US08354504B2
Provided is a chimeric isoprenoid synthase polypeptide including a first domain from a first isoprenoid synthase joined to a second domain from a second, heterologous, isoprenoid synthase, whereby the chimeric isoprenoid synthase is capable of catalyzing the production of isoprenoid reaction products that are not produced in the absence of the second domain of the second, heterologous, isoprenoid synthase. Also provided is a chimeric isoprenoid synthase polypeptide including an asymmetrically positioned heterologous domain, whereby the chimeric isoprenoid synthase is capable of catalyzing the production of isoprenoid reaction products that are not produced when the domain is positioned at its naturally-occurring site in the isoprenoid synthase polypeptide.
US08354502B2
Bioactive peptides identified in enzymatic hydrolyzates of milk caseins and method of obtaining same
The invention relates to the production of bioactive products that are derived from milk proteins for the production of bioactive milk products derived from milk proteins, particularly caseins. The 16 inventive peptides can be obtained chemically, biotechnologically or by means of enzymatic treatment from proteins containing same and give rise to peptides with an antimicrobial activity, an in vitro angiotensin converter inhibitor activity and/or antihypertensive activity and/or antioxidant activity. Said nutraceutical products are suitable for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries, both in the form of a hydrolyzate or bioactive peptides.
US08354501B2
The invention provides a method for the controlled assembly of layered silk fibroin coatings using aqueous silk fibroin material. The methods described herein can be used to coat substrates of any material, shape, or size. Importantly, the described methods enable control of the biomaterial surface chemistry, thickness, morphology and structure using layered thin film coatings, or bulk coatings. Furthermore, the methods can be performed in all water and do not require intensive chemical processing enabling controlled entrapment of labile molecules such as, drugs, cytokines, and even cells or viruses to generate functional coatings that can be used in a variety of applications.
US08354493B2
A polyamic acid composition including a polyamic acid, the polyamic acid having an imidization ratio of from about 5.0% to about 25.0%, and being obtained by reacting a diamine compound, a tetracarboxylic dianhydride and an acid monoanhydride at an amount ratio that satisfies the following formula (1): 0.970
US08354492B2
The present invention relates to a system comprising a) at least one catalyst for the anionic polymerization of lactams, and b) at least one activator for the anionic polymerization of lactams, wherein the at least one activator is a cyclic isocyanate, at least one allophanate or a mixture thereof.
US08354489B2
The present invention relates to novel methods for the salt-free polymerization of borosilylamines, which comprise the structural feature Si—N—B and borosilyl hydrocarbons, which comprise the structural feature Si—X—B, wherein X may be a methylene group or a hydrocarbon chain CxHy or a cyclic hydrocarbon unit, by reaction thereof with disilazanes R3Si—NR—SiR3.
US08354482B2
The present invention provides a Mo—Bi—Nb based composite metal oxide (with the proviso that Te is not included); a method for producing (meth)acrylic acid from at least one reactant selected from the group consisting of propylene, propane, isobutylene, t-butyl alcohol and methyl-t-butyl ether, in which a Mo—Bi—Nb based composite metal oxide (with the proviso that Te is not included) is used as a catalyst; and a reactor used for producing (meth)acrylic acid from at least one reactant selected from the group consisting of propylene, propane, isobutylene, t-butyl alcohol and methyl-t-butyl ether, in which a Mo—Bi—Nb based composite metal oxide (with the proviso that Te is not included) is used as a catalyst. Further, the present invention provides a method for producing the (meth)acrylic acid without any additional process of converting (meth)acrolein into (meth)acrylic acid.
US08354479B2
The present invention provides a functional filler which is excellent in dispersibility or interaction with polylactic acid as a matrix polymer and can improve heat resistance, moldability and mechanical strength of the polylactic acid; and a resin composition containing the functional filler. The functional filler of the present invention is characterized in including a raw material filler and polylactic acid, wherein a surface or end the raw material filler is modified by the polylactic acid.
US08354478B2
The invention describes the unexpected characteristics of blends, including crosslinked reaction products of elastomeric silicone polymers with various polyurethanes and their applications in personal care products.
US08354476B2
The present application is directed to biodegradable polymers, compositions, including microspheres and nanospheres, formed of such polymers, and methods of using such polymers and compositions. In certain embodiments, the subject polymer compositions include therapeutic agents, optionally providing sustained release of the encapsulated agent after administration to a patient.
US08354467B2
An underfill formulation includes a solvent (110), a plurality of amphiphilic block copolymers (120) in the solvent, and an adhesion promoter (130) in the solvent. Groups of the plurality of amphiphilic block copolymers form a plurality of micelles (140) in the solvent, with the micelles including a core (141) and a shell (142) surrounding the core, and the adhesion promoter is in the core of at least some of the plurality of micelles.
US08354466B2
The invention pertains to a new method for formulating any agrochemical active ingredient so as to protect the user, protect this active ingredient from outside stresses, and control its release kinetics. It relies on the use of acrylic and thickening emulsions with a pH greater than five and containing hydrophobic groups in order to trap said active ingredient. The invention also pertains to the various embodiments of the active ingredient thereby formulated: a mixture in water of that active ingredient with these thickening emotions, a dispersion of solid particles of these polymers and this active ingredient after a certification, and the solid particles obtained in a dried state after the water has been removed. Finally, the invention pertains to the use of these various formulations in order to protect and active ingredient, protect its user, and slow its release kinetics.
US08354460B2
The present invention relates to a clear coat enamel composition comprising: a) at least one film-forming resin with at least two functional groups, b) at least one colorless particulate inorganic material having an average particle size of 1-500 nm before being introduced into the coating composition, c) at least one polysiloxane having at least one functional group, d) at least one colorless particulate inorganic material having an average particle size of 1-10 μm which is preferably not surface-modified, before being introduced into the coating composition, e) at least one crosslinking agent with at least two functional groups, which are reactive with the functional groups of the film-forming resin (a) and/or with the functional groups of the polysiloxane (c), f) optionally a component based on polyurea, wherein the components (a), (c), (e) and (f) are each different, composite coatings comprising a base coat enamel containing colored pigments and/or effect pigments and a clear coat enamel which is applied from this clear coat enamel composition to at least a portion of the base coat enamel layer, and substrates coated therewith.
US08354447B2
Methods are provided for treating disorders associated with mGlu receptors by simultaneously inhibiting at least two mGluRs belonging to at least two different groups. In one embodiment, there are provided methods for treating a disorder associated with mGlu receptors 2, 3, and 5, including administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of at least one antagonist which modulates mGluR2, mGluR3, and mGluRS. The disorders treated by the method include, for example, nicotine addiction, cocaine addiction, and depression.
US08354432B2
The present application describes modulators of MIP-1α of formula (I), or stereoisomers or prodrugs or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein n, A, T, R1, R2 and R8, are as defined herein. In addition, methods of treating and preventing inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergic diseases, as well as autoimmune pathologies such as rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis using the modulators of formula (I) are disclosed.
US08354423B2
An insecticidal compound of formula I wherein X is O or NR11 where R11 is hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted aryl or optionally substituted heteroaryl; Y is a single bond, C═O, C═S or S(O)m where m is 0, 1 or 2; R1, R2, R3, R4, R8 and Ra are specified organic groups and p is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6; q is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 provided that p+q is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6; or salts or N-oxides thereof; compositions containing them and their using in controlling insects, acarines, nematodes or molluscs.
US08354412B2
The present invention relates to new compounds, ligands of the beta-3 adrenergic receptor, their preparation and their use in therapy or as research tools for said receptor; the invention also relates to a process for the preparation of the compounds of the invention and the use of inverse agonists of the beta-3 adrenergic receptor as medicaments.
US08354410B2
The disclosure provides compounds of formula I, including their salts, as well as compositions and methods of using the compounds. The compounds have activity against hepatitis C virus (HCV) and may be useful in treating those infected with HCV.
US08354409B2
Disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising brimondine and timolol for topical ophthalmic delivery and a method of treatment comprising administering said composition when indicated for glaucoma and associated conditions such as elevated intraocular pressure in the eyes of humans.
US08354405B2
The invention relates to the 6-cycloamino-3-(pyridin-4-yl)imidazo[I,2-b]pyridazine derivatives corresponding to general formula (I): Wherein R2, R3, R7, R8, A, L and B are as defined herein. Also disclosed are the preparative methods and therapeutic use thereof.
US08354402B2
Polyarylcarboxamide compounds of formula (I) are useful as lipid lowering agents.
US08354401B2
Provided are a novel low-molecular-weight compound that suppresses production of induction type MMPs, particularly MMP-9, rather than production of hemostatic type MMP-2, as well as a prophylactic/therapeutic drug for autoimmune diseases or osteoarthritis. An amide derivative represented by the following formula (I) wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof, or a hydrate or solvate thereof.
US08354399B2
Substituted indazole derivatives of formula (I) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, as defined in the specification, process for their preparation and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them are disclosed; the compounds of the invention may be useful in therapy in the treatment of diseases associated with a deregulated protein kinase activity, like cancer.
US08354374B2
Peptides and their functionally equivalent derivatives, in salt form or non-salt form, effective in the treatment and prevention of tumor, with the general formula L1-X1-X2-X3-X4, wherein: L1 is H, or acyl, or any natural or non-natural amino acid; X2 is any natural or non-natural amino acid, optionally N-alkylated and/or Cα-alkylated; X4 is any natural or non-natural hydrophobic amino acid, optionally Cα-alkylated and/or amidated at the C-terminal end, or any hydrophobic amino alcohol, or a hydrophobic gem-diamine, optionally N′-alkylated or N′-acylated.
US08354365B2
Provided are a cleaning liquid for lithography that exhibits excellent corrosion suppression performance in relation to ILD materials, and excellent removal performance in relation to a resist film and a bottom antireflective coating film, and a method for forming a wiring using the cleaning liquid for lithography. The cleaning liquid for lithography according to the present invention includes a quaternary ammonium hydroxide, a water soluble organic solvent, water, and an inorganic base. The water soluble organic solvent contains a highly polar solvent having a dipole moment of no less than 3.0 D, a glycol ether solvent and a polyhydric alcohol, and the total content of the highly polar solvent and the glycol ether solvent is no less than 30% by mass relative to the total mass of the liquid for lithography.
US08354360B2
A method of treating a subterranean formation with a xanthan-viscosified cesium formate brine wherein the pH and/or another characteristic selected from density, xanthan loading, sodium formate loading, potassium formate loading and combinations thereof are modified to delay solid hydrogel formation and maintain pumpability. Also disclosed is a method of delaying onset of solid hydrogel formation, in a gel comprising cesium formate brine viscosified with xanthan polymer, comprises introducing acid into the brine in an amount effective for a pH from 7 to 11, wherein the acid introduction is before, during or after xanthan viscosification and prior to hydrogel formation, wherein the hydrogel formation in the acidified gel occurs at a later time relative to the same gel at a natural pH.
US08354359B2
Provided is a heat-sensitive adhesive agent that mainly comprises a thermoplastic resin and a heat-meltable substance capable of melting upon heating, and further comprises swellable mica.
US08354356B2
The invention relates to a process for preparing DMC catalysts by reaction of cyanometalate compounds with metal salts, wherein the reaction is carried out in ionic liquids as solvents or suspension media.
US08354355B2
A method is provided for producing particles, such as nanoparticles. The method includes introducing an ionic liquid into a deposition chamber, and directing one or more material toward or depositing one or more materials onto the ionic liquid by physical vapor deposition to form nanoparticles in the ionic liquid.
US08354351B2
A system for configuring and utilizing J electromagnetic radiation sources (J≧2) to serially irradiate a substrate. Each source has a different function of wavelength and angular distribution of emitted radiation. The substrate includes a base layer and I stacks (I≧2; J≦I) thereon. Pj denotes a same source-specific normally incident energy flux on each stack from source j. In each of I independent exposure steps, the I stacks are concurrently exposed to radiation from the J sources. Vi and Si respectively denote an actual and target energy flux transmitted into the substrate via stack i in exposure step i (i=1, . . . , I). t(i) and Pt(i) are computed such that: Vi is maximal through deployment of source t(i) as compared with deployment of any other source for i=1, . . . , I; and an error E being a function of |V1−S1|, |V2−S2|, . . . , |VI−SI| is about minimized with respect to Pi (i=1, . . . , I).
US08354346B2
A system and method for improving the performance of an integrated circuit by lowering RC delay time is provided. A preferred embodiment comprises adding a reactive etch gas to the ash/flush plasma process following a low-k dielectric etch. The illustrative embodiments implement a removal of the damage layer that is formed during a low-k dielectric etch.
US08354337B2
[Problems]There is provided a metal oxide film forming method capable of controlling a film thickness of a metal oxide even if the metal oxide is subject to a self-limited thickness.[Means for Solving the Problems]A metal oxide film forming method includes a process (1) of supplying a metal source gas to a surface of a base before a temperature of the base reaches a film formation temperature of a metal oxide film; and a process (2) of setting the temperature of the base to be equal to or higher than the film formation temperature and forming the metal oxide film on the base by making a reaction between the metal source gas supplied to the surface of the base and residual moisture on the surface of the base.
US08354331B2
A method for fabricating an integrated circuit includes patterning a mandrel over a layer to be patterned. Dopants are implanted into exposed sidewalls of the mandrel to form at least two doped layers having at least one undoped region adjacent to the doped layers. The doped layers are selectively etched away to form pillars from the undoped regions. The layer to be patterned is etched using the pillars as an etch mask to form features for an integrated circuit device. A semiconductor device is also disclosed.
US08354330B2
The present invention relates to a method of fabricating an SOI SJ LDMOS structure that can completely eliminate the substrate-assisted depletion effects, comprising the following steps: step one: a conducting layer is prepared below the SOI BOX layer using the bonding technique; the conducting layer is prepared in the following way: depositing a barrier layer on a first bulk silicon wafer, and then depositing a charge conducting layer, thereby obtaining a first intermediate structure; forming a silicon dioxide layer on a second bulk silicon wafer via thermal oxidation, then depositing a barrier layer, and finally depositing a charge conducting layer, thereby obtaining a second intermediate structure; bonding the first intermediate structure and the second intermediate structure using the metal bonding technology to arrange the conducting layer below the SOI BOX layer; step two: a SJ LDMOS structure is fabricated on the SOI substrate having a conducting layer. The present invention is capable of releasing the charge accumulated at the lower interface of the BOX layer, eliminating the effect of the vertical charge on the charge balance between the p-type pillar and the n-type pillar, and therefore completely eliminating the substrate-assisted depletion effects and elevating the breakdown voltage of the device.
US08354328B2
A semiconductor device includes a vertical type semiconductor element formed by using a silicon substrate, a P type impurity diffusion layer being formed at a back surface of the silicon substrate. The surface of the P type impurity diffusion layer is wet etched to expose a single silicon crystal surface of the P type impurity diffusion layer, and a metal layer having a work function of 4.5 eV or more is disposed to the single silicon crystal surface so that an ohmic contact is made between the single silicon crystal surface of the P type impurity diffusion layer and the metal layer without making a silicon-metal alloy layer between the P type impurity diffusion layer and the metal layer.
US08354324B2
A two-terminal mesa phototransistor and a method for making it are disclosed. The photo transistor has a mesa structure having a substantially planar semiconductor surface. In the mesa structure is a first semiconductor region of a first doping type, and a second semiconductor region of a second doping type opposite to that of the first semiconductor region, forming a first semiconductor junction with the first region. In addition, a third semiconductor region of the first doping type forms a second semiconductor junction with the second region. The structure also includes a dielectric layer. The second semiconductor region, first semiconductor junction, and second semiconductor junction each has an intersection with the substantially planar semiconductor surface. The dielectric covers, and is in physical contact with, all of the intersections.
US08354317B2
According to one aspect of the invention, a memory device is disclosed. The memory device comprises a substantially linear active area comprising a source and at least two drains defining a first axis. The memory device further comprises at least two substantially parallel word lines, at least a portion of a first word line located between a first drain and the source, and at least a portion of a second word line located between a second drain and the source, which word lines define a second axis. The memory device further comprises a digit line coupled to the source, wherein the digit line forms a substantially zig-zag pattern.
US08354309B2
Multiple types of gate stacks are formed on a doped semiconductor well. A high dielectric constant (high-k) gate dielectric is formed on the doped semiconductor well. A metal gate layer is formed in one device area, while the high-k gate dielectric is exposed in other device areas. Threshold voltage adjustment oxide layers having different thicknesses are formed in the other device areas. A conductive gate material layer is then formed over the threshold voltage adjustment oxide layers. One type of field effect transistors includes a gate dielectric including a high-k gate dielectric portion. Other types of field effect transistors include a gate dielectric including a high-k gate dielectric portion and a first threshold voltage adjustment oxide portions having different thicknesses. Field effect transistors having different threshold voltages are provided by employing different gate dielectric stacks and doped semiconductor wells having the same dopant concentration.
US08354299B2
A semiconductor component including a stack of semiconductor chips, the semiconductor chips being fixed cohesively one on top of another, is disclosed. The contact areas of the semiconductor chips are led as far as the edges of the semiconductor chips and conductor portions extend at least from an upper edge to a lower edge of the edge sides of the semiconductor chips in order to electrically connect the contact area of the stacked semiconductor chips to one another.
US08354297B2
A semiconductor device has a first semiconductor die mounted over a carrier. Wettable contact pads can be formed over the carrier. A second semiconductor die is mounted over the first semiconductor die. The second die is laterally offset with respect to the first die. An electrical interconnect is formed between an overlapping portion of the first die and second die. A plurality of first conductive pillars is disposed over the first die. A plurality of second conductive pillars is disposed over the second die. An encapsulant is deposited over the first and second die and first and second conductive pillars. A first interconnect structure is formed over the encapsulant, first conductive pillars, and second die. The carrier is removed. A second interconnect structure is formed over the encapsulant, second conductive pillars, and first die. A third conductive pillar is formed between the first and second build-up interconnect structures.
US08354293B2
An imaging optical module is designed to be placed in front of an optical image sensor of a semiconductor component. The module includes at least one element which has a refractive index that varies between its optical axis and its periphery, over at least an annular part and/or over its central part. The element may be a tablet in front of the semiconductor sensor or a lens in front of the semiconductor sensor. The direction of variation in refractive index may be oppositely oriented with respect to the table and lens.
US08354283B2
A method of making a semiconductor chip assembly includes providing a bump and a ledge, mounting a first adhesive on the ledge including inserting the bump into an opening in the first adhesive, mounting a conductive layer on the first adhesive including aligning the bump with an aperture in the conductive layer, then flowing the first adhesive between the bump and the conductive layer, solidifying the first adhesive, then providing a heat spreader that includes the bump, a base and the ledge, then mounting a second adhesive on the ledge, mounting a conductive trace that includes a pad and a terminal on the second adhesive, then mounting a semiconductor device on the bump in a cavity in the bump, electrically connecting the semiconductor device to the conductive trace and thermally connecting the semiconductor device to the heat spreader.
US08354281B2
There is provided a method of manufacturing a back-surface electrode type solar cell. The method may include: forming a conductive metal thin film on a crystalline silicon wafer; forming plate-resistant partition walls on a top surface of the conductive metal thin film; forming a metal layer in a space between the plate-resistant partition walls and then removing the plate-resistant partition walls; and removing the conductive metal thin film that is exposed by removing the plate-resistant partition walls so as to expose the crystalline silicon wafer.
US08354275B2
A method of inducing dendritic cell (DC) development by administering Macrophage-Colony Stimulating Factor is provided. M-CSF induces DCs to differentiate into subtypes, for example plasmacytoid DCs and conventional DCs. Induction with M-CSF can be achieved in vitro from hematopoietic precursors, such as bone marrow cells, or in vivo. In vitro, M-CSF-derived DCs can be used to produce cytokines and to stimulate other immune response cells. M-CSF can also be used to induce precursor cells removed from an animal to develop into DCs. In addition, these isolated DCs can be exposed to antigens to stimulate a specific immune response when reintroduced into the animal. Treatments for cancers, such as Acute Myeloid Leukemia, and autoimmune diseases such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, are also provided in the invention.
US08354271B2
A sensor includes a diaphragm having a through-hole (1), and includes a frame supporting a diaphragm and having a cavity. Kerfs are formed in a frame so as to extend from an end surface of the frame, and the wall surfaces of the kerfs are made hydrophilic. This structure can suppress the occurrence of bubbles in the vicinity of the through-hole, and efficiently remove the remaining bubbles. As a result, the bubbles adhering to the vicinity of the through-hole can be removed, and the measuring reliability of the sensor can be improved.
US08354270B2
An embodiment of the present invention provides a-method for performing a lateral flow assay. The method includes depositing a sample on a test strip at an application region, detecting a first detection signal arising from the test strip in the first detection zone, and generating a baseline for the first measurement zone by interpolating between values of the detection signal outside of the first measurement zone and inside of the first detection zone. The method may include locating a beginning boundary and an ending boundary for the first measurement zone on the test strip. Additional detection zones having measurement zones may also be incorporated with the embodiment.
US08354267B2
Transgenic microbes with an altered electrogenic efficacy, biofilms comprising such microbes, and microbial fuel cells comprising such microbes are provided. The microbial fuel cells can be operated as monitors, filtration devices, and sensors.
US08354266B2
A polycistronic expression cassette encoding proteins necessary for constructing a multi-enzyme complex was developed. Also disclosed herein is a host cell containing this polycistronic expression cassette and uses thereof in degrading biomass.
US08354255B2
A method for producing an L-amino acid is provided which includes culturing in a medium a microorganism of the Enterobacteriaceae family which has an ability to produce an L-amino acid and which has been modified so as to enhance the β-glucoside PTS activity, and collecting the L-amino acid from the medium or cells.
US08354248B2
A DNA fragment containing a gene which encodes a specific gene regulatory region alone or the gene regulatory region together with a signal peptide; a recombinant vector containing the DNA fragment; a transformant containing the recombinant vector; and a method of producing a recombinant protein by using the transformant. According to the invention, it is possible to produce a protein in a large amount at a high efficiency regardless of the kind of the recombinant protein.
US08354241B2
The present invention concerns combination of an amount of a BRS-3 agonist with an amount of a dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor such that the combination provides an effect in lowering a blood glucose level or in increasing a blood GLP-1 level in a subject over that provided by the amount of the BRS-3 agonist alone and by the amount of the DPP-IV inhibitor alone and the use of such a combination for treating or preventing obesity and diabetes and conditions related thereto and conditions ameliorated by increasing a blood GLP-1 level. The present invention also relates to the use of a G protein-coupled receptor to screen for GLP-1 secretagogues.
US08354240B2
The present invention relates to DNA sequences encoding Vmp-like polypeptides of pathogenic Borreliae, the use of the DNA sequences in recombinant vectors to express polypeptides, the encoded amino acid sequences, application of the DNA and amino acid sequences to the production of polypeptides as antigens for immunoprophylaxis, immunotherapy, and immunodiagnosis. Also disclosed are the use of the nucleic acid sequences as probes or primers for the detection of organisms causing Lyme disease, relapsing fever, or related disorders, and kits designed to facilitate methods of using the described polypeptides, DNA segments and antibodies.
US08354237B2
This application includes, in part, methods of preparing antibodies that specifically bind to methylation-controlling J (MCJ) polypeptide. In some aspects, the application also includes, hybridoma cell lines that produce antibodies that specifically MCJ polypeptide; antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof produced with the methods of the application, and methods of using antibodies and antigen-binding fragments that specifically bind MCJ polypeptide for diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
US08354236B2
Provided are methods of assessing the absence or presence of a neurodegenerative disease in a subject comprising characterizing TDP-43 in a tissue sample of the subject. Also disclosed are methods for diagnosing a neurodegenerative disease in a subject, and methods for determining the efficacy of a drug against a neurodegenerative disease. Novel antibodies that bind to TDP-43 are also provided.
US08354228B2
A method and pharmaceutical compositions useful for inhibiting the growth of solid tumors are provided. Specifically, the method is effected by administering to a subject in need thereof an agent capable of upregulating the expression level and/or activity of at least a functional portion of Sef, wherein the functional portion being capable of inhibiting RTK-mediated cell proliferation. Also provided are methods and kits for diagnosing and staging of cancer by detecting the expression level of hSef in a tissue sample, wherein a decrease in hSef expression level is indicative of cancer.
US08354223B2
The present invention relates to methods for determining the methyltransferase activity of a polypeptide and screening for modulators of methyltransferase activity, more particularly for modulators of the methylation of VEGFR1 by SMYD3. The invention further provides methods and pharmaceutical compositions for treating and preventing colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer and/or breast cancer using a modulator so identified.
US08354222B2
A method for detecting cancer uses a first detection reagent containing a first adsorbent, which is physically adsorbed by biomedical sample. The first adsorbent comprises a long-chain ester wax containing 16-46 carbon atoms or a long-chain alkane wax containing 21-30 carbon atoms and a concentration of the first adsorbent is between 5% to 10% w/w. The present invention could be widely applied for detecting various cancers based on the differential physisorption of adsorbent. The present invention can provide a method for rapidly and non-invasively detecting cancers.
US08354217B2
A salt represented by the formula (I-AA): wherein Q1 and Q2 each independently represent a fluorine atom or a C1-C4 perfluoroalkyl group, X1 represents a single bond etc., Y1 represents a C1-C36 aliphatic hydrocarbon group etc., A1 and A2 independently each represents a C1-C20 aliphatic hydrocarbon group etc., Ar1 represents a (m4+1)-valent C6-C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group which can have one or more substituents, B1 represents a single bond etc., m1 and m2 independently each represents an integer of 0 to 2, m3 represents an integer of 1 to 3, with the proviso that m1 plus m2 plus m3 equals 3, and m4 represents an integer of 1 to 3, and a photoresist composition comprising the salt represented by the formula (I-AA) and a resin comprising a structural unit having an acid-labile group and being insoluble or poorly soluble in an aqueous alkali solution but becoming soluble in an aqueous alkali solution by the action of an acid.
US08354215B2
Disclosed is a method for stripping a photoresist comprising: (I) providing a photoresist pattern on a substrate where the substrate has at least a copper (Cu) wiring and a low-dielectric layer thereon, and selectively etching the low-dielectric layer by using the photoresist pattern as a mask; (II) contacting the substrate after the step (I), with ozone water and/or aqueous hydrogen peroxide; and (III) contacting the substrate after the step (II), with a photoresist stripping solution that contains at least a quaternary ammonium hydroxide. The present invention provides a method for stripping a photoresist that enables to strip effectively photoresist films and etching residues after etching step even in a process not including an O2 plasma ashing treatment in micropatterning of a substrate having at least Cu wiring and a low-dielectric layer thereon, as in a dual damascene forming process, and, in addition, the method of the invention does not have any negative influence on the dielectric constant of the low-dielectric layer, and ensures an excellent anti-corrosivity.
US08354212B2
Disclosed is an electrophotogaphic photoreceptor that causes little or no abrasion-derived uneven image density and does not cause scratches and image defects attributable to the occurrence of scratches even after a large volume, for example, exceeding 1,000,000 sheets of printing, and that does not cause image blurring even after printing in an environment of a high-temperature and a high-relative humidity (RH) respectively exceeding 30° C. and 80%. The electrophotographic photoreceptor comprises an electroconductive support and at least a photosensitive layer and a surface layer provided on the electroconductive support and is characterized in that the surface layer contains at least a compound obtained by reacting a polymerizable compound containing a methacryl group with particles containing a functional group reactive with the methacryl group and, in the polymerizable compound, the ratio between the number of methacryl groups and the molecular weight (number of methacryl groups/molecular weight) is not less than 0.0055.
US08354209B2
A lithographic apparatus, includes a support structure configured to hold a patterning device, the patterning device configured to impart a beam of radiation with a pattern in its cross-section; a substrate table configured to hold a substrate; a projection system configured to project the patterned beam onto a target portion of the substrate; a liquid supply system configured to provide liquid to a space between the projection system and the substrate table; a sensor configured to measure an exposure parameter using a measuring beam projected through the liquid; and a correction system configured to determine an offset based on a change of a physical property impacting a measurement made using the measuring beam to at least partly correct the measured exposure parameter.
US08354205B2
A mask blank for producing a transfer mask adapted to ArF excimer laser exposure light. The mask blank has a light-shielding film on a transparent substrate. The light-shielding film has a structure in which a light-shielding layer and a front-surface antireflection layer are laminated in this order from the transparent substrate. The light-shielding layer is made of a material containing tantalum and nitrogen. The front-surface antireflection layer is made of material containing tantalum and silicon and further containing one or more elements selected from oxygen and nitrogen.
US08354197B2
A fuel cell stack (30) includes an integrated end plate assembly having a current collector (40) secured adjacent and end cell (36) of the stack, a pressure plate (42) secured adjacent the current collector (40), and a backbone (60) secured within a backbone-support plane (44) defined within the plate (42). Tie rod ends (62, 64, 66, 68) of the backbone (60) extend over a gap (84) defined between the backbone-support plane (44) and a deflection plane (50) defined within the pressure plate (42) so that the tie rod ends deflect within the gap (84) upon tightening of tie rods (78, 80). Deflection of the backbone enables the backbone (60) to permit limited expansion of the fuel cell stack (30) during operation, and the backbone (60) has adequate flexural strength to prohibit expansion of the stack (30) beyond operating dynamic limits of the stack (30).
US08354196B2
A fuel cell unit is provided having at least one fuel cell to which is connected a coolant circuit associated with a storage unit for storing and providing liquid water coolant at the fuel cell both under normal operating conditions and under frost conditions. The storage unit is set to provide a smaller amount of liquid water coolant under frost conditions than under normal operating conditions.
US08354195B2
The invention discloses an innovative fuel cell-type electrochemical energy conversion device and method of potentially high power density capability, suitable especially for stand-alone applications such as electricity-powered vehiclesThe inventive device, named “storage fuel cell”, may be viewed as a converted storage battery, including plates, electrolyte and separators that can be similar to the ordinary known lead-acid battery. Thus it can be charged from an electrical source, or discharged across an external load with the usually high surge current features of storage batteries. An innovative additional charging mode of the storage fuel cell, by chemical reactions of each electrode with fuel and oxidizer supplied at specific flow ratios, is however the prime object of this invention.Whereas all types of prior art fuel cells exchange ions between the electrodes, across the electrolyte, each of the electrodes of the instant fuel cell independently exchanges ions, only using their adjoining electrolyte.
US08354191B2
A powder of a layered lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt composite oxide for use as a positive-electrode material for lithium secondary battery is provided which, when used as a positive-electrode material for lithium secondary battery, enables a cost reduction and higher safety to be reconciled with improved battery performances.The powder of a layered lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt composite oxide for use as a positive-electrode material for lithium secondary battery is composed of secondary particles formed by the aggregation of primary particles. It has a composition represented by the following formula (I), has a volume resistivity of 5×105 Ω·cm or lower in the state of being compacted at a pressure of 40 MPa, and has a value of C/S, wherein C is the concentration of carbon contained therein (% by weight) and S is the BET specific surface area thereof (m2/g), of 0.025 or smaller. The powder has been regulated so as to have a volume resistivity not higher than the specified value and a considerably reduced carbon content while having a composition in a limited range, whereby a cost reduction and higher safety can be reconciled with improved battery performances. Li1+zNixMnyCo1−x−yOδ (I) (0
US08354187B2
A secondary battery includes an electrode group 4 in which a positive electrode plate 1 and a negative electrode plate 2 are wounded with a porous insulation layer interposed therebetween, wherein an electrode plate end portion 1a protrudes from the porous insulation layer and abuts the current collector plate 5, and the current collector plate 5 is placed in relation to the electrode group 4 so as to entirely cover the end portion 1a of the electrode group 4. Parts of the electrode plate end portion 1a abutting the current collector plate 5 are welded to the current collector plate 5 at discrete joint portions 6 on the current collector plate 5, and the joint portions 6 are discretely provided on a surface of the current collector plate 5 so that a current flowing from the electrode plate 1 to the current collector plate 5 is uniformly distributed.
US08354186B2
A battery module having a washer assembly includes a plurality of electrochemical cells. Each of the cells includes at least one terminal. A circuit board includes a plurality of apertures. Each of the apertures is configured for receiving a terminal of one of the plurality of electrochemical cells. A plurality of flat washers are coupled to the circuit board. An inner diameter of each of the washers is aligned with a central axis of each of the apertures of the circuit board and is configured to receive the associated terminal. The circuit board is configured to allow the plurality of washers to be substantially simultaneously conductively coupled to the terminals of the plurality of electrochemical cells.
US08354178B2
There is provided a method of making a heat treated (HT) coated article to be used in shower door applications, window applications, or any other suitable applications where transparent coated articles are desired. For example, certain embodiments of this invention relate to a method of making a coated article including a step of heat treating a glass substrate coated with at least a layer of or including diamond-like carbon (DLC) and an overlying protective film thereon. In certain example embodiments, the protective film may be of or include an oxide of zinc. Following and/or during heat treatment (e.g., thermal tempering, or the like) the protective film may be removed. Other embodiments of this invention relate to the pre-HT coated article, or the post-HT coated article.
US08354175B2
Metal cellular panel (8) constituting a semifinished product formed by various corrugated plate half shells (1, 1′) wherein all the contact points between the half shells (1, 1′) are welded or riveted, and preferably the axial height (b) of the cells of the panel (panel thickness) does not exceed the maximum diameter of the cells. The panel production process ensures maximum flexibility, since it is adaptable to various cell shapes, various pitches between the cells, and various cell heights (h) (measured in the plane of the panel).
US08354164B2
A semiconductive member including an alkali metal salt having the formula (M)n.X in a surface layer thereof. M represents Na+, K+, or Li+; X represents Cl−, Br−, I−, F−, CH3COO−, CF3COO−, CH(COOH)CHCOO−, (CHCOO−)2, CH2(COOH)CH2COO−, (CH2COO−)2, (HOOC)Ar(COO−), Ar(COO−)2, (HOOC)2Ar(COO−), (HOOC)Ar(COO−)2, Ar(COO−)3, (HOOC)3Ar(COO−), (HOOC)2Ar(COO−)2, (HOOC)Ar(COO−)3, Ar(COO−)4, Ar—SO3−, Ar(SO3−)2, an oligomer or a polymer having an acrylic acid anion unit, or an oligomer or a polymer having an methacrylic acid anion unit; Ar represents a benzene ring, a naphthalene ring, or a biphenyl ring; and n is a numeral equivalent to the anionic valence of X.
US08354160B2
Method of forming a very hydrophobic, extremely hydrophobic or superhydrophobic surface comprising depositing a composition comprising hydrophobic microparticles, hydrophobic nanoparticles, or a mixture thereof and a binder in sufficient quantity to provide a hydrophobic or a superhydrophobic surface on a substrate having a micropatterned surface having raised portions, recessed portions or a combination thereof.
US08354145B2
Method for applying a pattern onto a substrate, the method including the following steps: applying a layer of a paint comprising magnetically orientable pigments on the substrate; exposing the paint to a magnetic field, whereby the pigments are oriented along field lines of the magnetic field to produce a pattern in the paint layer; and solidifying the paint on the substrate; characterized in that the magnetic field is generated by a magnetic part embedded in the substrate.
US08354143B2
A capacitive touch screen and method of manufacturing such a touch screen includes providing a substrate and coating a surface of the substrate with a transparent conductive coating. An uncured conductive electrode material, such as an uncured silver epoxy material or an uncured silver or equivalent conducting metallic paste material, is disposed at least over a portion of the transparent conductive coating to establish a precursor of at least one metallic electrode at the substrate surface. A precursor of a protective hardcoat is established at least over the transparent conductive coating and/or the metallic electrode. Such precursor/undercured/uncured layers are then cured via a single common curing/firing process, which may heat the substrate and coatings to an elevated temperature, such as at about 500 degrees Celsius or above.
US08354140B2
Methods and process steps for mapping, cleaning and providing barrier coatings to interior walls of piping systems. An entire piping system can be cleaned in one single pass by dry particulates forced by air and the piping system coated in one single pass. Pipes can be protected from water corrosion, erosion and electrolysis. Pipes having diameters of approximately ⅜″ up to approximately 6″ are treatable. Piping systems such as potable water lines, natural gas lines, HVAC , drains , and fire sprinkler systems in homes, apartments, high-rise hotel/resorts, office towers, high-rise apartment and condominiums and schools, can be treated. The coating forms an approximately 4 mils or greater covering inside the pipes. Buildings can return to service within approximately 24 to approximately 96 hours.
US08354139B1
A system for impregnating a liner with a curable substance enables the liner to be used to repair or refurbish an underground conduit. The system includes a vacuum pump having a vacuum line communicably connected thereto. The vacuum line has a vacuum inlet formed therein. The vacuum line supports the liner such that the liner covers and encloses the inlet. A supply of a curable substance has an applicator line connected thereto. The applicator line is proximate the vacuum line and has a discharge port located proximate the liner supported on the vacuum line. An applicator pump moves the curable substance through the applicator line and discharge port onto the liner while the vacuum pump draws a vacuum on the liner.
US08354129B2
A food product comprising menaquinone at a level of 50 to 5,000 μg per 100 g of product.
US08354125B2
The present invention provides a method of treating Th2-associated diseases and disorders by modulating the expression or secretion of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 using interferon lambda (IFN-λ). For Th2-associated diseases and disorders, cells of a patient having a Th2-associated disease or disorder are treated ex vivo, with IFN-λ and returned to the patient. The present invention also provides a method of ex vivo treatment, in conjunction with co-administration of IFN-λ.
US08354119B2
A resorbable extracelluar matrix for reconstruction of cartilage tissue includes a mixture of collagen I and collagen II in a respective ratio of from about 1:19 to 19:1. The matrix can be utilized as a scaffold implant for vertebral or meniscal cartilage regeneration.
US08354118B2
Novel materials for controlling molluscs, such as snails and slugs, using carbohydrates including celluloses, hemicellulose complexes, and/or lignin, for inducing death in molluscs. The materials are non-toxic, will not contaminate a drinking water supply, will not harm fish, birds or wild life, will not cause any harmful effects if swallowed or absorbed through the skin, will not harm children or pets, and can be safely eaten by domestic animals and livestock that may consume such dead molluscs. The materials may be applied in various formulations at various water contents. The materials do not provide nutrition to the molluscs, and disrupt normal bodily functions resulting in death. An attractant may be included to encourage ingestion by the molluscs.
US08354111B2
The present invention relates to novel family of homologous cell attachment chimeric peptides. In particular, the present invention relates to chimeric peptides, each comprising synthetic peptides comprising (a) an M-tide comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 80% homologous to the amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO:1, 2 and 37; and (b) a core haptide comprising an amino acid sequence homologous to amino acid sequences at the carboxy termini of the and E chains of fibrinogen or other proteins comprising C-termini that are homologous to said fibrinogen sequences, wherein the M-tide and the core haptide originate from the same protein. The synthetic peptides are linked to one another thereby providing the chimeric peptides of the invention which does not occur in the native protein as a continuous sequence. The present invention further discloses pharmaceutical compositions comprising said chimeric peptides and uses thereof.
US08354102B2
The present invention provides an antibody directed to an epitope of a G-protein coupled receptor, wherein the antibody binds to the extracellular N-terminal region of the receptor and the binding of the antibody to the G-protein coupled receptor induces receptor internalization in cells.
US08354097B2
The present invention relates to a care, and/or treatment, and/or make-up cosmetic composition for keratin materials, comprising, in a physiologically acceptable medium, an efficient amount of at least one linear, branched or cyclic polymer, or dendrimer, comprising: a -POL- polymeric backbone comprising at least two repeating patterns, and at least two binding groups (A), attached on the polymeric backbone and adapted to create H links with one ore more partner binding groups, of an identical or different chemical nature, each coupling of two binding groups involving at least three H links.
US08354095B2
The biodegradable drug delivery systems described here are formulated for implantation into the nail unit and its surrounding tissues for the treatment of various nail unit conditions. The systems include greater than 30% by weight of the active agent, and may be formulated as solutions, solids, semisolids, microparticles, or crystals. Methods related to the implantation and use of the biodegradable drug delivery systems for treating nail unit conditions are also described.
US08354092B2
The present application discloses methods for identifying inhibitors with high binding-affinity for the carbonic anhydrase-IX (CA-IX) enzyme using click chemistry and uses the candidates thereof as positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents.
US08354087B2
A method for scavenging hydrogen sulfide from geothermal steam in a condenser under vacuum. A fine curtain of atomized acrolein-water droplets may be sprayed into geothermal steam condensers in an amount of approximately 2:1 molar ratio of acrolein to H2S based on hydrogen sulfide in the incoming steam from the turbine. The range being approximately 0.1 ppm to 500 ppm of sulfide. The acrolein is allowed to react with the gas phase H2S to form non-volatile aldehyde byproducts which partition into the water phase, are returned to the cooling tower and ultimately removed by normal cooling-tower blow down.
US08354085B1
The process of the invention is the separation of minor actinides from lanthanides in a fluid mixture comprising, fission products, lanthanides, minor actinides, rare earth elements, nitric acid and water by addition of an organic chelating aid to the fluid; extracting the fluid with a solvent comprising a first extractant, a second extractant and an organic diluent to form an organic extractant stream and an aqueous raffinate. Scrubbing the organic stream with a dicarboxylic acid and a chelating agent to form a scrubber discharge. The scrubber discharge is stripped with a simple buffering agent and a second chelating agent in the pH range of 2.5 to 6.1 to produce actinide and lanthanide streams and spent organic diluents. The first extractant is selected from bis(2-ethylhexyl)hydrogen phosphate (HDEHP) and mono(2-ethylhexyl)2-ethylhexyl phosphonate (HEH(EHP)) and the second extractant is selected from N,N,N,N-tetra-2-ethylhexyl diglycol amide (TEHDGA) and N,N,N′,N′-tetraoctyl-3-oxapentanediamide (TODGA).
US08354084B2
Piping for use as a pyrolysis tube in a cracking furnace, wherein the tube is formed such that it has at least one section whose centerline curves in three dimensions, to induce swirl flow in the tube. The tube can be formed as a helix.
US08354081B2
A portable fuel processing apparatus and enclosure including an enclosure having an outer wall that defines an interior space and provides a gas impermeable barrier. Attached to the enclosure is porting means for use in moving the enclosure from one location to another. A fuel reformer capable of providing sufficient hydrogen-rich reformate to a fuel cell stack for use in generating at least about 1 kW per hour is disposed within the enclosure. An optional gas detection system includes a sensor disposed within the enclosure to monitor the interior of the enclosure for presence of combustible gases. The portable apparatus can have a number of connectors for connecting the enclosure and the fuel processing systems to a source of a reformer fuel and water as well as a domestic drain. Preferred sources of fuel and water are common utility lines available in buildings. Additional connectors can be provided to couple the fuel processor with a fuel cell, for used in delivering a reformate stream, air stream and circulating cooling medium to a fuel cell and for returning a fuel cell exhaust stream to the enclosure. Moreover, the portable fuel processing apparatus and enclosure can further include connectors for establishing electronic communications with a remote process control unit. A method of installing the portable fuel processing apparatus is also provided.
US08354078B2
The present invention is to present a liquid dispensing apparatus which is capable of preventing contamination by previously aspirated liquid, even when residual liquid in a pipette tip separated from the dispensing apparatus is scattered. The liquid dispensing apparatus includes: sample dispensing arm 5 which comprises a dispensing nozzle 54b for aspirating and discharging sample on which a pipette tip 200 is attached; tip separating section 140 for separating the pipette tip 200 from the dispensing nozzle 54b; and nozzle wiping section 16 for cleaning a tip of the dispensing nozzle 54b.
US08354075B1
The present invention provides a streamline-based device and a method for using the device for continuous separation of particles including cells in biological fluids. The device includes a main microchannel and an array of side microchannels disposed on a substrate. The main microchannel has a plurality of stagnation points with a predetermined geometric design, for example, each of the stagnation points has a predetermined distance from the upstream edge of each of the side microchannels. The particles are separated and collected in the side microchannels.
US08354073B2
The present invention provides an inspection chip using light, which is able to provide an irradiation of light at a high precision. The present invention further provides an inspection chip capable of carrying out the inspection of a sample in a simple manner by using a plurality of lights.The inspection chip of the present invention comprises a light amplifier element and a sample holding section for holding a sample, in which the light amplifier element is oriented so as to face to the sample holding section, so that the light emitted from the light amplifier element can irradiate the sample held in the sample holding section.
US08354071B2
A sterilizing device is described, for sterilizing items through steam sterilization. The device has a base and a cover that couple to form an enclosed space, with an item mount provided within the enclosed space. A portion of water is provided in the base portion, which can be converted to steam in a microwave to sterilize any items placed on the mount. The device further employs several downward-facing valves to provide for the release of steam and the draining of excess or heated water.
US08354065B1
This device is an FCC Catalyst Charge Heater. The device uses a catalyst cooler to preheat FCC feedstocks. It can be used with or without an FCC Catalyst Heater in the regenerator to satisfy the FCC unit heat balance while maximizing liquid volume yield and reducing FCC emissions.
US08354039B2
Halocarbons of the structure CF3CF2CH2X, wherein X is either F or Cl or mixtures thereof prepared by: contacting at least one 2-fluorochloropropane with hydrogen fluoride in a first fluorination step in the gas phase or liquid phase under substantially anhydrous conditions, in the absence of added catalyst to partially fluorinate said 2-fluorochloropropane; contacting said partially fluorinated 2-fluorochloropropane with at least the stoichiometric molar equivalent of hydrogen fluoride under substantially anhydrous conditions, in the presence of at least one fluorination catalyst in a second fluorination step; removing said reaction products from contact with said catalyst, and isolating a substantial yield of at least 1,1,1,2,2,3-hexafluoropropane or 1,1,1,2,2, penta-3-chloropropane, or mixtures thereof, respectively.
US08354036B2
A method for the pre-treatment of titanium components for the subsequent coating thereof is provided. The method includes at least the following steps: a) etching of the component in an acidic solution containing fluoride and nitric acid (HNO3); b) activation pickling of the etched component in a solution containing at least sodium nitrate (NaNO3) and tetrafluoroboric acid (HBF4); and c) activation of the activation-pickled component in a bath containing acid or in an acidic bath containing nickel.
US08354035B2
A method of removing resist material from a substrate having a magnetically active surface is provided. The substrate is disposed in a processing chamber and exposed to a fluorine-containing plasma formed from a gas mixture having a reagent, an oxidizing agent, and a reducing agent. A cleaning agent may also be included. The substrate may be cooled by back-side cooling or by a cooling process wherein a cooling medium is provided to the processing chamber while the plasma treatment is suspended. Substrates may be flipped over for two-sided processing, and multiple substrates may be processed concurrently.
US08354034B2
A magnetic head suitable for high-density recording is provided at a high yield by a method that suppresses a reduction in reproducing output signal due to ion-beam irradiation. After an air-bearing surface of a read element, a magnetic-head element, or a row bar is mechanically polished, the air-bearing surface is irradiated with an ion beam, such that an orthographic projection of an ion-beam incidence direction onto the air-bearing surface forms an in-plane incidence angle of 30 degrees to 150 degrees or of 210 degrees to 330 degrees with respect to a track-width direction. Thereby, the formation of a short circuit due to ion-beam irradiation may be hindered.
US08354011B2
An electrolyzer cell is disclosed which includes a cathode to reduce an oxygen-containing molecule, such as H2O, CO2, or a combination thereof, to produce an oxygen ion and a fuel molecule, such as H2, CO, or a combination thereof. An electrolyte is coupled to the cathode to transport the oxygen ion to an anode. The anode is coupled to the electrolyte to receive the oxygen ion and produce oxygen gas therewith. In one embodiment, the anode may be fabricated to include an electron-conducting phase having a perovskite crystalline structure or structure similar thereto. This perovskite may have a chemical formula of substantially (Pr(1-x)Lax)(z-y)A′yBO(3-∂), wherein 0
US08354009B2
An apparatus and method for manufacturing a highly efficient flexible thin metal film-laminated strip by improves adhesiveness between a polyimide strip and a thin metal film, and removes stress from thin films laminated through magnetron sputtering, which is a dry deposition process. The stress-free flexible circuit board manufacturing method includes the steps of: a) depositing a seed layer on the substrate using the magnetron deposition source; b) depositing a compressive thin film using the single magnetron deposition source arranged next to the magnetron deposition source; c) depositing tensile thin film using the dual magnetron deposition source arranged next to the single magnetron deposition source; and d) repeating the steps b) and c) so as to sequentially and alternately deposit compressive thin films and tensile thin films thereby obtaining a thick film with a desired thickness.
US08354000B2
A method of forming plastic containers is disclosed. The method includes: providing a support platen having a cut outline and a groove outline in the top surface of the support platen and a plurality of exhaust ports in the bottom of the groove, where a plurality of spaced perforations are in the top surface of the support platen, where the groove is configured to define a cut outline; positioning a first film on the top surface of the support platen; providing a laser to cut the first film along the cut outline of the top surface of the support platen; providing a second film on top of the first film; connecting the plurality of exhaust ports and the plurality of space perforations to a vacuum source to secure the first film to the support platen; directing a jet of gas onto the second film at the to maintain the second sheet in contact with the first sheet at a seam during welding concentric with a beam from the laser to weld the first film and the second film; moving the laser and the support platen relative to each other to weld the first film and the second film along a seam outline; and providing the laser to cut the first film and the second film along the cut outline to provide a trimmed bag.
US08353999B2
In a manufacturing apparatus of an absorbent product, extended elastic yarns to be a first middle elastic member and extended elastic yarns to be leg elastic members are bonded between a first sheet and a second sheet and arranged crossing each other in manufacturing an outer covering sheet. A first middle elastic member and an inclined part of the leg elastic members crossing the first middle elastic member are simultaneously and reliably cut in a crossing area of the both elastic members by first cutting blades tilted relatively to a direction where the first middle elastic member is positioned and second cutting blades tilted relatively to a direction where the inclined part is positioned. Thus, it is possible to easily form the outer covering sheet which maintains elasticity in a required portion and has high flexibility.
US08353994B2
The propulsion system for the acceleration of projectiles is based on nitrocellulose and contains a crystalline energy carrier on a nitramine base and an inert plasticizing additive. The nitramine compound contains a structural element of the general chemical structure formula R—N—NO2, where R is a residual.The nitramine compound is present in a concentration in the range from 1 to 35% by weight, in particular in the range from 5 to 25% by weight. The nitramine compound is preferably RDX. The inert plasticizing additive is a water-insoluble polyoxo compound, if necessary in combination with a substance containing carboxyl groups. In layers near the surface an increased concentration can be present. The inert plasticizing additive is present in a concentration of 1 to 5% by weight.
US08353993B2
An aluminum alloy, an aluminum alloy wire, an aluminum alloy stranded wire, a covered electric wire, and a wire harness that are of high toughness and high electrical conductivity, and a method of manufacturing an aluminum alloy wire are provided. The aluminum alloy wire contains not less than 0.005% and not more than 2.2% by mass of Fe, and a remainder including Al and an impurity. It may further contain not less than 0.005% and not more than 1.0% by mass in total of at least one additive element selected from Mg, Si, Cu, Zn, Ni, Mn, Ag, Cr, and Zr. The Al alloy wire has an electrical conductivity of not less than 58% IACS and an elongation of not less than 10%. The Al alloy wire is manufactured through the successive steps of casting, rolling, wiredrawing, and softening treatment. The softening treatment can be performed to provide an excellent toughness such as elongation and impact resistance and thereby reduce fracture of the electric wire in the vicinity of a terminal portion when the wire harness is installed.
US08353988B2
Rotating pressure distributor (I) for a carousel-type machine for treating hollow bodies in a plurality of identical treatment stations, comprising two rings, (2) fixed and (3) rotating, in sealing contact, the ring (3) having orifices (6) each adapted for being connected to a station and opening onto the contact face (5) thereof, the ring (2) having at least one aperture (7) which may be connected to a pressure source and opening onto the contact face (4) thereof by being on the trajectory of the orifices (6); grease is spread between the contact faces (4, 5) of the two rings (2, 3) to provide the seal; at least one annular channel (13) covers the annular opening (19) of the joint plane (P) and is connected to the atmosphere; in the channel respective flanges (14) are mutually interlaced without contact with one another, forming chicanes; the channel is filled with grease.
US08353987B2
A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes introducing a material and a carrier gas into a heated chamber. The material may be a semiconductor material, such as a cadmium chalcogenide. A resulting mixture of vapor and carrier gas containing no unvaporized material is provided. The mixture of vapor and carrier gas are remixed to achieve a uniform vapor/carrier gas composition, which is directed toward a surface of a substrate, such as a glass substrate, where the vapor is deposited as a uniform film.
US08353986B2
In a substrate processing apparatus comprising a processing unit where a specific type of processing is executed on a wafer and a transfer chamber through which a wafer is carried into/out of the processing unit, the transfer chamber includes an air intake unit through which external air is drawn into the transfer chamber, a discharge unit disposed so as to face opposite the air intake unit, through which the discharge gas in the transfer chamber is discharged and a discharge gas filtering means disposed at the discharge unit and constituted with a harmful constituent eliminating filter through which a harmful constituent contained in the discharge gas, at least, is eliminated.
US08353985B2
A process for producing colloidal crystals immobilized with a polymer, comprising the steps of: preparing a monomer-dispersion in which colloidal crystals having a three-dimensionally ordered array state are formed by adding, to a monomer-containing liquid containing at least one kind of monomers, colloidal particles having an average particle size in a range from 0.01 μm to 10 μm and a degree of monodispersity expressed by a following equation (1) of 20% or below, [Degree of monodispersity (unit: %)]=([Standard deviation of particle size]/[Average particle size])×100 (1) and then by dispersing the colloidal particles so as to arrange the colloidal particles in a three-dimensionally ordered array state at which a reflection spectrum thereof exhibits a reflection peak; and obtaining the colloidal crystals immobilized with a polymer by polymerizing the monomers in the monomer-dispersion.
US08353975B2
A process for producing a fleece having metallic wire filaments, includes at least the following steps:a) forming a layer including wire filaments;b) producing first cohesive connections between at least some of the metallic wire filaments in a first joining process; andc) producing second cohesive connections between metallic wire filaments in a second joining process. A process for producing a honeycomb body having at least one fleece, a fleece, a honeycomb body, an apparatus and a vehicle using fleeces in the treatment of exhaust gas from motor vehicles, are also provided.
US08353974B2
Methods of manufacturing a superabrasive element and/or compact are disclosed. In one embodiment, a superabrasive volume including a tungsten carbide layer may be formed. Polycrystalline diamond elements and/or compacts are disclosed. Rotary drill bits for drilling a subterranean formation and including at least one superabrasive element and/or compact are also disclosed.
US08353972B2
Disclosed is a novel synthetic fuel as alternative to diesel, wherein said synthetic fuel comprises branched esters and wherein the fuel having improved fuel properties such as zero aromatic, zero olefin, zero sulphur, low pour, high cetane diesel fuel with improved lubricity and oxidative stability. Further, the present invention provides a method of preparation of said esters.
US08353971B2
A flexible-envelope type battery and an electrically conductible sealing structure thereof and an assembling method thereof are provided. The battery includes an electrode pair, a flexible envelope and a pair of electrically conductible sealing structures. Each sealing structure includes a conductive terminal and a fixed member. The conductive terminal includes a bottom board and a protruding block, for conducting an electric current from the electrode pair to the outside. The bottom board is disposed within the flexible envelope and combined with the electrode pair. The protruding block is disposed on the bottom board for passing through and protruding from an upper surface of the flexible envelope. The fixed member is for tightly fixing the flexible envelope and the conductive terminal.
US08353969B2
Methods and devices for controlled evaporation of solvent from a solution are provided. In one embodiment, a method for controlled evaporation of solvent from at least one solution includes filling a selected first set of wells in a multi-well plate with a first solution comprising at least one first solvent. The method also includes attaching an inlet manifold to the plate, the inlet manifold comprising an inlet port connected to and in fluid communication only with each of the wells in the selected first set of wells. The method further includes attaching an exhaust manifold to the plate, the exhaust manifold comprising an exhaust port connected to and in fluid communication only with each of the wells in the selected first set of wells. The method also includes introducing a gas into the inlet port and removing solvent vapor from the selected first set of wells.
US08353968B2
A spring orthotic device comprising a cradle for contacting the foot of a user, a spring plate underneath the cradle, a ventral pivot beneath the spring plate, and a dorsal pivot above the spring plate and below the cradle located proximally of the ventral pivot.
US08353967B2
A biocompatible, self-supporting, curved, collagen membrane adapted to be secured by bone tacks or bone screws over exposed bone at a desired bone graft site in the alveolar ridge of a patient such that the membrane defines a space having a predetermined height and width over the exposed bone, in which the membrane maintains its structural integrity for at least 4 months after implantation at the bone graft site and then naturally breaks down and is resorbed by the patient's body, a method of making such a membrane, and a method of using such a membrane for vertical augmentation of the alveolar ridge of the patient.
US08353964B2
An artificial spinal disc prosthesis that can be implanted to replace a damaged natural spinal disc. A nucleus of compressible elastomeric material is surrounded by a winding of a slender strand of flexible tension-bearing material oriented at a pitch angle relative to a central axis. The orientation of the winding provides the prosthesis a limited amount of freedom of movement and flexibility. A pair of end caps of the prosthetic implant include angulated grooves that allow for insertion of the device between vertebral bodies from any of several directions. Special fasteners provide protruding points useful in anchoring the prosthesis.
US08353963B2
An expandable implant is disclosed having an adjustable height for insertion between two adjacent bony structures or joint surfaces, for example between two adjacent spinal vertebrae. The implant includes at least one gear associated with at least one threaded shaft. Rotation of the gear engages the threaded shaft to expand the implant. The implant can be inserted in a collapsed configuration and expanded in situ. The invention also provides methods for using the implant to facilitate arthrodesis or fusion of adjacent joint surfaces or spinal vertebrae.
US08353960B2
A process for making a polymeric product having a gradual variation in modulus through at least a portion of the product is disclosed together with an artificial spinal disc formed using the process.
US08353955B2
Prosthetic implant of the type comprising: a tubular support (12) of axis X, which can be deformed between a compressed state with a small diameter and a dilated state with a larger diameter, the tubular support comprising a lattice comprising rhombus-shaped meshes (26), each mesh having a first diagonal (28) parallel to the axis X and a second diagonal (32) perpendicular to the axis X; and at least one resilient membrane (14A, 14B) arranged inside the tubular support. The membrane comprises a fixing portion (48, 52), the fixing portion being fixed to a fixing section (65, 66) delimited by a strand (20A, 20B) of the tubular support, the fixing section being oriented substantially parallel to the axis X.
US08353954B2
A prosthetic heart valve includes an annular stent having annularly spaced commissure portions. The tips of the commissure portions are preferably covered with fabric, and then additional fabric covers that fabric and the remainder of the stent, both inside and out (possibly also including a sewing ring insert at or near the base or inflow edge). The fabric is then covered by a layer of tissue, again both inside and out. A single sheet of additional tissue is mounted around the outside of the previously assembled components. This additional tissue forms the leaflet portions of the valve. The leaflet portions of the additional tissue are shaped by contact with a shaped mandrel, and the tissue of the structure is subjected to fixation (e.g., cross-linking) to produce a completed valve.
US08353946B2
The present invention, in preferred embodiments, provides delivery and deployment apparatuses for bifurcated stents capable of comfortably cradling the corina of bifurcated target tissue between the arms of the bifurcated stent as each arm of the bifurcated stent is delivered to a respective side branch. In particular, a family of apparatuses is provided that may be indicated for vascular and non-vascular intervention.Additionally, these apparatuses do not require the use of an ancillary means, such as one or more balloon catheters to achieve complete and precise deployment. In preferred embodiments, delivery and deployment devices in accordance with the present invention also provide, direct visualization, deployment safety features and enhanced physician control.
US08353943B2
The disclosure relates to an implantable woven graft for bridging a defect in a main vessel near one or more branch vessels. The graft includes a region of reduced density. Reduced density regions are alignable with at least one of the one or more branch vessels, and are suitable for in situ fenestration, for example by perforation. The disclosed examples are particularly suited for bridging abdominal aortic aneurysms.
US08353941B2
The invention relates to a sleeve (1), for a bone fixation element, in particular, a wire (10), comprising A) two tubular elements (3; 4), having a common longitudinal axis (2), each with a central drilling (8) of the same diameter (D), an external end (20; 21) and an intermediate end (22; 23) with a front face (28; 29) and B) a shearable connector web (5), fixed to the two tubular elements (3; 4), outside the central drilling (8), by means of which the two tubular elements (3; 4) are axially connected to each other.
US08353940B2
Self-anchoring slings and deployment mechanisms for use therewith in selectively positioning a sling into position within the body. According to a preferred embodiment, a system is provided for securing a sling into fixed position within a target site of soft tissue within the body. The system includes an implantable sling having an elongate segment of material with an anchor mechanism formed on the ends thereof. The system also includes a non-mechanically assisted deployment mechanism for positioning the anchor mechanisms within the target site. The deployment mechanism has a manually operable handle having a deployment member extending distally therefrom, the deployment member being detachably fastenable to a respective one of said anchor mechanisms of said implantable sling. The deployment member is configured to guide the anchor mechanism through the soft tissue to the target site, and insert said anchor mechanism into said tissue at said target site.
US08353928B2
A method for wound-healing is disclosed where the method comprises providing a housing forming a cavity, the cavity comprising at least one opening configured to encompass at least a portion of a wound region of a patient. The method includes sealing a perimeter of the at least one opening to a surface of the patient proximate the wound region and absorbing a wound fluid in the cavity. A chamber is provided in communication with the cavity, and would fluid is electrochemically removed from the cavity into the chamber.
US08353927B2
A radial artery compression device configured to be secured to a wrist or other portion of a patient to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site or other physiological portion of a patient to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a rotatable member and a compression pad adapted such that rotation of the rotatable member does not affect the rotational orientation of the compression pad. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a single rotation of the rotatable member results in complete extension or retraction of the radial artery compression device. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the rotation of the rotatable member results in a compounding of the extension or retraction of the compression pad relative to the body of the radial artery compression device.
US08353923B2
A rotational device for removing an occlusion from inside a tubular structure, the device comprising a drive shaft for insertion over a guidewire into a tubular structure and an abrasive element on the drive shaft having its centre of mass offset from a longitudinal axis of the drive shaft. A solid counterweight is disposed on the drive shaft spaced from the abrasive element and having its centre of mass offset from the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft so that the abrasive element moves in an orbital path around said axis to abrade an occlusion from inside the tubular structure when the drive shaft rotates around the guidewire.
US08353920B2
A suture instrument includes a gripping portion that grips a plurality of tissue pieces by sandwiching them, and a suture needle that punctures and sutures the plurality of tissue pieces, the suture needle is supported so as to be able to move forwards or backwards relative to the gripping portion, and a direction of the forward or backward movement of the suture needle is set in a direction that intersects the tissue pieces gripped by the gripping portion.
US08353906B2
A method and apparatus for dehydrating, electro-oxidizing, or electro-reducing a target tissue is described. The apparatus utilizes an electrochemical probe or other device to deliver one or more beneficial agents into the target tissue. Water from the target tissue provides a precursor that may be split by electrolysis to generate the beneficial agent. Alternatively, water is provided from an external source to generate the beneficial agent. The beneficial agent facilitates in situ oxidation and/or reduction of a material within the tissue. One type of beneficial agent is ozone.
US08353892B2
Devices and methods for simultaneous injection or delivery of two or more substances from separate syringes. The syringes are loaded into a device that has a handle and a screw driven mechanism for simultaneously depressing the plungers of the syringes. The user grasps the handle and positions the device. Thereafter, the screw mechanism is used to simultaneously advance the plungers of the syringes thereby simultaneously expelling the substances from the syringes.
US08353888B2
An article has a body facing engagement surface for contacting a wearer's tissue layer. The body facing engagement surface has a first state adapted to inhibit movement of the article with respect to the wearer's tissue layer, and a second state adapted to enhance movement of the article with respect to the tissue layer. The body facing engagement surface is adapted to transform from the first state to the second state upon application of a force greater than a threshold force. The body facing engagement surface has a gripping component that overlies a sliding component in the first state. The gripping component is disposed for engaging and gripping the tissue layer in the first state until a force greater than the threshold force is encountered which transforms the engagement surface to promote relative sliding motion between the engagement surface and the tissue layer.
US08353877B2
The invention relates to a method and device for treating or preventing or suppressing a disease or condition in a non-human animal. The method comprises the steps of providing a single delivery device containing two components for sequential delivery from the delivery device. A first component is delivered from the single delivery device into a teat canal of a non-human animal and subsequently the second component is delivered from the single delivery device into the teat canal. The components are delivered without substantial mixing of the components.
US08353866B2
The present invention relates to a mixing syringe device for delivering a medicament or medical composition to a site of interest. The mixing syringe device generally includes a multi-chambered open lumen and optionally a sectioned plunger. The open lumen has at least two longitudinally oriented chambers within the interior of the lumen, and the optional sectioned plunger has at least two longitudinally oriented extensions corresponding in configuration to the at least two longitudinally oriented chambers of the open lumen and configured to be reciprocatably disposed in the chambers of the open lumen. Each compartment of the lumen is configured to store a medicament component or medical composition component in its interior. In certain embodiments, each compartment is sealed at one end by a movable stopper mechanism and sealed at the other end by a sealing mechanism capable of temporarily or otherwise opening. Methods of use are also provided.
US08353862B2
A delivery system includes a housing along with a tip connected to one end of the housing. A first cannula extending from the tip is provided for inserting a rod implant into tissue. A second cannula, concentrically disposed within the first cannula, is utilized to force the rod implant from the first cannula and for ejecting a fluid behind the inserted rod implant in the tissue.
US08353852B2
An ophthalmic sizing device includes a sizing tube or set of such sizing tubes for use in determining a correct size of a bypass tube required in lacrimal surgery, each sizing tube having a flanged end at one end of a longitudinal length of tubing, the remaining end of the tubing distal to the flanged end having a series of ruled markings longitudinally along and towards the flange end. When used, a set of sizing tubes includes tubes having at least two relatively different absolute longitudinal lengths of tubing; and/or diameter flanges. The device can be in the form of a dilator having a sizing section. The use of such sizing devices allows the length of an ophthalmic bypass tube to be determined that leaves the tip of the bypass tube, when in situ, to protrude an optimally desired distance beyond the outer (lateral) nasal wall and into the nasal cavity of each particular patient, while remaining clear of the midline septum. Such a proud projection of bypass tubing helps prevent the bypass tube from being blocked after its permanent insertion.
US08353846B2
Methods, articles of manufacture, and systems for evaluating tinnitus are disclosed herein. According to various embodiments, a tinnitus evaluation system may include a tinnitus evaluation module configured to perform one or more tinnitus evaluation tests. A tinnitus evaluation test may comprise generating a first single-frequency sound based at least in part on a sound of a patient's tinnitus, and generating a narrow-band sound centered at the frequency of the first single-frequency sound. Tests include a hearing threshold test, a loudness match test, a pitch match test, a bandwidth match test, a minimum masking level test, and a residual inhibition test.
US08353845B2
An apparatus for measuring lung ventilation, comprising: a pressure device to measure volume of air flow; an aerosol-generating device that provides aerosol particles to be released at a determined point in a breathing cycle; a mouthpiece with a detector that measures the concentration of aerosol particles for a given volume during the breathing cycle; and a computing device configured to provide lung ventilation data as a function of time constants.
US08353842B2
Embodiments of the present disclosure includes a portable pulse oximeter, such as a handheld pulse oximeter, that provides a user with intuitive key navigation for device operation, which reduces an amount of visual concentration needed to handle and operate the oximeter. In various embodiments, the portable pulse oximeter includes one or more of user input keys disposed along curve, an alignment edge providing guidance by feel of a user's digits to the input keys, raised convex keys also providing navigation by feel, a protective boot disposed around various portions of the oximeter housing to protect against impacts, a table-top stand, combinations of the same, or the like.
US08353822B2
A molded elastomer for an endoscope is provided, which includes a fluorine-containing elastomer and a filler. The filler includes thermal black in a content of 1 to 10 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the fluorine-containing elastomer, and plate alumina in a content of 2 to 10 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the fluorine-containing elastomer.
US08353821B2
The present invention provides a capsule-type medical apparatus and a method of manufacturing a capsule-type medical apparatus which can prevent a contact between a burr formed on an optical dome which is a part of a capsule-like casing and a living body in a subject. The capsule-type medical apparatus has a capsule-like casing which can be introduced inside the subject. The casing is configured with optically transparent optical domes and a cylindrical trunk member having an outer diameter dimension larger than an outer diameter dimension of the optical domes. The cylindrical trunk member is fitted onto an outer circumferential surface of the optical domes so as to cover each of the optical domes up to a portion near the burr formed thereon. The cylindrical trunk member has a step higher than the burr so as to prevent a contact between the burr and a living body in the subject.
US08353814B2
A method for securing a compliant scaffold to an outer surface of a vascular graft includes positioning the scaffold radially about an elongated support tube which includes first and second radially outwardly flared end portions respectively defining first and second open ends of the support tube. The method further includes pulling the vascular graft through a lumen of the support tube, and axially deploying the scaffold over the first end portion of the support tube and into compliant contact with the outer surface of the vascular graft.
US08353809B2
A method for using an exercise device for facilitating a user to perform a variety of exercises using an exercise ball supported on the device is disclosed. The device comprises a pouch having a mouth end wherein the pouch is configured to form a seat portion to the user. The device further includes a plurality of linking members attached to the mouth end by an attachment means and a plurality of straps. The lower end of the plurality of straps is secured to the linking members and the upper end of the plurality of straps is attached to a securing means. Each of the pair of straps is crisscrossed in preparation for attachment to the exercise ball. The crisscrossed straps are looped around the ball and secured by using the securing means. The crisscross arrangement of the straps securely holds the exercise ball in relation to the seat portion.
US08353791B2
A system for tracking balls in sports in which players kick, pass, bounce, strike or carry a ball. The ball is equipped with two beacons pulsing in the 5-10 Hz range at a frequency which is not attenuated by the body of the players. one beacon has a very short range of 40-120 cm and the other has a range of 1-5 meters. A data logger worn by the players includes a clock, location and speed sensors, a receiver for the beacon signals and a micro controller to record the data from all the sensors. The micro controller is able to record whether the player is in possession of the ball or is contesting the ball. The path of the ball from player to player is tracked relative to the playing field. An impact or pressure sensor may be fitted to the players footwear, glove or a bat stick, club or racquet to register a kick or ball strike.
US08353785B2
An iron-type golf club head is disclosed having a first piece including a portion of an iron-type face. A second piece including a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, a top-line portion, a hinge region, and a front opening for receiving the first piece is also disclosed. A first contact surface of the first piece is connected with a second contact surface of the second piece at a contact interface. A continuous weld extends along the contact interface attaching the first and second pieces together at the contact interface. The continuous weld includes a fusion zone occurring substantially on the iron-type face outside the hinge region of the club head.
US08353783B2
A golf club head with sound tuning composite members forming at least a portion of the surface of the golf club head is disclosed herein. The composite members being a composite layer made out of a sandwiched core layer that is interposed inside the midsection of the composite member to provide vibration damping and sound tuning characteristics.
US08353780B2
Golf clubs and golf club heads, such as putter heads, may include a putter body and an adjustable ball striking face insert forming at least a portion of the ball striking face and contained within the putter body. The insert may have a plurality of sides, each of the sides having different performance characteristics to permit customization of the putter. In some examples, the adjustable ball striking face insert may be rotatably mounted within the putter head. Additionally or alternatively, the insert may be removably mounted within the putter head. In some arrangements, the insert may be finely adjustable to alter the loft angle of the putter head.
US08353761B2
A progressive game is implemented on a gaming system, wherein the gaming system includes one or more gaming machines connected to a game server, and wherein the progressive game has a progressive prize value that increases according to a progressive prize growth rate. The progressive game includes a selectable targeted progressive prize value, a selectable targeted progressive prize time, and one or more enticement factors. The progressive prize growth rate is calculated using the selectable targeted progressive prize value, the selectable targeted progressive prize time, and the one or more enticement factors. Additionally, a random number generation algorithm tests to determine if there is a progressive prize win at each predetermined time period. The selectable targeted progressive prize time is used to calculate the predetermined time period for testing for a progressive prize win. If a progressive prize win has not been identified, the progressive prize value is incremented by the progressive prize growth rate. If a progressive prize win has been identified, a random number generation algorithm determines one or more winners of the progressive prize.
US08353759B2
A gaming table with an upper surface that includes a gaming chip placement area and a lower surface opposite the upper surface is provided. The gaming table also includes a housing coupled to one of the upper surface and the lower surface of the gaming table, an antenna coupled to the housing, wherein the antenna is configured to form an electromagnetic field that defines a zone of communication in which a gaming chip including a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can be read. The gaming table also includes a substantially-contiguous highly permeable magnetic material layer coupled to the antenna, the highly permeable magnetic material layer defining an outermost boundary of the zone of communication of the antenna, such that a strength of the electromagnetic field at any region beyond the defined boundary of the zone of communication is below a threshold level for communication with an RFID gaming chip, and a reading device coupled to the housing, wherein the RFID reading device is configured to read data transmitted by an RFID gaming chip when the RFID gaming chip is in the zone of communication.
US08353755B2
A gaming system and method for conducting a wagering game includes a powerup feature. A wager input receives a wager from a player to play a single play of a wagering game. At least one display displays a plurality of reels with symbols. A controller is coupled to the wager input and the at least one display. The controller is operative randomly generate an outcome of the wagering game from a plurality of wagering game outcomes. The controller displays the randomly generated wagering game outcome on the plurality of reels. The plurality of outcomes includes the award of a powerup to a player. The powerup allows the player to activate a game enhancement feature on a future play of the wagering game. The plurality of wagering game outcomes can also include a credit award. A player may select the credit award or an offered powerup.
US08353746B2
An air conducting device is used for removing heat from at least one component by directing airflow flowing along a first direction. The first direction is parallel to the at least one component. The air conducting device includes an airduct receiving the at least one component therein, and an air guiding member. The air guiding member is attached to an inner side of the airduct. The air guiding member includes a plurality of resilient legs. The legs extend diagonally relative to the first direction in a first state. The legs are able to accommodate the at least one component in a second state. Each leg in the first state is able to serve as a barrier to the airflow.
US08353738B2
Methods of using in situ finishing information for finishing workpieces and semiconductor wafers are described. Methods of using yield information at least in part related to cost of manufacture for finishing workpieces and semiconductor wafers are described. Changes or improvements to cost of manufacture of a workpiece using current in-process cost of manufacture information, tracked current in-process cost of manufacture information, or current cost of manufacture parameters are discussed. Appreciable changes to quality or cost of manufacture of a workpiece using tracking, using in-process tracked information, networks including a multiplicity of apparatus, and using in situ finishing information are discussed. A factory, apparatus, and methods to change or improve process control are discussed. A factory, apparatus, and methods to change or improve real-time process control are discussed. A factory, apparatus, and methods to change or improve feedforward and feedback control are discussed. The workpieces can be tracked individually or by process group such as a process batch.
US08353734B1
A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster incorporates at least one lower unit housing tiltably attached to a base at a base lower unit cutout laterally offset from a helm platform. Tilt actuator(s) disposed entirely above a base upper surface tilt each lower unit up or down relative to the base. Two positive down-tilt means are disclosed: housing arm lower edge(s) resting on the base upper surface, and also down stop tab(s) extending from a base lower unit cutout wall into the base lower unit cutout against which a forward housing wall edge butts when the housing is tilted fully down. In addition, base bores through the base are disclosed, and pins which slidably fit into respective base bores and extend downwards from the base to serve as positioning stops when installing the hydraulic thruster on a vessel.
US08353730B1
A probe connector includes an insulating housing defining inserting passages each longitudinally penetrating therethrough with a blocking rib being protruded in a periphery inside thereof. A probe has a base board of which a front end has a contact head stretched forward out of the inserting passage, and a rear end has a resisting board extending downward from an end edge thereof and two blocking boards protruded downward from two side edges thereof for cooperating with the blocking rib to prevent the probe from sliding out of the inserting passage. A terminal has a base plate blocking a rear end of the inserting passage, and an elastic arm extending forward from a top of the base plate with a free end designed as a contact portion abutting against the base board. An elastic element is retractably located between the resisting board and the base plate.
US08353729B2
A low profile connector system. In one set of embodiments, a low profile plug receptacle is provided that is thinner than a standard plug receptacle, thereby allowing the plug receptacle to be incorporated in small form factor (e.g., very thin) electronic devices while maintaining compatibility with standard plug connectors. In another set of embodiments, different types of custom plug connectors are provided that can improve the aesthetics of an electronic device housing the low profile plug receptacle when the custom plug connector is attached. In another set of embodiments, features are provided for preventing a plug connector from unintentionally falling out of, or coming loose from, the low profile plug receptacle and/or preventing a plug connector from rotating within the receptacle.
US08353726B2
An electrical connector includes an insulated housing defining an uninterrupted tongue portion with opposite first surface and second surface, the first surface defining a rib and a plurality of contacts loaded in the tongue portion. The contacts include first contacts with contacting sections loaded in the first surface at one side of the rib, second contacts with contacting section loaded in the first surface at another side of the rib and third contacts with contacting section loading in the second surface opposite to the rib. Each of the first and third contacts is composed of signal contacts and grounding contacts. Two distinct grounding bars are embedded in the tongue section and touch with front ends of grounding contacts of the first and third contacts respectively to reduce cross talk between signal contact of the first and third contacts.
US08353718B2
A handle assembly is for use with an electronic device having a chassis, where at least a portion of the handle assembly is part of a path that crosses through the chassis. The handle assembly has a handle member moveable with respect to the chassis, wherein the handle member has a profile to allow for gripping by a user to move the electronic device. The handle assembly has an electrical contact to make electrical connection with the grounding mechanism of the chassis upon the handle member being moved to a first position.
US08353713B2
When a hobby enthusiast has recharged the battery for a remote controlled vehicle, such as a scale facsimile automobile, boat, helicopter or airplane, the battery must be connected again to the vehicle drive system, to provide power. This operation is typically performed by connecting each lead of an electronic speed controller to each corresponding lead of the battery, through a removable barrel receptacle lead and a mating barrel plug lead respectively, attached to each corresponding lead. An improved connector lead is described herein that protects components that may be attached to either lead in a connection. The charge dissipates in a resistive member that is physically coupled to a conductive member to form at least in part a first lead. When an improved lead is connected to a mating lead, the connection initially provides a charge dissipation path through the resistive member, but subsequently provides a bypass, current carrying conductive path around the resistive member from one component to another. By making use of an improved connector, electrical components are protected, not only from hot-swap current, but also from electrostatic discharge in general.
US08353710B2
A low-voltage contactor with an actuating unit, a stationary contact, and a contact carrier operated by the actuating unit and including a movable contact, a spring with a first end and a second end acting on the movable contact to produce a force that reduces the electrical resistance between the contacts, and a connecting means for connecting the contact carrier to the actuating unit. The contact carrier includes a framework part including the connecting means, a holder part including a holding member adapted to receive and hold the movable contact and the spring. The holder part and the framework part are detachably connected to each other and designed so that the first end of the spring is acting on the movable contact held by the holder part and the second end is acting on the framework part when the framework part and the holder part are connected to each other.
US08353707B2
An electrical connector comprises a PCB (220) having a front edge to be inserted into a mating receptacle. The PCB comprises a top face having a row of first mating pads (242), and an opposite bottom face having a row of second mating pads (262) and a row of third mating pads (264) behind the second row of mating pads. The first and second mating pads are compatibly fit with an SFP receptacle (120). The PCB comprises a first sub-PCB (540) having a first outer layer containing the first mating pads and an opposite second outer layer containing the second mating pads, and a second sub-PCB (560) attached to the second outer layer on an area behind the second mating pads, the second sub-PCB having a second outer layer containing the third mating pads.
US08353704B2
A training simulator may be used to present a number of different scenarios to a user, and to evaluate the user's response to the scenarios. In some implementations, the training simulator may include a simulation timer that advances at a rate that is different than real-time, such as a real-time minute equaling an hour of simulated time. For each of the scenarios presented during a training episode, the user may respond by selecting one or more possible decision options, each relating to a different way to address the situation presented in the scenario. The user's response may be scored, according to certain implementations, by adjusting the value of multiple scoring metrics, each of which relates to a different user performance indicator.
US08353690B2
A pair of dual chamber mixing pumps are combined which allow for a constant dispense rate profile using motor speed modulation. Each pump is divided into two chambers, the proximal chamber and the distal chamber. The chambers are defined in part by a piston having proximal and distal ends and recessed sections. The pump utilizes one common driving mechanism to axially rotate and laterally reciprocate the piston to provide continuous pumping of fluids with reduced pulsations. Each fluid enters through its own pump inlet and outlet. The pumps are operated 90° out of phase with respect to each other.
US08353688B2
A volumetric pump comprises at least one piston inside a cylindrical housing and means to cause a relative to-and-fro linear movement between the cylindrical housing and the piston in order to produce a stroke of the volumetric pump. This pump further comprises a bi-directional angular rotatable disc acting as a valve which connects alternately at least one inlet port and at least one outlet port to a least one pump chamber located inside the housing, and a driving mechanism arranged to dissociate at least partially the bi-directional angular movement of the rotatable disc with the to-and-fro linear movement of the housing. This driving mechanism is arranged such that the rotatable disc reaches an angular position at which it opens and/or closes the inlet and/or outlet ports when there is no relative to-and-fro linear movement between the cylindrical housing and the piston.
US08353678B2
A method of controlling a motor operating a pumping apparatus of a fluid-pumping application. The pumping apparatus includes a pump having an inlet to receive a fluid and an outlet to exhaust the fluid, and the motor coupled to the pump to operate the pump. The method includes the acts of controlling the motor to operate the pump and monitoring the operation of the pump. The monitoring act includes monitoring a power of the motor, and determining whether the monitored power indicates an undesired flow of fluid through the pump. The method further includes the act of controlling the motor to cease operation of the pump when the determination indicates an undesired flow of fluid through the pump and zero or more other conditions exist.
US08353672B2
A turbine blade damper arrangement in which a damper is positioned against the undersides of the platforms of adjacent turbine blades. In operation, the damper is centrifugally urged into engagement with the blade platforms to provide damping of relative movement between the blades. The damper and platform surfaces that it engages are of part-cylindrical configuration in order to minimize gas leakage paths between the damper and blade platforms.
US08353669B2
A vane for use in a gas turbine engine has a platform connected to an airfoil. There is a cooling passage for supplying cooling air to the platform. A cooling chamber supplies cooling air to a plurality of cooling slots at the platform. The cooling slots have a non-uniform cross section.
US08353668B2
Disclosed are examples of flow-directing elements, airfoil inserts, and assemblies thereof. A flow-directing element has an inner buttress with an airfoil extending outwardly therefrom. The airfoil includes a cavity that extends within the airfoil to an exit port disposed in the inner buttress. A shelf disposed about the buttress defines the exit port, and the shelf includes a discourager extending into the cavity. An airfoil insert has a tubular body, with an outlet at one end. A plate affixed to the body at the outlet partially blocks the outlet, and includes a tab extending away from the body and defining a portion of an outlet periphery. Upon assembly of the flow directing element and the insert, the tab interacts with the discourager to direct a coolant to the exit port while restricting leakage of the coolant back into the cavity, between the airfoil insert and the flow-directing element.
US08353661B2
An apparatus for transporting small vehicles within the bed of a truck which comprises a frame sized to be locatable within the bed of a truck, a platform slidably supported by the frame movable between a first position parallel to and proximate to the bed of the truck and a second position parallel to and vertically spaced above the first position and an actuator operable to move the platform between the first and second positions. The actuator may comprises a winch and the apparatus may include at least one catch for selectively engaging and supporting the platform at the second position.
US08353654B2
A metallic bolt fastener assembly that includes a threaded shank, a head and an end, the head and a portion of the shank encapsulated with a polymer composition. The polymer composition includes a polymer material such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber or thermal plastic materials. The polymer composition provides improved corrosion resistance and superior fluid sealing properties when used as a water tank-to-toilet bowl or other similar plumbing fixture connection system.
US08353651B2
A dry-to-the-touch moisture curing composition useful as a sealant and adhesive which includes a reactive modified methylene diisocyanate polymer component having isocyanate functionality of about 8% to about 18% by weight of the polymer.
US08353650B2
A bonding washer for making electrical connection between two metal pieces that are to be mechanically fastened together. The washer, to be interposed between the two metal pieces, is constructed so as to fasten to one of the pieces before the two pieces are joined. Teeth on the washer, positioned at right angles to the plane of the washer, are forced into each of the two metal pieces when the fastener is tightened, making electrical connection between the two metal pieces.
US08353648B2
Load-bearing ring (120, 220) have segments (121, 122, 221, 222) connected by studs (123) or frangible portions (228), where opposed tapered faces (125, 126, 225, 226) co-operate with complementary faces (114, 115) on hydraulic fasteners (110, 210) on a tapered face (342) on a washer (341), to enable controlled release of the load-bearing rings (110, 210) to enable de-tensioning of a bolt or stud tensioned by the hydraulic fasteners (110, 210, 310).
US08353647B2
A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
US08353646B2
A tool for machining borehole surfaces, includes a base body, a cutting device having at least one cutting die with at least one geometrically defined tool edge, and at least one guide surface for guiding the tool (1) inside the machined borehole. The at least one cutting die being tangentially fastened to the end face of the tool, and preferably embedded therein,The at least one cutting die is provided with a rounded cut for producing a support surface adjacent to the tool edge is produced, the support surface being arched with a radius that is smaller than the radius of the borehole to be machined, and the region of the support surface directly adjoining the tool edge resting against the borehole wall to be machined, and the end region of the support surface, as viewed in the peripheral direction of the tool, which is situated at a distance from the tool edge being situated at a distance from the wall of the borehole.
US08353641B2
Disclosed herein are systems for removing particulate matter from a fluid, comprising a particle functionalized by attachment of at least one activating group or amine functional group, wherein the modified particle complexes with the particulate matter within the fluid to form a removable complex therein. The particulate matter has preferably been contacted, complexed or reacted with a tethering agent. The system is particularly advantageous to removing particulate matter from a tailing solution.
US08353640B2
An impact absorption panel is adapted for playground use and comprises a panel section and a plurality of projections. The panel section is defined by a top surface and a bottom surface. The plurality of projections extend from the bottom surface of the panel section. The plurality of projections have a first stage and a second stage. The first stage is configured to collapse initially when subjected to an impact load. The second stage is configured to provide greater resistance to the impact load than the first stage. The panel section is configured to provide greater resistance to the impact load than the first and second stages. The first stage can also be distinguished from the second stage by virtue of having a comparatively smaller volume.
US08353620B2
A hand-held kitchen appliance, in particular a stick blender, comprising a housing with at least one first housing shell, a second housing shell and a fixing element for connecting the two housing shells. According to the invention, the fixing element comprises a tensioning element, which engages with the first housing shell at least at two separate fixing points, pressing the first housing shell against the second housing shell at said two points. The kitchen appliance and the method for producing the same are characterized by a particularly simple construction and produce an excellent seal for the housing despite the use of a reduced number of screw connections.
US08353619B2
This invention relates to systems and methods for applying acoustic energy to a sample. According to one aspect of the invention, a system comprises a housing, a chamber for receiving the sample, an acoustic energy source for providing a focused acoustic field to the sample according to a treatment protocol, a processor for determining the treatment protocol, a sensor for detecting information about the sample, and a user interface for communicating with a user.
US08353614B2
A backlight unit includes a light guide plate and a plurality of light sources. A side of the light guide plate is provided with an optical microstructure including a plurality of convex lens members aligned along the side. The height-to-pitch ratios of the convex lens members in the central region of the optical microstructure are different from those of the convex lens members in the side regions of the optical microstructure. For example, the height-to-pitch ratios of the convex lens members in the central region of the optical microstructure are larger than the height-to-pitch ratios of the convex lens members in the side regions of the optical microstructure. The light sources may be light emitting diodes (LED) directed toward the optical microstructure.
US08353612B2
An optical device, in particular for a motor vehicle, such as a lighting or signaling device, this device comprising at least one light guide which is designed to guide at least part of the light which is emitted by a source of light, the light guide comprising at least one output surface and at least one main reflection surface, which is designed to reflect towards the output surface light which is propagated in the guide, the light guide comprising a portion for coupling with the source of light, this coupling portion having a transverse axis (Y), wherein the coupling portion is arranged such that the light which is emitted from this coupling portion is propagated in the light guide, around the transverse axis, according to a total angular opening, measured around this transverse axis, which is strictly less than 360°, and in particular is less than 320° or 300°.
US08353604B2
An illuminated cup holder assembly for a vehicle includes at least one side wall and a base wall together defining a cup holder recess. The base wall has a light transmissive portion. An illumination source is secured to an underside of the base wall for illuminating the cup holder recess through the light transmissive portion of the base wall.
US08353601B2
The backlight unit may include a plurality of optical assemblies, which each include a light emitting module having a substrate, a plurality of light emitting devices on a top surface of the substrate, and a connector provided on a bottom surface of the substrate and electrically connected to a power supply unit. The optical assembly may also include a light guide plate including a first part to receive the light and a second part to output the light through a top surface. The optical assembly may also include a side cover that may fix the light emitting module and a portion of the first part. The side cover may have a plurality of connector holes.
US08353599B2
A projection system includes: a first image forming unit which releases the first image light; a second image forming unit which releases the second image light; a polarization combining system which combines the first image light and the second image light; a projection unit which projects the first image light and second image light combined; a pixel shift control unit which controls a pixel shift unit; a display timing control unit which controls display timing; and an image display control unit having a function which controls the pixel shift control unit and a function which controls the display timing control unit. The image display control unit performs the pixel shifting control when the image is a still image, and performs at least display timing control out of the pixel shifting control and the display timing control when the image is a dynamic image.
US08353598B2
Display systems and methods for mobile devices and mobile devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a display system for a mobile device is provided. The mobile device is handheld and includes a primary display screen. The display system includes an auxiliary screen and a connecting device coupled to the auxiliary screen and attachable to the mobile device. An image from the mobile device is producible on the auxiliary screen. The display system is removable from the mobile device.
US08353596B2
Among other items, an illumination device (110) is [provided] for an observation device (100) having one, two or more observation beam paths, each with at least one observation beam bundle, in particular for an operating microscope, having at least one light source (112) for producing at least one illumination beam path with at least one illumination beam bundle (121, 122, 123) for illuminating an object to be observed, in particular, an eye to be observed, in addition having at least one illumination optics unit (11)*, which is constructed according to the Köhler principle of illumination, as well as an objective element (119), wherein the at least one illumination beam path or the at least one illumination beam bundle (121, 122, 123) runs coaxially to an observation beam path or observation beam bundle. In order to produce an optimal solution to the problem of practical requirements relative to homogeneity of the red reflex with a simultaneous good contrasting of the lens pieces or membranes in the lens capsule, it is provided that an intermediate image (125) of the light source (112) lies in the front focal point of the objective element (119), viewed in the direction of the light, or that an intermediate image (125a) of the light source (112) lies at a distance from the front focal point of the objective element (119) corresponding to a maximum of 50% of the focal length of the objective element (119), viewed in the direction of the light. *sic: (111)?—Trans. Note.
US08353595B2
A hand camera for photographing an eye fundus is provided. The camera consists of a tube (3c), a camera housing (3a, 3b), which camera housing is attached to one end (3d) of the tube in a light-tight way, a camera device (4) that is able to record images by means of a two-dimensional optical sensor or a photographical film and that is accommodated in the camera housing (3a, 3b), a telephoto lens (5) that is arranged in the beam path of the light that is reflected from the eye fundus, which is accommodated in the camera housing (3a, 3b), a wide-angle lens (2), which is arranged in the beam path of the light that is reflected from the eye fundus at the other end (3e) of the tube (3c), and a light supplying device (1) consisting of a homogeneous trans-luminescent material, wherein the light supplying device (1) is arranged with respect to the tube (3c) in such a way that for a sufficient approach of the other end (3e) of the tube (3c) to the eye to be examined the light supplying device touches the sclera of the eye, provided that the center of the wide-angle lens is aligned with the center of the pupil.
US08353594B2
Improved eyewear is disclosed. The eyewear comprises a frame member and a lens. The eyewear also includes circuitry within the frame member for enhancing the use of the eyewear. A system and method in accordance with the present invention is directed to a variety of ways to enhance the use of eyeglasses. They are: (1) media focals, that is, utilizing the eyewear for its intended purpose and enhancing that use by using imaging techniques to improve the vision of the user; (2) telecommunications enhancements that allow the eyeglasses to be integrated with telecommunication devices such as cell phones or the like; and (3) entertainment enhancements that allow the eyewear to be integrated with devices such as MP3 players, radios, or the like.
US08353591B2
A printer using ink jet printing technology to print one or more colors on a sheet for use in a box is described. The printer has a feeder, a transport mechanism for moving the sheet the print head, and a stacker to receive the printed sheet. Differential air pressure is applied by a suction box disposed in proximity to a conveyer belt for transporting the sheet. The suction box may sized so that the sheet may be oriented with a long dimension in the direction of feeding. Where multiple print heads are used, the print heads overlap in the direction transverse to the motion of the sheet so that an image larger than a print head may be produced. Two printing mechanisms disposed opposite each other may be used to print two sides of a sheet.
US08353572B2
An ink supply device includes a cartridge mounting portion to which an ink cartridge is configured to be mounted by being inserted thereinto in an insertion direction, a first determiner configured to determine a first characteristic of the ink cartridge, and a second determiner configured to determine a second characteristic of the ink cartridge.
US08353567B1
In one embodiment, a drive waveform generator to control ejection of liquid from a set of ejection elements in single-pass printing. A first waveform source defines a first aspect of a drive waveform for the set of ejection elements and for other ejection elements. A second waveform source defines a second aspect of the drive waveform for the set of ejection elements but not for the other ejection elements. A circuit uses the first waveform source and the second waveform source to generate the drive waveform having the first and second aspects.
US08353555B2
A vehicle sliding door mechanism is arranged to move a door from a door opening provided in a vehicle side body structure from a closed position to an open position. The sliding door mechanism comprises an upper slide rail and a lower slide rail fixed to the vehicle side body structure. An upper slider is associated with the upper rail and is movable along the upper rail, and a lower slider is associated with the lower rail and is movable along the lower rail. An upper link assembly operatively connected to the vehicle door and the upper slider, and a lower link assembly is operatively connected to the vehicle door and the lower slider. At least one link assembly of the upper link assembly and lower link assembly is configured to control a moment of force about a pivot axis while moving the vehicle door between the closed position and the open position. The moment of force is one of an opening moment and a closing moment and is dependent on a position of the vehicle door relative to the vehicle side body structure. The at least one link assembly is configured such that the moment of force is substantially zero between when the vehicle door moves between the closed position and the open position.
US08353554B2
A vehicle provided with a coachwork; an interior compartment surrounded by the coachwork and frontally delimited by a windscreen surrounded by an U-shaped molding; and a detachable convertible top, which can be connected to the coachwork in order to close the interior compartment on the top and comprises, in turn, a covering cloth and a frame which is mechanically connectable to the coachwork and supports the covering cloth; the frame comprises a rear cross member, which can be coupled to a rear portion of the coachwork arranged immediately behind the interior compartment; and an arch, which is hinged to the rear cross member in order to rotate around a first axis, can be frontally coupled to the molding of the windscreen, and determines the locking of the rear cross member to the rear portion of the coachwork due to its rotation around the first axis.
US08353549B2
An opening and closing mechanism for a lid of a storage receptacle provided on a vehicle comprises a push button, a button pin and a lid linkage. The push button includes a first slider having an inclined face at a rear end thereof. The button pin includes a second slider having a first inclined face cooperating with the inclined face of the first slider. The first inclined face is spaced from a rear end of the second slider. The second slider is biased to contact the first slider. The lid linkage has a first end selectively engaged by the rear end of the second slider and a second end for selectively locking the lid in a closed state. The lid linkage is biased toward the second slider. Engagement of the push button with the button pin moves the second slider, which, in turn, allows the lid linkage to move toward the second slider to unlock the storage receptacle lid.
US08353541B2
The invention relates to a lock mechanism for a casement window having a keeper adapted to be attached to a sash, a lockbar adapted to be attached to a frame for engaging with the keeper to lock the casement window, and an actuator for actuating the lockbar to engage with the keeper. The actuator includes a fork having a V shaped groove, the V shaped groove includes a first leg and a second leg, and the actuator includes a switch having a channel for placement of a drive pin. The switch is rotatably mounted at a juncture of the first and second legs so that the channel generally aligns with either the first leg or the second leg for facilitating alignment of the drive pin within the V shaped groove.
US08353538B2
A male-female connection device, wherein the male connection device includes a sleeve and a slide that is adapted to occupy, relative to the sleeve, a position in which the slide is advanced in the sleeve, the device also including a tubular film folded back on itself and pressed between the slide and the sleeve. The female connection device includes a sleeve and a slide that is adapted to occupy, relative to the sleeve, a position in which the slide is set back in the sleeve, the device also including a tubular film folded back on itself and pressed between the slide and the sleeve. The male and female connection devices can be engaged within each other.
US08353530B2
Inflatable curtain airbags can be used to mitigate the likelihood of an occupant being ejected from a vehicle through a side window. Inflatable curtain airbags are typically tethered to a vehicle structure on a car-forward side, but may not be tethered to a vehicle structure on their car-rearward side. Increased friction between the car-rearward side of the airbag and an adjacent vehicle structure can be used to help the airbag say in place, and thereby decrease the likelihood of an occupant passing the airbag and being ejected from the vehicle.
US08353527B2
In an airbag device of the present invention, in an inner portion in a car width direction of at least one of adjacent two seats in a vehicle, a central airbag (4) is housed which is connected to a side face (200) of a seat frame (20) of the seat through a predetermined connecting member. On an outer face inside in the car width direction of the central airbag (4), a plurality of tethers (41), . . . are provided. This central airbag (4) counteracts a force from inside in the car width direction with tensions of the tethers (41), . . . and counteracts a force from outside in the car width direction with a force received from the side face (200) of the seat frame in inflation and extension.
US08353517B2
Among other things, enabling late bets in a game of Baccarat includes accepting a first bet from one or more participants. Two cards are dealt to each of a player position and a bank position. A player position score and a bank position score are determined based on the two cards dealt to each of the player position and the two cards dealt to the bank position. Based on the determined scores for the player position and the bank position, a determination is made on whether to deal a third card to at least one of the player position and the bank position.
US08353509B2
A stacker device includes a conveying belt, a longitudinal receiving guide, a paper sheet discharge detecting part, a first detecting part having a rod body, a second detecting part, and a control part for controlling the guide drive mechanism and the belt drive mechanism. The control part is formed so as to control both the mechanisms so that after the predetermined time T, which is required for the paper sheet to be stacked on the stacking surface after the paper sheet discharge detecting part detects the rear edge of the paper sheet having been conveyed to the discharging roller, passes and until the first detecting part detects the paper sheet, the longitudinal receiving guide and the conveying belt move to the upstream side of the conveyance direction at the same time, and after that, until the first detecting part does not detect the paper sheet, the longitudinal receiving guide and the conveying belt move to the downstream side of the conveyance direction at the same time. Additionally, the control part is formed so as to control the belt drive mechanism so that, when the second detecting part detects the non-standing position of the paper sheet, only the conveying belt moves to the downstream side of the conveyance direction by the predetermined distance.
US08353507B2
Occurrence of improper sheet-feeding of sheets is reduced. A sheet stacking section is lifted by an amount that is larger when a sheet-feed retry is performed than when an ordinary lifting operation is performed.
US08353503B2
An edge alignment control apparatus for correcting vertical alignment of sheet members is disclosed to include two base units each having multiple first power drives controllable to reciprocate a respective horizontal reciprocating member, and adjustment units arranged between the base units, each adjustment unit having two holder blocks connected to the horizontal reciprocating members of the base units at one same elevation and movable by the respective horizontal reciprocating members horizontally, sheet-transfer rollers pivotally connected between the holder blocks, a bearing board connected between the holder blocks for receiving a sheet member from the sheet-transfer rollers and a suction hood suspending above the bearing board and defining with the bearing board a passage for the passing of a sheet member and controllable to suck up a sheet member from the bearing board for allowing adjustment of the position of the sheet member horizontally subject to the operation of the first power drive.
US08353492B2
An equipment enclosure for housing electronic components includes a front assembly having a front frame, the front assembly defining a front of the enclosure, and a rear assembly having a rear frame. The enclosure further includes at least two side brace members, each side brace member having a first end and a second, opposite end. A first connector is configured to releasably connect the first end of one of the side brace members to the front frame. A second connector is configured to releasably connect the second end of the one of the side brace members to the rear frame. Other embodiments and methods are further disclosed.
US08353491B2
A coupling for attaching a hand held electronic device to a soft object includes a first connector for removable attaching the coupling to the hand held electronic device, and an opposite second connector for removably attaching the coupling to the soft object. In an embodiment the first connector is rotatable with respect to the second connector, so that once attached the hand held electronic device can be rotated to a desired angular position. In another embodiment, the hand held electronic device has a removable cover, and the coupling is attached to the removable cover.
US08353486B2
A sway brace fitting clamp is used for lateral bracing of sprinkler or other types of pipe (designated the service pipe) to a structure, to prevent movement of the service pipe perpendicular to the axis of a sway brace relative to the structure to which it is attached. The sway brace fitting clamp includes a body which fits around the service pipe, and a pair of hooks that are coupled to the body, for hooking the sway brace. The nuts may be tightened to pull the sway brace into contact with the service pipe, or otherwise firmly clamping the sway brace and the service pipe together.
US08353483B2
An aircraft wing comprises a leading-edge slat, the slat including a main body portion and a slat extension arranged at a spanwise end of the main body portion. The cross-sectional area of the slat extension is less than the cross-sectional area of the main body portion. The slat extension may therefore provide some of the aerodynamic benefits of the slat, while enabling the volume of the leading-edge of the wing on which the slat is mounted, to be relatively large. The chord and thickness to chord ratio of the slat extension may be less than the equivalent dimensions on the slat.
US08353477B2
A device and method for increasing comfort in an aircraft. The device and method utilizes a surface arranged between a ceiling paneling of a cabin of the aircraft and a passenger. The surface is arranged to face the passenger and is positionable so that a distance between the surface and the passenger is changeable. The device is structured and arranged to at least one of affect a thermal comfort of the passenger and supply air to the passenger via the surface.
US08353475B2
A roll recording material transport device includes a driving side roll holder, a driven side roll holder, a driving side spindle, a driven side spindle, a spindle driving source, a driving side support mechanism, a driven side support mechanism, a transport roller, and an assist executing section. The assist executing section executes assist control in which a rotating force in the direction of transporting the roll of recording material is applied by the spindle driving source through the driving side spindle and the driving side roll holder in an engaged state to the roll portion. The frictional force between the driving side spindle and the driving side roll holder is set smaller than the frictional force between the driven side spindle and the driven side support mechanism.
US08353469B2
A nozzle for a powder spray gun optionally includes an internal filter that allows air to be added to the powder flow within the nozzle shell. The nozzle may optionally include an off-axis outlet slot relative to a main flow axis of the powder into the nozzle shell so that powder encounters an obstruction before exiting through the outlet slot.
US08353467B2
A fluid spraying gun of the present invention includes: a tube-shape guide, on which a brush extending forward is implanted; a nozzle, which is formed of a flexible pipe member with a front end thereof as a free end, and sprays one portion of gas, which is supplied from the flow separation portion and passes through the nozzle, toward the brush from the front end thereof, while the nozzle undergoes the gyrating motion guided by the tube-shape guide; an inner nozzle, which sprays gas which has passed through a flow rate adjustment portion from a tip portion thereof; and a liquid distribution pipe, which penetrates the tube-shape guide, links an inside of the tube-shape guide with a liquid supply source, has an intermediate portion into which the inner nozzle is inserted in a state where the inner nozzle is directed toward the tube-shape guide, and draws up liquid from the liquid supply source by a negative pressure arising from spraying of gas by the inner nozzle to cause spraying of liquid on the inside of the tube-shape guide. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a fluid spraying gun in which a liquid with an adequate flow rate can be mixed with a gas, converted into minute drops and sprayed.
US08353463B2
A method controls an air handler that generates heated air from hot water generated by a water heater. The method includes generating a signal in the presence or absence of an indicia of water flow associated with the water heater; initiating operation of a pump associated with the air handler when the signal indicates that water flow associated with the water heater is at least at a selected level to supply hot water to the air handler sufficient to generate heated air; and/or terminating operation of the pump and/or a blower/fan associated with the air handler when the presence or absence signal indicates that the water flow associated with the water heater is less than the selected level.
US08353460B2
An object is to provide a reset signal generation circuit which has a simple circuit configuration without hysteresis characteristics so as not to occupy a larger area, and is resistant to noise and can surely generate a power-on reset signal; and to provide a semiconductor device including the reset signal generation circuit. The reset signal generation circuit includes a first buffer circuit, a low pass filter, a resistor, and a second buffer circuit. An output terminal of the first buffer circuit is electrically connected to an input terminal of the low pass filter. An output terminal of the low pass filter is electrically connected to one terminal of the resistor and an input terminal of the second buffer circuit. A constant potential is supplied to the other terminal of the resistor.
US08353456B2
Inventory control systems for monitoring the removal and replacement of objects are described. An exemplary system includes at least one storage drawer, each storage drawer includes at least one storage location for storing objects, and configured to move in a first direction allowing increasing access to storage locations of the drawer, and a second direction allowing decreasing access to storage locations of the drawer. An image sensing device is provided to form at least one first image of the storage locations when a respective storage drawer moves in the second direction. The system includes a data processor configured to receive information representing images of the storage locations generated by the image sensing device, and determine an inventory condition of the objects stored in the respective storage drawer according to the at least one first image.
US08353439B2
Introducers for introducing a surgical circular stapler into a patient. Various embodiments comprise a hollow flexible sheath that has a distal end and an open proximal end that is sized to receive a stapling head portion of the circular stapler therein. A radially-openable barrel member is attached to a distal end of the hollow flexible sheath to define an opening for receiving the stapling head therein. A rigid cap member is hingably attached to the radially-openable barrel member and is movable between a closed position wherein the rigid cap member covers a distal end of the opening in the barrel member and open position wherein the rigid cap member is movable to a position wherein the distal end of the opening is exposed. A releasable latch member is provided to engage and release opposed ends of the radially-openable barrel member.
US08353438B2
Introducers for introducing a surgical circular stapler into a patient. Various embodiments comprise a hollow flexible sheath that has a distal end and an open proximal end that is sized to receive a stapling head portion of the circular stapler therein. A rigid cap assembly may be attached to the distal end of the hollow flexible sheath The rigid cap assembly may be configured to selectively move between a closed position wherein a distal face of the stapling head is covered and an open position wherein the distal face of the stapling head is exposed. A portion of the rigid cap assembly has a shape that substantially matches a perimetrical shape of a portion of the stapling head to enable the rigid cap assembly to pass proximally over the stapling head when the introducer is withdrawn from the patient.
US08353432B2
An accessory support device for a stroller apparatus comprises a coupling fixture securely mounted on a handle of a stroller and including a plurality of latching openings, a rotary socket pivotally assembled with the coupling fixture and including a detent and a connecting portion, and an accessory support frame detachably fastened with the connecting portion of the rotary socket. The accessory support frame is operable to rotate with the rotary socket relative to the coupling fixture, and the detent is movable to engage with any one of the latching openings for locking the accessory support frame at different angular positions relative to the coupling fixture.
US08353429B2
A dispensing apparatus includes a support frame, a receiving tube, a dispenser, a slide rail, a screw rod, a driving assembly, and a push piston. The receiving tube is fixed to the support frame. The receiving tube defines a tube cavity for receiving glue materials, and an output tube communicating with the receiving tube. The dispenser is connected to the receiving tube. A slide rail is fixed on the support frame, and a sliding member is slidably connected to the slide rail. A screw rod engages with the sliding member. A driving assembly drives a screw rod to move. A push piston is fixed on the sliding member, and is partially received in the receiving tube for pushing glue materials to flow to the dispenser.
US08353428B2
A package including a fitment for holding a liquid therein to dispense the liquid and the fitment itself. The fitment is a metering dispensing valve arranged to be secured to a flexible bag for selectively dispensing a metered quantity of the liquid therefrom. It includes a piercing member for piercing through the bag to provide access to the interior of the bag and a compressible bulb having a reservoir in it. The dispensing valve also includes an inlet valve to the reservoir and an outlet valve from the reservoir. The bulb is arranged to be compressed and then released to enable a metered amount of the liquid to be drawn into a reservoir. The bulb can then be compressed again to dispense the metered amount of liquid from the reservoir through the outlet valve to the outlet.
US08353423B2
A cookware system is provided having a container, particularly a cooking vessel, at least one downwardly directed receiver, and a non-coupling handle having a contact member at its end sized to the receiver, which combination provides increased safety and utility. By virtue of the downwardly directed receiver and the upwardly directed contact member, the handle of the cookware system contacts and drives the cooking vessel only during and for so long as the operator, the cook, provides upward force to the handle to temporarily engage the cooking vessel. Upon removal of the upward force from the operator, the handle disengages from the receiver, preventing the potential that a person, whether the operator, a child or another, could contact the handle and cause a spill or burn.
US08353422B2
Fuel delivery modules are already known having a tank flange and having an accumulator pot which is connected to the tank flange by means of at least one guide rod and which is mounted so as to be axially movable along the guide rod, where the guide rod is pressed with one end into a receptacle of the tank flange. It is disadvantageous that the receptacle is expanded over the entire longitudinal extent as the guide rod is pressed in. As a result of tolerance fluctuations in production, excessively high pressures can occur in the receptacle here, which pressures can cause cracks in the receptacle. This leads to rejects and therefore to high production costs. In the fuel delivery module according to the invention, damage to the receptacle during assembly is prevented. According to the invention, it is provided that that end of the guide rod which faces toward the tank flange has a bead, which interacts in a retentive manner with the receptacle, and a constriction situated behind the bead in a direction facing away from the tank flange.
US08353421B2
A container includes a body portion having a side wall and a base wall, a first lid, and a second lid. The first lid is removably mounted to the side wall and the body portion and the first lid forms a first compartment. The second lids is connected to the body portion along a hinge and forms at least a part of the base of the container. The body portion and the second lid form a second compartment which is located on the opposite side of the base wall to the first compartment.
US08353420B1
A horizontal hinged closure with a large diameter track ring attached directly to the rear of a female threaded head. The threaded female head is designed to removably attach to a male threaded structure. A bearing ring with cam followers that engage the track ring to allow the threaded head to be rotated relative to the male threaded structure to attach and remove the threaded head there from. The bearing ring is attached to a hinge arm that allows the removed threaded head to be moved away from the male threaded structure and then rotated about a vertical axis. Direct attachment of the large diameter track ring to the rear of the threaded head moves the center of gravity forward, resulting in the threaded head remaining essentially vertical when it is removed from the male threaded structure and thereby making it easier to reattach to the male threaded structure.
US08353418B2
A pressure relief cap engageable with a container includes a vent passage between an interior of the cap and an exterior of the cap. A two-way pressure relief valve is located along the vent passage and is configured to open automatically in response to a positive net interior pressure exceeding a first threshold pressure and in response to a negative net interior pressure exceeding a second threshold pressure. A manual actuator is actuable from the exterior of the cap to open the two-way pressure relief valve. A plug is positioned along the vent passage in series with the two-way pressure relief valve, movable between a first position in which the vent passage is open between the two-way pressure relief valve and the exterior of the cap and a second position in which the plug closes the vent passage between the two-way pressure relief valve and the exterior of the cap.
US08353414B2
A stopper for a container neck having a skirt centered on an axis, and an internal snapping device. The snapping device fastens the stopper to the neck by engaging with an edge of the neck and an external disengagement tab projecting outwards from the skirt and running over a peripheral portion of the skirt. The skirt includes an external collar projecting outwards and running over a peripheral portion of the skirt distinct from the portion associated with the tab, by being separated from the portion associated with the tab at either end around the periphery of the skirt. At least a portion of the collar that runs through greater than 180° about the axis includes, in cross-section relative to the axis, a circular outside profile centered on the axis and having a radius substantially equal to the maximum radial distance between the axis and the outside profile of the tab.
US08353407B2
A method of making a screen with an apparatus, the screen including a plurality of wires arranged in a patterned configuration, the apparatus including an extruder and a mold, the method including (a) longitudinally aligning the plurality of wires in the apparatus in a first direction only and arranging the wires in the patterned configuration, (b) applying a first bead of molten material on the wires via the extruder, and (c) directly molding the first bead of molten material into a support member for the screen by closing the mold about the bead, wherein the support member at least partially encases at least one of the wires.
US08353389B2
A vehicle wheel assembly includes a fixed body member, a rotatably mounted wheel and a braking assembly that is operated by a solenoid or motor powered by a support power supply. The wheel assembly acts as a power generator to recharge the support power supply, one of the body member and the wheel being provided with a stator and the other being provided with a plurality of permanent magnets which are of alternating polarity.
US08353375B2
A direct drive traction vehicle motor system for a wheeled vehicle includes an electric motor rotor for mechanically attachment to a vehicle wheel for rotational movement with the vehicle wheel. An attachment structure is concentrically mounting the rotor to the vehicle wheel. An electric motor stator is mounted in a concentric relationship with the rotor. A mechanical structure is coupled between the vehicle and the stator for inhibiting rotation of the stator. An electric drive circuit is electrically coupled to the motor stator for exciting the motor stator to impart a rotational force on the vehicle wheel through the rotor.
US08353374B2
A battery module includes: a plurality of battery cells; a casing in which the plurality of battery cells are housed; a plurality of conductive members used to electrically connect the plurality of battery cells; a first chamber, formed in the casing, in which the plurality of battery cells are disposed; and a second chamber, formed in the casing and isolated from the first chamber, into which emitted matter from the battery cells is released, wherein: the conductive members and the battery cells are connected together within the second chamber.
US08353372B2
A tracked vehicle, particularly a piste grooming vehicle, comprising a chassis frame and at least one sprocket for a track is characterized in that the sprocket has limited movement between a working position—in which the sprocket protrudes beyond the chassis frame—and a transit position in which the sprocket is located at least partially, preferably totally, within the width of the chassis frame.
US08353368B2
The present invention relates to drilling apparatus comprising a drill-bit (1) capable of rotary and high frequency oscillatory loading; and control means for controlling applied rotational and/or oscillatory loading of the drill-bit, the control means having adjustment means for varying the applied rotational and/or oscillatory loading, said adjustment means being responsive to conditions of the material through which the drill is passing. The control means is in use provided on the apparatus in a downhole location and includes sensors for taking downhole measurements of material characteristics, whereby the apparatus is operable downhole under closed loop real-time control. The apparatus can determine appropriate loading parameters for the drill-bit in order to achieve and maintain resonance between the drill-bit and the drilled material in contact therewith.
US08353365B2
A drilling system performs underground boring using a drill rig and a boring tool which is configured for moving through the ground under control of the drill rig to form an underground bore. A monitoring arrangement, forming part of the system, includes a detection arrangement at the drill rig for monitoring at least one operational parameter to produce a data signal relating to at least one of a utility to be installed in the underground bore, the drill rig and the boring tool. A portable device forms another part of the system for receiving the data signal relating to the operational parameter for use by the portable device. A communication arrangement, for example using telemetry, transfers the data signal from the drill rig to the portable device. The operational parameter may be monitored for the purpose of preventing equipment failure.
US08353354B2
A crawler system for an earth boring system comprises at least two expandable tools along a common axis and spaced apart from each other along the common axis by a piston cylinder device. The at least two expandable tools comprise a mandrel comprising a tubular body and an outer diameter, a plurality of blades, and a slidable sleeve capable of manipulating the plurality of blades into collapsed and expanded positions. The plurality of blades of one of the at least two expandable tools expand to an expanded position and engage a borehole wall. The piston cylinder device anchors against the engagement between the borehole wall and one of the at least two expandable tools to axially translate the other of the at least two expandable tools.
US08353350B2
Subsea test apparatus comprises: a connector for mating with a corresponding connector of subsea apparatus to provide at least one of electrical, optical, and fluid connection between the test apparatus and the subsea apparatus; measuring means connected to the test apparatus's connector and operable underwater in a measurement mode; a power supply arranged to power the measuring means; and disconnection means for disconnecting the test apparatus's connector from a mated subsea apparatus's connector. The measuring means, in said measurement mode, is arranged to perform at least one measurement, via the mated connectors, on connected subsea apparatus, and the test apparatus further comprises indicating means operable underwater and arranged to provide an indication of a result of the or each measurement.
US08353331B2
A heat dissipation apparatus with coarse surface capable of intensifying heat transfer comprises a base plate, a plurality of plate members, a flow passage, and a heat transfer reinforced unit; the plate members each extend upright from the base plate in parallel; the flow passage is formed between any two adjacent plate members; the heat transfer reinforced unit is provided at the first surface and/or the second surface and further comprises at least a raised part being disposed slightly upright from the respective surface and spacing apart a distance from each other, and a plurality of fish-scale-like parts each being disposed on the respective surface next to the respective raised part, providing a recess toward said surface with an inclining angle to the surface and having an edge such that a sharp end is formed by every two adjacent fish-scale-like parts and disposed at an intersection of the respective edge of the two adjacent fish-scale-like parts, wherein the raised part and the fish-scale-like parts allow fluid near the surface creating eddy flows and secondary flows and breaking boundary layers of the fluid.
US08353328B2
A sand-forming apparatus (10) comprising a box (20), a blow tube assembly (50) and a bonnet (90). The box (20) has a cope (30) and a drag (40) which together define a cavity (21) having a shape corresponding to a desired sand-shape. The blow tube assembly (50) comprises a blowplate (55), and at least one tube (50). The bonnet (90) may be fixed to and movable with the blowplate (55). Relative movement between the cope (30), the blowplate (55) and/or the bonnet (90) converts the apparatus (10) between a sand-blowing state and a catalyst-introducing state.
US08353324B2
A pneumatic tire that can be manufactured according to the conventional method without requiring special tire manufacturing steps and without needing addition of material members and production steps, and having excellent rolling resistance and wet properties, and having conductivity is to be provided. A pneumatic tire 10 comprises a carcass 14, a rim strip 19, and a wing 24 in which one edge thereof is contacted with the carcass 14 and the other edge thereof is exposed to the surface of a ground contact edge region of a tread part 13, wherein a carcass ply 14 contacting the rim strip 19 and the wing 24 has a conductive ply 14X and a nonconductive ply 14Y on the circumference of the tire, and the conductive ply 14X and the rim strip and the wing form a continuous conductive path comprising a conductive rubber material, only the conductive path is used as a conducting path of the tire, and members other than the conducting path are selected and used from a conductive rubber material or a nonconductive rubber material.
US08353322B2
In a tank system, a venting line (6) connects the fuel tank to an activated carbon filter, and a recirculating line (10) opens into a filler head (3). In order to prevent the penetration of liquid fuel into the activated carbon filter, to permit the seal to be checked by applying a partial vacuum and to provide a filler head which can be manufactured inexpensively, an insertion body (22) is provided which forms a funnel (23) which is adjoined by a neck (24) which accommodates the fuel nozzle, which insertion body (22) has, in addition to the neck (24), two vertical blind holes (31, 32), open at the bottom, and a transverse duct (33) which connects the latter, wherein the first blind hole (31) is connected to the recirculating line (10), and a float (40), which clears or closes off the connection to the transverse duct (33), is guided in the second blind hole (32).
US08353313B2
A three-port control valve assembly comprising a valve body having two valve seats facing in a common direction and disposed along a central bore terminating in an exhaust port and communicating with a supply port and a common port. A pintle shaft connected to a solenoid actuator extends into the central bore. A first valve head mounted on the pintle shaft mates with the first valve seat to connect the supply port to the common port. While the solenoid is de-energized, supply pressure keeps the first valve closed. A second valve head mates with the second valve seat to connect the common port to the exhaust port. Opening of the first valve closes the second valve via supply oil pressure. When the first valve closes, the second valve is opened by a spring disposed between the second valve head and the exhaust port.
US08353311B2
An anti-flooding device (10) including a duct (12) for passage of a flow of liquid, and a limiter (14) inserted along the duct (12) for passage of liquid and defining a section for passage of the liquid that decreases progressively as the flowrate of liquid increases, with closing of the duct (12) once a given threshold flowrate has been reached. The limiter (14) has at least one male element (18) and at least one female element (20), which are mobile with respect to one another so that they slide into one another as the flowrate of liquid increases. Progressive insertion into one another of the male element (18) and the female element (20) defines the section of passage. The male element (18) and female element (20) are shaped with respect to one another so as to reduce the section of passage as the flowrate increases, with closing of the duct (12) for passage of liquid as soon as a given threshold flowrate is reached.
US08353298B2
A smoking article having a cylinder of smoking material and a filter system attached to the cylinder of smoking material. The filter system includes an upstream plug of filtering material, a downstream plug of filtering material, and a cavity between the upstream plug of filtering material and the downstream plug of filtering material. A flow restrictor is positioned within the cavity and has at least one orifice and a series of perforations provide ventilation to the smoking article.
US08353297B2
Methods of manipulating pulses of ultrasonic energy for use with an ophthalmic surgical device.
US08353295B2
A branching unit for delivering a respiratory gas of a subject is disclosed herein. The branching unit includes a first limb for delivering an expiratory gas during an expiratory phase and a second limb for delivering an inspiratory gas during an inspiratory phase. The branching unit also includes a third limb for delivering both the expiratory gas and the inspiratory gas and a common branching point for the first limb, the second limb and the third limb. The first limb, the second limb and the third limb include a volume for the respiratory gas and which volume includes both an active volume with the gas exchanging between the inspiratory phase and the expiratory phase and a dead volume for the respiratory gas with insufficient gas exchange from the inspiratory phase to the expiratory phase and the dead volume being less than 1 ml.
US08353294B2
A cushion for a respiratory mask assembly includes a breathing chamber forming portion and a face contacting portion formed in one piece of an elastomeric material, and a gusset portion including one or more folds. The breathing chamber forming portion includes a mask interior breathing chamber and the face contacting portion is structured to engage a patient's face. The gusset portion is structured to provide flexibility to the face contacting portion. The breathing chamber forming portion includes a front side of the mask and the face contacting portion includes a rear side of the mask. The breathing chamber forming portion, when provided to a mask frame, includes an exterior surface exposed at the front side of the mask.
US08353293B1
A CPAP vent diffuser adapted to effectively seal around a vent of a CPAP mask comprises a chamber of porous cloth that moderates air flow from the vent of CPAP machine by increasing in the chamber walls the area the air flow has to move through thus decreasing the speed of the air.
US08353289B2
A method and apparatus are disclosed for determining airflow through a PAP device while applying PAP therapy. The actual speed of a blower 6 is measured. The desired motor current IDES required for the actual speed to approach or maintain a desired speed is used, together with the actual speed RPM ACT, in a flow estimation algorithm to determine flow through the PAP device. The estimation algorithm consists of a two-dimensional look-up table, where the inputs are the desired motor current and actual motor speed, and the output is the flow through the PAP device.
US08353286B2
A solar water heater includes a number of elongate water heating units which can be interconnected in series. The solar water heater can be installed vertically or inclined to have maximum solar exposure. Each water heating unit can utilize inner and outer glass tubes, which may or may not be a twin glass tube, to collect and conserve solar thermal energy inside. An inner metal water container extends through an opening in the inner and outer glass tubes. Heat transfer elements can be inserted between the inner tube and the metal water container. The solar water heater can work on natural convection and city water pressure.
US08353278B2
A rotary stone cutting tool and method for making countertops and the like includes a shank shaped for detachable connection with a rotary drive. A cup-shaped cutting blade is mounted on the outer end of the shank, and has a frusto-conical sidewall and an outer marginal edge with axially protruding cutting teeth. A plurality of cutting pads are embedded in the sidewall and protrude radially outwardly therefrom. The blade is advanced through a stone slab with the sidewall oriented generally perpendicular to the face of the stone slab to cut an arcuate portion of an inside corner with reduced waste.
US08353277B2
A toy launcher that can house a substantially large amount (e.g., 40, 60, 100, 200, etc.) of projectiles along the length of a rotatable projectile feed assembly. During use, a user can cause rotatable projectile feed assembly to rotate about it own axis and can cause projectiles to advance from the rotatable projectile feed assembly to a projectile launch assembly. At the projectile launch assembly, projectiles interact with at least one accelerator launching the projectile out of the toy launcher. The accelerator can be at least one rotating body.
US08353271B2
An engine speed control system for a work vehicle is disclosed. Storage means (56) stores a predetermined engine speed. A manually operated input device (37, 38) issues an instruction to retrieve the engine speed from the storage means (56). Engine speed control means (50) executes a constant speed control, whereby the engine speed stored in the storage means (56) is set as a target speed on the basis of a first input operation made using the input device (37, 38). The engine speed control means (50) further executes a stored speed change control for allowing the setting of the engine speed stored in the storage means (56) to be changed based on a second, different input operation performed using the input device (37, 38).
US08353270B2
A system including, an internal combustion engine including a combustion chamber, a first injector to provide a first injection fluid to the combustion chamber, and a heated pressurization system to heat the first injection fluid in a pressure vessel to achieve a sufficient injection pressure. By heating the injection fluid in a pressure vessel, pressure in the vessel can be increased to a specified injection pressure.
US08353268B2
An oiling system for providing oil to a timing chain adjacent a cylinder head of an engine is provided. The oiling system includes a redirect feature, a vent window defined by the cylinder head, a rail feature, and a transfer feature. The redirect feature is configured to channel oil toward the vent window, the rail feature is configured to channel oil from the vent window to the transfer feature, and the transfer feature is configured to transfer oil to the timing chain. The oil is transferred from the transfer feature to the timing chain at substantially ambient pressure. The engine may be characterized by the absence of a nozzle configured to transfer oil onto the timing chain. Furthermore, the redirect feature, the rail feature, and the transfer feature may all be formed as integral, one-piece structures with the cylinder head.
US08353267B2
Disclosed is a piston for an engine having a stable behavior of a piston ring. The piston for the engine includes: an upper ring, a middle ring, and an oil ring, provided in an outer circumferential portion; and a ring-shaped groove formed between the upper ring, and the middle ring, wherein the ring-shaped groove has a deep portion which has a concave shape, a straight-line shaped first gap is formed between a liner of a cylinder, and an area from the ring-shaped groove to the middle ring, and the first gap is larger than a gap between the liner of the cylinder, and an area from a portion provided with the upper ring to the ring-shaped groove. In the disclosed piston, a blow-by gas, which is a mixed gas flowed into a crank case from a combustion chamber by passing through a gap between the cylinder and the piston, formed below the ring-shaped groove, is stabilized, thereby stabilizing the behavior of the upper ring and the middle ring. Also, the amount of oil scraped off toward the combustion chamber is reduced, and the oil can be smoothly scraped off toward the crank case, which reduces the consumption of oil remaining and evaporating on an inner wall of the cylinder.
US08353263B2
A valve timing adjuster includes a housing member, a vane rotor, and a seal plate. A first housing segment of the housing member receives the vane rotor therein. A second housing segment of the housing member faces with an opening of the first housing segment. The seal plate includes a base part and a resilient part. The base part is held by the first and second housing segments therebetween. The resilient part is in press-contact with the end surface of the vane rotor within a predetermined angular range. The resilient part, the second housing segment, and a camshaft define therebetween a pressure chamber. The resilient part has a pressurized oil introduction passage that provides communication between the pressure chamber and only one of advance and retard hydraulic chambers.
US08353251B2
An auxiliary table for a sewing machine includes a table body formed into a flat plate shape and including one or more rectangular portions, the table body having corners, an upper surface at an upper side in a direction of gravitational force and an underside at a lower side in the direction of gravitational force, a cloth-receiving member disposed on at least one corner of the table body so as to be located lower than the upper surface of the table body and configured to support the workpiece cloth when it is placed on the upper surface side of the table body and hanging downward from the table body, the cloth-receiving member having a receiving portion having an outer edge surrounding outer edges of the corners, and a supporting member supporting the cloth-receiving member so protrusion of the cloth-receiving member from an outer edge of the table body is changeable.
US08353249B2
A seed depositing device designed to facilitate the uniform distribution of seeds during planting applications. The device includes a tubular outer shell having an open end and at least one opening along its length. An inner core is concentrically located in the outer shell and has at least one row of dimples along the length of an outer surface of the inner core for holding seeds. The inner core fits tightly enough in the outer shell to disallow free movement of the inner core within the outer shell. Rotation structure is provided for manually rotating the inner core relative to the outer shell. The inner core is rotatable by the rotation structure to align the at least one row of dimples with the at least one opening and expose the at least one row of dimples through the at least one opening. When the inner core is rotated so the openings of the outer shell are aligned with a row of dimples of the inner core, seeds are manually loaded into the exposed row of dimples through the openings of the outer shell. Each row of dimples is successively loaded in like manner until all dimples are loaded with seeds. A reversal of these steps is used to deposit the seeds onto a predetermined area.
US08353248B2
In a track-guided vehicle wheel truck, a guide frame can be turned relative to a steering axle of a running wheel. A support shaft is adjustably provided on the guide frame. A receiving member is provided projecting toward the vehicle end side. A link lever capable of interlocking the turning of the guide frame and the steering of the running wheel, is provided along the vehicle front and rear direction. A center-side end part of the link lever is rotatably mounted to the receiving member. A vehicle end-side end part of the link lever is rotatably mounted to a connecting rod that enables the steering of the running wheel. A long hole extending in the vehicle front and rear direction, is provided in an intermediate part of the link lever. The long hole and the support shaft are rotatably engaged with each other at a given position.
US08353236B2
A perforating equipment (111) for continuous forms in movement comprises tree transversal perforating device (54, 56, 57) for executing transversal perforations on continuous forms (58) to be divided in three longitudinal sections and continuous forms to be divided in two longitudinal sections. Each perforating device includes a contrast member (61, 62, 79), a blade support mounting a blade (116a, 117a, 118a) for the three section form and a blade (116b, 117b, 118b) for the two section form, a blade servomechanism (73, 74, 85) and an activation group (104, 106, 107). The blade servomechanism rotates the blade support for a condition of interference of a blade in the position of perforation; and the activation group causes the contrast member to contrast a corresponding blade for the perforations of the forms to be divided into three sections, or the forms to be divided into two longitudinal sections.
US08353219B2
A dryer felt tension indicator apparatus is disclosed for indicating a value which is proportional to a tension applied between a frame and a stretcher roll for guiding a dryer felt. The value is proportional to a tension of the dryer felt. The apparatus includes a carriage for rotatably supporting the stretcher roll. A wheel is rotatably secured to the carriage and a tensioner having a first and a second extremity cooperates with and extends around the wheel such that the wheel is disposed between the first and the second extremity of the tensioner. A tension indicator has a first and a second end. The first end of the tension indicator is anchored to the frame. The second end of the tension indicator is secured to the first extremity of the tensioner such that in use of the apparatus, when the tension is applied to the tensioner between the wheel and the second extremity of the tensioner, the carriage and the stretcher roll rotatably supported thereon is moved relative to the frame for tensioning the dryer felt. The tension indicator indicates the value which is proportional to the tension of the dryer felt.
US08353217B2
This machine comprises a central body (1), un piston (3) compressing the liquid contained in a liner (2), and a peripheral bladder (18) capable of uniformly applying pressure to a tube (21) immediately surrounding this bladder. Pressure can be applied in a simple manner through a tensile and compression testing machine (22, 23). No end effect that could disturb the test is produced on the tube.
US08353216B2
A fast-fit device for fluidically connecting a pressure sensor to a water collecting tank of an electric household appliance including: a supporting body securable to a housing of the electric household appliance and carrying a first, blind tubular element, having a first open end, opposite to a second blind end; a second tubular element integrally obtained in one piece with a casing of the pressure sensor, which overhangingly extends therefrom for the entire length thereof and which displays external diameter and length smaller than the internal diameter and length of the first tubular element; a closing plug of the first end provided with a through hole which fluid-tightly receives in use the second tubular element; and first and second fastening means which are reciprocally complementary and integrally carried by the supporting body and the casing of the sensor, respectively.
US08353211B2
A sensor has a corpus comprising an insert opening through which a sensor element can be inserted in the corpus, and a cable opening for passing through a supply and/or signal line of the sensor element and a cover closing the insert opening. The cover comprises an interlock opening aligned with the cable opening. The supply and/or signal line comprises a bushing element which penetrates the cable opening of the corpus and the interlock opening of the cover.
US08353205B2
Provided is a measuring apparatus with AE sensors, which detects the same AE signals with respect to the same events that damage a geotechnical structure, regardless of ground conditions and formations in the geotechnical structure, thereby collecting reliable AE signals. Also, provided is(are) an installing method of the measuring apparatus with the AE sensor, and a set of the measuring apparatus with the AE sensor.
US08353203B2
A brake position sensor unit includes a unitary brake shaft that transmits braking torque to a article to be slowed, connects directly to a brake unit, connects to a resolver and has a plurality of planetary gears rotating thereabout to activate a sensor when the brake unit is set.
US08353200B2
An arrangement for detection of the sharpness of chopper knives that can be moved relative to a shear bar includes a sensor that detects the effective cutting forces directly or indirectly and an evaluation arrangement connected to the sensor. The evaluation arrangement integrates the measured values of the sensor over time in order to generate information concerning the sharpness of the chopper knives.
US08353199B1
The invention is a multiple degree-of-freedom test stand for unmanned air vehicles, and is particularly useful for small or micro unmanned air vehicles. The stand is gravity balanced using springs such that no weight of any part of the stand becomes a burden to the tested vehicle when it flies while constrained to the stand. A joint and a plurality of members are used to enable multiple degrees of freedom.
US08353189B2
An override mechanism is for an electronic door lock assembly that includes a handle, a retractor and an electronic clutch mechanism with a movable coupler and an actuator. The coupler operatively connects the handle with the retractor when the coupler is located in an engaged position and the actuator is operable to displace the coupler between a nonengaged position and the engaged position. The override mechanism includes a movable override member configured to displace the clutch coupler between the nonengaged and engaged positions. The override member also retains the clutch coupler at the engaged position when the override member is disposed at an unlock position and prevents displacement of the coupler during actuator operation when the override member is disposed at a lockout position. Further, a manual drive, preferably including a cylinder lock, is configured to displace the override member between the unlock and lockout positions.
US08353188B1
The childproof deadbolt includes a standard deadbolt with a thumb turn wherein a childproofing mechanism is integrated into the design of the thumb turn. The childproofing mechanism consists of at least one spring-loaded push button that when depressed engages an internal gear in rotational connection with the deadbolt. Absent depression of said push button the thumb turn is free to rotate independent of the internal gear and the deadbolt.
US08353186B2
The invention relates to a hoop lock having a lock body and a hoop which is movable relative to the lock body between an open position and a closed position. The lock body has a lock housing and a closing mechanism which is fastened in the lock housing and has a driver. The driver is selectively movable into an unlatched position or into a latched position. A latching device is furthermore provided in the lock body and acts between the driver of the locking mechanism, the hoop and the lock housing. The latching device latches the hoop to the lock housing when the hoop is in the closed position and the driver of the locking mechanism is in the latched position. At least a part of the latching device is movable together with the hoop between the open position and the closed position of the hoop.
US08353181B2
A heart shaped diamond possessing a hearts and arrows pattern characteristic comprising: six main crown facets symmetrically aligned relative to one another, with each of the six main crown facets having a straight edge in parallel alignment with a straight edge of another main crown facet disposed opposite thereto; six main pavilion facets aligned at a fixed given angle of approximately 60° to each other and having a symmetrical number of pavilion half facets such that the six main pavilion facets meet at a point corresponding to the symmetrical central of the diamond and a multiple number of crown star facets spaced apart from one another on the surface of the diamond. The pavilion half facets are arranged in pairs polished on the main pavilion facet with a first pavilion half facet in each pair lying at a first angle of preferably 26.25° relative to a second pavilion half facet in the same pair and with the second pavilion half facet in each pair cut at a second angle of preferably 33.75° relative to the first pavilion half facet in an adjacent pair with which it shares a common boundary.
US08353178B2
An ice making housing which is mounted in a refrigerator door and forms an ice making chamber including an ice making tray which has a rotational shaft to be rotatably accommodated in the ice making housing, and an ice generating unit to freeze supplied water; an ice separating unit which is mounted in the ice making housing and separates ice cubes from the ice making tray; an overflow preventing member which is rotatably coupled to the ice making housing along a lengthwise direction of the ice making tray and prevents overflow of water accommodated in the ice making tray; and a driving unit which is provided in the ice making tray and the overflow preventing member and allows the overflow preventing member to reciprocate between an ice separating position separating ice cubes from the ice generating unit and a cover position covering the ice generating unit.
US08353171B2
A refrigerating appliance is provided that includes an inner compartment for storing refrigerated or frozen goods, a cold generator, a refrigerating appliance control system for operating the cold generator, a mains connection for supplying the cold generator and the refrigerating appliance control system with an electrical voltage, and an ice-making machine arranged in the inner compartment. The ice-making machine includes its own control system for its own operation, which controls all functions of the ice-making machine independently of the refrigerating appliance control system. A connection is also provided from the ice-making machine and the ice-making machine control system to the mains connection of the refrigerating appliance.
US08353167B2
A portable, solar assisted, temperature controlled container comprises: a body with a cavity; a lid sealable thereon; a detachable solar panel producing electric power; a thermoelectric cooling unit; an interior heat sink secured in the cavity proximate to an interior side of the thermoelectric cooling unit with an interior fan to direct cavity air thereon; an exterior heat sink secured proximate to an exterior-facing side of the thermoelectric cooling unit with an exterior fan to direct exterior air thereon. The thermoelectric cooling unit transports heat to maintain a thermostat-controlled temperature in the cavity. The interior and exterior fans and the interior and exterior heat sinks increase efficiency of the heat transport. One or more wheels rotatably attached to the body are coupled to a faraday generator to generate electrical power to replace/supplement the solar power. A rechargeable battery may also replace/supplement solar power during periods of inadequate solar power generation.
US08353166B2
A mounting system for locating a combustor and a fuel manifold of a gas turbine engine within a gas generator casing thereof is described. The mounting system comprises at least three support pin assemblies which extend radially inwardly from the gas generator casing. The support pin assemblies support both the fuel manifold and at least an upstream end of the combustor and maintaining engagement between the fuel manifold and the combustor during operation of the gas turbine engine.
US08353163B2
A fuel nozzle is provided. The fuel nozzle includes a heat shield, a fuel tube and a plurality of support members. The support members are radially interposed between the heat shield and the fuel tube. The support members are preferably cylindrical tubes, thus creating voids or pockets between the heat shield and the fuel tube. The cylindrical tubes are connected to one another at a first end are free at an opposed end. As such, the tubes can move or slide relative to one another. Further, the tubes preferably only contact one another with at most line contacts. The fuel nozzle may also include a tip portion that includes a tip heat shield that extends radially outward from the primary heat shield. The tip heat shield defines a cavity that connects with the central cavity of the heat shield. The fuel tube extends through the tip heat shield.
US08353159B2
An internal combustion engine has at least two double action internal combustion cylinders and a separate double action compressor cylinder. Each double action internal combustion cylinder has a multi-point ignition system for each combustion chamber for causing multiple flame fronts to cause the fuel/air mixture to burn more quickly. Furthermore, the engine has a closed heat recovery system that takes heat from the exhaust of the internal combustion cylinder system and delivers power to a crankshaft. Accordingly, the internal combustion engine has increased efficiency by minimizing friction and extracting energy from multiple sources.
US08353158B2
A turbocharger bearing housing defines a bore in which the turbocharger shaft is mounted for rotation in journal bearings. Lubricating oil is delivered to the journal bearings and a residue is retained in reservoirs in which the journal bearings are located. Two fluid retaining members are disposed around the shaft, each forming a wall of the reservoir and being sealed to the bearing housing. The lubricating fluid reservoir is provided between the fluid retaining members to a depth that at least partially immerses the journal bearings even when the oil supply is interrupted. This ensures that there is sufficient oil to lubricate the bearings at engine start-up, thereby reducing the risk of wear.
US08353157B2
An open center hydraulic system that includes a variable displacement pump having an inlet, an outlet and a sensing port, the pump configured to provide reduced fluid flow in response to a predetermined fluid pressure differential between the outlet and the sensing port. A first fluid circuit and a second fluid circuit each serve as signal lines with the pump sensing port. During operation of the second fluid circuit, reduced fluid flow from the pump outlet is achieved as a result of the sum of induced fluid pressure reductions of respective controlled pressure reduction devices approaching the predetermined pump fluid pressure differential.
US08353155B2
A catalyst system comprising a first catalytic composition comprising a first catalytic material disposed on a metal inorganic support; wherein the metal inorganic support has pores; and at least one promoting metal. The catalyst system further comprises a second catalytic composition comprising, (i) a zeolite, or (ii) a first catalytic material disposed on a first substrate, the first catalytic material comprising an element selected from the group consisting of tungsten, titanium, and vanadium. The catalyst system may further comprise a third catalytic composition. The catalyst system may further comprise a delivery system configured to deliver a reductant and optionally a co-reductant. A catalyst system comprising a first catalytic composition, the second catalytic composition, and the third catalytic composition is also provided. An exhaust system comprising the catalyst systems described herein is also provided.
US08353146B1
Ice bagging assemblies comprising an ice bag merchandiser, an ice bag diverter positionable between first and second positions to drop ice bags into different first and second regions within the ice bag merchandiser. Methods of stacking ice bags in an ice bag merchandiser comprising receiving an ice bag in an ice bag diverter and dropping the ice bag to a first region of the ice bag merchandiser when the ice bag diverter is in a first position and dropping the ice bag to a second region of the ice bag merchandiser when the ice bag diverter is in a second position.
US08353123B2
A forearm stock for a shotgun includes a forearm stock main body, an integral shot shell carrier tube, disposed in the main body, an accessory rail, at the forward end of the main body, and a removable cover, adapted to cover the accessory rail. The forearm stock main body has a forward end, a back end, a contour, and an upper cavity for receiving a shotgun's tube magazine. The shot shell carrier tube is disposed below the upper cavity, and is adapted to receive a plurality of shot shells, with an opening toward the back end. A mechanism for urging the shot shells out of the carrier tube through the opening is provided, and a retention mechanism is adapted to selectively retain the shot shells in the carrier tube. The removable cover has a contour that substantially complements a contour of the main body.
US08353121B2
Processes and systems for detecting a shot by a projectile weapon are disclosed. Data is obtained along at least two different axes for use in determining whether a shot has taken place based on an evaluation by a processor. In certain embodiments, multiple detection systems are positioned on a weapons platform mounting multiple projectile weapons, and each is configured to detect only a shot by a respective one of the projectile weapons.
US08353117B2
A boot accessory for attachment and wear along an upper portion of a boot for altering and enhancing the overall appearance of the boot includes a clip having a main body, a flexible finger extending from the main body, and first and second side body extensions that define first and second slots along two opposing sides of the main body. A space is formed between the finger and an inner surface of the main body for receiving an upper edge of the boot. The boot accessory also includes a decorative boot band having a first end and an opposing second end. The first end is fixedly attached to the first side body extension by passing through the first slot. An inner surface of the boot band includes at least one fastening element to permit the second end of the boot band to be folded onto itself and be attached to the inner surface of the boot band by first passing through the second slot and then being folded and attached to the inner surface so as to form a continuous circumferential member.
US08353093B2
For turbo-diesel application trucks, it is desirable to enable the quickest exit of the exhaust from the engine because, in most cases, the exhaust gas temperatures of these engines are very high. Thus, a hole is formed in the hood of the trucks and the exhaust stack is slid through the hole to permit the quickest exit of the exhaust into the atmosphere. However although the hood may be non-horizontally oriented, the stack should be kept in a vertical position. Thus, a stack mounting basket is positioned beneath the hole having three widely separated outwardly extending threaded bolt extensions that are positioned within three slotted downwardly extending elongated members affixed to the hood. The relative positions of the elongated members with respect to the threaded bolt extensions are adjusted, and nuts are tightened over the elongated members to permit the stack to maintain a vertical orientation.
US08353092B2
A surgical fastener comprising a clip movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration and a biasing member contacting the clip and biasing the dip to its open configuration when the biasing member is actuated. The biasing member and clip both tend to assume the closed configuration when no external forces are applied to them. A needle may be releasably attached to the clip. Methods for making the fasteners are also disclosed, in which both the clip and the biasing member are set in the closed position.
US08353091B2
A stun gun dart acquiring, removing and housing device and method of using this device to remove a dart. The device provides a container, such as a tube, and a slider supported at least partially inside the container and is adapted to grasp a stun gun dart. The user places the slider over the dart, thereby engaging the dart into the distal end of slider and then moves the device away from subject, removing the dart. Then, the user moves the slider rearward into the container to store the dart in a safe location. The dart once locked in place inside the container can now be handled and viewed without concern of inadvertent contamination.
US08353088B2
A shoelace tightening device. A housing has a base plate affixed to the tongue of a shoe, and a side wall formed on the base plate. A rotation member has a rotator seated on the side wall of the housing and formed with a ratchet gear on its inner surface, and a bobbin formed on the lower surface of the rotator. A cover is placed on the ratchet gear. A stopper has a head which can slide on the cover, a bridge which extends downward from the head, and a pawl member which is formed on the lower end of the bridge. A coupling shaft is coupled to the base plate and has a stopper housing. The pawl member is received in the stopper housing. A spring is interposed between the inner surface of the stopper housing and an end of the pawl member.
US08353076B1
A hair brush with a slideable brush head that allows the brush head to be positioned on either end of the elongated handle to thereby providing ease of use by both right handed or left handed users. The elongated handle has different ways thereon to arrest the brush head in any desired position. The brush head may also be removed from the handle, if so desired, so that a brush head of a different circumference but the same inner diameter may be used.
US08353073B2
The invention relates to a brush arrangement for a carwash facility, comprising at least one horizontal cross-beam (1), on which at least one support arm (2) is pivotally supported in the horizontal plane, wherein at one end of the support arm (2) an articulated joint (4) is provided, which is pivotally articulated at the upper end thereof about a horizontal articulated axis (5) on the support arm (2) and at the lower end thereof a washing brush (6) is pivotally supported about a horizontal brush pivot axis (7). It is provided according to the invention that the articulated axis (5) and the brush pivot axis (7) enclose an angle of 30° to 60° in order to configure such a brush arrangement such that the corner regions of the vehicles can thus also be cleaned satisfactorily. The invention also relates to a method for cleaning a vehicle in a carwash facility using a brush arrangement according to the invention.
US08353063B1
A garment worn under a bridal gown in a manner similar to a petticoat having vertical strips of elastic to retract the garment under the gown for photographs. The elasticized hem of the garment can be pulled from under the bottom of the gown to allow the wearer to carry the gown and protect it from being soiled. The garment is provided with a tight fitting waistband that secures around the wearer's waist. A skirt of the garment is somewhat circular with the front somewhat shorter in length than the back. Loops are provided near the hem as a means for holding the hem of the garment when carrying the gown within the garment. An elastic band from the garment's hem can be pulled from the casing as shoulder straps for carrying the gown hands-free.
US08353062B2
A protective pad includes a pre-tensioned resilient padded membrane resiliently suspended to a semi-rigid shell. A cavity is defined between the pre-tensioned padded membrane and the shell. In use, the pad is attached to the limb or joint to be protected with the tensioned membrane engaging the limb or joint to be protected. The pre-tensioned membrane and air cushion in the cavity absorb the energy of an impact transferred by the shell during a sporting event or other activity.
