US09069920B2
A method implemented on a data processing system for circuit synthesis is discussed. In one embodiment, the method comprises determining a net of a circuit design, the net driving one or more first loads to use a first type of routing resources and one or more second loads to use a second type of routing resources, and splitting the net into a first net and a second net, the first net driving the one or more first loads, the second net driving the one or more second loads.
US09069917B2
A probability in which a stress amplitude σp of an operating stress exceeds a stress amplitude σw of a fatigue strength (a fatigue strength excess probability pV0 of a virtual cell) at each virtual cell in which a region of a machine component is equally divided so that one inclusion is contained therein and having a virtual unit volume V0 is derived on an assumption that a distribution function of an inclusion size √{square root over ( )}area follows a generalized Pareto distribution. Then a probability in which the stress amplitude σp of the operating stress exceeds the stress amplitude σw of the fatigue strength (a fatigue strength excess probability pfV of the machine component) in at least one virtual cell is derived from the fatigue strength excess probability pV0.
US09069912B2
A Network-on-Chip (NoC) is provided that performs reordering of transaction responses such as those with requests that cross address mapping boundaries. Ordering is ensured by filtering logic in reorder buffers, some of which include storage to allow multiple simultaneously pending transactions. Transactions are transported by a packet-based transport protocol. The reorder buffering is done at packet level, within the transport topology. Reorder buffers are distributed physically throughout the floorplan of the chip, they have localized connectivity to initiators, and they operate in separate power and clock domains.
US09069907B2
Some examples include a system, a computer program product, an apparatus, and the like, configured to perform operations to access, in response to a request by a first instance of an operating system, data stored in a memory of a kernel of a second instance of the operating system. The operations are further to determine whether the data stored in the memory of the kernel of the second instance of the operating system is in a data format that is compatible with the first instance of the operating system. The operations are further to provide the data in the data format that is compatible with the first instance of the operating system. For instance, in some examples, the operations are to determine that the data is in a format incompatible with the first instance of the operating system, and reformat the data in the data format compatible with the first instance of the operating system.
US09069886B2
A home medical apparatus can give explanations corresponding to the levels of proficiency in operation when explaining to a patient about operation procedures. A home medical apparatus according to this invention includes a selection unit which selects an explanation mode corresponding to the level of proficiency in operation, a storage unit which stores a plurality of display windows classified to the respective explanation modes upon associating them with each other between adjacent levels, and a display control unit which displays the display windows classified to the selected explanation mode in a predetermined order. When a detailed explanation button is pressed, the display control unit makes transition to a display window classified to an explanation mode one level lower than the current explanation mode.
US09069870B2
The present invention discloses a solution for handling HTTP requests for content produced asynchronously by multiple servers, where a requesting client aggregates content. In the solution, a client can issue a content request to a request receiving server. The content request can define a request context. The request receiving server can deliver initial content including placeholders to the client, can issue asynchronous requests to multiple placeholder content servers, and can thereafter terminate threads/processes and can free resources involved in handling the request context. Each of the placeholder content servers can process one of the asynchronous requests and can convey placeholder content results to a result distribution service. The result distribution service can provide the client with the placeholder content. The client can aggregate the content from all sources.
US09069866B2
Location-specific content is automatically generated for a particular entity having a plurality of physical locations. Database entries that contain identifying data associated with the particular entity are searched for to obtain location information of each of the plurality of physical locations. The location information, in correlation with one or more keywords associated with the particular entity, is stored in a computer-readable electronic database such that a user-generated query that includes at least one of the keywords and a search location causes a processor to execute operations that initiates a search of the computer-readable electronic database for the location information of the physical locations that are in proximity to the search location. At least one result that is displayable to the user is provided.
US09069863B2
Identifying parameter and name/value pair separators within two or more strings of data. The identifying is performed by selecting at least one name/value pair separator candidate from the two or more strings of data, and filtering the at least one name/value pair separator candidate using one or more rules, thereby removing any of the name/value pair separator candidates that do not conform to any of the one or more rules. The identifying additionally includes selecting at least one parameter separator candidate from the two or more strings of data, and filtering the at least one parameter separator candidate using one or more rules, thereby removing any of the at least one parameter separator candidates that do not conform to any of the one or more rules. The result is a set of tuples that includes a name/value separator candidate, and a parameter separator candidate.
US09069861B2
According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a query generation system generally includes an element rank and inference engine in communication with a computing system and a user interface. The element rank and inference engine is operable to receive a user supplied element from the user interface, the user supplied element being associated with a first filter criterion. The element rank and inference engine is also operable to create, using the first filter criterion, at least one second element and rank according to their relative importance, the at least one first element and the at least one second element according to their associated first filter criterion and second filter criterion. Next, the element rank and inference engine may output the at least one first filter element and the second filter element to the computing system.
US09069851B2
A graphical user interface is displayed. The graphical user interface includes at least one communication control for managing communications with other network nodes and at least one browser control for navigating to different network resource addresses. Human perceptible realtime output is generated from realtime communication data relating to a realtime communication session with at least one other client network node. In the process of generating of at least some of the human perceptible realtime output, operation of the client network node is managed based on at least one performance target. In the graphical user interface, a graphical representation of a network resource identified in connection with the browser control is displayed.
US09069845B2
Personalized electronic-mail delivery is disclosed. The content of incoming electronic-mail messages is identified. Determinations may be made with respect to whether the content of the incoming electronic-mail messages corresponds to a user profile. The user profile may indicate one or more user preferences of a particular user with respect to incoming electronic-mail messages. If the incoming electronic-mail messages correspond to the one or more user preferences indicated in the user profile, the electronic-mail messages may be delivered to an electronic-mail server. The electronic-mail messages may then be displayed to the user via a list of electronic-mail messages reflective of those messages that are stored at the electronic-mail server and accessible to the end-user.
US09069841B1
An information retrieval system includes a query revision architecture that integrates multiple different query revisers, each implementing one or more query revision strategies. A revision server receives a user's query, and interfaces with the various query revisers, each of which generates one or more potential revised queries. The revision server evaluates the potential revised queries, and selects one or more of them to provide to the user. A session-based reviser suggests one or more revised queries, given a first query, by calculating an expected utility for the revised query. The expected utility is calculated as the product of a frequency of occurrence of the query pair and an increase in quality of the revised query over the first query.
US09069838B2
A processor-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product generate and utilize a dimensionally constrained hierarchical synthetic context-based object library for multiple synthetic context-based objects. A non-contextual data object is associated with a context object to define a synthetic context-based object, where the non-contextual data object ambiguously relates to multiple subject-matters, and where the context object provides a context that identifies a specific subject-matter, from the multiple subject-matters, of the non-contextual data object. The synthetic context-based object is then associated with at least one specific data store, which includes data that is associated with data contained in the non-contextual data object and the context object. A dimensionally constrained hierarchical synthetic context-based object library for multiple synthetic context-based objects is then constructed for handling requests for data stores.
US09069837B2
Provided are techniques for processing a multidimensional query. For each multidimensional expression in the multidimensional query, the multidimensional expression is evaluated to generate a representation that includes an evaluation context, a degeneration status, and condensed value storage that does not store data that would be replicated due to degeneration, and the representation is stored.
US09069820B2
A computer system performs data processing using a data organizer which parses a primary set of data into predefined sets of data components according to one or more enterprise models. The sets of data components from the data organizer are respectively stored in multiple data sources. The data components may be stored as a binary file or hierarchical file. A plurality of data processing systems execute the enterprise models. A task manager controls which enterprise model executes on each data processing system. The data processing systems access the data components from the data sources which correspond the executing enterprise model. The data components are sent over dedicated communication channels to the data processing systems. Each data processing system may have a data interface, which is configured to receive data from different sources and convert the data into a standard format.
US09069816B2
Techniques for incorportating query results into an abstract database are described. Embodiments receive a first set of query results produced by executing a first abstract query using a first data abstraction model against a first database. One or more mappings between the first set of query results and one or more logical fields in a second data abstraction model are then determined, where the second data abstraction model models underlying physical data in a manner making a schema of the physical data transparent to a user of the second data abstraction model. Embodiments modify one or more logical field definitions to reference the first set of query results using the determined one or more mappings, such that abstract queries can be executed against both the second database and the first set of query results using the modified second data abstraction model.
US09069814B2
A user interface application is created to prompt a user for information and to generate a query to be submitted to a natural language (NL) query answering system. A first user is prompted to submit an NL query, and the NL query is received. The user interface application is generated using the NL query and so that the user interface application is configured to prompt the first user or a second user to provide information, receive the information, generate a computer-generated query based on the NL query and the received information, provide the computer-generated query to the NL query answering system, receive answer information from the NL query answering system in response to the computer-generated query, and cause at least some of the answer information to be displayed on a display device.
US09069806B2
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for virtual block storage. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a request to initialize a virtual machine, the virtual machine having an associated virtual block device; accessing a file map comprising a plurality of file map entries; determining file map entries corresponding to blocks of data allocated to the virtual block device and one or more files in which the blocks of data allocated to the virtual block device are stored; determining that a particular one of the blocks allocated to the virtual block device has been written to a new position not associated with the particular block in the file map; and updating the position associated with the particular block to the new position.
US09069802B2
This application relates generally to defining a domain-specific syntax characterizing a functional information system and performing operations on data entities represented by the domain-specific syntax, including defining a domain-specific syntax, receiving and storing a domain-specific data entity, assigning a syntactic tag to the domain-specific data entity, and electronically storing the tag assigned to the data entity in the electronic data store so that the tag is logically linked to the stored data entity.
US09069792B1
A method and system for efficient usage of revision control system resources by providing a client-based file system tree based on managed cache resources is provided. The managed cache resources include both a persistent, disk-based cache that maintains copies of requested file data from a repository server and an ordered tree data structure-based metadata cache for tracking file metadata across revisions. Embodiments of the present invention further maintain in the data cache data related only to specifically requested files. Embodiments of the present invention further track a range of versions of the file system tree for which particular file versions are applicable, so that unnecessary downloading to the client of unchanged files is avoided. Thus, file data and metadata are only requested from a repository server when needed and only a single version of a file is maintained until a modification to that file is made.
US09069789B2
A method and apparatus for managing metadata in a portable terminal are provided. The method includes, upon insertion of an external memory, acquiring a unique identifier of an external memory, determining whether a record having information identical to information of a file included in the external memory exists if the unique identifier is identical to a previously stored unique identifier, and reusing metadata included in the record if the record exists.
US09069788B2
An embodiment of a multi-tenant database system includes a multi-tenant database, an entity definition table, and a data processing engine. The database has objects for multiple tenants, including an existing object for a designated tenant. Each entry in the existing object has a respective entity identifier. The definition table has entries for the database objects, including a metadata entry for the existing object. This metadata entry has a tenant identifier for the designated tenant, an entity name for the existing object, and an old key prefix for the existing object. Each entity identifier of the existing object begins with the old key prefix. The engine performs a data truncation operation on the existing object by updating the metadata entry to replace the old key prefix with a new key prefix. This results in an updated object that is identified by the new key prefix and the tenant identifier.
US09069778B1
Cloud object storage is enabled for archived data, such as checkpoints and results, of high performance computing applications using a middleware process. A plurality of archived files, such as checkpoint files and results, generated by a plurality of processes in a parallel computing system are stored by obtaining the plurality of archived files from the parallel computing system; converting the plurality of archived files to objects using a log structured file system middleware process; and providing the objects for storage in a cloud object storage system. The plurality of processes may run, for example, on a plurality of compute nodes. The log structured file system middleware process may be embodied, for example, as a Parallel Log-Structured File System (PLFS). The log structured file system middleware process optionally executes on a burst buffer node.
US09069771B2
A music recognition method and system for retrieving metadata based on content associated with a media file. The system includes a music recognition plug-in module associated with a music management unit that communicates with a centralized music repository. The unknown media file may be scanned for collecting a snippet and sent to the music repository in response to a user request for identifying metadata associated with the unknown media file. The music management unit responds to the user with a matching set of standardized metadata, one or more potentially matching sets of data, or an indication that no match is made. The unidentified media file can be made available to the user via a Web interface associated with a socialized music server in order to populate the repository with the standardized metadata. A rating indicative of the user response to identify the metadata associated with the unknown media file can be provided in order to attract the user to contribute for the unknown media file identification.
US09069769B2
A method of managing an aggregate document includes a) presenting management options on a display device associated with a computing device in response to a user using the computing device to identify or select an aggregate document to be created of modified, b) presenting search selection options on the display device in response to the user selecting an embedded search service from a plurality of choices of embedded services, c) presenting a search result list on the display device after the user entered one or more search terms in a search text box and activated a search control and in response to receiving search results from a corresponding search conducted by the search engine, and d) adding a media content record to the aggregate document in response to the user activating an add control associated with a corresponding search result item.
US09069763B2
A method, a computer program product, and a computer system for integrating social media and infrastructure monitoring of a service provider. The method, the computer program product, and the computer system include mapping a service provided by the service provider to components of an infrastructure of the service provider, requesting a social media service to conduct a search of consumer feedback regarding the service, receiving information of the search from the social media service, evaluating the service through analyzing the information of the search, receiving status information of the infrastructure from a monitoring system of the service provider, correlating a result of evaluating the service to the status information of the infrastructure, and providing the service provider with visualization of the result that is correlated to the infrastructure.
US09069760B2
A mobile terminal and controlling method thereof are disclosed by which a user can be informed of an event associated with augmented reality based on an occurrence of the event using various haptic effects that differ from each other.
US09069759B2
A system and method for an administrator of a website to translate the strings within a website from the original language to “supported” language(s) by injecting computer code from a translation service website into the administrator's website template. The code subsequently analyzes, collects, and electronically transmits un-translated character strings via the Internet to the service's computer server for human or machine translations. The translated strings are then stored within the administrator's record on a system database. When a user of the administrator's website selects the supported language to view the website in, then the translated text immediately appears on the administrator's website and is stored in the user's device's memory. When the user visits the website in the future, the system will determine if new un-translated strings appear on the website, and translate and store them and/or store the identity of the supported language on the user's device.
US09069741B2
Systems and methods are disclosed for handling a level triggered interrupt generated by a device assigned to a virtual machine running on a host machine. An example system includes a host machine that hosts a virtual machine and a device coupled to the host machine. The device is assigned to the virtual machine and generates one or more interrupts. The example system also includes an interrupt handler that receives an interrupt generated by the device, masks the interrupt, injects the interrupt into the virtual machine, receives an indication that the virtual machine has attempted to access the device, and in response to the indication that the virtual machine has attempted to access the device, unmasks the interrupt from the device.
US09069737B1
Computer systems, such as network computing resources systems, are subject to hardware and software errors. To improve error handling and troubleshooting, information relating to errors is collected from a multitude of computer system and analyzed. As a result of this analysis, troubleshooting errors in computer systems is improved and errors are remediated automatically.
US09069728B2
A method and a system are provided for determining an AMF configuration of a highly available system with respect to whether to failover or restart a component when the component fails. The AMF configuration specifies at least two service-units containing components that represent resources, and a set of service-instances representing workload incurred by provision of services using the resources. The method identifies a failover duration and a restart duration for each component in a service-unit; and determines a failover outage and a restart outage for each service-instance impacted by a failure of a given component, based on the failover duration and the restart duration of each component in the service-unit. The method further determines whether to failover or to restart the given component if the given component fails, based on the failover outage and the restart outage of each service-instance impacted by the failure of the given component.
US09069727B2
Systems and techniques are described which improve performance, reliability, and predictability of networks. Geographically diverse network control nodes (NCNs) are provided in an adaptive private network (APN) to provide backup NCN operations in the event of a failure. A primary NCN node in a first geographic location is operated according to a primary state machine at an NCN active state. A client node is operated according to a client state machine. A secondary NCN node in a second geographic location that is geographically remote from the first geographic location is operated according to a secondary state machine at a standby state. The three state machines operating parallel and upon detecting a change in APN state information, the secondary state machine transitions from the standby state to a secondary active NCN state and the secondary NCN node provides APN timing calibration and control to the client node.
US09069720B2
A method of providing media at multiple bit rates using partial object caching may include receiving, from a first user device, a first request for a media object encoded at a first bit rate; providing the first portion of the media object to the first user device; and caching, in a partial object cache, the first portion of the media object. The method may additionally include receiving, from a second user device, a subsequent request for the media object encoded at the first bit rate; providing the first portion of the media object as retrieved from the partial object cache; and receiving a request for the media object encoded at a second bit rate. The method may further include modifying the request for the media object encoded at the second bit rate to instead request a second portion of the media object at the second bit rate.
US09069712B2
A primary storage controller is maintained in a copy relationship with a secondary storage controller, wherein the primary and secondary storage controllers are coupled to a host that is configurable to use the secondary storage controller instead of the primary storage controller. The primary storage controller determines occurrence of at least one condition in the primary storage controller, wherein the at least one condition occurs prior to a failure of the host to perform an Input/Output (I/O) operation with respect to at least one storage volume of the primary storage controller. The primary storage controller communicates the occurrence of the at least one condition to the host, wherein in response to the communicating the host is configured to determine whether to use the secondary storage controller instead of the primary storage controller based on the occurrence of the at least one condition.
US09069706B2
Efficient and effective permission confidential information protection systems and methods are described. The secure information protection systems and methods facilitate storage of confidential information in a manner safe from rogue software access. In one embodiment, a confidential information protection method is implemented in hardware and facilitates protection against software and/or Operating System hacks. In one exemplary implementation, a confidential information protection method includes setting a permission sticky bit flag to a default state upon system set up. The permission sticky bit flag access permission indication is adjusted at system reset in accordance with an initial application instruction. Access to the confidential information is restricted in accordance with the permission sticky bit and the permission sticky bit is protected from adjustments attempting to violate the permission indication. For example, another software application can not access or alter confidential information (e.g., an encryption key, initialization vector, etc.) if a permission sticky bit is designated as the highest security rating (e.g., disabling read permission and write permission until system reset).
US09069700B2
The present invention provides a method for constructing a three-dimensional structural model of an activated intermediate of a G protein-coupled protein receptor (GPCR) or a complex between a GPCR and a ligand. The three-dimensional structural model may be used to identify, screen, search, evaluate, or design GPCR agonists or antagonists. In a representative embodiment, a three-dimensional structural model of a photoactivated intermediate of rhodopsin is constructed using molecule modeling software and structural coordinates of the crystal structure of rhodopsin. The three-dimensional structural model of rhodopsin is subsequently used to construct structural models of activated intermediates of other GPCRs.
US09069694B2
A method for operating a memory device is disclosed. The method includes receiving a serial data and a serial cyclic redundancy check (CRC) code transmitted sequentially through a channel, converting the serial data into a parallel data and the serial CRC code into a parallel CRC code, outputting the parallel data at a first time point, outputting the parallel CRC code at a second time point later than the first time point, calculating a CRC code by using the parallel data, comparing the parallel CRC code and the calculated CRC code with each other and detecting an error of the serial data transmitted through the channel according to the result of the comparison, and outputting an error detection signal in response to the result of the comparison.
US09069691B2
A calculation method executed by a computer, the calculation method includes calculating, using a processor, a length of one side of a second module based on an area of the second module that is included in a first module in a circuit and includes devices; and calculating, using the processor, a length of a wiring of the first module based on the calculated length and the number of fan-outs of the first module.
US09069684B2
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for invalidating cache lines. In use, one or more cache lines that hold data from within a region of a memory address space are invalidated.
US09069674B2
A coherent attached processor proxy (CAPP) of a primary coherent system receives a memory access request from an attached processor (AP) and an expected coherence state of a target address of the memory access request with respect to a cache memory of the AP. In response, the CAPP determines a coherence state of the target address and whether or not the expected state matches the determined coherence state. In response to determining that the expected state matches the determined coherence state, the CAPP issues a memory access request corresponding to that received from the AP on a system fabric of the primary coherent system. In response to determining that the expected state does not match the coherence state determined by the CAPP, the CAPP transmits a failure message to the AP without issuing on the system fabric a memory access request corresponding to that received from the AP.
US09069669B2
A memory management method for a virtual machine system is provided. First, a first threshold value is set by a processor. A balloon target is then set to an allocated virtual memory size and decremented by a first decrement value stepwise by the processor according to a swapin/refault detecting result in a first adjustment state. The swapin/refault detecting result is generated by detecting at least one swapin or refault events by the processor. The balloon target stops being decremented by the processor according to the swapin/refault detecting result in a cool-down state. The balloon target is decremented by a second decrement value stepwise by the processor in a second adjustment state which is after the cool-down state. The second decrement value is less than the first decrement value, and the balloon target is not less than the first threshold value.
US09069667B2
A method for operating a controller includes receiving a command associated with at least one operation, determining a CPU channel path based on the received command, determining a unique job identifier based on the received command, and determining a state based on the received command. In addition, the method includes updating at least one data matrix based on the determined state, unique job identifier and CPU channel path and operating the controller based on the updated data matrix.
US09069663B2
A method for optimizing memory bandwidth using bank-based memory allocation is described. The method includes receiving a request for an allocation of memory. In response to receiving the request, memory is allocated to the request based on a performance ranking of memory banks in a plurality of memory banks. A performance ranking of a particular memory bank may be based at least in part on both a busyness and a row hit ratio of the particular memory bank. Apparatus and computer readable media are also described.
US09069660B2
Systems and methods for writing to high-capacity memory are disclosed. In high-capacity memory systems in which the capacity of the characteristic portion of the memory (e.g., a page of NAND flash memory) exceeds the capacity of a buffer used to write to the memory, underutilization issues are prevalent. Data organized in the buffer can be combined with additional data to improve utilization of the characteristic portion. According to various embodiments, the additional data can include duplicate copies of the data, whitened data, or any other suitable type of data.
US09069659B1
A non-transitory computer readable medium that stores instructions for: reading a first group of flash memory cells using a reference read threshold to obtain multiple read results; processing the multiple read results by performing at least one out of calculating a distribution of values of the multiple read results and counting a number of read results of a certain value; estimating at least one actual read threshold to be used during future read attempts in response to at least one out of (i) the number of read results of the certain value and (ii) distribution information about a distribution of values of the read results; and reading a second group of flash memory cells using the at least one actual read threshold to provide actual read results.
US09069655B2
At every first prescribed timing, a positional information piece is generated. Each generated positional information piece represents a position of a vehicle which occurs at the corresponding first prescribed timing. Each generated positional information piece is written into one of storage areas in a storage device. At every second prescribed timing, positional information pieces in the storage areas are sent to a positional information collecting apparatus, and new positional information pieces are allowed to be written into the storage areas in which the sent positional information pieces are stored. In the event that sending the positional information pieces in the storage areas to the positional information collecting apparatus is impossible, a new positional information piece or pieces are allowed to be written into one or more of the storage areas which store a positional information piece or pieces having not been sent yet.
US09069651B2
Systems and methods for using an interactive television program guide application to access fantasy sports contests are presented. In some embodiments of the present invention, the interactive television program guide application may display information indicating to a user that one or more programs is related to a fantasy sports contest. In some embodiments of the present invention, the application may provide to the user a schedule of programs related to one or more fantasy sports contests in which the user participates. The application may provide additional features to fantasy sports contestants including automatic recording of programs related to a user's fantasy sports contest, playback of highlight video clips for events that affect a user's fantasy sports contest standing, and targeted advertisements for fantasy sports contests.
US09069650B2
A method for an entertainment system of a vehicle wherein a distance between the vehicle and a further vehicle is determined, and a symbol for the vehicle and a symbol for the further vehicle are displayed on a display device of the vehicle on the basis of the distance between the vehicle and the further vehicle. Actuation of a user control element is detected after the symbol for the further vehicle has been displayed. An actuation signal is received from the further vehicle indicating that a user of the further vehicle has actuated a corresponding control element of the further vehicle on account of a symbol for the further vehicle and a symbol for the vehicle being displayed on a display device of the further vehicle.
US09069649B2
An island-based integrated circuit includes a configurable mesh data bus. The data bus includes four meshes. Each mesh includes, for each island, a crossbar switch and radiating half links. The half links of adjacent islands align to form links between crossbar switches. A link is implemented as two distributed credit FIFOs. In one direction, a link portion involves a FIFO associated with an output port of a first island, a first chain of registers, and a second FIFO associated with an input port of a second island. When a transaction value passes through the FIFO and through the crossbar switch of the second island, an arbiter in the crossbar switch returns a taken signal. The taken signal passes back through a second chain of registers to a credit count circuit in the first island. The credit count circuit maintains a credit count value for the distributed credit FIFO.
US09069648B2
A personal electronic device (PED) is provided with a system for delivering activity based suggestive (ABS) messages (e.g., a motivational message, etc.) to a user based upon the current or anticipated activity of the user. In some embodiments, the user can define user preferences, which determine when and how ABS messages are initiated. In some embodiments, the message selection is based upon a detected activity, location, or speed of the user. In some embodiments, the message selection is based upon a detection of a local environmental event.
US09069647B2
A computer-implemented method for generating user stories for a software product, includes collecting, by a processor, a plurality of requirements, creating, by the processor, a plurality of content space specification files that includes the plurality of requirements, processing, by the processor, the plurality of content space specification files to generate the user stories that are related to real time data of the software product, defining, by the processor, a content space, mapping, by the processor, the user stories to the content space and embedding, by the processor, the content space with the software product, wherein user stories include at least one of real time log data, profile statistics data, and coverage metric self-reporting data.
US09069626B2
A Trusted Client-Centric Application Architecture (TC2A2) provides the ability to securely exchange data between applications. TC2A2 may be used to perform functions requiring data exchange between applications. For example, TC2A2 uses a universal data set to exchange data. Application data from a source application is converted to a universal data set, and then converted to application data for one or more target applications. Application data may be propagated to respective native applications. TC2A2 provides the ability to update, modify, and manipulate data for a plurality of applications using a single user interface.
US09069625B2
The disclosure relates to parallel processing of multiple digital data streams. The method includes transferring portions of incoming streams and attributes thereof to processors and obtaining respective portions of output streams and providing a sequence of the portions. Providing includes searching for a processor which is processing a portion of a particular incoming stream that has been located in a particular first stream before a portion already processed in said processor, and when several such processors are found, selecting a processor which is processing a portion of the particular incoming stream that is closest to the processed portion of the particular incoming stream. The processed portion of the particular incoming stream (and previously processed portions of the incoming stream from other processors) is transferred to the selected processor. If no such processors are found, the processed portions of the incoming stream are transferred to a respective output stream.
US09069620B2
A cloud manager controls the deployment and management of machines for an online service. A build system creates deployment-ready virtual hard disks (VHDs) that are installed on machines that are spread across one or more networks in farms that each may include different configurations. The build system is configured to build VHDs of differing configurations that depend on a role of the virtual machine (VM) for which the VHD will be used. The build system uses the VHDs to create virtual machines (VMs) in both test and production environments for the online service. The cloud manager system automatically provisions machines with the created virtual hard disks (VHDs). Identical VHDs can be installed directly on the machines that have already been tested.
US09069619B2
A method for a self-testing clusterware agent is provided. A clusterware agent that includes clusterware-side components and application-side components is configured to interface between a cluster manager and an application. The application-side components are invoked by clusterware-side components via an application programming interface, or API that includes API functions that are invocable by a cluster manager. Without any cluster manager invoking the clusterware agent, one or more of the API functions are invoked.
US09069618B1
A multiprocessor system dynamically updates CPU affinities for processes executing on processors of the multiprocessor system based on an external signal. The external signal is generated by a monitor device. The external signal identifies the processors and the processes that require updating. In response to the external signal, the multiprocessor system redistributes the processes identified in the external signal and powers on or off one or more processors based on a processor threshold associated with the multiprocessor system.
US09069616B2
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for managing resources in a computing system. For virtual hard disk drives supported by multiple physic hard disk drives over a network, artificial throttling of the disk access bandwidth is implemented, such that the resulting latency behavior of each virtual hard disk drive resembles the latency behavior of a corresponding physical hard disk drive emulated by the virtual hard disk drive. In various implementations, the artificial throttling simulates both characteristics of sequential access latencies and random access latencies on a physical hard drive.
US09069610B2
A scheduler for a compute cluster that allocates computing resources to jobs to achieve a balanced distribution. The balanced distribution maximizes the number of executing jobs to provide fast response times for all jobs by, to the extent possible, assigning a designated minimum for each job. If necessary to achieve this minimum distribution, resources in excess of a minimum previously allocated to a job may be de-allocated, if those resources can be used to meet the minimum requirements of other jobs. Resources above those used to meet the minimum requirements of executing jobs are allocated based on a computed desired allocation, which may be developed based on respective job priorities. To meet the desired allocation, resources may be de-allocated from jobs having more than their desired allocation and re-allocated to jobs having less than their desired allocation of resources.
US09069606B2
A method and system for application-level auto-scaling in a cloud computing environment is provided. An example system includes a data collector and a scaling module. The data collector is to collect application-level data that reflects demand for a subject computing application executing on the virtual instance of a machine provided by a virtualization service. The scaling module is to select a scaling action based on the application-level data and issue a request to perform the scaling action with respect to the virtual instance of a machine.
US09069601B2
A method and an apparatus for controlling task execution are disclosed in the present invention which relates to the field of wireless communications technologies, addressing the problem that power consumption of a terminal in standby mode is wasted because tasks of the terminal in a standby state are fixed and corresponding time periods cannot be flexibly set for different tasks. The method includes: receiving standby state parameters sent by a terminal management module; configuring the terminal according to the standby parameters so that the terminal enters a sleeping state; enabling a timer to start timing; stopping timing when the time of the timer reaches the time point at which a current task will be executed; configuring the terminal according to working state parameters of the terminal so that the terminal enters a working state; and receiving paging information sent by the terminal management module.
US09069588B2
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, for discovering entities in a first portion of a data center network, examining information associated with the discovered entities to determine relationships that exist between pairs of entities in the first portion of the data center network, and generating a specification of the relationships that exist between pairs of entities in the first portion of the data center network based on results of the examining.
US09069578B2
A set of rules and a current context for a user is obtained. The set of rules and the current context are used to determine a rule weight for each of a set of user interface elements. One or more of the user interface elements is caused to be displayed. Which user interface elements are displayed is based at least in part on the rule weights.
US09069576B2
The present invention includes systems of, methods for, and computer implemented products that present a nestable user interface for viewing and interacting with information displayed on a computer (or computing device) display. The nestable user interface allows a user to flexibly configure and associate information sources, both local and accessed over a network, and to seek various documents to view intuitively and by immediate visual recognition. The nestable user interface is also extensible.
US09069570B2
An information processing device, configured to be connected with a plurality of devices, includes a device extracting unit configured to extract, from the plurality of devices connected with the information processing device, a plurality of first devices of which respective drivers for controlling the plurality of first devices are to be installed into the information processing device, and an installation executing unit configured to consecutively install, into the information processing device, the respective drivers of the plurality of first devices extracted by the device extracting unit, in a single installation.
US09069568B2
A determination is made that at least one missing dependency reference of a portion of a software code build prevents full dependency resolution of the software code build. Search path processing is invoked using a SEARCHPATH definition to locate all additional accessible code modules that are potential candidate code modules to resolve the at least one missing dependency reference. The SEARCHPATH definition includes a set of predefined alternative search locations relative to dependency locations specified for the software code build. An interface definition of each coded method is identified within each located additional accessible code module found by the search path processing. A code module found by the search path processing that includes an identified interface definition of at least one coded method that resolves at least a portion of interface requirements of the at least one missing dependency reference is selected.
US09069548B2
A reconfigurable instruction encoding method includes the following operations: An instruction distribution of an application is counted, and multiple instruction pairs with higher utilization rates are accordingly found. Multiple instructions of the instruction pairs are duplicately encoded according to multiple reserved sections of an original instruction table, so that the instructions have corresponding reconfigured codes and a reconfigured instruction table extended from the original instruction table and including the reconfigured codes is obtained. A compiler is utilized to generate multiple machine codes according to the reconfigured instruction table and consecutive execution instructions. Hamming distance of the machine codes corresponding to the reconfigured instruction table and the execution instructions are not longer than Hamming distance of the machine codes generated according to the original instruction table and the execution instructions.
US09069545B2
Systems and methods are disclosed that allow atomic updates to global data to be at least partially eliminated to reduce synchronization overhead in parallel computing. A compiler analyzes the data to be processed to selectively permit unsynchronized data transfer for at least one type of data. A programmer may provide a hint to expressly identify the type of data that are candidates for unsynchronized data transfer. In one embodiment, the synchronization overhead is reducible by generating an application program that selectively substitutes codes for unsynchronized data transfer for a subset of codes for synchronized data transfer. In another embodiment, the synchronization overhead is reducible by employing a combination of software and hardware by using relaxation data registers and decoders that collectively convert a subset of commands for synchronized data transfer into commands for unsynchronized data transfer.
US09069540B2
An information handling system provides power to a peripheral through a peripheral interface, such as a USB interface, by communicating power availability with a primary set of power parameters through a data link and communicating power availability with a secondary set of power parameters through a power link. If a peripheral device has the capability to draw power at the second power parameters, it does so while monitoring for a fold back of host power that indicates power is not available at the second power parameters.
US09069524B2
A display is disclosed. A cover body includes at least one thermal welding pin. A liquid-crystal display panel is disposed on the cover body and includes at least one fastening through hole. The thermal welding pin of the cover body is fit in the fastening through hole of the liquid-crystal display panel and is welded to the liquid-crystal display panel using a thermal welding method.
US09069522B2
A fixing mechanism includes a first positioning component, a bridging component, a movable component, a base, a second positioning component, a latch and a driving component. The first positioning component and the bridging component are disposed on a backboard, and the movable component is slidably disposed on the bridging component. The second positioning component and the latch are disposed on the base. The latch includes a guiding pin slidably disposed on the movable component. The driving component is rotatably disposed on the latch. The driving component includes an actuating portion slidably disposed on the movable component. The actuating portion slides relative to a first slot on the movable component, so that the guiding pin slides at a second slot on the movable component and the base moves close to the backboard, so as to combine a first connector disposed on the base with a second connector disposed on the backboard.
US09069512B2
An information processing apparatus includes a storing unit configured to store a plurality of pieces of screen information, each corresponding to a type of an external device that is capable of accessing the apparatus, a transmitting unit configured to transmit the screen information to the external device, a receiving unit configured to receive an instruction request that is based on the screen information displayed in the external device, and an executing unit configured to execute processing in response to the instruction request received by the receiving unit. The screen information includes a common section that is common among the plurality of pieces of screen information regardless of the type of the external device and a difference section that differs among the plurality of pieces of screen information depending on the type of the external device.
US09069507B2
According to an embodiment, a print server connected to a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a network includes: a print-command acquisition unit that acquires a print command containing designation of one of the image forming apparatuses as a printing-assigned apparatus and designation of to-be-printed data; a determining unit that determines whether or not the printing-assigned apparatus is a speed-oriented apparatus; a raster image processing unit that, when the printing-assigned apparatus is not the speed-oriented apparatus, obtains rasterized data by performing raster image processing on the to-be-printed data written in a page description language; and a transmitting unit that, when the printing-assigned apparatus is not the speed-oriented apparatus, transmits the rasterized data to the printing-assigned apparatus, but when the printing-assigned apparatus is the speed-oriented apparatus, transmits the to-be-printed data to the printing-assigned apparatus.
US09069500B2
An information processing device including a communication unit communicating with a conversion device, and a control unit configured to select one or more target spreadsheets from among spreadsheets contained in target information, the target information being described in a format of a markup language and contains the spreadsheets, each of the spreadsheets being individually identified based on tag information contained in the target information, generate transmission information based on the one or more selected target spreadsheets, control the communication unit to transmit the generated transmission information to the conversion device, and control the communication unit to receive one or more pieces of image information from the conversion device, each of the one or more pieces of image information being generated through conversion by the conversion device based on a corresponding one of the one or more selected target spreadsheets included in the transmission information transmitted to the conversion device.
US09069483B2
An example method is provided and includes receiving, from a host device, a first signal over a two-wire bus to an address on the two-wire bus corresponding to a small form factor (XFP) module, the host device being located outside the XFP module, the two-wire bus coupling the host device with a first controller inside the XFP module and a second controller inside the XFP module that share the address such that the first controller and the second controller receive the first signal, and blocking a second signal from the second controller to the host device using digital isolation buffers. A third signal from the first controller to the host device over the two-wire bus is not blocked. In specific embodiments, the first controller includes a XFP compliant controller and the second controller includes an optical controller.
US09069482B1
Disclosed are systems and methods for performing backup and recovery operations. An indication may be received, where the indication indicates that a first backup or recovery operation should be performed for at least one storage location. The storage location may be associated with a software application configured to provide backup and recovery services for the at least one storage location. A plurality of resources may be identified, where the plurality of resources is a pool of resources configured to store a backup of one or more data values stored in the at least one storage location. A first resource of the plurality of resources may be selected as a target of the backup or recovery operation. In various implementations, the first resource is selected based on one or more performance capabilities of at least one resource of the plurality of resources.
US09069480B2
An exemplary method of creating a target storage layout table referenced for partitioning a storage space of a storage device includes following steps: identifying defective storage areas in the storage space of the storage device, and accordingly generating an identification result; and creating the target storage layout table according to the identification result; wherein when the identification result indicates that an actual storage area corresponding to a pre-defined partition with a pre-defined partition size has at least one defective area, setting a partition size of a partition defined in the target storage layout table according to the pre-defined partition size and a size of the at least one defective area.
US09069472B2
Methods and systems to disperse and collate I/O from virtual machines (VMs) among a plurality of near line controllers for parallelization of I/O's (parallel reads and parallel writes) and for providing redundancy for stored VM data is disclosed.
US09069468B2
A set of storage devices may interoperate to share a pool of storage space, such as in a Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks (RAID) scheme. However, the details of the representation of the pool and the allocation of capacity to the pool may enable advantages and/or impose limitations on the storage set. Presented herein are techniques for generating a representing a pooled partition on one or more storage devices featuring a pool configuration representing the pool as a set of spaces manifested by the pool; a set of storage devices sharing the pool; and a set of extents that map physical areas of the storage devices to logical areas of the spaces. The flexibility of these pooling techniques may enable such features as flexible capacity allocation, delayed binding, thin provisioning, and the participation of a storage device in two or more distinct pools shared with different sets of storage devices.
US09069462B2
Software, firmware, and systems are described for identifying characters in a handwritten input received from a user on an input device, irrespective of an angle that the input is received at. In one implementation, the system establishes an anchor point and distances from the anchor point to reference support lines. A set of candidate characters is identified based on received handwritten input. The system estimates support lines for each of the candidate characters. The system ranks the candidate characters based on a total deviation measurement from the expectation for each candidate, where the expectation in part is based on the established distance from the established anchor point to reference support lines, and identifies a best-ranked candidate based at least in part on a smallest total deviation measurement.
US09069457B2
An information processing apparatus including a first case that includes a first display having a touch-sensing function; a second case that includes a second display having a touch-sensing function; and a hinge mechanism configured to join the first and second cases in a rotatable manner such that both the first and second displays are exposed in a closed state and such that first and second displays are arranged side-by-side on substantially the same plane in an open state.
US09069455B2
Embodiments relate to three-dimensional user interfaces for managing and accessing applications. Applications are stored on storage of a device. A user interface is displayed on a display. The user interface includes interactively rotatable three-dimensional structures each comprised of regions, each region displaying a graphic representing a corresponding application, the applications activatable by interaction with the three-dimensional structures. Applications can be assigned to structures (volumes) manually or automatically. The three-dimensional structures may be rotated and otherwise manipulated by user input.
US09069453B2
A display input device is comprised of a touch panel 1 for carrying out a display of an image and an input of an image, a vibration sensor (a proximity sensor 12) for detecting a vibration of an object to be detected which is positioned opposite to the touch panel 1, a vibration correcting unit 304 for making a vibration correction when the vibration of the object to be detected which is detected by the vibration sensor has an amount equal to or larger than a predetermined amount, and a control unit 3 for carrying out a process of transforming an image in a display area having a fixed range displayed on the above-mentioned touch panel according to the position of the object to be detected to which the above-mentioned vibration correction has been made.
US09069447B2
A mobile terminal includes a controller, a touch screen, a memory configured to store a first list of at least one e-book of a first user and first reading progress information for each of the at least one e-book of the first user, and a communication module configured to receive e-book information including a second list of at least one e-book of a second user and second reading progress information for each of the at least one e-book of the second user. The controller is configured to display at least one icon on the touch screen, each of the at least one icon representing one of the at least one e-book in the first list or one of the at least one e-book in the second list, and display the first and second reading progress information corresponding to at least one e-book included in both the first and second lists.
US09069445B2
A page flipping method for an electronic device is provided. An exemplary method includes the following steps: displaying an interface comprising a page preview region and a page flipping region; displaying a page on the page flipping region, and displaying an icon group comprising a plurality of icons on the page preview region; determining whether a flipping gesture is applied on the page flipping region; determining the type of the flipping gesture; determining a page flipping manner according to the determined result of the gesture and a function table, and retrieving a corresponding target page according to the determined page flipping manner; creating a new icon group according to the retrieved target page; and displaying the target page on the page flipping region, and displaying the created new icon group on the page preview region. An electronic device using the page processing method is also provided.
US09069440B2
Methods, systems and apparatus are described to provide a three-dimensional transition for a map view change. Various embodiments may display a map view. Embodiments may obtain input selecting another map view for display. Input may be obtained through the utilization of touch, auditory, or other well-known input technologies. In response to the input selecting a map view, embodiments may then display a transition animation that illustrates moving from the displayed map view to the selected map view in virtual space. Embodiments may then display the selected map view.
US09069438B2
The performance monitoring system allocates virtual machines to users or user sessions according to a user categorization that is determine using user session information and virtual machine metrics. A session monitor of the performance monitoring system is notified that a user session terminated, where the user session accessed a virtual machine. The session monitor responsively records the user session information and obtains virtual machine metrics for the virtual machine from a virtual machine performance monitor. The performance monitoring system updates a user workload profile using the user session information and the virtual machine metrics, and categorizes the user of the user session according to the user workload profile. Upon receiving a request from a user for a virtual machine, a virtual desktop infrastructure requests a virtual machine from a virtual machine manager. The virtual machine manager responsively allocates a virtual machine to the user according to the user's categorization.
US09069436B1
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to providing a user the ability to self-declare one or more permission attributes about the user that form the basis for the filtering (e.g., the dynamic filtering) of current and/or future content. In this manner, access to the content may thus be governed by the self-declared permission attributes (in one example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive), the present invention may operate within a secure, tracked content delivery infrastructure).
US09069435B2
An innovative web-based tool displays visual information about real estate. In one embodiment, an aerial image is overlaid with various data layers to visually present real estate data. Data associated with various embodiments of the tool can include tax parcel information, historical sales information, Multiple Listing Service information, school information, neighborhood information, and park information.
US09069419B2
Methods are proposed for object positioning for an X-Y projected capacitive touch panel. In an embodiment, capacitance sensing under inphase excitation of traces is applied to set a base value when the capacitive touch panel is not touched and to obtain capacitances at intersections when the capacitive touch panel is touched, and the base value is compared with the measured capacitances to identify touch points. In other embodiments, X-Y projected sensing and all-point sensing are combined to reduce the amount of calculation and achieve the same positioning effect as an all-point capacitive touch panel.
US09069417B2
A method and system for tracking a hover event on a digitizer sensor that treats hover and touch events differently comprises configuring at least one parameter of the digitizer sensor for hover tracking; wherein the at least one parameter is configured differently than for touch tracking, and detecting a pattern of input signals from a plurality of conductive lines on the digitizer sensor defining a tracking point responsive to the pattern of hover input signals detected.
US09069416B2
Systems and methods allow a user to select a subset of displayed content using a touch screen. A user can touch the screen at or near a portion of the displayed content that the user would like to select. The touch module can display the selection of the selected portion on the touch screen using an indicator (e.g., highlighting, underlining, change in color). While the user continues to touch the screen, the selection of displayed content can expand to select additional content based on at least one rule. The rule(s) define how the selection of displayed content expands using characteristics of the user's touch. For example, these characteristics can include an amount of pressure exerted on the screen, a direction of finger roll at the point of contact with the screen, and an amount of time that the user has touched the screen.
US09069404B2
A force imaging touch pad includes first and second sets of conductive traces separated by a spring membrane. When a force is applied, the spring membrane deforms moving the two sets of traces closer together. The resulting change in mutual capacitance is used to generate an image indicative of the amount or intensity of the applied force. A combined location and force imaging touch pad includes two sets of drive traces, one set of sense traces and a spring membrane. In operation, one of the drive traces is used in combination with the set of sense traces to generate an image of where one or more objects touch the touch pad. The second set of drive traces is used in combination with the sense traces and spring membrane to generate an image of the applied force's strength or intensity.
US09069402B2
A display apparatus includes first, second, and third gate driving chips applying gate signals to gate lines. A gate driving voltage is applied to the first gate driving chip and a gate driving voltage of the same level is applied to the second and third gate driving chips. In addition, the display apparatus includes a plurality of photo-sensors and first, second, and third scan driving chips applying scan signals to scan lines connected to the photo-sensors. A scan driving voltage is applied to the first scan driving chip and a scan driving voltage of the same level is applied to the second and third scan driving chips.
US09069399B2
A method calculates a correction factor for one or more of capacitance sensors and generates a current from a mutual capacitance of one of the capacitance sensors. The method applies the correction factor to the generated current to generate a corrected current and converts the corrected current to a digital value. The method determines a position of one or more conductive objects in proximity to the one or more capacitance sensors based on the digital value.
US09069398B1
A disclosed method for operating an electronic device having a touch panel display involves displaying an image on the touch panel display and detecting curved motion of a user input device touching and moving on the touch panel display. The detected curved motion at least substantially encompasses a portion on the displayed image. In response, the device enlarges or shrinks the displayed image on the touch panel display from a perspective encompassing the selected portion of the displayed image. The enlarging or shrinking of the displayed image on the touch panel display may continue during detection of the curved motion.
US09069385B1
Computer-readable media and systems for communicating physical gestures as compressed data streams are provided. In particular, a technique is employed for generating replicated physical gestures on a user-interface display to visibly communicate sign language without transmitting information standard to typical video sessions, such as audio or video frames. In general, the technique entails the following steps: receiving coordinate representations of user-initiated physical gestures (e.g., hand movements); deciphering the received coordinate representations to identify corresponding motion patterns; and conveying the motion patterns to a presentation component for rendering. Rendering involves replicating the physical gestures by providing animations that carry out the motion patterns. The coordinate representations are generally received from a mobile device that captures physical gestures of a sender by employing a position-tracking interface. Upon capturing the physical gestures, the mobile device maps the coordinate representations to the physical gestures and records/transmits the coordinate representations at a high-speed frame rate.
US09069376B2
A system and method for controlling movement of a vehicle. A current state of the vehicle is identified. The current state comprises a current location of the vehicle. A next state for the vehicle is selected by a processor unit. The next state comprises a next location for the vehicle. A value for an attribute of the next state of the vehicle is randomly selected. The movement of the vehicle is controlled to move the vehicle from the current state to the next state.
US09069370B2
A low drop-out regulator circuit includes a control circuit and a switching device. The control circuit has an output node. The switching device has a first terminal coupled with the output node of the control circuit. The switching device is configured to receive an input voltage at a second terminal of the switching device and provide an output voltage at a third terminal of the switching device. The control circuit is configured to provide a digital signal at the output node of the control circuit based on a feedback voltage of the output voltage at the third terminal of the switching device.
US09069361B2
A thermostat user interface (UI) is provided for presenting calculated set point ranges. The thermostat UI has a major thermostat scale for presenting a current temperature and an overall range of feasible temperatures. A set point indictor indicates a set point input (e.g., desired temperature) with respect to the major thermostat scale. A minor thermostat scale presents a set point range, where the set point range is a range of permitted temperature measurement variations from the set point input. The set point range brackets the set point indicator with a maximum temperature value representing a highest temperature in the set point range, and a minimum temperature value representing a lowest temperature in the set point range. If high and low temperature set point indictors are used, then there are first and second minor thermostat scales bracketing, respectively, the high and low temperature set point indicators.
US09069355B2
Systems and methods for transmitting measurement data wirelessly are described herein. A coordinate measurement device comprises an articulated arm comprising a plurality of articulated arm members, a coordinate acquisition member at a distal end, and a base at a proximal end. The device further comprises an add-on device assembly coupled to the coordinate acquisition member. The device further comprises a feature pack coupled to the base of the articulated arm. The feature pack may receive the coordinate data and the add-on device data packet, inserts bits of the coordinate data into a packet that can be transmitted over a network, and wirelessly transmits the packetized coordinate data and the add-on device data packet to a base station.
US09069348B2
A portable remote controller includes a display color setting unit, a display color information storage unit, and a teaching data display unit. The display color setting unit sets display colors for instructions for making a robot execute a predetermined behavior. The display color information storage unit stores the display colors set by the display color setting unit in association with the instructions. The teaching data display unit displays teaching data created by teaching on a display unit on the basis of the display colors.
US09069343B2
Systems and methods are provided to facilitate receipt of tag requests from one or more interfaces, based upon which a single tagset is compiled at a controller comprising all the requested tags for a given update rate, whereupon the single compiled tagset is subsequently forwarded to the one or more interfaces. A controller generates a superset of tags associated with an industrial process. Each interface can request a copy of the superset, from which the required tags are selected. The controller receives the requested tags from all of the interfaces and combines the requested tags into a single tagset, for a given update rate, comprising the various parameters associated with the tags. At the selected update rate, the tagset is forwarded to the interfaces. A masterset can be utilized to identify the sequence of tags in a tagset and check code can ensure continuity of the tags in the tagset.
US09069336B2
A method of determining and controlling position and attitude information associated with a 6-degree-of-freedom stage includes: receiving, from a plurality of sensors associated with the 6-degree-of-freedom stage, displacement information associated with the 6-degree-of-freedom stage. A plurality of equations associated with the plurality of sensors are determined by a control unit based on the displacement information to represent an amount of change in position and attitude associated with each measurement axis of each of the plurality of sensors. The control unit determines position information and attitude information associated with the 6-degree-of-freedom stage using the equations. Movement of the 6-degree-of-freedom stage is caused, at least in part, to be controlled based on the position information, the attitude information, or both the position information and the attitude information. Three coordinate values associated with each valid measurement point of each of the plurality of sensors are associated with at least one degree of freedom.
US09069330B2
An image forming apparatus includes a main body, an image forming unit having a plurality of photosensitive drums arranged in an arrangement direction, and a changing member disposed outside the image forming unit in an axial direction of the plurality of photosensitive drums and configured to move in the arrangement direction and move at least a part of the image forming unit between a first position and a second position. The main body includes a metal frame made of a metal sheet and disposed on a same side in the axial direction that the changing member is disposed. The metal frame includes a support portion configured to support the image forming unit and a guide portion configured to guide movement of the changing member. The guide portion is integrally formed with the support portion.
US09069326B2
An image formation apparatus comprises an opening and closing cover, a cover fulcrum shaft, a roller shaft, and a grounding member. The cover fulcrum shaft pivotably supports the opening and closing cover. The roller shaft is disposed on the opening and closing cover. The grounding member has a first portion connected to the roller shaft and a second portion connected to the cover fulcrum shaft. The cover fulcrum shaft has a bent part that is bent so as to extend in a direction intersecting the pivot axis direction of the opening and closing cover, the opening and closing cover includes an engaging part that engages with the bent part, and the cover fulcrum shaft integrally pivots with the opening and closing cover when the opening and closing cover is opened and closed.
US09069323B2
An image forming apparatus includes a frame, a photosensitive drum, an endless belt disposed above the photosensitive drum, and a pressing member. The photosensitive drum includes a drum body and a flange portion that is provided on one end portion of the drum body. The flange portion has a contacted portion and a pressed portion. The pressing member presses the pressed portion upward to permit the photosensitive drum to be in contact with the endless belt. The frame has a positioning portion disposed above the pressing member and above the photosensitive drum. The positioning portion is configured to be in contact with the contacted portion and to position the photosensitive drum when the pressing member presses the pressed portion. The pressed portion is disposed farther from the drum body in an axial direction of the photosensitive drum than the contacted portion.
US09069321B2
A waste container is detachably mounted on an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to electrophotographically print an image by using a developing agent formed by mixing a carrier and a toner and receives therein a waste during the printing. The waste container includes a first inlet through which a first waste is introduced, a second inlet through which a second waste is introduced, a first region in which the first waste is stored, and a second region that is separated from the first region and in which the second waste is stored.
US09069311B2
An image forming apparatus includes a toner image forming section, a fixing section, and a control section. The toner image forming section forms a toner image based on image data for printing on printing paper. The fixing section fixes the toner image on the printing paper through thermocompression. The control section controls a toner image forming operation by the toner image forming section and a fixing operation by the fixing section. The control section calculates a size parameter associated with a size of a uniform density region included in the toner image based on the image data for the printing and controls a fixing temperature of the fixing section according to a calculation result.
US09069308B2
There is described a fuser member comprising a substrate layer and a surface layer disposed on the substrate. The surface layer comprises a non-woven polymer fiber matrix having dispersed throughout a cross-linked fluoropolymer and a release agent. The release agent is a liquid at a temperature about 100° C.
US09069306B2
A fixing device may include first and second fixing members arranged to form a nip portion, an urging member that provides an urging force to urge the first fixing member toward the second fixing member, a change member configured to change a width of the nip portion from a first nip width to a second nip width by applying a pressing force to the first fixing member against the urging force of the urging member and change the width of the nip portion from the second nip width to the first nip width by releasing the pressing force, and a restriction portion configured to restrict movement of the first fixing member and restrict a maximum value of the first nip width of the nip portion while the pressing force against the urging force is released.
US09069292B2
A developer storage device includes a rotation member including a shaft portion protruding from a main body thereof; a support member formed with a hole by which the shaft portion is supported; and a first seal member disposed between the main body of the rotation member and the support member and including a hole into which the shaft portion is inserted. The support member includes a step portion. The step portion includes a first restraint section which restrains motion of the first seal member in an axial direction of the shaft portion, and a second restraint section which restrains motion of the outer periphery of the first seal member in a radial direction of the shaft portion.
US09069291B2
A cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes a rotatable member. A blade member, including a rubber portion, is contacted to the rotatable member, with a metal plate portion supported to the blade member. A frame, formed of a resin material, supports the blade member. A seal member, extending in a direction crossing an axial direction of the rotatable member so as to contact the rotatable member, is provided on the frame to be contacted to a portion of the rubber portion and the metal plate portion of the blade member. The seal member is formed on the frame by injection molding for sealing a gap between the blade member and the frame.
US09069290B2
A method for remanufacturing toner cartridges includes the use of a plurality of machine screw inserts. Each of a plurality of screw holes of a toner cartridge shell is tapped to create new threading within the plurality of screw holes. The plurality of machine screw inserts is positioned into the plurality of screw holes in order to reinforce the plurality of screw holes, wherein each of the plurality of machine screw inserts has a threaded outer surface and a threaded inner surface. The plurality of machine screw inserts provides a durable interface with a plurality of screws that reduces the chance of failure of the plurality of screws as the plurality of screws is positioned within the plurality of screw holes. An adhesive is applied to each of the plurality of machine screw inserts in order to secure the plurality of machine screw inserts within the plurality of screw holes.
US09069288B2
Toner housing container includes: container body mountable on toner conveying device and housing toner supplied into toner conveying device; conveying portion provided in container body and conveying toner from longer direction one end of container body to other end at which container opening portion is provided; pipe receiving port provided at container opening portion and receiving conveying pipe fixed to toner conveying device; and uplifting portion to move toner conveyed by conveying portion toward toner receiving port of conveying pipe. Toner has loose apparent density of 0.28 g/cm3 to 0.53 g/cm3. Container body includes protruding portion protruding from container body interior side of container opening portion toward one end. Uplifting portion includes uplifting wall surface extending from internal wall surface of container body toward protruding portion, and curving portion curving to conform to protruding portion. Protruding portion is present between curving portion and toner receiving port of inserted conveying pipe.
US09069287B2
An information storage device installed in a removable device configured to be removably installed in an image forming apparatus body, includes: an information storage unit that stores information communicated between the image forming apparatus body and the removable device; a terminal that comes in contact with a body side terminal; and a substrate that holds the information storage unit and the terminal and includes a hole configured to be engaged with a protruding section installed in the image forming apparatus body. The terminal includes a plurality of terminals each including one of a plurality of metallic plates arranged in a transverse direction thereof. An earth terminal, which comes in contact with a body side earth terminal formed in the protruding section, is formed in the hole. The hole is disposed at a position sandwiched between two metallic plates among the plurality of metallic plates.
US09069276B2
A liquid developer is obtained by dispersing toner particles containing at least a resin and a coloring agent in an insulating liquid. The toner particles have a core-shell structure that first resin particles containing a first resin are attached to or cover surfaces of second resin particles containing a second resin. The coloring agent contains nigrosine. A content of nigrosine in the toner particles is not lower than 1 mass % and not higher than 20 mass %. The second resin satisfies Equations (1) to (2) below. In Equations (1) to (2), x represents a number average molecular weight of the second resin and y represents a urethane group concentration (mass %) in the second resin. −0.00003x+2.03≦y≦−0.00003x+6.95 Equation (1) 10000≦x≦60000 Equation (2)
US09069273B2
A yellow toner is provided which is much more improved in color development and chroma, and much more improved in light resistance. The yellow toner contains, at least, a binder resin, a wax, and a coloring agent. The coloring agent is a compound represented by the following general formula (1).
US09069270B2
A toner containing a binder resin, a release agent, and pigment fine particles is produced by aggregating fine particles containing the components of the toner to obtain fine particle aggregates and then coalescing the fine particle aggregates. The pigment fine particles have an average primary particle diameter of 50 nm or less, a Cv value of less than 20%, and an average circularity of 0.900 or more.
US09069263B2
The invention relates to a method for improving the imaging properties of a micro lithography projection objective, wherein the projection objective has a plurality of lenses between an object plane and an image plane, a first lens of the plurality of lenses being assigned a first manipulator (ml, Mn) for actively deforming the lens, the first lens being deformed for at least partially correcting an aberration, at least one second lens of the plurality of lenses furthermore being assigned at least one second manipulator, and the second lens being deformed in addition to the first lens. Furthermore, a method is described for selecting at least one lens of a plurality of lenses of a projection objective as actively deformable element, and a projection objective.
US09069262B2
A fluid handling structure for a lithographic apparatus, the fluid handling structure having, at a boundary from a space configured to contain immersion fluid to a region external to the fluid handling structure: a meniscus pinning feature to resist passage of immersion fluid in a radially outward direction from the space; a plurality of gas supply openings in a linear array at least partly surrounding and radially outward of the meniscus pinning feature; and a gas recovery opening radially outward of the plurality of gas supply openings in a linear array.
US09069260B2
A catadioptric optical system operates in a wide spectral range. In an embodiment, the catadioptric optical system includes a first reflective surface positioned and configured to reflect radiation; a second reflective surface positioned and configured to reflect radiation reflected from the first reflective surface as a collimated beam, the second reflective surface having an aperture to allow transmission of radiation through the second reflective surface; and a channel structure extending from the aperture toward the first reflective surface and having an outlet, between the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface, to supply radiation to the first reflective surface.
US09069259B2
Improved dry stripper solutions for removing one, two or more photoresist layers from substrates are provided. The stripper solutions comprise dimethyl sulfoxide, a quaternary ammonium hydroxide, and an alkanolamine, a secondary solvent, and less than about 3 wt. % water. Methods for the preparation and use of the improved dry stripping solutions are additionally provided.
US09069258B2
A mask may include a circuit area and a pixel area. The circuit area includes a circuit pattern. The pixel area includes a pixel pattern which is extended in a length direction and an assist pattern which is at an end portion of the pixel pattern and adjacent to the circuit area.
US09069252B2
The invention provides a method for preparing a relief printing form from a photosensitive element. The method includes forming an in-situ mask disposed above a photopolymerizable layer of the photosensitive element, exposing the element to actinic radiation through the in-situ mask in an environment having an inert gas and a concentration of oxygen between about 50,000 ppm and about 2000 ppm to form at least a polymerized portion and an unpolymerized portion of the layer, and treating by heating the exposed element to a temperature sufficient to cause the unpolymerized portion to melt, soften, or flow.
US09069250B2
A method for manufacturing an electrowetting display unit includes the following steps. A first substrate and a second substrate are provided. A first conductive layer is disposed on one side of the first substrate. A second conductive layer is disposed on one side of the second substrate. A polymer layer, which includes a siloxane containing a light-induced cross linkable group and a Si—H bond, is disposed on the first conductive layer. The molecular weight of the monomer of the siloxane is equal to or greater than 5000. A part of the polymer layer is exposed to a light so as to form a plurality of hydrophobic sections. A hydrophilic section is developed by treating a developing agent. The hydrophilic section and the plurality of hydrophobic sections form a pattern layer together. Polar liquid and non-polar liquid are disposed between the pattern layer and the second conductive layer.
US09069247B2
The present invention provides a silicon-containing surface modifier containing one or more repeating units each represented by the following general formula (A), or one or more partial structures each represented by the following general formula (C):It is aimed at providing a resist lower layer film which is usable for a resist pattern formed of a hydrophilic organic compound to be obtained in a negative development.
US09069246B2
An actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition containing a compound capable of generating an acid upon irradiation with an actinic ray or radiation, represented by the formula (Z1), and the formula (Z1) is defined as herein, and a resist film formed using the actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition, a pattern forming method comprising a step of forming a film by using the actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition, a step of exposing the film, and a step of developing the exposed film, a method for manufacturing an electronic device, comprising the pattern forming method, and an electronic device manufactured by the method for manufacturing an electronic device.
US09069244B2
Methods for fabricating nanopatterned cylindrical photomasks are disclosed. A master pattern having nanometer scale features may be formed on a master substrate. A layer of an elastomer material may be formed on a surface of a transparent cylinder. The master pattern may be transferred from the master to the layer of elastomer material on the surface of the transparent cylinder. Alternatively, a nanopatterned cylindrical photomask may be fabricated by forming a pattern having nanometer scale features on an elastomer substrate and laminating the patterned elastomer substrate to a surface of a cylinder. In another method, a layer of elastomer material may be formed on a surface of a transparent cylinder and a pattern having nanometer scale features may be formed on the elastomer material by a direct patterning process.
US09069239B2
A collapsible display device includes a stand that includes a first part that supports against an underlying supportive surface, and a pole having a first end removably secured in said first part. The display device includes an essentially rectangular screen to be assembled to and disassembled from the display device and a first coupling arranged at a second end of said pole to cooperate with a second coupling arranged at a first short end of said screen. The first part includes at least one first fastener arranged at a shorter distance to the supportive surface than an at least one projector. The screen includes at least one second fastener arranged at a second short end to magnetically fasten to the at least one first fastener, a first magnetic strip arranged in connection with a first longitudinal end, and a second magnetic strip arranged at a second longitudinal end.
US09069224B2
An optical modulator includes: a modulator including an optical waveguide provided in a semiconductor substrate having an electro-optical effect and an electrode to apply an electric field depending on a bias voltage and a modulation signal to the optical waveguide; a driver circuit to generate a modulation signal in accordance with an input signal; a superimposer to superimpose a reference signal on the bias voltage, the reference signal having lower frequency than the modulation signal; and a controller to control a bias voltage in a direction orthogonal to a modulation direction of the modulator based on the frequency component of the reference signal extracted from a modulated optical signal generated by the modulator.
US09069216B2
A liquid crystal grating module (3) and a two dimension-three dimension switchable liquid crystal display device using the same. The liquid crystal grating module (3) comprises a first transparent electrode layer (20) and a second transparent electrode layer (50). The first transparent electrode layer (20) and the second transparent electrode layer (50) are provided with interval. The first transparent electrode layer (20) comprises a plurality of lateral electrode bars (202,204). The second transparent electrode layer (50) comprises a plurality of vertical electrode bars (502,504). The lateral electrode bars (202,204) and the vertical electrode bars (502,504) are alternately superposed on each other with interval to form a grating structure. The vertical electrode bars (502,504) have three different widths in the direction vertical to the liquid crystal display pixels.
US09069213B2
A liquid crystal display device with a pair of substrates which are arranged to face each other with liquid crystal therebetween, columnar spacers having the substantially equal height formed on a liquid-crystal-side surface of one substrate, and the columnar spacers include the columnar spacer which is contact with a liquid-crystal-side surface of another substrate and the columnar spacer which is not contact with the liquid-crystal-side surface of another substrate.
US09069201B2
A waterproof user interface panel includes an electronic display assembly having a touch or presence-sensitive surface.
US09069194B2
A polarization control device includes a MMI device having primary-side and secondary-side end-faces; a first phase shifter optically coupled to a first port in the primary-side end-face; a first optical waveguide optically coupled via the first phase shifter to the first port in the primary-side end-face; a second optical waveguide optically coupled to a second port in the primary-side end-face; and a tapered waveguide optically coupled to a first port in the secondary-side end-face. The first and second ports in the primary-side end-face are located on first and second axes, respectively. The first port in the secondary-side end-face is located on a third axis located between the first and second axes. The first, second, and third axes extend in a direction from the primary-side end-face to the secondary-side end-face. The tapered waveguide has a width decreasing in a direction from one end to the other end of the tapered waveguide.
US09069193B2
In order to independently perform control of a phase difference and a loss of light transmitting through an optical waveguide in a simple and easy configuration, an optical waveguide device includes an optical waveguide provided with two electrodes each supplied with a corresponding one of two signals; and a control unit for controlling the two signals so as to cause a phase variation and a loss variation which are caused in light transmitting through the optical waveguide by the two signals to each have a predetermined value.
US09069191B1
The present disclosure provides an eyeglass structure having flexible temples, comprising: a main body; and two flexible plastic temples respective connected at two ends of the main body. The two flexible plastic temples each have a front portion proximal to the main body and a rear portion extending from the respective front portion. The degree of flexibility of the rear portions is greater than that of the front portions. The rear portions can be bent to from a support structure for the ear portion of a user. By this configuration the conformity and comfort of the eyeglass structure is improved.
US09069188B2
A system and method for method applying a laminate to a lens. The laminate may be opaque, translucent or perforated. The laminate may cover a more than one side of the lens. The laminate may have an indicia thereon to show support for a country or team. The gap may be formed between the laminate and the edge of the lens. The laminate may be layered one on top of another. The method claimed is selecting a laminate with the desired properties i.e. magnifying lens, colored lens, lens with appropriate indicia, applying that laminate to a lens.
US09069182B2
A tube lens used in combination with an objective of the infinity correction type that enlarges the image of an object includes a first lens group including a cemented lens and having a positive power, a second lens group having a negative power, and a third lens group including a positive lens and a negative lens and having a positive power as a whole, in this order from the object side.
US09069179B2
Systems and methods for creating and viewing three dimensional digital slides are provided. One or more microscope slides are positioned in an image acquisition device that scans the specimens on the slides and makes two dimensional images at a medium or high resolution. These two dimensional digital slide images are provided to an image viewing workstation where they are viewed by an operator who pans and zooms the two dimensional image and selects an area of interest for scanning at multiple depth levels (Z-planes). The image acquisition device receives a set of parameters for the multiple depth level scan, including a location and a depth. The image acquisition device then scans the specimen at the location in a series of Z-plane images, where each Z-plane image corresponds to a depth level portion of the specimen within the depth parameter.
US09069177B2
A two dimensional/three dimensional (2D/3D) switchable display module, comprising a display panel, an optical module and a revising circuit is disclosed. The display panel has an active area. The optical module is disposed on the active area for changing a light path of a light emitting from the active area. A relative position information is between a position of the optical module and a position of the display panel. The revising circuit is used for providing a revising information based on the relative position information. The display panel receives the revising information and outputs an image corresponding to the optical module for displaying a three dimensional image.
US09069167B2
A illumination apparatus for microscope comprises a light source, a spatial modulation section, a first illumination optical system, a second illumination optical system, and the spatial modulation section includes a spatial modulation element which is of reflecting type, and a polarizing element, and the first illumination optical system is disposed in an optical path from the light source up to the spatial modulation element, and the second illumination optical system is disposed in an optical path from the spatial modulation element up to a specimen position, and a position of the spatial modulation element is conjugate with the specimen position. Moreover, a microscope comprises a illumination apparatus, a main-body section, an observation unit, and a control unit, and the illumination apparatus for microscope is to be used as the illumination apparatus.
US09069162B2
A lighting device, a method and a light wavelength conversion wheel assembly for color tuning thereof. The lighting device includes a light source which includes an excitation light source and a moving unit. The moving unit includes a light wavelength conversion wheel assembly having a heat dissipation base. The heat dissipation base is divided into a number of segments carrying different wavelength conversion materials, and is controlled to rotate intermittently or rotate to a predetermined angle around a wheel shaft serving as an axis. The heat dissipation base faces the exciting light and is illuminated locally. A control unit controls the rotation so that a predetermined area is rotated into the illumination area of the exciting light. Output light of a predetermined color is provided by the excitation light source and the predetermined area or the wavelength conversion material located in the predetermined area.
US09069149B2
A switch pack holds rows and columns of connector plugs and permits collective coupling of the plugs into ports. The switch pack includes a housing having a front face with front openings and a rear face with rear openings. An internal frame forms channels between the front openings and the rear openings, each channel holding a respective connector plug. One or more locking members releasably snap lock to the frame. Each locking member includes at least one blocking edge which extends into a channel and blocks removal of the channel's plug via the rear opening. A release tool for the switch pack includes a first wall with first tabs and a second wall with second tabs, connected to the first wall by a third wall. Each of the first and second tabs protrudes into a channel of the first and second rows of channels to depress a plug latch.
US09069145B2
An optical communication module according to the present invention includes an optical semiconductor element including an optical function region that performs light-receiving function or light-emitting function, a first resin member which covers the optical semiconductor element and is made of a resin that transmits light emitted from the optical function region or light to be received by the optical function region, and a second resin member which covers the first resin member. A portion of the first resin member is exposed from the second resin member. The optical communication module further includes an attachment hole for attaching an optical fiber. The attachment hole includes an opening that opens at the portion of the first resin member which is exposed from the second resin member.
US09069140B2
An optical fiber connector by which a worker can easily connect optical fibers at an on-site location, and in particular to an optical fiber connector which makes it possible to prevent the problems that an adhered state of a ferrule optical fiber installed in a ferrule is broken owing to a bending phenomenon occurring when an elastic member ferrule moves within an allowable (set) movement range owing to the nature of elastic force member or a connected state of a fusion connection part is damaged.
US09069136B2
An optical stack (400) having a plurality of alternating polymeric layers (401, 402) is described. The alternating layers may be alternating birefringent (syndiotactic polystyrene, sPS) and isotropic (CoPENa) layers, or alternating positively and negatively birefringent layers. Birefringent layers are made using polymers which form optically symmetrical crystallites upon stretching of the polymer. The optical stack has a large refractive index difference in the x-direction (the stretching direction) and small refractive index differences in the y- and z-directions (the non-stretching directions). The optical stack can be made using standard film tentering methods and may be a multilayer reflective polarizer.
US09069126B2
An optical element includes a transparent substrate and an antireflection coating on the substrate. The antireflection coating includes an intermediate layer on the substrate, and an undulation layer that is formed on the intermediate layer and has a plurality of convexes arrayed with spacing shorter than a shortest wavelength. The undulation layer has a portion where refractive index increases from a light incident side to the substrate. The intermediate layer has a first layer closest to the substrate, and a second layer formed on the first layer. A refractive index n1 of the first layer, a refractive index n2 of the second layer, and a refractive index ns of the substrate satisfy the following conditional equations: 1.75≦ns≦2.20; n1
US09069121B2
A woven fiber optic tapestry for conveying a specific representation of data on a woven fiber optic threaded surface. The tapestry is provided in a particular system including fiber optic threads threadedly arranged together to form a woven fiber optic panel, in which each of the threads is operatively connected to a light source, and a data interpretation device operatively connected to the light sources so as to provide a transfer of a pre-assigned value of data from the data interpretation device to the light sources and the threads, the transfer of the pre-assigned value causing an illumination of the light sources so as to correlate to a specific representation of the data.
US09069106B1
An edge-lit light emitting diode (LED) light panel includes a frame that has a first plate, a second plate, and a channel partially bounded by the first plate and the second plate. The edge-lit LED light panel also includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed in the channel, and a wave guide disposed within the frame. The wave guide has an outer perimeter edge abutting the plurality of LEDs.
US09069101B2
The present specification discloses a portable system for inspecting objects. The system includes a housing adapted to be carried by a vehicle, which houses a metal detector and an X-ray scanner and further includes a deployable boom positioned on a top surface of the housing. Operationally, the system is transported to a location, persons or objects are inspected by the metal detector or X-ray scanner and the boom is deployed to inspect external cargo. The integrated portable checkpoint system provides security screening and inspection equipment with increased operational capabilities in one fully integrated package.
US09069098B2
An NMR apparatus disposed in a wellbore and having an array of two or more NMR sensors located at substantially the same axial position on the NMR apparatus and having different directional sensitivities is used to acquire an NMR signal from at least two of the two or more NMR sensors. The NMR signals are combined to obtain borehole information. The borehole information may include an azimuthal image of the formation surrounding the borehole. The azimuthal image may be a formation porosity image, a formation bound fluid image, a T2 distribution image, a T2 log mean image, a formation permeability image, or a formation fluid viscosity image. If two or more pre-amplifiers and receiver circuitry are also provided, the NMR signals may be combined prior to passing through the pre-amplifiers and receiver circuitry to improve the signal to noise ratio of the total signal from the desired sample space.
US09069095B1
A method is described for obtaining an accurate and precise value for radiation output of a radiation generator. Radiation is generated in the radiation generator, and the radiation output of the radiation generator is measured using a radiation monitoring device. An instantaneous inferred radiation output is determined from operating parameters of the radiation generator, and over a period of time a calibration factor between the measured and the instantaneous inferred radiation output is determined. The accurate and precise value for radiation output is determined from the instantaneous inferred radiation output and the determined calibration factor.
US09069089B2
Positron emission tomography (PET) systems suitable for use with dirty (positron+prompt gamma) emitters are provided. One or more prompt gamma detectors are added to the PET system, where the prompt gamma detectors are responsive to the prompt gammas provided by the dirty emitter, but are not responsive to 511 keV annihilation photons. The prompt gamma detectors can surround the imaging PET detector array and/or be disposed as end caps relative to a generally cylindrical PET detector array. The prompt gamma detectors need not provide spatial resolution, because coincidence events in the PET detector array are classified as 2-photon or 3-photon events depending on whether or not there is a time-coincident signal from the prompt gamma detectors. One application of this approach is dual isotope PET where distinct tracers labeled with clean and dirty positron emitters are simultaneously imaged.
US09069084B2
A radiation detection apparatus can include a radiation sensor having a corresponding radiation sensing region, and a photosensor that is optically couple to the radiation sensor. The radiation sensing region can include optical fibers. In an embodiment, some or all of the optical fibers can be coated. The coating can include a phosphorescent material. In an embodiment, the optical fibers can be arranged in a manner such that optical substrates have substantially no bends.
US09069076B1
An identification apparatus, capable of distinguishing between a first class of objects and a second class of objects. This identification apparatus includes an identification tag, which is capable of providing a certain reflection band and a certain thermal emission band. The identification apparatus also includes a thermal weapon sight which has a long-wave infrared band-pass filter. This band-pass filter passes through a desired range of wavelengths and filters out an undesired range of wavelengths. The reflection band and the thermal emission band are detectable within the desired range of wavelengths.
US09069075B2
A method and system may operate a coupled range imager and intensity imager to obtain a sequence of at least two automatically registered images, each automatically registered image including concurrently acquired range data and intensity data with regard to an imaged scene. The registered range and intensity data is analyzed to yield an estimated motion of an element of an imaged object of the imaged scene.
US09069072B2
A radar apparatus includes a retrieval unit, an estimation unit, a calculation unit, and a determination unit. The retrieval unit retrieves a strong reflection object based on a signal strength which a frequency spectrum of a beat signal generated by mixing a transmission signal which is frequency-modulated and emitted and a reception signal which is formed in the transmission signal is reflected on a target indicates. The estimation unit estimates an estimation orientation which is an orientation of a target assumed to be present around the strong reflection object, based on a relative distance to the strong reflection object. The calculation unit calculates power which is the signal strength for the estimation orientation by generating an orientation spectrum in the estimation orientation based on a frequency component corresponding to the relative distance. The determination unit determines whether there is the target in the estimation orientation based on the power.
US09069071B1
A GNSS based steering control system for a mechanized irrigation corner arm utilizing waypoint navigation.
US09069060B1
A circuit architecture for a sensing component of a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device can provide a wide dynamic range. The circuit architecture includes at least one photosensor, each photosensor including an input that is configured to receive an optical signal; a respective diode corresponding to each photosensor, each respective diode including an input that is coupled to an output of the corresponding photosensor; a multiplexer including an input that is coupled to the output of each of the at least one photosensors; and an amplifier including an input that is coupled to the output of the multiplexer.
US09069059B2
A concealed light detection and ranging system (LIDAR) for detecting, confusing, and jamming external laser, radar, infrared and other varieties of velocity and position detectors. The LIDAR mounts in numerous different locations on a vehicle such as the brake light, grill, door handle, etc. By utilizing a plethora of locations on the vehicle to receive and transmit light signals, the LIDAR allows generated light pulses to be carried by a network of fiber optic cables to the front, rear, top and sides of the vehicle. This ubiquitous positioning of the LIDAR on the vehicle allows for efficient reception and emission of light pulses to detect and/or, jam LIDAR guns, parking sensors, and proximity sensors without the need for the electronics to be exposed or mounted in the actual reception and transmission locations. When configured to detect lasers, the LIDAR further may include a laser receiver and pulse shaping device.
US09069056B2
A probe defining a transmission line is used with a measurement instrument including a pulse circuit connected to the probe for generating pulses on the transmission line and receiving reflected pulses on the transmission line. The probe comprises an adapter for mounting to a process vessel. A conductive outer sleeve is secured to the adapter. A center conductor is coaxial with the outer sleeve for conducting the pulses. The conductive outer sleeve has a connector end proximate the adapter and a distal end to extend into a processed liquid. The outer sleeve has a geometric discontinuity defining a referenced target producing an impedance change at a position between the adapter and the distal end at a location in a process vapor region above a processed liquid.
US09069035B2
A diode model and conductive-probe measurements taken at the wafer lever are used to predict the characterization parameters of a semiconductor device manufactured from the wafer. A current-voltage curve (I-V) model that expresses a current-voltage relationship as a function of resistance, ideality factor, and reverse saturation current is fitted to a number of conductive-probe measurement data. The current-voltage curve (I-Vd) for the device is then estimated by subtracting from the (I-V) model the product of current times the resistance produced by fitting the (I-V) model.
US09069033B2
A 3-axis magnetic field sensor on a substrate and including, a first tunneling magneto-resistor (TMR) having a first easy-axis for sensing a X-axis magnetic field, a second TMR having a second easy-axis for sensing a Y-axis magnetic field, an out-of-plane magnetic sensor for sensing a Z-axis magnetic field, and a reference unit is provided. The first easy-axis and the second easy-axis are orthogonal and include an angle of 45±5 degrees with a bisection direction, respectively. The out-of-plane magnetic sensor includes a groove or bulge structure having a first incline and a second incline; a third TMR on the first incline having a third easy-axis; a fourth TMR on the second incline having a fourth easy-axis; and a central axis orthogonal to the bisection direction and parallel to the third easy-axis and the fourth easy-axis. The reference unit has a fifth TMR and a fifth easy-axis parallel to the bisection direction.
US09069030B2
Various embodiments for determining a voltage rating of a solenoid in an electropneumatic valve are disclosed. A braking system controller comprises a power switch electrically connected to an associated first solenoid. The power switch provides a low current regulated voltage to the associated first solenoid. The current through the solenoid is converted to a voltage. The voltage is compared to a predetermined voltage range to determine the voltage rating of the associated first solenoid. In another embodiment, the control logic is capable of determining the voltage rating of multiple solenoids in each of the electropneumatic valves connected to the controller.
US09069027B2
A cell voltage monitoring and self-calibrating device for a plurality of battery cells connected in series is disclosed. The device includes a first voltage measurement unit, a second voltage measurement unit, a first compensation unit, a second compensation unit and a calculating unit. It can measure voltages of each cell in a battery pack which provides power to electric equipment and calibrates itself during measurement.
US09069021B2
A device for measuring electrical work includes at least one switchable output configured to connect the device to at least one electrical load. An Internet connection means is configured to establish an Internet connection for the device. A clock is configured to electronically determine a current time for the device. At least one electronic memory is configured to store electronic data. A smartcard comprises an integrated microcontroller. The integrated microcontroller is configured to intelligently control the at least one electronic memory, the Internet connection means, the at least one switchable output, the clock, and the electronic data stored in the at least one electronic memory. A smartcard insertion means is configured to have the smartcard be inserted therein. The electronic data from the at least one electronic memory is transmittable via the Internet connection.
US09069019B2
A ground continuity circuit is described. In one embodiment, a first voltage of a signal associated with an electrical line input to a circuit is measured with respect to a first resistance value of the circuit. A ground continuity test signal is asserted into the circuit that causes the resistance value of the circuit to change to a second resistance value. A second voltage of the signal is measured with respect to the second resistance value. A ground impedance value of the circuit is determined as a function of the first and second measured voltages and the first and second resistance values.
US09069012B2
Provided is a connection terminal that maintains an approximately circular shape before or after a cylindrical part is fixed by resistance welding. The connection terminal used for a connection jig interconnecting target points includes a small-diameter conductive part and a large-diameter cylindrical part disposed to surround the small-diameter conductive part. The small-diameter conductive part has a front end protruding from a front end of the large-diameter cylindrical part. A part of the small-diameter conductive part is joined to a part of the large-diameter cylindrical part. A cutout part is formed in a part of a strip portion around an axis of the cylindrical part that at least includes the portion of the large-diameter cylindrical part which is joined to the small-diameter conductive part.
US09069011B2
Described herein are embodiments of an electrical terminal test point that can be temporarily attached to an electrical terminal (e.g., terminal block) in order to provide an interface between the test leads/jumpers of a test device and the electrical contact points of the electrical terminal. In one aspect, embodiments of the electrical terminal test point provide a shield for the electrical contact points of the electrical terminal (whether or not being used for testing) from inadvertent contact and prevents test leads/jumpers of test device from accidentally falling off or being knocked off of their contact points. Electrical terminal test point can be installed and removed without affecting the electrical connections made by electrical terminal (e.g., without removing terminal screws of electrical terminal).
US09069007B2
An apparatus and technique for extracting information carried in higher eigenmodes or harmonics of an oscillating cantilever or other oscillating sensors in atomic force microscopy and related MEMs work is described.
US09069000B2
A composite sensor for detecting angular velocity and acceleration includes an angular velocity detecting element, an acceleration detecting element, an angular velocity signal processing IC, an acceleration signal processing IC, and a housing. The housing is formed of a multilayered circuit board and accommodates the angular velocity detecting element, the acceleration detecting element, the angular velocity signal processing IC, and the acceleration signal processing IC. The housing connects the angular velocity detecting element electrically to the angular velocity signal processing IC, and also connects the acceleration detecting element electrically to the acceleration signal processing IC.
US09068992B2
The invention provides methods of treating diseases, disorders or injuries involving demyelination and dysmyelination, including multiple sclerosis, by the administration of an Sp35 antagonist.
US09068989B2
The present invention relates generally to a chromogenic compositions and reagents systems and methods therefor.
US09068985B2
Latent fluorescent tags, including compounds of Formula I, methods of making latent fluorescent tags, and methods of fluorescently labeling living cells are provided. The compounds of Formula I have the structure: wherein each of the variables are as defined herein.
US09068983B2
The present invention relates to methods of using a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) to screen one or more candidate compounds as a modulator of body mass or of adiposity or of percentage body fat in a subject or as a pharmaceutical agent for obesity and conditions related thereto. Inverse agonists and antagonists of the invention are useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of obesity and conditions related thereto, including hypertension, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Agonists and partial agonists of the invention are useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of disorders ameliorated by increasing body mass including, but not limited to, cachexia.
US09068981B2
A lateral flow device may include one or more enhancement elements, where the enhancement elements bind to the analyte sandwich to increase a detection signal in the test zone. In preferred embodiments, some or all of the enhancement elements are encapsulated.
US09068979B2
A micro bio sensor which detects a microbe existing in a specimen is provided. The microbial sensor includes a base, a detector formed on the base, and a reaction layer formed on the detector, wherein the reaction layer is comprised of a self-assembled monolayer which is formed on the detector and an antibiotic which is immobilized through the self-assembled monolayer on the detector. By using the micro bio sensor, it is possible to detect species of the microbe concurrently and improve sensitivity for detecting the species of the microbe. Further, a method for manufacturing such a micro bio sensor is also provided.
US09068957B2
Methods of evaluating heparin preparations, e.g., for suitability for use as a drug or for use in making a drug, by determining the absence, presence or amount of a structural signature, wherein, e.g., the structural signature is indicative of the methods used to make the heparin preparation.
US09068956B2
A specimen analyzing apparatus comprising: a detector for detecting component information regarding a component in a specimen contained in each of analyzing containers, the analyzing containers comprising first and second analyzing containers; an analyzing part for analyzing the component information detected by the detector; a transporting device for transporting specimen containers each containing a specimen, the specimen containers comprising first and second specimen containers; an operation mode selector for selecting one of a first operation mode and a second operation mode; a first supplying device for supplying the specimen of a first amount; a second supplying device for supplying the specimen of a second amount greater than the first amount; and a supply controller for controlling the first and second supplying devices in accordance with an operation mode selected by the operation mode selector, is disclosed. A specimen analyzing method is also disclosed.
US09068950B2
Quantifying a refractive index of a test medium by obtaining spectral data representative for an optical signal being modulated with an optical transfer characteristics of a photonic sensor, the modulation being obtained by combining modulation of a first electromagnetic wave component in an optical filter element with a first periodic transfer spectrum having a first free spectral range and modulation of a second electromagnetic wave component in an optical filter element with a second periodic transfer spectrum having a second free spectral range being different from the first free spectral range. A relative is change induced in the second periodic transfer spectrum by bringing the test medium in proximity with the optical filter element with the second periodic transfer spectrum. The refractive index of the test medium is quantified by determining a wavelength offset of an envelope signal in said spectral data.
US09068949B2
A system for measuring an sample includes an illumination source providing electromagnetic radiation pulses at a selected temporal frequency. A microscope focuses the radiation to interact with the sample and produce resultant electromagnetic radiation. A disperser disperses wavelengths of the resultant radiation onto optical sensors, and respective resonant amplifiers amplify signals having the selected temporal frequency. Optical detection apparatus includes the optical sensors, resonant amplifiers, and disperser. The resonant amplifiers amplify portion(s) of their inputs having a selected temporal frequency and attenuate other portion(s). A method of analyzing constituents of a sample includes contemporaneously irradiating the sample with narrowband light and broadband light, the optical power of either modulated at a selected temporal frequency; dispersing wavelengths of resultant light across the optical detectors; and filtering respective signals from the optical detectors to provide spectrum data including signals corresponding to the selected temporal frequency.
US09068946B2
A fine particle measuring apparatus is provided. The fine particle measuring apparatus includes a detection unit configured to detect light emitted from a fine particle and a processing unit having a memory device storing instructions which when executed by the processing unit, cause the processing unit to calculate a corrected intensity value of the detected light and generate spectrum data based on the corrected intensity value.
US09068941B2
This disclosure relates to a dye solution monitoring device and a dye solution controlling device for a dye-sensitized solar cell, more particularly, to a dye solution monitoring device for a dye-sensitized solar cell comprising a light-absorption device for measuring absorbance of a dye solution for a dye-sensitized solar cell, and a pH measuring device for measuring pH of a dye solution for a dye-sensitized solar cell; and, a dye solution controlling device for a dye-sensitized solar cell further comprising a dye supply device supplying dye of high concentration, and an acid or base supply device for pH control, in addition to the monitoring device.According to the present invention, a dye adsorption process may be optimized in real time to manufacture a solar cell of high quality with high productivity, maximize utilization of expensive dye, and minimize the waste, thereby reducing production cost.
US09068940B2
An apparatus and method for differential optical dispersion using a first sample and a second sample are disclosed. The apparatus includes a single frequency chirped laser source configured to generate a single frequency chirped laser beam. A first beam splitter is configured to split the single frequency chirped laser beam into first and second optical branches, the first sample being located in the first optical branch, the second sample being located in the second optical branch. A frequency shifter is located in the second optical branch, downstream of the second sample. A second beam splitter is configured to combine the first and second optical branches and generate a chirp-modulated mixed light beam. A square law detector is configured to detect the chirp-modulated mixed light beam and generate a heterodyne beatnote signal. A demodulator is configured for detection of the heterodyne beatnote signal to generate a transmission/differential optical dispersion spectrum.
US09068932B2
A spectrophotometer has a specimen cell; a light source unit for emitting light to the specimen cell; a photodetector for detecting the light that passed through the specimen cell; a light-shielding unit for blocking the light from impinging on the photodetector at predetermined periods; a memory unit for storing output strength signals detected by the photodetector; and a controller for calculating transmittance or absorbance based on output strength signal S of the incidence duration and output strength signal DS of the light-blocked duration stored in the memory unit. The incidence duration and light-blocked duration occur in this sequence in a single period. The controller calculates the true output strength signal sN of the Nth period removed of the effects of output strength signal SN−1 of the incidence duration of the (N−1)th period that are included in the output strength signal SN of the incidence duration of the Nth period.
US09068930B2
Disclosed herein is an analysis device for use with an external testing apparatus to detect the presence of an analyte in a test sample. The device comprises a transducer formed of a layer of pyroelectric or piezoelectric material sandwiched between first and second electrode layers, the transducer being arranged to produce an electrical voltage across the electrode layers in response to heating or straining of the pyroelectric or piezoelectric material layer. The device also comprises first and second stiffening elements for the transducer, the transducer being sandwiched between the stiffening elements. Each of the stiffening elements defines a planar surface for maintaining the transducer in a flat condition. Each of the stiffening elements exposes a portion of a respective electrode layer of the transducer for electrically connecting the transducer to the external text apparatus. The exposed portions are laterally offset from each other such that the exposed portions are each supported across the whole of their area by the stiffening element on the opposite side of the transducer. It has been found that such an arrangement may reduce noise caused by environmental effects.
US09068928B2
Snapshot imaging polarimeters comprise Sagnac interferometers that include diffraction gratings situated to produce shear between counter-propagating optical fluxes produced by a polarizing beam splitter. The counter-propagating, sheared optical fluxes are focused onto a focal plane array to produce fringe patterns. The fringe patterns correspond to a scene polarization distribution modulated onto a spatial carrier frequency associated with a diffraction order. Multi-blazed gratings can be used so that modulations at a plurality of spatial frequencies are produced, with each spatial frequency corresponding to a spectral component of an input optical flux. Modulated fringe patterns can be demodulated to obtain scene Stokes parameter distributions.
US09068922B2
A coolant conductivity method and apparatus used to determine when a coolant, circulating through a vehicle's coolant system, starts to conduct electrical current and loses its electrical isolation properties. The system includes a battery monitor controller senses one or more isolation resistances placed throughout a fuel cell system and is programmed to run an isolation algorithm. The isolation algorithm opens and closes contactors in a specific order, measures the resistance of the one or more isolation resistances and calculates a coolant conductivity value. The system will indicate when the coolant needs to be replaced.
US09068917B1
Systems and methods for inspection of a specimen are provided. One system includes an illumination subsystem configured to illuminate the specimen by scanning a spot across the specimen. The system also includes a non-imaging detection subsystem configured to generate output signals responsive to light specularly reflected from the spot scanned across the specimen. In addition, the system includes a processor configured to generate images of the specimen using the output signals and to detect defects on the specimen using the images. In one embodiment, the non-imaging detection subsystem includes an objective and a detector. An NA of the objective does not match a pixel size of the detector. In another embodiment, the non-imaging detection subsystem includes an objective having an NA of greater than about 0.05. The system may be configured for multi-spot illumination and multi-channel detection. Alternatively, the system may be configured for single spot illumination and multi-channel detection.
US09068907B1
A method can be used to determine the total residual gas volume in a cylinder when the piston of an internal combustion engine is at the bottom dead center (BDC) position. The method includes: (a) measuring an intake manifold pressure and an exhaust manifold pressure; (b) determining a residual gas volume in the at least one cylinder originating from a current engine cycle; (c) determining a residual gas volume in the at least one intake port originating from at least one previous engine cycle; and (d) determining a total residual gas volume when the piston is at a BDC position based, at least in part, on the residual gas volume in the at least one cylinder originating from the current engine cycle and the residual gas volume in the at least one cylinder originating from at least one previous engine cycle.
US09068901B1
Various examples of systems for powering a linear motor with a multi-phase amplifier are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a plurality of current sources for supplying power to an electronic device. The plurality of current sources are configured to supply a substantially constant direct current to a load, and each of the plurality of current sources is configured to supply a periodic alternating current that is out of phase relative to the periodic alternating current of one or more of the other current sources. A sum of the periodic alternating currents from the plurality of current sources is configured to provide the substantially constant direct current. Embodiments of the systems can be used in vibration testing equipment such as electro-dynamic shakers.
US09068898B2
A thermometer includes first and second surface temperature measurement units, first and second reference temperature measurement units, a storage unit, a temperature correction unit, and a temperature calculation unit. The first reference temperature measurement unit measures a temperature at an opposite side of the first surface temperature measurement unit as a first reference temperature through a first heat insulating portion having a first thermal resistance value. The second reference temperature measurement unit measures a temperature at an opposite side of the second surface temperature measurement unit as a second reference temperature through a second heat insulating portion having a second thermal resistance value. The temperature correction unit corrects the first surface temperature and the first reference temperature based on the second surface temperature and the second reference temperature. The temperature calculation unit calculates a core temperature using the first surface temperature and the first reference temperature.
US09068896B2
The inventive concept discloses a new temperature sensor structure based on oscillator which is insensitive to a process change and improves an error rate of temperature output. The temperature sensor based on oscillator compares an oscillator circuit structure insensitive to a temperature change with an oscillator circuit structure having a frequency change in proportion to a temperature change to output a relative difference between the two oscillator circuit structures and thereby it is compensated itself. In the temperature sensor based on oscillator, a problem of performance reduction due to an external environment and a process deviation of temperature sensor is improved and an output distortion and temperature nonlinearity are effectively improved. Thus, since the temperature sensor based on oscillator has a structure of high performance, low power and low cost, it can be variously used in a detection equipment of temperature environment.
US09068889B2
The present invention relates to a method and optical device for Raman spectroscopy and for observing a sample, said device including an optical means for superimposing an excitation laser beam having a spectral band B0 and an observation beam having a spectral band BV so as to form a combined excitation and observation incident beam, and an optical separation means arranged in the path of a collected beam coming from scattering on the sample and including a first filtering means, a second filtering means capable of spatially separating said collected beam into a first secondary beam and two tertiary beams, each of which includes a spectral band selected from the spectral band B0 of the laser, the spectral band BV of the observation beam, and the spectral band BR of the Raman scattering beam, respectively.
US09068880B2
An apparatus and method for a monitoring system for operating equipment is provided. The monitoring system includes a first sensor having first operating parameters. A first printed circuit board includes an electrical circuit and signal processing hardware. A first sensor is in electrical communication with a second printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board includes signal processing hardware configured to process the signal. The second printed circuit board is in electrical communication with the first printed circuit board through a connector. The connector is configured to permit insertion and removal of a third printed circuit board to operate a second sensor having second operating parameters that differ from the first operating parameters of the first sensor. In another aspect, the first printed circuit board includes no processing circuit, the first printed circuit board includes an analog-to-digital hardware circuit, processor, controller or microprocessor and an output circuit.
US09068872B2
A method of and apparatus for monitoring fluid flow passing within a pipe is provided. The method includes the steps of: a) providing a flow pressure value and a flow temperature value for the fluid flow within the pipe; b) providing a fluid flowmeter operable to be attached to an exterior of the pipe; c) providing a processor adapted to include an equation of state model for the pressure, volume, and temperature properties for the fluid flow, and further adapted to receive composition data values for the fluid flow, the flow pressure value, and the flow temperature value, and the flow velocity signals from the flowmeter; and d) determining a volumetric flow rate of one or more phases of the fluid flow.
US09068870B2
Apparatus and method for ultrasonic flow metering of viscous fluids. In one embodiment, an ultrasonic flow metering system includes an ultrasonic flow meter, a flow conditioner, and a reducer. The ultrasonic flow meter includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers arranged to exchange ultrasonic signals through a fluid stream flowing between the transducers. The flow conditioner is disposed upstream of the ultrasonic flow meter. The reducer is disposed between the flow conditioner and the ultrasonic flow meter to reduce the cross sectional area of the fluid stream flowing from the flow conditioner to the ultrasonic flow meter.
US09068853B2
A navigation system (NS) may include a processor that can retrieve geographic map data from a database, where the geographic map data includes polygonal chains. The processor can determine a straightness value, a length ratio, and/or an angle-to-length ratio for each of the polygonal chains based on segments and/or vertices of the polygonal chain. Also, a first class and a second class of the polygonal chains can be determined based on one or more of the three determined values for each of the polygonal chains. The first class may represent roads that are less winding than the second class, and such an attribute may be beneficial in selecting an optimal route.
US09068850B2
An apparatus includes a memory and a processor. The memory can store a first address and a longitude, latitude, and altitude associated with the first address. The processor can receive a second address and determine that a user device associated with the second address is not located at the second address. In response to the determination that the user device is not located at the second address, the processor can approximate the geocoordinates of the second address based at least in part upon the longitude, latitude, and altitude associated with the first address.
US09068848B2
A method and device for providing cost information associated with intersections of a road network are provided. Driving data indicative of at least one condition of a vehicle upon passage of the vehicle through a plurality of intersections are retrieved. For each intersection of the plurality of intersections, a set of feature values associated with the respective intersections is determined based on map data. Parameters of an intersection cost module are adjusted. The intersection cost module is configured to provide a cost value in response to a set of feature values associated with an intersection. The parameters of the intersection cost module are adjusted based on the received driving data and the sets of feature values determined for the plurality of intersections. The intersection cost module may also be used for route searches.
US09068847B2
A system and method for collaborative navigation is provided. The system comprises a first mobile unit, at least one inertial measurement unit on the first mobile unit, and at least one environment sensor on the first mobile unit. A navigator module in the first mobile unit is configured to receive inertial data from the inertial measurement unit. An object characterization module is configured to receive sensor data from the environment sensor and a navigation solution from the navigator module. A common object geo-locator module is configured to receive a first set of descriptors from the object characterization module and a second set of descriptors from another mobile unit. A data association module is configured to receive common descriptors from the common object geo-locator module. The first mobile unit is configured to operatively communicate with one or more additional mobile units that are configured for collaborative navigation with the first mobile unit.
US09068844B2
A method and apparatus to provide a global positioning system receiver is described. The Personal navigation system includes at least one motion sensor, the motion sensor capable of identifying a user activity, and distinguishing between walking and driving, or other manual v. mechanical locomotion. The system automatically switches modes to the appropriate format.
US09068826B2
A method for checking a blade contour of a turbomachine, in particular a gas turbine, wherein an actual contour (1; 1′) of a blade is detected, wherein a target contour of the blade is scaled and the actual contour is compared with said scaled contour (2).
US09068825B2
In a first optical measurement device, light which is output from a light source is subject to linear polarizing in a polarizing unit, and is input to a test object A. Transmitted light which has passed through the test object A is orthogonally separated in an orthogonal separation unit, and the light which is orthogonally separated in the orthogonal separation. unit is received in two light receiving units. In addition, amount of light of the transmitted light is determined by a control unit, and a difference between received light levels which are received in the light receiving unit is normalized using the amount of light which is determined in a transmitted amount of light determination unit, and then the angle of optical rotation is calculated by the angle of optical rotation calculation unit.
US09068824B2
An endoscope having two entry lenses, which are arranged spaced from each other and the fields of view of which overlap, and having guiding devices. The entry lenses are spaced so far apart from each other that the outer edges thereof protrude beyond the cross-sectional area of the guiding devices, and a lens displacing the axis beam is inserted between one entry lens and the guiding devices. A method for the use of the endoscope.
US09068823B2
A method for imaging an object using a microscope includes obtaining axial response data, the axial response data representative of a relationship between a separation between a top surface of the object and an objective lens of the microscope and an intensity of light reflected by the top surface of the object; positioning the object at a distance from the objective lens that is within a linear region of the axial response data; sequentially illuminating the object with a plurality of periodic patterns; obtaining a plurality of images of the object, each image resulting from the illumination of the object with a corresponding one of the plurality of periodic patterns; determining a reconstructed image of the object based on the plurality of images of the object; and, based on variations in the intensity of the reconstructed image, determining a topographic profile of the top surface of the object.
US09068817B2
A permanent magnet 60 for biasing is placed between opposite surfaces of a second stationary magnetic body 20 and a third stationary magnetic body 30, and a range in magnetic flux density detected by a magnetic sensor 50 is changed to thus include zero in the magnetic flux density. A correction and an adjustment of a temperature characteristic and so on of the magnetic sensor 50 are performed in a state of zero in the magnetic flux density.
US09068816B2
A non-contact object detection system includes a capacitor sensor and a control system, the control system providing a AES (Adaptive Excitation Signal) to the capacitor sensor, the AES (Adaptive Excitation Signal) configured according to an environment in which the capacitor sensor is deployed, the AES (Adaptive Excitation Signal) configured to produce a threshold voltage from the capacitor sensor to the control system in the environment when an object is not in a detection area of the capacitor sensor.
US09068814B2
A method monitors a change in thickness of a conductive film brought into sliding contact with a polishing surface of a polishing pad using an eddy current sensor. The output signal of the eddy current sensor includes two signals corresponding to a resistance component and an inductive reactance component of an impedance of an electric circuit including a coil of the eddy current sensor. The method includes acquiring the output signal of the eddy current sensor when the eddy current sensor is facing the conductive film, defining the two signals as coordinates on a coordinate system, repeating the acquiring of the output signal and the defining of the coordinates, determining a center of curvature of an arc specified by at least three sets of coordinates on the coordinate system, determining an angle of inclination of a line connecting the center of curvature and a latest one of the at least three sets of coordinates, and monitoring a change in thickness of the conductive film by monitoring a change in the angle of inclination.
US09068811B2
A device for interferometrically determining the distance between two plates disposed substantially in parallel, includes a light source, beam-splitter element(s), reflector element(s), deflection elements, retroreflectors, and a detection unit. A beam of rays emitted by the light source falls on the first plate and splits into a reflected reference beam of rays and a transmitted measuring beam of rays. The measuring beam strikes a reflector on the second plate and undergoes a first reflection back toward the first plate. The reference beam traverses a first deflection element, and the measuring beam traverses a second deflection element. Both beams pass through a retroreflector. The reference beam is reflected at the first plate, and the measuring beam undergoes a second reflection at a reflector of the second plate, so that both beams propagate collinearly interferingly toward the detection unit, where a plurality of phase-shifted distance signals are generated.
US09068805B2
An Arrow modification and fletching system wherein an adapter is used to modify modern hollow carbon arrows creating a fletched end module for the purpose of facilitating arrow modification and fletch repair and replacement.
US09068801B1
The present invention relates to an optics assembly having a platform and removable and interchangeable modules, and in particular to an optics assembly for a Kalashnikov style firearm. In one embodiment, the assembly has two ends with a longitudinal axis there between. The base replaces the rear sight tower of the Kalashnikov style firearm. The base has a platform with edges overhanging relieved areas or slots. The base has a head with holes there through. Modules can be removably received upon the base. Each module has at least one mount for supporting an optic. Each module has ears that straddle the base head. The ears have holes that are alignable with the head holes for receiving a pin. The modules have ribs that are received within slots in the base as the module is slid along the longitudinal axis relative the base.
US09068795B2
A digital rangefinder system indicates to a user a projectile trajectory to a target. The digital rangefinder system comprises a computing element, digital display, a memory, a range sensor, a tilt sensor in a housing. Embodiments include a digital camera, a high-resolution digital display, and GPS. Embodiments may comprise mobile smart phones with removable range sensors, handheld digital rangefinder devices, weapon mounted scopes, or simulation games. The system is capable of dynamically displaying an aiming point and adjusting for wind drift. The system may capture images and videos, create animations, and upload them to the Internet. The system may visually highlight obstacles or objects having a predetermined distance. A method aspect is calibrating the system to an individual bow having a bow sight.
US09068792B2
A projectile launching device such as a paintball gun capable of firing a paintball using a hammer is disclosed. The paintball gun, in one embodiment, includes a bolt, a valve, and a hammer wherein the bolt has an air channel and is able to move within a bolt chamber. The valve, which is situated in a firing control chamber arranged in parallel to the bolt chamber, controls pressurized gas. The hammer, in one aspect, includes a pivot hole capable of hosting a pivot pin which facilitates a swing motion for the hammer. When the hammer swings around the pivot hole, the hammer contacts the valve whereby a portion of the pressurized gas is release. The bolt further includes a hammer reset element which is able to reset the hammer to a ready for firing position during a launch process.
US09068786B2
A combination metal/polymer upper receiver for use in a rifle, with the upper receiver attachable to a lower receiver and to a barrel. The upper receiver comprises a polymeric upper receiver housing defining a chamber. The polymeric upper receiver housing is adapted to engage with mounting features on the lower receiver to attach a lower receiver to the upper receiver at a first connection. A metal insert is secured within the polymeric upper receiver housing and is adapted to engage the barrel. The metal insert further includes an extended member embedded within the polymeric upper receiver housing such that the extended member receives the impact from a bolt carrier group residing within the chamber. An optional metal gas tube channel is located along an upper internal surface of the polymeric upper receiver housing and extends the length of the polymeric upper receiver housing.
US09068785B2
A chamber status indicator for a firearm such as a handgun, rifle, or shotgun is disclosed. The chamber status indicator comprises a self-illuminating substance such as a gaseous tritium light source or self-illuminating paint, wherein light from the self-illuminating substance is visible only when a cartridge is loaded in the chamber. The self-illuminating substance can be mounted in a mechanical chamber status indicator. The self-illuminating substance can be mounted in a wall of the chamber. The self-illuminating substance can be mounted in a cartridge extractor. The self-illuminating substance can be affixed to or integrated into a bolt, breech or slide of the firearm. The self-illuminating substance can be integrated into a cylinder containing multiple chambers.
US09068767B2
A hot water heater, particularly but not exclusively for domestic use, is herein described and having removably secured thereto a modular heat exchanger or an external water heater to heat the water in a separate tank portion. The two are easily separable from one another for service, repair or interchange. The air-to-air heat exchanger extracts heat loss from the central flue of a gas fired water heater to provide a source of heat for the building in which the hot water heater is installed. The external water heater is provided with a gas-fired burner for heating water from the tank circulated in a heat exchanger to transfer heat from a fluid heated by the burner and circulated in the heat exchanger to transfer the heat to water circulated from the water tank.
US09068753B2
Door for a domestic appliance, in particular an oven door, having a front glass (10; 40) and a handle (12; 42) for opening and closing the door, wherein the handle (12; 42) is attached to the front glass (10; 40) by means of an adhesive without any additional fixing means.
US09068745B2
Methods and systems for reducing mercury emissions are provided herein. The methods, generally, include the steps of burning a heavy metal containing fuel source and introducing sorbent materials and introducing one or more halogen compounds into the combustion chamber and/or exhaust stream to remove the heavy metal.
US09068742B2
The present invention discloses a burner for a scrubber comprising a housing including a combustion zone to which waste gas is entered, the combustion zone having an internal central region and an opened lower portion, the housing including a mixing zone for mixing an oxidizer and fuel entered thereinto, the mixing zone being disposed along an outer side of the combustion zone and formed into a ring shape; and a metal cartridge disposed between the combustion zone and the mixing zone and provided with apertures for supplying the oxidizer and fuel mixed in the mixing zone to the combustion zone.
US09068735B2
A magnetic retainer includes a body, a magnetic member, a plate and a light unit. The body has a space for receiving objects and the magnetic member is connected to the bottom of the body to attract the objects. The plate has a concaved portion for receiving the objects and is rotatably connected to the body. When the light unit is rotated to a first position relative to the plate, the light emitting member faces outside of the plate. When the light unit is rotated to a second position relative to the plate, the light emitting member faces the concaved portion of the plate.
US09068734B2
A sound adapting luminaire produces an amount of cooling output that depends on the ambient sound. When the ambient sound is high, the lamp is cooled more aggressively, since more fan noise is acceptable.
US09068721B2
An illumination optical system for an image pickup apparatus includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a circular loop pattern and a prism plate shaped like a circular loop. the prism plate includes a prism surface at which illumination light from the light sources enters and on which a plurality of prism columns arranged in a circular loop pattern in a circumference direction of the prism plate are formed and an outgoing surface from which the illumination light is emitted. the prism surface includes a flat portion on at least one of a peak formed by each of the plurality of prism columns and a trough formed between the plurality of prism columns. the flat portion is substantially parallel to a tangential direction of the prism plate.
US09068718B2
A remote phosphor light which simulates the spectrum of a specified real world light, e.g. a tungsten or a daylight bulb.
US09068711B2
A headlamp apparatus for a vehicle which produces a glare-free high beam may include a light source including a plurality of chips which may be arranged in line, and each of which may be separately turned on or off, a condenser lens disposed in front of the light source, and configured to improve light efficiency by condensing light emitted from the light source, a beam pattern conversion lens disposed in front of the condenser lens and configured to increase a size of a beam pattern of the light source in a vertical direction, and an optical refractive lens disposed in front of the beam pattern conversion lens, the optical refractive lens projecting the light that has passed through the beam pattern conversion lens onto a road by imaging the light onto a screen.
US09068707B1
A method, system and apparatus including a compact LED light source module comprising a base adapted to mount to a surface or in a fixture; one or more LEDs mounted to an LED mounting interface on the base, the LED mounting interface having a pre-designed geometry related to a pre-designed primary orientation of each LED relative the base; a light transmissive cover over the one or more LEDs, the light transmissive cover having the ability, if needed, to further alter or control the light output distribution of the one or more LEDs; to provide a compact LED light source that can be both substantially standardized but can produce a variety of light output distributions.
US09068701B2
LED based lamps and bulbs are disclosed that comprise an elevating element to arrange LEDs above the lamp or bulb base. The elevating element can at least partially comprise a thermally conductive material. A heat sink structure is included, with the elevating element thermally coupled to the heat sink structure. A diffuser can be arranged in relation to the LEDs so that at least some light from the LEDs passes through the diffuser and is dispersed into the desired emission pattern. In some lamps and bulbs utilize a heat pipe for the elevating elements, with heat from the LEDs conducting through the heat pipe to the heat sink structure where it can dissipate in the ambient.
US09068698B2
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for processing leaking carbon dioxide, which is provided to a transfer line composed of pipes connected from a carbon dioxide generation facility to a carbon dioxide reservoir to process the leakage of carbon dioxide, including: a box-shaped shield case provided to cover a connection part of the pipes constituting the transfer line to prevent carbon dioxide leaking from the connection part from diffusing; and a bypasser bypassing the carbon dioxide into the shield case to the outside of the shield and storing this carbon dioxide. The apparatus is advantageous in that the diffusion of the carbon dioxide leaking from the connection part of the transfer line is blocked by the shield case, and simultaneously is supplied to the collection tank and stored therein by the bypasser, thereby preventing the leaking carbon dioxide from diffusing.
US09068688B2
A hanger arrangement is disclosed to support an object in the corner of a room. It includes a bracket with a corner portion to form to the walls of the inside corner of a room. The bracket includes a cantilever portion to support the object. The joint angle between the cantilever portion and corner portion is between 45 and 82 degrees. Additional embodiments are disclosed related to the L-shaped profile of the cantilever and its hook adaptations to hold the object.
US09068679B2
Providing a fluid coupling, in which a coupling member is readily retained by a retainer and the retainer can be readily attached to or detached from the coupling member, and a retainer for such a fluid coupling. A retainer includes an annular gasket retaining portion for retaining a gasket therein and an annular coupling member retaining portion which has an inner diameter greater than that of the gasket retaining portion and retains one coupling member. At an inner circumference of the gasket retaining portion and an inner circumference of the coupling member retaining portion are formed annular grooves respectively, for holding therein elastic rings respectively.
US09068677B2
A joint device for a corrugated pipe. A socket pipe in which a packing is forcedly inserted is joined to a non-corrugated part of the corrugated pipe and the non-corrugated part is expanded at the position of the packing. The joint device has a guide groove formed on the outer circumference of the socket pipe, a connector fit to the socket pipe, and a movable bolt screw-coupled to the outer face of the socket pipe and forcedly joined to the guide groove, so as to freely rotate the connector independently from the corrugated pipe.
US09068669B2
A flow control system includes a pilot driven valve having a pilot assembly and a main valve assembly; a displacement measurement component coupled to the main valve assembly indicating displacement of the main valve assembly; and a proportional solenoid responsive to a signal from the displacement measurement component that displaces the pilot assembly in proportion to the changes in displacement of the main valve assembly. The valve is controlled by sensing a displacement of the main valve assembly; and modulating the proportional solenoid in response to the displacement of the main valve assembly.
US09068668B2
A linear actuated valve controls the flow of fluid between a first passageway and a second passageway. The valve can be solenoid actuated so as to selectively permit and prohibit fluid flow communication between the first passageway and the second passageway. The valve can include a mechanical latch that provides a de-energized yet valve open position.
US09068660B2
A valve device having at least one inflow area and first and second outflow areas, which are connected with one another with regard to the flow through two poppet valves. Through the first poppet valve, a fluid inflow from the inflow area to the first and second outflow areas can be adjusted and a fluid outflow, through the second poppet valve between the first and the second outflow areas can be adjusted. The second poppet valve is designed as a cone poppet valve with a cone shaped closure body. Located upstream of the second poppet valve, between the first and the second outflow area, is a flow guide device which is designed to provide the fluid, which flows in the direction of the second poppet valve, with a swirl. The closure body of the second poppet valve has a cone angle of 60°+/−10°.
US09068646B2
A driven hatch arrangement is provided, particularly a rear hatch arrangement, for a motor vehicle with a hatch and with a hatch drive for opening and/or closing the hatch, with the hatch drive comprising a motor with a motor shaft and a motor pinion and at least one planetary gear with a sun gear, planetary carriers with planetary rolling elements arranged on bearing pins, and an annulus, with the sun wheel of the planetary gear being formed by the motor pinion and a driven shaft being driven via the planetary gear, in which the driven shaft is embodied in one piece with a planetary carrier including the bearing pins for planetary rolling elements.
US09068643B2
A hydraulic pump housing comprises passages formed in an inner wall separating the gear cavity and the pump cavity to allow for the movement of fluid into and out of the gear cavity, thereby alleviating some of the power loss caused by churning lubricating oil. The hydraulic pump may comprise spaces integrally formed in axially opposing surfaces of the gear cavity walls adjacent the area where the gears mesh to enable the churning oil to expand and flow around the gears.
US09068641B2
A gearbox comprises a gearbox housing containing a gear train whose shafts are supported by the housing. The housing is fastened to a mounting plate at exactly three mounting points. A number of features cooperate with this three mounting point structure to reduce distortion of the housing that may cause misalignment of individual meshing gears in the gear train, leading to premature failure of those gears transmitting high torque.
US09068630B2
A family of transmission gearing arrangements produces up to nine forward and one reverse speed ratios by selective engagement of three couplers in various combinations. Each disclosed transmission includes four planetary gear sets and six couplers. Three of the couplers may be brakes. Three of the couplers may selectively couple planetary elements to the input shaft.
US09068629B2
A fan gear drive system includes a fan shaft, a turbine shaft, a fixed structure, and a gear train which includes a torque frame that comprises a base with integrated gear shafts that are circumferentially spaced relative to one another. Each shaft provides a shaft axis. Intermediate gears are supported on each bearing assembly for rotation about the bearing axis. A central gear is located radially inward from and intermeshes with the intermediate gears. A ring gear is arranged about and intermeshes with the intermediate gears. One of the torque frame, central gear and ring gear is connected to the fan shaft. Another of the torque frame, central gear and ring gear is connected to the turbine shaft. The remaining of the torque frame, central gear and ring gear is connected to the fixed structure. A bearing assembly is mounted on each of the gear shafts and provides a bearing axis. Each bearing assembly supports the respective intermediate gear.
US09068627B2
A dual clutch transmission for a motor vehicle which comprises at least two transmission parts and each transmission part comprise at least one input shaft. Drive is outputted from the transmission parts via a common output shaft. The at least one input shaft is arranged on a main axis and the output shaft is arranged on the main axis or a parallel secondary axis. An intermediate transmission has at least one countershaft that is arranged on the secondary axis. At least one of the input shafts can be connected to the output shaft via at least two gear planes and/or at least one shifting element. At least three shifting mechanisms are provided and at least one shifting mechanism is arranged on each of the main and the secondary axes such that one of the at least two gear planes is arranged between two of the at least three shifting mechanisms.
US09068624B2
A torsion damping device (10), in particular for a motor vehicle transmission, wherein the damping device (10) comprises at least two pendulum oscillators, a first washer (24A) having at least one first pendulum oscillator (P1) and a second washer (24B) having at least one second pendulum oscillator (P2).
US09068618B2
A piston assembly of a shock absorber is provided. A compression retainer and a rebound retainer are disposed above and under a piston body. A blow-off reducing unit is disposed between the compression retainer and an auxiliary valve and on a bottom surface of the auxiliary valve to form a plurality of blow-off points, so that a rapid variation in a damping force can be considerably reduced even in a low-speed and middle-speed transition period.
US09068599B2
An all-graphite interferometer bearing assembly is introduced that allows the movement of a movable mirror in a Michelson interferometer without degradation during use. The assembly includes a stationary hollow graphite tube and a movable assembly which includes a mirror and a monolithic graphite member slidably disposed within the bore of the graphite tube that is composed of the same grade of graphite material as the monolithic graphite member. The result is a robust novel moving mirror arrangement in a Michelson interferometer that enables precise mirror alignment control, a long stroke length, excellent vibration damping and reduced sensitivity to external vibrations.
US09068595B2
The machine includes a forming spindle around which one or more strips of web material are wound; a winding unit to wind the strips of web material around the forming spindle and form therewith a tubular article; and a cutting unit to cut the tubular article into single tubes. The machine also includes at least one magnetic device to support the forming spindle to reduce the flexural deformations thereof.
US09068592B2
A rotary mechanism for incrementally advancing a rotary element (13) with respect to a ground member (12) comprises a unidirectional clutch (41) and a rotary actuator (21, 33, 39). Actuation of the actuator is against a resilient bias (34), and overcomes friction between the rotary element and the ground member to advance the rotary element with the unidirectional clutch locked. Release of the actuator allows re-setting thereof by the resilient bias, the friction between the rotary element and the ground member resisting further relative movement.
US09068590B2
A rolling bearing assembly device comprising an outer race, an inner race, a row of rolling elements arranged between the outer and inner races, a sleeve mounted in the bore of the inner race, and an elastic preload element capable of applying an axial preload transmitted to the inner race. The elastic preload element is mounted in direct contact with an annular axial centering portion and bearing axially over its entire periphery against a radial bearing flange extending radially from the axial centering portion towards the outside of the device.
US09068581B2
Building or structural panels may be joined, such as to form walls or floors. The panels may be connected in various orientations via one or more connectors. The connectors may mount to anchors associated with the panels. The panels may have outer skins located over an expanded core comprising a matrix of supporting elongate members and voids or openings, with the anchors located at edges of the panels.
US09068580B2
A venting device for a hydraulic control unit, designed as a diaphragm in a bore in the control unit, so that collected air can escape, via the diaphragm, to outside the housing. A membrane, which is permeable to air and oil when under pressure, closes the diaphragm bore with respect to the outside. The housing bore and the diaphragm form an inside space that can be vented, via the membrane. The inside space being delimited, during operation, by the diaphragm and an oil column which passes from the control unit into the housing bore and is continually maintained at a defined pressure at which oil, in the housing bore, either does not pass through the membrane or only a minute amount passes therethrough. The oil column remains in the housing bore so that only air, contained in the oil, is vented to the outside without any air being drawn into the control unit from outside.
US09068578B2
A hydraulic system hydraulic system includes a variable displacement pump, and a variable displacement first travel motor selectively fluidly connected to the pump in a closed-loop manner. The system also includes a first switching valve associated with the first travel motor and configured to selectively switch a flow direction of fluid passing through the first travel motor from the pump. The system further includes a variable displacement second travel motor selectively fluidly connected to the pump in a closed-loop manner. The system also includes a second switching valve associated with the second travel motor and configured to selectively switch a flow direction of fluid passing through the second travel motor from the pump.
US09068576B2
There is disclosed a device for orienting an object according to a given spatial orientation. The device comprises a frame and a supporting member connected to the frame and adapted for supporting at least a portion of the object. The device for orienting an object comprises a plurality of fluid actuated devices for displacing the supporting member with respect to the frame. Each of the fluid actuated devices is actuatable between a first position wherein the device has a first length and a second position wherein the device has a second length. The device for orienting comprises an actuation mechanism comprising a plurality of actuating valves for actuating the corresponding fluid actuated device; wherein an actuation of at least one of the fluid actuated devices enables to displace the supporting member with respect to the frame, thereby orienting the object according to the given spatial orientation. The device for orienting may be of particular interest in the medical sector as a medical object manipulator for reaching a given target in an anatomical structure with a suitable accuracy, for example in the treatment and/or diagnosis of prostate cancer.
US09068561B2
An impact drive type actuator (10) is comprised of a wire-shaped shape memory alloy (11) which contracts upon being electrified and heated, a disk-shaped insulating heat conductor (12) which contacts this wire-shaped shape memory alloy (11) and releases the heat which is generated at the wire-shaped shape memory alloy, and a drive circuit (16, 17) which instantaneously electrifies the wire-shaped shape memory alloy and instantaneously makes the wire-shaped shape memory alloy contract. According to this impact drive type actuator, it realizes a heat conduction structure which gives rise to a high heat dispersion action by the heat characteristics of the shape memory alloy, so it becomes possible to utilize the deformation by extension and contraction of a shape memory alloy which has a wire-shaped form, improve the speed and response of the deformation operation characteristics, and improve practicality.
US09068548B2
Methods and systems are provided for identifying and indicating degradation of an engine cylinder spark plug. In response to a cylinder misfire event during selected engine operating conditions, followed by an occurrence of a threshold number and/or rate of pre-ignition events in the same cylinder, a controller may determine that the spark plug is degraded. The controller may limit combustion in the cylinder in response to the degradation. Additionally, cylinder pre-ignition mitigating steps may be taken.
US09068545B2
In a method for providing in a hand-held power tool electric energy for an engine control unit before start of an internal combustion engine of the power tool that is to be started by a rope starter, a voltage source is provided that generates electric energy electro-dynamically or photovoltaically before starting the internal combustion engine. The thus generated electric energy is stored in a rechargeable energy storage device arranged within the power tool. The electric energy stored in the energy storage device is supplied to the engine control unit upon first rope starter pull for start of the internal combustion engine. The device for performing the method has an electro-dynamic or photovoltaic voltage source and an energy storage device electrically conductingly connected to the voltage source, wherein the energy storage device has an output that is electrically conductingly connected to the engine control unit.
US09068541B2
A fuel injection device for smooth discharge of a gas accumulated therein comprising a fuel pump, a solenoid valve for injecting pressurized fuel into the intake passage of an engine, a high-pressure fuel passage extending from the fuel pump to the solenoid valve and has a medially positioned constant-pressure chamber, and a fuel return passage connected to a fuel return pipe, with the fuel return passage extending from the constant-pressure chamber and having a medially positioned priming pump. The constant-pressure chamber is configured with the top wall in the upper space thereof disposed above the opening of the high-pressure fuel passage opposite the solenoid valve, the fuel return passage opens into the upper space at a position above the opening of the high-pressure fuel passage, and the gas accumulating in the constant-pressure chamber is discharged from the upper space toward the fuel tank via the fuel return passage.
US09068539B2
A fuel injector includes a first check valve member that seats on an injector body, and a second check valve member that seats on the first check valve member covers a first nozzle outlet set when in a closed position. When the first check valve member moves to an open position, gaseous fuel is injected through both a first nozzle outlet set and a second nozzle outlet set. When the second check valve member moves to an open position, liquid fuel moves through a through passage defined by the first check valve member to facilitate injection of the second nozzle outlet set. The first and second check valve members may be controlled by first and second control valves, respectively.
US09068518B2
A vehicle includes an engine having a crankshaft which rotates at an engine speed, a transmission having a rotatable input member, a transmission control module (TC), and an engine control module (ECM) in communication with the TCM. The TCM is programmed to execute a transmission-to-engine speed monitoring and control method which includes transmitting an engine speed request to the ECM which requests a positive increase in the engine speed, and terminating the request when the request is active for more than a first calibrated timeout duration. The TCM also terminates the request when the request is active for more than a second calibrated duration that is less than the first calibrated duration, the transmission is not in neutral, and both a shift of the transmission and an acceleration of the input member are not active.
US09068517B2
An engine control system comprises an air control module and a spark control module. The air control module controls a throttle valve based on a first desired torque when the throttle valve is in an operable state. The spark control module controls spark advance based on the first desired torque and a second desired torque when the throttle valve is in a fault state. The throttle valve is maintained in a predetermined fault position when in the fault state.
US09068514B2
An arrangement for injection of an emulsion of a first fluid and a second fluid into a flame of a burner has a central gas duct, an outer gas channel disposed coaxially with the gas duct, and a fluid channel disposed coaxially between the gas duct and the outer gas channel. The central gas duct and the fluid channel are separated by a first frustoconical wall. The fluid channel and the outer gas channel are separated by a second frustoconical wall. The arrangement is mounted concentrically surrounding a heat source which provides through the gas duct hot gases being directed into the flame of the burner. Further, the arrangement includes a mixing device for forming an emulsion of the first fluid and the second fluid, for supplying the emulsion into the fluid channel and for injecting the emulsion from the fluid channel into the flame.
US09068509B2
A gas turbine engine fuel control system is provided that includes a fuel metering valve and a thrust control valve. The fuel metering valve includes a metering valve inlet and a metering valve outlet. The metering valve inlet is adapted to receive a flow of fuel, and is configured to control the flow of fuel through the metering valve outlet. The thrust control valve is adapted to receive thrust control valve override signals and is configured, in response thereto, to move from a first position, in which flow from the metering valve is not impacted, and a second position, in which flow from the metering valve is blocked while flow through a fixed-area orifice is allowed.
US09068502B2
A system and method for measuring an EGR flow rate for an engine having an EGR valve with a selectable EGR valve position and a venturi sensor situated to take a differential pressure measurement relative to recirculated exhaust gas includes determining an EGR valve effective area based on the EGR valve position, determining a weighting factor based on the effective area, calculating a first EGR flow estimate based on the effective area, and calculating a second EGR flow estimate based on the differential pressure measurement of the venturi sensor. A final EGR flow rate is determined based on the weighting factor, the first EGR flow estimate, and the second EGR flow estimate.
US09068501B2
Methods and systems are provided for a branch communication valve in a twin turbocharger system. A branch communication valve may be positioned adjacent to a dividing wall separating a first scroll and a second scroll of the twin turbocharger. In an open position, the branch communication valve increases fluid communication between the first scroll and the second scroll and in a closed position, the branch communication valve decreases fluid communication between the first scroll and the second scroll.
US09068492B2
A method for responding to conditions detected in an on-board diagnostic unit of a motor vehicle and signaling degradation of a component of the motor vehicle. The method includes providing a first response if the conditions signal degradation of the component due to tampering, and providing a second response if the conditions signal degradation of the component not due to tampering.
US09068486B2
Methods and systems are provided for using a crankcase vent tube pressure or flow sensor for diagnosing a location and nature of crankcase system integrity breach. The same sensor can also be used for diagnosing air filter plugging and PCV valve degradation. Use of an existing sensor to diagnose multiple engine components provides cost reduction and sensor compaction benefits.
US09068482B2
A spool valve for controlling a twin phaser for coupling a drive member to two driven members and to enable the phase of the two driven members to be varied independently includes a bore operably associated with the twin phaser, fluid channels opening into the bore, and a spool. The spool is received in and is moveable relative to the bore so as to selectively open and close the fluid channels in a predetermined manner, thereby providing a fluid communication between the spool and the twin phaser, and varying a phase of output members relative to an input member. The spool and the fluid channels are configured so that an axial displacement of the spool relative to the bore serves to control a phase of a first output member, and a rotation of the spool relative to the bore serves to control a phase of a second output member.
US09068477B2
A valve system for providing closing force to one or more valves of an engine is provided. In one example, the system comprises a first tappet bore in fluid communication with a second tappet bore via a bidirectional oil passage. The system may provide valve closing forces to assist in the closing of valves coupled to the tappet bores, lowering required valve spring forces.
US09068458B2
A motor-driven compressor that prevents electric leakage from a drive circuit while suppressing the generation of noise. The motor-driven compressor includes a compressor mechanism that compresses a refrigerant, a motor mechanism that actuates the compressor mechanism, a drive circuit that drives the motor mechanism. The drive circuit is connected to a power supply. An inner housing accommodates the compressor mechanism and the motor mechanism in a sealed state and holds the drive circuit. An outer housing accommodates the inner housing and includes a mounting portion that can be mounted to another member. An intermediate member arranged between the inner housing and the outer housing and between the drive circuit and the outer housing. The intermediate members include anti-vibration and thermal insulation properties. A protector protects the drive circuit from an external impact, wherein the protector is arranged on the outer housing.
US09068456B2
A trochoidal gear pump or engine uses a coaxial hub with an outer and/or inner rotor and an associated rolling element bearing assembly that uses pre-loaded bearings to precisely set the rotational axis and/or the axial position of the rotor with which it is associated. This allows the fixed-gap clearance between the rotor surfaces and the housing or other rotor surfaces to be set at a distance that minimizes operating fluid shear forces and/or by-pass leakage and eliminates gear tooth wear thus preserving effective chamber to chamber sealing. The device is useful in handling gaseous and two-phase fluids in expansion/contracting fluid engines/compressors and can incorporate an output shaft for an integrated condensate pump for use with Rankine cycles. A vent from the housing cavity to a lower pressure input or output port regulates built-up fluid pressure in the housing, thereby optimizing the efficiency of the device by controlling bypass leakage.
US09068455B2
A pneumatic engine system uses gas circulation to recycle exhausted air, so as to reduce gas consumption, save energy, protect the environment, operate for a longer duration, and slow down the attenuation of the power output thereof. The pneumatic engine system includes a pneumatic engine, a gas storage device, a transit gas storage tank, and a suction device. The pneumatic engine receives a compressed air to generate power output. The gas storage device stores the compressed gas and supplies the compressed gas to the pneumatic engine. The transit gas storage tank receives gas discharged from the pneumatic engine. The suction device extracts gas from the transit gas storage tank and transport the extracted gas to the gas storage device for recycle.
US09068453B2
Mobile mining machine and method for driving tunnels, roadways or shafts, in particular in hard rock
A mobile mining machine includes a movable machine base frame having a boom, a swinging device for swinging the boom, and a tilting device for tilting the boom. At least one tool drum is coupled to the boom for rotation about a drum axis and rotatable tool carriers are arranged on a circumference of the tool drum. The boom has a supporting arm, on which the tool drum is mounted, and a separate swinging base, which is swingable about a swing axis in relation to the machine base frame by the swinging device. The supporting arm and the swinging base are connected to one another by a system of guide bars, by way of which a setting angle of the drum axis in relation to the swing axis is adjustable.
US09068447B2
A method for stimulating a multi-zone wellbore completed with a string of production casing, including pumping a first volume of acidic fluid into the wellbore under pressure, and then injecting the first volume of acidic fluid into a first zone of interest along the production casing dropping at least one plug into the wellbore, the plug being fabricated from a material that substantially dissolves in the presence of the acidic fluid at or over a selected period of time.
US09068441B2
A method and device for fracturing a subterranean formation by projecting a bullet assembly into the formation and then reacting energetic material within the bullet assembly. The bullet assembly can be part of a charge device that is in a perforating gun. A delay fuse can be included so the energetic material reaction begins after the bullet assembly reaches the end of its travel in the formation.
US09068429B2
A dissolvable tool includes a body having at least a portion configured to dissolve in a fluid, and a barrier connected to the body. The barrier is configured to slidably fluidically seal to a structure that the body and the barrier are movable within to maintain a volume of the fluid between the barrier and the body while the barrier and the body are moved through the structure.
US09068428B2
A selectively corrodible downhole article includes a movable cylindrical member comprising a first section and an axially separated second section, the first section comprising a first material having a first galvanic activity, the second section comprising a second material having a second galvanic activity, the first galvanic activity greater than the second, the first section electrically isolated from the second section. The article also includes a fixed member disposed on the cylindrical member and configured for electrical contact with the first or second section, the fixed member comprising an intermediate material having an intermediate galvanic activity, the intermediate galvanic activity intermediate the first and second galvanic activity, the movable cylindrical member configured for movement from a first position where the first section is disposed and in electrical contact with the fixed member and a second position where the second section is disposed and in electrical contact with the fixed member.
US09068425B2
A well tool for use with a subterranean well can include a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, an internal chamber containing a dielectric fluid, and a flow path which alternates direction, and which provides pressure communication between the internal chamber and the flow passage. A method of controlling operation of a well tool can include actuating an actuator positioned in an internal chamber of the well tool, a dielectric fluid being disposed in the chamber, and the chamber being pressure balanced with a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, and varying the actuating, based on measurements made by at least one sensor of the well tool.
US09068417B2
Pressure cycle independent indexer devices and methods include an indexing logic having a trigger sequence path defining a pressure event (e.g., one or more pressure events) between a starting slot and an actuation slot and each pressure event being located between a sequence transition point from an incoming sequence leg into an outgoing sequence leg of the trigger sequence path and a return transition point from the trigger sequence path into a return path. The indexing logic may permit cycling hydraulic pressures in a well without inadvertently cycling through the trigger sequence path.
US09068414B2
A hydraulically actuated setting tool has a plurality of pistons that move in tandem when unlocked. The pistons are initially in pressure balance to take a load off a single locking mechanism that retains all the pistons. The pistons move due to admission of hydrostatic and/or applied pressure from the annulus on one side of each piston with an opposite side exposed to atmospheric pressure. The locking member is exposed to the annulus and is located away from any atmospheric chambers associated with the pistons. In this manner the components can be made thicker to resist burst and collapse pressure and the loads on the locking member reduced due to initial piston pressure balance configuration. Depths of greater than 10,000 meters can be used due to one or more of the described design features.
US09068412B2
The head (80) comprises an upper portion for attaching and connecting to a cable (32) and a lower attaching portion for electrically connecting to a control and transmission module (82) of a tool to be lowered in the well. The head (80) comprises a hollow outer enclosure (94) and a mechanical connection assembly. The mechanical connection assembly comprises an attaching member (114) and a liner (116) defining an inner lumen (121) to receive the attaching member (114) and the lower end of the cable (32) The connecting head (80) defines a first downhole electrical path (70) able to extend from a lower segment (126) of the cable to a first connector of the control and transmission module (82), the first downhole electrical path (70) being completely electrically insulated from the outer enclosure (94).
US09068398B2
Methods and apparatus for installing deepwater completions and performing well intervention from a vessel that can perform other duties while not running completions or performing interventions. The system for installing deepwater completions and performing well intervention may comprise a surface pipe handling and deployment package including a horizontally operated rig that may also be operated in a slanted mode. Deepwater completions may be deployed from the vessel via a buoyant horizontal riser (BHR), which may be supported by a submerged buoyant tensioning system (BTS). In this manner, the cost of performing completion or intervention operations may be significantly reduced compared to such operations run from a drilling rig.
US09068395B1
An apparatus attachable to an extension ladder is provided having a single leg extendable in a direction perpendicular and adjacent to the two lowest rungs of an extension ladder, a channel bar sized to receive a substantial length of a lowest rung of the ladder, and a hook for latching onto a next to lowest rung of the ladder. A foot pivotally mounted to the leg at one end thereof supports the leg onto or at least partially into a level or non-level surface. A step member extends from the leg at an angle. When the ladder is extended upwards by a user, a removable arm member is received through a holder of the leg to lie against a user's leg to provide stability and prevent spinning. The apparatus when attached to the lowest two rungs elevates the ladder to be non-contact with the level or non-level surface.
US09068386B2
A stowable folding door device includes a slider to move the folded door in a depth direction of an article of furniture, a hook supported by the slider so as to rotate about a first rotation shaft and to engage with an engaging section provided on the article of furniture, and a lever supported by the hook to rotate about a second rotation shaft. Upon folding up the foldable door, the lever rotates in a first direction about the first rotation shaft together with the hook while contacting the rear surface of the foldable door, and the engagement between the hook and the engaging section is released. When the foldable door closes an opening of the article of furniture, the lever rotates relative to the hook in the direction opposite the first direction about the second rotation shaft while contacting the rear surface of the foldable door.
US09068379B2
A vehicle door closer device comprises a latch that is capable of engaging with a striker of a vehicle body; a ratchet that is capable of engaging with the latch; and a release-canceling mechanism that comprises a first release-output lever, a second release-output lever and a canceling lever. A locking knob is operated, and the canceling lever disconnects a motion transmitting path between the first release-output lever and the second release-output lever thereby enabling the ratchet to engage with the latch, so that a vehicle door can be closed.
US09068378B2
A closure system for drawer cabinets, comprising locking means (2) with stacked cams (4) and that can be configured in at least a releasing position, in which it enables the opening of a drawer (102), and a locking position, in which it prevents the opening of the drawers (102); activation means (9) that can be activated by means of the command of an operator and that is active on said locking means (2) for moving the locking means (2) between said locking (closed) and releasing (open) positions; and enabling means (15) designed for enabling and disabling movement of the locking means (2) between the locking and releasing positions. The activation means (9) is configured in such a manner as to bring itself automatically from the open position to the closed position within a pre-established interval of time, following release of a command for opening the activation means (9) by the operator.
US09068377B2
The lock assemblies as described herein engage with keepers on movable sashes and include features designed to provide additional sealing functions to the lock assembly by incorporating a ribbon seal within a catch housing of the lock assembly.
US09068373B2
At least one socket in a swimming pool allows for the mounting of at least one pool accessory by way of a post mounted in the socket. In some embodiments, the socket is located in the bottom of the pool. In some embodiments, the socket is coupled to an electricity source to provide electricity to the post or pool accessory. In some embodiments, the socket is coupled to an air source to provide bubbles. In some embodiments, the socket is coupled to a fog source to provide a fog supply. In some embodiments, the socket is coupled to a water source to provide water flow to the post or pool accessory. In some embodiments, the fluid supplied to the post includes a scent. In some embodiments, the socket includes a light source and the post includes optical fibers to transmit light from the light source through the post.
US09068371B2
A wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water with an inlet end connected to a water supply, a floor, and spaced side walls, a first bed form or weir at the inlet end of the channel, and a second bed form in the channel downstream of the first bed form. Also disclosed is a wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water, the channel having an inlet end connected to a water supply for supplying a flowing stream of water, a floor, and spaced side walls, and at least one oblique foil member adjustably mounted in the floor of the channel. The foils, weirs or bed form, form a standing wave.
US09068369B1
A swimming pool water leveler system. Implementations may include a water leveler comprising one or more of the following aspects: separate fill and sensing chambers within the water leveler housing; logical water level adjustment features that provide a tactile indicator of water level change; a continuous balance line and overflow line; a water supply line seal valve with a cup seal; a reducer plug in an outlet between the sensing chamber and the balance line to assist in junk removal; and the ability to pressure test the balance line and overflow line at the same time.
US09068368B2
The invention resides in an alignment device able to align substantially vertical starter bars for a masonry block wall, the alignment device comprising a plurality of spacer arms spaced a predetermined distance from each other and a plurality of attachment members attached to respective spacer arms, the attachment members able to be operatively attached to the vertical starter bars.
US09068363B2
This invention relates to a set of pieces or parts making up a system of metallic adjustable formwork for concrete structures in civil Works which functions is to allow the assembly, junction and adjustment of the formwork system in the most efficient way with the use of a system of adjustable formwork which looks for to use the shorter quantity of metallic panels as accessory during the project execution. The way as the each element has characteristics of specially defined shape, size and function to get a rigid structure, which allow to build a mold over which the concrete is poured maintaining their characteristics and perform such functions rapidly, efficiently and securely.
US09068354B2
An outside corner patch for TPO roofing is formed from a circular piece of TPO membrane material being vacuum formed to define an array of flutes that extend from the center of the piece toward its edges. The flutes form ridges and valleys that generally are shaped as conical sections with the apex of the conical sections located at the center of the patch. The number and size of the flutes is optimized in such a way that, when the flutes are stretched flat, the patch conforms to and fits flat against the surfaces of an outside corner formed by the intersection of a roof deck with an upward protrusion from the roof. The TPO outside corner patch is applied over the corner and thermally welded to surrounding TPO membranes on the roof deck and the protrusion to form a watertight seal at the outside corner.
US09068345B2
A multi-sectional acoustic septum that includes sections which have different acoustic resistance properties. The multi-sectional acoustic septums extend vertically with the acoustic cell and are capable of increasing the effective acoustical length of the acoustic cell. The multiple acoustic properties provided by the multiple acoustic sections also make it possible to target specific frequency ranges within the overall frequency range of the acoustic cell.
US09068342B2
Some embodiments of masonry blocks can be used to form a wall system that provides an improved resistance to moisture penetration that might otherwise advance to an interior surface of the wall. In particular embodiments, some or all of the masonry blocks in the wall system may be equipped with one or more moisture drainage elements formed in a surface of the respective masonry block.
US09068336B2
A mat-like drain seal composed of a flexible, compressible, conformable polymer material and having at least a centralized window area and a reinforcing band positioned adjacent the edges of the drain seal, the window area being at least translucent such that liquid passing under the drain seal is visible through the drain seal.
US09068332B2
This invention comprises a bidet device, including a bidet kit, that can be mounted on a conventional toilet seat. A bidet valve is positioned between a bidet hoop conduit and a water supply conduit. Rotation of the bidet hoop conduit results in rotation of a valve seat relative to a valve stem to permit water to flow through the bidet hoop conduit. Water does not initially flow and only flows as the bidet hoop conduit reaches an extended operative position. Rotation of a handle or lever arm is the only movement necessary to move the bidet hoop conduit and initiate actuation of the valve. The bidet valve includes an actuator with a notch, the sides of which engage a stationary arm attached to the toilet seat to open and close the valve.
US09068331B2
The invention is directed to a toilet overflow prevention device. The device is a toilet tank shutoff system, composed of a sensor for use in the toilet bowl or tank, an electro-mechanical actuator, and an electronic communication link. The electromechanical actuator is configured to raise the control rod, which controls the filler valve of the toilet. A latch mechanism would retain the control rod, once it is raised. The system would raise the control rod upon receiving a signal from the sensor that the toilet is at risk of overflowing; the control rod would be retained in the raised position by the latch mechanism without requiring electric current, until released manually by the user. The sensor in the toilet bowl would preferably be in electronic communication with the electro-mechanical actuator in the toilet tank by a wire covered in a durable material, or by a short range, wireless communication protocol.
US09068327B2
A low-cost fluid flow meter to conveniently measure the volume of a fluid, for example water, when expelled from a faucet includes a scale with markings for predetermined volumes of a fluid. A flow divider positioned in the main path of flow is used to redirect a small portion of the fluid flow into a separate measurement compartment. The fluid level is then registered optically as a representation of the accumulated fluid flow and presented through light-guiding optics to the user. The measurement compartment is automatically emptied through a pressure activated reset mechanism, so that when fluid flow is turned off the meter is nulled. The device is installed to the outlet of a faucet and operates as a substitute to many of the common measurement sets and containers used in a household for water dosage, as well as serves as an indicator of the water consumed each time the faucet is opened.
US09068326B2
An automatic sensing system and a detecting method for use with plumbing equipment in the kitchen and washroom are shown and described. The automatic sensing system includes an ambient light sensor for detecting the ambient light intensity around the equipment. The system further includes a detecting sensor for detecting whether user enters the detected area. The system also includes a controller which controls the equipment based on detected signals from the detecting sensor. The controller is configured to start or change the state of the detecting sensor according to a detected value change of the ambient light intensity. The automatic sensing system advantageously saves power consumed by the detecting sensor when the ambient light sensor does not indicate use by the equipment.
US09068325B2
An adapter for attachment to a water supply pipe and an exterior conduit includes an adjustable element, a mounting element, and at least one inner fastening element. The adapter also may include filtering elements, covers, and other elements which add in the operation and appearance of the adapter. The adapter may be incorporated in any assembly that requires exterior routing of water from a water supply pipe to one or more exterior conduits. These conduits may be any device or accessory that routes water from the water supply pipe, through the adapter, to an exit point. Examples of exterior conduits include waterborne bars, overhead shower assemblies, handheld shower assemblies, and other types of waterborne accessories.
US09068311B2
The system and methods of the present invention selectively permit aquatic organisms to bypass an obstruction, such as a lock or a dam. Certain embodiments of the system include a container through which aquatic organisms and water may flow, a container pressurizer for pressurizing the container, and a pressure control mechanism.
US09068305B2
The present invention discloses sections of highway traffic infrastructures, including multipurpose structures, for best combining renewable energy and traffic assistance systems along the highway. According to a first innovative aspect, the distribution of structures accounts for aspects such as driving comfort, (urban) landscape integration and adjustment to energy demand and traffic circulation conditions. According to a complimentary innovative aspect, ample elevated constructions, as required by solar and wind energy systems, combine with certain dimensional dispositions, as required by different traffic assistance means, in view of enhanced energy distribution and traffic safety.
US09068302B2
The invention relates to a mixer bar for a stabilizer/recycler, having an attachment side that comprises an attachment surface for mounting on a drum surface, and having a tool holder receptacle. A mixer bar of this kind can be configured in wear- and strength-optimized fashion, with little production outlay, if provision is made that the mixer bar is embodied as a forged part and has a cross-sectional profile that varies at least locally transversely to the tool feed direction.
US09068300B2
A power riding trowel for finishing concrete comprising rotors turned by gearboxes driven by gearbox driveshaft's linked to the moor output by CVT gear ratio control. The motor output shaft drives a first jackshaft driven at a higher speed than the motor RPM. A CVT pulley assembly comprising first and second CVT pulleys and a CVT belt entrained between them has a first CVT pulley driven by the first jackshaft. A second jackshaft splined to the second CVT pulley drives the gearbox driveshaft at a speed lower than said second jackshaft to operate the rotor means at a proper speed and torque.
US09068299B2
A tough water-permeable paver block includes a mass of adherent coated granules with intervening contiguous channels. A method for making pavers includes selecting a gravel, heating, then evenly coating every granule with a non-rigid thermoplastics material typically at about 75 g/kg gravel, placing the hot material into a form, then cooling, optionally under imposed pressure. In one option the paver is formed from loose granules at its final resting place. The material may be provided as a coated, non-adherent gravel for heating into a coherent mass in situ. Applications include footpaths, roads and drain covers.
US09068293B2
The invention is directed towards methods and compositions for processes based on the combination of organic peroxyacids and ammonium salts that preserve and enhance the response to optical brighteners (fluorescent whitening dyes), brightness and improve color of pulp or paper when applied during different stages of the papermaking process are identified. The composition and method improve response to optical brighteners (fluorescent whitening dyes), maintain and/or enhance brightness and enhance the performance of paper products. Used in combination with optical brighteners the described agents produce a synergistic effect not previously identified in the paper process.
US09068284B2
Provided is a method of preparing thermoplastics-continuous fiber hybrid composite, which is easily woven and has excellent uniformity and impregnation at the time of hot melt impregnation after the weaving, including: a) widely and uniformly stretching a bundle of glass fibers; b) heating the stretched glass fibers; c) preparing a thermoplastics-continuous fiber bonding material by binding the heated glass fiber with thermoplastics; d) preparing a multi-layered thermoplastics-continuous fiber bonding material by folding the bonding material in a shape of zigzag; and e) pressing the multi-layered thermoplastics-continuous fiber bonding material.
US09068276B2
A method of growing a single crystal material using a device that includes a conical plug. The conical plug includes a first portion defining a first conical hole about an axis, the first conical hole having a first angle, and includes a second portion contiguous with the first portion and defining a second conical hole about the axis, the second conical hole having a second angle having the same sign as the first angle and being greater than the first angle. The device includes an upper tube comprising the conical plug fused therein and a seeding well plug. The device includes a lower tube including the seeding well plug fused therein. A single crystal KPb2Cl5 material is grown from the oriented single crystal KPb2Cl5 seed through the first conical hole and then the second conical hole and then with continuing growth in the upper tube.
US09068263B2
The present invention relates to equipment used to manufacture PV cells or modules. In some embodiments, a gas delivery and gas exhaust system are provided for processing a plurality of substrates. The gas delivery and gas exhaust system are designed such that the substrates are exposed in a uniform manner to the gas.
US09068259B2
There is provided an AC power supply for a sputtering apparatus in which the AC power supply can prevent the induction of an arc discharge by suppressing an overvoltage to be generated when the polarity of each electrode is reversed. A bridge circuit made up of a plurality of switching transistors SW1-SW4 is disposed between positive and negative DC current output lines from a DC electric power supply source. An inductor DCL which makes a DC output to have a constant-current characteristic is disposed in at least one of the positive and the negative DC output lines from the DC electric power supply source to the bridge circuit, and a snubber circuit is disposed in parallel with inputs of the bridge circuit.
US09068252B2
Methods and technologies to maximize the aging response and the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys are provided. In one embodiment, the aging process for the slowly-quenched aluminum alloys includes, but is not limited to, at least a two-stage solution treatment and a two-stage aging hardening. In the solution treatment, the components are first heat treated at an initial solution treatment temperature and then gradually heated up to about 5° C. to about 30° C. above the initial solution treatment temperature for the material. For the aging treatment, the castings/components are first aged at a lower temperature followed by a higher temperature for the subsequent aging stages. The temperature increase during solution treatment and/or aging can be in steps, in a continuous manner, or combinations thereof. Another embodiment includes a two stage aging process in which there is a non-isothermal aging step.
US09068249B2
Provided is a method of recovering rare-earth elements, including causing rare-earth elements particularly including Nd and Dy to leach efficiently from a raw material for leaching which contains the rare-earth elements, and separating and recovering the rare-earth elements. The method of recovering rare-earth elements includes: a leaching step including performing leaching treatment of rare-earth elements in which an acidic slurry of a raw material for leaching which contains the rare-earth elements is held under a predetermined condition, and then subjecting the slurry obtained after the leaching treatment to solid-liquid separation, yielding a leachate containing the rare-earth elements; and a separation step of separating and recovering the rare-earth elements from the yielded leachate, in which: the raw material for leaching contains Ca as CaO at a ratio of 4 to 15 mass % and Ti as TiO2 at a ratio of 2 to 13 mass % in a solid component (S); an acid aqueous solution is an acid aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid and/or nitric acid; and the leaching treatment performed in the leaching step is digestion or maceration which is performed under the heating and pressurizing conditions of a temperature of 160 to 300° C. and a pressure of 0.65 to 10 MPa, and the rare-earth elements are caused to leach together with Ca in the leaching step.
US09068247B2
A method for recovering nickel and cobalt from a PLS: (a) passing the PLS through an ion exchange bed to load nickel onto the ion exchange resin and produce a cobalt-containing raffinate solution, (b) passing sulfuric acid through the loaded bed to strip nickel from the resin and produce a nickel-containing eluate, (c) rinsing the stripped ion exchange bed, (d) adjusting the pH of the cobalt-containing raffinate solution to a pH of at least 2.3, (e) passing the cobalt-containing raffinate solution through an ion exchange bed to pre-load cobalt on the ion exchange resin, (f) repeating step (a) though (e) until the cobalt concentration of the cobalt-containing raffinate solution increases to >2× of the PLS, (g) removing a portion of the cobalt-containing raffinate solution of step (d) from the nickel recovery circuit, and (h) passing a portion of the cobalt-containing raffinate solution from step (d) to step (e).
US09068244B2
A method for recovering chromite from ore slurry obtained by processing nickel oxide ore, the raw material, in a plant for the wet smelting of nickel oxide ore. In the method chromite is separated and recovered from an ore slurry obtained from a nickel oxide ore when nickel and cobalt are recovered from the nickel oxide ore. The method has a grain diameter separation step for separating the ore slurry on the basis of a predetermined classification point according to the difference in the grain diameter of particles contained in the supplied ore slurry and a sedimentation separation step for causing the oversized ore slurry separated in the grain diameter separation step to undergo sedimentation and concentration on the basis of a target classification point, and recovering the chromite. The coarse particle content of the oversized ore slurry separated in the grain diameter separation step is adjusted to 30-50%.
US09068235B2
The present invention provides improved fungal strains. In some embodiments, the improved fungal strains find use in hydrolyzing cellulosic material to glucose.
US09068234B2
The invention relates to the fields of screening assays, compounds, and methods for altering gene expression and protein levels. In particular, the invention includes assays to screen for agents capable of modulating gene expression in a UTR-dependent manner and agents capable of modulating gene expression.
US09068231B2
Disclosed is a method for screening a novel cancer therapeutic agent. The cancer therapeutic agent exhibits down-regulation of galectin-3 and fascin-1 or interferes with the interaction between galectin-3 and GSK-3β.
US09068223B2
Provided herein are optimized methods for performing multiplexed detection of a plurality of sequence variations. Also provided are methods for performing multiplexed amplification of target nucleic acid.
US09068211B2
The invention relates to cells, nucleic acids, and enzymes, the use thereof for producing sophorolipids, and methods for producing sophorolipids.
US09068209B2
The invention provides a system and method for synthesizing polynucleotides by solid phase assembly oligonucleotide precursors, in accordance with the method, a polynucleotide is partitioned into an ordered set of subunits, wherein each subunit is assembled in a single reaction from a subset of oligonucleotide precursors that uniquely anneal together to produce the subunit. The subunits are then assembled to form the desired polynucleotide. An important feature of the invention is the selection of subunits that are free of undesired sequence elements, such as palindromes, repetitive sequences, and the like, which would result in more than one subunit product alter ligating a pool of oligonucleotide precursors.
US09068204B2
Ethanol losses due to bacterial contamination in fermentation cultures weakens the economics of biofuel production. Lactobacillus species are the predominant contaminant. Bacteriophage lytic enzymes are peptidoglycan hydrolases which degrade Gram positive cell walls when exposed externally and are a novel source of antimicrobials. The streptococcal phage λSA2 endolysin construct demonstrated strong lytic activity towards 17 of 22 strains of lactobacilli, staphylococci or streptococci maintaining optimal specific activity under fermentation conditions toward L. fermentum substrates. Lactobacillus bacteriophage endolysin constructs LysA, LysA2 and LysgaY showed exolytic activity towards ˜60% of the lactobacilli tested including four L. fermentum isolates from fuel ethanol fermentations. Presence of ethanol (≦5%) did not affect lytic activity. Lysins were able to reduce both L. fermentum and L. reuteri contaminants in mock fermentations of corn fiber hydrolysates. Recombinant LysA and λSa2 expressed in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae are functional; LysA was shown to reduce lactobacilli in experimentally infected fermentations.
US09068202B2
Methods and systems for the production of one or more lipid products from a gaseous substrate using a two stage fermentation process are provided. The method comprises providing a gaseous substrate comprising CO2 and H2 to a primary bioreactor containing a culture or one or more microorganisms, and fermenting the substrate to produce an acid such as acetate. The acid, e.g. acetate from the primary bioreactor is then provided to a secondary bioreactor, where it is used as a substrate for fermentation to lipids by one or more yeasts.
US09068197B2
A translation enhancer-driven positive feedback vector system is disclosed which is designed to facilitate identification of a Translational Enhancer Element (TEE) and to provide a means for overexpression of gene products. The system exploits both transcriptional and translational approaches to control the expression levels of genes and/or gene products. Methods are also disclosed for screening libraries of random nucleotide sequences to identify translational elements and for overproduction of proteins, which have uses in both research and industrial environments.
US09068174B2
Polynucleotides encoding a mutant human carboxylesterase enzyme and polypeptides encoded by the polynucleotides which are capable of metabolizing a prodrug and inactive metabolites thereof to active drug are provided. Compositions and methods for sensitizing cells to a prodrug agent, inhibiting cell growth, treating drug addiction, and facilitating the metabolism of an organophosphate with this enzyme are also provided. In addition, a screening assay for identification of drugs activated by this enzyme is described.
US09068173B2
The present invention provides DNA molecules that constitute fragments of the genome of a plant, and polypeptides encoded thereby. The DNA molecules are useful for specifying a gene product in cells, either as a promoter or as a protein coding sequence or as an UTR or as a 3′ termination sequence, and are also useful in controlling the behavior of a gene in the chromosome, in controlling the expression of a gene or as tools for genetic mapping, recognizing or isolating identical or related DNA fragments, or identification of a particular individual organism, or for clustering of a group of organisms with a common trait.
US09068166B2
Use of a compound of Formula 1 for inducing differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to chondrocytes, and a pharmaceutical composition for treating a cartilage disease, which includes chondrocytes in which differentiation from mesenchymal stem cells is induced by the compound of Formula 1, are provided. Differentiation of the mesenchymal stem cells treated with the compound of Formula 1 to chondrocytes is specifically induced, and thus the compound can be used to effectively treat a cartilage disease such as arthritis, cartilage damage, and a cartilage defect.
US09068162B2
Provided are keratin compositions useful in cell culture. In some embodiments the keratins are biocompatible, promote cell growth, promote cell adhesion and provide an excellent substrate for cell culture. Keratin compositions described herein may be used as coatings, gels, three-dimensional scaffolds, additives to cell culture media, microcarriers, etc. The keratin substrates may also be used to deliver cells, e.g., for cell therapy applications.
US09068158B2
The present invention depicts an MRD-based reactor. The MRD-based reactor comprises of a means for containing a flowing media and reacting the same (reactor). The reactor is characterized by a continuous wall portion, and is in connection with at least one MRD, adapted for applying localized spectroscopy towards the media. MRD-based reactors, in which the MRD is at least partially inside the reactor or reaction media, and those in which the MRD accommodates the reactor, are also introduced. Lastly, the invention teaches an in situ method for controlling and analyzing of a reaction. The method comprises of providing an MRD-based reactor; applying a magnetic field within the reactor, especially for performing a plurality of localized spectroscopic measurements and either real time or offline analyzing and/or controlling of reactions in the flowing media.
US09068149B2
An industrial cleaning system that produces and distributes an aqueous ozone solution is described. The system provides a centralized system for producing the aqueous ozone solution and distributing the aqueous ozone solution to different application points at different flow rates and concentrations. The system includes an ozone generator for generating ozone gas, which is injected into a supply of water to form the aqueous ozone solution. A reaction vessel receives the aqueous ozone solution from the injector. The reaction vessel reduces the bubbles of ozone gas in the aqueous ozone solution to increase the oxidation reduction potential of the aqueous ozone solution.
US09068125B2
A process for the recovery of a pure aromatics-containing product is disclosed. This product is obtained by extractive distillation of a gasoline rich in aromatics, in which olefins, diolefins and polyolefins are separated, and this extractive distillation is followed by a hydrogenation of the recovered aromatics-rich, olefin-lean product stream, in which the alkylated aromatics, especially toluene and xylene, are dealkylated and the paraffinic dealkylation products further converted into methane so that a significant portion of hydrogen can be saved by carrying out the hydrogenation subsequent to the extractive distillation, as the aromatics mixture is then free of olefins and no hydrogen is required for an olefin hydrogenation, with extractive distillation and recovery of the extracting solvent taking place in one column. An apparatus for carrying out the process described is also disclosed. A column is preferably used for the extractive distillation which allows performing the extractive distillation with a solvent recycling system so that it is not required to provide an additional stripping column for removing the extracting solvent.
US09068115B2
A vacuum fluorescent display apparatus comprising a filament cathode (10) and an anode (7); the filament cathode being arranged in a vacuum container, and used for releasing low-energy electrons; the anode having a phosphor (8) adhering thereto, and being struck by the low-energy electrons and thereby caused to emit light; wherein a structural body (9) is provided to a region in which the low-energy electrons released by the cathode can be controlled; the structural body having an electrically conductive or semi-conductive metal oxide formed at a portion that is bombarded by low-energy electrons.
US09068113B2
The present invention provides a composition comprising: a polyester base polymer; at least one non-polymeric oxidizable organic compound; at least one transition metal in a positive oxidation state, said metal being present in the composition in an amount of from about 10 to about 400 ppm, wherein the polyester base polymer comprises less than about 40 ppm phosphorous. The compositions of the present invention do not exhibit an induction period prior to the onset of oxygen scavenging upon formation into a container.
US09068097B2
Disclosed is a biaxially oriented polypropylene film substrate free from primer coating, which comprises successively connected affinity layer, core layer and surface layer, said affinity layer comprises 10% to 80% by weight of polypropylene homopolymer, 10% to 80% by weight of polyolefin plastomer and 1% to 10% by weight of anti-adhesion agent; said core layer is polypropylene homopolymer; said surface layer is the same as the affinity layer or a non-coated surface layer that comprises 90% to 99% by weight of polypropylene homopolymer and 1% to 10% by weight of anti-adhesion agent. A film free from primer coating and its preparing method are also provided. The coated film of this invention does not need the process of primer pre-coating, which reduces the relevant equipment costs on one hand and avoids the safety risks when using and restoring solvent type primer on the other.
US09068093B2
A process for modifying the surface of a carbon black by contacting said carbon black with a conjugated diimine compound. The conjugated diimine compound may comprise various substituents to provide the carbon black with desired corresponding properties, such as groups to impart increased hydrophilicity and self-dispersibility to the carbon black. Other embodiments relate to novel carbon black products, which may be prepared according to a process of the invention. The carbon black products may be used in the same applications as conventional carbon blacks. Such uses include, but are not limited to, plastic compositions, aqueous inks, aqueous coatings, rubber compositions, paper compositions, and textile compositions. In a specific embodiment, the resulting surface modified carbon black is employed as a pigment in an aqueous inkjet ink composition.
US09068092B2
A process for preparing a polymer comprising reacting at least the components i) to iii) in any order: i) a compound of the Formula (1): Formula (1) wherein: T1 and T2 independently are HO—, HS— or R1HN—; Q1 and Q2 independently are —NR2—; A1 and A2 independently are an optionally substituted divalent organic linking group; R1 when present is H or an optionally substituted alkyl, aryl or heterocyclyl group; R2 is H or an optionally substituted alkyl, aryl or heterocyclyl group; Z is an HO— group or a group of the Formula (2) or (3); Formula (2) wherein: L is —HN—, —O— or —S—; X is an optionally substituted organic group; Formula (3) wherein: each X independently is an optionally substituted organic group; in both Formulae (2) and (3) the asterisk (*) signifies the point of attachment to the triazine ring: ii) a diisocyanate; iii) an isocyanate reactive compound having at least one ionic group.
US09068090B2
An image forming method including adhering a pretreatment liquid to a surface of a recording medium bearing a coat layer thereon; adhering an ink including a colorant, an organic solvent, a surfactant and water to the surface of the recording medium to form an image of the ink; and adhering an aftertreatment liquid to the image-bearing surface of the recording medium to form a protective layer on at least the image on the recording medium. The organic solvent of the ink includes a polyalcohol having an equilibrium moisture content of not less than 30% by weight at 23° C. and 80% RH; a β-alkoxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide compound, and at least one compound selected from 1,3-dioxane-4-methanol compounds, oxetane compounds, and sebacic acid dialkylester compounds.
US09068080B2
Disclosed are merocyanine derivatives which correspond to the formula (I), wherein L1, L2 and L3 independently of each other are hydrogen; or L1 and L3 may be linked together to form a carbocyclic ring; R3 and R4 independently of each other are CN; —COR5; —COOR5; —CONR5R6; C1-C22alkyl; C2-C22alkenyl; C2-C22alkinyl; C3-C12cycloalkyl; C3-C12cycloalkenyl; C7-C20aralkyl; C1-C20heteroalkyl; C3-C12cycloheteroalkyl; C3-C18heteroaralkyl; C6-C20 aryl; C1-C12alkylcarbonylamino-C6-C20aryl; C2-C12heteroaryl; or —X2—Sil2; n is a number from 1 to 4; the meaning of R1 and R2 depends on the definition of n. The compounds are useful as UV absorbers for cosmetic applications.
US09068066B2
Disclosed herein is a curable composition comprising ethylene copolymer elastomer, a relatively small amount of a polyamide, and optionally a compatibilizer wherein curable composition demonstrates improved heat aging properties without the loss of tensile strength. Also disclosed is the process for making such curable ethylene copolymer elastomer.
US09068060B2
The present invention aims to provide a composite including a rubber component in which surface-treated silica with a small particle size is uniformly dispersed, and a method for producing the composite. The present invention also aims to provide a rubber composition including the composite, the rubber composition capable of achieving both fuel efficiency and abrasion resistance while having excellent processability. The present invention also aims to provide a pneumatic tire including the rubber composition. The present invention relates to a composite formed from a compound latex prepared by mixing a natural rubber latex and a dispersion of surface-treated silica formed from a water glass, the surface-treated silica having an average particle size of not more than 100 nm and having a chemically-treated surface.
US09068056B2
Disclosed is layered double hydroxides (LDH) used to catalyze the polymerization of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The LDH of a catalyst amount may efficiently reduce the PET polymerization period and further be uniformly blended into the PET product to form composites. Compared with the pure PET, the composite including LDH has better properties such as mechanical properties, linear expansion coefficient, barrier, thermal stability, and transparency. In addition, the LDH in the composite is safer than conventional heavy metal catalysts, especially when applied to food or drink packages.
US09068051B2
The present invention aims to provide a method for producing a refined polyrotaxane which includes an industrially advantageous method of producing a polyrotaxane that has excellent storage stability. The method for producing a refined polyrotaxane includes the step of heat-cleaning a polyrotaxane with a cleaning medium, the polyrotaxane containing cyclodextrin molecules, a polyethylene glycol which is included in the cavities of the cyclodextrin molecules in a skewered manner, and a capping group that is placed at each end of the polyethylene glycol and prevents dissociation of the cyclodextrin molecules from the polyethylene glycol.
US09068050B2
A benzoxazine-bridged compound is provided. The compound has a low dielectric constant, a high mechanic strength and a high glass transition temperature. The compound has a highly cross-linked structure with a yellow-light photoluminescent emission. Characterization of the present disclosure has been conducted with Fourier transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, molecular mass and elemental analysis.
US09068047B2
Disclosed is a process for producing poly(arylene sulfide) which includes: a polymerization step of polymerizing a dihalogenated aromatic compound and at least one sulfur source selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfides and alkali metal hydrogen sulfides in an organic amide solvent, preferably in the presence of a phase separating agent; a separation step of separating a polymer from a reaction liquid containing a produced polymer after the polymerization step; a washing step of washing the polymer with a washing liquid that consists of water and/or an organic solvent; and a separated liquid treatment step of bringing both a separated liquid that has been recovered after the separation of the polymer in the separation step and a separated liquid containing a wash waste liquid that has been recovered after the separation of the polymer in the washing step into contact with an alkaline compound. Also disclosed is poly(arylene sulfide).
US09068040B2
Thermoplastic toughened epoxy resin for use in making prepreg for aerospace applications. The resin includes an epoxy resin component comprising a tri functional epoxy resin and/or tetra functional epoxy, a thermoplastic component and 4,4′-Bis(p-aminophenoxy) biphenyl (BAPB) as the curing agent. The use of BAPB as a curative was found to increase the resistance of the cured resin to attack by solvents.
US09068038B2
A phase-separated polymeric composition comprising a first phase including polyurethane domains; and a second phase including a butyl rubber matrix.
US09068027B2
A method comprising contacting a silica support material with a sulfating agent to form a sulfated silica support material comprising sulfate anions; thermally treating the sulfated silica support material to form a thermally treated sulfated silica support material; contacting the thermally treated sulfated silica support material with a chromium-containing compound to form a mixture; and thermally treating the mixture to form a polymerization catalyst. A method comprising thermally treating a silica support material to form a thermally-treated silica support material; contacting the thermally-treated silica support material with a sulfating agent to form a thermally treated sulfated silica support material; thermally treating the thermally treated sulfated silica support material to form a processed silica support material; contacting the processed silica support material with a chromium-containing compound to form a precursor polymerization catalyst; and thermally treating the precursor polymerization catalyst to form a polymerization catalyst.
US09068022B1
A process for modifying starch is described. The process can be used as an alternative to conventional starch modification processes, such as substitution and crosslinking. The process and resulting product can reduce, substantially reduce, substantially eliminate or eliminate the sodium level typically associated with conventionally modified starch products.
US09068012B1
The invention relates to human targets of interest (TOI), anti-TOI ligands, kits compositions and method.
US09068010B2
The present invention relates to novel iturin biosynthesis genes, and uses thereof. More specifically, the present invention provides novel iturin biosynthesis genes, wherein the iturin biosynthesis genes were cloned from Bacillus subtilis subsp. krictiensis ATCC 55079, the base sequence was determined after checking whether the cloned genes are iturin biosynthesis genes or not, and it was ascertained that the identified genes are novel genes different from the reported gene by comparing the base sequences with that of the reported gene, and uses thereof.
US09067999B1
Compositions for cancer or infection treatment via immunopotentiation caused by inhibition of immunosuppressive signal induced by PD-1, PD-L1, or PD-L2 and therapies using them, immunopotentiative substrates included as the active ingredient, screening methods of the substrates for cancer or infection treatment, cell lines used for the screening methods, evaluation methods that selects the substrates for cancer treatment, and carcinoma cell transplanted mammals used for the evaluation methods.The compositions of the present invention that inhibits the function of PD-1, PD-L1, or PD-L2 are useful for cancer or infection treatment.
US09067995B2
The present invention provides a method for generating a functionally modifying antibody to an ion channel comprising immunizing a host with a cyclic peptide comprising at least part of an extracellular sequence of said ion channel.
US09067993B2
The present invention relates to a human monoclonal antibody or fragment thereof which specifically binds to and neutralizes primate GM-CSF.
US09067982B2
Disclosed embodiments relate to antibodies that recognize redox modulated proteins such as glutathionylated actin. Embodiments relate to a reagent for the immunoassay of glutathionylated actin. Disclosed embodiments also relate to diagnosis of and therapies for the treatment of diseases related to impaired deglutathionylation of peptides. Additionally, disclosed embodiments relate to pharmaceutical compositions containing antibodies which recognize redox modulated proteins and kits for the detection or treatment of diseases related to redox modulated proteins which include antibodies that recognize redox modulated proteins.
US09067981B1
The present invention provides crystals including amino acids 1-7 of SEQ ID NO:1 and a Fab fragment of 12A11, 12B4, 10D5 or 3D6, as well as of amino acids 1-40 of SEQ ID NO:1 and a Fab fragment of 12A11 or 3D6, as well as methods for preparing the crystals. The present invention also provides a computer implemented method for analyzing binding of a candidate antibody fragment to a peptide including an epitope of amino acids 1-7 of SEQ ID NO:1, a method for identifying an antibody fragment that can mimic the Fab fragment of 12A11, a method for identifying an antibody fragment that can mimic the Fab fragment of 3D6, a method for identifying a candidate antibody fragment that binds to a peptide including an epitope of amino acids 1-7 of SEQ ID NO:1, and a method for designing a humanized antibody that binds to a peptide comprising an epitope of amino acids 1-7 of SEQ ID NO:1.
US09067978B2
The invention relates to a method or process for solution phase chemical manufacture of depsipeptides of the formula I, wherein the symbols have the meaning defined in the description, to new intermediates and their manufacture, as well as related invention embodiments.
US09067977B2
The invention relates to protracted peptide derivatives such as Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), exendin-4, and analogs thereof, as well as therapeutic uses thereof. The peptide derivative of the invention comprises a peptide wherein at least one amino acid residue is derivatized with A-B-C-, or A-B-C-D-. These compounds are useful in the treatment or prevention of diabetes type 2 and related diseases. The compounds are potent, have a low ratio of binding affinity to the GLP-1 receptor in the presence of high/low albumin concentrations, have long half-lives, and have a high affinity of binding to albumin, all of which is of potential relevance for the overall aim of achieving long-acting, stable and active GLP-1 derivatives with a potential for once weekly administration.
US09067973B2
The present invention provides peptides having an amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 19, 22, 30, 34, 344, 358, 41, 44, 46, 48, 78, 376, 379, 80, 100, 101, 110, 111, 387, 112, 394, 114, 116, 117, 121, 395, 133, 135, 137, 426, 143, 147, 148, 149, 150, 152, 153, 154, 156, 160, 161, 162, 163, 166, 174, 178, 186, 194, 196, 202, 210, 213, 214, 217, 223, 227, 228, 233, 254, 271, 272 or 288, as well as peptides having the above-mentioned amino acid sequences in which 1, 2, or several (e.g., up to 5) amino acids are substituted, deleted, or added, provided the peptides possess cytotoxic T cell inducibility. The present invention also provides drugs for treating or preventing a disease associated with over-expression of the CDH3, EPHA4, ECT2, HIG2, INHBB, KIF20A, KNTC2, TTK and/or URLC10, e.g. cancers containing as an active ingredient one or more of these peptides. The peptides of the present invention find further utility as vaccines.
US09067966B2
The invention relates to novel lupeol-type triterpene derivatives and related compounds, and pharmaceutical compositions useful for therapeutic treatment of viral diseases and particularly HIV mediated diseases.
US09067964B2
The use of at least one nucleic acid based nuclear localization signal including a natural or synthetic m3G-CAP is shown to increase transmembrane transport of a molecular cargo, in particular large molecules, into the nucleus. The use of natural and synthetic m3G-CAP is disclosed and the effect shown with a natural RNA 5′ end nuclear localization signal composed of a 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine CAP (m3G-CAP) coupled to fluorescent Streptavidin in one example, and an antisense oligonucleotide in another. A methylenephosphonate modified m3G-CAP is shown to have improved stability in human serum and in cytosolic extract.
US09067953B2
This invention relates to sulfur based compounds useful in methods of carbon dioxide or sulfur dioxide removal.
US09067947B2
A new class of compounds containing aza-dibenzothiophene or aza-dibenzofuran are provided. The compounds may be used in organic light emitting devices giving improved stability, improved efficiency, long lifetime and low operational voltage. In particular, the compounds may be used as the host material of an emissive layer having a host and an emissive dopant, or as a material in an enhancement layer.
US09067939B2
Provided herein are compounds according to Formula I and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and compositions comprising the same, for use in various methods, including treating cancers such as colon, ovarian, pancreatic, breast, liver, prostate and hematologic cancers:
US09067938B2
The present invention relates to novel pyrazolopyridinone derivatives according to formula (I) and a process of manufacturing thereof. These pyrazolopyridinone derivatives can be used as LPA receptor antagonists for the treatment of various herein disclosed diseases.
US09067937B2
The present invention directs a compound represented by formula (I).
US09067934B2
Compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds are disclosed, wherein the compounds have the structure of Formula I as defined herein. Corresponding pharmaceutical compositions, methods of treatment, methods of synthesis, and intermediates are also disclosed.
US09067925B2
Disclosed are compounds of formula I, compositions containing them, and methods of use for the compounds and compositions in the treatment of conditions in which modulation of the JAK pathway or inhibition of JAK kinases, particularly JAK 2 and JAK3, are therapeutically useful. Also disclosed are methods of making the compounds.
US09067921B2
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I: wherein variable substituents are defined herein, that modulate the activity of or bind to chemokine receptors such as CCR5. In some embodiments, the compounds of the invention are selective for CCR5. The compounds can be used, for example, to treat diseases associated with chemokine receptor expression or activity such as inflammatory diseases, immune diseases and viral infections.
US09067919B2
The present invention relates to the use of dibenzofurans and dibenzothiophenes which have at least one nitrogen-bonded five-membered heterocyclic ring as a substituent as host, blocker and/or charge transport material in organic electronics. The present invention further relates to dibenzofurans and dibenzothiophenes which comprise at least one nitrogen-bonded five-membered heterocyclic ring and at least one carbazolyl radical as substituents, to a process for preparation thereof, and to the use of these compounds in organic electronics.
US09067916B2
Provided is a novel heterocyclic compound which can be used for a light-emitting element, as a host material of a light-emitting layer in which a light-emitting substance is dispersed. A heterocyclic compound represented by a general formula (G1) is provided. In the formula, A represents any of a substituted or unsubstituted dibenzothiophenyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted dibenzofuranyl group, and a substituted or unsubstituted carbazolyl group, R11 to R19 separately represent any of hydrogen, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 14 carbon atoms, and Ar represents a substituted or unsubstituted arylene group having 6 to 13 carbon atoms.
US09067911B2
The present invention relates to a compound of formula I wherein R1, R2, and Ar are as defined herein or to a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt, to a racemic mixture, or to its corresponding enantiomer and/or optical isomer thereof. These compounds and their pharmaceutical compositions are useful in the treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
US09067909B2
A photoacid generator compound has formula (1) wherein n is zero or 1; and R1-R6 are each independently hydrogen, halogen, or unsubstituted or substituted C1-20 linear or branched alkyl, C1-20 cycloalkyl, C6-20 aryl, C3-20 heteroaryl, or an acid-generating group having the structure *L-Z−M+] wherein L is an unsubstituted or substituted C1-50 divalent group; Z− is a monovalent anionic group; and M+ is an iodonium or sulfonium cation. Geminal R groups can combine to form a ring with the carbon to which they are attached, as long as no more than two such rings are formed. At least one of R1-R6 includes the acid-generating group or two germinal R groups combine to form the acid-generating group. Also described are a photoresist composition incorporating the photoacid generator compound, a coated substrate including a layer of the photoresist composition, and a method of forming an electronic device using a layer of the photoresist composition.
US09067904B2
A process is provided for the synthesis of furan and related compounds by vapor phase decarbonylation of furfural and derivatives. The reaction rate, conversion, and selectivity are enhanced by adding water to the feed. The process can be run at lower temperatures than in similar processes run with essentially dry furan and related compounds.
US09067902B2
A method for the epoxidation of an olefin comprising the steps of reacting a feed gas composition containing an olefin, oxygen, and a moderator having a post-conditioning step where the catalyst is exposed to reactor feed having a chlorides concentration of from about 5 ppm to about 7 ppm and at a temperature of about 215° C. to about 225° C.
US09067899B2
Sodium sulfide hydrate is at least partially dehydrated by heating with N-methyl 2-pyrrolidone. 2-Chlorobenzamide is added to the mixture which is heated further. The mixture is cooled and treated with aqueous hydrogen peroxide to give the sodium salt of 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one in good yield. Acidification if desired gives rise to the free 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one.
US09067897B2
2,4-Diaminoquinazolines of formulae I-IV and VI are useful for treating spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
US09067883B2
The invention relates to a new process for producing useful intermediates for the manufacture of NEP inhibitors or prodrugs thereof, in particular NEP inhibitors comprising a g-amino-d-biphenyl-a-methylalkanoic acid, or acid ester, backbone, such as N-(3-carboxyl-1-oxopropyl)-(4S)-(p-phenylphenylmethyl)-4-amino-(2R)-methyl butanoic acid ethyl ester or salt thereof.
US09067878B2
Disclosed is a composition comprising an organogel which comprises: (a) an alkylated aromatic acid compound of the formula or mixtures thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 each, independently of the other, are hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, arylalkyl, or alkyl, provided that at least one of R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 is —X—Rc, wherein —X— is a linking group between Rc and the aromatic group and Rc is alkyl; and (b) an organic liquid.
US09067876B2
Disclosed is an improved exothermic hydroformylation process having at least two reaction stages. Cooling is provided by externally cooling a stream of reaction mixture from one of the stages, dividing the cooled stream into at least two cooled reaction mixture streams; transferring one cooled reaction mixture stream back into the same reaction stage from which it was removed to cool the reaction mixture in that reaction stage; and transferring at least one cooled reaction mixture stream(s) into and through heat exchange means that cool a different reaction stage, and returning it to the same reaction stage from which it was removed.
US09067865B2
The present invention relates to an etheramine mixture containing a monoether diamine and its method of production by alkoxylating an initiator with an alkylene oxide to produce a precursor polyol and reductively aminating the precursor polyol to form the etheramine mixture. The etheramine mixture may be used in variety of applications including as a curing agent for an epoxy resin or as a reactant in the production of polyurea.
US09067862B2
A condensed polycyclic compound is represented by the following Formula [1]: wherein in Formula [1], R1 to R16 each represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, a substituted amino group, an aryl group that may optionally have a substituent group, or a heterocyclic group that may optionally have a substituent group, provided that at least one of R1, R2, R7 and R8 is an aryl group that may optionally have a substituent group, or a heterocyclic group that may optionally have a substituent group.
US09067853B2
A process for selectively dealkylating aromatic compounds includes providing a coal tar stream comprising aromatic compounds and hydrotreating the coal tar stream to reduce a concentration of one or more of organic sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen in the coal tar stream, and to hydrogenate at least a portion of the aromatic compounds in the coal tar stream. The process further includes hydrocracking the hydrotreated coal tar stream to further hydrogenate the aromatic compounds and to crack at least one ring of multi-ring aromatic compounds to form single-ring aromatic compounds. The single-ring aromatic compounds present in the hydrocracked stream are then dealkylated to remove alkyl groups containing two or more carbon atoms.
US09067850B2
Process for synthesizing hydrocarbons includes: reforming a hydrocarbon feedstock containing inert gases in reforming stages to generate a synthesis gas including the inert gases, steam, hydrogen and carbon monoxide; cooling the synthesis gas below the dew point to obtain a dewatered synthesis gas; synthesizing hydrocarbons from the dewatered synthesis gas by the Fischer-Tropsch reaction and separating at least part of the synthesized hydrocarbons, to give a tail gas; subjecting a mixture of at least part of the tail gas and steam to the water-gas shift reaction, to form shifted tail gas having increased hydrogen and carbon dioxide contents; subjecting the shifted tail gas to one or more membrane separation stages thereby generating an inert gas-containing gas mixture and one or more of a hydrogen-, carbon dioxide- and a hydrocarbon-containing gas mixture; and using one or more of the hydrogen-, carbon dioxide- and hydrocarbon-containing gas mixture in a reformer feed stream.
US09067843B2
Phosphatic clays, and the use of phosphatic clays as a soil wetting agent. Phosphatic clays as wetting agents aid in the retention of water in sandy soil, and/or for prevention or reduction of leaching of nutrients. Due to its unique particle size and shape, phosphatic clay exhibits high water absorbing and retaining qualities. Further, phosphatic clay is readily available as a by-product of mining of phosphatic ore. The phosphatic clay wetting agents increases the effectiveness of the water applied to the soil, thereby reducing the amount of run-off, and reducing the amount of water needed to accomplish sufficient irrigation. The phosphatic clay wetting agents can be delivered to the soil as a sprinkle-on product, spray-on product, soil amendment, fertilizer or seed coating, or fertilizer composition.
US09067828B2
The method according to the invention for producing cement clinker comprises substantially the following method steps: raw cement material is preheated in a preheater, the preheated material is heated further in a calcining zone while admitting combustion air, and the material heated in this manner is fired in a kiln to form cement clinker, wherein a part of the waste gases developing in the kiln is used to preheat the raw cement material in the preheater, and another part is diverted, and is used in a heat exchanger to preheat the combustion air used in the calcining zone.
US09067825B2
The present invention relates to the production of a ternesite-belite-calcium sulfoaluminate (ferrite) clinker. The invention also relates to the use of alternative raw materials for clinker production, for example raw materials based on industrial byproducts, including those of low quality, such as lump slag and ash having a low glass content and/or a high free lime content and/or a high content of crystalline high-temperature phases, as well as naturally occurring rocks and rock glasses of comparative chemical composition.
US09067824B1
The present disclosure relates to methods for controlling the chemical composition of a first pozzolan by blending it with a different pozzolan having a different chemical composition. The method includes intimately mixing the two pozzolans and using a chemical analyzer to determine a chemical characteristic of the pozzolan fraction being produced. The output from the chemical analyzer is then used to control the blending of the first and second outputs to maintain the chemical characteristic within a desired range.
US09067819B2
This disclosure involves a new spinel and glass micro-composite material and process for making such. The composite has excellent transmission in the 0.5-5.0 μm wavelength region suitable for various visible and mid IR applications utilizing windows, domes and other geometric shapes. The composite can be made at a temperature about 40% lower than the glass melting temperature and about 50% lower than the spinel sintering temperature. The composite material has high modulus and fracture toughness which are important for impact resistance in armor and other practical applications.
US09067816B2
The disclosed Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition (PCVD) process uses the injection of plasma-reactive gas to control deposition oscillation and refractive-index oscillation (e.g., alpha oscillation). This PCVD process, which may employ a modified PCVD apparatus, achieves more uniform glass deposition. This, in turn, results in optical preforms and optical fibers having more uniform optical properties.
US09067809B2
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for anaerobic wastewater treatment with a membrane, which effectively generates biogas and suppresses fouling on a membrane surface by performing anaerobic treatment to wastewater. The apparatus for anaerobic wastewater treatment with a membrane includes: an anaerobic reactor for performing anaerobic treatment to wastewater and generating biogas; an anaerobic membrane bio-reactor for filtering wastewater discharged from the anaerobic reactor by means of a membrane module and providing an additional anaerobic treatment space for the wastewater; submerged membrane modules provided in the anaerobic membrane bio-reactor to filter wastewater; rotating disks provided at both sides of the submerged membrane module to induce turbulence to the wastewater by means of rotation; and a second media provided in the anaerobic membrane bio-reactor to circulate according to the flow of the wastewater so that foulants on a surface of the membrane module are detached.
US09067807B2
The present invention provides systems, methods and devices for removing contaminants from an aqueous stream. In embodiments, these systems and methods may be applied to particular applications, for example removal of contaminants in aqueous streams associated with the petroleum industry.
US09067806B2
Process for the purification of an aqueous stream coming from the Fischer-Tropsch reaction comprising a treatment with at least one inorganic base, an evaporation treatment, a distillation and/or stripping treatment and a treatment with at least one organic base. The process allows at least a part of the aqueous stream coming from the Fischer-Tropsch reaction to be used as process water in the production plant of synthesis gas subsequently sent to a Fischer-Tropsch plant for the production of hydrocarbons.
US09067797B2
The invention provides methods and systems for producing large size diamonds. The methods include using carbon containing gases and supplementary gases to form reaction zones that are suitable for diamonds to grow; controlling the temperatures that are suitable for diamonds to grow; and keeping the small size seeds in motion in the reaction zones to form large size diamonds. The method provides controlling the high temperature endurable small size seeds at suitable temperatures for diamonds to grow and keep them in motion in the reaction zones. The invention also provides systems that allow all the surfaces of the high temperature endurable small size seeds continually extend to form diamonds, then to form large size diamonds. The invention provides a large-scale, low cost production of large size diamonds.
US09067768B1
The present invention provides devices and methods for remotely illuminating the hook assembly and/or other load-end portions (e.g., a ball hook, block hook, crane spreader-bar and the like) of a crane rigging.
US09067763B2
An exemplary bearing cartridge assembly includes an inner sleeve. An outer housing is supported for rotation relative to the inner sleeve. A bearing member within the outer housing and received about the inner sleeve facilitates rotation of the outer housing relative to the inner sleeve. The bearing member has an axial dimension (e.g., a width) that is smaller than an axial inner dimension of the outer housing. The bearing member is positioned relative to the inner sleeve and the outer housing to provide a first lubricant space between one side wall of the outer housing and the bearing member and a second lubricant space between an opposite side wall of the outer housing and the bearing member. There is at least one through passage between the first and second lubricant spaces to allow lubricant to move between them.
US09067758B2
An acceleration sensor of a webbing take-up device is provided with a sensor housing in which a spherical body is placed. A rotating shaft is formed at a longitudinal wall of a support wall of the sensor housing, and rotatably supported at a shaft receiving hole formed in a hanger support wall. A position of formation of the rotating shaft is set to be upward relative to a center of gravity of the sensor housing whose state where a sensor lever is installed at the support wall and the spherical body is placed on a curved-surface of a placing portion. Consequently, even without a heavy body being attached at the lower side of the spherical body or the lower side of the sensor housing, the sensor housing rotates responsively when the take-up device main body is tilted. Therefore, the acceleration sensor can be reduced in size.
US09067755B2
A modular element of creel including a structure having at least one support suitable to support a reel or yarn spool; the structure is in the form of a solid polygon and includes a feeder device suitable to allow the feeding of the thread developed by such spool with at least one characteristic, selected from the characteristics of tension and speed, maintained constant and equal to a preset fixed value or function of the operational phase of the machine. The structure is able to be modularly coupled to other similar structures to allow the feeding of more yarn to a textile machine. Every yarn fed by every modular element having its own selected characteristic defined by the feeder device associated with such modular element.
US09067750B2
A splicing machine having an alignment mechanism is provided for aligning an end edge of a web of paperboard in preparation for splicing two webs of paperboard. An image display device such as a mirror or display screen allow an operator to view images of the end edge of the web and the alignment position to facilitate aligning the end edge at the alignment position. The alignment position is typically marked by an alignment marker produced by light, such as a laser beam.
US09067745B2
A medium processor is provided with a medium storage which can house two small storing boxes next to each other and has plural slots into which the two small storing boxes can be detachably loaded. Thus, the two small storing boxes can be loaded in a space equivalent to one conventional bill storing box, and the small storing boxes can be detached for servicing even when there are two small storing boxes loaded in one slot. Thus, various kinds of media can be handled without impairing maintainability.
US09067744B2
A robot system includes a first loading portion, a plurality of second loading portions provided for each sorting destination, and a robot configured to sort the plurality of articles loaded onto the first loading portion, and to transfer the articles to the second loading portions. The robot includes a robot arm, a tool, a first sensor configured to acquire distance information, an article identifying portion configured to identify the article loaded onto the first loading portion, a second sensor configured to acquire outer shape information, and to acquire sorting destination information, a first calculating portion configured to calculate a shape and size of the article, a sorting destination determining portion configured to determine a sorting destination, and a first operation control portion configured to control the robot arm and the tool so that the article is stacked onto the identified second loading portion.
US09067737B2
A belt-deviation suppression structure includes a contact member, receivers, and multiple link members. The contact member is in contact with a rotatable belt and extends longitudinally in an intersecting direction that intersects a moving direction of the belt. The receivers are provided at opposite sides of the contact member in the intersecting direction and receive a pressing force from the belt as the belt moves in the intersecting direction. The link members are arranged in the intersecting direction. Each link member has a first end that is connected to a base in a rotatable manner about an axis extending in the moving direction and has a second end that is connected to the contact member in a rotatable manner about an axis extending in the moving direction.
US09067735B2
A paper feeding apparatus includes a transfer roller that provides a transfer force of a first direction onto the upper surface of a recording medium; a retard roller that faces the transfer roller to form a transfer nip and provides a transfer force of a second direction opposite to the first direction onto the lower surface of the recording medium; a driving unit that drives the retard roller; and a power delivery unit that connects the driving unit to the retard roller by using a magnetic force and provides a magnetic driving force that is smaller than the transfer force provided by the transfer roller when one recording medium exists in the transfer nip and is larger than a frictional force between two or more recording media when the two or more recording media exist in the transfer nip.
US09067722B2
A packaging device can include a resilient member formed of two layers of different material, connected together such as by heat sealing. The layers can be made from different materials or the same materials having different thicknesses, modules of elasticity, melting index, or other different characteristics.
US09067721B2
A height adjustable shipping container usable as a building structure. The container having vertical corner columns and at least three side walls which may be transported at a reduced height as a shipping container and expanded at the receiving end. At least some of the vertical corner columns expand in length during expansion of the reduced height shipping container. The shipping container is able to transport therein structural components, such as wall, panel, roof and even fittings to build a building structure that is the equivalent in floor area to that of at least two shipping containers.
US09067718B2
A method for folding a liner for packaging and/or insertion into an overpack. The method may include providing a liner comprising a substantially tubular body portion and a closed top and bottom, and a fitment formed in or affixed to the top of the liner, forming a gusset in the bottom panel of the liner, forming a gusset in the body portion of the liner, and fan-folding the liner. In some embodiments, the top of the liner may be a substantially circular top panel and the bottom of the liner may be a substantially circular bottom panel, with the top panel being attached to one end of the tubular body portion and the bottom panel being attached to an opposite end of the tubular body portion. In other embodiments, the liner may be a flexible, blow molded liner, thereby having no weld seams.
US09067715B2
The bottle cap, this invention, is designed to be suitable for the container necks of different size. As recommended, the bottle cap with two connection sections may be assembled in the container necks showing the different sizes of 26.78 MM and 28.0 MM.
US09067711B2
An assembly is provided for storing and dispensing flowable material. The assembly includes a reusable tube dimensionally formed to fit within the body of a dispensing gun. A separate pouch member is provided for storing a quantity of flowable material and is formed to be removably positioned within the tube. A nozzle is provided on the pouch for directing discharge of the material from the pouch. The pouch is provided with a fitment at one end. Cooperative elements are formed between the end wall of the tube and the fitment, which engage upon insertion of the pouch into the tube. A disk is provided for removable attachment to the plunger portion of the gun. A hook or gripping device projects from the disk for engagement of the end of the pouch.
US09067710B2
A remotely openable containment system employs a bag which receives contents such as grounding cement and employs a closure member which is secured by a bale. The closure member is attached to one end of the bag adjacent an opening. End portions of the bag are wound around the closure member and secured by the bale. The bale may include a pair of laterally spaced pins which are received in spaced bores of the closure member. At the installation site, the bag is lowered by a line into a hole. At the bottom of the hole, a line on the bale is pulled to release the bale and to permit the contents to discharge through the opening in the bag. Both the bag and the bale are removable from the hole by the attached lines.
US09067702B2
A device and a method for applying elastic film sleeves to containers, including a plurality of revolving stretching units for receiving and stretching the film sleeves so that the containers can be slid into the film sleeves. The stretching units include spreading fingers driven by servo motors, such that the stretching of the film sleeves can be optimized independently of a circulation speed of the stretching units and flexibly adapted to different film types and container sizes.
US09067698B2
A method for the filling of beverage cans in a beverage can filling plant, a method for the filling of cans in a can filling plant, and an apparatus therefor.
US09067695B1
A method, system, and apparatus are disclosed for a solar array transfer orbit power maximizer. The present disclosure teaches a solar array circuitry design that can produce more stowed transfer orbit power than the traditional solar array. The disclosed design is able to achieve the additional stowed transfer orbit power by simply reassigning circuits without adding additional solar cells. In one or more embodiments, the disclosed method involves allocating a first plurality of solar cells to at least one circuit on an inboard panel of the solar array, and allocating a second plurality of solar cells to at least one circuit on an outboard panel of the solar array. The method further involves assigning at least one solar cell from at least one circuit on the inboard panel that is not needed during beginning of life (BOL) to at least one circuit on the outboard panel of the solar array.
US09067693B2
An ephemeris refinement system includes satellites with imaging devices in earth orbit to make observations of space-based objects (“target objects”) and a ground-based controller that controls the scheduling of the satellites to make the observations of the target objects and refines orbital models of the target objects. The ground-based controller determines when the target objects of interest will be near enough to a satellite for that satellite to collect an image of the target object based on an initial orbital model for the target objects. The ground-based controller directs the schedules to be uploaded to the satellites, and the satellites make observations as scheduled and download the observations to the ground-based controller. The ground-based controller then refines the initial orbital models of the target objects based on the locations of the target objects that are derived from the observations.
US09067690B2
An anomaly detection and cataloging system is described that includes a handheld probe having a probe tip, a user interface, and a communications interface. The system further includes a system controller and a probe locating device. The probe is operable, via the user interface, for transmitting, via the communications interface, a user selected anomaly type to the system controller, the anomaly type being associated with a manufactured part or airplane on the ground (AOG). The probe locating device is operable to provide to the system controller a location associated with the probe tip, and the system is programmed to associate the user selected anomaly type with the location associated with the probe tip.
US09067688B2
Turboshaft engine attached to a pylon of the fuselage of an aircraft by a failsafe suspension system
A suspension system including a front suspension plane located at an intermediate turboshaft engine casing and connecting same to a pylon, a rear suspension plane located at an exhaust casing of the turboshaft engine and connecting same to the pylon, and a failsafe intermediate suspension plane located between the front and rear planes and including at least one connecting rod connecting the turboshaft engine having a structural outer casing to the pylon, the connecting rod mounted on the turboshaft engine with a predetermined clearance that renders the connecting rod inoperable while the suspension system of the rear plane is operating. The connecting rod is advantageously arranged between the outer casing and the pylon, and an element made of a flexible material is combined with the connecting rod to create the predetermined clearance by an elastically deformable nature thereof.
US09067687B2
A method for operating an aircraft that is driven forward in the air with a propulsion system in the form of two engines of the jet or propeller type one on each side of the fuselage is disclosed. During forward movement of the plane, the two engines move in a mutual synchronous relationship relative to the longitudinal axis of the plane. The propulsion system is used for aircraft as well as for ships.
US09067671B2
A method for locating markers in an image captured by a mobile device moving about an operating space. The method includes preprocessing an image to generate a set of image data, locating fixed features of markers by tracing edges of the fixed features, and extracting variable data payloads of each of the markers associated with the located fixed features. The fixed features of each of the markers may include a pair of parallel lines extending along opposite sides of a data area containing the variable data payload, and each of the lines extends a distance beyond each exposed end of the data area to avoid missing data when markers are not arranged orthogonally to the scan direction. The preprocessing involves rotating or skewing the image to provide rotated or skewed versions of the image to facilitate locating markers regardless of their angular orientation in the image.
US09067669B2
A hold open rod system is provided. The system may include, a cylindrical bracket having a first portion with a first bore for coupling to an elongate tensile member and a second portion remote from the first portion, having a second bore for coupling to a fastener; and a tubular jacket surrounding the at least a portion of the bracket, the elongate tensile member and at least a portion of the fastener. A method of constructing a hold open rod may be provided. The method may include: attaching a bracket to an end of a composite tube; attaching the composite material to an elongate tension member; operatively connecting a fastener to the elongate tension member; and extending the elongate tension member through at least part of the bracket.
US09067665B1
A steering system for a marine pod drive is disclosed. The system includes a driving pinion attached to a driving shaft. The system further includes a driven gear mounted to a driven shaft. Moreover, the system includes an intermediate gear mounted to an intermediate shaft and in mesh with the driving pinion. Furthermore, an intermediate pinion is attached to the intermediate shaft. The intermediate pinion is in mesh with the driven gear on the driven shaft. Moreover, the intermediate pinion may be fastened with the intermediate gear by a shear pin such that the intermediate pinion rotates with the intermediate gear. The shear pin may be configured to shear when a torque transmitted through the system exceeds a rated torque value, thereby causing the intermediate gear to rotate freely on the intermediate shaft.
US09067661B2
A ship includes: a high-pressure injection engine using fuel gas as fuel to obtain a propulsion power of the ship; a generator engine using fuel gas as fuel to generate electricity; a motor generating a power by using the electricity generated from the generator engine; a propulsion propelling the ship; a main clutch connecting the high-pressure injection engine to the propulsion; an auxiliary clutch connecting the gear box to the propulsion; and a gear box disposed in a front side of the propulsion and power-connected to the main clutch and the auxiliary clutch. The high-pressure injection engine and the motor are selectively power-connected to the propulsion to obtain the propulsion power of the ship.
US09067654B2
A leash for a recreational water craft has a body attachment section and a rope. The rope has a more elastic rope section and a less elastic rope section connected end to end. The more elastic and less elastic rope sections are tethered through outer ends to the body attachment section. The less elastic rope section is longer than the more elastic rope section in a non-stretched state and is tethered to the craft in use through a craft rope sliding element. The less elastic rope section has a blocking element preventing passage through the craft rope sliding element. When the body attachment section is pulled away from the craft, the more elastic rope section expands, allowing the less elastic rope section to slip through the craft rope sliding element.
US09067653B2
In one example, a board suitable for use in water sports includes a body that includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The board also includes a retractable fin connected to the body and configured to assume extended and retracted positions. In the extended position, a substantial portion of the retractable fin extends below the lower surface of the body, and in the retracted position, a substantial portion of the retractable fin resides within a recess at least partly defined by the body.
US09067651B1
A towable aquatic vehicle with flexible wings is disclosed. The towable aquatic vehicle includes one or more elongated inflatable tubes and two flexible inflatable wings. The one or more elongated inflatable tubes have first and second outer sides, each defining an elongated edge of the one or more elongated inflatable tubes. A first inflatable wing is pivotally secured to the first side of the one or more elongated inflatable tubes, and a second inflatable wing is pivotally secured to the second side of the one or more elongated inflatable tubes. The first inflatable wing and the second inflatable wing are positioned opposite with respect to each other. The towable aquatic vehicle with flexible wings provides steerability to the rider/user and allows the user to ride the towable aquatic vehicle in various different riding positions.
US09067645B2
A system for support of a vertical cargo tank resting on an insulation layer against the hull of a vessel is arranged such that vertical forces are supported through the base of the tank. Horizontal forces are supported by support point pairs. These pairs are designed to direct applied forces generally through the middle of the shell of the tank in order not to apply bending moment to the shell of the tank. The base of the tank is flexible to generally distribute transferring forces from the tank directly to the bottom of the vessel in order not to apply bending moment to the shell of the tank or to the bottom of the vessel.
US09067643B2
An ocean going vessel with interchangeable superstructure and hull in which the superstructure has control units for controlling propulsion and steering, as well as components for communication and navigation. The superstructure and the hull each have an interface providing quick connect and disconnect capability between the control units of the superstructure and the components being controlled of the hull. A system for interchanging superstructures and hulls for ocean going vessels is enabled in which the superstructure of an inbound vessel is removed and transferred to an outbound hull with the use of a crane at the port facility. This facilitates quick turnaround time of the superstructure and crew of the inbound vessel. This also enables inbound ship hulls to be inspected without delaying the outbound hull that has been preloaded from being shipped out of port with the transferred superstructure.
US09067637B2
Embodiments of the present invention comprise a folding handlebar to allow the rider to adopt an aerodynamic riding position without superfluous bars protruding left and right and a control system so the rider has full access to braking and gear changing whether riding in the aero or non aero position.
US09067634B2
A motorcycle is provided with a front fork cover which can suppress traveling resistance as much as possible while increasing a cooling effect of a radiator within a required range. A pair of radiators as viewed in a side view are arranged above a crankcase of an engine. A front fork is arranged over the radiators in the vertical direction as viewed in a side view. Upper surfaces of front fork covers arranged above lower ends of the radiators in the vertical direction extend toward the radiators, and lower surfaces of the front fork covers arranged below the lower ends of the radiators extend toward lateral sides of the crankcase extending to the outside more than the radiators.
US09067632B2
Wheeled vehicle, comprising of one front wheel, two side wheels and one rear wheel, configured on a chassis frame in a symmetrical rhombus (diamond) layout. The non-steered front wheel is turned by pedals using human power, similar or exactly in bicycle use design, or with electric motor power. The two parallel side wheels in one axis are perpendicular to the chassis frame, allowing them to swivel in unison for steering the vehicle without elaborate axle pivoting apparatus. The rear wheel is powered by an electric motor, hybrid motor or liquid fuel motor. The rear wheel is attached longitudinally with the center of the chassis frame so that it swivels also in unison for steering with the side wheels.
US09067624B2
A cross member for a frame of a vehicle. The cross member provides a particularly high stiffness of the frame and has a particularly low weight. A first support arrangement (18) having 4, 5, 6 or more support legs connects a cross member (10) to a first frame rail (16a) of the frame (12), and a second support arrangement (24) having 4, 5, 6 or more further support legs (26a-d) connect the cross member (10) to a second frame rail (16b) of the frame (12). At least two of the four support legs of the respective first and second support arrangement are bent upwards from the base portion, the other support legs (20b, 20c) being bent downwards.
US09067617B2
A vehicle includes a vehicle frame, a wheel and tire assembly, and a wheel turn initiator system. The wheel and tire assembly is mounted with respect to the vehicle frame and is selectively rotatable about a generally vertical axis. The wheel turn initiator system is mounted with respect to the frame and has a member. The wheel turn initiator system is configured such that an external force applied to the front end of the vehicle causes the member to engage the wheel and tire assembly and thereby cause the wheel and tire assembly to rotate about the axis.
US09067607B2
The disclosure is directed to a control system for a train consist. The control system may have a first controller associated with a first locomotive and a second controller associated with a second locomotive. The control system may also include an input device configured to generate a first signal indicative of a desired consist performance, and at least one sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of an actual performance of the first and second locomotives. The second controller may be configured to determine a first performance setting of the first locomotive and a different second performance setting of the second locomotive based on the first signal, and automatically adjust the first and second performance settings based on a difference between the first and second signals.
US09067604B2
In a control device for a vehicle that controls a revolution speed of a drive power source or a gear ratio of a transmission coupled to an output side of the drive power source in the vehicle equipped with the drive power source and the transmission, the control device is configured to determine an index that is based on a running state of the vehicle, and to control a required revolution speed of the drive power source or a required gear ratio for the transmission on the basis of the index.
US09067597B2
A vehicle drive control device in a vehicle has an engine and an electric motor for running, the vehicle running with at least one of the engine and the electric motor for running used as a drive power source for running, the vehicle drive control device rotating the engine remaining in a no-drive state if a vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined determination vehicle speed during vehicle running with the engine in the no-drive state, the vehicle drive control device making the determination vehicle speed higher when a gradient of a running road surface on which the vehicle is running is larger, the gradient having a positive direction corresponding to descent.
US09067594B2
Systems and methods for operating and hybrid driveline are presented. In one example, driver demand torque may be supplied to vehicle wheels via a hydraulic torque path and a friction torque path. Torque is distributed between the friction torque path and the hydraulic torque path in a way that ensures that driver demand torque is met and the friction torque path transfers torque up to its capacity.
US09067573B2
To operate an electrically controlled pressurized-fluid brake system, an external brake request signal is received, a curve radius of a vehicle track of the vehicle is determined, at least one limit value is determined based on the curve radius, at least one variable representing a brake pressure to be supplied to wheel brakes is compared with the at least one limit value, the at least one variable is limited based on the comparison, the at least one variable is outputted, and braking pressure is supplied to the wheel brakes based on the outputted at least one variable.
US09067563B2
In a head protection airbag apparatus, an airbag includes an airbag body and a tension cloth. The airbag body has an end side inflation portion which is arranged in an end portion on the tension cloth side. The end side inflation portion is divided from other general inflation sections in the airbag body by a division portion. The tension cloth is in an arranged state so as to cover an inner vehicle side of the end side inflation portion, allows the base portion side to be joined to an front edge side of the end side inflation portion, is inserted into a slit formed in the division portion while being inverted so as to cover an outer vehicle side of the end side inflation portion, and allows the leading end side to be fixed to the vehicle body side.
US09067556B2
Multi-piece constructions for an illuminated emblem assembly for connection to an airbag cover are provided herein. The multi-piece constructions include non-permanent means for connecting the illuminated emblem assembly to the airbag cover. An example emblem assembly can include an illumination source, an emblem portion having one or more translucent areas and a carrier portion. The emblem portion can include a decorative film and a lens, where the decorative film is coupled to the lens. The carrier portion can be configured to attach to the emblem portion. For example, the illumination source can be arranged between the emblem portion and the carrier portion when the emblem portion and the carrier portion are connected. The emblem portion and the illumination source can also be aligned such that at least one of the one or more translucent areas is illuminated by light passing through the emblem portion from the illumination source.
US09067549B2
A vehicle frame is provided having a frame. The frame includes a main rail and a lateral rail. A bracket is operably coupled to the main rail. The vehicle frame assembly also includes a wedged shape deflecting member. The wedged shape deflecting member has a first end which is operably coupled to the bracket and a second end which is operable between a standard use position and a collision event position. The standard use position is where the second end is spaced a predetermined distance from the main rail. The collision event position is when the second end is in abutting contact with the main rail. During a collision event, the second end moves from the standard use position to the collision event position such that the deflecting member absorbs and deflects energy imparted on the frame.
US09067545B2
Apparatus and methods provide a spring clip for use in a bracket assembly, such as a bracket assembly used to secure a ceiling panel to an aircraft or other vehicle or structure. According to embodiments described herein, a spring clip may include a spring portion according to a configuration of a space formed between a gonzo and a hinge.
US09067535B2
A vehicle lighting apparatus that can be used to increase the visibility profile of a vehicle is described. The apparatus includes a base adapted to connect to a vehicle frame; a power supply; and an elongated light source supported by the base and coupled to the power supply. The elongated light source is adapted to extend above the vehicle frame with respect to a surface the vehicle frame is to traverse thereon.
US09067532B2
Adjustment device of the position of a first part of a lighting and/or signaling device of a motor vehicle in relation to a second part of this device. The adjustment device has a screw in mechanical liaison with the first part and in helical liaison with the second part, the helical liaison comprising: a sliding pivot liaison linking the screw to the second part, the screw being clipped into a bore which has an opening according to a first axis (X) and a conformation completed on the second part which matches the threads of the screw.
US09067528B2
A traction control display device for a vehicle having traction control for suppressing slipping of a wheel in response to operation of an accelerator by a driver. The traction control display device includes a meter and a traction control system (TCS) indicator. The meter has a needle movable over a dial that indicates an engine rotational speed. The TCS indicator indicates that the traction control is in an activated state. The TCS indicator is disposed in a region of parts of high engine rotational speeds within a movable range of the needle within the meter.
US09067522B2
A kayak holder configurable between an open, load-receiving configuration and a closed, stored configuration can include an elongate support arm and a base. The base can be releasably mountable upon a load bar of a carrying vehicle. The elongate support arm can be anchored to a hub having an axle rotatably coupled to the base. The base can comprise a keyway assembly that releasably receives a mating key assembly on the axle. The elongate support arm can have a locked position where the key assembly is interference-engaged in the keyway assembly and an unlocked position where the key assembly axially displaced from the locked position out of interference-engagement with the keyway assembly. The key assembly can include a key adapted to be located in a keyway of the keyway assembly in the locked position, thereby blocking rotation of the arm relative to the base.
US09067519B2
An attaching member includes a cover attaching portion to which a portion of a cover directly or indirectly attaches, a board attaching portion to which one end of a board member attaches, and an engaging portion that engages with a frame member. The portion of the cover is attached to the cover attaching portion, the board member is attached to the board attaching portion, mutual positions of the portion of the cover and the board member are fixed, and the engaging portion is engaged with the frame member.
US09067512B2
Described are adjustable seats including an upper frame with a pair of support arms, a lower frame with a pair of support legs, and a coupling system with an upper rod and a lower rod. As examples, the upper rod and the lower rod are pivotally coupled to each of the pair of support arms and the pair of support legs. A linear actuator is coupled to the upper frame, and a track is coupled to the lower frame, wherein the linear actuator is configured to travel along the track. The linear actuator may comprise a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to a coupling location on the lower frame and the second end is coupled to a coupling location on the coupling system.
US09067511B2
In a vehicle floor tray thermoformed from a sheet of thermoplastic polymeric material of substantially uniform thickness, a central panel includes a reservoir that has plural elongate hollow baffles which act to elevate the foot or shoe of the occupant above fluid collected by the reservoir, and also act to impede lateral movement of fluid in the reservoir. Heights of first and second side panels, measured at their junction, are substantially similar to each other. The vehicle floor tray may be one of a product line of such floor trays having the same functional characteristics but substantially conforming to respective and differently shaped foot wells in different vehicles.
US09067509B2
A seat occupancy determination apparatus includes first and second load sensors arranged at one end of a lower side of a seat in a width direction, and a load decrease determination process portion determining a load decrease caused by a turning of a vehicle in a case where an inclination of a decrease of a load detected by the load sensors is gentle in a state where a seat belt detection portion detects a disengagement state of a seat belt while an occupant seated state is determined by a determination portion, the load decrease determination process portion determining the load decrease caused by an occupant moving away from the seat and that the occupant is not seated on the seat in a case where the inclination of the decrease of the load detected by the load sensors is steep.
US09067507B2
An electric vehicle is provided in which left and right drive wheels are driven by respective motors, and which enables slip control in a simple structure while preventing a driver who used to drive an engine vehicle with a differential from feeling uncomfortable. The vehicle includes a controller having a computer controlling the two motors including a basic control unit, a slip determiner, and a dual-wheel-drive-reduction unit. The control unit determines driving forces of the motors such that the forces are equal to each other, depending on a depression of an accelerator pedal. The determiner detects slippage between each of the wheels, and a road surface. The dual-wheel-drive-reduction unit reduces, when the determiner determines that greater slippage has occurred at at least one of the wheels, drive currents of the motors.
US09067504B1
A battery system includes a traction battery and at least one controller that implement a model of the traction battery. The system may monitor current input and voltage output of the traction battery. The at least one controller may inject a plurality of current signals into the battery when it detects the input current to be approximately zero and a corresponding terminal voltage to be generally constant. Each of the injected current signals has a discrete frequency. The controller may measure voltage responses to the injected currents indicative of impedances of the traction battery at the discrete frequencies. The controller may output parameters representing an equivalent circuit model of the traction battery based on the impedances, and operate the battery based on the parameters.
US09067493B2
A tractor (100) comprises an internal combustion engine (107) for delivering torque, wheels (101-104) or tracks for imparting a propulsive force to the ground, and a power takeoff shaft (110) for delivering torque to implements attached thereto. The power takeoff shaft is driven by a mechanical drive connection to the engine. An electrical motor/generator (115) is drivingly connected to the engine, and at least one electrical motor (121-124) is arranged to deliver a propulsion force to the wheels or tracks. The motor is electrically connected to, and powered by, the electrical motor/generator. A battery (120) is connected to the electrical motor/generator and to the electrical motor so that electrical energy can be passed therebetween. The motor/generator can also operate as a motor so that the power takeoff shaft is at least partially powered by electrical energy from the battery.
US09067491B2
Construction capable of improving the convenience of an electric automobile is achieved by making the drive apparatus for an electric automobile in which a planetary-gear transmission 11 is assembled more compact and simple, and increasing the distance traveled per charge. The planetary-gear transmission 11 comprises a single-pinion first planetary-gear mechanism 12 and a double-pinion second planetary-gear mechanism 13, and reduces power from an electric motor 1a by a desired reduction ratio before transmitting that power to a driven-side rotating shaft 5a. A first braking device 14 switches a ring gear 22 and a second braking device 15 switches a second sun gear 19 between a state of being allowed to rotate and a state of being prevented from rotating with respect to a fixed portion.
US09067489B2
A system for preventing the illumination of a vehicle check engine light by notifying the driver that the fuel door is not closed. The system includes an interference member, a sensor for detecting the position of a fuel door, and a processor to communicate a detectable signal to the driver. The interference member prevents the fuel door from closing if the fuel cap is not properly seated in the fuel injection port, and the sensor detects the position of the door. The sensor can communicate the position of the door to the processor which in turn can send a detectable signal to the driver that the fuel door is ajar and the fuel cap is loose. Furthermore, in vehicles equipped with power slide doors, the processor can also disable the operation of the power slide door to prevent the power slide door from colliding with the fuel door.
US09067487B2
A collapsible fuel-door housing is provided and may include a first housing and a second housing slidably attached to the first housing and moveable from a first state overlapping the first housing to a second state adjacent to the first housing. The fuel-door housing may also include a locking mechanism moveable between an unlocked state permitting movement of the second housing into the second state and a locked state restricting relative movement between the first housing and the second housing to maintain the second housing in the second state.
US09067485B2
A drive device 1A includes: electric motors 2A and 2B that outputs drive powers; and planetary gear reducers 12A and 12B disposed between axles 10A and 10B connected to cylindrical shafts 16A and 16B serving as the output shafts of the electric motors 2A and 2B and to rear wheels LWr and RWr. The drive device 1A further includes: a one-way power transmission device that transmits the one-way rotation power of the electric motors 2A and 2B to the axles 10A and 10B; and a two-way power transmission device that transmits the two-way rotation power of the electric motors 2A and 2B to the axles 10A and 10B. The one-way power transmission device and the two-way power transmission device are disposed on transmission passages from the electric motors 2A and 2B to the axles 10A and 10B.
US09067483B2
An electric vehicle drive mechanism comprises a plurality of alternators, an energy storage system, a gear system, and a telescoping shaft. The telescoping shaft comprises shaft portions that extend along an axle of the vehicle. When the vehicle is in motion, the telescoping shaft drives the alternators through the gear system. Electrical energy generated by the alternators is supplied to the energy storage system.
US09067469B2
A wheel stabilization mechanism includes an actuator configured to be coupled to a vehicle body and a wheel stabilizer configured to be movably coupled to the vehicle body such that the wheel stabilizer is configured to move with respect to a wheel. The actuator is configured to move the wheel stabilizer with respect to the wheel from a disengaged position toward an engaged position in response to a force applied to the vehicle body. In the engaged position, the wheel stabilizer is configured to inhibit at least a portion of the wheel from moving with respect to the vehicle body to minimize movement of the wheel with respect to the vehicle body.
US09067464B2
It is an object to ensure the strength of a carcass line, enhance durability with respect to high applied loads, and be able to suppress the input of compressive force with respect to a carcass ply without increasing mass and cost. When W denotes a distance from a tire equatorial plane (CL) to a tire axial direction outermost point (P) of a carcass body portion (22C) and D denotes a tire radial direction height from bead base portions (30) to a carcass body portion (22A) at the tire equatorial plane (CL), a radius of curvature (R1) of a carcass ply (12) in a range from the tire equatorial plane (CL) to a position (P1) located 0.6 W away from the tire equatorial plane (CL) in the tire axial direction, a radius of curvature (R2) of a carcass body portion (22B) in a range from the position (P1) to a position (P2) located 0.7 D on the tire radial direction outer side from bead base portions (30), and a radius of curvature (R3) of the carcass body portion (22C) in a range from the position (P2) to a position (P3) located 0.3 D on the tire radial direction outer side from the bead base portions are such that 0.07≦R2/R1≦0.11 and 0.5≦R2/R3≦0.7.
US09067462B1
Apparatus for holding and drying paint brushes is utilized with a paint bucket and includes a lid structure including brush handle retention elements for covering the bucket, a base containing liquid absorbent material to absorb paint or other liquids from the paint brushes, and a connector connecting the base and lid structure.
US09067446B1
A printer detects inoperative inkjets during printing of three dimensional objects. The printer includes a substrate onto which a printhead ejects building and support material in a test pattern. An ultrasonic sensor scans the substrate on the unprinted side and measures thicknesses at a plurality of locations on the substrate. The thickness measurements are used to identify inoperative inkjets in the printhead and the printing of an object can be suspended to take remedial action with regard to the printhead before formation of the object is completed.
US09067441B2
The disclosure discloses a medium cartridge includes a first record medium roll, a second record medium roll, and a connecting arm. The first record medium roll is stored in a first storage part. The second record medium roll is stored in a second storage part. The connecting arm connects the first record medium roll and the second record medium roll, and comprises first bracket parts and second bracket parts. The first bracket parts sandwich the first record medium roll to hold the first record medium roll. The pair of second bracket parts sandwich the second record medium roll to hold the second record medium roll. The first bracket parts comprises a substantially oval-shaped first guide part capable of entering a first lead-in groove. The second bracket parts comprises a substantially circular-shaped second guide part capable of entering a second lead-in.
US09067439B2
A method and apparatus for feeding media sheets in an image production device is disclosed. The method may include applying air downward to a top of a trailing edge of a media sheet located at a top of a media stack that is to be fed to an image production section of the image production device, the applied air causing the top media sheet to separate from the media stack, and feeding the separated top media sheet to the image production section.
US09067435B2
Various disclosed embodiments relate to structures and methods for printing systems. In some embodiments, a device, e.g., a festoon, may be used to accumulate excess material. The festoon may be located between a print head and a finishing component to eliminate misalignment/mis-registration difficulties between printed images and finishing options. In some embodiments, registration images and other procedures may be used alone or in conjunction with the festoon placement to further reduce errors and waste.
US09067429B2
In order to obtain homogeneous ink for CIJ printers, an inkjet is divided into individual equally large ink droplets, at least part of the ink droplets is provided with an electric charge, and the ink droplets are guided by a deflection device. The ink droplets which are deflected by a predefined amount are collected by a homogenization droplet catcher and are used for printing.
US09067425B2
A fluid cartridge for an inkjet printer includes an inner reservoir containing a printing fluid. The reservoir includes walls enclosing an internal space having a variable volume for storage of the printing fluid and a port for dispensing the printing liquid. The reservoir includes a rigid framework and one or more elastically deformable sections. The cartridge further includes an outlet for connection to the printer, an outer housing in which the reservoir is housed, an electronic storage device configured to store data relating to the contents of the cartridge, and at least one electrical contact associated with the electronic storage device and provided on a substrate. The reservoir provides a reduction in pressure of the internal space whereby the equilibrium pressure difference between the internal space and the surrounding atmosphere increases substantially monotonically in magnitude as liquid is dispensed.
US09067424B1
An ink cartridge includes: an ink storage container configured to store ink; a socket portion provided at one end of the ink storage container and configured to be fitted to and detached from a joint portion of a printing machine; an ink supply port provided in the socket portion; an inside plug configured to seal an ink passage to the ink supply port by using a biasing force coming from a direction of the ink storage container; and an inside plug lock portion configured to lock the inside plug at a position where the inside plug is pressed by an insertion shaft, and maintain a locked state of the inside plug independently of a retreating of the insertion shaft to a retreat position after a locking of the inside plug.
US09067418B2
An image recording device includes a support member, a print head, a guide mechanism and a maintenance unit. The print head is configured to eject a liquid from a nozzle at a first position facing the support member. The guide mechanism is configured to guide movement of the print head among the first position, a second position, and a third position. The maintenance unit is configured to carry out maintenance on the print head which is located at the second position, the maintenance unit being arranged at a position facing the print head which is located at the second position. The third position is a position farther than the second position with respect to the first position in a direction going from the support member toward the maintenance unit in the orthogonal direction.
US09067412B2
A printing apparatus performing printing to a print medium includes a printer having at least two line heads with a plurality of recording modules; a scanner configured to scan an image printed with the printer to obtain a scanned image; a correcting-chart printing unit configured to print first and second correcting charts in first and second line head printing areas, respectively; a scanned image collecting unit configured to collect first and second scanned images; a correction-data calculating device configured to calculate correction data by determining a reference head difference from the first scanned image, determining an individual head difference from the second scanned image, summing up the reference head difference and the individual head difference to obtain a total, the reference head difference and the total being regarded as the correction data for the first and second line heads, respectively; and an adjusting device configured to adjust a timing.
US09067410B2
Starting from a virtual representation of a flat-developing component, the method identifies and subsequently memorizes at least an assembly constituted by an image, a closed line containing the image, and reference crosses associated thereto; the assembly is paginated in the virtual representation such as to define an intermediate file from which a printing file is obtained with which an RIP software program can be loaded to pilot a printing machine. If the component is to be cut, with the aim of obtaining articles bearing relative images, data is obtained from the intermediate file for managing a cutting machine which cuts the component along the closed line.
US09067405B2
A printing device for containers, such as bottles, cans or cups, with a screen to apply a screen print onto the containers, where a squeegee holding device that is guided by a continuous track holds an squeegee in such a way that while the printed image is being applied to the container, one end of the squeegee scrapes across the screen and forces ink through the screen onto one of the containers, and where the distance between the end of the squeegee and the squeegee holding device varies. Also, a container handling device, in the manner of a bottling plant, with such a printing device and a mechanical turret designed to guide the containers to a surface of the container contact device facing away from the squeegee. Also, a method for applying ink to containers in accordance with a screen printing principle.
US09067401B2
A process for making a lithographic printing plate that includes in sequence an exposure step of imagewise exposing by means of an infrared laser a lithographic printing plate precursor that has provided above a support a positive-working recording layer including (Component A) a (meth)acrylonitrile-derived monomer unit- and styrene-derived monomer unit-containing copolymer, (Component B) a water-insoluble and alkali-soluble resin, and (Component C) an infrared absorbing agent and a development step of developing, using an aqueous alkali solution including a betaine-based surfactant or a nonionic surfactant, the aqueous alkali solution having a pH of 8.5 to 10.8, by removing an exposed area of the positive-working recording layer whose solubility in aqueous alkali solution has been increased by the exposure. There is also provided a lithographic printing plate made by the process for making a lithographic printing plate.
US09067400B2
A lithographic printing plate precursor includes a support and one or more layers, one of the one or more layers is a photosensitive layer containing an initiator compound, a polymerizable compound and a binder polymer, and a layer being in contact with the support of the one or more layers contains a copolymer containing a repeating unit having a zwitterionic structure and a repeating unit having a structure capable of interacting with a surface of the support.
US09067397B2
A hybrid flexible pipe and method of manufacture having one or more web layers over a tubular core and a polymer layer over the web layers and tubular core. A flexible helical reinforcement layer having gaps between strips is wrapped on top of the polymer layer. A second flexible helical reinforcement layer having gaps between strips is helically wrapped around the first helical reinforcement layer in the opposite direction. A sheath layer is positioned as the outermost layer. A first flexible helical anti-extrusion layer having a first anti-extrusion strip can be helically wrapped around the first flexible helical reinforcement layer in substantially the same direction as the first flexible reinforcement layer and a second flexible helical anti-extrusion layer having a second anti-extrusion strip can be helically wrapped around the at least one second flexible helical reinforcement layer in substantially the same direction as the second flexible helical reinforcement layer.
US09067366B2
A flotation device temporary repair composition comprising a wax and a metal silicate. Further ingredients may include mineral oil, elastomeric polymers, pigment agents and aroma agents. The repair composition is suitable for repairing a flotation device, such as a surfboard, by simple application into the damaged area to form an instant watertight seal, without the need for curing, and can be removed by hand at a later date to allow more permanent repair.
US09067365B2
The invention relates to a positioning device (203) for a manual welding machine (300), particularly for a plastic welding machine, comprising at least one contact shield (16) associated with the manual welding machine (300) and a positioning ring (3) associated with the material to be welded. In order to perform precise welding and to prevent the subsequent slipping of the manual welding machine (300), according to the invention, the positioning ring (3) can be fixed to the material to be welded and a contact shield (16) that can be inserted in the positioning ring (3) transfers a pressure distributed evenly over the circumference to the materials to be welded, in order to allow secure welding over a large area.
US09067351B2
The present invention provides an extrusion die that includes a manifold transition zone that comprises a varying included angle. The varying included angle provides unparalleled freedom of design to achieve diverse fluid dynamic objectives, such as reduced residence time across the manifold width, reduced transition stagnation, improved streamlining of the mass flowing through the manifold, and reduced differential clamshell deflection across the flow channel width. The manifold may be transformed from one cross-sectional shape to another cross-sectional shape beneficially related to the varying included angle, including change from a generally extended cross-sectional shape to a generally teardrop-shaped cross-section. The manifold may include a first transition zone portion that includes the varying included angle, and a second transition zone portion that includes a constant included angle, and that is particularly beneficial for receiving an internal deckle.
US09067350B2
A device for molding by impregnation of at least one reinforcing layer constituting a piece to be molded or at least one reinforcing layer covering a piece, with a resin in liquid form. The device includes a mold extending around the reinforcing layer by defining a resin circulation space, an end piece for supplying resin in the circulation space, an end piece for evacuating the surplus resin as well as elements for generating a flow of resin in the circulation space. The mold includes a flexible conduit and elements for mechanically deforming the flexible conduit to shape the circulation space according to the impregnation parameters.
US09067334B2
Methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture are shown for creating a soft textile expanded apertured film.
US09067331B2
Various embodiments of waterjet cutting systems are described herein. In one embodiment, a waterjet cutting system includes a waterjet cutting device coupled to a pressurized water source. The waterjet cutting device includes a waterjet cutting head and a fluid conduit configured to carry pressurized water to the waterjet cutting head. The fluid conduit has a wall defining a longitudinal passage through which the pressurized water travels. The fluid conduit also has a through hole extending from the outer surface of the wall to the longitudinal passage. The through hole has a cross-sectional shape with a maximum longitudinal dimension generally parallel to the longitudinal passage and a maximum latitudinal dimension generally perpendicular to the longitudinal passage. In one aspect of this embodiment, the maximum longitudinal dimension is greater than the maximum latitudinal dimension. Methods of forming fluid conduits according to various embodiments are also described herein.
US09067326B2
Disclosed herein is a system and method of controlling one or more ankles of a walking robot. In the above system and method, an input torque u to be applied to an ankle of a robot is obtained by compensating a target torque τd with an acting torque τc measured using a sensor and applied by a support surface and then an actual torque τ applied by the ankle of a foot is instead fed back into the control system. Therefore, proper balance of the walking robot is ensured.
US09067320B2
Techniques are disclosed for controlling robot pixels to display a visual representation of a real-world video texture. Mobile robots with controllable color may generate visual representations of the real-world video texture to create an effect like fire, sunlight on water, leaves fluttering in sunlight, a wheat field swaying in the wind, crowd flow in a busy city, and clouds in the sky. The robot pixels function as a display device for a given allocation of robot pixels. Techniques are also disclosed for distributed collision avoidance among multiple non-holonomic and holonomic robots to guarantee smooth and collision-free motions.
US09067315B2
A control system, a control method and a non-transitory computer readable storage medium cooperate to assist control for an autonomous robot. An interface receives recognition information from an autonomous robot (22), said recognition information including candidate target objects to interact with the autonomous robot (22). A display control unit (42) causes a display image to be displayed on a display of candidate target objects, wherein at least two of the candidate target objects are displayed with an associated indication of a target object score.
US09067308B2
A ratchet wrench comprises a body, a ratchet, a first pawl, and a second pawl. Each of the first pawl and the second pawl can move between a first position and a second position relative to the ratchet. The first position is a position where the ratchet wrench can transmit torque to said driven element from respective first pawl or second pawl, and the second position is a position where no torque is transmitted from respective first pawl or second pawl. A control member can pivot or rotate to stay in one of a first position, a second position, and a neutral position for different operations. The body has an operating part comprising a groove. The groove comprises two accommodation chambers having inclined surfaces and can accommodate the first pawl and the second pawl.
US09067305B2
A method for making a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) construction comprises providing a cemented carbide substrate comprising carbide grains cemented together by a cement material, subjecting the substrate to a first pressure treatment, treating the substrate to remove at least some of the cement material from at least a region of the substrate adjacent a boundary defined by the substrate, and subjecting the substrate to a second pressure treatment, in contact with or bonded at the boundary to a diamondiferous structure.
US09067302B2
The present invention relates to a segment-type chemical mechanical polishing conditioner and a method for manufacturing thereof. The segment-type chemical mechanical polishing conditioner comprises: a bottom substrate having a center protrusion; an abrasive unit binding layer disposed on the outside of the surface of the bottom substrate; and a plurality of abrasive units placed on the abrasive unit binding layer; wherein the abrasive units have a fan-shaped contour and are arrange along the center protrusion of the bottom substrate to form a discontinuous circular contour. Therefore, the present invention can utilize the center protrusion of the bottom substrate to adjust the arrangements of the abrasive units, and effectively improve the problem of thermal deformation of the surface of the chemical mechanical polishing conditioner during heat-hardening process, thereby enhancing the surface flatness of chemical mechanical polishing conditioner.
US09067301B2
A CMP pad conditioner comprises a plurality of abrasive segments. Each abrasive segment includes a segment blank and an abrasive layer attached to the segment blank, the abrasive layer including a superhard abrasive material. A pad conditioner substrate is also provided. Each of the plurality of abrasive segments is permanently affixed to the pad conditioner substrate in an orientation that enables removal of material from a CMP pad by the abrasive layer as the pad conditioner and the CMP pad are moved relative to one another.
US09067297B2
Polishing pads with foundation layers and polishing surface layers are described. In an example, a polishing pad for polishing a substrate includes a foundation layer. A polishing surface layer is bonded to the foundation layer. Methods of fabricating polishing pads with a polishing surface layer bonded to a foundation layer are also described.
US09067296B2
A polishing method for reducing an amount of polishing liquid used without lowering a polishing rate is provided. The polishing method comprises determining, in advance, the relationship between a supply flow rate of a polishing liquid and a polishing rate at the time the substrate is polished without controlling a surface temperature of the polishing pad, and the relationship between a supply flow rate of a polishing liquid and a polishing rate at the time the substrate is polished while controlling a surface temperature of the polishing pad at a predetermined level, and continuously supplying the polishing liquid to the surface of the polishing pad to achieve a higher polishing rate when the substrate is polished while controlling the surface temperature of the polishing pad at the predetermined level, than when the substrate is polished without controlling the surface temperature of the polishing pad.
US09067290B2
The invention relates to an attaching device, an arrangement and a method for attaching an object to be worked to a working base. The attaching device comprises: a first holder in the first end of the attaching device for attaching the attaching device to the working base or to another attaching device or to the object to be worked; a second holder in the second end of the attaching device for attaching the attaching device to the working base or to another attaching device or to the object to be worked; and a controller for controlling the holding forces produced by the first and second holders.
US09067284B2
Recycled Nd—Fe—B sintered magnets. One of the recycled Nd—Fe—B sintered magnets includes a composition of WaRbAc, where waste material W comprises material from a waste Nd—Fe—B sintered magnet, rare earth material R comprises at least one of: Nd or Pr, and elemental additives A comprises at least one of: Nd, Pr, Dy, Co, Cu, or Fe, and indices a, b, and c indicate atomic percentages of the corresponding compositions or elements and the atomic percentages of the rare earth material R and the elemental additives A have values satisfying Nd[0.1-19 at. %*s(Nd), x]Pr[0.1-19 at. %*s(Pr), y]Dy[0.1-19 at. %*s(Dy), z]Co[0 at. %, d]Cu[0 at. %, e]Fe[0 at. %, f] where [m,n] means a range from minimum m and maximum n, s(t) is the atomic percent of element t in starting composition, x=18 at. %-[81,99.9] at. %*(s(Nd)+s(Pr)+s(Dy)), y=18 at. %-[81,99.9] at. %*(s(Nd)+s(Pr)+s(Dy)), z=18 at. %-[81,99.9] at. %*(s(Nd)+s(Pr)+s(Dy)), d=3 at. %-[81,99.9] at. %*s(Co), e=0.3 at. %-[81,99.9] at. %*s(Cu), and f=77 at. %-[81,99.9] at. %*(s(Fe)+s(Co)).
US09067277B2
A method is described for simultaneously writing patterns in thin films of material coated on the opposite sides of thin glass or plastic substrates by direct write, laser ablation. The substrates are fully or partially transparent to the laser radiation used and in addition the surfaces of the substrates are not assumed to be flat. Different registered patterns may be applied at the same time to opposite sides of the substrates.
US09067269B2
A gear shaping machine is provided. The gear shaping machine includes a pair of horizontally reciprocating gear shaping heads mounted to a column. Each gear shaping head includes a spindle assembly including an integral rotary drive for indexing the spindle. The spindle assembly is carried by a spindle slide. The spindle slide also carries a plurality of bearing blocks to allow for sliding movement of the gear shaping head relative to rails mounted on the column. A linear drive arrangement is operably coupled between each gear shaping head and the column. The linear guide arrangement allows for controlled linear translation of each gear shaping head independently of one another. Each gear shaping head also includes a back-off mechanism for independently moving the spindle assembly toward the workpiece during a cutting stroke and away from the workpiece during a return stroke of each gear shaping head.
US09067259B2
The invention relates to a method for producing a body including: preparing a granular mixture including a) at least 90 wt % of mineral oxide grains; b) 0.3 to 3 wt % of resin polycondensed with formaldehyde and/or the derivatives thereof, the percentage being calculated in terms of dry resin extract; c) 0.001 to 1 wt % of a hardening agent, the percentage being calculated in terms of dry hardener extract; d) 0.005 to 0.35 wt % of a formaldehyde scavenger compound; and e) 0.2 to 3 wt % of water; contacting said granular mixture with a surface of a forming tool; and insufflating a gas flow at 50 to 380 degrees into the granular mixture for 1 to 300 seconds in order to at least partially cure said mixture, the formaldehyde scavenger being carbohydrazide.
US09067256B2
Systems and methods for producing metallic frames from wire or strip or other material of prismatic cross section, which material may subjected to plastic bending, and the ends of which are joined together. The production process for metallic frames occurs in three phases, in three separate positions, which may function independently of one another. In the first position the wire or strip (1) may be pulled from a spool, be straightened (2), then measured (4) in length and cut. At the second position the beginning and end of wire material (1) are there transferred, and there the ends are joined. In the third phase the frame is transferred, with its ends joined, and the measurements and bendings of the sides are made, so as to produce a desired product configuration at the third position.
US09067252B2
A method of forming a hole in a hollow blank during a hydroforming process is provided. The method includes placing a blank in a cavity of a hydroforming die, the hydroforming die being configured to permit a punch to engage the blank. An interior of the blank is pressurized with a fluid. Further, a cutting end of a punch is applied through a wall portion of the blank and into the interior of the blank to form a hole. Furthermore, the cutting end of the punch is removed from the interior of the blank such that the cutting end of the punch is configured to allow material of the blank surrounding the formed hole to move away from the interior of the blank.
US09067249B2
A tapered roll stand for making seamless pipe has a stationary frame formed relative to a workpiece-travel direction with a pair of laterally and horizontally oppositely open windows. Respective cover doors carried on the frame are vertically shiftable between respective closed positions covering the respective windows and open positions offset therefrom and exposing the respective windows. A pair of tapered rolls are each shiftable horizontally through a respective one of the windows into a use position inside the frame, lying to a respective horizontal side of the direction, and rotatable about a respective axis forming an acute angle with the direction. A pair of Diescher disks are vertically engageable with a workpiece extending in the direction between the tapered rolls, and respective roll-positioning actuators carried on the doors are couplable with the tapered rolls in the use position for setting positions of the tapered rolls.
US09067248B2
A method of recycling a one-piece rail having a base portion and a head portion spaced from each other by a substantially flat web portion. The steps include: heating the rail to a plastic state; feeding the heated rail through a first reduction pass to reduce a cross section of the rail without slitting the rail, thereby forming a bar; feeding the bar through a second reduction pass in which the cross section of the bar is further modified and then slitting the bar along the web portion into two bar pieces, one containing the former head portion and one containing the former base portion, as the bar leaves the second reduction pass; and rolling the two bar pieces, in a single pass line, through a series of reduction passes to produce a desired final cross section of the pieces.
US09067246B2
Methods and apparatus for removing unwanted build-up in a pipe, such as a water service line, by creating and directing one or more hydraulic pulses toward the build-up. This may be accomplished, for example, by fluidically connecting a piston assembly to the pipe, and then striking or otherwise abruptly moving the piston to produce a hydraulic pulse.
US09067239B2
A method of making a phase difference film includes: (a) providing a substrate having a first surface provided with a light-shielding layer and a second surface provided with an orientable layer; (b) providing a first linear polarized UV light to irradiate the orientable layer and providing a second linear polarized UV light to irradiate the orientable layer so as to form the orientable layer into an alignment layer having first and second regions that are photo-oriented in two different orientation directions, respectively; and (c) coating a liquid crystal material on the alignment layer and curing the liquid crystal material.
US09067235B1
A paint applicator attachable to a caulking gun including a cradle, a stop fixedly attached to the cradle's front end, a bar, a plate fixedly attached to the bar's front end, and ratchet mechanism including a pivotable grip operatively positioning the bar's front end and the plate within the cradle for forwardly moving the plate, the paint applicator incorporating cylinder having a hollow bore and a front wall, the cylinder being fitted for insertion into the cradle; a nipple opening the cylinder at the cylinder's front wall; a piston mounted within the cylinder; a clamp nut adapted for resisting removal of the cylinder from the cradle; a yoke having a hollow bore, and having paint inlet and paint outlet ends; a rotatable coupling nut adapted for attaching the yoke to the nipple; and a paint roller rotatably mounted upon the yoke's outlet end for receiving and rollably applying the paint.
US09067223B2
A color changer has a common feed passage that is connected to two or more inlet passages. The common feed passage can be reverse purged in a direction that is opposite a direction of powder flow through the common feed passage. A valve element seals a supply port that connects the inlet passage to the common feed passage to eliminate dead space and form a near bore line seal. The valve element is an elastic material that expands in response to applied compressed air inside the valve element.
US09067205B2
A system and method for valving on a sample processing device. The system can include a valve chamber, a process chamber, and a valve septum located between the valve chamber and the process chamber. The system can further include a fluid pathway in fluid communication with an inlet of the valve chamber, wherein the fluid pathway is configured to inhibit a liquid from entering the valve chamber and collecting adjacent the valve septum when the valve septum is in a closed configuration. The method can include rotating the sample processing device to exert a first force on the liquid that is insufficient to move the liquid into the valve chamber; forming an opening in the valve septum; and rotating the sample processing device to exert a second force on the liquid to move the liquid into the valve chamber.
US09067204B2
A sheath flow system having a channel with at least one fluid transporting structure located in the top and bottom surfaces situated so as to transport the sheath fluid laterally across the channel to provide sheath fluid fully surrounding the core solution. At the point of introduction into the channel, the sheath fluid and core solutions flow side by side within the channel or the core solution may be bounded on either side by the sheath fluid. The system is functional over a broad channel size range and with liquids of high or low viscosity. The design can be readily incorporated into microfluidic chips without the need for special manufacturing protocols.
US09067202B1
The semi-rigid culture vessel is structured to transform a flexible culture vessel into a semi-rigid form to facilitate laboratory processes. The semi-rigid culture vessel includes at least two rims connected by at least one rib to form an internal support. The internal support is enclosed within the gas-permeable flexible culture vessel to form the semi-rigid culture vessel.
US09067191B2
The present invention provides a hydrodesulfurization catalyst that exhibits a high desulfurization activity when used in hydrotreatment of hydrocarbon oil, in particular straight-run gas oil. The catalyst includes at least one type of metal component selected from Groups VIA and VIII in the periodic table, supported on a silica-titania-alumina support where the total of the diffraction peak area indicating the crystal structure of anatase titania (101) planes and the diffraction peak area indicating the crystal structure of rutile titania (110) planes is ¼ or less of the diffraction peak area indicating the aluminum crystal structure ascribed to γ-alumina (400) planes, as measured by X-ray diffraction analysis. The catalyst has (a) a specific surface area (SA) of 150 m2/g or greater, (b) a total pore volume (PVo) of 0.30 ml/g or greater, (c) an average pore diameter (PD) of 6 to 15 nm (60 to 150 Å), and (d) the ratio of the pore volume (PVp) of pores having diameters within ±30 percent of the average pore diameter (PD) being 70 percent or greater of the total pore volume (PVo).
US09067190B2
The present invention provides a method for the production of amphiphile particles having incorporated therein at least one active agent. The method comprises forming a dispersion of particles comprising at least one amphiphilic structuring agent in a solution of at least one active agent, heating said dispersion to an elevated temperature, followed by cooling to around ambient temperature. The loading provided thereby is typically at least 130% of the loading provided by equilibration of the particles in a solution of active agent. The invention also provides corresponding amphiphile particles.
