical vapor deposition (PVD) system includes a chamber and a plurality of electromagnetic coils arranged around the chamber. First and second annular bands of permanent magnets are arranged around the chamber with poles oriented perpendicular to a magnetic field imposed by the electromagnetic coils. Each of the permanent magnets in the first annular band is arranged with poles having a first polarity closest to a central axis of the chamber. Each of the permanent magnets in the second annular band is arranged anti-parallel with respect to the permanent magnets in the first annular band.
US08343316B2
A vacuum dehydrator for processing an oil containing entrained contaminants such as water, air, and particulates comprises a tower enclosing upper and lower chambers. A random packing is contained in the upper chamber. The oil is preheated to a temperature above the boiling point of water and is introduced into the upper chamber for downward flow through the random packing into the lower chamber. Entrained air and water is retained as water vapor in the upper chamber, and particulates are retained in the random packing. Heated ambient air is introduced into the lower chamber for upward flow through the random packing into the upper chamber, and the upper chamber is cooled to condense the water vapor. Oil and condensed water are pumped respectively from the lower and upper chambers.
US08343314B2
A pulp feeder for used paper recycling apparatus being installed in a room of a small shop or the like, friendly to the environment, low in running cost, and capable of maintaining a high confidentiality is presented. The pulp feeder includes a partition member disposed slidably on the downside of a running endless mesh belt, and a paper making frame body disposed slidably on the upside of the mesh belt, and an overflow gate is provided in the paper making frame body for keeping constant the water level of the collected pulp suspension, and the pulp suspension supplied in the paper making frame body is collected up to a specific water level defined by the overflow gate, and is uniformly diffused and supplied on the upside of the running mesh belt. Accordingly, if the supply water volume of pulp suspension fluctuates, the water level of pulp suspension staying in the paper making frame body is always kept constant, and the weight of the wet paper manufactured on the mesh belt is stabilized.
US08343311B2
A method for producing paper, cardboard or similar materials, comprising, separately or in a mixture, adding to a fibrous suspension: at least one main retention agent comprising a cationic (co)polymer, and at least one dual retention agent comprising a crosslinked cationic (co)polymer obtained in the form of a dispersion and placed in solution prior to its introduction into the fibrous suspension with gentle stirring. The crosslinked cationic (co)polymer having—a UL viscosity of between 1.3 and 2.7 cps, preferably between 1.5 and 2.4 cps, and—an apparent cationicity ratio of between 25 and 75%. Optionally, before or after the dual agent or the main retention agent are added, one or more tertiary retention agent(s) selected from the group comprising mineral particles and organic polymers carrying anionic charges, is added to the suspension.
US08343306B2
A plasma processing apparatus can prevent a sheath from becoming distorted, simplify a configuration of the apparatus, and prevent particles from attaching to a substrate. The plasma processing apparatus performs plasma processing on the substrate. A housing chamber houses the substrate. A mounting stage is disposed within the housing chamber and mounted with the substrate. An annular member is disposed in the mounting stage. A power supply unit supplies high-frequency power to the mounting stage. An observation unit optically observes the distribution of the plasma. A voltage applying unit applies a DC voltage to the annular member. A control unit sets the value of the DC voltage to be applied based on the observed plasma distribution.
US08343301B2
The present invention provides a method of manufacturing interior material using transfer paper, the method comprising the steps of: processing release paper for coating a surface of the release paper with a release agent; coating an acryl resin layer for coating the surface of the release paper manufactured in the release paper processing with an acryl resin layer in order to improve a printing eligibility of the surface of the release paper for a convenient digital printing; printing images for printing various designs such as pictures, figures or patterns desired by a customer on the acryl resin layer of the release paper formed in the acryl resin coating process through a digital ink jet printer in order to manufacture transfer paper; bonding a master sheet for bonding the images of the transfer paper manufactured through the image printing process to a master sheet to be transferred; and post-treating master sheet for bonding a surface paper layer or surface reinforcement layer to the surface of the master sheet on which images are transferred after the images are transferred to the master sheet through the master sheet bonding process in order to strengthen duration.
US08343298B2
First and second aircraft structures are bonded together with an adhesive including strain-sensitive magnetostrictive material.
US08343295B2
An apparatus is provided for wrapping a conductor bar with an insulation. The apparatus has at least one supply roll for feeding an insulating tape to the conductor bar. The insulating tape can be wound around the conductor bar by the supply roll rotating relative to the conductor bar. At least one pressure roll is provided, and the insulating tape can be pressed against the conductor bar by means of the pressure roll. A method is also provided for wrapping a conductor bar with insulation, with an insulating tape being pressed against the conductor bar by means of a pressure roll.
US08343292B1
The pressure sensitive adhesive tape of this invention comprises a first layer of polymeric material, particularly a polyvinyl chloride, having a Shore A Hardness of between 92 and 100 and a second layer of adhesive material attached to a surface of the layer of polymeric material.
US08343290B2
A rubber sheet is made from rubber-containing granules by first coating the rubber granules with a binder, then forming the coated rubber granules into a mat having a core layer with a low moisture level of less than 5% and a pair of outer surface layers, and then, without substantially increasing the low moisture level in the core layer, setting in at least one of the outer layers a high moisture level of 10% to 50% by weight and thereby imparting to the mat an inhomogeneous moisture profile. The mat with the inhomogeneous moisture level is then hot-pressed with pressure and heat so as to vaporize moisture in the one outer layer and drive steam into the core layer, and the hot-pressed mat is cured.
US08343289B2
In one aspect, matching layers for an ultrasonic transducer stack having a matching layer comprising a matrix material loaded with a plurality of micron-sized and nano-sized particles. In another aspect, the matrix material is loaded with a plurality of heavy and light particles. In another aspect, an ultrasound transducer stack comprises a piezoelectric layer and at least one matching layer. In one aspect, the matching layer comprises a composite material comprising a matrix material loaded with a plurality of micron-sized and nano-sized particles. In a further aspect, the composite material can also comprise a matrix material loaded with a plurality of heavy and light particles. In a further aspect, a matching layer can also comprise cyanoacrylate.
US08343285B2
A method for carrying out a dishwashing cycle in a household dishwasher includes performing a wash step and dispensing an amount of a combination product from a dispenser during the wash step. The combination product includes a rinse agent and a cleaning agent. The method also includes performing a rinse step and dispensing an amount of the combination product from the dispenser during the rinse step.
US08343279B2
Embodiments of the invention provide apparatuses and methods for depositing materials on substrates during vapor deposition processes, such as atomic layer deposition (ALD). In one embodiment, a chamber contains a substrate support with a receiving surface and a chamber lid containing an expanding channel formed within a thermally insulating material. The chamber further includes at least one conduit coupled to a gas inlet within the expanding channel and positioned to provide a gas flow through the expanding channel in a circular direction, such as a vortex, a helix, a spiral or derivatives thereof. The expanding channel may be formed directly within the chamber lid or formed within a funnel liner attached thereon. The chamber may contain a retaining ring, an upper process liner, a lower process liner or a slip valve liner. Liners usually have a polished surface finish and contain a thermally insulating material such as fused quartz or ceramic. In an alternative embodiment, a deposition system contains a catalytic water vapor generator connected to an ALD chamber.
US08343278B2
A mask assembly includes a mask frame, the mask frame having an opening and a frame surrounding the opening, a pattern mask on the mask frame, the pattern mask including a pattern portion having at least one pattern overlapping the opening and a welding portion attached to the frame, and at least one support bar crossing the opening and attached to the pattern mask.
US08343264B2
The assemblies of the invention can comprise a fine fiber layer having dispersed within the fine fiber layer an active particulate material. Fluid that flows through the assemblies of the invention can have any material dispersed or dissolved in the fluid react with, be absorbed by, or adsorbed onto, the active particulate within the nanofiber layer. The structures of the invention can act simply as reactive, absorptive, or adsorptive layers with no filtration properties, or the structures of the invention can be assembled into filters that can filter particulate from a mobile fluid while simultaneously reacting, absorbing, or adsorbing materials from the mobile fluid.
US08343262B2
The present invention is directed to the prevention of an exothermic reaction in the gas purifier of an ultra-high purity gas system.
US08343253B2
A method for producing conductor fine particles in which the advantages of conventional vapor phase method and liquid phase method are utilized while eliminating the drawbacks of both methods remarkably. Furthermore, definite guidelines and measure for improvement are given to the greatest problems common to the vapor phase method and liquid phase method, i.e., enhancement in quality of the unit fine particle and a fine particle production method controllably temporarily and regionally. The method for producing conductor fine particles comprises a step for applying a voltage to a pair of electrode consisting of a positive electrode and a negative electrode arranged in conductive liquid and generating plasma in the vicinity of the negative electrode, and a step for producing conductor fine particles by melting the metal material of the negative electrode and then re-solidifying.
US08343251B2
A composite filter media having excellent dust-releasing properties provided with a layer of netting formed of a low surface free energy material that is hot calendered to the upstream surface of a supporting layer formed of non-woven synthetic fibers. A filtering layer formed of non-woven synthetic fibers is laminated to the downstream surface of the supporting layer. The filtering layer may include an electrostatic charge to increase filter efficiency at a reduced pressure drop across the composite media.
US08343249B2
A filter element, a particle filter, a method for marking a filter element, a method for producing a particle filter and the use of a filter element are described. With such methods and filter elements, individual filter elements can be securely adhered in a simple manner to form a filter. An identification means is applied to the end surfaces of each filter element for producing a particle filter, thus enabling the defined orientation of the filter elements for the adhesive process and preventing erroneous adhesion.
US08343248B2
The present invention provides a filter unit panel in which the generation of an organic gas derived from an adhesive can be suppressed although a plurality of filter units each having a frame body made of a resin member and an outer frame that surrounds these units are used together. This filter unit panel includes a plurality of filter units (100) and an outer frame (10) that surrounds these units. Each of the plurality of filter units includes a pleated filter medium and a frame body that supports the filter medium. Both of the outer frame (10) and the frame body are resin members. The filter units (100) are integrated into a single unit by welding their frame bodies adjacent to each other, and the outer frame and the frame bodies are integrated with each other by welding.
US08343244B2
Dust collection structure for collecting the dust removed from an air filter of an indoor unit has been devised to reduce user's labor in collecting the dust as much as possible. An indoor unit includes, in a casing, an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan for sucking air from inside of a room, and blowing the air to the inside of the room, and an air filter arranged on an inlet side of the indoor fan. The dust trapped on the air filter is removed by the dust removing means, and is contained in the dust containing part. A nozzle connector for arranging a nozzle of a cleaner at a predetermined position where suction of the contained dust is allowed is provided at a downstream outlet of a dust collection path as a transfer path for transferring the dust in collecting the contained dust.
US08343231B1
A surgical mesh for repair of incisional and or ventral hernia with a fixation fin extending from one of the surfaces of the mesh usually along the midline of the surface. The closure of the hernia defect edges involves suturing to the fin to avoid the possibility of damage to internal organs during laparoscopic suturing. An alternate embodiment involves a flexible rod mounted in a tubular structure on the mesh axis. The tubular structure includes a central opening with an attached thread that permits removal of the flexible rod, which spreads the mesh open to facilitate fixation of the mesh onto the abdominal wall surface.
US08343230B2
Disclosed is a polymeric orthopaedic bearing material for use as an implant material or part thereof comprising one or more crosslinked regions and one or more non-crosslinked or substantially non-crosslinked regions at the surface. The bearing material can be prepared from a crosslinkable polymer, e.g., ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene. The orthopaedic bearing material has an advantageous combination of at least one wear property and at least one mechanical property. Also disclosed are processes for producing orthopaedic bearing materials, for example, by irradiating a raw material in consolidated form through a radiation mask having a perforated pattern for crosslinking selected regions of the raw material, and optionally shaping the raw material into a bearing material. Alternatively, a pulsed radiation beam can be used for crosslinking.
US08343224B2
According to some embodiments, a method for promoting spinal fusion using a spinal implant comprises providing a spinal implant, wherein the spinal implant comprises an anterior wall, a posterior wall and two lateral walls configured to extend between the anterior wall and the posterior wall. In some embodiments, the spinal implant further comprises at least one internal chamber generally positioned between the anterior wall, the posterior wall and the two lateral walls, wherein the internal chamber being is adapted to receive at least one graft and/or other fill material. In some arrangements, the anterior wall of the spinal implant comprises at least one opening or hole that places the internal chamber in fluid communication with an exterior area or portion of the spinal implant. In one embodiment, at least one of the two lateral walls comprises an access port. The method additionally includes positioning the spinal implant between two adjacent vertebrae of a patient and directing at least one graft and/or other fill material into the internal chamber of the spinal implant through the access port. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the graft and/or other fill material delivered into the internal chamber is configured to exit through the one or more of the openings of the anterior wall.
US08343223B2
A spinal implant assembly combines a spinal interbody spacer with a spine plate. The combined spinal interbody spacer and spine plate assembly provides stabilization and torsional resistance to promote fusion of adjacent vertebrae of the spine. The interbody spacer is configured for placement within an intervertebral space between the adjacent vertebrae previously occupied by a spinal disc. The spinal plate is configured for attachment to anterior sides of the adjacent vertebrae (either on or within the vertebrae). The spinal plate may translate relative to the interbody spacer or it may be fixed relative to the interbody spacer. Translation of the spinal plate allows it to be affixed to the vertebrae in various positions and/or allow movement post installation. In one form, the spinal plate is defined by first and second spine plate or plate portions that are coupled to one another to allow rotation about each other. Ends of the first and second spine plates are received in/by the interbody spacer, while a pin extends through the interbody spacer to fix the first and second spine plates to the interbody spacer. In another form, the spinal plate is defined by first and second spine plates or plate portions that are movably retained by the interbody spacer. In call cases, the first and second spine plates each have one, two or more screw holes for accepting a bone screw for fixing the spine plates to the adjacent vertebrae.
US08343220B2
Tapered root threaded hollow perforated interbody spinal fusion implants are disclosed for placement into a disc space in a human spine between adjacent vertebral bodies. The implants have opposite arcuate portions with lockable screws passing therethrough for engaging each of the adjacent vertebral bodies. The implants are adapted for use in side-by-side pairs such that a portion of the circumference of a first implant nests within the circumference of a second implant, so as to have a reduced combined width.
US08343217B2
An accommodating intraocular lens for providing a range of accommodative vision contains an optic and a haptic. The optic is disposed about an optical axis and includes an anterior surface and a posterior surface defining a clear aperture of the optic. The haptic is at least partially disposed inside the optic and includes an inner structure, an outer structure, and a plurality of arms disposed between and connecting the inner structure and the outer structure. The inner structure is circumferentially disposed about the optical axis, while the outer structure is circumferentially disposed about the inner structure and has an outer face. Each arm has proximal portion adjacent the inner structure and a distal portion adjacent the outer structure that is bifurcated in a radial direction from the proximal portion. The intraocular lens also has an outer surface defined by outer surfaces of the plurality of arms and an outer surface of the outer structure. The inner structure and at least a portion of the arms are disposed inside the clear aperture. The distal portion of each arm has a larger axial extent than an axial extent of the inner portion. The distal portion of each arm has a larger axial extent along the outer surface than an axial extent of the outer structure along the outer surface.
US08343212B2
A medical device, for example a stent, has a surface which in use contacts body tissue, wherein said surface has on it a biocompatible coating layer comprising a polymer having covalently bound allyl-terminated pendent groups, said pendent groups comprising a moiety selected from -0-CH2—CH═CH2—S—CH2—CH═CH2—S(=0)-CH2—CH═CH2—Se—CH2—CH═CH2 and —Se (=0 J-CH2—CH═CH2. This surface has good biocompatibility and can bind strongly to a metallic surface. The polymer may be made from an electropolymerisable monomer, e.g. a pyrrole.
US08343196B2
A bone plate has an underside on the side of the bone, an upper side and a plurality of holes in the plate connecting the underside with the upper side, with a central hole axis. At least one of these holes in the plate has an internal jacket surface that tapers towards the underside, while the internal jacket surface has N≧3 recesses which extend radially away from the axis of the hole.
US08343195B2
A surgical drill guide for use with a bone plate having fastener holes oriented at predetermined angles with respect to the plate, the surgical drill guide having at least one alignment drill guiding barrel that is aligned with the respective fastener holes in the bone plate for drilling the holes at the desired range of angles permitted by the plate hole.
US08343194B2
A surgical staple for discectomy by an anterior approach that comprises a plate with sharp-pointed projections positioned at each of four corners of the plate and extending perpendicularly there from for frictional insertion into pilot holes formed in the vertebrae, and a pair of circular apertures in the plate spaced along a centerline for insertion of bone screws. The plurality of projections may further comprise four barbed and pointed projections that a surgeon may quickly tap into the bone, thereafter securing the staple with two smaller bone screws. An Annular C shaped retention locking clip retains the bone screws and prevents counter-rotation and back out.
US08343186B2
A suture anchor has a pin that is disposed transversely within the suture anchor, over which one or more strands of suture is looped. The anchor body is threaded and has a tapered distal portion. The proximal end portion of the suture anchor body has a hexagonally shaped opening to accept a hexagonal drive head. The peripheral surface defining hexagonally shaped opening is rounded and smooth to prevent abrading sutures placed in contact therewith.
US08343182B2
A tourniquet assembly includes a strap and a windlass crank attached to a windlass cord that forms a loop that is slidably engaged with anchors that are attached to the main strap. During use, the crank is rotated, causing the windlass cord to twist. This effectively shortens the length of the windlass cord which also pulls the anchors inwardly, thereby causing a similar shortening of the main strap between the anchors and enabling the strap to be used for use as a tourniquet.
US08343168B2
A medical device having a member with a lumen extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the member is disclosed. The lumen has a device portion defined by at least one curved walled portion and at least one anchoring portion. An endoscopic device, such as a needle, is attached to an actuator inserted into the device portion of the lumen. A housing or stop is inserted into the distal end of the lumen.
US08343166B2
A clamp assembly for bone fixation elements including first and second clamp structures configured to engage first and second bone fixation elements, respectively. The first clamp structure may have a first spherically contoured bearing surface. The second clamp structure may have a second spherically contoured bearing surface seated in sliding contact with the first bearing surface. A spring-loaded mechanism may apply a spring force urging the bearing surfaces together to resist pivotal movement of the clamp structures relative to each other. The clamp assembly may be used with an assembly of fixation elements to create an external fixation frame.
US08343165B2
A driver apparatus for implanting spinal rod fixation devices including an anchor member and a coupling member pivotable relative to the anchor member is disclosed. The driver apparatus generally immobilizes the anchor member and coupling member relative to each other and to the driver apparatus during insertion to minimize interference between the coupling member and tissues surrounding the implantation site, as well as to minimize the clearance required for implantation. The driver apparatus includes a driver portion engageable with the anchor member for effecting seating of the anchor member, such as by threadably driving the anchor member in the bone. The driver portion is closely fit between portions such as upstanding walls of the coupling member to prevent relative rotation therebetween. The driver apparatus further includes locking portions shiftable to secure the coupling member with the driver apparatus when the driver is engaged with the anchor member.
US08343159B2
A number of orthopaedic surgical instruments are also disclosed. A method, apparatus, and system for fabricating such instruments are also disclosed.
US08343157B2
A bone-reaming system for use in bone cavities which allows for a less invasive and more precise surgical procedure is disclosed. An apparatus according to such a system may include a housing, a motor disposed within the housing, and a cutter attached to the motor and extendable through the aperture, wherein the housing is capable of articulating with respect to a bone cavity so as to allow the cutter to cut at least a portion of the bone cavity. A routing guide is used in conjunction with the apparatus to provide a template through which to cut preselected portions of a bone cavity. Also disclosed is a method for using such a bone-reaming system.
US08343153B2
The invention refers to a component for arrangement at an implant as well as a method for the assembling of an implant arrangement. The component comprises a basic component, at least one sensor arranged in the basic component for the detection of a measurement variable and for the generation of measuring data for the detected measurement variable, a telemetry device arranged in the basic component for transmitting and receiving data and a data transmission connection between the at least one sensor device and the telemetry device for the transmission of data between the at least one sensor device and the telemetry device, whereby the data comprise the measuring data. At the basic component, assembly means for mounting the basic component in an implant recess are formed.
US08343151B2
A forceps includes a housing having a shaft extending therefrom. The shaft has an end effector assembly that defines a longitudinal axis therethrough. The end effector assembly includes first and second jaw members disposed in opposed relation and moveable from a first, open position to a second, closed position for grasping tissue therebetween and a knife. One or more jaw members include knife blade channels defined therein. Each knife blade channel includes a polygonal longitudinal cross-section defined therein. The knife includes a knife edge and a knife base. The knife base includes a corresponding polygonal longitudinal cross-section. The knife is configured to translate through the knife blade channels and the knife base is configured to slidingly engage the knife base channel having the polygonal cross section upon translation of the knife. In embodiments, the knife blade channel and the knife base have a T-shaped longitudinal cross-section.
US08343148B2
A device for morcellating tissue within a body cavity of a patient comprises a stationary tube having a distal end portion, and a bipolar electrosurgical electrode assembly located at the distal end of the tube. The electrosurgical electrode assembly comprises first and second electrodes separated by an insulation member. When an electrosurgical cutting voltage is applied to the electrode assembly, and relative movement is initiated between the tube and the tissue, a core of severed tissue is formed within the tube such that it can be removed from the body cavity of the patient. The tube comprises a twin-walled construction with an inner wall, an outer wall and an air gap therebetween. This twin-walled construction reduces the heat that is able to travel proximally along the tube.
US08343146B2
Embodiments of a system and method are described for delivering energy to a body of a human or animal through a plurality of energy delivery devices. In some embodiments, a plurality of energy delivery devices are coupled to a generator and the number of energy delivery devices is automatically detectable. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the amount of energy delivered through the energy delivery devices is controlled, at least in part, by dynamically varying the amount of time that each energy delivery device is delivering energy.
US08343145B2
An electromagnetic surgical ablation probe having a conical hood reflector and method of manufacture thereof is disclosed. The disclosed probe includes a shaft assembly that has a coaxial feedline core having an inner conductor and an outer conductor separated by an insulating layer. A tubular catheter is disposed coaxially around the feedline and is configured to deliver coolant, such as saline or deionized water, to a coolant chamber at a distal end formed within the conical reflector. A radiating section disposed within the conical reflector may have a conical, cylindrical, or other suitable shape. A membrane disposed across a distal opening of the conical reflector seals coolant within the coolant chamber, and may conform to tissue contours during use. A resilient aperture may be included at the periphery of the conical hood. The shaft assembly may include an angled section, an adjustable section, and, additionally or alternatively, a malleable section.
US08343139B2
A portable systems release fluid pressure with a cavity within a patient. These systems include a drainage catheter, a pressure-responsive one-way valve, and a fluid reservoir all adapted to be mounted in proximity to the cavity being drained. One system in particular is used in relieving intracranial pressure. This intracranial pressure relief system may include a headband to which are mounted the one-way valve and reservoir. The drainage catheter may have mounted thereon a cranium seal formed of a soft material that contacts the inner wall of a cranium bore hole. The cranium seal may have threads to facilitate advancement into the bore hole.
US08343137B2
A medical connector, of a female luer type, comprises an external tubular body (4) which contains an internal tubular body (2) free to rotate about an axis thereof. The external tubular body exhibits a screw-coupling surface. The internal tubular body exhibits a conical luer seal surface. An insert (5), which has a pawl (9) snap-fitted in a window (8) afforded on the external tubular body, constrains the two tubular bodies solidly to one another, in an axial displacement direction. The connector is used to connect a blood line to a blood port of a dialyser, preventing the blood line from twisting on itself and kinking.
US08343136B2
An introducer sheath and a method for making the sheath. The sheath includes a fluoropolymer liner having a passageway extending longitudinally therethrough. An inner jacket is positioned longitudinally over the liner, and the inner surface of the inner jacket is bonded to the outer surface of the liner. An outer jacket is positioned longitudinally over the inner jacket, and the inner surface of the outer jacket is bonded to the outer surface of the inner jacket. A reinforcing coil is encapsulated within the inner jacket and the outer jacket.
US08343133B2
Disclosed is an aspiration assembly including an outer cannulated needle having a tip, a threaded collar, and an inner aspiration needle. A material can be aspirated through at least the inner aspiration needle. The distance that the tip of the inner aspiration needle extends from the tip of the outer cannulated needle changes when the inner aspiration needle is rotated relative to the outer cannulated needle.
US08343125B2
An absorbent article (100) includes a topsheet (101), a backsheet (102), and an absorbent core (10). The absorbent core (10) includes a number of discretely and independently arranged absorbent members (30) located across a planar direction of the article (100). An intermediate sheet (20) is disposed between the topsheet (101) and the absorbent core (10) or between the backsheet (102) and the absorbent core (10). The absorbent members (30) are fixed to the intermediate sheet (20). It is preferable that an absorption rate of physiological saline solution measured by D/W method of each of the topsheet (101), the intermediate sheet (20), and the absorbent core (10) satisfies the following relationship: the topsheet (101)
US08343123B2
An absorbent article comprising an absorbent body, wherein the absorbent body has multiple linear or curved fold regions with a flexural rigidity lower than average flexural rigidity and with a flexural rigidity lower than that in adjacent regions. Accordingly, there is provided an absorbent article that can change its morphology along the configuration of wear object. Absorbent article has multiple linear or curved first fold regions with a flexural rigidity lower than the average flexural rigidity of the absorbent article and with a flexural rigidity lower than that in adjacent regions, which multiple first fold regions are provided in approximately symmetric relationship with respect to the center line in the direction of width.
US08343120B2
The invention provides an ostomy bag assembly including an outer bag and an inner bag secured to one side of a flange. The inner bag is removable to facilitate disposal. The flange has a polymeric backing film and a layer of bioadhesive for securing the ostomy bag assembly to the body of a patient. The flange includes an orifice to enable bodily waste to be received by the inner bag. The outer bag is detachably bonded to a first attachment zone on the flange and the inner bag is secured to a second attachment zone on the flange. The outer bag is mounted to the flange by an annular bonding element is formed from a multilayer polymeric material comprising first and second ethylene vinyl acetate layers and a polymeric support layer interposed there between. A method of fabricating ostomy bags is also provided.
US08343119B2
Provided is a cap device for home use to temporarily cover the stoma resulting from a urostomy, colostomy or ileostomy procedure. It provides a favorable means of preventing leakage during routine cleaning around the stoma during the ostomy pouch replacement process. The device may include, in any combination, use of a flexible elastomeric material for creating low suction to assist with retention, a shaped lip for comfort and sealing, a disposable liner, or internal absorption material to help avoid spillage and leakage.
US08343095B2
Thermochemical ablation techniques may provide ablation of bodily tissue using chemical reaction energy.
US08343094B2
This invention relates to medical devices useful for infusion therapy and, more particularly, to a syringe that can be selectively used with a retractable needle or with frontal attachment devices such as luer hubs, valves or other connectors in needleless systems.
US08343091B2
A method of maintaining a locking fluid in an implanted catheter including positioning a catheter assembly in a patient, the catheter assembly including a first lumen having a closed first distal end and a first proximal end, and a second lumen having a closed second distal end and a second proximal end and injecting the locking fluid into the first and second proximal ends at a low pressure such that the locking fluid enters each lumen without opening the respective closed distal end. A method of withdrawing the locking fluid is also provided.
US08343087B2
A prosthetic device for creating a vascular bypass from an arterial vessel has at least one prosthetic tube joined to an orifice of a flexible collar. The prosthetic tube extends from an outer face of the collar. The collar has an inner face surface for attachment to the arterial vessel. The collar has a connection zone has an annular cavity extending around and away from the orifice. The annular cavity is suitable for receiving an injected glue or bioabsorable haemostatic product so as to attach to the arterial vessel.
US08343082B2
A medical bandaging product, including a non-woven, fibrous, flexible medical material adapted for being applied and conformed to a body part to be supported, and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the medical material. The system remains stable when maintained in a non-activated condition in the absence of an activating agent, such as water, and hardens upon activation by exposure to the activating agent to form a rigid, self supporting structure. An enclosure is provided within which the medical material is maintained against exposure to the activating agent until use. The product may be in pre-cut shapes or in roll-form for cutting off a desired length for a given use.
US08343081B2
Methods to control the delivery of CPR to a patient through a mechanical CPR device are described. The method generally allows for a gradual increase in the frequency of CPR cycles. The gradual increase can be regulated by protocols programmed within the CPR device such as intermittently starting and stopping the delivery of CPR, accelerating the delivery of CPR, stepping up the CPR frequency, increasing the force of CPR, and adjusting the ratio of compression and decompression in a CPR cycle. Combinations of each of these forms may also be used to control the delivery of CPR. This manner of gradually accelerating artificial blood flow during the first minutes of mechanical CPR delivery can serve to lessen the potential for ischemia/reperfusion injury in the patient who receives mechanical CPR treatment.
US08343080B2
A knee extension treatment apparatus for applying a downward force to an upper surface of a user's leg while the leg is supported by the knee extension treatment apparatus, for facilitating the straightening of the leg when bent at the knee, according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a base frame assembly, an ankle support connected to the base frame assembly, first and second strap assemblies secured to the base frame assembly, each strap assembly being secured at one end and constructed and arranged to lay over the upper surface of the user's leg, a corresponding opposite end of each strap assembly being moveable by the user whereby pulling each corresponding opposite end creates a corresponding downward force on the upper surface of the user's leg.
US08343079B2
A sensing device for detecting a muscle event includes a mechanical sensor, such as an accelerometer, that is configured to provide a signal corresponding to a mechanical movement of a muscle, a plurality of electrodes disposed on the sensing device; and a contact detection device coupled with the plurality of electrodes and configured to detect if the sensing device is in contact with a subject.
US08343074B2
Devices for determining the concentration of an analyte in a fluid are provided. Also provided are systems and kits for use in practicing the subject methods.
US08343068B2
An anchor for an implantable sensing device, a sensor unit formed by the anchor and sensing device, and a surgical procedure for implanting the sensor unit for monitoring a physiological parameter within a cavity of a living body, such as an intracranial physiological property. The anchor includes a shank portion and a head portion. The shank portion defines a distal end of the anchor and has a bore defining an opening at the distal end. The head portion defines a proximal end of the anchor and has a larger cross-sectional dimension than the shank portion. The sensor unit comprises the anchor and the sensing device placed and secured within the bore of the anchor so that a sensing element of the sensing device is exposed for sensing the physiological parameter within the cavity.
US08343067B2
A system for quantifying and mapping visual salience to a visual stimulus, including a processor, software for receiving data indicative of a group of individual's ocular responses to a visual stimulus, software for determining a distribution of visual resources at each of at least two times for each of at least a portion of the individuals. The system further including software for determining and quantifying a group distribution of visual resources at each of the at least two times and software for generating a display of the group's distribution of visual resources to the visual stimulus.
US08343065B2
A method of detecting an induced muscle response includes monitoring a mechanical parameter of a muscle; computing an amount of muscle jerk from the monitored parameter; comparing the computed muscle jerk to a jerk threshold; and identifying the occurrence of an induced muscle response if the computed muscle jerk exceeds the threshold.
US08343062B2
A system and method of digital control for a blood pressure measurement system is provided. According to at least one embodiment, a photo-plethysmographic (PPG) system produces a frequency signal that corresponds to the measured light in the PPG system. Such light may be indicative of blood volume in a vein or artery. The frequency signal may be used to control one or more pressure valves of the system in order to measure blood pressure and hold the frequency signal constant.
US08343057B2
A method and apparatus for monitoring changes in the intra-thoracic pressure of a patient due to the patient's respiratory activity or volumetric changes in the extra-thoracic arterial circulatory system due to cardiac function based on the changes in pressure in the patient's extra-thoracic arterial circulatory system as measured by a plethysmography sensor, such as an photoplethysmograph. A frequency spectrum is generated for the plethysmograph signal and the frequencies of interest is isolated from the frequency spectrum by setting appropriate cutoff frequencies for the frequency spectrum. This isolated frequency is used to filter the plethysmograph signal to provide a signal indicative of the patient's respiratory activity or cardiac function.
US08343054B1
Systems and methods are described to create a plurality of ultrasound images of an area, each of the plurality of ultrasound images acquired using a respective beam steering angle, determine, for each of a plurality of image pixel locations in each of the plurality of ultrasound images, a value of an image pixel located at an image pixel location, identify, for each of the plurality of image pixel locations, a value among the plurality of values determined for the pixel location other than the largest value of the plurality of values determined for the pixel location, and create a first output image in which each of the plurality of image pixel locations of the output image includes an image pixel having the value identified for the image pixel location.
US08343052B2
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of measuring a three-dimensional motion of a biological tissue in a short time. An image processor creates volume data based on image data of a B-mode image of a biological tissue and creates image data of a series of tomographic images in time series for the respective two or more sectional positions based on the volume data. A controller displays one tomographic image for each sectional position on a display part. A user operates an operation part to designate a measurement image region on the displayed tomographic image. A displacement calculating part calculates a displacement in time series of the designated measurement image region for each sectional position. A motion information calculating part calculates motion information of the biological tissue based on the displacement of the measurement image region calculated for each sectional position.
US08343048B2
The present invention provides a surgical retractor system in which first and second retractor blades are maintained in spaced relationship by a third retractor blade engaged with the first and second retractor blades. The first and second retractor blades are moveable between a first position in which they are nearer one another and a second position in which they are further from one another. The third retractor blade is engageable with the first and second retractor blades in the second position to maintain the first and second retractor blades in the second position. The first, second, and third retractor blades define an open space between them in which a minimally invasive surgical procedure may be carried out.
US08343047B2
Embodiments of an access device system useful for single or limited port procedures includes a retractor and a gel cap removably coupled to the retractor. The gel cap includes a gel pad that acts as an artificial body wall, through which instruments may be inserted into a body cavity, either directly or through one or more trocars. The gel pad permits flexible instrument placement, as well as translational and angular degrees of freedom for the instruments while maintaining a gas tight seal.
US08343045B2
The cross section of a curved portion of a curved cannula is oval shaped. The oval is oriented such that a major axis of the oval is generally aligned with the curved portion's bend radius. In one aspect, the cannula tube is ovalized so that the radius of curvature of an interior wall approaches the outer radius of an instrument component that contacts the curved portion during instrument insertion. In this first aspect, a wider contact patch area between the instrument component and the cannula results, which reduces friction and stick-slip during insertion. In another aspect, the cannula tube is ovalized so that the radius of curvature of an interior wall is less than the outer radius of an instrument component that contacts the curved portion during instrument insertion. In this second aspect, two contact patches are established between the instrument component and cannula, which also reduces friction and stick-slip during instrument insertion. Also disclosed is a cannula orientation marking that changes circumferential orientation along a length the curved cannula to help a person who is inserting the cannula to properly twist the cannula during insertion.
US08343041B2
Endoscope assemblies, biopsy caps, and methods for making and using the same. An example endoscope assembly may include an endoscope having a channel formed therein and a port that provides access to the channel. A cap may be coupled to the port. The cap may include a base having a securing member for securing the cap to the port, an outer shell, a locking member coupled to the outer shell, an inner seal member, and a central opening that extends to the channel. The inner seal member may include a plurality of flaps.
US08343037B2
An endoscope apparatus including an insertion portion for insertion into a body cavity; an image-acquisition unit disposed at a tip thereof that acquires an image of the inside of the body cavity; an insertion-length measuring unit disposed at a base end of the insertion portion that measures an insertion length of the insertion portion inside the body cavity; a storage unit that stores the image acquired by the image-acquisition unit in association with the insertion length measured by the insertion-length measuring unit; a following decision unit that determines whether insertion movement at the tip follows insertion movement at the base end; and a correcting unit that corrects the insertion length of the insertion portion associated with the acquired image to cancel a change in the insertion length measured in a non-following period on the basis of the result of that determination.
US08343035B2
Dilators with a threaded distal portion and direct visualization capability may be used for penetrating and dilating stiff tissues and bones. The threaded portion of a dilator engages the tissue between the insertion site and the target site, and may be rotated for advancing through the target tissue in a more controlled fashion. The direct visualization capability may be used to visualize the ligament as the threaded distal portion passes through the ligamentum flavum. The devices and methods described may be used in procedures, for example, where ligaments surrounding the epidural space need to be dilated in order to deliver one or more surgical instruments into the epidural space.
US08343034B2
The electric medical instrument fitting is attached to a medical instrument holding device. The electric medical instrument fitting includes a fitting body, drive units for a plurality of second medical instruments, and an intermediate member. The fitting body has a fitting portion that enables attachment/detachment of a first medical instrument which can be arranged with an observation device and provided with channel holes for inserting treatment instruments, or which is provided with an observation device. The drive units for the second medical instruments can each be detachably connected with each second medical instrument provided with an insertion portion to be inserted into each channel hole, with a treatment portion being provided on the side of a distal end thereof. Each of the drive units for the second medical instruments is provided with a joint driver, an advancing/retreating driver and a rotation driver, for changing the position and the posture of the treatment portion. Each of the drive units for the second medical instruments has a center of gravity set at a predetermined position of a roll axis of the rotation driver, with the position of the roll axis being apart from a fitting surface by a predetermined distance. The intermediate member is arranged at the fitting body which is attached with the plurality of medical instrument drive units, a center of gravity of the entirety being set on an extension line of a center axis of the fitting portion.
US08343024B1
A machine for transitioning a box cutout from a flat configuration to a collapsed box configuration includes a first drive wheel configured to drive a box cutout towards a plunging area; a plunger configured to apply force to a central portion of a bottom panel of the box cutout so as to fold the box about a lateral bisecting axis and propel at least a portion of the box cutout downward; and opposed second and third drive wheels configured to grab a box cutout propelled downward by the plunger and further draw the box cutout downward into a collapsed box configuration within a collection area. A box cutout transitioned to a collapsed box configuration in this manner may include a bottom panel having plurality of unbroken minor score lines and broken major score lines.
US08343023B2
The invention relates to a method for producing an outer box and a drawer for packaging purposes, and to a corresponding device for producing the outer box and drawer. A first machine produces the outer box, a second machine produces the drawer, and a shared main drive drives the devices of the first machine and the second machine. The first and second machines transform flat blanks into an outer box and a drawer respectively, by a series folding and welding steps.
US08343010B2
A method and system for automated manual transmission shift methodologies for coasting conditions are disclosed. A coast condition is detected in a vehicle having a transmission that couples prime mover power from a transmission input to a transmission output at a plurality of different gear ratios. A target gear ratio is selected based on the power loss attributes associated with each gear ratio. Each gear ratio is associated with a power loss attribute indicative of a power loss between the transmission input and transmission output when prime mover power is coupled from the transmission input to the transmission output using that gear ratio. The transmission is shifted from a current gear ratio to the target gear ratio if the target and current gear ratios differ. By selecting the target gear ratio, vehicle fuel efficiency is improved, while keeping the vehicle under constant prime mover braking or continuous prime mover control.
US08343005B2
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, two planetary gear sets, another two planetary gear sets that may be stacked or nested to form a planetary gear set assembly, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The stacked or nested planetary gear set assembly has a carrier member for rotatably supporting a first plurality of pinion gears and a second plurality of pinion gears, a ring gear and a common member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
US08343004B2
A powertrain of an automatic transmission includes a first planetary gear set having first, second, and third operating members, a second planetary gear set having fourth, fifth, and sixth operating members, and third planetary gear set having seventh, eighth, and ninth operating members, the fourth and seventh operating members being fixedly interconnected, the fifth and ninth operating members being fixedly interconnected, the third and eighth operating members being selectively interconnected, the second and seventh operating members being selectively interconnected, the second and sixth operating members being selectively interconnected, wherein a transmission case is fixedly connected to the first operating member and selectively connected to the seventh and eighth operating members, an input shaft is fixedly connected to the third operating member and selectively connected to the seventh operating member, and an output shaft is fixedly connected to the ninth operating member.
US08342999B2
A transmission having a plurality of tilting balls and opposing input and output discs provides an infinite number of speed combinations over its transmission ratio range. The transmission provides multiple powerpaths and can be combined with electrical components to provide motor/generator functionality, which reduces the overall size and complexity of the motor and transmission compared to when they are constructed separately. In one embodiment, rotatable components of a continuously variable transmission are coupled separately to an electrical rotor and to an electrical stator so that the rotor and stator rotate simultaneously in opposite directions relative to one another. In other embodiments, an electrical rotor is configured to transfer torque to or from a disc that is in contact with a plurality of speed adjusters, while an electrical stator is configured to transfer torque to a shaft that is operationally coupled to the speed adjusters via an idler.
US08342991B2
A play ball comprising an outer casing having two adjacent openings, a vent and a balloon is provided. The outer casing is substantially non-porous. An uninflated balloon is inserted into the outer casing through an opening. During inflation of the balloon, air from within the outer casing is vented. A handle is attached to the outer casing through the adjacent openings in the casing. The handle is stretchable and can be in the form of an elastomeric band.
US08342983B1
A golf putter comprising a body including a front face, and a rearward member joined to and extending rearwardly from the body and comprising a lower region, and a first cleat and a second cleat extending downwardly from the lower region. The first and second cleats may be positioned to extend downwardly along first and second cleat axes, such that a line segment extending between the cleat axes is parallel to the front face of the club body. The putter may be further comprised of a shaft joined to a top portion of the body and having a central axis which intersects a line segment extending from a junction of the first cleat with the lower region of the rearward member to a junction of the second cleat with the lower region of the rearward member. The central axis of the shaft may be substantially perpendicular to the line segment.
US08342978B2
A start timing instructing device includes a sensor attachable to the body of a player to detect changes in angle and/or acceleration associated with a backswing movement of the player. A variable resistor sets a start timing associated with a predetermined angle and/or acceleration data and has a volume by which the set start timing is adjustable. A microprocessor calculates an angle and/or acceleration data of the backswing movement based on the detected angle and/or acceleration and generates a start timing instruction if the calculated angle and/or acceleration data meet the angle and/or acceleration data which have been set and adjusted through the variable resistor and the volume. The microprocessor controls a stimulator attached to the body of the player to generate a vibration, sound or electric stimulation upon receiving the start timing instruction so as to inform the player of the body start timing for the downswing.
US08342975B1
One embodiment of an occupant propelled roundabout (“roundabout”) may have a body. The roundabout may also have a carrier, which may be rotatably carried by the body and may also have a seat assembly adapted to carry an occupant. In addition, the roundabout may also have a drive mechanism pivotally coupled to the seat assembly such that the drive mechanism may be movable between a deployed position and a retracted position. The drive mechanism may be moved toward the deployed position in response to the occupant operating the drive mechanism. Also, the roundabout may have a biasing member, which may be operably connected between the drive mechanism and the carrier so that the biasing member may move the drive mechanism toward the retracted position.
US08342973B2
A sliding joint for motor vehicles, having an inner race which includes inner running grooves, an outer race which includes outer running grooves, a cage, and balls. The inner running grooves are constructed parallel to each other in the axial dimension and include a displacement segment and a functional segment, and the outer running grooves are likewise constructed parallel to each other in the axial dimension and also include a displacement segment and a functional segment.
US08342971B2
A fixed type constant velocity universal joint secures smooth rotation and reduces a load on a cage even at a large operating angle and when bearing large torque. The universal joint includes an outer joint member having an inner spherical surface in which track grooves are circumferentially formed in an axial direction and an inner joint member having an outer spherical surface in which track grooves paired with the track grooves of the outer joint member are circumferentially formed in the axial direction and multiple outer spherical surface portions circumferentially arranged. Balls are interposed between the track grooves of the outer and inner joint members for transmitting torque. A cage is interposed between the inner spherical surface and the outer spherical surface for retaining the balls. A spherical surface angle of the outer spherical surface on a joint opening side is set to 12.5° or more.
US08342965B2
A recorded medium comprises a FLASH program module including FLASH program module graphic data and action scripts associated with the FLASH program module graphic data. The FLASH program module analyzes the FLASH program module graphic data and the action scripts. A platform program installed on a client transmits the functionality necessary for game processing through communication with a game server. When a user requests information which requires communication with the game server, the FLASH program module provides a parameter associated with the user request to the platform program. The platform program analyzes the parameter, requests the information from the game server and provides the information to the FLASH program module.
US08342963B2
A method for controlling an artificial-intelligence (AI) character includes entering a command mode which enables control of the AI character, and occurs while substantially maintaining an existing display of the game, thereby preserving the immersive experience of the video game for the player. A plurality of locations are sequentially specified within a virtual space of the game, the plurality of locations defining a path for the AI character. The AI character is moved along the path to the plurality of locations in the order they were specified. The plurality of locations may be specified by maneuvering a reticle, and selecting each of the locations. A node can be displayed in the existing display of the game at each of the plurality of locations. A series of lines connecting the nodes can also be displayed in the existing display of the game.
US08342957B2
A convertible in-revenue and out-of-revenue gaming system is disclosed that includes a server connected to automatically convert operating modes and control in-revenue and out-of-revenue operation of one or more banks of gaming machines wherein each of the gaming machines includes a video camera connected to capture live player video feed during competition or tournament operating mode, and each of the gaming machines is operable to display a tournament game presentation simultaneously with a player dashboard. The player dashboard includes a display of the live player video, the player position, the player score, and remaining time in the competition or tournament.
US08342954B2
A gaming system and method provides wagering control features for application in multi-stakes, multi-player wagering games. Players have the option to choose one of a plurality of different modes at the beginning of a gaming session. Depending on which mode is selected, the wagering control feature or features available to players during game play will be different.
US08342951B2
A method of rewarding a game player of a game can target particular types of offers to a player. A usage profile is determined for the player, which can be based on interaction between the player and items or goals in a game. Player information is identified, such as player statistics or categorization of the player. A category is selected for the player, based on the usage profile and the player information for the player. An offer is then selected from a group of offers, wherein the offer is for a real world object, service or event.
US08342949B2
In accordance with at least one embodiment, a gaming system is operable to determine a first gaming device being operated by a player and select a second gaming device to be controlled, via the first gaming device, by the player. In some embodiments, the gaming system is further operable to configure the second gaming device to be controlled via an interface of the first gaming device.
US08342930B2
When a piece 6a has stopped at an empty element 3, a castle 10 can be built at the element, and ownership can be set to the element. When another piece 6b has stopped at the element to which the ownership has been set, a sub-game is executed so that a player who owns the castle 10 (element 3), another player who uses a piece 6b, and a third player who uses a piece 6c that is positioned within a given range from the castle 10 participate in the sub-game. When the player who owns the castle 10 has won the sub-game, the player can collect the cost of staying from the player who uses the piece 6b. When the player who uses the piece 6b has won the sub-game, the player who uses the piece 6b can acquire the ownership of the castle 10.
US08342928B1
Games and devices for playing games based on market simulations are described. The games may use real market data or may simulate markets using real data. Other games may use guesses from a large number of other players to simulate the market. One embodiment is described where real estate markets are the basis for a game. The value of the real estate may be determined by actual sales prices or valuations, by automated valuation models of the sales or valuation of similar items, or from a “wisdom of the crowd” algorithm. In one embodiment, the wisdom of the crowd algorithm uses a segmented authority model to make the pricing algorithm more robust.
US08342913B2
The invention relates to an orbital apparatus (20) for machining of a revolution metallic wall, of the type comprising a fixed annular plate (30) coaxially mounted on a universal support and having a peripheral annular electric collector (35) and an annular plate (50) rotationally mobile and coaxially mounted on the fixed annular plate (30). The mobile annular plate (50) carries a set of electrical contacts (55) cooperating with the electrical collector (35), means (60) for rotationally driving the plate (50), means (70) for machining the metallic wall and pneumatic feeder means (80) to apply and maintain the machining means (70) on the metallic wall.
US08342885B2
An inline fuse holder for housing a fuse that electrically connects first and second wire terminals is provided. The inline fuse holder can generally include a cannulated fuse holder housing having a cylindrical inner periphery. The fuse holder housing can have a first end that defines a first opening, and a second end that defines a second opening. The first and second ends comprise first locking features. A first wire connector includes a connector housing that defines a through bore. The connector housing can have a boss configured to be received by the first opening of the fuse holder housing. The first wire connector further includes a second locking feature that is configured to selectively lock with one of the first locking features in the installed position.
US08342884B2
An LED light assembly includes a plurality of LED printed circuit boards (PCB), with each LED PCB having at least one LED bulb and electrical connector pads configured at each opposite end of the boards. A top loading two-component surface mount electrical connector is configured to connect one end of a first LED PCB to an end of a second said LED PCB such that the first and second LED PCBs are electrically connected in an abutting end-to-end configuration. The connected LED PCBs may be configured in a light tube that includes connector end caps for mounting the light tube in a light fixture.
US08342883B2
There is provided an electric power supply connecting device for a parameterizable electrical apparatus, comprising a first connector for an electric power source, a second connector to the electrical apparatus and a storage device for parameter data which can be read out by the electrical apparatus.
US08342882B2
A USB interface device includes a USB connector electrically connected with a circuit board through pins. A shielding frame is attached to a joint between the USB connector and the circuit board and covering the pins. The shielding frame is a frame body having a first opening at a part thereof attached to the circuit board and a second opening at a part thereof attached to the USB connector.
US08342879B2
A connector used in coaxial cable communication applications, and more specifically to coaxial connectors having features for sealing against environmental contaminants, facilitating effective attachment to a corresponding interface port, and improving the efficiency of structures and processes for attaching the connectors to coaxial cables. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.
US08342874B2
An electrical connector assembly includes a first and second connector and locking members. The first connector defines a mating surface and two rows of first terminals along a lateral direction. Each row is arranged along a longitudinal direction. The first terminals include elastic contacting portions projecting beyond the mating surface. The second connector defines a receiving space to receive said first connector and includes two rows of second terminals. The locking members are formed in a same shape and each comprises a retention portion and a latch portion. The first and the second connectors define at least one receiving slot between two rows of passageways and extending in the longitudinal direction, the locking members are retained in the receiving slots respectively, the locking member located in the first connector is hid in the slot and the locking member located in the second connector projecting perpendicularly beyond the bottom surface.
US08342859B2
An electronic component includes: a first substrate having a through-hole; a second substrate opposite the first substrate; a sealing member surrounding a sealing space formed between the first substrate and the second substrate; a functional element having at least a part thereof disposed in the sealing space, and a through-electrode filling the through-hole, the through-hole penetrating the first substrate. The sealing member includes an elastic core part on the first substrate. A metal film is on a surface of the core part and is bonded to the second substrate.
US08342856B2
A charging connector (10) has terminal fittings (20) including female-side main portions (21) connectable to a vehicle-side terminal (60) and having a wire (W) connected to the rear end of the main portion (21). Terminal accommodating portions (15) are formed internally with cavities (17) for accommodating the terminal fittings (20). Seals (30) are sandwiched between facing inner walls of the cavities (17) and the main portions (21). Wire accommodating portions (11, 12) are behind the terminal accommodating portions (15) for accommodating the wires (W) in a state where reaction forces push the terminal fittings (20) forward. Each terminal fitting (20) is biased constantly forward by the reaction force of the wire W against a frictional force with the seal ring (30), thereby being arranged at a frontmost position where the front end of the main portion (21) and a front wall (17A) of the cavity (17) are in contact.
US08342846B2
A Braille writing device capable of processing information, comprises a motherboard (10) including a plurality of Braille cells (11) arranged in rows and columns, each cell consists of six dot-shaped recesses or pinholes, a sub-board (20) is configured to be inserted into a flute (12) being provided at each of left and right margins of the motherboard and moveable along the flute, a plurality of marks (13) are provided on an outer surface of the flutes (12), and a detent member (30) is formed between each two of the marks (13) in the inner side of the flute (12) and configured to prevent the moveable sub-board from being moved during writing. A Braille information processor (40) is fixed on a concave formed on the backside of the motherboard (10), comprising a circuit board (41), a central processing unit (42), a plurality of Braille trigger switch groups (44) each of which consists of six trigger switches (43), and an infrared transmitter (45). The Braille information processor can be coupled to a PDA or computer.
US08342845B2
A method, comprising the steps of (a) representing users within a virtual environment, the virtual environment residing on one or more computers, comprising the steps of (b) collecting data pertaining to one or more of the users' activities not associated with the virtual environment relating to each of the users' performance on business-related tasks, (c) awarding incentives including points, badges, levels, prizes, etc. to a plurality of users in the virtual environment based on the collected data pertaining to the users, (d) providing information regarding a first user's incentives to at least a second user involved in activities related to the business-related tasks performed by the first user, and (e) updating the collected data in the virtual environment as the data pertaining to the performance of users changes.
US08342839B2
An assembly is provided whereby a candle holder is supported within a bottle and the bottle has no bottom and a single assembly supports both the candle holder and bottle.
US08342838B2
A mold includes upper and lower mold members, an upper-side slider pushing member, a slider, and an ejector rod. The upper-side slider pushing member is secured on the upper mold member. The lower mold member defines a movement space. The slider is slidably mounted on the lower mold member, and forms outer and inner angled surfaces. The ejector rod is movably mounted on the lower mold member. The ejector rod extends into the movement space and is driven by the push bar. The ejector rod and the upper-side slider pushing member are respectively engageable and thus pushing the inner and outer angled surfaces of the slider to cause the slider to slide on the lower mold member. The mold keeps the slider in a closed state while the mold is being opened, thereby preventing molded products from sticking to an upper mold member and saving internal space for the sliders.
US08342835B2
A seal ring whose abutment joint portion is opened is fitted into an annular gap while the abutment joint portion is substantially closed. The annular gap is formed between an inner circumferential surface of a hole portion provided in an outer circumferential jig and an outer circumferential surface of an inner circumferential jig disposed in the hole portion, and has a heating region and a cooling region. The seal ring is passed through the heating region and then passed through the cooling region in the annular gap. The outer circumferential jig and the inner circumferential jig are maintained at a constant temperature higher than a glass transition temperature of a resin material for the seal ring in the heating region, and maintained at a constant temperature lower than the glass transition temperature of the resin material for the seal ring in the cooling region.
US08342832B2
A ball cover shaping mold of a baseball or softball is constructed from two corresponding figure of 8 shaped mold pieces. These two mold pieces fit together to form a mold of the outside of the ball cover of a softball or baseball, and these two mold pieces are constructed from a soft material. Where these two mold pieces join are the seams, and on the inside side of the seams, grooves are set to form the raised sewn section on the ball cover, and an material inlet and an air outlet is situated where these two pieces join. PU material is used in the mold to construct the ball cover. The soft mold pieces are easy to remove and moreover, the grooves set on the inside seams of the figure of 8 shaped mold pieces form the raised sewn section on the outside of the ball cover where the two mold pieces join, thereby fulfilling the required outside appearance of the ball. The raised sewn section is situated along the mold lines, eliminating the need to further repair and trim the ball to achieve the required outside appearance of the ball, this structure of the mold being simple, and meticulously designed, therefore allowing for easy formation of the ball cover, and additional work procedures are simplified, hugely increasing the production rate of baseballs and softballs, and thereby raising the competitiveness of the product on the market.
US08342829B2
The invention relates to a multi step helical screw compressor unit which consists of a drive housing (90), wherein a first, second, and third helical screw compressor (60, 70, 80) are secured in a protruding manner parallel to each other and are driven together by a drive toothed wheel in the drive housing. A gas-like fluid is compressed by the first helical screw compressor (60) at a first intermediate pressure of approximately 3.5 bars, by the second helical screw compressor (70) at a second intermediate pressure of approximately 12 bars and by the third helical screw compressor (80) at an end pressure of approximately 40 bars. The driven toothed wheels (65, 75) of the first and the second helical screw compressors are in contact with the drive toothed wheel (95) above the axes thereof, when the driven toothed wheel (85) of the third helical screw compressor (80) is in contact with the drive toothed wheel (95) in the vicinity of the deepest point thereof (T). The position of the axis of the drive toothed wheel (95) can be modified horizontally, and the position of the driven toothed wheel (85) of the third helical compressor (80) can be modified vertically, in order to install a wheel set having various diameter ratios.
US08342827B2
Disclosed are a hermetic compressor and a refrigeration cycle device having the same. An oil separator for separating oil from a refrigerant is installed outside a casing. The oil separated by the oil separator is recollected into the casing by an oil pump driven by a driving force of a driving motor. The oil is recollected from the refrigerant and fabrication costs are be reduced. A cooling capability of the refrigeration cycle device is enhanced, the compressor has a simplified configuration, and the fabrication costs are reduced. Because an outlet of a discharge opening through which oil is discharged to the casing from the oil pump is installed at a position lower than a minimum level of oil in the casing, the refrigerant is prevented from backflowing into an oil passage, and the occurrence of air bubbles on the surface of oil in the compressor may be prevented.
US08342824B2
A piston compressor, particularly a refrigerant compressor includes a compression chamber in a compressor block, the compression chamber being delimited by a cylinder head (10), the cylinder head (10) comprising at least one valve plate arrangement with at least one suction valve (23, 24) and at least one pressure valve (21, 22), as well as a valve cover (12). To achieve low manufacturing costs, though maintaining a good efficiency, the valve plate arrangement (16) is formed by a carrier plate (17) that comprises the suction valve (23, 24, 26, 27) and the pressure valve (18, 19, 21, 22) and is connected by at least one gas-tight connection seam (28, 31) to the valve cover (12), the connection seam (28, 31) separating a suction area (32) and a pressure area (29, 30) from one another and sealing at least the pressure area (29, 30) towards the outside.
US08342823B2
Disclosed is a sludge suction apparatus for an offshore structure. The sludge suction apparatus includes a housing having an upper mounting hole and a lower mounting hole; a suction valve installed in the lower mounting hole in line with a suction hole to selectively suck sludge according to variation of internal pressure of the housing; an exhaust valve installed in the upper mounting hole to communicate with the exhaust hole and aligned coaxially with the suction valve to exhaust the sludge to an outside through the exhaust hole; a valve port coupled to an upper portion of the upper mounting hole and formed with a fixing groove coupled with an upper portion of the exhaust valve; and a piston assembly fixedly coupled with the coupling section and reciprocated in forward and rearward directions to operate the suction valve and the exhaust valve.
US08342820B2
Disclosed is a cryogenic fluid circulation pump that is capable of preventing heat from permeating into a cryogenic fluid by convection during the circulation of the cryogenic fluid by the pump and, at the same time, minimizing the transfer of heat to the cryogenic fluid circulating through a shaft rotating to rotate the pump. The cryogenic fluid circulation pump includes a magnet pump unit mounted in a vacuum chamber having an introduction channel and a discharge channel formed therein to prevent heat from permeating into the cryogenic fluid by convection for rotating by a magnetic force to circulate the cryogenic fluid, when a rotary force from a power source is transmitted to the magnet pump unit.
US08342819B2
A mounting apparatus for a cooling device is disclosed. The mounting apparatus includes a plurality of connectors extending outwardly from the cooling device. The mounting apparatus also includes at least one mounting post coupled to the plurality of connectors and configured to mount the cooling device on a substrate.
US08342816B2
Engine-driven hydraulic pump for an aircraft, having a first and a second pump unit which each comprise an adjustable swash plate and a piston assembly coupled with said swash plate and driven by a pump shaft, a control device for adjusting the inclination of the swash plate and a drive shaft via which the hydraulic pump can be driven by an engine of the aircraft while generating hydraulic pressure at an outlet line, characterized in that the pump units are arranged in parallel and have a respective pump shaft, which pump shafts are coupled with the drive shaft by a gear unit.
US08342809B2
A device for a runner (1) for a fluid machine comprising a runner hub (2) and a number of blades (4) distributed around the centre axis (8) of the runner (1), each blade (4) being detachably connected to the runner (1).
US08342807B2
An elevation angle adjustment structure for a shaft of a wind power generator, including a shaft bridged between two piers and an elevation angle adjustment unit disposed on one of the piers. The elevation angle adjustment unit serves to incline the shaft from a horizontal position and adjust the elevation angle of the shaft.
US08342801B2
The invention concerns a method for controlling of at least one element of a first component of a wind turbine and a control device not permanently belonging to the wind turbine wherein the control device is connected to a communication interface of the first component for supporting the mounting of the first component and a second component of the wind turbine with each other and/or for the purpose of service of the wind turbine. Moreover the invention concerns the use of the control device for controlling of at least one element of a first component of a wind turbine during the mounting of the first component and a second component of the wind turbine with each other and/or during a service procedure of the wind turbine.
US08342797B2
In one embodiment, a gas turbine engine turbine flow member is described that contains a passageway having a flow obstruction that forms a tortuous passageway for the passage of a cooling fluid. The flow obstruction can include flow structures disposed toward either side of the passageway. In one non-limiting embodiment a flow structure can have a V-shape, and in another non-limiting embodiment the flow structure can have an elongate shape. As cooling fluid flows through the passageway it is encouraged to flow up, down, and/or along portions of the flow obstruction.
US08342792B2
Storing and retrieving articles in and from rack warehouses which are filled and emptied, wherein articles are stored on load supports at storage locations of at least one rack of rack warehouse comprises moving a storage and retrieval device, which is movable in a longitudinal direction of the rack and has a lifting table movable in height, to a receiving point of the rack; receiving a load support, which is loaded with an article, from the rack on a load suspension device of the storage and retrieval device; separating article from the received load support on the lifting table by means of a separation station; moving storage and retrieval device to hand-over point, where storage and retrieval device is coupled in a transverse direction of the rack to article conveyor extending in longitudinal direction of rack; and delivering separated article from lifting table to the article conveyor.
US08342791B2
The invention relates to a depalletizing device comprising a carriage as well as a friction roller attached to the carriage, which friction roller is rotatable about a horizontal rotation axis and is coupled to a rotational drive in order to rotate. The carriage can be moved to and fro in a direction at right angles to the rotation axis of the friction roller in order to push the friction roller against a side of an object on the pallet in such a manner that the friction roller exerts an upward friction force on the object as a result of which the object is raised on that side, and in order for the friction roller to pass underneath said object after the latter has been raised. The depalletizing device comprises drive means with variable driving power in order to drive the carriage. The drive means comprise detection means. The drive means are designed such that, when the carriage moves, it is driven with a power of not more than a base value and that, when the friction roller engages on the side of the object, the driving power is increased from that power until the detection means detect that the object has been raised. The power is then immediately reduced to the power of not more than the said base value when the detection means detect that the object has been raised sufficiently high.
US08342778B2
A vibratory pile driver configured to insert curved sheet pile beneath a conduit by rotating the pile driver about a fixed pivot element to advance the curved sheet pile along a fixed arc. In one exemplary embodiment, the distance between the fixed pivot element and the clamps that secured the curved sheet pile to the pile driver is the same as the radius of curvature of the curved sheet pile. In another exemplary embodiment, when the curved sheet pile is secured to the pile driver by the clamps, the center of the radius of curvature of the curved sheet pile lies substantially on the rotational axis of the fixed pivot element. In this embodiment, the vibratory pile driver may be rotated about the fixed pivot element to advance the curved sheet pile along an arc having curvature substantially identical to the radius of curvature of the curved sheet pile.
US08342776B2
An explosive-resistant mine seal, which includes a pair of block walls. An adhesive is provided between adjoining surfaces of the blocks where the adhesive has greater strength properties than the blocks themselves. A core member is provided between the two walls and is bound thereto. The adhesive may be coated over the walls to increase the strength of the mine seal.
US08342759B2
A barrier unit is provided that suppresses reflection of light at end faces of blades when the blades are in an open state and that prevents the blades from riding on top of each other. The barrier unit includes a base; and a pair of blades mounted on the base, the pair of blades being configured to be positioned in an open state and a closed state and to contact each other at predetermined end faces of the blades in the closed state. An inclined portion is provided at a central portion in a longitudinal direction, of each predetermined end face of the blades, the inclined portion defining a plane inclined with respect to an optical axis of a lens. A parallel portion is provided on both sides of the inclined portion of each predetermined end face of the blades, the parallel portion defining a plane parallel to the optical axis.
US08342757B2
An external rear-view camera unit for motor vehicles includes a camera and a support for such camera prearranged to be connected to a structure of a motor vehicle. The support includes at least one wing element, with a wing profile, having an end for connection to the structure of the motor vehicle and an opposite end portion bearing the body of the camera and ending with a winglet portion. A lower wing element and an upper wing element may be parallel and spaced from each other. The portion for supporting the body of the camera is in the form of a casing surrounding the body of said camera and having passages for conveying the air—that impacts said unit during the travel of the motor vehicle—around the body of said camera and at the front of the transparent element for protecting the camera lens.
US08342753B2
A system is disclosed for use in a rolling mill oil film bearing to remove oil exiting from between a rotating sleeve and a fixed bushing surrounding the sleeve. The system comprises an annular chamber arranged to receive the exiting flow of oil. The chamber is isolated from a drainage sump by confinement surfaces including a seal interface defined by a flexible seal in contact with an adjacent rigid component of the bearing. Impellers project into the chamber and are rotable with and at the velocity of the sleeve to rotatively propel oil around the chamber. A discharge conduit communicates tangentially with the chamber and is arranged to receive a pressurized flow of the oil being rotatively propelled around the chamber. A venturi is located in the discharge conduit. A suction conduit connects the venturi to the drainage sump. Oil escaping from the annular chamber past the seal interface into the drainage sump is aspirated by the venturi for removal via the conduit.
US08342750B2
A reusable and refoldable bag includes an integral locking mechanism that enables the bag to stay closed in a compact folded position (the folded position is about one-sixth to one-ninth of the original bag size compared to the bag when it is open and laid flat) when not in use and is easily opened when needed to carry contents. The integral locking mechanism includes a covering feature with a protected adhesive element and a flap with a mating adhesive element. In the folded position, the flap's adhesive element is placed under the covering feature and securely interlocks with the protected adhesive element. The locking mechanism can be disengaged and re-engaged for multiple reuses. The flap couples to a first side of the bag and extends outward from the bag. The covering feature couples to the first face adjacent to a top portion of the bag.
US08342747B2
A temperature sensing circuit of a semiconductor device includes a code signal generator, a comparator, a reference clock generator and a final temperature code signal generator. The code signal generator is configured to output a first count signal having an increase rate that varies according to a change in temperature. The comparator is configured to receive the first count signal and a control signal, compare the first count signal with the control signal and output a comparison signal. The reference clock generator is configured to generate a reference clock having a uniform period regardless of the change in temperature during an activation period of the comparison signal. The final temperature code signal generator is configured to count pulses of the reference clock, generate a second count signal, modify the second count signal using an offset value, and output the modified second count signal as a final temperature code signal.
US08342744B2
The differential scanning calorimeter includes: a heat sink, which stores a measuring sample and a reference material; a heater, which heats the heat sink; a cooling block, which is separated away from the heat sink, and positioned below the heat sink; a thermal resistor, which is connected between the heat sink and the cooling block, and forms a heat flow path therebetween; a cooling head, which is detachably fitted to the cooling block, and is cooled by an external cooling device; and differential heat flow detectors, which output a temperature difference between the measuring sample and the reference material as a heat-flow-difference signal, in which: the cooling block forms a side wall to fit the bore of the cooling head outward from the joint of the thermal resistance body; the top surface of the cooling head is lower than the joint.
US08342743B2
The invention relates to a method for testing a rotor blade (13.1) of a wind power plant (1), which sweeps across a rotor blade surface to be covered during operation of the wind power plant, comprising the following steps: emitting a target light beam (20), in particular a target light beam having a power density, in a direction of the target light beam onto the rotor blade surface to be covered; detecting a possible reflection of the target light beam by a detection device at a point of incidence (16) on the rotor blade; electrically controlled emission of a measurement laser beam (21) which has a power density that is larger than the power density of the target light beam immediately after detection of the reflection at the point of incidence so that the rotor blade is heated at the point of incidence; measuring a temperature distribution at the point of incidence; and repeating the steps (a) to (d) for several points of incidence.
US08342741B2
A method is disclosed for operating a sensor arrangement having at least one measuring sensor and at least one reference sensor for recording the same physical variable, and having an analysis unit electrically connected thereto, with a characteristic of the sensor arrangement being recorded in an initialization phase from measured values of the at least one measuring sensor and of the at least one reference sensor, and an alarm being given during continuous operation if the deviation from the characteristic lies outside a tolerance band. It is proposed to suspend the alarm dynamically so long as the changes in the measured value in the variation over time of the at least one measuring sensor or in the variation over time of the at least one reference sensor differ by more than a definable limit within a definable time interval.
US08342733B2
A lighting assembly for a light emitting diode (LED) package having an LED chip on the top of a mounting substrate with power leads on the top of the mounting substrate arranged proximate to a first edge of the mounting substrate, which is mounted to a base, includes power contacts defining separable interfaces for contacting the power leads on the mating substrate of the LED package and supplying power to the LED chip. The power contacts have compliant beams extending to the separable interfaces that are deflected when contacting the power leads such that the power contacts are biased against the power leads. The power contacts are terminated to corresponding power conductors opposite the separable interfaces. The lighting assembly also includes a dielectric housing holding the power contacts, with the housing having mounting features for securing the housing to the base independent of the LED package.
US08342723B2
A headlamp having a selectable beam is provided. The headlamp having the selectable beam is configured such that a low beam and a high beam are selectable, and the headlamp includes a first lamp section which forms a low-beam light distribution pattern if the low beam is selected; a second lamp section which forms a high-beam light distribution pattern if the high beam is selected; and a control unit which controls the second lamp section based on an inclination angle of a body on which the headlamp is mounted.
US08342721B2
A recessed luminaire with adjustable socket assembly in a housing having a sidewall a top wall and a lower opening allowing light output. A socket adjustment assembly is disposed in the housing, The socket adjustment assembly has a lamp socket connected to a socket carriage, and a track having a socket carriage movably positioned on the track. The carriage moves along the track and the lamp socket is movable in a vertical and/or a horizontal direction.
US08342712B2
An apparatus creating a flickering flame effect. The apparatus includes a housing with an interior space with first and second stages. A drive mechanism generates a time varying electromagnetic field extending into the first stage. A first pendulum member is pivotally mounted in the interior space of the first stage and includes first and second magnets on first and second ends, with the first end proximate to the drive mechanism such that the first magnet interacts with the varying electromagnetic field to cause movement of the pendulum member. The apparatus includes a second pendulum member pivotally mounted in the second stage with a magnet on a first end proximate to the second end of the first pendulum member. A flame silhouette element extends from the second pendulum member, and a light source transmits light onto the flame silhouette, which is moving due to the magnetic coupling of the pendulum members.
US08342706B2
An exemplary LED lamp includes a central member, lamp bodies, a solar panel transforming solar power to electric energy, and a supporting member supporting the solar panel over the central member. Each lamp body includes a housing and an LED module received in the housing. The housings of the lamp bodies have bottoms thereof mounted around the central member and have tops thereof extending upwardly and outwardly from the central member. Each of the housings defines an opening facing away from the central member. Light generated by the LED modules projects out of the lamp bodies through the openings. The solar panel provides the electric energy to the LED modules.
US08342702B2
A mount structure of a vehicle door mirror on a side door, the side door including: a door body having an outer panel and an inner panel which are joined together; and a door sash provided at an upper part of the door body so as to form an outer frame of the door body, wherein a door mirror mounting unit which mounts the door mirror is provided at an upper edge of the door body and at a vehicle front side of the door sash.
US08342697B2
To provide a light source unit which can enhance luminance and a projector, a projector of the invention includes a light source unit comprising a luminescent wheel with luminescent light emitting portions to emit blue and green rays, a primary light source shining an excitation light to the luminescent light emitting portions, a secondary light source emitting a red ray, a light guiding optical system guiding the rays from the luminescent wheel and the ray from the secondary light source to the same optical path and a light source control means controlling the emissions from the respective light sources, wherein the light source control means turns on the secondary light source when the ray from the primary light source is shone onto a boundary between the luminescent light emitting portions to synthesize the rays from the luminescent wheel and the ray from the secondary light source to generate white ray.
US08342695B2
A discharge lamp lighting apparatus comprises a discharge lamp and a power supply the discharge lamp can be switched between a steady power lighting mode, which drives the discharge lamp by an alternating current in which first and second polarities are repeated by turns, and a low power lighting mode, which drives the discharge lamp at 50% or less of the alternating current of the steady power lighting mode, and the alternating current comprises a first time unit, which has a time width t1, and second time unit, which has a time width t2, that are repeated by turns to drive the discharge lamp.
US08342685B2
System and methods for testing and/or training a subject's visual perception span and/or speed are provided. More specifically, a method may include testing/training various aspects of the subject's visual perception span/speed through the use of assessments that test the subject's ability to receive and retain information that is flashed in front of them. By using various assessments, an efficient examination may be administered. In accordance with the invention, an individual may be subjected to such a method of testing/training comprising: presenting one or more two-dimensional representations to the subject at a first time; receiving input responses from the subject at a second time; and processing the received input responses to provide a measure of the perception span of the subject; and processing the time between the first time and the second time to provide a measure of the perception speed of the subject.
US08342681B2
Computer eyewear for reducing the effects of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). In one embodiment, the eyewear comprises a frame and two lenses. In some embodiments, the frame and lenses have a wrap-around design to reduce air flow in the vicinity of the eyes. The lenses can have optical power in the range of approximately +0.5 to +2.5 diopters for reducing accommodation demands on a user's eyes when using a computer. The lenses can also include prismatic power for reducing convergence demand on a user's eyes when sitting at a computer. The lenses can also include a partially transmissive mirror coating, tinting, and anti-reflective coatings. In one embodiment, a partially transmissive mirror coating or tinting spectrally filters light to remove spectral peaks in fluorescent or incandescent lighting.
US08342678B2
An image is recorded by ejecting two or more ink compositions on a porous layer that contains inorganic microparticles and a water-soluble resin and has a porosity [%] of 50% or more with a maximum total ejection amount (mL/m2) set at less than 90% of an absorption capacity (mL/m2) of diethylene glycol in the porous layer. The porosity=(absorption capacity of diethylene glycol (mL/m2))/(thickness of porous layer (μm))×100. The maximum total ejection amount=(maximum ejection amount of one dot (mL/m2))×(total amount of ink (%)). An inkjet recording method capable of inhibiting color change from occurring to cause color irregularities when papers are stacked on an image portion within a relatively short time after recording in high-speed processing or processing of a large number of sheets, and capable of stably obtaining images recorded with desired color tone.
US08342674B2
An ink composition is provided that includes (A) a monofunctional monomer comprising an acrylate monomer represented by Formula (I) and (B) a photopolymerization initiator represented by Formula (II), the monofunctional monomer (A) having a content of 30 to 90 wt %. There is also provided an inkjet recording method that includes (a1) a step of discharging onto a recording medium the ink composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 11; and (b1) a step of curing the ink composition by irradiating the discharged ink composition with actinic radiation.
US08342669B2
An ink set including at least two inks. A first ink includes an optional colorant, a first multi-functional monomer, a second multi-functional monomer that is different from the first multi-functional monomer, and a peroxide initiator comprising a thermal free radical initiator. A second ink includes an optional colorant, a first multi-functional monomer, a second multi-functional monomer that is different from the first multi-functional monomer, and an amine activator having a catalyst which catalyzes the homolytic cleavage of the thermal free-radical initiator at low temperatures into radicals. The first ink is free of the amine activator and the second ink is free of the peroxide initiator. The first multi-functional monomer and the second multi-functional monomer accelerate reaction kinetics through a Trommsdorff effect. The components are each present in an amount relative to the other that provides a) early onset of gelation that accelerates polymerization, and b) an ink viscosity that is suitable for jetting from an ink jet printer.
US08342668B2
A liquid application apparatus has: an application member that has an application surface applying a liquid onto a medium; a holding member that abuts against the application surface of the application member so as to form a liquid holding space in which the liquid is held; a liquid application device that rotates the application surface of the application member in such a manner that the liquid supplied from the holding member to the application surface is applied onto the medium; a storage device that stores the liquid; a first flow channel and a second flow channel that connect the storage device to the holding member; a liquid movement device that causes oscillation of the liquid in the first flow channel, the second flow channel and a flow channel including the liquid holding space to generate a flow of the liquid; and a controller that controls the liquid movement device to generate the flow of the liquid caused by the oscillation in such a manner that a product which is generated from the liquid, has a higher viscosity than the liquid and adheres to interior walls of the first flow channel and the second flow channel, is solved in the liquid or collected in the liquid.
US08342666B2
An ink-jet image forming apparatus. The ink-jet image forming apparatus includes a print head having a plurality of nozzles to eject ink, an ink tank to store the ink, an ink supply passage to supply the ink in the ink tank to the print head, an ink return passage to return the ink in the print head to the ink tank, a regulator mounted in the ink supply passage to regulate ink flow supplied to the print head, a shut-off valve mounted in the ink supply passage, between the ink tank and the regulator, to intercept ink flow supplied to the regulator, and an ink pump mounted in the ink return passage to forcedly flow the ink in the ink return passage. The ink pump is configured to be driven in forward and reverse directions so as to change an ink flow direction. Since the shut-off valve intercepts forcedly the ink flow in the ink supply passage, the ink in the ink tank is prevented from flowing abnormally to the print head and leaking from the print head.
US08342651B2
A liquid jet recording head includes a substrate including a plurality of discharge energy generating elements, and a plurality of ink supply ports positioned along an array direction of the plurality of discharge energy generating elements and separated from each other by beams, a plurality of ribs supported by the beams, and an orifice plate supported by the plurality of ribs, wherein the orifice plate includes discharge ports for discharging liquid droplets which enter from the plurality of ink supply ports and is provided with discharge energy by the plurality of discharge energy generating elements.
US08342648B2
To provide an inkjet head which includes high-density nozzle rows and which does not easily cause an ejection failure due to adhesion of ink mist around ejection orifices when a high-density image of a secondary color is printed with a small number of paths. An inkjet head includes at least two or more types of nozzle rows that eject different amounts of ink. When A is the cross section, with respect to an ink supplying direction, of an ink supply path from each ejection orifice to a supply port and L is the length of the ink supply path, the value of A/L differs between the two or more types of nozzle rows. The nozzle row of which the value of A/L is small is disposed outside an area between the nozzle rows that eject a largest amount of ink and that are arranged next to each other.
US08342644B2
An inkjet printhead includes multiple head modules and a mount base. The multiple head modules each includes a laminate unit containing a nozzle to eject ink in droplets and an ink chamber in fluid communication with the nozzle. The multiple head modules are mounted on the mount base. The mount base defines a first contact surface facing a first direction in which the ink is ejected. Each laminate unit defines a second contact surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction. The first and second contact surfaces are held in contact with each other to position each head module in the mount base.
US08342640B2
The present invention provides an image forming method including jetting an ink composition containing a pigment, a volatile water-soluble organic solvent, polymer particles and water, from a heated nozzle plate of an inkjet head onto a recording medium; and applying a maintenance liquid on a nozzle surface of the nozzle plate after jetting.
US08342637B2
A suction cap device includes a cap member which is formed of an elastic member, which is formed to have a recessed portion, and which has a suction port formed in a bottom surface of the cap member to be located inside of the recessed portion; a suction mechanism which communicates with the suction port; and a cap protector which is accommodated in the recessed portion of the cap member, and which prevents the cap member from being deformed when a pressure inside the recessed portion is decreased. In a liquid flow passage formed in the cap protector, a lead-in port formed in the cap protector has a diameter which is greater than a diameter of a lead-out port formed in the cap protector. With this, it is possible to quickly discharge a liquid received in the cap member.
US08342636B2
A discharge rate control method for an ink-jet printer (1) includes forming a film (B) on a coating article (2) having a non ink-absorbent characteristic. Ink is discharged on coating article (2) from a plurality of nozzles (4) of a print head (3). The film thickness of film (B) is measured, corresponding to ink discharge positions of each nozzle (4). The discharge rate of ink is corrected for each nozzle (4) by increasing or decreasing the discharge rate based on differences between a target film thickness (Ba) and a film thickness at an ink discharge position of each nozzle (4).
US08342632B2
A printer includes a print head in which nozzles that form an image by discharging ink are arranged in a plurality of lines. The printer prints out an image on the basis of print form data in which information of layout contents of printing elements that form the content of print is set according to the attribute of each printing element. The printer includes a print form data storage unit, a printing element data storage unit, a print form data selection unit, a printing element data selection unit, and a printing element data insertion unit.
US08342631B2
An objective is to provide an inkjet print apparatus and an inkjet print method capable of a print without concentration unevenness. To achieve the objective, in a multiple-pass print using mask patterns each having low-print-percentage areas and high-print-percentage areas, the print-percentage difference between high-print-percentage areas and low-print-percentage areas is cancelled out in left-edge and right-edge parts of an image to be printed.
US08342627B1
Systems, apparatuses, and methods for an adaptive filter scheme in handheld positioning device are described herein. The adaptive filter scheme may determine a direction that the positioning device is traveling and adjust one or more parameters of the filter scheme based at least in part on the determined direction. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
US08342626B2
An ink jet recording apparatus determines the timing of executing discharge recovery processing based on the discharge amount of ink for each predetermined region discharged from a recording head, and controls the discharge recovery processing to be executed at the determined timing. Thereby, the discharge performance of the ink can be kept to be good, and the discharge recovery processing can be executed at the suitable timing without producing any deterioration of the image quality of a recorded image, and with the deterioration of throughput reduced.
US08342624B2
A recording apparatus includes a recording head having: a discharge port; an actuator; and a driving circuit that selectively supplies to the actuator a discharge driving signal which includes at least one of discharge pulse signals, and a non-discharge driving signal which includes at least one of non-discharge pulse signals. The recording apparatus further includes: a transport unit; an image recording control unit; a signal number calculating unit that calculates the number of non-discharge driving signals; and a non-discharge driving control unit that controls the driving circuit to supply the number of non-discharge driving signals calculated by the signal number calculating unit, wherein the signal number calculating unit calculates the number of non-discharge driving signals such that the sum of the number of correction pulses and the total number of non-discharge pulse signals supplied to the actuator within the predetermined period is equal to a predetermined value.
US08342609B2
An open cast mining method includes sinking a blasting borehole (14) for receiving an explosive charge into a ground body (12) which is to be mined, taking an initial measurement of one or more borehole conditions, including at least a temperature inside a bottom half (14.1) of the borehole (14), and loading the borehole (14) with a base explosive charge (28) only if the initial measurement of all of the one or more measured borehole conditions are within predefined limits indicating that the borehole (14) will not be subject to uncontrolled detonation of the base explosive charge (28). The one or more borehole conditions, including at least said temperature, are further measured and monitored after the base explosive charge (28) has been loaded. An alarm signal external of the borehole (14) is provided if any of the one or more measured borehole conditions are not within predefined limits so that there is a risk of uncontrolled detonation of the explosive charge (28).
US08342600B2
A central floor part of a floor assembly of a vehicle body is formed as a unipartite cast part which is delimited at the outer side of the body by in each case one sill profile. Alternatively the unipartite cast part can be two cast parts connected to each other by a vehicle tunnel disposed between the inner sides of the two cast parts.
US08342599B2
A steering support member has a steering support member 1 configured by two support members arranged in parallel; a first support member 9 arranged throughout the entire vehicle width, and a second support member 10 arranged in a zone corresponding to the front position on the driver's seat side; the first and second support members 9 and 10 are connected with a steering bracket 11; the vehicle body side end portion of the second support member 10 attached to the vehicle body via an end connecting bracket 8 together with the first support member 9, and the vehicle body opposite side end portion of the second support member 10 attached to the first support member 9 via an intermediate connecting bracket 12; and the intermediate connecting bracket 12 connected to a floor panel 5 via a first brace 13 and connected to a cowl panel 2 via a second brace 14.
US08342594B2
An apparatus for reducing atmospheric drag on a vehicle. The apparatus includes an airfoil having a receiving feature, wherein the airfoil is attachable with a back portion of the vehicle. The apparatus includes at least one extender attachable with the back portion of the vehicle, and a slide arm attached to the at least one extender and mateable with the recess portion of the airfoil. The apparatus is configured such that when the slide arm is disposed in the receiving portion of the airfoil, the airfoil is in an extended position relative to the back of the vehicle. The apparatus is further configured such that applying a force on the airfoil in a direction substantially perpendicular to the back portion of the vehicle buckles the airfoil, thereby lifting the slide arm from the recess and moving the airfoil to a retracted position.
US08342591B2
A stroller covering including a removable cover shade is provided. Embodiments of this invention are directed to a removable shade for a stroller hood or bassinet hood to shield a stroller occupant (i.e., an infant or child) from rain, snow, sunlight, noise, etc., while allowing his/her caregiver quick and easy access to the child. In these embodiments, the removable shade comprises a curtain configured to cover an opening formed by the stroller hood, and a flange extending from the curtain for engaging a surface of the stroller hood.
US08342586B2
A robot hand, which minimizes the number of actuators and adjusts the bending angles of joints through torque limiters to flexibly and finely control finger units, and a humanoid robot having the robot hand. The robot hand includes a torque limiter disposed on at least any one joint of a plurality of joints to link another joint of the plurality of joints with the any one joint through a power transmission member.
US08342581B2
A vehicle door latch assembly is provided, the vehicle door latch assembly having: a release lever pivotally secured to the latch assembly for movement between a locked position and an unlatched position; a pendulum stop pivotally secured to the release lever for movement between a blocking position and an unblocking position, wherein the release lever is prevented from moving to the locked position when the pendulum stop is in the blocking position; and a spring for biasing the pendulum stop into the unblocking position wherein the pendulum stop is configured such that movement of the release lever from the unlatched position towards the locked position will cause the pendulum stop to move from the unblocking position to the blocking position such that movement of the release lever from the unlatched position towards the locked position is limited to a predetermined position between the locked position and the unlatched position.
US08342577B2
A fitting for releasably coupling two structures and for maintaining fluid communication between the two structures has a first and second fitting member. The first fitting member includes a first ferromagnetic coupling element, and the second fitting member includes a second ferromagnetic coupling element. The first and second fitting members are constructed and arranged so as to be moved into engaged relation with one another and to be moved apart from on another so as to be separate from one another. Magnetic attraction between the first and second fitting members maintains the fitting members in engagement, and the fitting members are decoupled by applying force sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction.
US08342571B2
The invention relates to an airbag, the airbag comprising a tubular area and a filling piece for filling the airbag with gas of a gas generator, wherein the filling piece is formed by putting-over the tubular area of the airbag. In one embodiment, the filling piece is formed by putting-over the tubular area of the airbag in the longitudinal direction, wherein an end of the put-over tubular area faces the airbag interior and said end of the put-over tubular area comprises one or several openings which are arranged to distribute gas inflowing from a gas generator in a targeted manner into the airbag.
US08342570B2
An air bag system for a vehicle includes an air bag body formed by stitching base fabric material, an inflator that charges the air bag body with gas, and a vent hole that is a through hole provided in the air bag body so as to communicate the inside with the outside of the air bag body. The vent hole of the air bag body is formed to be slit-like and longer in a longitudinal direction thereof. The air bag body includes two base fabric pieces having overlapping side ends that are joined together, a tensile-force applying mechanism that applies tensile-force in the longitudinal direction of the vent hole, including a pair of V-shaped stitched lines bent in a sharply angled V-shape and formed on the side ends of the two base fabric pieces with a predetermined distance therebetween that defines the slit-like vent hole, and portions of the side ends aligned with vent hole along the gas discharge direction form a flow-passage restriction membrane.
US08342563B2
A joint protecting device for a baby stroller, the baby stroller has a pair of guarding housings on the outer surface of two joints on the two lateral sides of the baby stroller. When the baby stroller is collapsed or stretched, each of two upper struts is rotated relatively to a corresponding lower strut on each of the joints and makes one of the two guarding housings rotate about an axle of the joint, thereby the guarding housing obstructs a gap with an angle formed between the joint and the upper strut, and harming by clamping to the baby's fingers can be prevented.
US08342555B2
One embodiment of a tricycle (20) having a spine frame (22), supported by a rear wheel (34) and a pair of steerable front wheels (36), and supporting a recumbent seat (42) pivotably attached at its rear. A pedal boom (44) extends forwardly of the spine (26) and supports a pedal crank assembly (46). The front wheels each support a lateral arm (28) with the front wheel pivotably attached at the distal end and an angular projection (80) attached at the proximal end. A pivot (78) connects each angular projection to the spine, allowing the lateral arms and attached front wheels to fold to a stowed position alongside the spine. Another pivot (84) connects the boom to the spine, allowing the boom fold back to a stowed position against the spine. In the travel position, a clamp arrests the angular projections, and can arrest the boom and seat. The tricycle is collapsible to several levels of compactness. Other embodiments are described and shown.
US08342551B2
A running board assembly is provided for a motor vehicle having a passenger cab and a box. The running board assembly includes a housing assembly, a gear assembly disposed within the housing assembly, a running board operably coupled to the gear assembly and movable relative to the housing assembly between a stowed position tucked underneath the motor vehicle, a cab entry position generally outwardly from the motor vehicle to support a user entering or exiting the passenger cab, and a box side step disposed generally outwardly from the motor vehicle and rearward of the cab entry position to provide a user with side access to the box, and a motor operably coupled to the gear assembly for driving the gear assembly in opposing first and second directions to move the running board between the stowed position, the cab entry position, and the box side step position.
US08342549B1
A running board assembly for a three wheel motorcycle including independent first and second support frame members. Each of the support frame members further includes: i) a substantially U-shaped configuration having a rear lateral section, a longitudinal section, and a front lateral section; ii) a connector on the rear lateral section adapted for connection to a motorcycle frame; and iii) a connector on the front lateral section adapted for connection to a motorcycle engine block. A running board member is connected to each of the support frame members.
US08342548B1
A suspension system for a motor vehicle including a frame assembly; a differential supported on the frame assembly; two half shaft assemblies engaging the differential and being pivotally connected to the frame assembly; and at least one air spring operatively positioned between the frame assembly and each of the half shaft assemblies. The air springs are connected to a rotating linkage which maintains a substantially linear axis of compression for the air springs.
US08342545B2
A forward moving powered cart configured to receive a bundle of roof decking sheets, and which cart rides on the each of three spaced adjacent trusses after being crane lifted onto the said roof trusses. The cart has two sets of spaced casters that ride on the 1st and 3rd truss, while a safety truck on the cart designed to prevent slippage from the two trusses upon which its two sets of casters ride, engages the middle truss of the three. Sheets are removed from the rear for placement and post installation, the cart is moved forwardly an incremental amount.
US08342539B2
A clamping tool includes a holder, a connector and a tool. The holder has a rearwardly tapering bore and a holder thread having a first pitch. The connector has a cylindrical shape and a connector through bore. The connector further has a first connector thread having a pitch similar to the first pitch, and a second connector thread having a second pitch that is different from the first pitch. The tool has a rearwardly tapering rear portion and a tool thread having a pitch similar to the second pitch. In an assembled position, the rearwardly tapering rear portion of the tool abuts the rearwardly tapering bore of the holder, the holder thread is threadingly engaged with the first connector thread, and the tool thread is threadingly engaged with the second connector thread.
US08342537B2
A metal laminate gasket includes a plurality of metal plates including a first metal plate having a first hole to be sealed and a bead around the first hole, and a second metal plate laminated under the first metal plate and having a second hole corresponding to the first hole. Concavities and convexities are formed at the second metal plate concentrically around the second hole for increasing an apparent plate thickness of the second metal plate. The concavities and convexities are provided continuously at a position corresponding to the foot portion or the top portion of the bead of the first metal plate. The concavities and convexities have a height and width smaller than those of the bead, and have a deformation characteristic due to a surface pressure when compressed, smaller than that of the bead.
US08342528B2
A new card game and method of play is provided. The card game includes a means for making at least one proposition related to the value of a single card to be revealed from a 36-card deck of cards and a means for representing the deck of thirty-six cards. The deck of thirty-six cards includes (a) one card of a first value, (b) two cards of a second value, (c) three cards of a third value, (d) four cards of a fourth value, (e) five cards of a fifth value, (f) six cards of a sixth value, (g) five cards of a seventh value, (h) four cards of an eighth value, (i) three cards of a ninth value, (j) two cards of a tenth value, and (k) one card of an eleventh value.
US08342525B2
A playing card handling device is disclosed. The device includes a first side and a second opposite side. Components of the device include a card infeed tray, a card output tray and a card handling zone. The card infeed tray and card output tray are on the same first side of the device and an upper surface of the card infeed tray and an upper surface of the card output tray are in the same plane. Card handling devices of the present invention also include a touch screen display, as well as a movable card gate.
US08342522B2
A sheet conveyance apparatus includes a conveyance unit configured to convey a sheet and a pair of roller units, provided on a downstream of the conveyance unit in the conveyance direction, wherein the pair of roller units forms a plurality of nipping portions, arranged along a width direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction, a downstream end of the sheet to be conveyed is caused to abut against abutting positions of the plurality of nipping portion, and wherein the abutting position of the nipping portion nearer to a center in the width direction is positioned on a more downstream in the conveyance direction than the abutting position of the nipping portion at end side in the width direction.
US08342504B2
An image forming apparatus (100) is equipped with a left-side cover (2), manual supply tray (10b), a carry guide (31) and a lift plate (33), and these are rotatably supported by a third shaft (35). The apparatus is reduced in size and a protrusion length L of the lift plate (33) is enlarged. The change in inclination angle of the lift plate (33) is reduced and a paper-sheet supply characteristic, even when the amount of paper sheets placed on the manual supply tray (10b) changes, is stabilized.
US08342499B2
A sheet processing apparatus includes a support unit on which sheets, which each include first and second edge portions that differ from each other, are stacked together such that the first and second edge portions are aligned; a counter member disposed so as to face the first edge portions; a pressing member that presses the first edge portions against the counter member; a first binding unit that binds together the first edge portions by a first binding process, the first edge portion of each sheet being pressed against the counter member by the pressing member; and a second binding unit that binds together the second edge portions by a second binding process, the first edge portion of each sheet being pressed against the counter member by the pressing member, a bond formed by the second binding unit being more easily breakable than a bond formed by the first binding unit.
US08342496B2
A printing system which is capable of performing square back processing and has a mechanism that makes it possible to prevent occurrence of a new trouble of inadvertently creating a saddle-stitched brochure defective in appearance and/or stackability, which is unexpected by an operator. A printing apparatus receives plural jobs including a saddle-stitch job for creating a saddle-stitched brochure of a predetermined kind. In the saddle-stitch job, saddle-stitch processing and square back processing are carried out. The square back processing is performed by a saddle-stitching machine. The saddle-stitching machine forms a flat surface on the back of a saddle-stitched brochure. A controller permits or inhibits creating the saddle-stitched brochure of the predetermined kind for a job based on whether the job meets a predetermined condition.
US08342491B2
A transport system for transporting at least one blade or spar for a wind turbine. The blade or spar has a root end and a tip end. The transport system comprises a root frame structure for holding the root end and a fixation device adapted to fixate and support the blade or spar between the root end and tip end.
US08342483B1
A wiring tool and method are provided for protecting a length of wiring being pulled along a wiring path through a connection box, through use of an attachment plate arrangement of the wiring tool having first and second plate elements cooperatively configured for movement from first to second relationships with respect to one another such that the wiring tool can be removed from or placed about the length of wiring without having to feed the entire length of wiring through a closed periphery of an aperture in the attachment plate. One or more rollers mounted to the attachment plate along the aperture preclude the wiring from contacting edges of the aperture while being pulled through the wiring tool.
US08342480B2
A substance communicating device for use in conjunction with an appliance or a system including an appliance and a consumable holder. The appliance has a first substance service connector component and a first service switch component. The substance communicating device has a second substance service connector component operably engageable with the first substance connector component to permit the communication of a substance between the first and second substance service connector components. The substance communicating device further has a second service switch component operably associated with the second substance service connector component, the second service switch component being configured to engage the first service switch component when the first and second substance service connector components are engaged to selectively permit the communication of the substance between the substance communicating device and the appliance.
US08342477B2
A clam-shell bracket for defining a mounting flange on a structural member, such as a hydroformed vehicle cross-member or frame rail, includes a lower body featuring an integrated locating feature with which to preposition the bracket on the structural member, and permanently-attached male threaded fasteners with which to thereafter secure the bracket to the structural member. The bracket further includes a hinged upper body having slotted bolt holes through which the lower body's fasteners may freely pass as the upper body is pivoted into the assembled position, thereby reducing the time required for bracket installation. The use of fasteners on the both the hinged end and opposite end of the lower clamp body provides an improved clamping force about the structural member, while the improved clamping force cooperates with the mating locating features of the bracket and the structural member to improve the lateral applied load transfer therebetween.
US08342468B1
A drink container holding device for permitting articles and a beverage to be stored on a music stand includes a frame. At least one mounting assembly is coupled to the frame. The mounting assembly engages the stand to mount the frame to a stand. A sleeve is coupled to the frame. The sleeve has a beverage aperture extending therein through an upper end of the sleeve. The beverage aperture receives a drink container to allow the sleeve to support the drink container adjacent to the stand when the frame is mounted on the stand.
US08342467B2
An equipoising arm structure that can selectively exert force in any direction—lifting, pressing down, or applying lateral bias—with consistent force throughout its range of articulation, comprises a force exerting device having a force exerting structure including a load arm as a first side pivotable about a load pivot, a resilient member attached to the load arm and to a termination point and forming a second side of the force exerting structure. The third side of the structure is formed by a line from the termination point to the load pivot. A first adjustment mechanism moves the termination point to change the length and disposition of the third side of the structure to positions above or below the load pivot. Additional adjustment mechanisms may alter the mounting angle of the entire force exerting structure, and/or the angular relationship between a plurality its force-exerting component devices.
US08342460B2
A bracket part and a securing part are provided to connect an add-on part to a carrier part. The securing part is displaceable relative to the bracket part. The bracket part includes a carrier part receptacle that receives an edge region of the carrier part that is adjacent a carrier-part opening. In a final mounting arrangement, the securing part secures the bracket part via a mounting operation that can be performed by displacing the bracket part and the securing part. The final mounting arrangement can be easily checked for proper execution.
US08342458B2
The present invention relates to corded electric devices and more particularly to corded electric devices that move their location such as an electric lawn mower. The present invention is a device for handling the electric cord of a device such as an electric lawn mower or some other movable platform to which electric power is provided (a lawn mower is a movable platform having a device for cutting grass such as spinning blades). The present invention manages the position of a cord as the platform on which it is mounted is moved.
US08342457B2
A shape-changing structural member has a shape-changing material, such as a suitable foam material, for example a polymer foam capable of withstanding at least 300% strain or a metal alloy foam capable of withstanding at least 5% strain. Springs, such as one or more coil springs, provide structural support for the shape-changing material. The springs may also be used to provide forces to expand and contract the shape change material. The springs may include pairs of concentric springs, one inside of another. The concentric springs may surround an underlying skeleton structure that supports the shape-changing material and/or aids in changing the shape of the material. The concentric springs may or may not be wrapped around the underlying skeleton structure. Multiple springs or pairs of springs may be coupled together using a sheet metal connector.
US08342455B2
The present invention relates to a device and method of assisting the piloting of a rotorcraft, the rotorcraft having a flight control (10) for controlling a rotor (20, 21) via at least one linkage (35), during which method an additional force is generated by at least one piloting assistance means (100) mechanically linked to the linkage (35), the additional force being a function of the position of the flight control (10) and of an instantaneous force as measured on the linkage (35).
US08342445B2
A method for controlling control surfaces. A position limit is identified for movement of a control surface based on a load limit set for the control surface and a number of vehicle current operation parameters to form an identified position limit. Responsive to receiving a command to move the control surface on a vehicle to a new position, the control surface is commanded to move to a position within the identified position limit.
US08342441B2
A VTOL vehicle includes a forward rotor, an aft rotor and a fuselage, the forward and aft rotor lying in a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, with the fuselage located axially between the forward and aft rotors. The vehicle has an in-flight configuration wherein the forward rotor is tilted downwardly at a negative tilt angle relative to the fuselage and the aft rotor is tilted upwardly at a positive tilt angle relative to the fuselage.
US08342440B2
Miniature robotic vehicles suitable for a variety of tasks including covert surveillance, reconnaissance, and recreation are provided. Embodiments of the invention may include vehicles having a hybrid transportation system that incorporates a rotary-wing flight mode in conjunction with a wheeled ground transport mode. As a result, exemplary vehicles provide efficient ground-mode travel, with the added ability to fly over large obstacles and rough terrain.
US08342431B2
A sanitary outlet fitting including a water outlet (2) and a jet regulator (1) which is associated with the water outlet and includes a jet regulator housing (3) with integrated components. The jet regulator housing can be inserted into the water outlet by an axial insertion movement and includes a holding element (6) provided with at least one radially mobile projection (10) for connecting to the water outlet. The outlet fitting includes either a locking element (8) that can be actuated from the outside without using a tool for selectively blocking and releasing the holding element, or an unlocking tool (65) can be inserted into the annular space (68) between the inner peripheral edge of the water outlet and the outer peripheral edge of the housing by an axial insertion movement. The insertion movement of the unlocking tool can be converted into a radial movement of the at least one projection of the holding element from a functional position into an unlocking position.
US08342420B2
The plastic structural article includes an elongated tubular shell having opposed end sections, a middle section therebetween and an interior cavity. The interior cavity has a foam core situated therein. The foam core comprises steam expandable polymer beads which when expanded substantially fill the interior cavity.
US08342415B2
The invention relates to a method of conducting a transaction between an NFC device and a contactless integrated circuit of the passive reader type. The method includes providing, in the contactless integrated circuit, at least one reader application emulation program and, by an intermediary unit of the NFC device, establishing a communication with the contactless integrated circuit, receiving from the contactless integrated circuit reader application commands and transferring the commands to the first host processor, and receiving card application responses supplied by the first host processor and transferring the responses to the contactless integrated circuit.
US08342414B2
A multisided card having at least two obverse faces and two reverse faces that are adjacent one another, can be used to print and store relatively insecure information of the obverse faces and to have more sensitive information stored and printed on the adjacent reverse faces. To protect privacy, a caricature or cartoon of an individual can be placed on an obverse face, which image cannot be read by facial recognition techniques but could be recognized by human observers. Many of the features of the card can be utilized in a virtual card that exists in machine memory or cyberspace. A virtual purse or wallet can be created in which to store such virtual cards.
US08342412B2
A transaction product includes an enclosure, an account identifier and an electrical circuit. The enclosure defines an aperture. The account identifier is at least one of connected to or enclosed within the enclosure and links the transaction product to an account or record. The account identifier is machine readable. The electrical circuit includes a flexible circuit member, wherein the flexible circuit member extends through the aperture defined by the enclosure such that a first portion of the flexible circuit member is coupled to an outside surface of the enclosure and a second portion of the flexible circuit member is positioned inside the enclosure. Other cards, products, assemblies and methods of using such cards, products and assemblies are also disclosed.
US08342411B2
The present invention relates to a bar code reading device for reading 1D or 2D bar code symbols. The bar code reading device, in one embodiment, can receive a command to disable symbology reading. In another embodiment, a bar code reading device can have a timercount and an image memory. In one embodiment, a bar code reading device can be configured to read bar code symbols of more than one bar code symbology.
US08342407B2
A method of completing a transaction at a point-of-sale terminal using payment information contained on a wireless unit of a customer. The method comprises providing a point-of-sale terminal capable of wirelessly connecting with a wireless unit of a customer desiring to complete a transaction. The point-of-sale terminal is used to perform at least one of reading a barcode displayed on the wireless unit containing short range network pairing information, or displaying a barcode containing short range network pairing information for reading by the wireless unit, to thereby establish a short range wireless network between the point-of-sale terminal and the wireless unit of the customer. Via the short range wireless network, transaction data is received from the wireless unit of the customer containing payment information. The transaction data is then used to effect payment for the transaction and thereby complete the transaction.
US08342406B2
A system and method are provided for transferring data to a mobile device through animated barcodes. The mobile device scans, with a barcode reader, at least a first barcode and then scans at least a second barcode, whereby the barcodes are shown on a display. The display is in an open-loop relationship with the mobile device. The mobile device decodes the at least first and second barcodes to extract a first data portion and an associated first sequence identification, and a second data portion and an associated second sequence identification. The mobile device combines the first and second data portions according to the associated sequence identifications.
US08342405B2
Systems and methods provide for illuminating a subject using a light pipe that transmits light from a source. A method includes providing a light pipe, the light pipe defining an inner lumen through which the image sensor views the subject; providing a light source in alignment with a proximal portion of the light pipe; and using the light source, projecting a light into the light pipe and through the light pipe, the light pipe including a distal portion for providing a high-angle bright field illumination pattern on the subject with a first portion of the light and for reflecting a second portion of the light for providing a low-angle dark field illumination pattern on the subject.
US08342400B1
A registering and counting system operated in response to information included on data bearing records is used for maintaining inventory records related to narcotics items. Data corresponding to users is read through record reading devices (448, 452). Authorized users are allowed access to a narcotics vault (402). Narcotics holding containers (422) are removable from storage locations in drawers (416). Wireless transmitters on the containers operate in conjunction with wireless readers in the storage locations to enable a computer (458) to track the use of the narcotics items and operating parameters of the system.
US08342398B2
An automated banking machine operates using data read from user cards. The machine is operative to transfer funds in accounts. The machine includes a user fascia adapted to be held by a lock adjacent an opening of a housing supported atop a chest. The fascia is supported by the housing through two horizontally-disposed members. The fascia is movable away from the housing. The machine includes serviceable components supported within the housing or by the fascia. A machine servicer may stand between the two horizontally-disposed members while servicing the machine. The housing additionally includes a rear panel similarly movably mounted with two other horizontally-disposed members for use in servicing rear components.
US08342393B2
Systems and methods allow units of produce to be traced back to the fields in which the produce was grown. In the field, a harvest form is completed with harvest information at the time of the harvest. In some instances, labels having unique codes are used to label the produce in the field, and two additional labels are placed on the harvest form to associate a range of unique codes with the harvest information on the form. The labels used to label the produce can also be marked with a lot code and date at the time of harvest. In other instances, empty packages arrive at the field already marked with a range of associated unique codes. In the field, harvest information is recorded and associated with the range of unique codes by scanning one or more of the packages.
US08342391B2
A travel kiosk with improved document delivery. The travel kiosk includes a first section containing a touch screen, and a second section adjacent the first section including an aperture and a document delivery tray within the aperture. The document delivery tray includes a first portion including a document slope for receiving a document at an upper end from a printer, the document falling to a lower end of the document slope, the document slope including ribs oriented generally downwardly to minimize friction between the document and the document slope. A second portion coupled to the first portion at the lower end includes first and second tabs which form a landing zone for the document after it has fallen from the document slope.
US08342389B2
The invention relates to a flexible polymeric film for enveloping a container comprising: a tear path; and a tear tab extending from the outer surface of the film; wherein the tear path comprises at least one fault line arranged to facilitate tearing of the film in one direction when the tear tab is pulled in a direction generally perpendicular to the container; wherein the at least one fault line comprises an embossed pattern being positioned to enhance the sound generated by the tearing of the at least one fault line.
US08342385B2
A transfer process for bonding a solderable device to a solderable firsl substrate having a first oxidized surface comprises placing the solderable device proximate to the first substrate in a reducing chamber, where the first surface cannot be visually observed. We place a second substrate having a second oxidized surface in the chamber in a way to visually observe the second surface. Selecting the first substrate and the second substrate so that the reduction of the second surface correlates with the reduction of the first surface provides an indication of the degree of reduction of the first surface. Introducing a reducing agent into the chamber under reducing conditions reduces the surfaces which we track by irradiating and observing the second surface; evaluate any change in the second surface during irradiation and correlate the change with first surface reduction. When sufficiently reduced, we solder the first substrate to the device.
US08342381B2
Disclosed is a print technology in which a solder pool staying on the surface of a mask is driven by means of a squeegee, and solder is applied onto a substrate onto which the lower surface of a mask is placed. A forward print process where solder is applied by driving a squeegee in a predetermined forward direction relative to a mask, and a backward print process where the solder is applied by driving the squeegee in a returning direction opposite to the forward direction are switched alternately. When the squeegee passes through the solder pool on the downstream side in a moving direction before switching in the course of switching from any one of the forward and backward print processes to the other one of these processes, the amount of solder in the solder pool is measured. Based on the amount of solder thus measured, the necessity of replenishing solder is determined. The solder pool is supplemented with solder, based on the result of the decision on whether solder replenishment is required.
US08342371B2
The caulking gun comprises a cartridge holder (12) for accommodating a cartridge (25). For pressing out the substance contained in the cartridge (25), use is made of a piston (30) which is advanced by a pressure disk (16). The pressure disk (16) can be radially expanded under the influence of the advancement force and thus will press by a spreading edge (49) against the side wall (31) of the piston (30). In this manner, the piston in the region of its side wall (31) is tightly pressed against the cartridge wall. Leakage of substance past the piston (30) is prevented.
US08342368B2
A dispenser for flowable material adapted for engagement and for dispensing fluid from either a replaceable piston pump reservoir unit comprising a reservoir bottle and a piston pump or a replaceable peristaltic pump reservoir unit comprising a reservoir bottle and a deformable tube member.
US08342348B2
A storage box includes a support assembly having a plurality of supports, connectors, and lower posts. The support assembly is placed to support an outer part member, and the outer part member includes outer and inner sheets covering a bottom end thereof to wrap the bottom supports of the support assembly and casing a flat body. The inner sheet includes a jointing medium defined thereon. The outer part member further includes a covering section extending from the upper end thereof to cover an opening of the body. A plurality of sub supports are used to expand the covering section flatly so that the covering section covers the opening of the body completely.
US08342347B2
A collapsible, portable container having a roof, a base, two foldable end walls and two removable side walls. The container is collapsed by removing the side walls and inwardly folding the end walls to draw the roof closer to the base. A slide lock feature is present which alternatively allows or prevents the inward folding of the container end walls.
US08342342B1
The adjustable, collapsible clothes rack is easily portable due to the telescopic fit of the leg inserts within the legs and the slideable cross bar insert within the cross bar. Additionally, the pivoted fastening of the legs to the cross bar assembly provides for a further compact state. The expandable and retractable features of the apparatus provide for fit to a variety of surfaces. The rubberized leg insert stoppers and the suction cups provide for apparatus position retention on a given surface. Further, the suction cups are pivoted and thereby even allow for the cups to be removably attached to a wall or other surface at and angle to the positioning of the leg inserts.
US08342332B2
A portable laboratory for an intermediate or secondary biology course and experiments relating to the course includes a carrying case of the type having an impervious sturdy cover and a closeable interior containing a first and second inner panel. The laboratory also includes a relatively small portable microscope having a zoom optical system, a dissecting box and tray, a spirit lamp, a digital camera and numerous items typically found in a secondary school laboratory all of which are releaseably fastened to one of the panels. The portable laboratory also includes test strips for testing glucose in urine as well as a number of microscope slides, many of which are prepared slides and other elements for conducting experiments for a course together with a laboratory manual and CD containing text material.
US08342330B2
A blister and package system made of a blister card and an outer package with unique interacting locking mechanisms. The blister card or strip is inserted into the outer package or sleeve and locks immediately without having to further process the outer package or the blister card or strip. The user is able to expose the blisters from the outer package by disengaging the lock. The blister card or strip includes a formable, pliable sheet material, into which one or more individual cavities or blisters are formed. The separated cavities are loaded with product and sealed with one or more layers of puncturable or tearable sheet material, such as aluminum foil. The blister card or strip contains a plastic rivet assembly that forms an interference mechanism. The rivet is trapped by an internally formed panel and stopped by a catch flap included in the outer package.
US08342319B2
An improved front-drive reciprocating slat conveyor has a plurality of sets of longitudinally extending slats spaced across the width of a receptacle floor. A cross beam is secured to each set of slats. The cross beams are secured to rod extensions that are connected to the piston rods of a hydraulic drive system by non-alignment critical connectors. The cross beams have connecting elements that engage receiving elements on the slats. The connecting elements and receiving elements are held together by pins or similar connectors. A frame extends across the width of the receptacle. Bearing guides guide and align the rod extensions when the cylinder rods are extended or retracted.
US08342317B2
A device and method for transport of flexible, two dimensional products and performance of associated production processing of those products, by which the flexible, two-dimensional products are serially conveyed to a workstation and are conveyed away from the workstation again by the same gripper transporter, which enables the workstation to be selectively removed from the production process being performed along the transport path of the printed products, and to be selectively re-introduced again the transport path, in a flexible manner.
US08342313B2
An accumulation-and-release conveyor using a roller belt with rollers arranged to rotate in the direction of belt travel. The rollers extend through the thickness of the belt. A movable stop is positioned along the carryway just downstream of a bearing surface that is movable into and out of contact with the rollers. When the bearing surface is out of contact with the rollers, they are freely rotatable; when the bearing surface contacts the rollers, they roll on the bearing surface to propel articles in the direction of belt travel. The stop is selectively moved between a blocking position preventing articles from passing and accumulating them with low back line pressure on the freely rotatable rollers and a release position allowing articles to pass to the accumulation zone where they are propelled forward and separated from each other by the rotation of the rollers rolling on the bearing surface.
US08342309B2
There is provided a blind operating device for transmitting a rotation in both directions from an operation portion to a driving axis of the blind capable of making a diameter of a clutch spring smaller, and then capable of reducing operation load without breaking the clutch spring. The blind operating device includes an input shaft into which a rotation from a pulley is inputted, and a rotation axis that is provided coaxially with the input axis and is capable of transmitting the rotation to the driving axis. A clutch spring is wound around a fixed spring winding axis of a case and a rotation spring winding axis of the rotation axis. Linking and de-linking of the rotation axis and the case is made possible utilizing tightening and loosening of the clutch spring and one end of the clutch spring is linked to the rotation axis. When the rotation in one direction is inputted to the input axis, a part of the clutch spring wound around the fixed spring winding axis loosens starting from a rotation spring winding axis side, whereby the rotation axis is allowed to rotate with the input axis.
US08342307B2
A synchronizing ring includes a conical ring body with an inner friction surface and an outer installation surface, which bound the ring body and extend conically. The ring body is bounded in the axial direction at a largest cone diameter by a gear wheel surface with a gear wheel extending substantially perpendicular to the synchronizing ring axis and is bounded at a smallest cone diameter by a surface. A recess is provided at the surface of the synchronizing ring for fixing the inner ring with a security against rotation of the inner ring. A raised or displaced portion is provided at the surface of the synchronizing ring and an undercut is provided at the inner ring, so that the displaced portion can engage in the undercut in such a way that an overall height of the synchronizing ring set is not enlarged by the displaced portion.
US08342304B2
The invention concerns a pneumatic retarding device with a cylinder dividing the cylinder into a displacement chamber and a compensation chamber and including a piston with a piston rod movably supported in the cylinder and having a piston seal element wherein, upon movement of the piston, a piston movement opposing force is generated while an air leakage flow is established past the piston for damping piston movement. The piston and the piston rod are formed integrally and the piston seal element has at least two deformation zones of which one responds faster to a pressure change in the displacement chamber then the other which is subjected to the pressure change via a restrictive passage. Also, a guide system is provided with such a retarding device.
US08342301B2
A shock absorber is attached coaxially with a reciprocating rod driven by a reciprocating unit to prevent a bending moment from being applied to the reciprocating rod in absorbing an impact force. The shock absorber has a hollow rod provided with a through hole and an outer cylindrical body mounted outside the hollow rod so as to be movable axially relatively and attached to the reciprocating unit. An accommodating space is formed between the hollow rod and the outer cylindrical body. A spring force in a direction of being relatively directed to one end portion side of the hollow rod is applied to the outer cylindrical body by a compression coil spring. An annular piston for partitioning an accommodating space into two liquid chambers is provided in the hollow rod. When the impact force is applied to the hollow rod so as to be slid to the hollow rod, the liquid flows from one liquid chamber to another liquid chamber through a gap, whereby a resistance force is applied to the annular piston.
US08342293B2
A guide apparatus includes a pair of guide rails, magnet units, pedestals, a sensor unit, a magnetic guide control apparatus as a control unit, and projected parts. The magnet unit includes electromagnets and permanent magnets and magnetic poles thereof are opposed to a blade of the guide rail from three directions with a gap. The projected parts are formed with side parts of a tip part of a central magnetic pole opposite to a tip surface of the blade of the guide rail among the magnetic poles of the magnet unit being brought closer to the guide rail than a center section thereof.
US08342288B2
Methods and systems are provided for induc ing seismic energy waves in a subterranean formation. More particularly, improved seismic transducers are provided that comprise enhanced baseplates. Baseplates are provided that comprise an intermediate plate and a plurality of contact plates secured to the underside of the intermediate plate. The contact plates provide a surface area for engagement with the ground surface that is more limited than the lower surface area of the intermediate plate. Advantages of such baseplate enhancements include, but are not limited to, a reduction of baseplate harmonics or ringing and enhanced baseplate strength so as to reduce baseplate fatigue or failure, a reduction of baseplate flexure. These advantages ultimately translate to improved seismic surveys, having higher resolution of the formations surveyed and resulting in surveys reaching greater depths.
US08342287B2
A vehicle steering apparatus (1) comprises: a control device (12) which controls an actuation of an electric motor (18); a control housing (H) which partitions an accommodation chamber (100) which accommodates the control device (12); an adjacent housing (27, 28; 280; 35A) which is adjacent to the control housing (H); and a heat-conducting member (96; 96A; 96B; 96C; 96D; 96E). The adjacent housing (27, 28; 280; 35A) is opposite to the electric motor (18) with the control housing (H) interposed therebetween. The heat-conducting element (96; 96A; 96B; 96C; 96D; 96E) comprises: an adjacent section (97) which is adjacent to a heat-generating element (83) of the control device (12) so that heat can be conducted; and a connected section (98; 98A; 98B; 98C; 98D; 98E) that is connected to the adjacent housing (27, 28; 280; 35A) so that heat can be conducted.
US08342284B2
In a work vehicle, a cutoff-pressure-setting part sets cutoff pressure at a predetermined first pressure value when vehicle speed is greater than a predetermined first speed threshold, and at a second pressure value greater than the first pressure value when vehicle speed is equal to or less than a second speed threshold less than the first speed threshold. When the vehicle is moving forward and the forward/backward switch lever is in forward motion position, or when the vehicle is moving backward and the forward/backward switch lever is in backward motion position, the second speed threshold is set to a predetermined first value. When the vehicle is moving forward and the forward/backward switch lever is in backward motion position or when the vehicle is moving backward and the forward/backward switch lever is in forward motion position, the second speed threshold is set to a second value lower than the first value.
US08342275B2
A fuel cell vehicle is provided that can suppress uneven torque. The fuel cell vehicle 1 includes a motor 4; a fuel cell 10; a battery 3; a battery drive unit 21 for driving the motor 4 using electricity from the battery 3 so as to serve as an battery drive mode, in which case the initialization of the fuel cell 10 to generate electricity is not complete; a fuel cell drive unit 22 for driving the motor 4 using electricity from the fuel cell 10 and battery 3 so as to serve as a fuel cell drive mode, in which case the initialization of the fuel cell 10 to generate electricity is complete; and a torque upper limit control unit 23 for controlling a torque upper limit value of the motor 4 under the battery drive mode and fuel cell drive mode.
US08342274B2
When an engine is driven on a different type of fuel (for example, ethanol-containing fuel) from a reference fuel (for example, gasoline) and the engine torque is thus greater than that produced when the engine is driven on the reference fuel, a differential state control device expands a non-differential range compared to that at the time when the reference fuel is used. Thus, in the case where a plurality of types of fuel including the reference fuel are supplied to the engine, the advantage of switching a power distribution mechanism between a differential enabled state and a non-differential state can be fully utilized in correspondence with engine torque characteristics which may vary in accordance with the type of fuel for the engine. As a result, the fuel consumption rate can be reduced in correspondence with the plurality of types of fuel supplied to the engine, for example.
US08342261B2
A method for small-charge blasting, and a rock drilling unit used therein. By means of a rock drilling machine of the rock drilling unit, a drill hole is first drilled into material to be excavated, after which one or more cartridges comprising a propellant charge are fed through a drilling tool onto the bottom of the drill hole. The drilling unit comprises a cartridge feed station, which is separate from the rock drilling machine and from which the cartridges may be fed into a longitudinal channel in the drilling tool.
US08342257B2
A vehicle wheel assembly is provided which includes a vehicle frame having a first axle, a wheel assembly having a housing with an aperture engaging the first axle and enabling the wheel assembly to pivot in a first plane about a first axis formed by the first axle. A cylindrical member is carried by the housing of the wheel assembly, the cylindrical member and housing are arranged perpendicular to the first axle. A first wheel is pivotably connected to a first portion of the cylindrical member and a second wheel is pivotably connected to a second portion of the cylindrical member. The first wheel and second wheel independently pivot in a second plane about a second axis formed by the cylindrical member. The first axis is arranged perpendicular to the second axis and the first plane is arranged perpendicular to the second plane.
US08342254B2
In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.
US08342252B2
An automatic fire extinguisher includes a closed metal container with a top and upper portion in the shape of the frustum of a cone, a hemispherical shaped lower portion and a weighted bottom portion. The closed container includes a closeable opening for filling the container with the fire suppressant and a pressure valve for pressurizing the container after filling with suppressant. A quantity of fire suppressant is disposed in the container and dischargeable through a tubular member that extends through the top of the container and outwardly through a spray nozzle attached to the tubular member.
US08342249B2
According to one or more aspects of the invention, a method for drilling an offshore wellbore into a seabed from a platform positioned proximate to the water surface comprises making-up a first tubular string with a first conveyance assembly and running the first tubular string into the wellbore with the first conveyance assembly, wherein the first tubular string enters the wellbore from the water column at an entry position proximate to the seabed; performing a wellbore task with the first tubular string; while the wellbore task is being performed with the first tubular string, making-up a second tubular string in the water column from a second conveyance assembly; withdrawing the first tubular string from the wellbore with the first conveyance assembly once the wellbore task is completed; and running the second tubular string with the second conveyance assembly into the wellbore at the entry point from the water column.
US08342245B2
A completion tubular is placed in position adjacent the zone or zones to be fractured and produced. It features preferably sliding sleeve valves one series of which can be put in the wide open position after run in for gravel packing and fracturing zones one at a time or in any desired order. These valves are then closed and another series of valves can be opened wide but with a screen material juxtaposed in the flow passage to selectively produce from one or more fractured zones. An annular path behind the gravel is provided by an offset screen to promote flow to the screened production port. The path can be a closed annulus that comes short of the production port or goes over it. For short runs an exterior screen or shroud is eliminated for a sliding sleeve with multiple screened ports that can be opened in tandem.
US08342244B2
Methods and apparatuses for releasing a chemical in a well bore are disclosed. One apparatus includes a curved member configured for coupling to a casing, and a hollow member is connected to the curved member. A chemical container is disposed, at least in part, within the hollow space, and the hollow member extends at least partially around a hollow space.
US08342238B2
A venturi structure is supported below an ESP preferably off its gauge assembly below its motor so that the surrounding casing or wellbore defines the venturi path leading to the suction connection of the ESP. Multiple pressure sensing locations are provided in case the gauge that defines the venturi path is disposed off center in the bore or if the bore is on an incline. The gauge can receive forms of different sizes depending on the size of the surrounding tubular where the forms use an incline of preferably 15-20 degrees and allow for measuring differential near the perforations and at the constriction location so that the flow can be computed using the Bernoulli Equation.
US08342220B2
In tire manufacture, a belt structure is made by means of strip-like segments each including parallel cords incorporated into an elastomeric layer, which strip-like segments are sequentially laid down in mutual circumferential side by side relationship on a toroidal support. The apparatus for manufacturing such a reinforcing structure for vehicle tires includes: a feeding unit to supply strip-like elements, each including threadlike elements disposed parallel to each other and at least partly coated with at least one layer of elastomeric material; a laying unit including at least one laying assembly to apply each of said strip-like elements onto a toroidal support according to a predetermined laying angle relative to a circumferential extension direction of the toroidal support itself, the laying unit including at least one presser element movable in contrast relationship against the outer surface of the toroidal support and at least one guide element to keep the strip-like element centered and guide it during laying of same, wherein the guide element includes at least one cavity in which the presser element is at least partly housed during laying of said strip-like element.
US08342219B2
A tape placement apparatus in which a small roll of wound tape with an adhesive is placed in such a way that a tape can be unreeled freely from the small roll of tape, includes: a rotating table with which a tape end face of the small roll of tape makes contact after being positioned; and a table supporting section rotatably supporting the rotating table.
US08342195B2
An apparatus for washing a vehicle having a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a top side between the first lateral side and the second lateral side. The apparatus comprises a portal for allowing the vehicle to pass therethrough. The apparatus also comprises at least one nozzle mounted to the portal for directing liquid toward the vehicle. The apparatus further comprises a control apparatus for controlling the at least one nozzle to direct liquid toward the vehicle to progressively wash a limited portion of the first lateral side of the vehicle, a limited portion of the second lateral side of the vehicle, and a limited portion of the top side of the vehicle. Also provided is a method for washing a vehicle using such an apparatus.
US08342187B2
Vibrating grooming device comprising a vibrating head (1) with bristles and/or tines (3) and a handle (2), the vibrating head comprising a motor (10) and an oscillating mass (11), the device characterized by the oscillating mass being disposed to oscillate linearly along an oscillating axis.
US08342186B2
In one configuration of the present invention, a hair extension device for providing a user with the appearance of having longer, fuller hair is disclosed. The device may have a hair cluster having a hair flap which in turn comprises one or more hair wefts. The hair wefts may contain a number of hair strands connected together by seams which composes the band. The device may contain a filament which may be sandwiched between one or more flaps. The hair wefts may be sewn together with thread using a zig-zag stitch for example. The hair extension device may be reversible and the wefts may be attached to a length of lace.
US08342175B2
An inhaler for powdery, in particular medicinal, substances includes a suction air channel, which leads to a mouthpiece. The inhaler also has a storage chamber for storing the substance and a linearly moving dosing chamber for apportioning and distributing a specified amount of substance from the storage chamber to a transfer point to the suction air flow. The novel inhaler represents a structurally simple solution that makes it possible to eliminate adding an external air flow. To this end, a component of the suction air flow, which is located in the direction of extension of the dosing chamber, empties said dosing chamber.
US08342173B2
A nasal dilator capable of introducing separating stresses in nasal outer wall tissues has a resilient member and a pair of spaced-apart end surfaces which can be forced toward one another from an initial flat position of the dilator to thereby substantially reduce the direct spacing therebetween by an external spacing reducing force. This results in restoring forces in the dilator tending to return it to the original direct spacing between the end surfaces. Resilient members, which can be asymmetrical with respect to a centerline of the dilator that is parallel to the long axis of the dilator, have a spring rate which continuously diminishes from the centerline to the end surfaces. The edges of the resilient members are contiguous to the edge of the cushion layer so that adhesive on the cushion layer is at the same level as the bottom surface of the resilient members. An adhesive on the end surfaces adhesively engages exposed surfaces of nasal outer wall tissues sufficiently to keep the dilator attached to the nasal wall surfaces while subjecting them to the restoring forces.
US08342170B2
The present invention provides a liquid ejection method and a liquid ejection apparatus which enables small droplets each of diameter at most 10 μm to be stably ejected and which allows a sufficient number of droplets to be ejected per unit time. A heater is allowed to generate heat to eject a main droplet and a liquid column from an ejection port; the liquid column is to be separated into a plurality of sub-droplets. A relationship (L2/L1)≧0.9 is set for the length L1 of the liquid column observed immediately after the liquid column has been separated from the main droplet and from a liquid in the ejection port and the length L2 of the liquid column observed immediately before the liquid column is separated into the plurality of droplets.
US08342150B2
A load control system, in certain aspects, may be configured to decrease the amount of noise pollution of a prime mover (e.g., engine) of a service pack in that it may not require the prime mover to operate at higher discrete operating speeds to deliver small amounts of air from the air compressor. The load control system may also only increase the speed of the prime mover to a minimum discrete speed required, keeping noise at a minimum. The load control system may also maximize fuel efficiency by not operating the prime mover at the highest discrete speed at all times. More specifically, the lower operating speeds may lead to less fuel consumption.
US08342148B2
A throttle valve for an internal combustion engine includes a cylindrical valve housing and a spherical segment valve disc mounted within the valve housing. The spherical segment valve disc seals with the valve housing without the need for abutting interference between the valve disc or throttle plate and the valve housing.
US08342141B2
An engine cooling system in which a coolant flows through a coolant circuit includes: a pump for circulating coolant under pressure through the coolant circuit; a radiator provided in the coolant circuit, wherein the radiator cools coolant passing through the coolant circuit; a by-pass conduit, wherein the by-pass conduit allows coolant to by-pass the radiator, a flow control valve, which regulates the flow rate of coolant flowing through the radiator and the by-pass conduit; and a controller, wherein the controller controls the flow control valve in response to input signals from at least one pressure sensor and at least one temperature sensor in the coolant circuit. The flow control valve includes a first controllable valve located upstream of the radiator and downstream of the by-pass conduit, and a second controllable valve located in the by-pass conduit.
US08342137B1
An animal leash that is operable to be surroundably mounted proximate a user's waist wherein the animal leash is configured to allow the animal tethered thereto to move in a first direction and a second direction. The first direction permitted by the animal is such that the animal can move generally away or towards the user. A second direction is further allowed such that the animal can traverse in a circular direction about the user. The animal leash further includes a belt having a longitudinal track disposed therein. Captively engaged with the track is the wheel assembly, which is configured to traverse along the track. A connections module is secured to the wheel assembly and is intermediate the wheel assembly and the leash container. The connection assembly functions to disengage the leash assembly upon a substantial force being applied thereto. The leash container houses a spring-biased reel, which stores the leash. A plurality of pockets are further included which are integrally formed into the belt.
US08342136B2
An apparatus for imaging an animal includes a first mounting surface, a bed sized to support the animal and releasably secured to or integral with the first mounting surface. The apparatus also includes a plurality of straps, each having a first end in a fixed position relative to the bed and a second end for tightening around a limb of the animal. A method for in-vivo imaging of an animal includes providing an animal that has limbs, providing a first mounting surface, and providing a bed removably secured to or integral with the mounting surface and sized to support the animal as well as being coupled to a plurality of straps. The method also includes placing the animal on the bed between the plurality of straps and tightening at least two of the plurality of straps around at least two of the limbs such that the animal is substantially secured in place relative to the bed.
US08342133B2
A pet toy includes a noise making instrument. In a preferred embodiment, the noise making instrument is a squeaker incorporated within the pet toy by an internal holding pocket that is integrally molded when the pet toy is manufactured. The internal holding pocket frictionally engages the squeaker. The squeaker is located within the protected internal holding pocket such that it is very difficult for the animal to remove the squeaker. Optionally, a control element may be used to activate or deactivate the squeaker.
US08342130B2
An apparatus for the cultivation of shellfish, the apparatus including a base with a culture surface and a support attachment for the base, the apparatus characterized in that the support attachment is configured to permit rotational movement of the base relative to a support when the base is secured to the support.
US08342127B2
A hopper type squirrel resistant bird feeder which has a base having first and second ends and first and second sides, first and second end walls located proximate the first and second ends of the base and first and second side walls set inwardly of the first and second sides of the base to define a feed access area with the first and second side walls being spaced upwardly from the base, a feed cavity being defined by the base, end walls and side walls, and a seed guard extending over the feed access area, the seed guard having at least a portion spaced from the base and having apertures formed therein to permit access by birds to the feed access area. The bird feeder is of the knock down variety and can easily be disassembled for cleaning purposes.
US08342117B2
There is provided a coating apparatus capable of continuously producing coated rice having powdered coating material adhered to the grains and including a drying process to prevent the grains from being bonded to one another and make the grain surfaces smoother upon drying of the grains. The coating apparatus comprising a binder coating unit for applying liquid binder to the grains being conveyed through a coating and stirring chamber to coat the grain surfaces with the binder; a adhering unit for adding powder material to the grains conveyed through a adhering and stirring chamber to adhere the powdered material to the grain surface by the binder; and a drying unit including a drying and stirring chamber through which the grains are conveyed while being stirred, a blow passage for blowing hot air into the drying chamber to dry the grains, and an exhaust passage for exhausting the hot air from the drying chamber.
US08342111B2
A sewing machine that operates with power supplied from a main power supply includes a needle plate having a needle hole through which a sewing needle can pass, an illuminating device that illuminates the needle hole and a vicinity of the needle hole, a power supply device that stores power, a detection device that detects whether a predetermined operation is performed in the sewing machine, a power distribution device that supplies the power from the power supply device to the detection device and the illuminating device, if supply of the power from the main power supply is turned off, and a turning-on device that turns on the illuminating device, if the detection device detects that the predetermined operation is performed in a condition where the supply of the power from the main power supply is cut off.
US08342107B2
Blow molded plastic structures are provided for use in various structures such as, but not limited to, tables, chairs, walls, backboards, storage bins, sports equipment and the like. The blow molded plastic structure has a first surface and a second surface extending between a first end and a second end and forming a chamber there between. A plurality of depressions is formed on the second surface and extends into the chamber. The depressions are usually unitary structures formed by a depression wall. Generally, the steeper the depression wall, the more strength is provided to the structure. In addition, where the plurality of depressions has a low profile and a greater density, increased strength is provided to the structure. The depressions may or may not be joined to the first surface.
US08342103B2
Designs for a battery-powered, all-electric locomotive and related locomotive and train configurations are disclosed. In one embodiment, a locomotive may be driven by a plurality of traction motors powered exclusively by a battery assembly which preferably comprises rechargeable batteries or other energy storage devices. The locomotive carries no internal combustion engine on board and receives no power during operation from any power source external to the locomotive. A battery management system monitors and equalizes the batteries to maintain a desired state of charge (SOC) and depth of discharge (DOD) for each battery. A brake system may be configured to prioritize a regenerative braking mechanism over an air braking mechanism so that substantial brake energy can be recovered to recharge the battery assembly. Many locomotive or train configurations involving battery-powered or battery-toting locomotive(s) may be implemented, including the combination of a battery assembly and a diesel-electric engine on separate locomotive platforms.
US08342101B2
Disclosed is a transportation system with integrated infrastructure. In one embodiment, this infrastructure takes the form of a hollow elevated load bearing guideway structure designed to support the weight of traveling vehicles. The structure supports a backbone beam, or rail, that has multiple functions. These functions may include vehicle control, security, and energy delivery. The structure is bimodal meaning vehicles can have wheels like cars or steel rimmed wheels like a train or any combination thereof.
US08342095B2
A cylindrical casing (18) has first and second ends (33 and 31), the first end (33) being closed. The casing (18) encloses an accelerant (22) disposed adjacent the first end (33), at least one stemming mechanism (21), and a fuse (14 or 14′) extending from the accelerant (22) out of the second end (31) of the cylindrical casing (18). The cartridge (12) is made of a rupturable cylindrical casing (18) with accelerant (22) and self-stemming mechanism (22) inserted therein. A method of breaking hard (R) materials involves detonating a self-stemming cartridge (12) disposed in a borehole (B).
US08342094B2
A shaped charge includes a charge case; a liner; an explosive retained between the charge case and the liner; and a primer core disposed in a hole in the charge case and in contact with the explosive, wherein at least one of the case, the liner, the primer core, and the explosive comprising a material soluble in a selected fluid. A perforation system includes a perforation gun, comprising a gun housing that includes a safety valve or a firing valve, wherein the safety valve or the firing valve comprises a material soluble in a selected fluid.
US08342089B2
A printing screen unit (110), comprising: a printing screen (112), comprising a sheet, at least sections of at least one pair of opposite edges of which include one of engagement apertures (124) or engagement projections; and a supporting frame (114) including at least one pair of interface units (116, 117) which are attached to the at least one pair of opposite edges of the printing screen (112), wherein the interface units (116, 117) each comprise at least one coupling element (130) which includes the other of engagement apertures or engagement projections (158) for inter-engaging with the one of engagement apertures (124) or engagement projections at a respective one of the opposite edges of the printing screen (112), and an interface member (126) which includes a coupling slot (142) for captively receiving the at least one coupling element (130) therein.
US08342086B2
The invention relates to a drive device (1) for a bending press, in particular a folding press (2), comprising a press frame (3), a press table (9) and a press beam (11) that can be adjusted relative to the press table (9) via a hydraulic system (18) comprising a hydraulic pump (47), controlled drive motor (45), switch and control means and pressure lines and at least one pressure cylinder (12) which can be supplied with at least one pressure medium. The hydraulic system (18) forms a closed system together with a ring line (44) comprising the hydraulic pump (47), control valves (39, 41, 58, 84, 86, 87, 88, 89) and a pressure store (57). The ring line comprises a first line section (51) between a pressure chamber (23) of the pressure cylinder (12) and the hydraulic pump (47) and a second line section (53) between an additional pressure chamber (22) of the pressure cylinder (12) and the hydraulic pump (47). The pressure store (57) can optionally be in fluid connection via at least one of the control valves (58, 84, 86) with the first line section (51) or the second line section (53) to take up or release a storage volume of the pressure medium.
US08342084B2
A compactor device is provided including a cylindrical housing having an elongate channel for receiving a bottle to be compacted therein and elongate guide slots, an end cap attached to a first end of the housing for seating the bottle and protecting the neck end of the bottle, a piston slidably disposed within the channel and having a forward ram for stuffing the bottle, and a lever for actuating linear movement of the piston within the channel, whether manually or automated.
US08342077B1
A non-internal combustion reciprocating engine has an enhanced mechanical advantage lever system for efficiently converting linear motion from reciprocating pistons to rotary motion at a crankshaft. The engine comprises a chassis, at least two sets of binary cylinder systems mounted on the chassis, a crankshaft and a lever system. Each lever system has a piston lever, two thrust rods and a central drive lever. Each piston lever is pivotally attached to the chassis and pivotally attached to a piston rod extending from a piston cylinder. The two thrust rods are pivotally attached at one terminus to the piston lever and pivotally attached at a second terminus to the central drive lever. The two piston cylinders of each binary cylinder system work in concert to efficiently transfer power to the crankshaft.
US08342073B2
Composite armor panels are disclosed. Each panel comprises a plurality of functional layers comprising at least an outermost layer, an intermediate layer and a base layer. An armor system incorporating armor panels is also disclosed. Armor panels are mounted on carriages movably secured to adjacent rails of a rail system. Each panel may be moved on its associated rail and into partially overlapping relationship with another panel on an adjacent rail for protection against incoming ordnance from various directions. The rail system may be configured as at least a part of a ring, and be disposed about a hatch on a vehicle. Vehicles including an armor system are also disclosed.
US08342069B2
A breaching apparatus includes an impactor element and a self-contained energy source. The self-contained energy source enables the impactor element to impact a first surface of a structure. The impactor element is configured to transmit a localized shock wave through the structure upon impact. The self-contained energy source is capable of accelerating the impactor element to a velocity sufficient to induce spalling at a second surface of the structure. Multiple breaching apparatuses can be supported by a frame to facilitate simultaneous or successive breaching of the structure. The breaching apparatus can be used in a method to breach a concrete structure.
US08342062B2
A multi-angle hand tool for a handle includes a shank including a body, and a compartment defined in the body. An operating device includes a connecting end having an engaging portion defined thereon. A guide is mounted in the compartment and includes an embedding portion defined thereon. A connecting device is disposed and interconnected between the operating device and the guide. The multi-angle hand tool has a plurality of operation modes, and, in each operation mode, the operating device is prevented from moving and pivoting with respect to the shank by engaging the engaging portion with the embedding portion. Furthermore, a longitudinal length of the operating device is perpendicular to, angled non-perpendicularly to, or aligned with the longitudinal length of the body of the shank selectively for different operation modes.
US08342056B2
A telescopic shaft (5) has an inner shaft (12) and a tubular outer shaft (13) that are fitted to each other so that they can move relative to each other in the axial direction and that they can transmit torque to each other. A plurality of balls (14) are aligned between respective raceway grooves (15; 16) of the inner shaft (12) and the outer shaft (13). Limiting mechanisms (20A; 20B) are provided that limit the amount of relative rotation to not more than a predetermined amount of the inner shaft (12) and the outer shaft (13) when a ball (14) comes off the raceway grooves (15; 16). The limiting mechanisms (20A; 20B) include a pair of engagement sections (21, 22; 23, 24) engageable with each other in a circumferential direction (C1). The engagement sections (21, 22; 23, 24) are provided at ridges (25, 26) and recesses (27, 28) that are adjacent to the raceway grooves (15; 16) of the inner shaft (12) and the outer shaft (13), respectively.
US08342055B2
This invention provides a precise positioning platform by using of toggle type principle, wherein the positioning platform can be single toggle type, double toggle type, or combination with multi-link to enhance positioning platform precision.
US08342051B2
A vehicle dual clutch transmission is provided which includes a first clutch housing driven along a first axis extending generally aligned with the output axis of an engine. A second clutch housing is provided which is chain driven from the first clutch housing and extends along a second generally parallel axis. First and second input shafts are respectively driven by the first and second clutches. An output shaft or shafts is provided that is driven by the input shafts and has selective meshed torsional force transferring gear contact therewith. A differential input gear is driven by the output shaft(s).
US08342046B2
A second tank for accommodating a sample is disposed within a first tank. A heater for heating gas is provided inside the second tank. A heater controller controls the heater such that temperature of gas becomes a set temperature. A heat conducting member is disposed such that one end of the heat conducting member is positioned in the gas inside the first or second tank and the other end is positioned in the humidifying water contained in the humidifier. The heat conducting member is made of material having higher thermal conductivity than that of gas inside the first or second tank.
US08342045B2
A method of recording data relating to the posture of a subject and assessing the data so as to categorize said data into activities, including sitting, walking and standing. The method comprises sensing the movement of the thigh by use of a single sensor; recording the movement of the thigh; and processing the data so as to classify the data into discrete ones of said activities.
US08342044B2
Various embodiments disclose a flow cytometric apparatus comprising a flow chamber to be passed through by a sample in a row in sequence, a sample storage means for metering and storing the sample, a sample syringe for driving the sample into the flow chamber, a syringe-type injection-suction device comprising a sheath liquid syringe and a liquid-path switching means connected with it, and a control unit for controlling the operations of the sample syringe and the syringe-type the injection-suction means. In a sample charging stage, the injection-suction means feeds the sample into the sample storage means so that the sample is temporarily stored in it in a ready-to-use state, and in a sheath-liquid injection stage, the injection-suction means feeds the sheath liquid into the flow chamber to form a sheath flow. A flow cytometric method performed by the flow cytometric apparatus is also disclosed.
US08342036B2
A pitot-static device, comprising first and second pluralities of hollow spokes extending in a radial direction from a central hub, the hollow interiors of the spokes of the first plurality being connected so as to allow fluid communication therebetween, and at least all but one of the spokes of the first plurality having at least one aperture facing in a first axial direction that is transverse to the radial direction, and the hollow interiors of the spokes of the second plurality being connected so as to allow fluid communication therebetween, and at least one of the spokes of the second plurality having an aperture at an end portion thereof that faces in the radial direction.
US08342035B2
A Coriolis mass flowmeter having at least one measuring tube assembly (1) and at least one mounting assembly (2), wherein the mounting assembly (2) includes at least one bracket (3) mounted on the measuring tube assembly (1) and at least a part of an actuator assembly (4) and/or a sensor assembly (5) supported by the bracket (3) for oscillation generation and/or oscillation compilation so that measuring tube assembly (1) can be excited into oscillation in a reference oscillation plane (X-plane). The Coriolis mass flowmeter oscillation behavior is improved for increasing the quality of measurements by the center of gravity of the mounting assembly (2) being set in the reference oscillation plane.
US08342034B2
An apparatus and method to test a specimen is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a housing defining a passage having a length extending along a longitudinal axis, an anvil movable in the passage between a first position and a second position along the longitudinal axis, the anvil comprising a tapered shaft section, an expandable mandrel having an inner surface adapted to fit around a portion of the tapered shaft section and an outer surface adapted to receive a test specimen, and a first block to limit motion of the mandrel. In use, moving the anvil between the first position and the second position causes the mandrel to expand in a circumferential direction, thereby applying a circumferential tension force to the specimen.
US08342030B1
An apparatus comprising a housing comprising an end wall and side walls defining a first chamber open at one end a slide at the open end a diaphragm in the chamber spaced from the slide and generally parallel to it, defining, with the slide and side walls of the first chamber, a second chamber; and an opening in the first chamber for permitting fluid to enter and exit the first chamber.
US08342021B2
A composite sensor includes: a package including a container and a lid; a plurality of spaces that is partitioned by at least the container and the lid, and has different pressures, the plurality of the spaces including a first space sealed at around an atmospheric pressure and a second space sealed at a depressurized state; an acceleration sensor element disposed in the first space; and a vibration type angular velocity sensor element disposed in the second space. In the sensor, the first space has a volume smaller than a volume of the second space.
US08342012B2
In a method for performing diagnostics on line systems, in particular crank casing venting systems of internal combustion engines, a correction value for an operating parameter of the internal combustion engine is formed in each of at least two chronologically successive determining steps. The correction values or values which are derived therefrom are used to detect a faulty state of the line system.
US08342010B2
The present application provides a method of monitoring a compressor. The method may include the steps of determining a blade passing frequency, determining a power indication for a number of frequencies above and below the blade passing frequency, determining a ratio between a maximum power indication and a minimum power indication for the frequencies for a number of predetermined time intervals, and analyzing the ratio for each predetermined time interval to predict a surge condition of the compressor.
US08341998B2
A forming apparatus to bend a plate-shaped material, including: a first forming device to bend one surface of the plate-shaped material not more than 180 degrees by pressing the plate-shaped material; a second forming device to bend another surface of the plate-shaped material not more than 180 degrees by pressing the plate-shaped material; wherein the first and the second forming device perform bending while changing a relative position by interlocking with each other.
US08341997B2
The present invention is a method of forging a bevel gear, comprising: a first forging step in which a first intermediate article is obtained by pressing a blank, such that there is formed a preliminary one-end recessed part that is axially recessed in an axis-center part on an axially one-end side and/or a preliminary other-end recessed part that is axially recessed in an axis-center part on an axially other-end side; a second forging step in which a second intermediate article is obtained by pressing the first intermediate article in a hermetically sealed cavity space defined by a first die and a second die that is positioned opposedly to the first die in the axial direction, such that there are formed: a body part including a tooth part on a radially circumference thereof and a one-end recessed part that is axially recessed in an axis-center part on the axially one-end side; and a projecting part projecting from a rear surface part of the body part on the axially other-end side; and a through-hole forming step in which a bevel gear having a through hole in an axis-center part is formed by removing the axis-center part extending from a bottom surface of the one-end recessed part to the projecting part of the second intermediate article. The tooth part provides a tooth-crest surface which is tapered from the axially other-end side to the axially one-end side, and upon completion of the second intermediate article in the second forging step, there remains an unfilled space between the projecting part of the second intermediate article and a wall surface of the dies defining the cavity space.
US08341986B2
A key box construction, wherein a shaft of a door is provided with two parallel flat surfaces in axial extensions of the shaft, an outer cover is provided with bearing parts which each comprise a groove having the same width between parallel flat surfaces of the groove as the width between the two parallel flat surfaces of each axial extension and at an angle. The door is provided at the lower end portion thereof with hooks, whereby the door is hooked directly on an inner case by the hooks and a latch.
US08341982B2
A washing machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a body having a washing tub; a detergent bottle seating part provided over the body and having a detergent inlet through which a liquid detergent is entered, a detachable detergent bottle containing the liquid detergent being seated on the detergent bottle seating part; and a detergent storing part provided under the detergent bottle seating part, the liquid detergent contained in the detergent bottle being entered and stored in the detergent storing part by its weight.
US08341980B2
Integrated multiaxial articles are formed of yarns arranged in multiaxial direction in a plurality of layers bound together by a set of through-the-layers yarns. Methods and apparatus of making same are presented. Hollow integrated multiaxial fabric and its variants are introduced.
US08341972B2
An apparatus and method for controlling driving of a plurality of fan motors for a refrigerator are provided. When operated, the plurality of fan motors provided in the refrigerator is sequentially operated at certain delay times, to thus improve operation efficiency of the plurality of fan motors. The apparatus for controlling driving of a plurality of fan motors includes blowing devices that supply cool air, a driving device that generates drive signals to drive the blowing devices, a controller that controls operation of the driving device, a power device that provides operation power of the driving device and the controller, and a cutoff device positioned between the driving device and the power device that cuts off noise and a surge voltage introduced from the power device to the driving device.
US08341967B2
A heat-dissipating device (1) includes a casing (10) and a thermal insulation plate (20) provided within the casing (10). The thermal insulating plate (20) divides the interior of the casing (10) into a first accommodating space (101) and a second accommodating space (102). A hot air outlet (121) and a first air inlet (122) of the casing (10) are in communication with the first accommodating space (101). A cold air outlet (110) and a second air inlet (123) of the casing (10) are in communication with the second accommodating space (102). A thermoelectric cooling chip (30) is disposed in a through-hole (200) of the thermal insulation plate (20) and has a hot-end surface (31) facing the first accommodating space (101) and a cold-end surface (32) facing the second accommodating space (102). A heat-dissipating module (40) is received in the first accommodating space (101). A cold-airflow supplying module (50) is received in the second accommodating space (102). The heat generated by the hot-end surface (31) is dissipated to the hot air outlet (121) by the thermal conduction of the heat-dissipating module (40). The cold generated by the cold-end surface (32) is conducted and distributed uniformly by the cold-airflow supplying module (50) to the cold air outlet (110).
US08341965B2
A method for cooling a structure includes flowing a saturated refrigerant through one or more passageways in the structure while maintaining the refrigerant at a substantially constant pressure. The method also includes evaporating at least a portion of the refrigerant at a substantially constant temperature throughout the passageways in the structure.
US08341960B2
For operating a multi-heat source power plant, including a thermal collector having access to heat from a solar collector as a first heat source for heating a first fluid to a first temperature, a topping power generation cycle using the first fluid as a motive fluid, and a geothermal second heat source for heating a second motive fluid, which is different from said first motive fluid, to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, a heat exchanger transfers heat from the first fluid to the second fluid to raise the temperature of the second fluid to a higher temperature. A bottoming power generation cycle uses said second fluid, heated to the higher temperature, as a motive fluid.
US08341946B2
An exhaust-gas aftertreatment system for exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine. In one example, a portion of the engine exhaust gases goes to the particulate filter and the other portion of engine exhaust gases goes to the catalyst element. The outlet of the filter element is directed to the inlet of the catalyst element and the outlet of the catalyst element is directed to the inlet of the filter element. Thus, the engine exhaust gases are filtered and processed by a catalyst.
US08341943B2
An exhaust gas purification system has a NOx purification catalyst that purifies exhaust gas of NOx when an air-fuel ratio of exhaust of an internal combustion engine mounted on a vehicle is in a lean condition and recovers purification ability when the air-fuel ratio is in a rich condition. The system performs recovery control for setting the exhaust gas to a rich air-fuel condition in order to recover the NOx purification ability of the NOx purification catalyst, and at a time of retardation of the vehicle, both a fuel system rich control and an air intake rich control are used in the recovery control. The recovery control can be performed without worsening the drive comfort of the vehicle and with less fuel consumption.
US08341938B2
When a nitrogen oxide storage catalyst is being regenerated, the regeneration may be terminated for example as a result of a premature load change in the engine, which can lead to incomplete emptying of the storage catalyst. The residual filling level which remains in the catalyst following an incomplete regeneration of this nature is used as the starting value for calculation of the filling level during the next storage phase. After incomplete regeneration, the nitrogen oxide conversion rate is initially greater than would be expected, on account of the residual filling level. By taking this increased conversion rate into account when calculating the filling level during the storage phase, it is possible to further improve the accuracy of the calculation.
US08341937B2
An apparatus for an exhaust gas system includes a main exhaust passage, a main catalytic converter disposed in the main exhaust passage, a bypass exhaust passage, a bypass catalytic converter disposed in the bypass exhaust passage, and a valve configured to open or close a section of the main exhaust passage. The bypass exhaust passage bypasses the main exhaust passage between a branch point of the bypass exhaust passage out of the main exhaust passage and a junction with the main exhaust passage at a upstream side of the main catalytic converter. A first sensor indicates a first air-fuel ratio of exhaust gas in the bypass exhaust passage. A second sensor indicates a second air-fuel ratio of exhaust gas flowing into the main catalytic converter. A controller determines whether the valve in the closed configuration leaks exhaust gas based on the first and second air-fuel ratios of exhaust gas.
US08341935B2
An integrated, single piece mixer-center body ventilation apparatus is disclosed for use with a turbofan jet engine. The apparatus may incorporate a circumferential forward body portion adapted to be coupled to an aft end of a core engine turbine case of the jet engine, and a center body tube portion integrally formed with the forward body portion and having an axially opening vent exit. The forward body portion may have a plurality of inner mixer flow paths in communication with scalloped projecting portions. The inner mixer flow paths direct a pressurized core exhaust flow through the mixer device and mix the pressurized core exhaust flow with a portion of a pressurized fan exhaust flow, to thus significantly cool the pressurized core exhaust flow.
US08341929B2
Belt guards that overlie the interface between a flexible cutterbar assembly and a flexible draper assembly of a harvesting header define an underlying void region that is sealed against the entry of crop residue by an upright dam wall that bears against the underside of the overhanging belt guards forward of the front edge of the upper run of the belt of the draper assembly. The upright dam wall is on the front extremity of flexible support panels that underlie the upper belt run and may be essentially rigid or provided with a resilient trim seal strip.
US08341925B2
A method of packing and, for purposes of extending its shelf-life, heat treating a food product in a packaging container of paper or paperboard. The packaging container is first filled wholly or at least partly with foam containing a non-oxidizing gas, such as nitrogen, whereafter the wholly or partly filled packaging container is filled with the pertinent food product. After this filling, the packaging container is, where necessary, filled with additional foam to ensure the headspace above the product level in the packaging container is entirely filled with foam when the packaging container is closed and sealed by thermosealing. The closed packaging container filled with product and foam is thereafter subjected to the heat treatment for purposes of extending its shelf-life at a treatment temperature of at least 115° C.
US08341921B2
A steel joist member for use in supporting floor structures giving great strength and convenience and improved acoustical performance having a web defining edges, first and second side surfaces and an axis, a edge wall on at least one edge, main openings through the web at spaced intervals therealong, with rounded ends and parallel linear sides, channel portions of the web displaced from the main openings remaining attached integrally to the web by right angle bend lines formed on the first side surface of the main opening along axes parallel to the web axis, and forming reinforcing channels alongside the opposite sides of the main opening.Also disclosed is a composite joist member made up of two such joist members joined together back to back with their openings in registration.Also disclosed is a rim member for supporting the composite joists to form a floor structure.Also disclosed is a method of making such a floor joist member.Also disclosed is a floor panel system by which floor panels can be prefabricated in a factory and transported to a construction site ready for installation in a building.
US08341920B2
The present invention is directed to a metal door. The door includes a pair of sheet metal door panels. Each of the door panels includes a central body portion with top, bottom and opposing side edges. The doors include an integral flange along each side edge of each panel. The integral flange extends generally perpendicular to the central body portion. An integral inturned lip can be located along each flange and extend substantially parallel to the central body portion. The door panels are positioned such that the central body portions are in an opposing spaced apart relation to one another with the flanges adjacent to and aligned with one another. The inturned lips are positioned in contacting face-to-face relation. The metal door also includes an elongate connector overlying and clamping together each face-to-face pair of inturned lips to maintain the door panels in assembled relation.
