US09182316B2
A method of predicting a fault in a rolling bearing, the rolling bearing including inner and outer rings and rolling bodies evenly angularly distributed therebetween, the method comprising: processing (in the DSP system 8) a position signal (x(t)) indicative of a relative angular position of the inner ring with respect to the outer rings, and a vibration signal (y(t)) (by the accelerometer 7) indicative of speed-related vibrations in the rolling bearing, such that they correspond to either an angular displacement of the rolling bodies equal to an integer number of angular gaps between adjacent rolling bodies or an integer number of complete rotations of the inner ring with respect to the outer ring; space sampling (in the ND acquisition board 9) the processed vibration signal (y(t)) based on the processed position signal (x(t)); and predicting a fault in the rolling bearing based on the space-sampled vibration signal (y(t)).
US09182314B2
A computer-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product detects contaminants in a pipe that is transporting a known fluid. A baseline vibration pattern is established from readings generated by a smart sensor that is affixed to the pipe. This baseline vibration pattern is caused by a flow of the known fluid as the known fluid travels through the pipe in an unadulterated form. Subsequent readings from the smart sensor are taken to generate a new vibration pattern. In response to the new vibration pattern being different, beyond a predefined range, from the baseline vibration pattern, the new vibration pattern is matched to a known vibration pattern in order to identify a specific contaminant of the known fluid.
US09182313B2
A railcar has an on-board system for weighing a load of the railcar. A center plate load cell is attached to the bottom of the railcar body and supports the first end of the railcar body on a truck assembly via the center bowl of the truck assembly. A pair of side bearing load cells are mounted to the bottom of the railcar body so as to flank the center plate load cell. A pair of side bearings are positioned on the top surface of the truck assembly bolster in alignment with the pair of side bearing load cells. Circuitry sums signals from the center plate load cell and the pair of side bearing load cells to provide a summed output corresponding to a weight of the railcar load. The summed output is conditioned and transmitted via a satellite and/or cable system to a remote receiving station.
US09182308B2
An oil-filled pressure transducer having reduced back pressure, comprising an alignment plate having a sensor accommodating aperture, a sensor module inserted into the sensor accommodating aperture, a header surrounding the alignment plate, the header having a protruding top surface, and a diaphragm disposed on the protruding top surface to create a relatively small oil accommodating region between the diaphragm and the sensor. This configuration reduces the oil volume required for operation, which ultimately reduces the back pressure applied against the diaphragm.
US09182306B2
Systems and methods for measuring environmental conditions of a sensing location, where a sensor including a measuring surface and a wire coupled in tension to the measuring surface over which ultrasonic signals may be transmitted and sensed. Signal analysis of ultrasonic signals transmitted over the tensioned wire are analyzed to measure one or more environmental conditions acting on the measuring surface.
US09182297B2
A temperature sensor system includes a temperature sensor, a cable having an end coupled to the temperature sensor, and a stop flange coupled to the cable. The temperature sensor system further includes a vibration reducing and/or modifying sleeve positioned against the stop flange. The sleeve includes a body portion defining a through passage configured to receive and retain at least a portion of the cable. The sleeve is configured to provide stability and reduce vibrational stress to the temperature sensor system. The sleeve is configured to be added to the temperature sensor system during assembly of the system and/or to be added after the temperature sensor system is fully assembled.
US09182295B1
A temperature to digital converter circuitry to generate output data which is representative of one or more temperature dependent characteristics of a temperature sensitive device (for example, MEMS thermistor having a resistance that correlates to its temperature), the temperature to digital circuitry comprising a switched capacitor network to generate a effective reference resistance in response to a switching signal, a signal generator to generate the switching signal, wherein the switching signal has a switching frequency which is controlled, at least in part, via control data, comparator circuitry to generate error data using the effective reference resistance and the resistance of the temperature sensitive device, and converter circuitry to generate the output data which is representative of one or more temperature dependent characteristics of the temperature sensitive device.
US09182294B2
The sensor is made on a semiconductor substrate covered with an electrically insulating layer. The electrically insulating layer separates a thermocouple from the substrate. It includes a first portion presenting a first value of capacitance per unit area and a second portion presenting a second value of capacitance per unit area, which is lower than the first value. The sensor includes first and second output terminals connected to the thermocouple. The first output terminal includes a first capacitor having a first electrode formed by a first leg made of an electrically conducting material. The second electrode of the capacitor is formed by a part of the substrate facing said first leg and separated from the first electrode by the first portion of the electrically insulating layer. The first leg connects the thermocouple while overlapping the second portion of the electrically insulating layer.
US09182289B2
An apparatus for estimating a wavefront parameter includes a light source, a lenslet array, a detector for detecting light generated by the light source and passed through the lenslet array, a wavefront corrective element disposed between the lenslet array and the light source; and a data analyzer configured to estimate at least one wavefront parameter at a plane located on the light source side of the corrective element. The lenslet array and the sensor array are arranged to form a wavefront sensor, and the wavefront corrective element is configured to correct an aberration of the wavefront.
US09182288B2
A thermal detector includes a thermal detection element, a support member, and a fixing part supporting the support member. The support member mounts and supports the thermal detection element on a second side thereof with a first side thereof facing a cavity. The support member includes a first layer member disposed on the second side and having a residual stress in a first direction, and a second layer member laminated on the first layer member on the first side and having a residual stress in a second direction opposite to the first direction. A thermal conductance of the first layer member is less than a thermal conductance of the second layer member.
US09182286B2
An infrared sensor allows for a large temperature difference between a temperature sensor for the detection of infrared rays and a temperature sensor for temperature compensation; a reduction in size; and a low manufacturing cost. The infrared sensor comprises: an electrical insulating film sheet; first temperature sensor and second temperature sensor which are provided on one side of the electrical insulating film sheet, and are located at a distance from each other; first foil conductor patterns formed on one side face of the electrical insulating film sheet, and are connected to the first temperature sensor; second foil conductor patterns formed on the one side of the electrical insulating film sheet, and are connected to the second temperature sensor; and an infrared reflector film provided on the other side of the electrical insulating film sheet, and is opposite the second temperature sensor across the electrical insulating film sheet.
US09182261B1
A thermal mass flow meter includes a housing, a control module, a plurality of probes, a flow calculation circuit, and a heating module. The control module is installed in a containing space. The probes are connected to one terminal of the housing. The flow calculation circuit is connected to the control module, and has a plurality of circuit boards installed in the probes and a plurality of temperature sensing units connected to the circuit boards. The heating module is connected on one of the circuit boards, and connected to the control module. The control module controls the heating module to heat a working fluid in a pipeline; the flow calculation circuit senses the temperature inside the pipeline to acquire temperature change values, and transmits the temperature change values to the control module; and the control module measures the fluid velocity of the working fluid.
US09182260B2
The invention relates to an ultrasonic flow meter arranged to measure a flow rate of a liquid, the flow meter comprises a flow tube 2, optionally a measurement insert, and two or more ultrasonic transducers 8 which are arranged in transducer inserts 20 to be inserted into the flow tube through openings in the flow tube. The transducer inserts are formed monolithically with the housing as a part of the bottom of the housing. The transducer inserts are in a mount position inserted through the openings in the flow tube to extend into the flow passage so that the surface 15 of the transducer inserts protrude into the flow passage. In this manner, gas bubbles, such as air bubbles, released from the flowing liquid will not rest in front of the transducer insert irrespectively of the orientation of the flow meter in the pipe installation.
US09182258B2
An apparatus comprises a pipe section for process flow, a coil for generating a magnetic field across the pipe section, a current source for energizing the coil to generate the magnetic field, and an electrode for sensing an electromotive force induced across the process flow by the magnetic field. The current source energizes the coil at a plurality of different pulse frequencies. A processor calculates a function of the electromotive force at the plurality of different pulse frequencies, and generates a flow output based on the function.
US09182249B2
A rotation angle detection device capable of obtaining a detection result in a wider angle range with high accuracy. The rotation angle detection device is provided with a part to be detected which is attached to a throttle shaft S by a rotor, and a Hall IC which detects magnetic flux components of the part to be detected. The Hall IC is provided with a magnetism collecting plate which is disposed facing the part to be detected and extends along the rotation surface of the part to be detected, and Hall elements which detect the magnetic flux components of the part to be detected, and output a signal corresponding to the rotation position of the throttle shaft S on the basis of the results of the detection by the Hall elements. The Hall elements each detect a magnetic flux component in an X-axis direction passing through the rotation axis of the throttle shaft S. The Hall elements each detect a magnetic flux component in the Y-axis direction passing through the rotation axis of the throttle shaft S. The part to be detected is configured by combining a semicircular yoke with a semiannular magnet.
US09182248B2
An apparatus for a power line communication network includes a power line transmitter/receiver, a processor coupled to the power line transmitter/receiver, and memory accessible to the processor. The processor is configured to store a routing table in the memory for routing packets in an upward direction towards a data concentrator (DC). However, no routing table is provided for routing packets in a downward direction away from the DC. Instead of using a routing table to route packets in the downward direction, the processor is configured to employ source routing in the downward direction.
US09182244B2
A network of collection, charging and distribution machines collect, charge and distribute portable electrical energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, supercapacitors or ultracapacitors). To charge, the machines employ electrical current from an external source, such as the electrical grid or an electrical service of an installation location. By default, each portable electrical energy storage device is disabled from accepting a charge unless it receives authentication information from an authorized collection, charging and distribution machine, other authorized charging device, or other authorized device that transmits the authentication credentials. Also, by default, each portable electrical energy storage device is disabled from releasing energy unless it receives authentication information from an external device to which it will provide power, such as a vehicle or other authorization device.
US09182243B2
Some embodiments provide a navigation application that presents a novel navigation presentation on a device. The application identifies a location of the device, and identifies a style of road signs associated with the identified location of the device. The application then generates navigation instructions in form of road signs that match the identified style. To generate the road sign, the application in some embodiments identifies a road sign template image for the identified style, and generates the road sign by compositing the identified road sign template with at least one of text instruction and graphical instruction. In some embodiments, the road sign is generated as a composite textured image that has a texture and a look associated with the road signs at the identified location.
US09182239B2
Various implementations described herein are directed to displaying laylines. In one implementation, a method may include receiving marine electronics data at a marine electronics device disposed on a vessel. The method may also include receiving a navigational location. The method may further include calculating one or more laylines based on the navigational location and the marine electronics data. The method may additionally include displaying a vessel marker representing the vessel, a compass scale, and the one or more laylines on a display screen of the marine electronics device, where the vessel marker, the compass scale, and the one or more laylines are integrated on the display screen.
US09182238B2
Improved methods and systems for position acquisition and/or monitoring are disclosed. The position acquisition and/or monitoring can be performed with improved intelligence so that data acquisition, transmission and/or processing is reduced. As a result, the position acquisition and/or monitoring is able to be performed in a power efficient manner.
US09182235B2
Calculating a highly accurate locus is a goal. An administrative part (20) for correcting a traveling locus of a mobile object (V) is characterized by including an evaluation function generating unit (21) that sets a plurality of nodes on locus data of the mobile object (V) acquired by a wheel rotation quantity measuring unit (16), correlates position data of the mobile object (V) acquired by the wheel rotation quantity measuring unit (16) to the nodes and correlates position data of the mobile object (V) acquired by other units of measurement means than the wheel rotation quantity measuring unit to the nodes, represents positions at which the nodes may occur by probability, represents positions at which position data correlated to the nodes may occur by probability, and calculates an evaluation function including the nodes and the position data as variables, based on each probability; and a locus optimization calculation unit (22) that calculates a locus on which each node occurs with largest probability, based on the evaluation function.
US09182227B1
Methods and apparatus to measure an angular position of craft components are disclosed. An example apparatus includes an opening to receive a component along a first plane, and a first magnetic coupler positioned along a first exterior side of the apparatus to removably couple an inclinometer to the apparatus at a first angle relative to the first plane.
US09182225B2
A position recognition device of a printer includes a bracket, a platform, a positioning gear, and a base. The bracket includes a receiving shaft. The receiving shaft includes a shaft body and a gear portion mounted to the shaft body. The positioning gear is pivotally located to the platform. The positioning gear includes a gear body and a marker connected to the gear body. The gear body and the gear portion are the same size. The base is slidably mounted to the bracket. The base includes a sensor. The positioning gear is located under the sensor to be aligned with the sensor; the gear portion rotates to drive the positioning gear to rotate. The sensor senses the marker to determine an initial position of the receiving shaft for compensation.
US09182224B2
The present invention relates to a measuring apparatus, and more particularly to an apparatus used during testing of the steering characteristics of a wheeled motor vehicle and can be used for measuring and adjusting the chassis geometry parameters including toe-in/toe-out, camber, caster, steering angles and plays, and the like. The apparatus designed to be mounted within the interwheel space on the wheel disk and comprising a removable support designed to be mounted on the inner side of the wheel disk.
US09182215B2
A strain sensor includes a flexible substrate, a CNT film made of a plurality of CNT fibers aligned in an orientation direction, a pair of electrodes, and a protective coat. The electrodes are formed at the opposite ends of the CNT film in a perpendicular direction to the orientation direction of the CNT fibers. The protective coat protecting the CNT film is made of a resin, a water-based emulsion, or an oil-based emulsion. The protective coat is placed in contact with at least part of the CTN fibers on the surface of the CNT film. The strain sensor including the protective coat is able to prevent damage/breakage of the CNT film and to prevent foreign matters from entering into gaps between CNT fibers, thus improving durability in maintaining adequate sensing functionality.
US09182214B2
An electronically-commutated synchronous system and method includes a permanently-excited rotor and a stator which is provided with three phase windings, together with three rotor position sensors in an appropriate arrangement for a first commutation scheme. The rotor position is determined by the read-out of data from the position sensors. The appropriate voltage vector is defined by a second commutation scheme, and the second rotor position thus determined is compared with the first commutation scheme. If the rotor position sensors are operating correctly, the position of the rotor may be determined to an accuracy which is equivalent to the interval between two columns in the commutation table.
US09182208B2
In the present invention, by inputting an upper head size to a computer in addition to a front & back length-size and a right & left width-size of a head portion of a helmet wearer and by data-processing them, there is employed a configuration in which a kind of the helmet size and a shape of a pad such as a pad, in the region consisting of the head-top portion and the vicinity thereof, or the like, which fit the head portion of the helmet wearer, are to be selected. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a selection method in which it is possible to easily select a kind of a preferable size of the helmet, and a preferable shape of the pad in the region consisting of the head-top portion and the vicinity thereof.
US09182196B2
A dual hardness steel article comprises a first air hardenable steel alloy having a first hardness metallurgically bonded to a second air hardenable steel alloy having a second hardness. A method of manufacturing a dual hard steel article comprises providing a first air hardenable steel alloy part comprising a first mating surface and having a first part hardness, and providing a second air hardenable steel alloy part comprising a second mating surface and having a second part hardness. The first air hardenable steel alloy part is metallurgically secured to the second air hardenable steel alloy part to form a metallurgically secured assembly, and the metallurgically secured assembly is hot rolled to provide a metallurgical bond between the first mating surface and the second mating surface.
US09182189B2
When a semi-automatic weapon is live fired, its firing pin is reset and is ready to be fired again. The shooter's hands remain in the firing position, and just the trigger finger and trigger are employed. But with dry fire practice, the shooter must remove a hand from the weapon and ratchet the slide to reset the firing pin, allowing the trigger to return to its unfired position. This must be done each time a shot is simulated. This invention provides, by incorporating a modified ammunition magazine in the weapon's magazine compartment, realistic muscle memory training by duplicating the action of the trigger, the feel and the sound of the release of the firing pin and the resetting of the trigger for additional trigger activations. It does not interact with the weapon's firing pin and does not require any alterations to the weapon such as disassembling and reassembling of parts.
US09182169B2
The invention relates to a device (1, 10) for the production of cooled coffee, comprising a brewing unit (4) for the production of coffee, a cooling assembly (11) and a coffee cooler (14) formed as a heat exchanger, wherein the coffee cooler (14) has at least one first and one second flow path that are connected thermally but not in a fluid-conducting manner, wherein a coolant can flow through the first flow path and the second flow path is connected in a fluid-conducting manner with a coffee outlet (5) of the brewing unit (4). It is essential that the device furthermore has a fresh-water supply (2) and a fresh-water cooler (13) formed as an additional heat exchanger, wherein the fresh-water cooler (13) has at least one first and one second flow path that are connected thermally but not in a fluid conducting manner and the fresh-water supply (2) is connected in a fluid-conducting manner downstream with the second flow path of the fresh-water cooler (13), further downstream with the first flow path of the coffee cooler (14), and further downstream with the brewing unit (4) and the first flow path of the fresh-water cooler (13) is connected in a fluid-conducting manner with a coolant circuit of the cooling assembly. The invention further relates to a method for the production of cooled coffee.
US09182165B2
A refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator includes a refrigerator body having a storage chamber defined therein, a refrigeration cycle device for cooling the storage chamber, a chilling case for receiving a beverage container such that the chilling case surrounds the beverage container in a contact manner, and a rapid cooling device, having a case receiving part for receiving the chilling case, for cooling a coolant using the refrigeration cycle device and spraying the cooled coolant to an outside of the chilling case in a vicinity of the chilling case. A beverage is cooled in a state in which the beverage container is not in direct contact with the coolant, whereby the coolant is not present at the outside of the beverage container, and therefore, the beverage container is kept sanitary.
US09182163B2
A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a body having a storage chamber; a door selectively opening or closing the storage chamber; a cooling device including: a case of which a front surface is open and mounted at a side in the storage chamber; an agitating assembly that is swingably disposed in the case; a cover that is rotatably mounted on the case to open or close the front surface of the case; and a driving assembly that is mounted on the case and an underside of the agitating assembly to generates a driving force for swinging the agitating assembly; a refrigeration cycle for producing cold air to be supplied to the storage chamber and the cooling device; and an anti-interference mechanism disposed at the agitating assembly and the case, wherein the anti-interference mechanism is configured to prevent the agitating assembly from hitting against an inner surface of the case while the agitating assembly swings.
US09182157B2
A refrigerator includes a refrigerator cabinet, a refrigerator compartment disposed within the refrigerator cabinet, a refrigerator compartment door for providing access to the refrigerator compartment, an ice maker on the refrigerator compartment door, a thermoelectric cooler associated with the ice maker and operatively connected to the refrigerator compartment door, the thermoelectric cooler having a first side and an opposite second side, and a cooling loop operatively connected to the refrigerator compartment door and configured for cooling the thermoelectric cooler.
US09182156B2
A two-stage GM cryogenic refrigerator includes a displacer having a low-temperature side and a high-temperature side and a motor configured to drive the displacer. The motor is configured to be rotatable forward in cooling and backward in increasing a temperature. The cryogenic refrigerator further includes a resin provided on an outer circumferential surface of the displacer. A thickness of the resin is thinner on the high-temperature side than on the low-temperature side.
US09182154B2
A control system controls adaptively an operation of a vapor compression system. The control system includes a memory for storing a mapping relationship between control inputs of the vapor compression system, and a processor for executing a supervisory controller and an optimization controller. The supervisory controller controls the operation of the vapor compression system using a set of control inputs selected according to the mapping relationship. The optimization controller modifies the mapping relationship in response to the operation of the vapor compression system.
US09182152B2
Apparatus and techniques for mounting frameless photovoltaic modules reduce module stress induced by the mounting configuration. Cable clamps and cable spacing configured to relieve module stress by reducing or eliminating module sag are used.
US09182144B2
A hot air blower includes a shell including a fan mechanism, a combustion device, a vane mechanism, and a flame protector disposed therein. The vane mechanism includes a clipping seat and a plurality of guiding vanes extended thereon. The plurality of guiding vanes extend obliquely and prevents the air passing through the vane mechanism from generating turbulence. The clipping seat and the flame protector form a half-closed combustion chamber therebetween. Heat in the half-closed combustion chamber causes a thermal expansion of the air and, thereby increasing a speed and a volume of the air passing the guiding vanes of the vane mechanism. The heated air is discharged from an external flow tube and which controls a heating range of an area of the hot air blower.
US09182143B2
A room pressure controlling system having a local exhaust valve, a supply air valve, a common exhaust air valve, controllers and a differential pressure sensor. The controller calculates a correction control output value for the valve operated as the room pressure controlling valve, which is either the supply air valve or the common exhaust air valve, based on a setting value and a room pressure measured by the differential pressure sensor. The controller evaluates whether or not the supply airflow rate and/or the exhaust airflow rate is changing, and if an airflow rate is changing, emphasizes rapid responsiveness of the room pressure control than a reduction in the frequency of actuation of the room pressure controlling valve, if the airflow rate is stable, the controller emphasizes the reduction in the frequency of actuation of the room pressure controlling valve than the rapid responsiveness of the room pressure control.
US09182138B2
A method and apparatus for attic fan power controller with remote control have been disclosed. In one version a solar array and/or a power line source provides energy for a fan determined by a control box which also interfaces with a remote control.
US09182132B2
A modular, multi-piece, domestic appliance combination unit includes a lower appliance; an upper appliance; a universal connector bracket attached to the upper appliance; a support bracket attached to the lower appliance, the support bracket having a plurality of attachment locations that are positioned relative to each other in the horizontal direction; a slide mechanism having an upper slide member fixed to the universal connector bracket, and a lower slide member fixed to the support bracket and slidably attached to the upper slide member. The upper appliance moves relative to the lower appliance in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction when the upper slide member moves relative to the lower slide member, and the support bracket is attachable to the lower slide member at different ones of the plurality of attachment locations such that the lower slide member is positionable at different locations along the horizontal direction.
US09182122B2
A device for supplying flow across a combustor includes an axial fluid injector configured to circumferentially surround at least a portion of the combustor. An inner annular passage extends through the axial fluid injector and provides fluid communication through the axial fluid injector and into a first annular passage that surrounds the combustor. An outer annular passage extends through the axial fluid injector radially outward from the inner annular passage and provides axial flow into the first annular passage. A method for supplying flow to a combustor includes flowing a first portion of a working fluid through a first axial flow path and flowing a second portion of the working fluid through a second axial flow path.
US09182119B2
The invention relates to a burner, in particular a radiant burner, for the combustion of a gas mixture of fuel gas and an oxygen carrier gas, with a burner plate with passage channels for the throughflow of the gas mixture from a mixing chamber side to a combustion side, wherein, on the combustion side, combustion channels with an enlarged cross-section compared with the passage channels connect to the passage channels, wherein flow obstacles for a contact with the combustion flame are arranged in the combustion channels and the flow obstacles are made of a material which has a higher thermal conductivity than the material of the burner plate.
US09182116B2
A wood or other bio mass fueled appliance is disclosed for maximum efficiency and low cost construction for home, garage, workshop, and barn. Comprised of a vertical cylindrical outside shell (12) outside bottom (16) and outside top (14) enclosing an inside shell (24) inside bottom (28) and inside top (26). Inside shell (24) forming a vertical cylindrical chamber (36) accessed by load door (38) and ash door (40), through which disassembled baffles (32) may pass. A suitable means for igniting fuel in chamber (36) and controlling burn rate by draft regulators (42) and fan limit switches (52). Whereby circular baffles (32) elevated by 90° angle shaped supports (30) suppress the flow of flame and exhaust gases from entering flue (22). Exhaust gases and flame pass by gap (50), directing energy toward the inside surface of inside shell (24) inside bottom (28) and inside top (26). Thus maximizing the efficiency of heat transferred from chamber (36) to the air or fluid in space (18) circulated through ducts (20) by blowers/pumps (48) and directed by air deflectors (46) producing economizing results.
US09182113B2
The steam generator includes: a water supply channel for supplying a secondary coolant to a tube bundle outer casing with the secondary coolant being isolated from the recirculating secondary coolant; a recirculating secondary coolant injection section for injecting the recirculating secondary coolant toward a high temperature-side heat transfer tube bundle; and a supplied secondary coolant injection section for injecting the secondary coolant supplied from the water supply channel toward a low temperature-side heat transfer tube bundle. The recirculating secondary coolant injection section and the supplied secondary coolant injection section being disposed in the tube bundle outer casing on the side toward the tube plate. The recirculating secondary coolant injection section and the supplied secondary coolant injection section are defined such that, of the secondary coolant and the recirculating secondary coolant, the coolant having a higher relative flow rate than the other flows at a lower velocity.
US09182110B2
The present invention relates to a lighting device (1). The lighting device comprises a light source (3), a circuit board (7) configured to control the light source, and a circuit board frame (10) comprising a slot (12). Further, an edge (8) of the circuit board is mounted in the slot such that the circuit board is in thermal contact with the circuit board frame, thereby enabling heat to be conducted from the circuit board to the circuit board frame. The present invention is advantageous in that the thermal performance of the lighting device is improved and manufacturing costs are reduced.
US09182107B2
A luminaire adapter is provided. The luminaire adapter includes a tombstone cover and a light source bracket. The tombstone cover includes a housing that defines a slot opening to accept a tombstone socket and a pair of snap connectors. The light source bracket includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion and the bottom portion are configured to connect. The bottom portion includes a pair of snap receivers configured to receive the pair of snap connectors of the tombstone cover. The top portion and the bottom portion define an opening to receive a luminaire.
US09182105B1
A light source module including an optical film and at least one light source unit is provided. The light source unit and the optical film enclose a space. The light source unit includes a reflecting device, at least one light bar, and a collimated unit. The reflecting device is disposed under the optical film. The light bar includes a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged along a third direction. The collimated unit extends along a direction parallel to the third direction and includes an upper reflective portion and a lower reflective portion. A shortest distance between one end of the lower reflective portion located adjacent to the reflecting device and the optical axis of the light-emitting elements along a second direction is defined as a first half light-emitting width, which is gradually increased along the third direction from a center portion of the collimated unit towards two sides thereof.
US09182097B2
The invention relates to a diffuser (1) for use in a lighting device. The diffuser (1) comprises an at least partially transparent first layer (10) and an adjoining at least partially transparent second layer (20), the first layer being continuous and comprising a stretchable elastomer, the second layer being a segmented layer comprising a material with a high effective stiffness measured as the product of the thickness of the material and the elastic modulus of the material. The second layer (20) comprises a non-periodic pattern of segments (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e) having different dimensions. The diffuser is stretchable between a first position in which the first layer is in a non-stretched state and the segments of the second layer are arranged adjacent each other such as to form a substantially continuous layer, and a second position in which the first layer is stretched out and the segments of the second layer are separated from each other such that part of the first layer is exposed.
US09182094B2
An optical system that collects 100% of the light emitted from the light source and effectively directs it into the desired beam pattern. This is achieved by a combination of different optical control methods including reflector and lens optics. The cost is controlled by a design that reduces the optical part count to 2 main components, which reduces manufacturing and assembling time and maintains proper alignment to the light source and system.
US09182093B2
A ceiling lamp consists of one or more LEDs supported by a housing that fits within a hemispherical framework that may be installed in a ceiling. The LED housing comprises a hemispherical heat sink that may be movably retained within the framework and may be rotated 360 degrees in the horizontal plane and downwardly in the vertical plane. The frame has one or more upwardly extending legs rigidly attached to a ceiling trim and that hold a circular ring positioned above the heat sink. An adjustment screw passes through a concave disc above the ring, and extends through the ring where it is attached to the hemispherical heat sink.
US09182083B2
A light emitting diode bulb includes a lampshade, a lamp housing, a heat sink, a driving circuit, light emitting diode modules and a lamp cap. The lamp housing is connected to the lampshade and includes a cup-shaped casing and a heat conduction part. The heat conduction part is disposed in the cup-shaped casing. The heat sink is disposed in the lampshade and includes a heat-dissipating shell and a heat-dissipating frustum. The heat-dissipating shell covers the heat conduction part. The heat-dissipating frustum includes a top surface, a bottom surface and four side surfaces. The heat-dissipating frustum includes an axis vertical to the bottom surface. An included angle between the axis and each of the side surfaces is smaller than 90 degrees. The light emitting diode modules are adhered to the top surface and the side surfaces and connected to the driving circuit. The lamp cap is connected to the driving circuit.
US09182068B2
A display apparatus includes: a display displaying images on a display surface; a back chassis arranged in a position opposite to the display surface of the display; and a rear cover arranged in a position opposite to a surface of the back chassis which faces the display, wherein through holes piercing in a thickness direction are formed in the back chassis and reinforcing portions are provided in the back chassis.
US09182062B2
A CPAP system includes a flow generator, a patient interface, an air delivery conduit that interconnects the flow generator and the patient interface, and a packaging arrangement including at least one storage facilitating member to allow storage of the air delivery conduit. The at least one storage facilitating member may be provided to the flow generator, a cradle, and/or the air delivery conduit.
US09182061B2
A pipe joint comprising a pressing nut into which a flexible pipe is inserted, a joint body into which the pressing nut is partially inserted, a resilient means unlocked when pushed by a tip end of the flexible pipe, a sealing member, a retainer engaging the flexible pipe, and an engaging mechanism keeping the pressing nut at a predetermined position in the joint body; the engaging mechanism comprising a stop ring, an annular groove formed on an outer surface of the pressing nut for receiving the stop ring, pluralities of engaging grooves formed on an inner surface of the joint body for receiving the stop ring and communicating with each other; the stop ring engaging both of the annular groove and the first engaging groove before the connection of the flexible pipe is completed; and when the flexible pipe is pulled after completing the connection, the stop ring moving from the first engaging groove to the second engaging groove to draw the pressing nut from the joint body, so that the normal connection of the flexible pipe can be confirmed.
US09182060B2
A spherical annular seal member 40 includes: a spherical annular base member 38 which is defined by a cylindrical inner surface 34 defining a through hole 33 in a central portion, a partially convex spherical surface 35, and annular end faces 36 and 37 on large- and small-diameter sides of the partially convex spherical surface 35; and an outer layer 39 formed integrally on the partially convex spherical surface 35 of the spherical annular base member 38.
US09182044B1
The invention is directed to a valve system comprising of moving parts therein. The valve system is designed to be resistant to the effects of low temperatures which otherwise tend to compromise the correct operation of the moving parts of the valve system. The inventor has cleverly got around this problem by designing a valve in which the moving parts thereof are positioned inside the contents of a tank. The contents of the tank ensure that the moving parts are less vulnerable to fluctuations in temperature outside the tank. Consequently, the invention provides reliable valve operation during freezing weather.
US09182040B2
A fluid rotary passage is provided for sealing a fluid pressure chamber between a rotatable shaft and a shaft seat. The fluid rotary passage includes a sealing ring carrier and a fitting body, rotationally fixed or in contact with one of the shaft and the shaft seat in a fluid-tight manner and radially spaced from each other to create the chamber between them. Two sealing rings are provided axially spaced from each other and each sealingly applied with one contact surface against the carrier and one against the fitting body, for sealing the chamber against the outside. The carrier and the fitting body together form two axially spaced receiving grooves for the sealing rings, which are open toward the chamber and have at least one holding protrusion at least partially securing the sealing ring disposed in the respective receiving groove against a radial dislocation from the groove toward the chamber.
US09182031B2
In a V-belt type continuously variable transmission for utility vehicle, a transmission case assembly covering a drive pulley assembly and a driven pulley assembly is provided. The transmission case assembly includes a transmission case main body, and a transmission cover attached to a cover attachment surface of the transmission case main body. The cover attachment surface is inclined with respect to a vertical plane which is orthogonal to a crankshaft, and the transmission cover is attached to the cover attachment surface by a plurality of bolts removed and inserted in the direction orthogonal to the cover attachment surface.
US09182023B2
A linear motion system includes an elongated shaft, a movable member mounted at the elongated shaft, a lubricator unit defining therein a grease storage container for storing a lubricating grease, a motor mounted in the grease storage container, a lubricating grease guide connected to the motor, a controller mounted in the grease storage container, and a sensor adapted to provide an actuation signal to the controller upon movement of the movable member, causing the controller to start the motor in moving the lubricating grease guide to expel the storage lubricating grease out of the grease storage container onto the surface of the elongated shaft so as to achieve a self-lubricating effect.
US09182017B2
A belt-driven continuously variable transmission adapted to prevent a tilting motion of a sheave under high temperature.The belt-driven continuously variable transmission is comprised of a pair of pulleys individually comprised of a fixed sheave rotated integrally with a rotary shaft and a movable sheave fitted onto the rotary shaft while being allowed to reciprocate thereon, and a driving belt applied to the pulleys to transmit power therebetween. a stopper member is disposed on an outer circumferential side and in a side where the driving belt is not contacted with the movable sheave so as to prevent the movable sheave from being tilted to widen a width between the fixed sheave and the movable sheave holding the driving belt by a load from the driving belt.
US09182014B2
Nine gear transmission with four planetary gear sets, rotatable shafts and six shift elements. Sun of first set is connected to fifth shaft connected to sun of second set and is couplable to housing by third brake. Drive shaft is releasably connected by first clutch to fourth shaft connected to carrier of second set and is couplable by second brake to housing. Drive shaft is connectable by of second clutch to seventh shaft connected to ring of second set and sun of third set and is connectable by of third clutch to eighth shaft connected to ring of fourth set and carrier of third set. Shaft (6) is connected to ring of third set and carrier of first, and third shaft is connected to sun of fourth set and is couplable by first brake to housing. Output shaft is connected to carrier of fourth set and ring of first set.
US09182012B2
A power transfer unit for transferring a torque comprising a first shaft configured to receive the torque from a first device, a second shaft configured to output the torque to a second device, and an activating assembly for selectively transferring the torque from the first shaft to the second shaft. The activating assembly includes a sliding cam, a rotating cam, an actuator configured to selectively rotate the rotating cam relative to the sliding cam, and an engaging gear. The gear is configured to be moved by the sliding cam between a first engaged position where the torque is transferred from the first shaft to the second shaft through the gear and a second disengaged position where no torque is transferred to the second shaft. Relative rotation between the rotating earn and the sliding cam moves the sliding earn thereby moving the gear between the first engaged and second disengaged position.
US09182008B2
The invention relates to an adjustment device (30) for a rotating body (10; 21; 22), in particular a fan (10) of a cooling fan for a combustion engine, or a shaft (21) or a rotor (22) of an electric motor (20), comprising a rotation axis (R), wherein a mass (311; 10; 11; 14) that rotates around the rotation axis (R) can be dislocated relative to the rotation axis (R) by means of the adjustment device (30). The invention further relates to a rotating body (10; 22), in particular a fan (10) of a cooler blower for a combustion engine, or a shaft (21) or a rotor (22) of an electric motor (20), comprising an adjustment device (30) according to the invention.
US09182007B2
A damper pulley assembly of vehicle may include a crankshaft rotating by a power transmitted from an engine, a hub including a hub body formed cylindrical hollow shape so that the crankshaft is inserted and a hub ring protruded outside of the hub body, a pulley coupled outside of the hub ring, a combining ring formed cylindrical hollow shape so as to be coupled outside of the hub body, and an oil seal provided between outside of the combining ring and inside of the cylinder block and preventing leakage of engine oil of the cylinder block, wherein the hub is made of low density material compared to the pulley, and the combining ring is made of high stiffness compared to the hub.
US09182003B2
A damper device includes an inner part having a cylindrical shape; an outer part including an annular space with a bottom to rotatably or relatively rotatably house the inner part from one cylinder end side; and a viscous fluid filled in the annular space. An outer side of the inner part is formed with a circular groove to fit an outside seal ring. Also, an inner side of the inner part is formed with a circular step surface positioned closer to the one cylinder end side than the circular groove, and positioning an inside seal ring. A depth of the circular groove has a dimension approximately half a thickness of the inner part at a portion forming the circular groove.
US09181999B2
The invention illustrates a caliper body (1) for a disc brake, suitable for being arranged astride of a disc (40) for a disc brake, said disc (40) defining a first braking surface (41) and a second braking surface (42) opposite the first braking surface (41); said caliper body (1) comprising a first half-caliper (2) and a second half-caliper (3), which are obtained by casting without machining and are suitable for being connected together at respective contact surfaces (4′, 4″) defining a joining plane (P) of the half-calipers; said first half-caliper (2) comprising a wheel-side elongated portion (5), extending in a tangential direction, which is suitable for facing an axially inner surface thereof towards the first braking surface (41), and at least one first projecting portion (11), projecting in an axial direction provided with a first contact surface (4′) suitable for connecting with the second half-caliper (3); said second half-caliper (3) comprising a vehicle-side elongated portion (6), extending in a tangential direction, which is suitable for facing an axially inner surface towards the second braking surface (42), an attachment portion (7) suitable for being connected to a support for the caliper and at least one second projecting portion (12), projecting in an axial direction provided with a second contact surface (4″) suitable for connecting with the first half-caliper (2); the first projecting portion (11) and the second projecting portion (12) being suitable for being connected together at the respective contact surfaces (4′, 4″) so as to form at least one bridge astride of the disc (40); each of said first projecting portion (11) and said second projecting portion (12) being provided with a radially inner surface (13′, 13″) suitable for facing the disc (40) that forms an angle α of between 90° and 92° with the respective contact surface (4′, 4″); in which the first projecting portion (11) extends farther in the axial direction with respect to the second projecting portion (12) so that said half-caliper joining plane (P) is axially closer to the vehicle-side elongated portion (6) with respect to the wheel-side elongated portion (5).
US09181991B2
In a driving force transmission apparatus, an oil inlet portion for introducing hydraulic fluid from one of spaces to the other one of the spaces is formed, and an apparatus case has an oil outlet portion for delivering the hydraulic fluid from the other one of the spaces to an outside of the other one of the spaces with an oil delivery capacity lower than an oil introducing capacity of the oil inlet portion. A pressure regulation valve for bringing the oil inlet portion into an open state upon reception of hydraulic pressure higher than or equal to a predetermined pressure from hydraulic fluid is arranged at the oil inlet portion.
US09181985B2
A shaft collar and shaft coupling assemblies adapted for use in the food-processing and similar industries. The assemblies include a shaft collar or shaft coupling disposed within an associated multi-element shroud. The shroud provides a cover overlying the collar or coupling, eliminating exposed features that can trap food particles, thereby effecting a high level of cleanliness of food-processing equipment upon which the collar or coupling is secured, while retaining many of the advantages of a conventional collar or coupling.
US09181981B2
A bearing system includes a first bearing ring, a second bearing ring spaced radially outwards from the first bearing ring, and a bearing cage between the first bearing ring and the second bearing ring. The bearing cage includes a circumferential outer side, a circumferential inner side, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced retainer portions between an axially forward end and an axially trailing end. Roller elements are located in the plurality of retainer portions of the bearing cage. At least one fluid nozzle is axially spaced from the bearing cage for dispensing a fluid to the roller elements.
US09181967B2
A coupler includes a first hollow sleeve, a plurality of tapered clamps and a second hollow sleeve. The first hollow sleeve is formed with a first inner threaded portion on the inner face of one end while the other end thereof a tapered face. The diameter of tapered face increases toward the first inner threaded portion. The outer face of each tapered clamp is formed with a second tapered face, which contacts the first tapered face. The inner face of each tapered clamp has a plurality of teeth conforming to one end portion of the first bar. One end of the second hollow sleeve is formed with a first outer threaded portion and the first outer threaded portion conforms to the first inner threaded portion. The second hollow sleeve is formed with a second inner threaded portion, which matches a second outer threaded portion of the second bar.
US09181966B2
In a clamp, a holding portion provided with an opening for inserting a long object (for example, a pipe) such as the pipe and the like, and holding the long object (for example, the pipe); a main body portion disposed leaving a certain space on an outer circumferential face of the holding portion; and a fixed portion fixing to an attached member (for example, a panel) such as the panel and the like, are connected. In the clamp, the fixed portion is fixed to the attached member (for example, the panel), so that the long object (for example, the pipe) is attached to the attached member (for example, the panel). A vibration-absorption portion for reducing a transmission of a vibration provides support between the holding portion and the main body portion. The holding portion, the main body portion, and the vibration-absorption portion are made from the same resin material.
US09181962B2
A compressor including at least one cascade of fixed vanes, the vanes of which are mounted on a wall and between them form air-flow passages, and an air bleed system which bleeds air from the passages between two vanes, through openings made in the wall, the openings being discontinuous and each including a plurality of orifices arranged one behind the other in a direction of the air flow. An upstream orifice of each opening has a larger cross-sectional area than downstream orifices of the opening, and a number and cross section of the downstream orifices are adjusted to suit a predetermined bleed-off flow rate.
US09181952B2
Control method for a washing household appliance comprising a drainage pump unit with an impeller and a motor supplied with an alternating supply voltage of a determined frequency from among a plurality of possible preset frequencies. According to one implementation the method involves an adjustment stage in which the frequency of the motor supply voltage is regulated between the preset frequencies. The method also includes an application stage in which a stator voltage is applied to the motor, the frequency of the motor supply voltage being regulated between the preset frequencies in accordance with the stator voltage applied.
US09181942B2
A control and instrumentation system utilizes a subsea data hub to establish closed loop of between subsea production system components and a surface located controller. The control and instrumentation system can be utilize to operational control all of the required process components of the subsea production system from the surface located controller.
US09181941B2
The invention concerns a circuit comprising a bag (111) comprising two flexible films (145, 146) and routing network connectors, and a press (110) comprising a first shell (114) and a second shell (113) clamping the bag to form pipes (104) between the films, the first shell comprising a pinch valve (120) which comprises an actuator (121) comprising a movable member (124) and in register with the moveable member an elastically compressible pad (131) which, when the valve is in an open position, has a resting configuration in which a second face (33) of the pad is concave and locally delimits a shaping channel (118), and, when the valve is in a closed position, has a pinching configuration in which the second face (133) is convex, with the pipe and the pad sandwiched between a shaping channel (116) and the moveable member.
US09181940B2
Compressor baseplate with stiffening ribs for increased oil volume and rail mounting without spacers
A compressor that includes a housing with a plurality of attached shell sections which define an internal volume of the compressor. In the housing, compressor bodies have respective surfaces which mutually engage. The compressor includes a drive unit disposed in the housing. The drive unit has a motor to provide a mechanical output on a drive shaft. The drive shaft drives one of the compressor bodies to facilitate relative movement for the compression of fluid. In an embodiment, the plurality of shell sections includes a base plate having an annular rib, which locates a tubular central shell section of the plurality of attached shell sections.
US09181928B2
Drive device for a wind mill comprising a large pulley (21) disposed on a main shaft (22) and at least one belt (27) or chain adapted to transfer rotation from the pulley (21) to a generator (30, 31). The pulley (21) is rotationally coupled to at least two secondary shafts (23, 24), which are disposed parallel to the main shaft (22). One or more belts (27), which transfer the rotation, extend over the pulley (21) and the secondary shafts (23, 24). The secondary shafts (23, 24) are in turn rotationally coupled to at least one, preferably two, electric generators (30, 31).
US09181923B2
A method of manufacturing a shell construction part of a wind turbine blade, the shell construction part being made of a fibre reinforced polymer material including a polymer matrix and fibre reinforcement material embedded in the polymer matrix. The method comprises the steps of a) providing a forming structure comprising a mould cavity and having a longitudinal direction, b) placing the fibre reinforcement material in mould cavity, c) providing a resin in the mould cavity simultaneously with and/or subsequently to step b), and d) curing the resin in order to form the composite structure, wherein at least 20% by volume of the fibre reinforcement material consists of metallic wires.
US09181921B2
In a laser ignition apparatus, a focusing optical element is configured to focus a pulsed laser light to a predetermined focal point in a combustion chamber of an engine. An optical window member is arranged on the combustion chamber side of the focusing optical element so as to separate the focusing optical element from the combustion chamber. A catoptric-light focal point, at which a catoptric light is to be focused, is positioned on the anti-combustion chamber side of a combustion chamber-side end surface of the optical window member. The catoptric light results from the reflection of the pulsed laser light by a pseudo mirror that is formed by the optical window member when the combustion chamber-side end surface thereof is fouled with contaminants. Further, the catoptric-light focal point falls in a region where no solid material forming either the focusing optical element or the optical window member exists.
US09181918B2
An assembly includes an engine main body, a spark plug and a gasket. The spark plug is mounted to the engine main body by tightening a male-threaded portion of the spark plug into a female-threaded portion of the engine main body with the gasket elastically deformed between a seat surface of the engine main body and a seating surface of the spark plug. The gasket is made of a metallic material whose yield stress or 0.2% proof stress is not lower than 200 N/mm2. The gasket has first and second contact surfaces respectively in contact with the seating surface of the spark plug and the seat surface of the engine main body. The first and second contact surfaces of the gasket are each formed as a part of a curved surface that has a convex shape, and are offset from each other in a radial direction of the spark plug.
US09181914B2
In a vehicle provided with a power propulsion system of the mild-hybrid type, a BAS unit—including an electric machine connected through a belt transmission to the shaft of an internal combustion engine—is exploited as the only propulsion engine of the vehicle in given operating conditions. The internal combustion engine is provided with a system for variable actuation of the intake valves which is controlled to reduce the pumping losses of the internal combustion engine in the phase in which such engine is in cut-off condition and it is driven by the aforementioned BAS unit. It is also provided for that the system for variable actuation of the intake valves be controlled to temporarily increase the pumping losses of the internal combustion engine in a phase in which it is required to accelerate the switching off of the engine.
US09181912B2
Provided with a control device for an in-cylinder injection type internal combustion engine that reduces an amount of fuel attaching to and remaining on a piston crown surface and a cylinder bore wall surface so as to suppress an increase in the number of exhaust particles of PM when fuel injection is performed a plurality of times in one burning cycle. In divided multi-stage injection in which the fuel to be injected in one burning cycle is divided into a plurality of times, an injection amount rate of injection at an early timing among injections divided into the plurality of times is set according to a fuel cut continuous time at a timing when the fuel injection is resumed from a fuel cut state.
US09181910B2
A control valve is provided, in particular for metering in a fluid for a delivery pump which is arranged downstream. The control valve has a flow channel, an axially movable valve needle, and a valve element which can be loaded by the valve needle in an opening direction and is arranged in the flow channel. If the valve element is actuated in the opening direction by the valve needle, the fluid can flow back through the flow channel at least temporarily counter to the opening direction of the valve element. Upstream of the valve element as viewed in the backflow direction, the flow channel has a fluidically active shield which keeps the backflow at least partially free of a face of the valve element.
US09181901B2
Disclosed herein is a class of gas carburettor (9) for low calorific value gas for A/F ratio control to be used engines operating on producer gas with a load following capabilities. The gas carburettor has A/F ratio from 1.2:1 for producer gas to about 5:1 for biogas. The gas carburettor of the present invention has right A/F control at varying load conditions due to its optimized dimensions at the throat (7) and area ration control flapper (6) along with the zero pressure regulators. Additionally, using a by-pass facility starting the engine is established. By the use of a zero pressure regulator on the gas line, the gas pressure in the air and gas lines are maintained nearly the same downstream of the carburettor which helps in managing the appropriate air-to-fuel ratio based on the gas and air passage areas.
US09181897B2
A sliding member for which adhesiveness between the surface of a base member and metal coating is enhanced. An undercoat layer having a resin material at the surface thereof is provided, and a solid lubricating portion is formed on the undercoat layer so as to provide a sliding face from at least one kind of material of silver, silver alloy, copper and copper alloy. An intermixture layer in which both the undercoat layer and the solid lubricating portion are intermixed with each other is interposed between the undercoat layer and the solid lubricating portion.
US09181896B2
A bearing bushing for a connecting rod and a combination of a connecting rod and a bearing bushing are provided. The connecting rod has a small end which includes a bearing bore. A first region of the bearing bore, which in operation is subjected to compressive loading, is longer than a second region of the bearing bore which is subjected to tensile loading. In order to modify a bearing bushing and a connecting rod so that with simple production and optimized weight the connecting rod has good bearing properties for the piston pin, the bearing bushing already has, before insertion thereof into the bearing bore, a shape adapted to the end edge contour of the bearing bore, wherein the first region of the bearing bushing is likewise longer than the second region thereof. A method of producing such a small end is also disclosed.
US09181891B2
A method and a device for identifying errors in emission-relevant control devices of a vehicle, such as the injection of fuel into a cylinder, allows error identification even if none of the sub-systems exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The method has the following steps: determining whether at least one parameter, which permits conclusions to be drawn about the emission behavior of the respective control device, lies in a desired range; if the parameter lies outside said desired range, an error value that correlates to an increase in emissions is stored; if the parameter is in the desired range, an error value of zero is stored; a total error value is formed from all error values of the control device and an error message is output if the total error value exceeds a predetermined threshold value.
US09181889B2
An exhaust purification system of an internal combustion engine is provided with an exhaust purification catalyst where NOX which is contained in exhaust gas and modified hydrocarbons react. The exhaust purification catalyst carries precious metal catalysts and is formed with a basic exhaust gas flow surface part. The exhaust purification catalyst has the property of reducing NOX if making the concentration of hydrocarbons which flow into the exhaust purification catalyst vibrate by within a predetermined range of amplitude and within a predetermined range of period. The system estimates the holding ability by which the NOX in the exhaust gas is held on the basic exhaust gas flow surface part of the exhaust purification catalyst and, when the holding ability becomes less than a predetermined judgment value of the holding ability, makes the concentration of hydrocarbons which flow into the exhaust purification catalyst rise.
US09181887B2
Methods and systems are provided for accurately learning the zero point of an intake gas oxygen sensor during selected idling conditions. The learned zero point is used to infer EGR flow and accordingly adjust EGR valve control. In addition, EGR valve leakage is diagnosed based on the zero point learned during an idle adaptation relative to a zero point learned during a DFSO adaptation.
US09181882B2
Embodiments for performing an automatic stop-start operation are provided. In one example, a method for an engine comprises during an automatic stop, injecting a water-containing fluid onto a closed intake valve of a cylinder while the engine is at rest, and on a subsequent restart, fueling the cylinder after at least one intake stroke and subsequent exhaust stroke are performed in the cylinder.
US09181879B2
Provided is a control apparatus for an internal combustion engine that can suppress blowback of in-cylinder residual gas to an intake passage when reverting from a fuel-cut operation accompanied by valve stopping control of an intake valve while suppressing an oil ascent during execution of the fuel-cut operation, and a control apparatus for a vehicle equipped with the internal combustion engine. When executing a fuel-cut operation accompanied by intake valve stopping control, advancement control of the opening/closing timing of an exhaust valve (32) is executed. If the advancement control is being executed in a case where a request to revert from the fuel-cut operation has been detected, an advance amount of the opening/closing timing of the exhaust valve (32) is retarded so as to become less than or equal to a predetermined value.
US09181872B2
A power plant includes a first gas turbine engine, a second gas turbine engine, a flue gas duct, a CO2 capture system for treating flue gases from the second gas turbine engine and an exhaust system. It additionally includes at least one among a direct connection between the first gas turbine engine and the exhaust system, and a damper for on-line regulating the flue gases flow through it, a direct connection between the first gas turbine engine and the CO2 capture system, and a damper for regulating the flue gases flow through it, a supply of fresh oxygen containing fluid for the second gas turbine engine.
US09181864B2
A work apparatus has an internal combustion engine for driving a work tool of the work apparatus and a fuel pump which is driven by the engine and delivers fuel from a fuel tank to the engine. The work apparatus has a feed pump which is to be actuated manually by the operator. The fuel pump and the feed pump form one assembly which is arranged outside the fuel tank. The fuel tank has a tank wall which delimits the tank interior. An advantageous arrangement and satisfactory cooling of the assembly are achieved if the assembly is arranged at least partially on the tank wall.
US09181846B2
A flexible tube for an exhaust pipe of an automobile includes a bellows member having corrugations thereon; an interlocking member positioned in the bellows member with a predetermined gap from the bellows member and having a spiral groove formed thereon to absorb deformation; a braid member positioned to surround the outside portion of the bellows member and braided to be flexibly deformed with a large displacement with respect to a displacement and tension in a compression direction; cap members coupled for fixing the braid member on the outside of the both ends of the bellows member; and intermediate members formed in the shape of a ring and having one end fixed to the bellows member and the other end fixed to the interlocking member by overlapping the interlocking member inwards, wherein the bellows member has protrusion portions, a center part and both end parts.
US09181842B2
A temperature sensor includes temperature detecting means and at least one of a catalyst and an adsorbent applied to the surface of the temperature detecting means. At least one of the catalyst and the adsorbent catalyzes an exothermic reaction of a reactant in gas on the temperature detecting means. A temperature that is increased by the exothermic reaction is detected by the temperature detecting means. The catalytic efficiency for the exothermic reaction of at least one of the catalyst and the adsorbent is reduced by sulfur poisoning. The temperature sensor is disposed upstream of an exhaust purification system. Accordingly, it is determined that the temperature sensor is subjected to sulfur poisoning if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is below a prescribed temperature.
US09181836B2
In an internal combustion engine that includes a first secondary air supply unit having a first air pump and a first air switching valve and a second secondary air supply unit having a second air pump and a second air switching valve, a time difference is provided between the operation start timing of the first air pump and the operation start timing of the second air pump, and the open timing of the first air switching valve and the open timing of the second air switching valve are set so as to be simultaneous with each other.
US09181832B2
An exhaust gas after treatment system includes a catalytic converter arrangement with at least one catalytic material, wherein the catalytic converter arrangement is arranged in an exhaust gas path downstream of a combustion engine, and further includes one or more dosing interfaces for feeding at least one reducing agent for reducing an NOx content in the exhaust gas. The one or more dosing interfaces are arranged to feed at least one activator material to the exhaust gas. The activator material causes an enhancement of a catalytic activity of the catalytic material compared to the catalytic activity of the catalytic material without the presence of the activator material at least in a given temperature range.
US09181830B2
An internal combustion engine operates on a six-stroke combustion cycle including a first compression stroke, a first power stroke, a second compression stroke, and a second power stroke. A first fuel charge is introduced to a combustion chamber of the engine at a first fuel rate during the first compression and/or first power stroke to produce lean exhaust gasses. A second fuel charge is also introduced to the combustion chamber during the second compression and/or second power stroke to normally produce lean exhaust gasses. Periodically, the second fuel charge can be increased to a second fuel rate to produce stoichiometric rich exhaust gasses. A lean nitrogen oxide trap can be disposed in an exhaust system associated with the engine to temporarily trap nitrogen oxides. Once saturated, the LNT can be periodically regenerated by production of the rich exhaust gasses.
US09181829B2
An exhaust gas purification device includes an exhaust gas after-treatment device provided in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine, and has an oxidation catalyst and a DPF or diesel particulate filter. The exhaust gas purification device also includes an exhaust pipe injector which feeds a fuel to the oxidation catalyst, and a control unit which controls regeneration of the filter by supplying the oxidation catalyst with the fuel from the exhaust pipe injector. The control unit determines whether the filter is in a regeneration-possible state, i.e., whether the oxidation catalyst is maintained at a high temperature allowing regeneration of the filter. If the control unit determines during regeneration control of the filter that the filter is not in the regeneration-possible state, then the control unit halts the regeneration control until the regeneration-possible state is reached.
US09181825B2
A device and method for double actuating, by pressure differential, a valve of a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine, wherein the double actuating device comprises an actuator piston displaceably arranged in an actuator cylinder between two chambers of inversely varying volume, mechanically attached to the stem of said valve. The actuating forces on said valve are selectively controllable via pressurized manifolds. The valves are double actuated independently of engine operation, the method allowing for variation in timing, duration, and lift under an electronically controlled fluid circuit, using alterable constants to allow for modifiable operating modes, also allowing reprogramming of said electronics to provide for in-place upgrades.
US09181820B2
A valve mechanism for an internal combustion engine is provided with a cam that rotates in conjunction with rotation of a crankshaft, an engine valve that is lifted and opened along with rotation of the cam, a variable lift amount mechanism that is arranged between the cam and the engine valve and varies the maximum amount of lift of the engine valve, and a lost motion mechanism that is arranged between the cam and the engine valve and absorbs the amount of lift of the engine valve by contracting when drive force is received from the cam to maintain a closed state of the engine valve. The maximum amount of contraction of the lost motion mechanism is set to such a value that the lost motion mechanism absorbs the minimum value of the maximum lift amount of the engine valve.
US09181817B2
The present disclosure relates to a seal assembly for a turbomachine that includes at least one arcuate plate, a biasing member, and a packing ring. In addition, the seal assembly includes a plurality of arcuate teeth disposed intermediate to the packing ring and the rotor. The plurality of arcuate teeth includes at least one subset of arcuate teeth. The clearance of at least one of the arcuate teeth is different from the clearances of the rest of the arcuate teeth. The clearances of the arcuate teeth of the at least one subset do not progressively increase going from an upstream to a downstream side of the turbomachinery.
US09181816B2
A seal assembly between a disc cavity and a hot gas path in a gas turbine engine includes a stationary vane assembly and a rotating blade assembly axially upstream from the vane assembly. A platform of the blade assembly has a radially outwardly facing first surface, an axially downstream facing second surface defining an aft plane, and a plurality of grooves extending into the second surface such that the grooves are recessed from the aft plane The grooves are arranged such that a circumferential space is defined between adjacent grooves During operation of the engine, the grooves impart a circumferential velocity component to purge air flowing out of a disc cavity through the grooves to guide the purge air toward a hot gas path such that the purge air flows in a desired direction with reference to a direction of hot gas flow through the hot gas path.
US09181811B2
The present invention relates to a device (10) for varying blade pitch of a rotary wing aircraft (50) having a main rotor (11) with a plurality of blades (12), each blade (12) including at least one main flap (13) fastened to the trailing edge of the blade (12). The angle of inclination of each flap (13) is controlled via a swashplate (20). The device (10) makes provision for electric actuators controlled by a flight control system (54) to be mounted in a stationary frame of reference for the purpose of moving and varying the angle of inclination of the non-rotary plate of the swashplate (20). The electric actuators provide primary flight control and also multi-cyclic control for the purpose of attenuating noise and vibration as generated in particular by the blades (12) and the rotor (11).
US09181807B2
The airfoil member of the present invention is provided with an airfoil body, an end wall which is installed at an end part of the airfoil body, a fillet portion which smoothly connects the end part of the airfoil body with the end wall, and a cooling channel which allows a cooling medium to circulate inside the airfoil body and the end wall and in which two main channels are connected so as to bend in a folding manner at a return channel. The return channel is formed so as to run along the fillet portion on a cross section intersecting with a center line of a profile of the airfoil body and also formed in such a manner that the width thereof in the profile thickness direction is greater than the width of the main channel in the profile thickness direction.
US09181799B1
A sampling system and a method for sampling fluid from a target zone within a well bore without commingling fluid from other zones in the well. The sampling system includes a hydraulic flow control system and a differential flow logging system. The hydraulic flow control system has a plurality of multi-level, vertically disposed pumps with fluid extraction rates set to generate hydraulic zones above and below a center one of the pumps. The hydraulic zones isolate fluid flow in a target zone surrounding the center pump, and the center pump collects a sample from the isolated target zone without mixing fluid from other zones of the well. The differential logging system has a plurality of flow devices. Each of the plurality of flow devices is disposed near one of the hydraulic zones to monitor vertical flow in the well and confirm isolation of the target zone.
US09181786B1
A method and system for producing a subsea well includes installing a pump and a gas/liquid separator on a sea floor. The system flows well fluid up the well to the pump, boosting the pressure of the well fluid. The system flows the well fluid from the pump into the gas/liquid separator and separates gas from the well fluid. The stream of liquid flows up a flow line to a remote production facility. The stream of gas is injected back into the well at a selected depth to mix with the well fluid flowing up the well. The injection of gas creates a gas lift system that lightens the hydrostatic pressure of the well fluid in the well.
US09181782B2
The isolation tool works at depth in the bore of a pipe whose upper end is to be severed and replaced. The tool isolates the lower pipe bore from the upper bore so that flammable downhole fluid is prevented from reaching a welding site along the pipe wall. The tool incorporates: means for establishing a pair of axially spaced apart annular seals engaging the pipe inner surface; means for venting downhole fluid to ground surface; and means for monitoring for seal leakage. The tool is primarily mechanical in nature. It finds use in connection with off-shore platform riser renewal operations.
US09181776B2
Apparatus and methods for fluidly communicating between conduit strings and wells through crossovers forming a subterranean manifold string, usable for pressure contained underground hydrocarbon operations, storage and solution mining. Concentric conduits enable fluid communication with one or more subterranean regions through an innermost passageway usable for communicating fluids and devices engagable with a receptacle of the manifold. A wall of the manifold string and/or a selectively placed fluid control device diverts fluid mixture flow streams from one passageway to another radially disposed inward or outward passageway to selectively control pressurized fluid communication, thereby forming a plurality of pressure bathers. The pressure bathers can be used to selectively communicate fluid mixtures to and from a reservoir for hydrocarbon operations, solution mining, and/or control of a storage cushion space during such operations.
US09181773B2
A packer having at least two or more areas of relative rotation. The packer also incorporates a jet port, a highly debossed mandrel and/or a J-pin rotatably disposed within a drag block assembly for continuously and redundantly engaging a J-slot area disposed in the mandrel. The areas of relative rotation can be between the mandrel and piping above the packer, the drag block assembly and the mandrel, and the drag block assembly and the J-pin.
US09181770B2
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a jar including the following: a mandrel; an outer housing slidably disposed about the mandrel; a ball stop housing disposed below the outer housing; a lower sub disposed below the ball stop housing; and a ball stop assembly disposed in the ball stop housing. The ball stop assembly includes a ball stop pivotally disposed in the ball stop assembly.
US09181768B2
The disclosed device provides a high-accuracy plunger arrival detection system comprising a low-power magnetometer with high sensitivity and which is capable of sampling low or high intensity magnetic fields. The device processes gathered data from sensors, stores at least some processed data in memory, executes a trending algorithm which compares the magnetic field of the plunger to the ambient magnetic field or a predetermined set of initialization values, and generates an output which is relayed to a well controller. An output signal may be via hard wire, RF, wireless or other known means. In addition, the implementation of two sensing devices mounted in series and in spaced relation to each other, can provide for an actual plunger average velocity. An actual plunger average velocity, as opposed to approximate average velocity, can be used to better optimize well control and improve safety of the overall well production system.
US09181766B2
A breakout tool including a breakout tong adapted to grip a first one of the two components of a drill string. The breakout tool can be used for breaking out the two components of a drill string while a second one of the two components is held stationary. The breakout tong includes a first jaw and a second jaw, with the second jaw pivotally coupled to the first jaw at a first pivot point. A small hydraulic cylinder is provided in the breakout tong for forcing the second jaw to pivot about the first pivot point when it is activated wherein, in use, the first drill string component can be gripped between the second jaw and the first jaw. A main hydraulic cylinder is adapted to be mounted on the drill rig, and which is mechanically coupled to the breakout tong for applying a torque to the breakout tong. In use, the two components of the drill string can be broken apart by the breakout tong gripping the first drill string component and applying a torque thereto via the main hydraulic cylinder.
US09181760B2
The present invention provides a system and methods for motion-based scrolling of a relatively large contents view on an electronic device with a relatively small screen display. The user controls the scrolling by changing the device's tilt relative to a baseline tilt. The scrolling control can follow a Proportional Scroll mode, where the relative tilt directly controls the screen position over the contents view, or a Dynamic Scroll mode where the relative tilt controls the scrolling speed. The present invention obtains a criterion for automatically selecting the best scrolling mode when the dimensions of the contents view change. The baseline tilt is updated when the screen reaches an edge of the contents view to eliminate the creation of a non responsive range of tilt changes when the user changes tilt direction.
US09181756B2
A drill bit and method of drilling a wellbore. The drill bit includes a pad configured to extend and retract from a surface of the drill bit, and a force application device configured to extend and retract the pad. The force application device includes a screw driven by an electric motor that linearly moves a drive unit to extend and retract the pad from the drill bit surface. The drill bit may be conveyed by a drill string and the pad may be extended from the drill bit face to drill the wellbore.
US09181752B2
A steering head for use with a casing, the steering head having a body with a first body end with a lead edge, a second body end with a rear edge, and a body surface extending from the lead edge to the rear edge, an outer tube with an internal side generally facing the body surface, the outer tube extending from the first body end to the second body end, and a steering flap disposed on an external side of the outer tube having a first flap face facing radially inwardly and a second flap face facing radially outwardly. A fluid dispenser is disposed in a void defined between the outer tube and the body.
US09181746B2
A locking mechanism for use with a window having a hinge coupling a sash to a frame includes a keeper and a locking lug. The keeper includes a generally planar base plate that is abutable to a surface of either the sash or the frame and two wings extending upwardly from the base, each of the wings having an upwardly and inwardly extending portion extending from the base plate and an inwardly extending portion extending inwardly substantially parallel to the base plate from the upwardly and inwardly extending portion. The two inwardly extending portions define a gap therebetween. The planar base further includes at least one self locating leg extending outward and coplanar with the base. The self locating leg adapted to abut a portion of the sash or the frame. Thus, the keeper is positionable without a fixture.
US09181740B2
A center door assembly for a dump bed and a method for removing the door from the dump bed. A frame is mounted in a wall of the dump bed and has a pair of opposite and spaced apart channels. A pair of elastomeric inserts are removably mounted in the channels. A retractable door has a pair of edges slidably received in the inserts and is movable linearly within the channels between a closed position and an open position. A pivot linkage assembly is operatively connected to the door for linearly moving the door between the closed and open positions. The elastomeric inserts are removed from the channels through a bottom opening in the channels providing lateral space between the channels to enable the door to be removed from the frame. The elastomeric inserts are provided with bend areas enabling them to be compressed for removal from the channels.
US09181732B2
A latch release system for releasing a latch, the system having a rest position and an actuated position and requiring a first force to move the system from the rest position to the actuated position, the system including an inertia event sensor and a means for increasing the force required to operate system, wherein when the inertia event sensor detects an inertia event it activates said means so the system requires a second force, greater than the first force, to move the system to the actuated position.
US09181730B1
An improved driving structure of an electronic lock includes an outdoor assembly, a lock core, an indoor assembly, and a latch bolt. The outdoor assembly is mounted to an outside surface of a door panel. The indoor assembly is mounted to an inside surface of the door panel. The lock core is arranged between the outdoor assembly and the indoor assembly and coupled thereto. The lock core is operatively coupled to the latch bolt. As such, an improved structure of an electronic lock is constructed. When a user enters a correct combination of codes, the electrical valve of the lock core stretches the projection block outward to engage the second stopper so as to allow the exterior handle and the lock core to be operated synchronously for unlocking. Without the combination of codes, a key may be used to unlock the door.
US09181713B1
Siding attachment system is disclosed having a base and an attachment member. The base has an engaging wall extending from a back plate. The engaging wall has a plurality of base teeth. The back plate is configured to attach to a support wall. The attachment member has a receiving wall extending from a mounting plate. The receiving wall has a receiving opening configured to receive the engaging wall. The receiving wall comprises two interior walls adjacent the receiving opening. Each interior wall comprises one or more receiving teeth extending into the receiving opening to engage one or more of the base teeth to releasably join the attachment member to the base. The mounting plate comprises a surface for supporting siding.
US09181704B2
A roof panel includes a planar body having top and bottom edges, with a downturn edge extending therebetween, and an opposing channel edge. The downturn edge overlays a channel edge of an adjacent panel. The bottom edge overlays a top edge of another adjacent panel. A plurality of courses extends between the channel and downturn edges. Each course includes a nesting ridge to receive the downturn edge of an adjacent panel and to position a top surface of the panel flush with adjacent panels. Surface channels and contoured ridges are defined within each course. A drain aperture of the drip edge aligns with an adjacent channel edge to direct material through the drain aperture and onto adjacent panels. A gable member engages an edge when the panel has one or fewer laterally adjacent panels, wherein the gable member is flush with the adjacent planar body.
US09181701B2
A longitudinal connection is formed for wooden components and a corresponding wooden component. A fitting piece is glued in a recess to the outer or bottom sides of the at least two glued laminated girders to be connected in such a way that a scarf joint is created at least in a partial length of the fitting piece between the fitting piece and the respective glued laminated girder originating from the tapered and transition regions of the fitting piece in the direction of the end of the associated glued laminated girder.
US09181694B1
The present invention relates to a building for a high-rise construction. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide for a single, cohesive building that has the appearance of a multi-segmented building. Each segment of the building may be separated by an open-air area and have a different façade than adjacent segments.
US09181682B2
A system and method are provided for controlling a movable element in accordance with a speed command. The movable element, which may be an excavator swing platform, is moved via an actuator that is driven in accordance with a torque command. The speed of the movable element is sensed, and a torque command is generated via PID control based on the speed command and the sensed speed. The PID control uses a set of gains including a P-gain, an I-gain, and a D-gain. At least one of these gains is set based on a counter, and the counter is set, cleared, incremented, or decremented based on one or more of the speed command, the torque command and the sensed speed. In this way, the movable element responds aggressively to operator input, but stability is maintained.
US09181681B2
The working vehicle may include a working apparatus in which an attachment is attachably mounted, a flow rate limitation setting means to set the maximum flow rate of hydraulic oil, an engine revolution sensor, a cam plate angle sensor, a valve opening degree sensor to measure a present flow rate of the hydraulic oil, a switching valve to switch between a single acting type and a double acting type, a display, a main controller to connect the flow rate limitation setting means, the engine revolution sensor, the cam plate angle sensor, the valve opening degree sensor, the switching valve, and the display apparatus. The maximum flow rate and the present flow rate, which are set by the flow rate limitation setting means, may be simultaneously displayed on the display apparatus.
US09181679B2
The present invention is intended to provide a working machine allowing to form a large opening angle of an equipment cover while avoiding an obstacle even existing in front thereof. A rotating base is installed on a travelling machine body which includes right and left travelling devices, wherein an operation seat and vehicle equipment are arranged in the right and left, an equipment cover for covering the vehicle equipment is openably and closably provided, and a front lower portion of the equipment cover is pivotally supported on the rotating base via a lateral shaft. The lateral shaft of the equipment cover is inclined rearward from one end which is positioned in a side of the operation seat to the other end which is positioned in a side of a side portion of the rotating base.
US09181666B2
A universal garbage pick-up tool includes a main body, an inner support tube, at least two guard members positioned between the main body and inner support tube, a pushing rod positioned within the inner support tube, a push button operatively connected to a proximal end of each guard member and a proximal end of the pushing rod, and a plurality of spring claws attached to a distal end of the pushing rod. The spring claws are positioned within the inner support tube, and the guard members and the spring claws are released upon the actuation of the push button, thereby allowing the spring claws to extend axially from a distal end of the main body. An adjustment ring may be attached to the distal end of the main body, including at least two pins circumferentially spaced apart. A magnet may be positioned within the push button of the pick-up tool.
US09181665B2
A barrier system includes a plurality of elongated barriers each having longitudinally spaced ends, each configured with a connector having a pair of laterally spaced openings. The barriers are arranged in an end-to-end configuration, wherein at least two adjacent barriers are arranged with both of the pairs of openings of adjacent connectors being aligned. In one embodiment, at least two other adjacent barriers may be arranged with only one of the openings in each pair of adjacent connectors being aligned. A barrier and methods of assembling a barrier system are also provided.
US09181662B2
A screed assembly includes a screed assembly frame and a screed plate removably connected to the screed assembly frame to define a space between the screed assembly frame and the screed plate. A heating element and a hold down device for securing the heating element can be provided in the space between the screed assembly frame and the screed plate. The heating element is configured to be removed from the space by sliding the heating element out of the space and disengaging the heating element from the hold down device without removing the screed plate from the screed assembly frame.
US09181657B2
The invention provides a method of improving dewatering efficiency, increasing sheet wet web strength, increasing sheet wet strength and enhancing filler retention in a papermaking process. The method improves the efficiency of drainage aids or wet web strength aids or wet strength aid by coating at least some of the filler particles with a natural gum and with a material that prevents the filler materials form adhering to those additives. The drainage additive or wet web strength additive or wet strength aid holds the cellulose fibers together tightly and is not wasted on the filler particles.
US09181651B2
A hand-held clothing iron that solves the problems of the prior art by providing a clamping iron that is used on an article of clothing while it remains hanging, including the ability to apply disparate levels of heat to different sections of the clothing to provide the ideal temperature for each section.
US09181646B2
A method of manufacturing a velvet plush article includes the steps of: weaving a greige cloth by interweaving face yarns and backing yarns, wherein the face yarns are selected from single-ply bright trilobal yarns and two-ply yarns and the backing yarns are selected from FDY or DTY yarn; pre-processing the greige cloth by brushing, first setting, singeing and second setting the greige cloth sequentially; dyeing and/or printing the greige cloth; and finishing the greige cloth by softening, drying, brushing, stentering, heat-setting, singeing, shearing and final heat-setting the greige cloth. Accordingly, a velvet plush article having superior smoothness and softness for providing a superior touch and feel comfort is achieved. The velvet plush article may be a velvet plush throw or blanket, or a velvet plush cloth for further processing.
US09181642B2
A triaxial textile armature is provided for making composite materials. The armature includes a central layer of axial yarns cross-linked by bias yarns extending in a first and a second direction the bias yarns extending in the first direction passing through the central layer of axial yarns in even intervals between axial yarns of the central, and the bias yarns extending in the second direction passing through the central layer of axial yarns in odd intervals.
US09181634B2
The invention concerns a particle having a code from a library of codes embedded in its physical structure by refractive index changes between different regions of the particle. In preferred embodiments, a thin film possesses porosity that varies in a manner to produce a code detectable in the reflectivity spectrum. An assay detection method uses such a particle and detects a spectral shift in the presence of an analyte. Additional embodiments are disclosed including additional features.
US09181630B2
This method for disposing fine objects, in a substrate preparing step, prepares a substrate having specified positions where fine objects (120) are to be disposed in an area where a first electrode (111) and a second electrode (112) face each other, and in a fluid introducing step, a fluid (121) is introduced on the substrate (110). The fluid (121) contains a plurality of the fine objects (120). The fine objects (120) are diode elements, each of which has, as an alignment structure, a front side layer (130) composed of a dielectric material, and a rear side layer (131) composed of a semiconductor. In the fine object disposing step, by applying an AC voltage to between the first electrode (111) and the second electrode (112), the fine objects (120) are disposed by dielectrophoresis with the front side layer (130) facing up at the predetermined positions in the area (A) where the first electrode (111) and the second electrode (112) face each other.
US09181628B2
A coating/sealant system that includes a coating and a sealant deposited over at least a portion of the coating, in which the coating includes a reaction product formed from reactants comprising a phosphated epoxy resin and a curing agent, and the sealant includes a sulfur-containing polymer.
US09181622B2
The present invention relates to a process for metallizing electrically nonconductive plastic surfaces of articles. During the process, the rack to which the said articles are fastened is subjected to a treatment for protection against metallization. Subsequently, the articles are metallized by means of known processes, wherein the racks remain free of metal.
US09181621B2
In one aspect, cutting tools are described having coatings adhered thereto which, in some embodiments, can demonstrate desirable wear resistance and increased cutting lifetimes. A coated cutting tool, in some embodiments, comprises a substrate and a coating adhered to the substrate, the coating comprising a polycrystalline layer of TiZrAl2O3.
US09181617B2
Provided is a sputtering target of ferromagnetic material comprising a metal having a composition containing 20 mol % or less of Cr, and Co as the remainder; wherein the target structure includes a phase (A) which is a basis metal, and metal phases (B) having a component composition different from the peripheral texture within the phase (A), the area ratio occupied by oxides within 1 μm from the most outer periphery of metal phases (B) is 80% or less, and the average grain size of the metal phases (B) is 10 μm or more and 150 μm or less. Provided is a sputtering target of ferromagnetic material capable of inhibiting the generation of particles during sputtering, and improving the pass-through flux to achieve a stable electrical discharge with a magnetron sputtering device.
US09181614B2
One subject of the invention is a process for manufacturing a metal strip having a metal coating for corrosion protection, comprising the steps consisting in: making the metal strip pass through a bath of molten metal, comprising 0.2 to 8% by weight of aluminum and magnesium in the following proportions: 0.1 to 8% by weight of magnesium for an aluminum content equal to or greater than 0.2% but less than 4% by weight or a content greater than 5% but less than or equal to 8% by weight of magnesium for an aluminum content equal to or greater than 4% but less than or equal to 8% by weight, and comprising up to 0.3% by weight of addition elements, the balance being zinc and inevitable impurities; then wiping the coated metal strip by means of nozzles that spray a gas on each side of the strip, said gas having an oxidizing power lower than that of an atmosphere consisting of 4% oxygen by volume and 96% nitrogen by volume; and then making the strip pass through a confinement zone bounded: at the bottom, by the wiping line and the upper external faces of said wiping nozzles, at the top, by the upper part of two confinement boxes placed on each side of the strip, just above said nozzles, and having a height of at least 10 cm in relation to the wiping line and on the sides, by the lateral parts of said confinement boxes, the atmosphere in said confinement zone having an oxidizing power lower than that of an atmosphere consisting of 4% oxygen by volume and 96% nitrogen by volume and higher than that of an atmosphere consisting of 0.15% oxygen by volume and 99.85% nitrogen by volume. Other subjects of the invention are a metal strip that can be obtained by this process and a metal part obtained by deforming this strip.
US09181613B2
A high tensile strength hot-dip galvannealed steel sheet having excellent coated-layer adhesiveness in which the hot-dip galvannealed layer does not peel off from a base steel sheet even in being subjected to working accompanied by sliding and a method for producing the same are provided. In the high tensile strength hot-dip galvannealed steel sheet, a hot-dip galvannealed layer is formed on the surface of the base steel sheet, the base steel sheet contains Si by 0.04-2.5%, and, when the surface roughness of the base steel sheet after the hot-dip galvannealed layer is removed by dissolution with an acid is measured for a plurality of locations by a laser microscope, the arithmetic mean inclination angle (RΔa) is 23.0° or more and the root mean square inclination angle (RΔq) is 29.0° or more in 60% or more of all of the locations measured.
US09181611B2
Disclosed are methods and systems for controlling of the microstructures of a soldered, brazed, welded, plated, cast, or vapor deposited manufactured component. The systems typically use relatively weak magnetic fields of either constant or varying flux to affect material properties within a manufactured component, typically without modifying the alloy, or changing the chemical composition of materials or altering the time, temperature, or transformation parameters of a manufacturing process. Such systems and processes may be used with components consisting of only materials that are conventionally characterized as be uninfluenced by magnetic forces.
US09181609B2
Provided is a steel pipe for a linepipe having high compressive strength, a heavy wall thickness and sour gas resistance. The steel pipe has the composition which contains by mass % 0.02 to 0.06% C, 0.01 to 0.5% Si, 0.8 to 1.6% Mn, 0.012% or less P, 0.0015% or less S, 0.01 to 0.08% Al, 0.005 to 0.050% Nb, 0.005 to 0.025% Ti, 0.0005 to 0.0035% Ca, 0.0020 to 0.0060% N, and Fe and unavoidable impurities as a balance. The steel pipe has metal microstructure where a fraction of bainite is 80% or more, a fraction of M-A constituent is 2% or less and an average grain size of bainite is 5 μm or less.
US09181608B2
A magnesium alloy sheet is made of a magnesium alloy containing Al. Particles of an intermetallic compound containing at least one of Al and Mg are present in the sheet in a dispersed state. The sheet includes an oxide film which extends substantially over the surface of the sheet and which has a uniform thickness. The average size of the particles of the intermetallic compound is 0.5 μm or less. The percentage of the total area of the particles is 11% or less. Therefore, the magnesium alloy sheet is excellent corrosion resistance. A magnesium alloy structural member is provided.
US09181605B2
The present invention relates to a treatment method of spent uranium catalyst, and more specifically, to a method which can considerably reduce the volume of the spent uranium catalyst to be disposed of and simultaneously minimize secondary wastes that can be generated during the process of treating the spent uranium catalyst.
US09181601B2
It is described a manganese pellet production from non-calcinated manganese ore, comprising the following phases: (a) ore size preparation through ore classification by function of particle size, smaller or equal to 1 mm particles being maintained from the ore particle fraction process so as to have a smaller or equal to 1 mm size, as well as the comminution of these particles; (b) flux addition; (c) agglomerant addition; (d) pelletizing resulting in crude pellets; and (e) thermal processing through crude pellet drying, pre-heating and heating.
US09181599B2
A method for heat-treating a ring-shaped member includes the steps of: forming, by relatively rotating an coil along the circumferential direction of the formed body, an annular heated region in the formed body, the heated region having the steel austenitized therein; and simultaneously cooling a whole of the heated region to a temperature of not more than an Ms point. In the step of forming the heated region, the heating is performed to repeatedly change over for a plurality of times between a state in which each region of the rolling contact surface has a temperature exceeding a temperature of an A1 point and a state in which each region of the rolling contact surface has a temperature that is less than the temperature of the A1 point and that maintains a supercooled austenite state.
US09181588B2
The application describes methods for screening subjects with breast cancer to determine if the breast cancer will be responsive to a breast cancer therapy including a taxane or a taxane derivative. The application also describes methods for treating subjects with breast cancer by screening them for the likelihood of the effectiveness of treating the cancer with a therapy including a taxane or a taxane derivative and administering the therapy in subjects when it is found that a taxane or a taxane derivative is likely to be effective.
US09181586B2
The invention provides tandem single nucleotide polymorphisms and methods for their use, for example, in diagnosing Down Syndrome.
US09181582B2
The invention provides methods for isothermal amplification of RNA. The methods are particularly suitable for amplifying a plurality of RNA species in a sample. The methods employ a composite primer, a second primer and strand displacement to generate multiple copies of DNA products comprising sequences complementary to an RNA sequence of interest. In another aspect, the methods employ a single primer (which is a composite primer) and strand displacement to generate multiple copies of DNA products comprising sequences complementary to an RNA sequence of interest. In some embodiments, a transcription step is included to generate multiple copies of sense RNA of an RNA sequence of interest. The methods are useful for preparation of nucleic acid libraries and substrates for analysis of gene expression of cells in biological samples. The invention also provides compositions and kits for practicing the amplification methods, as well as methods which use the amplification products.
US09181579B2
The present invention relates to a method of detection of a compound of interest that is present at low levels in a sample. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of detection of a compound of interest in solution by a nucleic acid-labelled binding construct, separation of the unbound nucleic acid-labelled binding construct, and the detection of the bound nucleic acid-labelled binding construct in the solution phase. The present invention is particularly adaptable to be used in conjunction with a nucleic acid amplification reaction for detecting the presence or absence of the nucleic acid portion of binding construct in a sample indicating the presence or absence of the compound of interest.
US09181570B2
The present disclosure provides acyltransferases useful for synthesizing therapeutically important statin compound.
US09181559B2
Transgenic plants, plant material, plant cells, and genetic constructs for synthesis of biopolymers, for example polyhydroxyalkanoates (“PHA”) are provided. In one embodiment, the transgenic plants synthesize polyhydroxybutyrate (“PHB”). In one embodiment the transgenic plant encodes siRNA for one or more of the genes encoding enzymes for producing PHA. In a more preferred embodiment, the siRNA expression is under the control of an inducible regulatory element. In another embodiment, the transgenic plant contains transgenes that encode expression enzymes that will degrade the polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the expression of these enzymes is under the control of a germination specific, inducible, or minimal promoter. In another embodiment, the transgenic plant contains transgenes encoding enzymes that increase carbon flow for polymer synthesis. In a preferred embodiment, these transgenes encode enzymes that increase carbon flow in the Calvin Cycle.
US09181551B2
The present invention concerns methods and reagents useful in modulating gene expression in a variety of applications, including use in therapeutic, diagnostic, target validation, and genomic discovery applications. Specifically, the invention relates to synthetic chemically modified small nucleic acid molecules, such as short interfering nucleic acid (siNA), short interfering RNA (siRNA), double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) molecules capable of mediating RNA interference (RNAi) against target nucleic acid sequences. The small nucleic acid molecules are useful in the treatment of any disease or condition that responds to modulation of gene expression or activity in a cell, tissue, or organism.
US09181545B2
The present invention provides lipid-based formulations for delivering, e.g., introducing, nucleic acid-lipid particles comprising an interference RNA molecule to a cell, and assays for optimizing the delivery efficiency of such lipid-based formulations.
US09181533B2
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for modulating (promoting or inhibiting) growth of a tissue, such as bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, brown fat and/or neuronal tissue and for treating metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity, as well as disorders associated with any of the foregoing tissue.
US09181529B2
Methods and composition for differentiation of pluripotent stem cells are provided. For example, in certain aspects methods including screening of optimal differentiation conditions for a selected stem cell clone in a selected batch of culture medium and use of the determined optimal condition for differentiation into a specific cell lineage.
US09181528B2
The present invention provides methods to promote the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into insulin producing cells. In particular, the present invention provides a method utilizing a CYP26A inhibitor to produce a population of pancreatic endocrine precursor cells.
US09181525B2
Disclosed is a method for enhancing the function of a T cell, which is characterized by inhibiting the expression of programmed death-1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and/or programmed death-1 ligand 2 (PD-L2) in the T cell. Also disclosed is a function-enhanced T cell which is produced by the function enhancement method. Further disclosed is a therapeutic agent comprising the function-enhanced T cell. The T cell can enhance an immune response to cancer, and is useful in an immunotherapy effective for cancer and the treatment or prevention of infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.
US09181517B1
A composition for cleaning contact lenses and producing a removable visible discharge comprising: polyvinyl-alcohol; povidone; and an isotonic contact solution.
US09181515B2
A composition for treating a hard surface. The composition has: (a) at least one adhesion promoter; (b) at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting of: anionic, non-ionic, cationic, amphoteric, zwitterionic, and combinations thereof; (c) mineral oil; (d) water; (e) optionally, at least one solvent; and wherein the composition is self-adhering upon application to a surface to be treated, and wherein the composition provides a wet film to said surface when water passes over said composition and surface.
US09181511B2
The present invention relates to lubricating oil compositions comprising sulfurised esters that exhibit good antioxidancy performance whilst maintaining nitrile elastomer seal compatibility
US09181510B2
The invention provides a lubricating composition containing a copolymer comprising units derived from monomers (i) α-olefin and (ii) an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid or derivatives thereof esterified and amidated with an alcohol and an aromatic amine respectively, and an oil of lubricating viscosity. The invention further relates to the use of the lubricating composition in an internal combustion engine.
US09181509B2
Efficient coal pre-processing systems (69) integrated with gasification, oxy-combustion, and power plant systems include a drying chamber (28), a volatile metal removal chamber (30), recirculated gases, including recycled carbon dioxide (21), nitrogen (6), and gaseous exhaust (60) for increasing the efficiencies and lowering emissions in various coal processing systems.
US09181508B2
Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, methods of making the fuel feed stocks, methods of producing energy from the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles and contain a sorbent. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels. In addition, one or more sorbents can be added to the feed stocks in order to reduce the amount of a variety of pollutants present in traditional fuel and feed stocks, including, but not limited, sulfur and chlorine. Further, these feed stocks with added sorbent can mitigate corrosion, improve fuel conversion, extend power generating plant lifetime, reduce ash slagging, and reduced operating temperature.
US09181506B2
Carbohydrates as derived from plant biomass can be converted into mono-alcohols, diols, and/or bi-functional alcohols or into carboxylic acid derivatives. By catalytic transesterification of such carbohydrate derivatives, ester-type diesel-fuel blendstock components may be produced. More specifically, alkyl levulinates are catalytically trans-esterified with hydroxyl-functionalized compounds where both the alcohols and the alkyl levulinates are derived from biomass carbohydrates. Esters produced in this way show physicochemical characteristics that make them suitable for use as diesel fuel blendstock.
US09181505B2
The instant invention pertains to new processes which produce an energy source effectively, efficiently, and in a more environmentally friendly manner. The process comprises hydrolyzing a lignocellulosic feedstock to form lignocellulosic hydrolyzate and a hydrolyzate residue. The lignocellulosic hydrolyzate is treated to produce hydrogen. The hydrolyzate residue may be reacted with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst to yield the energy source.
US09181504B2
Method and system for gasifying biomass. Tar loaded gas from the reactor for gasifying the biomass is subjected to a saturation and absorption treatment with a first and second fluid respectively. The first fluid comprises aromatic hydrocarbons whilst the second fluid comprises linear hydrocarbons. Tars received in the aromatic fluid is entered together with such fluid in a separation column. Separation is effected based on evaporation temperature and the lighter fraction is returned to the inflow of the saturation separator. The heavier fractions are either discharged or sent back to the biomass reactor. An intermediate buffer vessel can be provided between the discharge of the saturation cleaner and the separator.
US09181500B2
A process and apparatus for recycling LCO and/or HCO to a hydroprocessing zone to saturate aromatics for cracking in an FCC unit is disclosed. The recycle cracked stream may be recycled to a downstream hydroprocessing zone to avoid a first hydroprocessing zone that is primarily for demetallizing (and desulfurizing) feed to the FCC unit.
US09181487B2
A process for preparing ethylenedialkylphosphinic acids, ethylenedialkylphosphinic esters and ethylenedialkylphosphinic salts, wherein a) a phosphinic acid source (I) is reacted with olefins (IV) in the presence of a catalyst A to give an alkylphosphonous acid, its salt or ester (II), b) the resultant alkylphosphonous acid, its salt or ester (II) is reacted with an acetylenic compound (V) in the presence of a catalyst B, to give the ethylenedialkylphosphinic acid derivative (III), and the catalyst A comprises transition metals, transition-metal compounds and/or catalyst systems which are composed of a transition metal and/or a transition-metal compound and at least one ligand, and the catalyst B comprises peroxide-forming compounds, peroxo compounds and/or azo compounds.
US09181486B2
Aerogel materials, aerogel composites and the like may be improved by enhancing their smoke suppression, combustion reduction properties. It is additionally useful to provide aerogel based composites compatible with environments conducive to combustion. Such aerogel materials and methods of manufacturing the same are described.
US09181472B2
Semiconductor nanocrystal compositions comprising magnesium containing shells and methods of preparing them are described. The compositions provide strong emission in the blue and green wavelengths as well as chemical and photostability that have not been achieved with conventional shell materials.
US09181471B2
A light emitting device including: a blue light source; a phosphor; and a semiconductor nanocrystal, and emits white light having a R1-R8 average color rendering index (“CRI”) of greater than or equal to about 90, and a R9 red color rendering index (R9) of greater than or equal to about 90.
US09181461B2
A hot melt sealant and foam-in-place gasket composition based on a rubber such as ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and/or ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM) and at least one semicrystalline olefinic polymer. The hot melt composition includes the rubber or a blend of rubbers in an amount of 5% to 50% by weight, at least one semicrystalline olefinic polymer in an amount of 5% to 40% by weight, at least one amorphous poly-α-olefin (APAO) polymer in an amount of 0% to 70% by weight, a compatible tackifier in an amount of 0% to 50% by weight, and a plasticizer in an amount of at least 30% by weight. The composition is particularly useful for foamed gasket applications as a replacement for pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) coated foam tape.
US09181460B2
A two-part, solvent-free laminating adhesive including a Part A that is a liquid mixture of a first polyol and a hydroxyl functional acrylic polymer having a molecular weight of no greater than 15,000 g/mole, and a Part B that is an isocyanate-terminated polyurethane prepolymer. The adhesive is especially suited for making flexible laminates for use in food packaging. When adhered two polymeric film materials and in cured form, the adhesive provides substantially no contribution to the oxygen barrier properties of the laminate.
US09181459B2
A splicing tape for accurately aligning and joining spliced component carrier reels is disclosed. The flexible splice tape allows the components to remain aligned and picked from a component carrier reel without interruption at the union of a first and second reel. The splice tape with an optional stiffening strip provides a flexible, yet strong connection to prevent back and forth, axial and lateral movement between spliced reels. The detection of the disclosed splice tape facilitates elimination of incorrect and mismatched components during splicing. The splice tape comprises a plastic-type material coated on one side with a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition. A protective paper covers the adhesive composition. The splice tape and protective paper are divided into sections using a staggered slit arrangement. The staggered slit arrangement aids in proper alignment and adhesion of the splice tape to component carrier reels.
US09181458B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing an optical film-forming pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, which can reduce the problem with visibility without a reduction in productivity, such as a reduction in coating speed. A method for manufacturing an optical film-forming pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, comprising the steps of: (1) applying, to a release film, an aqueous dispersion-type pressure-sensitive adhesive including an aqueous dispersion containing a (meth)acryl-based polymer in the form of an aqueous dispersion; and (2) drying the applied aqueous dispersion-type pressure-sensitive adhesive, wherein the aqueous dispersion-type pressure-sensitive adhesive has a viscosity of 0.01 Pa·s to 0.1 Pa·s at a shear rate of 4,000 (l/s), the optical film-forming pressure-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the release film has a surface roughness (Ra) of 10 nm to 40 nm, and the optical film-forming pressure-sensitive adhesive layer has a haze of 1% or less.
US09181457B2
Dry-to-the-touch compositions containing a polymeric matrix and a anaerobically curable component present within the polymeric matrix are disclosed. In a particularly desirable form, the compositions are moisture curable. The compositions are non-flowable, at high temperatures, and have an improved solvent resistance once cured.
US09181448B2
Latex emulsions are disclosed which can be used in the formation of coating compositions that are not water sensitive, have good blush resistance and retortability. In some embodiments, the coating compositions are used to coat substrates such as cans and packaging materials for the storage of food and beverages. Coating compositions of the invention may be prepared by polymerizing at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer component, a stabilizer comprising a strong acid and an initiator in a carrier to form an emulsion, polymerizing the emulsion with at least one different ethylenically unsaturated monomer component to prepare the composite latex emulsion, and reacting the composite latex emulsion with a neutralizer to form the coating composition. Methods of coating substrates with the coating compositions, and substrates coated with the coating compositions are also disclosed.
US09181446B2
Provided are: an ink composition for ink-jet printing use, which has good re-dispersibility after being dried and does not undergo the change in properties of the ink even when stored for a long period; and an ink-jet printing method and a dyeing method each using the ink composition. The ink composition according to the present invention comprises: a pigment; water; a polymer (D) composed of at least two monomers independently selected from the group consisting of a monomer (A), a monomer (B) and a monomer (C) respectively represented by specific formulae; a styrene-butadiene resin; a water-soluble organic solvent; and a nonionic surfactant.
US09181442B2
Aqueous ink jet ink compositions are used for ink jet printing colorless, colored or invisible images on receiver elements. These compositions contain a dispersion of an unsaturated natural oil and a water compatible polyurethane. The unsaturated oil dispersion is prepared from conventional surfactants or a polyurethane dispersing agent. The polyurethane is prepared from unsaturated polyol segments prepared from the unsaturated natural oils. The ink preparations are printed on media treated with agents such as metal ions known to catalyze crosslinking reactions in unsaturated oils. Such compositions are useful in various ink jet printing systems including drop on demand and continuous ink jet printing systems.
US09181429B2
The invention relates to a polyamide composition with an improved resistance against yellowing. The invention also relates to a shaped article made from the composition and to a method of forming such a shaped article. The polyamide composition comprises: a. 90 to 40 wt % of one or more semi-aromatic polyamides and b.10 to 60 wt % of one or more of aliphatic polyamides and c.1 at least one white pigment as secondary component and c.2 optionally one or more other secondary components, wherein the sum of the amount of semi-aromatic and aliphatic polyamide is 100 wt % and wherein: i. the semi-aromatic polyamide is derived from one or more aliphatic diamine monomers containing 4 to 12 carbon atoms and one or more benzene dicarboxylic acid monomers and ii. the aliphatic polyamide is derived from one or more aliphatic diamine monomers containing 4 to 10 carbon atoms and one or more aliphatic dicarboxylic acids with 6 to 12 carbon atoms with the proviso that no additional thermally conductive material is present in the composition.
US09181428B2
Moisture curable compositions including silylated polymers and methods for producing the same are provided. A two component moisture curable system for producing a cured or cross-linked silylated polymer having improved compression set properties is provided. The two component system comprises a first formulation and a second formulation. The first formulation comprises a silylated polymer, water, and filler and the second formulation comprises the silylated polymer, a curing catalyst comprising at least one Brønsted acid, and a moisture scavenger. The final cured formulation may have a compression set, determined by ASTM D395 or ISO 815-1, of less than 100%, and in some examples less than 50% and in some examples less than 15%. This demonstrated improvement in compression set not only allows the silylated polymers to be used in applications where cyclic loads are applied but also enhances product durability.
US09181422B2
The present disclosure provides a resin suitable for use in rotational molding having an environmental stress crack resistance of greater than 1000 hours. The resin has a density from 0.937 to 0.942 g/cm3, a melt index I2 determined according to ASTM D 1238 (2.16 kg/190° C.−I2) from 4.0 to 7.0 g/10 min, an I21 determined according to ASTM D 1238 (21.6 kg/190° C.−I21) from 160 to 200 g/10 min, an I21/I2 from 30 to 40 and a terminal vinyl unsaturation greater than 0.06, per 1000 carbon atoms; and a primary structure parameter (PSP2) of from 4 to 7, and an overall Mw/Mn from 2.7 to 3.5 comprising from 2 to 5 weight % of one or more C4-8 alpha olefin comonomers.
US09181418B2
Disclosed is a method for treating a surface of a PVC product. A PVC product including PVC and plasticizer is provided. A surface of the PVC product is treated by an aqueous solution of a crosslinking agent and a first phase transfer catalyst to form a first surface treated PVC product. The surface of the first surface treated PVC product is treated by an aqueous solution of an aqueous free radical initiator and a second phase transfer catalyst to form a second surface treated PVC product. As such, the release of the plasticizer from the PVC product to an environment is inhibited.
US09181413B2
The invention provides a rubber composition that can enhance fuel economy, wet-grip performance, abrasion resistance, and handling stability in a balanced manner, and a pneumatic tire using this composition. The invention relates to a rubber composition containing a rubber component, silica (1) having a nitrogen adsorption specific surface area of not more than 100 m2/g, and silica (2) having a nitrogen adsorption specific surface area of at least 180 m2/g, wherein the rubber component contains, based on 100% by mass of the rubber component, at least 5% by mass of a conjugated diene polymer containing a constituent unit based on a conjugated diene and a constituent unit represented by formula (I) below, at least one terminal of the polymer being modified with a specific compound; and a total amount of silica (1) and silica (2) is 30-150 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the rubber component,
US09181409B2
A method of producing an improved polyethylene, especially an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene utilizes a sequential irradiation and annealing process to form a highly cross-linked polyethylene material. The use of sequential irradiation followed by sequential annealing after each irradiation allows each dose of irradiation in the series of doses to be relatively low while achieving a total dose which is sufficiently high to cross-link the material. The process may either be applied to a preformed material such as a rod or bar or sheet made from polyethylene resin or may be applied to a finished polyethylene part.
US09181398B2
The present invention relates to a drainage aid composition and its use in pulp washing process. More particulary, this invention relates to drainage aid composition of silicone polyethers prepared via zinc catalized dehydrogenative coupling of alcohol terminated polyethers with silicone oligomers and polymers comprising of at least one silicon bonded hydrogen. The compostion of this invention exhibit excellent drainage properties.
US09181392B2
Embodiments of the invention provide for methods of producing a polycarbonate polyol. The method includes charging a vessel with butanediol, charging the vessel with a polymerization catalyst, and adding to the vessel dimethyl carbonate at a rate of at least 2.0 g of DMC per minute per kg of BDO to produce polycarbonate polyol at a polycarbonate polyol yield of at least 80% of a theoretical yield.
US09181390B2
Different interfacial processes for producing photoactive additives are disclosed. Generally, the photoactive additives are cross-linkable polycarbonate resins formed from a dihydroxybenzophenone, a first linker moiety, a diol chain extender, and an end-capping agent. The resulting additives can be crosslinked with other polymers upon exposure to UV radiation.
US09181368B2
Group 4 metal complexes comprising a polyvalent, heteroaryl donor ligand and their use as components of olefin polymerization catalysts, especially suited for preparing propylene copolymer products having high isotacticity and low molecular weight, are disclosed.
US09181366B2
The present invention relates to the field of ethylene polymerisation with a supported late transition metal catalyst system.
US09181358B2
A process for the preparation of a polymer nanoparticle by a photoinduced emulsion polymerization includes preparing an emulsion comprising at least one surfactant, a dispersed phase and a continuous phase. The dispersed phase comprises at least one polymerizable monomer and the continuous phase comprises water and at least one photoinitiator. The at least one polymerizable monomer is polymerized by exposing the emulsion to an electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength so as to induce a generation of radicals from the at least one photoinitiator. The at least one photoinitiator is selected from at least one compound of formula (I)
US09181356B2
A hydrogenation catalyst composition for hydrogenating a polymer of conjugated diene is provided. The polymer of conjugated diene is a homopolymer of conjugated diene or a copolymer of conjugated diene and vinyl aromatics. The hydrogenation catalyst composition includes: (a) a titanium compound, (b) a compound of formula (II), where R5 is C1˜C12 alkyl, alkenyl, amine, ether, ketone or ester groups, R3 and R6 are C1˜C12 alkyl or alkenyl groups, R4 and R7 are C1˜C12 alkyl, alkenyl, amine, ether, ketone or ester groups, n and m are integrals, 1≦n≦3, 1≦m≦3, and (c) alkyl aluminum.
US09181353B2
A method for manufacturing a modified hydroxyethyl starch carrying a heptonic acid residue on at least one of its termini is disclosed. Within this method, the following steps are carried out: a) dissolving hydroxyethyl starch in water, b) adjusting the pH value to a value of 8.0 to 10.0, c) adding a cyanide compound to the hydroxyethyl starch solution, heating the solution to a temperature of 80 to 99° C. and keeping it at this temperature for a first time period, and d) adjusting the pH value to a value of 2.0 to 4.0, bringing the solution to a temperature of 50 to 90° C. and keeping it at this temperature for a second time period.
US09181350B2
The present invention relates to amino acid sequences that are directed against/and or that can specifically bind Interleukin-6 Receptor (IL-6R) with improved affinity and/or avidity, and/or that have an improved efficacy and/or potency, and which are capable of (partially, or preferably totally) blocking the IL-6/IL-6R interaction and/or inhibit signalization through IL-6, IL-6R and/or the IL-6/IL-6R complex. The invention further relates to compounds or constructs, and in particular proteins and polypeptides, that comprise or essentially consist of one or more such amino acid sequences.The invention also relates to nucleic acids encoding such amino acid sequences and polypeptides, to methods for preparing such amino acid sequences and polypeptides, to host cells expressing or capable of expressing such amino acid sequences or polypeptides, to compositions, and in particular to pharmaceutical compositions, that comprise such amino acid sequences, polypeptides, nucleic acids and/or host cells, and to uses of such amino acid sequences or polypeptides, nucleic acids, host cells and/or compositions, in particular for prophylactic, therapeutic or diagnostic purposes.
US09181344B2
The invention relates to the treatment of autoimmune diseases and disorders, in particular myasthenia gravis, by administration of effector-function-deficient antibodies, wherein said effector-function-deficient antibodies are capable of competing with one or more of the auto-antibodies involved in mediating the antibody-mediated auto-immune disease or disorder for binding to a target auto-antigen.
US09181338B2
Fully human monoclonal Abs includes (i) an antigen-binding variable region that exhibits very high binding affinity for IL-1α and (ii) a constant region that is effective at both activating the complement system though C1q binding and binding to several different Fc receptors.
US09181337B2
The instant invention relates to modulated lysine variant species compositions comprising a protein, e.g., an antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, and methods, e.g., cell culture and/or protein purification methods, for producing such modulated lysine variant species compositions. Methods for using such compositions to treat a disorder, e.g., a disorder in which TNFα is detrimental, are also provided.
US09181334B2
This invention provides an antibody targeting a cancer antigenic protein specifically expressed on the surface of cancer cells and use thereof as a therapeutic and/or preventive agent for cancer. More specifically, the present invention provides an antibody, or a fragment thereof which has immunological reactivity with a CAPRIN-1 protein, the antibody comprising a heavy chain variable region comprising complementarity determining regions of SEQ ID NOs: 5, 6, and 7 and a light chain variable region comprising complementarity determining regions of SEQ ID NOs: 9, 10, and 11, and a pharmaceutical composition for treatment and/or prevention of cancer, comprising the same as an active ingredient.
US09181311B2
There is provided a fusion protein or a polynucleotide sequence encoding said fusion protein that comprises first and second domains, wherein the first domain of the fusion protein comprises an amino acid sequence having at least 70% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, or a fragment thereof comprising at least 20 consecutive amino acids thereof; and wherein the second domain of the fusion protein comprises a mycobacterial antigen or an antigenic fragment thereof. Also provided are corresponding therapeutic uses thereof for the protection of primates against mycobacterial infections.
US09181300B2
Polypeptides are disclosed herein, which recognize and are strong binders to Influenza A hemagglutinin and can be used, for example, to treat and/or limit development of an influenza infection.
US09181290B2
Disclosed herein are an anti-biofilm composition and a method to inhibit or prevent cell adhesion and/or biofilm formation by a microorganism, in which use of 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-D-glucopyranose (PGG) is involved therein.
US09181286B2
The present disclosure relates to pantothenate derivatives for the treatment of neurologic disorders (such as pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration), pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, and their use in treatment of neurologic disorders.
US09181283B2
A series of silicon compounds are provided, which are excellent precursors to small carbosilanes, such as 1,3,5-trisilapentane, 2,4,6-trisilaheptane, tris(silylmethyl)silane and tetrakis(silylmethyl)silane. A method of preparing a carbosilane involves forming a Grignard, lithium, or metallic reagent from a halomethyltrialkoxysilane, reacting the Grignard, lithium, or metallic reagent with a dihalodihydridosilane, a trihalohydridosilane, a tetrahalosilane, a dialkoxydihydridosilane, a trialkoxyhydridosilane, or a tetraalkoxysilane to yield a carbosilane precursor, and reducing the precursor to form the carbosilane.
US09181282B2
The present invention relates to novel silica materials, precursors thereof and the preparation thereof. The compounds may be used for a variety of applications, including chromatography and catalysis.
US09181271B2
The present invention provides tricyclic fused thiophene derivatives, as well as their compositions and methods of use, that modulate the activity of Janus kinase (JAK) and are useful in the treatment of diseases related to the activity of JAK including, for example, inflammatory disorders, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and other diseases.
US09181262B2
Novel crystalline forms of (2R,3S,5R)-2-(2,5-Difluorophenyl)-5-[2-(methylsulfonyl)-2,6-dihydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrazol-5(4H)-yl]tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-amine are potent inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV and are useful for the treatment of non-insulin dependent (Type 2) diabetes mellitus. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these novel forms, processes to prepare these forms and their pharmaceutical compositions as well as uses thereof for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.
US09181258B2
The present invention relates to 4-alkyl substituted 3,4-dihydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazin-1(2H)-one derivatives, of formula (I) which modulate the activity of protein kinases and are therefore useful in treating diseases caused by dysregulated protein kinase activity. The present invention also provides methods for preparing these compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, and methods of treating diseases utilizing such these compounds or the pharmaceutical compositions containing them.
US09181257B2
Disclosed herein are pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidines that form covalent bonds with Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk). Also described are irreversible inhibitors of Btk. Methods for the preparation of the compounds are disclosed. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions that include the compounds. Methods of using the Btk inhibitors are disclosed, alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents, for the treatment of autoimmune diseases or conditions, heteroimmune diseases or conditions, cancer, including lymphoma, and inflammatory diseases or conditions.
US09181252B2
The invention provides a compound of Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein G is R1, R2 and R3 are as described herein; pharmaceutical compositions thereof; and the use thereof in treating diseases, conditions or disorders modulated by the inhibition of an acetyl-CoA carboxylase enzyme(s) in an animal.
US09181250B2
A diazabicyclooctane compound, which is a beta-lactame inhibitor, represented by the following formula (I): wherein A represents Ra(Rb)N— or RcO—; B represents NH or NC1-6 alkyl; C represents benzyl, H or SO3M, wherein M represents H, an inorganic or an organic cation; Ra and Rb represent H, C1-6 alkyl or acyl; Rc represents C1-6 alkyl or a heterocyclyl; A is unsubstituted or substituted with 0 to 4 substituents Fn1, wherein Fn1 represents C1-6 alkyl, O═, or Rg-(CH2)0-3—, wherein Rg represents a heterocyclyl, phenyl, heteroaryl, acyl, RdO2S—, Re(Rf)N—, Re(Rf)NCO—, ReO—, ReOCO— or a protective group, wherein Rd represents C1-6 alkyl or MO—; Re and Rf represent H or C1-6 alkyl, and a heterocycle having at least one nitrogen atom may be formed between Ra and Rb, between Rc and B, or between Re and Rf.
US09181248B2
The present invention relates to novel [1,2,4]triazolopyridine compounds with phosphodiesterase inhibitory activity, as well as to their use as therapeutic agents in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and conditions.
US09181242B2
This invention relates to compounds and compositions that are p38 MAPK inhibitors, useful as anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of, inter alia, diseases of the respiratory tract.
US09181241B2
Compounds are provided that act as potent antagonists of the CCR1 receptor, and have in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The compounds are generally aryl piperazine derivatives and are useful in pharmaceutical compositions, methods for the treatment of CCR1-mediated diseases, and as controls in assays for the identification of competitive CCR1 antagonists.
US09181240B2
This disclosure relates to new tetracyclic compounds that may be used to modulate a histamine receptor in an individual. The compounds in one embodiment are tetracyclic[4,3-b]indoles. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds are also provided, as are methods of using the compounds in a variety of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder.
US09181237B2
The present invention provides substituted berbines, processes for the synthesis of substituted berbine compounds, as well as intermediates used in the synthesis of substituted berbine compounds. Also provided are methods for using the substituted berbines to inhibit cancer cell growth.
US09181226B2
Novel benzamide derivatives of formula (I) wherein W1, W2, R1 to R7, R8, X and Y have the meaning according to the claims, are positive allosteric modulators of the FSH receptor, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of fertility disorders.
US09181220B2
The present invention provides N-substituted-heterocycloalkyloxybenzamide compounds, as well as pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use. One embodiment of the invention is a compound having the structure in which R1, R2, R3, R4, T, n, w and x are as described herein. In certain embodiments of the invention, a compound of the present invention activates the AMPK pathway, and can be used to treat metabolism-related disorders and conditions.
US09181214B2
The present invention relates to novel compounds of formula (A) and (B) as modulators of GPR-119, methods of preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and methods of treatment, prevention and/or amelioration of GPR-119 mediated diseases or disorders with them.
US09181203B2
The object of the present invention is to provide a compound which is useful as a production intermediate of pyrazine carboxamide derivative such as 6-fluoro-3-hydroxy-2-pyrazine carboxamide. The present invention provides a pyrazino[2,3-d]isoxazole derivative represented by the formula (I): wherein X represents a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group or a sulfamoyloxy group, and Y represents —C(═O)R or —CN; wherein R represents a hydrogen atom, an alkoxy group an aryloxy group, an alkyl group, an aryl group or an amino group.
US09181179B2
Provided is a method for producing a polythiol compound, comprising: a step for reacting 2-mercaptoethanol with a defined epihalohydrin compound at a temperature of 10° C. to 50° C. to obtain a defined polyalcohol compound; a step for reacting the polyalcohol compound thus obtained with thiourea in the presence of hydrogen chloride to obtain an isothiuronium salt; a step for adding, while maintaining a reaction solution containing the isothiuronium salt thus obtained at a temperature of 15° C. to 60° C., aqueous ammonia to the reaction solution within 80 minutes, thereby hydrolyzing the isothiuronium salt to obtain a defined polythiol compound; and a step for adding hydrochloric acid which is a concentration of 25% to 36% to the solution containing the polythiol compound thus obtained, washing the solution at a temperature of 10° C. to 50° C. to purify the polythiol compound.
US09181162B2
Glucose deprivation is an attractive strategy in cancer research and treatment. Cancer cells upregulate glucose uptake and metabolism for maintaining accelerated growth and proliferation rates. Specifically blocking these processes is likely to provide new insights to the role of glucose transport and metabolism in tumorigenesis, as well as in apoptosis. As solid tumors outgrow the surrounding vasculature, they encounter microenvironments with a limited supply of nutrients leading to a glucose deprived environment in some regions of the tumor. Cancer cells living in the glucose deprived environment undergo changes to prevent glucose deprivation-induced apoptosis. Knowing how cancer cells evade apoptosis induction is also likely to yield valuable information and knowledge of how to overcome the resistance to apoptosis induction in cancer cells. Disclosed herein are novel anticancer compounds that inhibit basal glucose transport, resulting in tumor suppression and new methods for the study of glucose deprivation in animal cancer research.
US09181159B2
This invention describes a method for co-producing isobutene and methyl tert-butyl ether in a catalytic distillation column, wherein contacting with solid acid catalysts the charged tert-butanol mixture undergoes dehydration and etherification. The mixture of isobutene and methyl tert-butyl ether withdrawn from the column top can be further separated, thus high purity isobutene and fuel-additive methyl tert-butyl ether are obtained.
US09181152B2
The specification relates to compounds and process for the preparation of a compound of formula 7, where LG is a leaving group and hal is a halide and is Cl, Br or I. The compound of formula 7 can be useful in the preparation of natural products, such as halichondrin and its derivatives.
US09181151B2
The invention provides an improved process to manufacture 2-chloro-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoropropane (HCFC-244bb) by reacting 2-chloro-3,3,3,-trifluoropropene (HCFO-1233xf) with hydrogen fluoride, in a liquid phase reaction in the presence of hydrogen chloride and a liquid phase fluorination catalyst. The hydrogen chloride is added into the reaction from an external source at a pressure of about 100 psig or more. The HCFC-244bb is an intermediate in the production of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene-1 (HFO-1234yf).
US09181147B2
In a hydrocarbon upgrading process, a hydrocarbon feed is treated in at least one of a steam cracker, catalytic cracker, coker, hydrocracker, and reformer under suitable conditions to produce a first stream comprising olefinic and aromatic hydrocarbons. A second stream composed mainly of C4+ olefinic and aromatic hydrocarbons is recovered from the first stream and is fed together with a methylating agent to a reaction zone containing a catalyst under reaction conditions including a temperature of about 450° C. to about 700° C., such that aromatics components in the second stream undergo dealkylation, transalkylation and/or methylation and aliphatic components undergo cracking and aromatization to produce a third stream having an increased xylene content compared with said second stream and a C3− olefin by-product. The C3− olefin by-product is recovered and para-xylene is removed from at least part of said third stream.
US09181144B2
A renewable biofuel based on a highly efficient batch catalysis methodology for conversion of 1-butene to a new class of potential jet fuel blends. By tuning the catalyst and then using the dimer produced, the carbon use is about 95% or greater. This latter point will be particularly important in the future, where the source of raw materials (i.e., biomass/biofeedstock) is limited.
US09181138B2
The present application relates to systems and methods for processing organic material. The methods may include extraction of biochemical nutrients from organic material, such as food scraps. The method can include comminuting the organic material to form a slurry from components comprising liquid and organic material; combining the slurry with microorganisms, such as a yeast, under aerobic conditions to form a mixture of the slurry and yeast; aerating the mixture; and forming a biomass and a nutrient-rich broth, in which the biochemical nutrients are stabilized and anabolized. The systems may, in some embodiments, be configured to perform the methods of processing organic materials.
US09181131B2
The present invention relates to a redispersible powder composition for use in the preparation of dry mortar formulations, especially of cementitious bound tile adhesives (CBTA). The invention further relates to a dry mortar formulation comprising said redispersible powder composition. Furthermore, the invention is directed to a method of increasing the open time of a dry mortar formulation without deteriorating the mechanical strength of the cured dry mortar formulation.
US09181130B2
Redispersible polymer powder compositions which include a polyglycol in admixture with a redispersible polymer powder (RDP), which powder includes a codried mixture of a carboxylated, water insoluble film-forming styrene butadiene polymer and a colloidal stabilizer, results in cement compositions having unexpectedly superior overall bonding strength and adhesion after water immersion. Use of the polyglycol provides good workability or ease of troweling during application. In addition, the RDP composition, which includes the RDP and the polyglycol, provides the cement-based composition with excellent abrasion resistance, surface appearance, and color. Also, the RDP composition provides for at least a 30% reduction, for example a 50% or more reduction in the amount of retarder or retardant employed in the dry mix formulation for cement compositions, such as self leveling flooring compounds or compositions, and cement-based tile adhesives.
US09181128B2
The invention relates to a method for grinding an inorganic solid from the series cement clinker, pozzolan and/or raw material for cement production, where a grinding additive is added before or during grinding, and the grinding additive, based on the dry mass, comprises 6% to 80% by weight of caprolactam and 1.5% to 30% by weight of aminocaproic acid, where, based in each case on the dry mass, 0.002% to 2% by weight of the grinding additive is used, based on the total solid. Further claimed are a grinding additive and the use thereof for increasing the compressive strength of the cured product produced therewith.
US09181120B2
Low strength wastewater such as municipal sewage is treated using an anaerobic digester. In some examples, a wastewater stream is separated into a solids rich portion and a solids lean portion. The solids lean portion is treated, for example to remove nitrogen. The solids rich portion is treated in an anaerobic digester, preferably with influent or recuperative thickening. In another example, the wastewater stream is fed to an anaerobic digester and solid-liquid separation stages downstream of the digester return active bacteria and undigested organics to the digester. Both cases may use a process train comprising treatment in an anoxic tank followed by a nitritation tank with a portion of the effluent from the nitritation tank recirculated to the anoxic tank to provide nitritation and denitritation.
US09181113B2
A method and system for injecting a pulsed radio frequency signal into a fluid-containing system in order to create and propagate an electromagnetic field throughout the fluid-containing system. The electromagnetic field may be used to prevent the formation and build-up of scale in the fluid-containing system and/or to prevent the proliferation of bacteria within the fluid-containing system. The method and system may also be used to inject a pulsed radio frequency signal at a number of points in a fluid-containing system, or to inject a pulsed radio frequency signal to a number of independent fluid-containing systems.
US09181102B2
A Floating Salt Farm is a system which uses extracted seawater to reliably and regularly produce substantial amounts of crystallized salt and bittern through the evaporation process. The seawater used for the evaporation process of the Floating Salt Farm can be 1) seawater affected by volcanic activities, 2) seawater affected by spring water from thermal springs, and 3) seawater extracted from specific water depths and from specific offshore locations. The crystallized salt and bittern to be produced are affected by placing contents, such as volcanic rocks, inside the evaporator tank with the seawater during the evaporation process.
US09181100B2
The present invention relates to a method of transferring a graphene film comprising the steps of (A) providing a carrier, wherein the carrier has a first surface, and a second surface, and a first graphene film is formed on the first surface; (B) disposing a patterned protection layer on the second surface of the carrier; (C) patternin carrier with the first graphene film on a target substrate; (E) removing the the carrier to expose the first graphene film; (D) disposing the patterned carrier to transfer the first graphene film on the substrate.
US09181097B2
An apparatus for providing a reactant comprises a reactant space and a reservoir space. The reactant space comprises a chemical complex capable of evolving the reactant when heated. The reservoir space, in turn, is in gas communication with the reactant space. The apparatus is operative to heat the chemical complex when a pressure of the reactant in the reservoir space is below a predetermined set-point, and to cool the chemical complex when the pressure of the reactant in the reservoir space is above the predetermined set-point.
US09181095B2
Systems and methods for pre-treatment of acid gas are presented in which ammonium is removed from the acid gas in an absorber that is operated at significantly elevated temperature using dilute phosphoric acid. While seemingly incompatible, absorbing ammonia at high heat in the absorber will allow for production of a diammonium phosphate product that is ultra-low in residual sulfurous compounds and prevent crystallization of phosphate salts due to the increased solubility of the salts in the hot diluted solvent.
US09181090B2
The present invention provides a carbon nanotube dispersion, in which carbon nanotubes are uniformly dispersed and a satisfactory dispersed state is maintained over a long period of time, and also inherent properties of carbon nanotubes can be exhibited. The carbon nanotube dispersion contains an alcohol solvent (preferably a lower alcohol having about 1 to 4 carbon atoms) and a polyvinyl acetal resin.
US09181085B2
Provided is method of preparing a printed matter with a printed array of particles, the method including: (a) preparing a template, a surface of which has depressions or projections capable of fixing the positions and/or orientations of one or more particles; (b) placing the particles on the template and applying a physical pressure to the particles so that a portion or the whole of each particle is inserted in each of pores defined by the depressions or the projections to form a particle array; and (c) contacting the template having thereon the particle array to a printing substrate so that the particle array is transferred to the printing substrate. Provided is also a method of preparing a printed matter with a printed array of particles, the method including: (a) preparing a template, at least a surface portion of which has adhesive property; (b) placing particles on the template and applying a physical pressure to the particles so that the particles are immobilized on adhesive surface portions of the substrate to form a particle array; and (c) contacting the template having thereon the particle array to a printing substrate so that the particle array is transferred to the printing substrate.
US09181078B2
A modular, environmentally friendly mobile fuel distribution station includes a fuel tank, a support structure having a plurality of legs for supporting an operation platform in an elevated position a predetermined distance above ground, an alternative power generation device, the alternative power generation device being one of a solar power generator and a wind power generator for providing primary power to the mobile fuel distribution station and a central platform operatively connected to at least two of the legs, the at least two of the legs bearing the weight of the central platform, wherein the fuel tank and the alternative power generation device are disposed on the operation platform.
US09181067B1
A stability device for a payload suspended from a payload sling includes a first wind deflecting member having a leading edge portion and a trailing edge portion; a second wind deflecting member having a leading edge portion and a trailing edge portion; the first wind deflecting member and the second wind deflecting member forming a substantially V-shaped structure; a tip portion of the V-shaped structure comprising the leading edge portion of the first wind deflecting member and the leading edge portion of the second wind deflecting member; an open portion of the V-shaped structured comprising the trailing edge of the first wind deflecting member and the trailing edge of the second wind deflecting member; and a securing mechanism removably coupling the payload stability device to the payload.
US09181065B2
An elevator car for an elevator system includes a car door, a car door mechanism, at least one car door panel, a door drive motor, and a drive control device for the door drive motor. The car door mechanism thereby supports the car door panel. The drive control device includes an operator module having an operator panel, wherein the operator module is disposed on the elevator car so that the operator panel can be operated from the roof of the elevator car and through an opened shaft door from a building floor.
US09181064B2
A method for feeding a yarn or thread to a processing machine, such as a textile machine, the method includes unwinding the yarn from a bobbin, bringing it into cooperation with a rotary member and then directing it to a sensor member arranged to verify its feed tension to the processing machine, with monitoring of the yarn feed velocity. The measured tension and measured velocity data being fed to a control unit which controls the yarn feed to the machine. The tension is continuously controlled by the unit to maintain it constant then, if this tension condition is verified, the velocity is controlled to render it constant, while at the same time the tension value is continuously monitored to verify whether it remains constant. This constant tension and constant velocity control of the yarn feed to the processing machine being implemented without synchronization with the machine.
US09181057B2
A stepping motor control device includes a driving IC driving a stepping motor by PWM control, and a setting circuit for setting PWM frequency of the driving IC. The setting circuit sets the driving IC such that in stepping motor accelerating and decelerating periods, the PWM frequency of the driving IC becomes higher than the PWM frequency of the driving IC in a constant-speed period of the stepping motor. Thus, power loss of the driving IC in the stepping motor accelerating and decelerating periods can be reduced, and ripple current can be reduced.
US09181048B1
A mobile transport and storage system, comprising at least a storage container and a hand-controlled lifting wheel assembly is described. The storage container includes a substantially rectangular base and frame constructed with a rear wall, opposing side walls, a front wall, a roof and a floor having an underside, wherein one of the rear wall, front wall or opposing side walls include an opening, and two slides (longsills) defined in, or disposed on, the underside of the floor, wherein the two slides are substantially parallel to each other, and wherein the slides extend lengthwise in a direction extending from the front wall to the rear wall. The lifting wheel assembly includes a handle connected to a rectangular shaped base unit which serves as the body of the assembly. Included on the handle is a switch for activating the raising and lowering mechanism of the assembly unit, and a warning or caution beacon with an activation switch. The base includes an axle and wheel assembly and two parallel-disposed lift fork assemblies. By pressing the raise/lower switch button, a motor and pump are activated which extends lift cylinders to elevate the lift forks. The system further includes a power hand truck with an outrigger assembly and a flatbed trailer.
US09181047B2
An apparatus includes a pallet dispensing system, including a movable frame being configured to movably hold, at least in part, a pallet stack between a pallet-storage position and a pallet-dispensation position. The movable frame is also configured to hold the pallet stack relative to a pallet transporter in such a way that the pallet transporter is permitted to vertically lift, at least in part, the pallet stack as the movable frame is provided, at least in part, with vertical-lift assistance through stored potential energy.
US09181040B2
A method of changing a transporting configuration of a workpiece of an absorbent article includes: for the workpiece having a shape in which a longitudinal central section is narrower in the lateral direction than longitudinal end sections, transporting a plurality of workpieces in longitudinal-direction flowing, the plurality of workpieces being transported in a state where the longitudinal end sections of each workpiece are adjacent to the central section of another workpiece and the plurality of workpieces form N workpiece lines (N is an integer of 2 or more) arranged in a lateral direction; forming each workpiece group including N workpieces by correlating, based on a predetermined correlation pattern; and changing a transporting configuration of the workpieces of the workpiece group from the longitudinal-direction flowing to the lateral-direction flowing. The forming of the workpiece group is performed by correlating workpieces arranged side by side in the lateral direction.
US09181037B1
A conveyor assembly is described and which includes a reciprocally moveable conveyor bed, having a product conveying surface, and a reactive mass electrical transducer, which is oriented in spaced relation relative to the conveyor bed and which, when energized, imparts reciprocal motion to the conveyor bed to move the product along the product conveying surface of the conveyor bed.
US09181031B2
The invention provides a trolley for use in a storage system comprising at least one row of side-by-side storage positions for containers, which trolley is reciprocally movable along a path of movement that extends parallel to the row for transferring a container between the trolley and a storage position located opposite the trolley. The trolley comprises a frame, at least one supporting arm and a device for moving the at least one supporting arm forward and backward, transversely to the path of movement, relative to the frame between a passive position and at least one active position, in which at least one active position, in contrast to the passive position, the at least one supporting arm extends at least partially into a storage position.
US09181030B2
The invention relates to an arrangement for storage, which includes a warehouse rack containing shelves (14) located on columns, a handling machine movable to the designated shelf of the warehouse rack, and a handling device capable of placing goods or a storing device (30) for storing goods on the shelves (14) or taking them down from the shelves (14) and moving them to a designated location. A passive lifting device (240) is associated with the warehouse rack (10) and the handling machine (100) is formed as a locomotive handling machine capable of moving on a designated path, and the handling device (130) is located on the handling machine (100), and on the handling machine (100), there is an active lifting device (200), which can be coupled with the passive lifting device (240) and forward the handling machine (100) to the designated shelf in cooperation with the passive lifting device (240).The invention relates also to a locomotive handling machine (100) provided with an active lifting device (200), and to a warehouse rack (10) mounted with a passive lifting device (240).
US09181021B2
The invention involves a system and method for preserving and dispensing liquids from a corked bottle. The system includes a manifold connected to a supply of pressurized gas. Fluidly connected to the manifold is a tube assembly, which extends through the cork of a bottle for the introduction of pressurized gas to the inner portion of the bottle. A second tube within the tube assembly is provided for the transfer of liquid out of the bottle to the manifold for dispensing through the dispensing valve. A floating tip assembly is provided on the distal end of the outer tube member for covering the gas and liquid openings during insertion of the tube assembly into the bottle. The floating tip assembly moves either automatically or manually after insertion of the tube assembly to allow gas and fluid to flow through the assembly.
US09181020B2
A system for dispensing texture material comprises a container, an outlet assembly, and an aerosol valve assembly. The container stores texture material and propellant material. The aerosol valve assembly is arranged to allow control of fluid flowing out of the container. The outlet assembly is configured such that the cross-sectional area of the outlet opening corresponds to the desired pattern. The aerosol valve assembly is operated to allow the propellant material to force the texture material out of the container through the outlet opening defined by the outlet assembly. The texture material forced out of the container is deposited on the target surface in the desired pattern.
US09181011B2
Described are dough packages and packaged dough products, wherein the package includes microvents.
US09181005B2
Caps and container systems suited to dispensing products like cosmetics. Some of the caps include three portions that can be coupled together and that include a dispensing system that has an open position and a closed position.
US09180999B2
The invention features a series of bags having perforations on the front and back panels that connect the back portion of one bag with the front portion of a second bag. The bags are aligned and features holes that are adapted to be received by a stand to support the bags. The bags are packaged and ready to load in a ready to use position. When the bags are separated from each other, the next bag in the continuous series will align and expand to open into a use position. The bags can be stacked on top of each other in a ready to use position.
US09180998B2
Insulated pallet shipper and methods of making and using the same. The insulated pallet shipper includes an insulated container shaped to include a bottom wall, a top wall, a left side wall, a right side wall, a rear wall and a front wall, the walls collectively defining a cavity; a plurality of coolant members positioned in the cavity, each of the coolant members including a plurality of coolant bricks encased within a cardboard container, at least some of the coolant members being preconditioned at a refrigerating temperature and at least some of the coolant members being preconditioned at a freezing temperature; an inner pallet seated on the bottom wall; and an outer pallet upon which the container is seated.
US09180987B2
The disclosure relates to a thermoform packaging machine for stretching a film web as well as to a method of operating a thermoform packaging machine, in the case of which a stretching station with a heating unit is provided, and the film web is actively cooled by means of a film cooling device after stretching of the film web.
US09180979B2
An aircraft article composite forming tool and a method for producing the tool. The aircraft article to be formed includes a composite material including an outer surface. The aircraft article composite forming tool includes a matrix laminate made of at least an upper ply including a forming surface for forming the aircraft article and outer surface. The upper ply includes a nano filament structure embedded therein.
US09180974B2
The invention relates to multimode aircraft operated at supersonic and subsonic flight speeds in a wide range of flight altitudes. The invention is particularly applicable in multimode super-maneuverable aircraft capable of cruising at supersonic speed and having low radar signature. The technical effect to be achieved by the invention is to provide an aircraft which has low radar signature, is super-maneuverable at high angles of attack, has high aerodynamic efficiency at supersonic speeds while keeping high aerodynamic efficiency at subsonic modes, and can accommodate bulky cargo in its internal compartments. The integral aerodynamic configuration aircraft comprises fuselage (1) with strake (2), wing with panels (3) smoothly blended into fuselage (1), all-moving horizontal tail (AMHT) (4), and all-moving vertical tail (AMVT) (5). Mid-fuselage is flattened and formed longitudinally by a set of aerodynamic profiles. Engines are arranged in engine nacelles (6) spaced apart from each other horizontally, and centerlines of engines are oriented at an acute angle to the plane of symmetry of the aircraft in the direction of flight. Strake (2) comprises controlled pivoting portions (8).
US09180969B2
An aircraft seat assembly for aircraft passengers having restricted mobility comprises a seat base assembly that comprises a first carrier device and a first fastening means. The aircraft seat assembly further comprises a wheelchair sub-frame, a second carrier device and a second fastening means. The dimensions of the wheelchair sub-frame are adapted to the dimensions of aisles provided in the aircraft cabin. Finally, the aircraft seat assembly comprises a seat which comprises a fastening means that is complementary to the first fastening means of the seat base assembly and to the second fastening means of the wheelchair sub-frame.
US09180968B2
A standardized/modularized partition wall with a basic sandwich structure for purposes of separating a cabin area of an aeroplane. The partition wall has a multiplicity of defined zones for the flexible positioning of holding fixtures for the connection of accessories such as flat screens, baby carriers, newspaper racks, and similar, and which is dimensioned for a maximum population with accessories.
US09180967B2
In one embodiment there is provided a radar signature and induced aerodynamic drag minimizing, externally mountable, internally configurable pod structure optimized for internal placement of one or more deployable stores through configuration and optimal kinematic operation of a pod door assembly. The pod structure has an externally mountable pod housing, a predetermined pod housing cross-sectional configuration optimized to provide a configurable interior volume accommodating multiple different store configurations, and a predetermined pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and an induced aerodynamic drag. The pod structure further has a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and having a plurality of pod doors and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies. The pod structure is optimized in kinematic operational combination of the pod doors and seal door mechanism assemblies controlling ejection launch envelopes.
US09180963B2
The invention relates to a device for driving rotation of an aircraft wheel comprising a rim (4) mounted to rotate on an axle (2) of landing gear about an axis of rotation (X), the device comprising a drive ring gear (103) and a drive actuator (101) having an outlet pinion (102) that co-operates with the drive ring gear to drive the wheel in rotation. The drive ring gear is mounted to rotate about the axis of the rim of the wheel, the drive device including selective coupling means (150) that are operable to link the rim and the drive ring gears together in rotation, or to disconnect them.
US09180962B2
A system for varying a wing camber of an aircraft wing may include a leading edge device coupled to the wing. The leading edge device may be configured to be actuated in an upward direction and a downward direction relative to a retracted position of the leading edge device.
US09180960B2
This disclosure is directed to a boron reinforced composite structural member. The concepts and technologies illustrated in this disclosure are taught within the context of a boron reinforced aircraft keel. A boron reinforced composite structural member may be constructed of a structural member core and a surrounding structural member casing. In one embodiment, the structural member core includes alternating layers of boron fiber reinforced plies and layers of interior carbon fiber reinforced plies. The boron fiber reinforced plies are oriented in a longitudinal direction, and the interior carbon fiber reinforced plies are oriented diagonally, perpendicular, and parallel to the boron fiber reinforced plies. The structural member casing includes layers of exterior carbon fiber reinforced plies that substantially surround the structural member core.
US09180950B1
A cowling for housing an outboard engine. The cowling includes a plurality of walls defining at least in part an engine compartment. An engine compartment inlet, in fluid communication with the engine compartment, is defined at least in part by at least one of the plurality of walls. A hydrophobic mesh member disposed across the inlet is adapted to prevent at least a portion of a water content of an airflow flowing to the engine compartment via the engine compartment inlet from entering the engine compartment. An outboard engine having the cowling is also disclosed.
US09180943B2
A towing apparatus comprises a structural assembly extending between opposing first and second bases for pivoting between operating and stored positions. A locking assembly includes a pin in each base and a hook carried at opposing ends of the structural assembly. A cam is pivotally connected to the hook for movement between locked and released positions. In the locked position, the hook is secured to the pin for preventing rotation of the structural assembly. In the released position, the hook is spaced from the pin to permit rotation of the structural assembly. The hook is rotatable with the cam from the released position to adjacent the pin by rotation of a shaft and slidable along the pin into the locking position by a continued shaft rotation. A cable is attached between the base and a spring within the structural assembly for biasing the structural assembly toward the operating position.
US09180931B2
A paddle wheel yacht includes a ship body and a ship power device that is arranged on the ship body and consists of a propeller driven by a main engine. The propeller consists of two paddle wheels. The lower edges of the paddle wheels are lower than the bottom surface of the ship body and are symmetrically arranged on the two sides of the ship body. Paddles are uniformly distributed on the outer edges of the paddle wheels in the radial direction and continuously flap the water surface down-backward at high speed when the paddle wheels rotate at high speed. Only the tail part of the ship body contacts with the water surface and the ship body slides on the water surface, so as to avoid large water resistance and obviously improve the propulsion efficiency to realize the high speed and economical navigation of the ship.
US09180924B1
An electric motorcycles having crash bars is provided, the motorcycle comprising an electric motorcycle frame supported by a front wheel and a rear wheel, the frame further providing support for a seat to support a rider, a front portion of the frame configured to engage forks that engage the front wheel, the front portion extending from a rocker portion of the frame upward to engage the forks, and opposing crash bars coupled to the frame of the electric motorcycle, the crash bars being coupled to opposing portions of the rocker portion of the frame. A process for modifying an electric motorcycle to include crash bars is provided, the process comprising providing an exposed electric motorcycle frame, the frame being exposed about a rocker portion and the extension between the rocker portion and the forks, coupling a support member across the extension, and coupling a lower portion of the crash bars to the rocker portion and to the support member.
US09180918B2
A cab tilting device includes: a left torsion bar connected with the left bottom of a cab of a vehicle to generate twisting restoring force to tilt the cab toward the front of the vehicle from the left bottom of the cab in a width direction of the cab; and a right torsion bar connected with the right bottom of the cab to generate the twisting restoring force to tilt the cab toward the front of the vehicle from the right bottom of the cab in the width direction of the cab to generate the same twisting tilting force from the left side to the right side of the cab.
US09180917B1
A vehicle panoramic sunroof assembly includes a vehicle frame including a medial pillar that extends vertically from a lower frame portion to a longitudinal member of a roof frame portion. A top portion of the medial pillar includes a supplemental support flange. A panoramic sunroof frame is set within and connected to the longitudinal member of the roof frame portion and connected to the supplemental support flange. The supplemental support flange is mechanically connected to the panoramic sunroof frame.
US09180915B2
A support structure of a front body structure may include a first supporting member having both ends in a length direction thereof, the both ends being fixedly coupled respectively to a rear face of the front body structure in the length direction of the vehicle and any one of both side surfaces of the front side member in the width direction of the vehicle, and configured to support the small overlap crash energy firstly, and a second supporting member having both end portions, one end portion being rotatably coupled to the first supporting member and the other end portion being detachably coupled to the first supporting member such that in case the fixedly coupled portions of the first supporting member are deformed or damaged, the second supporting member is configured to rotate on the one end portion.
US09180908B2
A lane keeping system for a vehicle sets a safe zone in which the driver can drive the vehicle. If the system determines that the driver is at risk of leaving the safe zone, the system takes a corrective action, such as notifying the driver or applying a steering correction to the vehicle. The system adjusts the width of the safe zone depending on the driver's capability to stay within the safe zone. A lane centering system may be capable of autonomously steering the vehicle to remain within a lane. The lane centering system may include a controller that determines a target path for the vehicle depending on certain parameters. The controller may model each of the lane delimiters in a simplified form. This facilitates the determination of one of the target paths (the centerline of the lane). The simplified form may be a 3rd order polynomial equation.
US09180904B2
An apparatus and a method for controlling automatic steering of a vehicle are provided. The apparatus includes a global positioning system (GPS) that is configured to detect a current location of the vehicle. In addition, a controller is configured to detect a curvature of a road that corresponds to the current location of the vehicle, detect a road type based on the curvature, and set a plurality of target points to adjust steering of the vehicle.
US09180903B2
Steering communication device, steered-object communication device and steering communication system
The present invention provides a steering communication system being able to individually obtain a telemetry data from a steered-object communication devices mounted on the steered-object. An arbitrary identification number assigned to a plurality of steered-object communication devices mounted on a steered-object at the time of pairing-setup is associated with the equipment ID of a pairing object. When performing transmission request of a telemetry data, a steering signal adding the transmission request information and the own identification number is transmitted. The steered-object communication device judges signal classification of the inputted control signal. When the steering signal adding transmission request information and the own identification number is inputted, the steered-object communication device transmits a telemetry data signal adding the telemetry data as an answer signal to a steering communication device.
US09180900B2
The invention is a snowmobile ski that is adapted to accommodate wheel units that are movable between a deployed position and a stowed position. The floor of the ski has one or more wheel openings, which allow wheels to drop down to the deployed position. A wheel unit may have a single wheel or two wheels in tandem. The wheel units may be mounted on the kingpin, the side wall, inner ribs, or on the steering spindle. A snow guard is provided on the ski body, to prevent snow or ice from hindering operation of the wheel unit.
US09180895B2
A bearing for bearing a torsion bar spring of a roll stabilization system of a track vehicle comprises a split bearing bush for the torsion bar spring and a split bearing shell which comprises said bearing bush and which can be connected to the body/bogie. A pair of seals is mounted at one end of the bearing and consists of an inner, flexible inner seal sitting on the torsion bar spring and an outer, flexible outer seal sitting in the bearing shell. Every seal of the pair of seals comprises at least one peripheral sealing lip and the seals interact with each other via the sealing lips in a sealing manner.
US09180894B2
Provided is a floor structure of a railcar in which thickness of a heat insulating material can be reduced while having predetermined heat resistance. The floor structure of the railcar includes a underframe having a pair of side sills extending in a railcar longitudinal direction and a cross beam arranged between the side sills and extending in a railcar width direction, a structural floor provided on an upper surface of the underframe, and a first heat insulating material arranged on a lower side of the structural floor via an air layer for the structural floor.
US09180884B2
In a working vehicle, it is possible to achieve a downsizing of an engine by securing an output torque in a low rotating region of the engine without using any supercharger. In the working vehicle having the engine mounted to a travel machine body, a common rail type fuel injection device which injects fuel to the engine, and a continuously variable transmission which shifts power from the engine, a rotating speed N of the engine is limited to two kinds, N#1 and N#2. Further, a change gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission is changed and regulated in such a manner as not to change a vehicle speed of the travel machine body before and after changing the rotation speed N whichever of the two kinds N#1 and N#2 the rotating speed N of the engine is changed to.
US09180878B2
A hybrid vehicle control device basically includes an engine, a motor/generator, a first clutch, a second clutch and an engine start control section. The first clutch is disposed between the engine and the motor/generator. The second clutch is disposed between the motor/generator and a drive wheel. The engine start control section has a second clutch slip transition control section that is configured to control a transition of the second clutch to slip engagement when an engine start control is begun based on a mode transition request resulting from an accelerator depression operation, by increasing the torque transmission capacity of the second clutch according to a prescribed slope after dropping the torque transmission capacity of the second clutch to a value smaller than a target drive force.
US09180873B2
It is provided a control device of a hybrid vehicle having an engine, an electric motor, a clutch disposed in a power transmission path between the engine and the electric motor, and a hydraulic power transmission device with a lockup clutch disposed in a power transmission path between the electric motor and drive wheels, the control device being configured to engage the clutch and provide slip control of the lockup clutch when the engine is started from motor running using the electric motor, and to lower an engagement pressure of the lockup clutch as compared to the case of an engine start caused by an acceleration request from a driver if the start of the engine is an engine start caused by a request from a hybrid system.
US09180872B2
A power transmitting apparatus for a vehicle includes: an electric supplementary drive unit; a torque converting device including a planetary gear set having a first rotation element connected to the electric supplementary drive unit, a second rotation element connected to an engine, and a third rotation element operated as an output element; an input device including a first input shaft connected to the third rotation element through one clutch and provided with an input gear thereon, and a second input shaft coaxial with the first input shaft without rotational interference, connected to the second rotation element through the other clutch, and provided with an input gear thereon; a direct coupling device selectively connecting two rotation elements among the first, second, and third rotation elements of the torque converting device so as to cause the torque converting device to become a direct-coupling state; and a speed output device.
US09180867B2
A drive control apparatus of a hybrid vehicle, in which a motor torque instruction value operator of controller calculates a torque instruction value of each of a plurality of motor generators by using a torque balance equation including a target engine torque which is obtained from a target engine operation point and an electric power balance equation including a target charge/discharge power. Thus, control of the plurality of motor generators in the case where there is a charge/discharge to/from a battery can be performed, and both of assurance of a target drive force and assurance of a target charge/discharge can be satisfied in consideration of an operation point of an internal combustion engine (engine operation point).
US09180864B2
A hybrid vehicle includes: a charge state calculator which calculates a charge state of an electricity storer; a standard opening and closing device which turns off a contactor when the charge state calculated by the charge state calculator is lower than a standard lower-limit value; and an engine startup opening and closing device which maintains the contactor in an on state when an engine startup signal is input even when the charge state calculated by the charge state calculator is a value for turning off the contactor, wherein the contactor turning-on operation executed by the engine startup opening and closing device is executed when the charge state calculated by the charge state calculator is higher than an engine startup lower-limit value set lower than the standard lower-limit value by a predetermined value.
US09180856B2
A transportation system is disclosed. The transportation system has a vehicle that is self-powered and configured to generate an air cushion on a trackless lane having a substantially flat surface. The vehicle is configured to move over the substantially flat surface on the air cushion. The transportation system also has a guidance system configured to guide the vehicle between peripheries of the trackless lane.
US09180854B2
A system and method of controlling an air dryer system having first and second air dryers configured to receive compressed air from a compressor, such as a compressor of a vehicle, including operating the first and second air dryers in a first mode corresponding to a high flow mode wherein the first and second air dryers are connected in parallel with the air compressor, monitoring a condition related to a low compressor output state, and operating the first and second air dryers in a second mode corresponding to a continuous flow mode when the low compressor output state is detected.
US09180850B2
An operating system is formed in which an engagement shaft supported on an end portion of a brake piston is inserted through an engagement hole portion of a balance member; an operation wire is connected to the balance member via a coupling pin; and brake operating arms of rear wheel brake mechanisms are operated by a pair of arm portions of the balance member. A broad area is formed in the engagement hole portion in a manner allowing the balance member to swing about the coupling pin when the operation wire is pulled.
US09180847B2
Method for determining a model upstream pressure (PTMC—mod) using a mathematical model in a motor vehicle brake system. An electrically controllable hydraulic valve (7a, 7b) control brake pressure on a wheel brake. Wheel sensors (10a, 10b) provide a vehicle speed signal. From the vehicle speed signal (vref) generating at least a first low pass filtered vehicle speed signal (Vref—fast, Vref—hard, Vref—soft) for using with a first limit frequency (fg1, fg2, fg3), from whose time profile the point in time (t1) of a significant decrease is detected, used for determining a time duration (Timer) starting with deceleration of the vehicle, which ends at the onset of regulation of the braking process. For the classification of the actuation speed of the brake pedal (16) the time duration (Timer) is compared with one or more threshold values (SW1, SW2). Depending on the comparison, determining a model upstream pressure (PTMC—mod) using the mathematical model.
US09180844B2
An EPB control device controlling an electric actuator driving an EPB, wherein the device performs control to reach a lock position, a release position and a standby position between the lock position and the release position. In the lock position, a friction-applying member is thereby pressed against a friction-applied member by the EPB by actuating the electric actuator and a predetermined braking force is generated. In the release position, the friction-applying member is separated from the friction-applied member when the EPB is not actuated. In the standby position, a transition to the lock position is performed in a shorter time than when the EPB is actuated from the release position by the actuation of the electric actuator. The device controls, when a starting operation to start moving a vehicle is performed, the electric actuator such that the standby position is reached.
US09180843B2
Various embodiments may provide a convenient mechanism and system for users of vehicles that include handbrakes to operate reverse lockout deactivation mechanisms in connection with the handbrake. For example, saddle-type vehicles such as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), snowmobile, motorcycle, or the like may benefit from certain embodiments. For example, the system that combines brake, reverse lockout deactivation, and parking brake mechanisms may benefit from a dual rate, dual direction spring system. An apparatus can include a first lever configured to pivot about a first axis. The apparatus can also include a second lever mounted with the first lever and configured further to pivot about a second axis offset from the first axis. The second lever can be configured to be biased to a first position by a first spring and a second spring.
US09180828B2
In a vehicle body front structure, a crash box provided in a front part of a front side member is broken by applying pressure due to a collision load, so that a second load transmission member moves backward toward a first load transmission member. This allows the second load transmission member to abut with the first load transmission member, thereby making it possible to transmit the collision load input into the second load transmission member, to a body portion of the front side member via the first load transmission member. Besides, since the second load transmission member is not provided in a bumper reinforcement, it is possible to replace the bumper reinforcement separately from the second load transmission member.
US09180823B2
Adaptive, self-adjusting decorative trim assemblies are especially adapted for use in aircraft cabin interiors where the fuselage undergoes deformation and/or distortion due to pressurization during flight. The self-adjusting features of the decorative trim assemblies according to the embodiments described herein thus allow for relative movement between mutually intersecting interior cabin panels without jeopardizing the cabin interior aesthetics (e.g., since the relative positioning of the panels is not disrupted by virtue of such fuselage deformations).
US09180816B2
A mirror mount that mounts a mirror to a vehicle fender. The mount can include a base that faces a vehicle fender exterior without extending upwardly and under a hood of the vehicle. A support arm extends from the base and includes a distal end that joins with a mirror. One or more pillars extend away from the base. The pillars can be sized and shaped to extend through holes in the fender to a frame member of the vehicle disposed inwardly relative to the fender. The pillars are associated with a fastener to join with the frame member so that weight of the mirror, the base, the support arm and/or the pillars are substantially born by the frame member. This can reduce transmission of vibration inherent in the fender to the mirror, and/or can rigidly and structurally connect the mirror to the frame member, rather than the fender.
US09180811B2
A vehicle room lighting device having a lamp housing 2 and a lamp lens 3. An elastic piece 12 having a predetermined elasticity in a direction of a rotary shaft O-O of the lamp lens 3 is provided at the lamp lens 3. A shaft portion 15 is provided at the elastic piece 12. A shaft hole 23 is provided at the lamp housing 2. The shaft portion 15 is inserted into the shaft hole 23 so as to be rotatable around the rotary shaft O-O of the lamp lens 3. The vehicle room lighting device is capable of rotatably mounting the lamp lens 3 on the lamp housing 2 without a backlash.
US09180808B2
A system for controlling the exterior lighting of a motor vehicle has a switch unit having a rotary switch which can be rotated clockwise and counter-clockwise to sequentially activate a plurality of operating modes of the vehicle lights. The rotary switch is a continuously adjustable rotary encoder, and a plurality of indicator lights are arranged around the rotary encoder, each of the operating modes is respectively assigned a mode indicator light. The operating mode selected by the rotary encoder is displayed by the corresponding indicator light. The rotary encoder has a plurality of latched positions that correspond to the plurality of indicator lights.
US09180804B2
Slits (36) are formed on a wall part (28) of a clip (16), and a locking piece (34) is made elastically deformable. Only the locking piece (34) is elastically deformed outward when a suspender (22) is locked in the locking piece (34). The locking piece (34) is restored when an upper face (22A) of the suspender (22) passes a top part of a locking claw (38) of the locking piece (34). The suspender (22) is thus prevented from coming out, and the suspender (22) is locked in the clip (16).
US09180803B2
A rear seat assembly within an automotive vehicle is provided. The seat assembly including a seat bottom portion and a seat back portion where the seat back portion includes a fold down arm rest movable from a closed position to an open position. The fold down arm rest is pivotable about a first pivot point. A generally vertical wall separates a cab portion of the vehicle from a trunk portion of the vehicle. The wall is connected to the seat back portion and is generally parallel with the seat back portion. A passageway or pass through portion connects the cab portion of the vehicle with the trunk portion of the vehicle. A power supply portion is mounted to the generally vertical wall and is mounted adjacent to or within the passageway. The power supply portion is accessible when the fold down arm rest is in the open position.
US09180802B2
The present invention relates to a retractable striker (1) and a vehicle seat for a vehicle with a retractable striker (1), wherein the retractable striker (1) is arranged on a seat structure (8), wherein the retractable striker (1) is at least partly retractable into the seat structure (8).
US09180801B2
A vehicle configuration wherein the center of mass of the vehicle is approximately superimposed upon the passenger and driver centers of mass when seated within the vehicle. An occupant's center of mass can be approximated using a standard center of mass position approximation, or a combination of any number of standard center of mass position approximations. The vehicle's center of mass can be approximately superimposed upon the occupant's center of mass in at least the longitudinal and vertical directions.
US09180800B2
An add-on seat assembly is provided for temporary attachment to the rear of a vehicle. Such seat assembly includes a hitch bar, one end of which has, intimately associated therewith, a structure and arrangement for releasable attachment to a trailer hitch which is intimately associated with the rear of a vehicle. The hitch bar includes a securement structure extending across the opposed other end thereof. The seat assembly includes a pair of arms that are demountably and rotatably attached to a respective one opposed end of the securement structure. The seat assembly also includes a pair of seat units, each including a seat bottom that is foldably secured to a seat back, the bottom of the seat bottom including a structure for demountably and rotatably attaching the seat unit to a respective one of the pair of arms.
US09180794B2
There is provided a vehicle seat including: a seat cushion on which an occupant sits, and that supports the buttocks and thighs of the occupant; a rotation portion that is provided at a location on the seat cushion that is contacted by the buttocks of the occupant, and that is capable of rising with respect to a seat face of the seat cushion, then rotating with the seat up-down direction as an axial direction, and descending after rotating.
US09180787B2
In a vehicle having a battery-powered drive assembly, the charging socket for recharging the battery can be closed by a flap connected to the central locking system of the vehicle. When the charging plug is removed from the charging socket, the lock of the flap is temporarily opened by the control device of the central locking system, such that said flap can be moved into the lockable closed position and is then locked automatically.
US09180783B1
A method for managing charge status of an electric vehicle (EV) at a charge unit (CU), charge units, and systems that use cloud processing, are provided. One method includes detecting connection of a charging connector of the charge unit to a vehicle charge port of the EV. The method also includes receiving charge status of the EV while the charging connector is connected to the CU and activating a light at the CU. The light is set to a color that is indicative of the charge status of the EV. The method then includes changing the color of the light as the charge status of the EV changes. The method executed by a processor at a charge unit or on cloud processing logic over the Internet, or combinations thereof.
US09180778B2
A monitor for a vehicle displays multiple language choices upon the operation or activation of one or more devices (usually buttons). When a language choice is made, the monitor displays all subsequent screens in the selected language.
US09180777B2
A fuel cell powered vehicle fuel storage system is disclosed having a suspension system, a fuel tank, and a support system, wherein the suspension system, fuel tank, and support system cooperate to carry vehicle structural loads and the reaction loads of the suspension system and to maximize a volume of the fuel tank.
US09180767B2
A hybrid vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, an exhaust passageway, and a driving system having a first and a second motors and a housing which houses the first and the second motors. The driving system is disposed further rearwards than the internal combustion engine in a front-rear direction of the vehicle. The exhaust passageway extends from the internal combustion engine towards a rear side of the vehicle and is disposed so as to surround: a first plane passing through a front end of the housing and perpendicular to the front-rear direction; a second plane passing through a rear end of the housing and perpendicular to the front-rear direction; a third plane passing through a left end of the housing and perpendicular to a left-right direction; and a fourth plane passing through a right end of the housing and perpendicular to the left-right direction.
US09180763B2
A cover for covering at least partially a vehicle comprises a cover body and at least two clips connected the cover body. Each of the at least two clips includes a first portion connected at least partially to the cover body. The first portion is adapted to bias the cover body toward the vehicle when the cover covers the vehicle. A second portion has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the first portion. The second portion is adapted to selectively connect to a first vehicle portion. A third portion has a first end and a second end. The third portion is adapted to selectively abut against a second vehicle portion. The first end of the third portion is connected to the second end of the second portion. The third portion is at an angle with respect to the first portion.
US09180762B2
A vehicle roof water runoff management system is provided with an improved seal that has a constant seal gap between removable vehicle roof top panels and an adjoining fixed roof. The constant seal gap is maintained in the B-pillar interface area with the vehicle's roofing components. The vehicle roof water runoff management system offers improved manufacture and long term performance reliability over previous designs.
US09180759B2
An impact beam for a motor vehicle body, and more particularly to a side impact beam for a side door of a motor vehicle body is provided. The impact beam has a first profiled section with a three-dimensional structure and a second component which spatially closes the first profiled section. The two components have overlapping surfaces used for welding, and the welding is carried out by way of impulse capacitor discharge welding.
US09180755B2
An adapter device with a PTFE gasket that stops vehicle air conditioning system leaks on most R134a refrigerant non-serviceable air conditioning hoses. The adapter device makes the hose serviceable by replacing the damage non-serviceable service port with a new serviceable service port and valve.
US09180749B2
A twist beam axle for a wheel suspension of a motor vehicle. The twist beam axle has two trailing arms and a torsional profile having prismatic-shaped end sections with a noncircular cross-section. One trailing arm is connected to one torsional profile end section in each case. The trailing arms have a receiving recess having a shape corresponding to that of the outer surface of the torsional profile end section. An inwardly pressed plug is disposed in the interior of each torsional profile end section. The twist beam axle ensures permanent transfers high bending moments and torques between the trailing arms and the torsional profile without a welded joint. Different classes of materials can be used for the torsional profile and trailing arms, or can be connected to one another. The twist beam axle generally makes it possible to use large-volume, thin-walled and, therefore, weight-saving torsional profiles.
US09180744B2
A device for centring the rim of a wheel on the wheel-holder unit of a tire changer machine comprises a first plate which can be positioned above the wheel-holder unit and coupled there for rotating integrally with it and equipped with a through opening which can be aligned with a central hole of the wheel-holder unit for allowing the insertion of a clamping rod in the hole through the opening, for locking the rim on the wheel-holder unit. The device also comprises a second plate forming a supporting surface (E) for the rim and equipped with its own through opening, the second plate being slidably positioned above the first plate and the device also comprises friction reduction means operatively interposed between the first plate and the second plate for facilitating their sliding relative to each other.
US09180729B2
A stretchable knit appliqué is described. The appliqué is configured by a woven textile material adhered to an elastomeric film by a first adhesive continuously distributed over elastomeric film. Moreover, the appliqué is configured to stretch with the elastomeric film. The appliqué can have a first and second woven materials, with a printed design in registration with the first and second textile materials. The printed design can be a sublimation printed design.
US09180727B2
Provided is a decoration sheet with high weather resistance and hair line, and a manufacturing method thereof. The decoration sheet with weather resistance and hair line, which is attached to a surface of an object so as to protect the object from external environment, includes a PVC layer of which a lower surface is attached to the object; a hair line printing layer formed with a lower surface contacted with an upper surface of the PVC and an upper surface on which the hair line is formed, and formed of a mixture of aluminum and acryl; and an acrylic layer formed with a lower surface contacted with an upper surface of the hair line printing layer and an upper surface exposed to the external environment.
US09180725B2
A triangle ruler includes a triangle ruler body defining three corners, three sides, opposing first surface and second surface surrounded by the three sides and three corners and a recessed annular scale located at the center thereof, and a direction indicator including a pendulum and a pointer and pivoting about the center of the recessed annular scale in such a manner that the pivot axis of the direction indicator extends perpendicular to the first and second surfaces of the triangle ruler body, and the effects of the weight of the direction indicator keeps one end of the pointer to constantly indicate a predetermined direction. Thus, the invention combines the functions of a conventional protractor and a conventional triangle ruler to facilitate drawing a variety of different angles of lines.
US09180722B2
A mechanical pencil incrementally rotates a lead by operation of a touch button. The pencil has a barrel in which is disposed a holder. A rotatable pipe having a writing mechanism assembly incorporated therein is attached rotatably to the holder. Around the periphery of the holder, a slide member is disposed to undergo forward and rearward movement, and the slide member is moved forward by pressing the touch button disposed on the barrel. The holder houses a sleeve which is moved forward by the slide member and which turns in a circumferential direction. A rotation-transmitting cam face is provided on each of a front end face of the sleeve and a rear end face of the rotatable pipe. By the forward movement of the sleeve, the cam faces are engaged with each other to incrementally rotate the rotatable pipe, whereby the lead is incrementally rotated.
US09180721B2
A ring mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages includes a housing and ring members for holding loose-leaf pages that are moveable relative to the housing between an open and closed position. An actuation system moves the ring members and includes hinge plates pivotally mounted on the housing and an actuator actuating pivoting movement of the hinge plates. A travel bar of the actuation system is moveable by the actuator between a locked position blocking pivoting movement of the hinge plates and an unlocked position allowing pivoting movement of the hinge plates. The actuation system is adapted to deform while moving the travel bar from the locked position toward the unlocked position to delay the pivoting motion of the hinge plates from the movement of the actuator.
US09180719B2
There is provided a lithographic printing plate substrate comprising (a) a base layer, (b) a layer of a first adhesive covering one side of the base layer except for at least two opposite edges thereof, and (c) an aluminum layer laminated onto the layer of first adhesive and said opposite edges of the base layer, the aluminum layer thereby being sealed with the base layer at said opposite edges of the base layer. There is also provided a method of manufacture thereof as well as a method of processing in view of recycling. Finally, there is provided a lithographic printing plate comprising the above substrate.
US09180717B2
The present invention relates to a vinyl chloride resin latex for a thermal sublimation transfer image-receiving sheet, comprising a vinyl chloride homopolymer and an alkylbenzenesulfonate salt in an amount of more than 1 part by weight to 5 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the vinyl chloride homopolymer; and a thermal sublimation transfer image-receiving sheet using the same.
US09180713B2
When an image formed on an intermediate transfer film is heat-transferred to a recording medium, the film surface is prevented from being deteriorated or distorted due to heat so as to enable high-quality printing. The printing apparatus of the present invention comprises a recording medium supply unit, an image formation unit which forms the image on the transfer film, a transfer unit which transfers the image on the transfer film to the recording medium, a film supply unit which supplies the transfer film, a film winding unit which winds the film, a media transport path which transports the recording medium sent from a medium supply unit to the transfer unit through an information recording unit, a film transport path which transports the transfer film sent from the film supply unit to the transfer unit through the image formation unit, a film delay unit which temporarily delays the transfer film disposed at the film transport path, a driving means which is connected to at least one of the film supply unit and the film winding unit, and a control means which controls the driving means.
US09180712B1
A method is described that entails printing a series of test patterns. Each test pattern has its own respective set of outer lines and set of inner lines. The series of test patterns have a different intended spacing between their respective inner lines and outer lines. The intended spacing of each test pattern is printed in a manner that correlates the intended spacing of each test pattern with its test pattern. Each of the outer lines are printed with a first print source and each of the inner lines printed with a second print source. Inner lines of a first set of the test patterns are shorter than inner lines of a second set of the test patterns to enhance resolution at which differences in the spacings between respective inner and outer lines of same test patterns are able to be detected across different test patterns.
US09180710B2
A printing control apparatus includes a split printing control section configured to split a region that is printable in one band into a plurality of regions according to a predetermined number of splits, and configured to carry out interlace printing in each of split regions on an outward path and a return path. The split printing control section is further configured to determine whether there is data where dots are applied in a region in a vicinity of a boundary of two of the split regions, which includes at least one of the two of the split regions that are adjacent to each other, based on printing data for each of the split regions, and configured to carry out printing by making the number of splits an odd number of times in a case where there is data where dots are applied.
US09180705B1
A method and system for reducing registration errors in a printing system are disclosed. A plurality of tension zones is defined in the printing system. Tension on the web in one tension zone is controlled independently of the tension on the web in the other tension zones. The printing system also includes at least one roller for each tension zone. The rollers receive tension control commands and control the amount of tension on the web in their respective tension zones. The printing system is used to print a first copy of the print job on the web and a plurality of registration errors is determined. Tension control adjustments are computed for each tension zone based on the registration errors. The tension control adjustments are used to adjust the tension control commands to the rollers to print a second copy of the print job, thereby reducing registration errors.
US09180704B2
An image recording apparatus includes: a housing having a sheet conveyance path having curved and extending portions; and a pivotable guide member at least partly defining the curved portion and pivotable. The guide member has a first guide portion and a second guide portion pivotably coupled to it. The first guide portion is pivotable between a first position for partly defining the curved portion and a second position where the curved portion is open. The second guide portion is movable between a third position where the second guide portion partly defines the curved portion with the first guide portion located at the first position and a fourth position where the second guide portion extends in a direction from an inner side to the outer side of the curved portion with the first guide portion located at the second position.
US09180694B2
A recording apparatus includes a recording head that performs recording on a recording medium, a medium support member that is disposed at a position where the medium support member can face the recording head and supports the recording medium, and a reinforcing member that is attached below the medium support member and has a greater rigidity than the medium support member. The medium support member includes a rigidity reduction unit that reduces the rigidity of the medium support member in a direction intersecting a transport direction of the recording medium.
US09180691B2
A platen device can easily change where suction is applied widthwise to a recording medium. A printer has the platen device. A platen device 50 opposite a printhead 41 applies suction to conveyed roll paper P, and has a platen 34 divided perpendicularly to the conveyance direction of the roll paper P into a plurality of individual suction zones 75 with round suction holes 83 in the surface on the side that contacts the roll paper P; and a plurality of shutters 85 disposed to the platen 34 and respectively opening or closing the round suction holes 83 in the plural individual suction zones 75 according to the width of the conveyed recording medium.
US09180684B2
A method is provided for automatically positioning a print head (12) relative to a photoreceptor (14) in a xerographic print engine (10). The method includes: operating the print head (12) to produce an indicia in a latent image formed on the photoreceptor (14); measuring a dimension of the indicia; and automatically positioning the print head (12) relative to the photoreceptor (14) in response to a result of the measuring.
US09180681B2
A print apparatus performing printing on a print medium that includes a lenticular lens and an ink absorption layer that absorbs ink includes a print head that ejects a plurality of types of ink and a control section that controls the driving of the print head. In the print apparatus, in a case in which at least one type of ink among the plurality of types of ink is ink the visibility of which is reduced when the ink is absorbed in the ink absorption layer, the control section controls ink different from the ink the visibility of which is reduced has been ejected before the ink the visibility of which is reduced dries when the ink the visibility of which is reduced is ejected on the side opposite to the mounting side of the lenticular lens in the print medium from the print head.
US09180665B2
A printer includes a carriage which includes a recording head which performs recording on a sheet, and can move in a predetermined direction, and a frame assembly which is configured of a plurality of frames which configure the periphery of the carriage. The frame assembly is formed by including a main frame, side frames, and a sub-frame as a first frame which does not form a contact face which comes into contact with the carriage, and guide frames as a second frame which forms the contact face, and of which hardness is higher than that of the first frame.
US09180663B2
An image processing apparatus includes a recording control unit for recording, by a recording head, a recording position adjustment chart including a pattern for adjusting a recording position of the recording head discharging ink and a mark formed in a position different from that of the pattern, a reading unit for reading the recording position adjustment chart as image data, a first detection unit for detecting a position and inclination of the recording position adjustment chart when reading the recording position adjustment chart based on the mark, a second detection unit for detecting the position of the pattern based on the position and the inclination detected by the first detection unit, and a determination unit for determining adjustment values for the recording position adjustment based on the image data of the recording position adjustment chart in which the position of the pattern has been detected by the second detection unit.
US09180657B2
A method for operating an offset printing press having at least one printing unit with an inking unit, a plate cylinder for receiving a printing plate, a blanket cylinder, an impression cylinder and a dampening unit, and for controlling an application of dampening solution from the dampening unit onto the plate cylinder, includes predampening the printing plate. After a printing pressure has been switched on between the blanket cylinder and the impression cylinder and after a printing material transport through the offset printing press has been switched on, a supply of dampening solution to the plate cylinder in the printing unit is reduced to a pronounced extent at least once for a short predefined time period, as a result of which an excess of dampening solution produced by the predampening does not accumulate permanently in the inking unit. A printing press for carrying out the method is also provided.
US09180653B2
Provided is a method of producing prepreg including: inspecting, with an optical device, in a resin sheet made of a release paper and a resin film which is formed by coating the release paper with a resin to be impregnated into a carbon fiber bundle, the surface of the resin film, detecting a defect in the surface of the resin film which would be the cause of a defect in the prepreg to be produced, and judging the type of the detected defect; or inspecting, with an optical device, the surface of the prepreg after the release paper is separated from the prepreg sheet which is formed by impregnating a resin forming the resin film into the carbon fiber bundle, detecting defects in the surface of the prepreg, and judging the type of the detected defect.
US09180651B1
A heat shrinkable film is constructed and configured for enclosing an object and applying directed heat to substantially conform the film to the external shape of the object for providing a temporary wrapping thereof.
US09180650B2
A cutting insert fastener adapted to secure a cutting insert to a cutting tool holder. The fastener comprises a fastener head portion comprising at least one feature adapted to direct a coolant fluid to an insert cutting edge of a cutting insert when the cutting insert is secured to a cutting tool holder by the cutting insert fastener. Cutting tools comprising internal coolant systems and fastened with a cutting insert fastener comprising a fastener head portion with at least one feature adapted to direct a coolant fluid to an insert cutting edge are also disclosed.
US09180647B2
An interlayer comprised of a high flow, low molecular weight thermoplastic resin, and at least one plasticizer is disclosed. The use of a high flow, low molecular weight thermoplastic resin, and a plasticizer creates synergy allowing the flow of the interlayer to be increased without sacrificing other characteristics typically associated with an increased flow (e.g., increased blocking, decreased mechanical strength, and decreased manufacturing capability). In this regard, the high flow, low molecular weight thermoplastic resin provides a flow improvement, resulting in a high flow interlayer. As a result, a thinner interlayer can be utilized in forming multiple layer panels because the resulting thinner interlayer has improved flow properties.
US09180641B1
An apparatus for compacting a powder includes a feed section (20), a compaction section (21), a discharge section (22), and a conveyor belt (103) extending through the feed, compaction, and discharge sections to convey powder through those sections. The feed section receives an incoming powder onto the conveyor belt. The compaction section compresses the incoming powder on the conveyor belt between two plates (8, 9) to provide a compacted powder. The top plate (8) may be pressed downward toward the bottom plate (9), the bottom plate may be pressed upward toward the top plate, or both. The discharge section receives the compacted powder from the compaction section on the conveyor belt. End plates (16) and side plates (11) confine the incoming powder during compaction.
US09180639B2
A method including the steps of forming an inner ring of a wheel hub, by joining a spindle and an insert ring fitted onto the spindle, on a side of a first end of the spindle; axially blocking the insert ring on the spindle by plastically deforming the first end of the spindle that forms an upset collar therewith, which axially protrudes from the insert ring; frontally obtaining on the collar, on the side opposite to the insert ring, a frontal toothing by means of a single creator tool, towards the collar, with a toothing complementary to that to be obtained, by axially impressing onto the collar, in sequence, one or more teeth of the complementary toothing by eccentrically pushing the creator tool against the collar while the creator tool is held substantially coaxial to the wheel hub, thus acting peripherally in sequence on the whole creator tool.
US09180632B2
An advanced reflexive structure system is disclosed. The reflexive system mimics the pain withdrawal reflex on which the human body relies. The reflexive system incorporates a continuous health and performance monitoring system via an embedded dielectric film, an adaptive composite structure based on shape memory composite material, and an intelligence system which will be interfaced with both the health/performance sensors and the adaptive structure. When activated shape memory polymer will recover its structural integrity via shape recovery and a reptation healing process. These features enable the use of SMP as an adaptive structure in the proposed reflexive system. The development of a reflexive system for structures will enable increased safety and security and demonstrate a better understanding of integrated performance systems. This reflexive technology could find immediate implementation on all current and future systems and future implementation on platforms such as the International Space Station, Lunar, and Martian habitats.
US09180626B2
A method of forming an external rib on a helically wound article is disclosed. The method includes the steps of, in any suitable order, forming bunched strands or tows of continuous fiber, each bunch being held taught in-line with the major axis of the intended rib and successively winding each bunch or tow between successive sequentially helically wound fibers around an article former whereby the bunched strands or tows are each separated by helically wound strands of fiber, to thereby form on completion a wound article having integrally formed external support ribs of generally pyramidal section. A similar method is provided for forming an internal rib in a helically wound article.
US09180624B2
Disclosed is a computer-implemented method of arranging three-dimensional virtual designs configured to be manufactured as physical designs on a production batch, the method including: providing the virtual designs, where each virtual design is based on a three-dimensional representation of an object, and where at least a number of the virtual designs belongs to a group, where the virtual designs in a respective group satisfy at least one common criterion; and arranging the virtual designs relative to the production batch.
US09180616B2
A component part for an injection molding tool comprises a distributor that includes the first distributor plate, with a top side and underside. The component part has at least two material pipes that are aligned crosswise in relation to the underside of the first distributor plate and connected on the underside to the first distributor plate. Each material pipe has a flow channel configured therein, with feed channels configured in the first distributor plate being open on the underside into the flow channels of the material pipes. The feed channels on the top side of the first distributor plate are configured as open and the first distributor plate is monolithically formed together with the material pipes. An injection molding tool can be used with the component part and a method of making the component part is disclosed.
US09180605B2
An improved volumetric concrete mixing system and method of the present invention utilizes load cells for measuring weight loss from the aggregate and cement bins. Load cells may also be used for measuring weight loss from the water tank. The load cells provide input data corresponding to the weight loss of each container to a controller which automatically adjusts the delivery of ingredients to a mixing boot so as to achieve a desired concrete mix ratio.
US09180596B2
A robot cleaner includes a main body, a traveling unit, a cleaning unit, a sensor unit, and a controller. The traveling unit allows the main body to travel. The cleaning unit suctions foreign substances around the main body during the traveling. The sensor unit is rotatable and senses an obstacle using light reflected or scattered by the obstacle. The controller controls the traveling unit so as to travel along a traveling path and controls the cleaning unit so as to perform cleaning. Here, the sensor unit includes a first mode and a second mode that are set to differ from each other in sensitivity with respect to the reflected or scattered light, and the controller changes the sensitivity of the sensor unit according to a traveling mode.
US09180595B2
A wrist portion of a robot includes: a first movable portion configured to rotate relative to an arm portion around a first wrist axis; a second movable portion configured to rotate relative to the first movable portion around a second wrist axis; a third movable portion configured to rotate relative to the second movable portion around a third wrist axis; and a cable insertion portion through which an effector cable is inserted, the effector cable being used to supply electric power to an end effector attached to the third movable portion. The cable insertion portion is provided at the first movable portion so as to be located on the first wrist axis. Two motors among a plurality of motors configured to drive the wrist portion are attached to the first movable portion so as to sandwich the cable insertion portion in a direction perpendicular to the first wrist axis.
US09180594B2
The present invention relates to a tool for a microtechnical gripper. The tool of the invention includes a tip having a support and first and second fingers disposed opposite one another in a chosen position. Each finger is connected to the support by a connecting element so as to be held in a rest position corresponding to the chosen position, the connecting element being flexible in order to allow the fingers to move with at least one degree of freedom relative to the support.
US09180582B2
A cylinder liner installation tool for seating a cylinder liner into an engine block includes a body having a handle mount section at a proximal end and a head bolt mounting section at a distal end, a press rod attached to the body toward the distal end by a hinge mount, a press plate attached to the press rod, and a handle extension removably attached to the handle mount section, wherein the head bolt mounting section is configured to receive a head bolt mounted to the engine block so that application of an applied force to the handle extension results in a translation of the force down the press rod to the press plate. A method of installing a cylinder liner into a cylinder bore in an engine block includes using a cylinder liner installation tool.
US09180562B2
In a wheelset press for pressing or pulling wheels, brake disks or the like on/off axles of rail vehicles, two piston/cylinder units are directed toward one another and stationarily arranged on a common straight line, wherein said piston/cylinder units serve for exerting the required pressing power and, if applicable, for displacing the axle in its longitudinal direction to bring about the pressing-on or pulling-off process. Pressure pistons are provided on the piston/cylinder units to transmit the pressing power onto the facing end of the axle. At least one press abutment for supporting a wheel, a brake disk or the like during the pressing process is designed in such a way that it can be transferred into its support position by means of a relative movement of the axle transverse to its longitudinal direction and otherwise situated outside the press area. The at least one press abutment can be fixed in different positions along the axle. Connecting columns that are rigidly arranged between press beams feature abutments that are axially spaced apart from one another for this purpose. To achieve, among other things, a compact structural shape, the abutments on the connecting columns are realized in the form of slideways for directly accommodating the at least one press abutment, wherein said slideways make it possible to transfer the press abutment from a position outside the press area into a non-tilting support position for the pressing-on or pulling-off process.
US09180556B2
An auxiliary clamping system for welding operation includes a pair of pliers, and a resilient clamp set in between two jaws of the pliers for enabling hooks of the jaws to hook in respective hook holes of flat clamping arms of the inserted resilient clamp such that if the handle levers of the pliers are not squeezed, the jaws are closed and the retaining tips at the free ends of the flat clamping arms of the resilient clamp touch each other; if the handle levers of the pliers are squeezed, the jaws are opened and the retaining tips at the free ends of the flat clamping arms of the resilient clamp are kept apart from each other.
US09180555B2
A system for forming different types of clamshell components including a moveable base, a stationary base, and a squeezer assembly capable of accommodating different types of clamshell components having different lengths, shapes, locations of piercings. The squeezer assembly includes interchangeable squeezer elements. To switch between forming a first type of clamshell component and a second type of clamshell component, one of the two bases is moved relative to the other of the two bases and/or squeezer units for forming the first type of clamshell component are replaced with squeezer units for forming the second type of clamshell component. Reconfiguring the bases and interchanging the squeezers of a clamshell tool, instead of replacing an entire clamshell tool with a different clamshell tool, minimizes lost productivity time, reduces capital costs, and eliminates the problem of storing several different clamshell assembly tools.
US09180546B2
A welding torch for gas tungsten arc welding, the welding torch including a torch head and a torch handle. The torch head includes a hollow inner body in electrical contact with one terminal of an electric power source, the inner body having an interior through which an axially positioned electrode extends, a free end of the electrode projecting beyond an electrode contact region of the inner body, and there being an inner gas chamber defined above the contact region within the interior of the inner body about the electrode. The torch head also includes a collet that provides the contact region where the inner body is in positive electrical contact with the electrode above the electrode free end, a gas shroud extending around but spaced from the electrode free end to define an outer gas chamber that allows, in use, gas to shield the electrode free end, and means for circulating coolant about or above the contact region to extract heat from the contact region. The inner body also includes at least one gas port allowing shielding gas to pass from the inner gas chamber to the outer gas chamber.
US09180537B2
An aluminum alloy extruded tube product for a heat exchanger assembly and made from a 3xxx-series aluminum alloys and including furthermore a purposive addition of one or more wetting elements selected from the group of: Bi 0.03% to 0.5%, Pb 0.03% to 0.5%, Sb 0.03% to 0.5%, Li 0.03% to 0.5%, Se 0.03% to 0.5%, Y 0.03% to 0.05%, Th 0.03% to 0.05%, and the sum of these elements being 0.5% or less.
US09180534B2
The invention relates to double trimming shears having a stationary bottom knife and a driven top knife which can be raised and lowered, wherein the top knife is arranged on a top knife carriage (12) guided by means of a carriage guide (10), wherein a first eccentric shaft (14) and a second eccentric shaft (16) on the carriage guide (10) is provided in order to guide the carriage guide (10) if an inclined position of the top knife carriage is to be prevented. This is achieved in that the first eccentric shaft (14) and the second eccentric shaft (16) are interconnected via a synchronization means (18).
US09180531B2
A drill includes a cutting edge. The cutting edge has a point angle which is continuously decreased from a center-position point angle A (herein, 0°
US09180528B2
A stuck drill bit having a KCS shank can be removed using an article with a body structure. The body structure has an opening that fits onto the shank, and an inward-facing surface around the opening is at least partially complementary to the surface of the shank. The surfaces engage sufficiently that rotary manual force is transferred from the inward-facing surface to the surface of the shank.
US09180523B2
A parting and grooving tool includes a toolholder and a cutting insert. The toolholder has a toolholder body including a main body portion and an elastic clamping arm that define an insert-receiving pocket. The pocket has a top surface formed by the clamping arm and a bottom surface formed by the main body portion for contacting a top and a bottom surface of a cutting insert. The toolholder body includes a second arm, the second arm and the clamping arm defining a slot. A threaded hole extends through the second arm to the slot. The toolholder has a screw having threads that mate with threads in the threaded hole so that the clamping arm is movable into and out of contact with the top surface of the insert. An axis of the threaded hole is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the insert-receiving pocket and intersects the cutting insert.
US09180513B2
Process and casting mold for producing a cast wheel. A core, which remains in the cast wheel and has a circumferential rim, is inserted into a casting mold having at least one lower mold part and an upper mold part moved relative to one another to close casting mold. Core is positioned by at least one positioning element in a predetermined position in casting mold, so that an end region of positioning element is fixed with a force fit or frictional fit in circumferential rim of the core. A free end region of positioning element, which protrudes from circumferential rim of the core, is placed on a contact surface, which is preferably arranged substantially horizontally during operation, of lower mold part during positioning of core in casting mold. Core is positioned in the predetermined position under the action of the force of gravity.
US09180509B2
A hole in a metal and composite stack is cold worked. An interference is formed between a cold working tool and the metal layers results in a radial force that is applied only to the metal layers.
US09180505B2
A water injection controller and method usable in rolling lines using stored cooling water to cool a material. A cooling water usage predictor predicts, for a respective prescribed prediction cycle, usage of cooling water in a prescribed prediction target period. A constrained running condition predictor takes the predicted cooling water usage to predict a required running condition of a pump system in the prediction target period meeting a prescribed constraint condition. An energy consumption calculator takes the predicted running condition of the pump system to calculate an energy quantity to be consumed. An optimizer determines an optimal energy quantity to be consumed among plural energy quantities to be consumed under changed running conditions of the pump system. A pump system running controller controls running of the pump system having as a target value therefor a running condition of the pump system requiring the optimal quantity of energy to be consumed.
US09180501B1
The invention relates to a roll arrangement for use in metallurgical technology, comprising a roll that has a roll barrel (11) and two roll necks (10), and at least one neck bushing (20) for accommodating at least one of the roll necks without a clearance in a rotationally fixed manner. In order to increase the load-bearing capacity of the roll bearing without increasing the size of or the mounting space for the roll arrangement, a circumferential cavity is formed between the neck bushing (20) and the roll neck (10) in the unloaded state of the roll arrangement.
US09180499B2
To minimize harmful effects on operation due to scale adhesion while accommodating increase in the amount of generated chlorine bypass dust and suppress facility cost and running cost including medical agent cost low when incineration ash and dust contained in extracted cement kiln combustion gas are subject to water treatment.[Means for Solving Problems] A water treatment system 1 comprising: a dissolution tank 32 for dissolving a fly ash A in a water W; a dissolution tank 22 for dissolving a dust D contained in combustion gas extracted from a kiln exhaust gas passage running from an inlet end of a cement kiln to a bottom cyclone in a water W; and a vertical filter press 11 for separately filtering a slurry S2 fed from the dissolution tank 32 and a slurry S1 fed from the dissolution tank 22 from each other. It is possible to install water treatment facilities 33-35 for a filtrate L3 of the slurry containing fly ash discharged from the vertical filter press, and water treatment facilities 23-27 for a filtrate L1 of the slurry containing ash discharged from the filtering device.
US09180497B2
The invention relates to a tool for cleaning and/or drying a cavity in a workpiece, such as a hole, in particular a threaded bore. The workpiece has a workpiece adapter. The workpiece adapter includes a workpiece contact surface and has a connector for feeding cleaning medium and/or drying medium. There is an opening in the connection adapter for discharging cleaning medium and/or drying medium containing dirt particles. A nozzle having a nozzle chamber is formed in the workpiece adapter. The connector opens into the nozzle chamber such that a cyclonic flow of the fed cleaning medium and/or drying medium can form in the nozzle and exits the nozzle. The cyclonic flow transports dirt particles from the cavity in the workpiece to the opening for discharging dirt particles and cleaning medium and/or drying medium.
US09180495B2
A display surface cleaning system which includes a display surface cleaning assembly which can be utilized discrete from or coupled proximate a user interactive display surface of a device and methods of using such display surface cleaning assembly.
US09180493B2
An improved shaker screen filter for a well fluid shale shaker includes a main frame arranged for being arranged in the well fluid shale shaker for screening, preferably under vibration, of drilling mud, wherein the mainframe is subdivided into a plurality of smaller cell frames, one or more cell plug filters with one or more layers of screen cloths on top of at least one support cloth or support layer, wherein each of the cell plug filter includes a cell plug filter frame arranged to be held in each of the cell corresponding frames of the main frame, wherein at least one of the cell plug filter frame includes a locking mechanism arranged for locking the cell plug filter frame, upon desire, in a preferred position in the cell frame, correspondingly releasing the cell plug filter frame from the cell frame.
US09180487B2
The invention relates to a method for producing a flexible mineral building material and the building material obtained according to said method.
US09180477B2
A color changer includes a valve module with a first interaction area and a plurality of valves. The valves are connected on their respective inlet side to a respective supply duct and are connected on their respective outlet side to a common collecting duct. The valves are openable and closeable via respective switches by a first actuation end discharging into the first interaction area. The color changer includes a switching module with a second interaction area and one actuator, which discharges by a second actuation end into the second interaction area. The valve and switching modules are arranged with their respective interaction areas adjacent and are displaceable relative to one another. Due to a respective displacement movement, the second actuation end is simultaneously movable with respect to at most one of the first actuation ends into a respective actuation position so that the actuator opens or closes the corresponding valve.
US09180473B2
A fluid dispenser head, such as a pusher, includes an inlet duct, and a dispenser orifice in dispensing communication with the inlet duct. The dispenser head further includes diversion means for selectively interrupting dispensing communication between the inlet duct and the dispenser orifice, and for establishing filling communication with a filling duct formed by the dispenser head and exiting outside the dispenser head.
US09180463B1
A method includes introducing at least one of a whole product or a milled product (e.g., corn) to an airflow (e.g., using a gravity hopper), directing the airflow into one or more accelerators, separating a first fraction of the at least one of the whole product or the milled product from a second fraction of the at least one of the whole product or the milled product in the one or more accelerators. For example, corn germ, starch, and bran components can be separated from one another.
US09180457B2
A metering device for use in syringes and pipetting piston-cylinder arrangements, including a sealing component working together with at least one pretensioning component. The sealing component comprises a sealing segment extending in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction. The sealing segment has a sealing surface facing in a first radial direction for sealing and sliding contact in at least the axial direction, is formed on a working surface formed on the outer surface of the piston rod facing toward the inner wall of the cylinder. The sealing segment also has a pretensioning surface extending in a second radial direction opposite to the first for engaging with the pretensioning component for transferring the radial pretensioning force, where the pretensioning component includes a spring carrier and a plurality of separately formed radial spring segments compliantly supported at least in the radial direction on the spring carrier.
US09180456B2
A microwell plate is described, including a frame 2 that has a frame plate 4 made of a first material having holes 2′, and a vessel 3 formlockingly connected to the frame plate 4 and made from a poly(aliphatic ester)-polycarbonate including soft block ester units, derived from monomers including an alpha, omega C6-20 aliphatic dicarboxylic acid or derivative thereof, a dihydroxyaromatic compound, and a carbonate source.
US09180454B2
Electrowetting and electrofluidic devices and methods. The device includes a hydrophobic channel formed between first and second substrates and a polar fluid and a non-polar fluid contained in the channel. An electrode with a dielectric layer is electrically connected to a voltage source. A Laplace barrier within the hydrophobic channel defines a fluid pathway that is open to the movement of the polar fluid within the channel. The polar fluid moves to a first position when the voltage source is biased at a first voltage that is less than or equal to a threshold voltage. The polar fluid moves to a second position when the voltage source is biased with a second voltage that is greater than the first voltage.
US09180444B2
According to the present invention, a method for producing a catalyst for use in the production of a methylamine compound can be provided, wherein the catalyst comprises a modified crystalline silicoaluminophosphate salt molecular sieve. The method comprises: a moisture control step of adsorbing moisture onto a crystalline silicoaluminophosphate salt molecular sieve in an amount of 5 to 30 wt % of the crystalline silicoaluminophosphate salt molecular sieve; and a step of heating the crystalline silicoaluminophosphate salt molecular sieve having moisture adsorbed thereon under a pressure of 0.1 MPa or more and at a temperature of 130 to 350° C. for 5 to 40 hours.
US09180428B1
Methods of capturing and immobilizing radioactive nuclei with metal fluorite-based inorganic materials are described. For example, a method of capturing and immobilizing radioactive nuclei includes flowing a gas stream through an exhaust apparatus. The exhaust apparatus includes a metal fluorite-based inorganic material. The gas stream includes a radioactive species. The radioactive species is removed from the gas stream by adsorbing the radioactive species to the metal fluorite-based inorganic material of the exhaust apparatus.
US09180423B2
An apparatus for cooling a reactive mixture, comprising: a reactor configured to form the reactive mixture; a quench chamber comprising a frusto-conical body having a wide end, a narrow end, and a quench region formed between the wide and narrow end, wherein the quench chamber is configured to receive the reactive mixture from the plasma reactor through a reactive mixture inlet into the quench region, to receive a conditioning fluid through at least one fluid inlet, and to flow the conditioning fluid into the quench region, wherein the frusto-conical body is configured to produce a turbulent flow within the quench region with the flow of the conditioning fluid into the quench region, thereby promoting the quenching of the reactive mixture to form a cooled gas-particle mixture; and a suction generator configured to force the cooled gas-particle mixture out of the quench chamber.
US09180419B2
A method and apparatus for producing a synthesis gas product having one or more oxygen transport membrane elements thermally coupled to one or more catalytic reactors such that heat generated from the oxygen transport membrane element supplies endothermic heating requirements for steam methane reforming reactions occurring within the catalytic reactor through radiation and convention heat transfer. A hydrogen containing stream containing no more than 20 percent methane is combusted within the oxygen transport membrane element to produce the heat and a heated combustion product stream. The heated combustion product stream is combined with a reactant stream to form a combined stream that is subjected to the reforming within the catalytic reactor. The apparatus may include modules in which tubular membrane elements surround a central reactor tube.
US09180414B2
A fluoropolymer including a vinylidene fluoride unit, a tetrafluoroethylene unit, and a unit represented by the following formula (1): —CHX1—CX2(OR)— (1) wherein one of X1 and X2 is a hydrogen atom, and the other is a fluorine atom; and R is a hydrogen atom or a C1-C8 alkyl group.
US09180410B2
A decrease in determination accuracy on filter trouble due to a decrease in detection accuracy of a PM sensor is restricted. A filter, a selective reduction type NOx catalyst provided on a downstream of the filter, the PM sensor detecting an amount of PM on a downstream of the selective reduction type NOx catalyst, and a removal section conducting a process for removing a reducing agent attached to the PM sensor in a case where at least one of conditions is satisfied that a temperature of the selective reduction type NOx catalyst is equal to or lower than a threshold, that a temperature of the exhaust is equal to or lower than a threshold, that a flow rate of the exhaust is equal to or higher than a threshold, and that an adsorption amount of the reducing agent in the selective reduction type NOx catalyst is equal to or larger than a threshold are included.
US09180408B2
A method and system for operating an ammonia generation cycle in an internal combustion engine and a connected aftertreatment system includes monitoring a parameter of engine operation, comparing the parameter of engine operation to a threshold delineating operation of the engine in one of a stoichiometric operation and rich operation, and operating the ammonia generation cycle based upon the comparing indicating the parameter of engine operation exceeding the threshold.
US09180405B2
A process for recovery of ethylene from a polymerization product stream of a polyethylene production system, comprising separating a light gas stream from the polymerization product stream, wherein the light gas stream comprises ethane and unreacted ethylene, contacting the light gas stream with an absorption solvent system, wherein the contacting the light gas stream with the absorption solvent system occurs at a temperature in a range of from about 40° F. to about 110° F., wherein at least a portion of the unreacted ethylene from the light gas stream is absorbed by the absorption solvent system, and recovering unreacted ethylene from the absorption solvent system to yield recovered ethylene.
US09180403B2
An aqueous ionic absorbent solution is disclosed containing (a) about 15 wt. % to about 80 wt. % of one or more diluents, based on the total weight of the aqueous ionic absorbent solution; and (b) an ionic absorbent containing a cation and an anion comprising an amine moiety.
US09180392B2
A nonwoven fabric includes mixed fibers having different fiber diameters. A group of fibers having a fiber diameter of 5.0 μm or less (fiber group A) is present at a volume fraction of 20 to 80 vol %, a group of fibers having a fiber diameter of 50.0 μm or more (fiber group B) is present at a volume fraction of 1 to 40 vol %, and a group of fibers having a fiber diameter of more than 5.0 μm and less than 50.0 μm (fiber group C) is present at a volume fraction of 0 to 79 vol %. The ratio of the median fiber diameter (B′) of fiber group B to the median fiber diameter (A′) of fiber group A (B′/A′) is 35 or more.
US09180389B2
A filter includes an enclosure (10) and a filter core (20) mounted inside the enclosure (10). The filter core (20) includes a support (22) and a filtering element (24) entangled with the support (22). The enclosure (10) is of a spherical form and includes: a main body (12), an inlet passage (14) mounted to an upper portion of the main body (12), an outlet passage (16) mounted to a lower portion of the main body (12), and a ventilation tube (18) mounted to a top of the main body (12). The filtering element (24) is set in a spherically-shaped spiral so that the filter core (20) has reduced filtering areas at a top and a bottom ends thereof and an enlarged filtering area at a middle portion.
US09180384B2
Disclosed are a process and an apparatus for using an olefin as an azeotropic entrainer to isolate a target organic compound from a waste stream. The olefin may be, for example, 1-decene, 1-dodecene, or 1-tetradecene. The target organic compound may be 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol in waste stream comprising a 2,2′-oxybis(1-chloropropane).
US09180383B2
The disclosure is directed to high efficiency solar still assemblies and their components, and more particularly, to a solar still capable of absorbing direct sunlight and redirected sunlight using a mobile heliostat configured to align the still evaporator, the heliostat and a counter-current heat exchanger with the sun.
US09180381B2
A toy apparatus has a primary structure with components movably coupled together, and a target movably coupled to the primary structure. Repeated impacts on the target move the target from an initial position to a critical position. When the target reaches the critical position, the primary structure is released from a first state to a second state in which the components of the primary structure are at least partially displaced from each other.
US09180376B2
A game system including a plurality of mobile game apparatuses, and a mobile game apparatus that can communicate with another game apparatus that exists within a communicable range by use of a radio communications unit. When a communicated state is established, exchanging conditions for exchanging game data are received and transmitted, and in a case the exchange conditions are coincident with each other, the game data are exchanged.
US09180362B2
A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player.
US09180331B1
A leg rehabilitation apparatus is provided. The leg rehabilitation apparatus includes a base, a seat, an oscillating set, a linking-up set, a resisting device and a buffer. The seat is disposed on the base. The oscillating set is pivotally connected to the base. The linking-up set is connected with the oscillating set and coupled with the oscillating set. The resisting device is connected to the oscillating set and provides a resisting force to the oscillating set during the leg rehabilitation. The buffer is disposed on the base and connected to the linking-up set. The buffer provides a buffering force during the leg rehabilitation.
US09180325B2
An aerial retardant delivery system comprising a retardant tank mountable in the fuselage of an aircraft. The tank includes a pressure opening in fluid communication with the fuselage such that pressure in the fuselage may act on retardant contained in the tank. The tank includes an outlet extending through a sidewall of the aircraft's fuselage, through which retardant may be delivered to a target. The system also includes a discharge gate operative to open and close the outlet. An actuation mechanism is disposed on the exterior of the tank and operatively coupled to the at least one discharge gate. A variable flow controller controls the discharge gate open position in order to provide retardant over a desired area of terrain. A one-way flapper is disposed in the pressure opening and is operative to allow pressure in the fuselage to enter the tank while inhibiting retardant from spilling from the tank.
US09180324B2
Systems and methods for fire and smoke containment and extinguishing are described. Systems may include a fire and smoke containment and extinguishing apparatus including an open recess with one or more walls. The open recess may substantially prevent passage of fire, smoke and fumes. The apparatus may also include one or more seals for closing the open recess, and a fire extinguishing system. Methods for fire and smoke containment and extinguishment may include providing a fire and smoke containment and extinguishing system; inserting an item into the recess of the apparatus; closing the recess; and deploying the fire extinguishing system.
US09180320B2
The present invention relates to emulsion science, especially within the area of alcohol-in-oil type emulsion, where the level of ions comprised in the alcohol-in-oil type emulsion is relatively high. In particular, the invention relates to a stable alcohol-in-oil type emulsion comprising a multivalent metal salt that may act as an antiperspirant.
US09180319B2
A method of treating gum disease using a soft tissue diode laser which generates a beam of light having a wavelength in the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum (400 nm-700 nm) at a laser power of 0.5 to 1.2 watts, used with intermittent stops to control tissue temperature, to decontaminate the gum tissue and biostimulate the periodontium nonsurgically when used with a substrate, thus preventing the long junctional epithelium from migrating into the sulcus, preserving tissue height, and regenerating periodontium, the method comprising: placing the tip of the laser inside the sulcus; penetrating the entire sulcus by moving the laser light with intermittent stops to control tissue temperature vertically and horizontally throughout the sulcus; and placing a substrate in the sulcus prior to a blood clot forming, thus regenerating periodontium in the sulcus.
US09180311B2
An applicator device is provided including a connecting unit. The connecting unit includes a first connector coupled to a first colpostat and a second connector coupled to a second colpostat. The first connector includes a first contact portion and a body portion, the first contact portion being immovably fixed to the body portion. The second connector includes a second contact portion and a third contact portion, the second contact portion being configured to contact and pivotally engage the first contact portion. The first connector further includes a fourth contact portion configured to contact the third contact portion. The second contact portion and the third contact portion are disposed between the first contact portion and the fourth contact portion, and the first contact portion are disposed in closer proximity to a point of delivery of a radiation source than the second, third, or fourth contact portions.
US09180310B2
Methods of forming a low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy device include depositing a solution comprising a soluble form of a radioactive material on a substrate. A water-insoluble form of the radioactive material is formed on the substrate by chemical precipitation and/or thermal decomposition.
US09180308B1
A system and method of illuminating tissue, particularly within the cranial cavity, through the mouth or nose. The system includes a light source and a power source for powering the light source. Optics are included for directing light from the light source towards the cranial cavity when the apparatus is inserted into a cavity of the head. Light from the light source and output from the optic provides cellular interaction treatment toward a specified area of the head region. Providing illumination where there are already holes in the skull results in more efficient coupling of light to the cells.
US09180307B2
In response to local or systemic inflammation in a patient, photobiomodulation therapy is applied to a cardiac location to reduce the risk and/or occurrence of cardiac arrhythmia. Once inflammation is identified, photobiomodulation therapy can be applied in any suitable fashion (e.g., via a catheter- or transesophageal probe-mounted photoemitter, via an externally-applied photoemitter, or via photoemitter incorporated into an implantable medical device). Photobiomodulation therapy can also be employed to good advantage in conjunction with non-photobiomodulation therapy (e.g., traditional cardiac rhythm management therapies).
US09180300B2
A medical device and associated method classify candidate pacing electrode sites for delivering pacing pulses to a patient's heart. A first morphology template is established and stored in memory of the device. A processor is configured to determine a cardiac signal morphology in response to delivering pacing pulses at a candidate pacing site in a first heart chamber. The processor compares the determined cardiac signal morphology to the first morphology template. The pacing site in the first heart chamber is classified in response to the comparing of the determined cardiac signal morphology and the first morphology template.
US09180287B2
A wound therapy method that results in improved wound healing for conditions including diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and arterial and venous ulcers is described. The wound therapy method uses local anesthetic injections in an area surrounding the wound combined with electrical stimulation causing local and deep muscle contraction in the same area. The method leads to increased vasodilation, increased tissue oxygen levels at the target site, and increased blood flow to the target site. This causes local angiogenesis and tissue perfusion that increases wound healing rates and decreases future wound occurrences.
US09180280B2
A catheter comprises an elongated carrier and a balloon carried by the carrier in sealed relation thereto. The balloon has an outer surface and is arranged to receive a fluid therein that inflates the balloon. The catheter further comprises a shock wave generator within the balloon that forms mechanical shock waves within the balloon, and a medicinal agent carried on the outer surface of the balloon. The medicinal agent is releasable from the balloon by the shock waves.
US09180278B2
A medical instrument to be inserted into a living body before being used. The medical instrument is provided with a medical instrument main body including a long linear body having flexibility on which a coating layer covering at least the outer periphery on the distal side thereof is formed. The coating layer composes of a first layer which includes a material containing a low-friction resin material capable of lowering friction and a binder resin material serving as a binder; a second layer which is formed on the first layer and includes a material containing a low-friction resin material and a pigment and in which the content of a binder resin material is lower than the binder resin material content of the first layer or nil; and a third layer which is formed on the second layer and includes a material containing a low-friction resin material.
US09180276B2
A method involves positioning an assembled indwelling assembly adjacent a patient, wherein the assembly includes an inner needle, a hub fixed to the inner needle, a hollow outer member in which the inner needle is positioned, a hub fixed to the hollow outer member, and an elongated member axially overlapping an intermediate portion of the hollow outer member. The method also includes moving a distal portion of the assembly to puncture a blood vessel of the patient with the sharp needlepoint while the elongated member contacts the hollow outer member, advancing the hollow outer member in a distal direction along the inner needle to insert a distal portion of the hollow outer member to a target position in the blood vessel, and moving the inner needle hub in a proximal direction such that the inner needle is pulled out from and entirely removed from the hollow outer member.
US09180270B2
A non-invasive ventilation system may include at least one outer tube with a proximal lateral end of the outer tube adapted to extend to a side of a nose. The at least one outer tube may also include a throat section. At least one coupler may be located at a distal section of the outer tube for impinging at least one nostril and positioning the at least one outer tube relative to the at least one nostril. At least one jet nozzle may be positioned within the outer tube at the proximal lateral end and in fluid communication with a pressurized gas supply. At least one opening in the distal section may be adapted to be in fluid communication with the nostril. At least one aperture in the at least one outer tube may be in fluid communication with ambient air. The at least one aperture may be in proximity to the at least one jet nozzle.
US09180267B2
The invention is directed to a positive airway pressure (PAP) system with a head mounted harness assembly with a housing and a head position sensor located within or secured to the housing that detects the position of a patient's head, and communicates this head position information to a controller of the system which may be disposed within the housing having the position sensor or a second housing. The controller varies the output pressure of the pressure source e.g., a rotary compressor, based, at least in part, on the head position information provided by the head position sensor. In a preferred embodiment, the position sensor is an accelerometer.
US09180264B2
A medicated module containing a medicament is configured for removable attachment to the mouthpiece of an inhaler. The inhaler may contain a first medicament such that a single firing of the inhaler will deliver both medicaments to the user.
US09180262B2
Devices are disclosed that include a positionable elongated member configured to support and delivery tube and maintain a distal end of the tube in a desired position, and to allow the position of the distal end of the tube to be adjusted by a user, and an attachment device configured to allow a proximal end of the elongated member to be secured in a fixed position. These devices may be used, for example, in the delivery of vaporized medicine to a patient, e.g., a child or infant on a bed.
US09180258B2
An auto-injector for administering a dose of a liquid medicament (M) is presented having an elongate housing arranged to contain a syringe, a proximal end (P) with an orifice, wherein the syringe is slidably arranged with respect to the housing. A drive spring upon activation pushes the needle from a covered position inside the housing into an advanced position through the orifice and past the proximal end (P), and operates the syringe to supply the dose of medicament (M). An activating means locks the drive spring in a compressed state. The housing distal and a proximal portions are connected by a hinge, and are rotatable about the hinge between an aligned position and a maximum opening angle. A loading bay for holding the syringe is arranged in the proximal portion.
US09180254B2
Disclosed herein are fastening features for cartridge assemblies that include coding features that help dedicate a medicament reservoir to specific injection devices. An exemplary cartridge assembly comprises a cylindrical inner surface for holding medicament and a cylindrical outer surface comprising a fastening feature having a first coding element protruding from the cylindrical outer surface. The coding element is configured to engage a complementary coding feature on the fastener on a dose setting member specifically configured to dispense the medicament, thereby allowing only the correct cartridge assembly to connect to the correct dose setting member.
US09180248B2
A delivery device includes a durable housing portion and a separable disposable portion that selectively engage and disengage from each other. The disposable housing portion secures to the patient and may be disposed of after it has been in use for a prescribed period. Components that normally come into contact with a patient or with infusion media are supported by the disposable housing portion for disposal after the prescribed use, while the durable housing portion supports other components such as electronics for controlling delivery of infusion media from the reservoir and a drive device and drive linkage.
US09180246B2
The apparatus relates to a medicament container for a liquid medicament. The medicament container comprises a deformable bag with an outlet and at least one deformation member consisting of a shape memory alloy. The at least one deformation member is arranged to deform the deformable bag when the shape memory alloy passes from a first phase into a second phase by a phase transition, thereby changing the shape of the deformation member and squeezing a dose of the medicament through the outlet out of the bag.
US09180238B2
A dialysis machine includes a control unit having a user interface; a heater(s) located separate from the control unit; a supervisory processor located with the control unit; a delegate control processor located with the heater(s), the delegate control processor in communication with the supervisory processor and configured to receive load cell, heater(s) plate and supply bag temperature sensor inputs; and a sub-delegate heater(s) processor in communication with the control processor and configured to control power to the heater(s). The machine can also include primary and secondary monitoring processors that perform a safety check to the control processing and monitor the load cell.
US09180233B2
Systems, method, and devices are disclosed that involve reconfiguring lumens or unblocking lumens relative to a blockage to maintain flow of reduced pressure to a subcutaneous tissue site. In one instance, a multi-lumen applicator includes an applicator body having a distal end and a proximal end and formed with a plurality of apertures for receiving fluid from the tissue site and for delivering reduced pressure, a first lumen fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures, a first activation member having at least a closed position and a open position, and a second lumen fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures but for the first activation member being in closed position. The configuration is such that when the first activation member is moved to the open position, the second lumen is fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures. Other systems, methods, and devices are disclosed.
US09180232B2
A surgical system having all of the various pneumatic control sub-systems or sub-manifolds integrally mounted on a common primary manifold. The various required control mechanisms such as valves are likewise integrally mounted to the common manifold and to the sub-manifolds. Within any or all of the sub-manifolds or primary manifolds, volumes of material not necessary for the operation of the manifold are carved or pocketed out and used to form integral accumulators for storing extra pressurized air. The volume of the accumulator can vary according to the pressurized air requirement of the particular manifold, or the overall pneumatic system.
US09180229B2
An antimicrobial composition comprising: a complex of an anionic polyester with an antimicrobial metal wherein the anionic polyester has at least one carboxylic acid group. A medical device having an antimicrobial composition comprising: a complex of an anionic polyester with an antimicrobial metal wherein the anionic polyester has at least one carboxylic acid group.
US09180224B2
The invention provides a particulate composition adapted for forming a bone graft substitute cement upon mixing with an aqueous solution, including i) a calcium sulfate hemihydrate powder having a bimodal particle distribution and a median particle size of about 5 to about 20 microns, wherein the calcium sulfate hemihydrate is present at a concentration of at least about 70 weight percent based on the total weight of the particulate composition; ii) a monocalcium phosphate monohydrate powder; and iii) a β-tricalcium phosphate powder having a median particle size of less than about 20 microns. Bone graft substitute cements made therefrom, a bone graft substitute kit comprising the particulate composition, methods of making and using the particulate composition, and articles made from the bone graft substitute cement are also provided.
US09180221B2
A method for adhering a medical device to biological tissue includes adhering an adhesive composition having a plurality of reactive members of a specific binding pair to tissue which has a plurality of complementary reactive members of the specific binding pair via click chemistry.
US09180220B2
A water absorbing agent of the present invention has an internal crosslinking structure obtained by polymerization of a water-soluble unsaturated monomer. The agent satisfies conditions (a) to (d): (a) the agent contains water-insoluble inorganic particles at an amount of from 10 ppm to 1,900 ppm inclusive; (b) the agent contains 5 mass % or less particles which have such a size that they can pass through a sieve having a mesh opening size of 150 μm; (c) the agent has an absorbency against a pressure of 4.83 kPa (AAP) of 18 g/g or more; and (d) the water-insoluble inorganic particles reside on a surface of the water absorbing resin or near the surface.
US09180217B2
A system, device and method for sterilizing or decontaminating an object that by exposing the object to a sterilant gas comprised of one or more oxides of nitrogen, such as NO, NO2, NO3, N2O3, N2O4, N2O5, N2O and mixtures thereof. The source of the sterilant gas can be generated from a sterilant gas-generating composition or provided by a source of the sterilant gas.
US09180211B2
A method for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging or spectroscopy on a MR scanner to detect tissue physiological parameters in one or more tissue areas in a human or non-human subject includes administering to the subject a contrast enhancing physiologically tolerable amount of a sugar that is non-labeled, subjecting the subject to an MR procedure capable of generating MR signals encoding at least one tissue area in the subject in which the sugar either passes or is taken up, detecting a temporal variation in the MR signals in the at least one tissue area after the administering the sugar, determining at least one tissue-related parameter from the temporal variation, and ascertaining whether the at least one tissue-related parameter is abnormal.
US09180209B2
Methods and materials for the imaging of cells and tissues containing active proteases such as cathepsin are disclosed. The present materials include activity based probes that bind to an enzyme and are subsequently cleaved. Cleavage results in covalent attachment of a fluorescent signal to a target protease due to removal of a quenching group which, when present on the probe causes altered or no fluorescence. The probes are non-peptidic, small molecule scaffolds linked to a reactive acyloxymethyl ketone group, a fluorophore and a quencher. The probes are cell permeable and may use, for example, a QSY21 (CAS 304014-13-9) quencher and a cyanine dye. The probes form covalent bonds with the active site of cysteine cathepsins, proteases that are upregulated at the tumor boundaries with normal tissue and at sites of inflammation.
US09180202B2
The present invention relates to functionalized ploy(2-oxazoline) polymers, which are very suitable as a carrier and/or delivery vehicle (conjugate) of drugs, such as small therapeutic molecules and bio-pharmaceuticals. These polymers are characterized in that they comprise repeating units that are represented by the following formula —[N(R1)—(CHR2)m]- wherein R1 is R3—(CHR4)n-CONH—R5; R2 is selected from H and optionally substituted C1-5alkyl; R3 is CH2CO, C(O)O, C(O)NH OR C(S)NH; R4 is selected from H and optionally substituted C1-5alkyl; R5 is H; an C1-5alkyl; aryl; or a moiety comprising a functional group that can be used for conjugation; m is 2 or 3 and n is 1-5; or n is 0 and R3 is CH2. The invention relates further to a conjugate of these polyoxazoline polymers with at least one active moiety, such as a therapeutic moiety, a targeting moiety and/or diagnostic moiety, and to the use of these conjugates in the therapeutic treatment or prophylactic treatment or diagnosis of a disease or disorder.
US09180183B2
Provided in some embodiments are compositions comprising a compound having a structure according to Formula A or Formula B: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, tautomer or hydrate thereof, where X2 is a bond or linker, X3 is bond or —PO4—, and X1, R1, R2, R3, and n are described herein. Also provided in some embodiments are methods for making and using such compounds and compositions.
US09180178B2
A mutated Bordetella strain comprising at least a mutated ptx gene, a deleted or mutated dnt gene and a heterologous ampG gene is provided. The attenuated mutated Bordetella strain can be used in an immunogenic composition or a vaccine for the treatment or prevention of a Bordetella infection. Use of the attenuated Bordetella strain for the manufacture of a vaccine or immunogenic composition, as well as methods for protecting mammals against infection by Bordetella are also provided.
US09180176B2
The present invention relates to novel bacterial and mycobacterial compositions containing RNA and cell walls, and methods for making and using these compositions. These compositions have immune stimulating and anti-cancer activity.
US09180163B2
The present invention relates to parstatin peptides, compositions comprising parstatin peptides and their use in the treatment of various disorders, including angiogenesis-related diseases, ocular neovascularization and related disease states, ischemia-reperfusion injury and myocardial-related disease states, and renal disorders.
US09180161B2
Disclosed are compositions and methods useful for delivering targeted therapies for pulmonary diseases, fibrotic disorders and cancer. The compositions and methods are based on peptide sequences that selectively bind to and home to diseased tissue and enable targeted therapies to effect a beneficial therapeutic result. The disclosed targeting is useful for delivering therapeutic and detectable agents to diseased tissue in an animal.
US09180159B2
The present invention refers to the use of protein kinase inhibitors and more specifically to the use of inhibitors of the protein kinase c-Jun amino terminal kinase, JNK inhibitor sequences, chimeric peptides, or of nucleic acids encoding same as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing same, for the treatment of non-chronic or chronic inflammatory digestive diseases, such as colitis, including e.g. Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diversion colitis, ischemic colitis, infectious colitis, fulminant colitis, chemical colitis, microscopic colitis, lymphocytic colitis, and atypical colitis, etc.
US09180158B2
Beneficial topical compositions for treating scar or aging skin are provided. In one embodiment, the compositions include Bulbine frutescens, Centella asiatica and a phenol derived from olives, such as oleuropein. The composition may be used in the treatment of scars formed during surgery. The composition may also be used cosmeceutically in the treatment of aged skin, and may include phosphatidylserine, vitamins, and other beneficial anti-aging ingredients.
US09180149B2
The present invention concerns methods and compositions for the treatment of cancer and cancer cells using intravascular administration of a vaccinia virus. In some embodiments, methods and compositions involve a replicative vaccinia virus that encodes GM-CSF.
US09180148B2
Formulations are provided for the management of weight. The formulations generally include a trigger complex, an elemental complex and a coenzyme-vitamin B complex. The trigger complex is high in fiber such as glucomannan and includes Metallo-Lactoferrin protein in an alkaline buffer system. The elemental complex includes one or more trace element as a suitable salt. The coenzyme-vitamin B complex includes one or more coenzyme, coenzyme precursor and/or B-vitamin. The compositions may optionally include additional components such as dihydroxy acetone (DHA), inositol, 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), choline, milk protein hydrolysate, and pyruvate. The compositions can be administered orally in a variety of forms and may substitute for one or more meals per day to manage weight.
US09180144B2
The invention provides an improved method of producing a natural, acellular matrix scaffold for subsequent use in tissue-engineered replacement of tissues such as the bladder. Decellularisation is carried out on an expanded or distended bladder and the product retains the strength and compliance of natural material. The invention also provides use of the matrix scaffolds as wound healing material and to investigate tissue structure and function in vitro.
US09180140B2
The performance of a mammal, manifested as a reduced oxygen uptake (VO2) during physical exercise, can be enhanced by administering to said mammal a non-toxic amount of nitrate and/or nitrite. Liquid, semi-solid and solid snack and food products and nutritional supplements, such as sport drinks are made available.
US09180131B2
The invention relates to a method of contraception, which method comprises administering to a woman in need thereof an emergency contraception during one or two days, followed by a prolonged low dosage contraceptive treatment until next menstrual period.
US09180127B2
The present invention relates to novel compounds which are able to modulate b-raf kinases, and the use of such compounds in the treatment of various diseases, disorders or conditions.
US09180123B2
The present invention is directed to a new class of hydroxamic acid derivatives, their use as LpxC inhibitors, and more specifically their use to treat bacterial infections.
US09180121B2
This invention relates to topical compositions for combating ectoparasites and endoparasites in animals, comprising at least one isoxazoline active agent and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, optionally in combination with one or more additional active agents. This invention also provides for an improved methods for eradicating, controlling, and preventing parasite infections and infestations in an animal comprising administering the compositions of the invention to the animal in need thereof.
US09180118B2
The present invention relates to compounds of the formulae herein, their acceptable salts, solvates, hydrates and polymorphs thereof. The compounds of this invention are useful in treatment of disease, particularly leukemia. The invention also provides compositions comprising a compound of this invention and the use of such compositions in methods of treating disease, disorders, or symptoms thereof in a subject.
US09180117B2
Provided is a composition for use in treating a skin condition, the composition comprising: (a) a first component comprising a substituted or unsubstituted diindolylmethane compound; and (b) a second component comprising a substituted or unsubstituted retinoid compound.
US09180097B2
The present invention provides improved formulations of 6-mercaptopurine that exhibit better bioavailability and faster dissolution than previous formulations.
US09180094B2
Materials and methods for preparing three dimensional scaffolds are described. The materials, as improved high internal phase emulsions (HIPES), and the polymerization thereof may be suitable for injection prior to curing and when in an injectable form may be for site-directed in vivo use, curing after injection. In addition, said materials before curing may be engineered as a tissue substitution or enhancement and/or to include cell encapsulation. Said materials described herein form a monolith after curing and are biodegradable and porous after curing. Said materials are made from starting molecules using a process that does not rely on toxic solvents or monomers. Making of said materials to form the emulsion take advantage of one or more surfactants for HIPE stability. In addition, said materials cure at temperatures appropriate for use in an in vivo or in situ environment.
US09180090B2
Disclosed are injectable formulations of cetirizine for treating acute allergic reactions and methods for treating acute allergic reactions. In particular, an intravenous injectable is disclosed as are methods of treating acute allergic reactions.
US09180085B2
Novel inverse latices based on fatty alcohol ethers of formula R1—O—R2 (I) in which R1 and R2 represent, independently from one another, a linear or branched alkyl radical comprising from 5 to 18 carbon atoms; and cosmetic, dermocosmetic, dermopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US09180073B2
Provided is a silicone impression material with high hydrophilicity that exhibits instantaneous hydrophilicity before being cured, that exhibits high hydrophilicity after being cured, that has preferable properties for a dental impression material, and that has good preservation stability. A sorbitan fatty acid ester based surfactant and a nonionic surfactant composed of polyether modified silicone are used in combination as a hydrophilizing agent not containing a siloxane polymer and a hydrophilizing agent containing a siloxane polymer, respectively.
US09180071B2
A pill preparation device is disclosed. The pill preparation device includes a base, an anvil supported by the base, and a platen coupled to the base and movable relative to the anvil. The platen has a crushing surface oriented toward the anvil and a rolling surface on a side opposite the crushing surface. The pill preparation device also includes a lever arm slidably coupled to the base and rotatable about a pivot, and a roller coupled to the lever arm and offset from the pivot, such that the lever arm is operable to selectively position the roller about the platen. Force applied to the lever arm forces the platen toward the anvil to facilitate breaking up a pill disposed between the crushing surface and the anvil. Movement of the lever arm causes movement of the roller to facilitate breaking up a pill disposed between the roller and the rolling surface.
US09180070B2
An adaptor for coupling with a medical container having a collar closed by a septum including: a tubular body closed at a distal end with a transversal wall from which extends a hollow spike, and at a proximal end by a pierceable elastomeric piece including a cavity having a plurality of circumferentially distributed chambers, each chamber being connected to the hollow spike by a radial channel, the tubular body further receiving an intermediate piece including a plurality of through holes aligned on the chambers, a selecting member having a closure wall provided with one opening, capable of rotating so that the opening is successively aligned with each of the through holes, and a gripping member for securing the adaptor to the medical container. Also, an assembly including the adaptor and a medical container.
US09180065B2
There is provided a brake rod assembly for a walker apparatus. The assembly includes a brake rod operatively connected to a brake for braking the walker apparatus. The assembly includes a connection member operatively connected to a brake handle. The assembly includes a gripping member that is spring-biased to slidably receive the brake rod. The gripping member has an adjustment mechanism rigidly connected thereto that adjustably engages a connection member. Actuation of the connection member tilts the gripping member upwards and engages the brake rod for braking the walker apparatus.
US09180064B2
A safety walker includes a pair of side members, arms and spring loaded pins engaging the arms so as to allow movement of the side members between an operative position, wherein the side members are disposed in a spaced apart generally parallel relationship with each other and a generally folded position, wherein the side members are generally juxtaposed in a generally planar relationship with and in close proximity to each other. There is also a seat that is configured for movement between a stored position wherein the seat is disposed generally parallel to a rear leg of one of the pair of the side members and a second position wherein the seat is disposed generally horizontally across a space between rear legs of the pair of the side members. The safety walker is also configured for supporting various medical devices often connected to the user.
US09180062B2
A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included.
US09180060B2
An omni-directional electric vehicle includes: a body having a chair portion; an operation detection unit which detects an operation direction and an operation amount of an operation input; a travel control information generation unit which generates, based on the operation direction and the operation amount, travel control information including (i) a target straight-movement speed for moving the body in a forward/backward direction and (ii) a target rotation speed for rotating the body about a rotation center; and a control unit which drives a movement mechanism of the body according to the travel control information. The travel control information generation unit-changes, based on the target straight-movement speed, the rotation center for the target rotation speed from a reference position which is set virtually and fixedly to the body in the forward/backward direction.
US09180057B2
The orthosis comprises an elastic compressive distal portion extending upwards from the ankle and associated with an adjoining containment proximal portion covering a region of the calf extending between the level of the junction point between the Achilles tendon and the calf muscle and the level situated beneath the tibial tuberosity. This containment proximal portion is an essentially non-elastic deformable tubular portion made by knitting with a thermoformable yarn, and it is knitted continuously with the elastic compressive distal portion.
US09180054B2
An implantable drug delivery apparatus for delivering a drug into a bodily fluid in a body cavity of a patient over a period of time includes a variable-volume vessel defining a working chamber for receiving a drug and recirculating a therapeutic fluid. The fluid can contain a bodily fluid, such as, for example, perilymph, and a drug. The device allows for the controlled delivery of the therapeutic fluid to a predetermined location in the bodily cavity of the patient, such as, for example, a cochlea of a human ear.
US09180040B2
An intrauterine contraceptive system may include a contraceptive intrauterine device, a retrieval thread permanently attached to the intrauterine device and an insertion device for inserting the intrauterine device into a uterus. The system may also include a release thread releasably coupled with the intrauterine device. The intrauterine device may be deployable out of a distal end of the insertion device and may be configured to change from a delivery configuration when housed in the insertion device to a deployed configuration when deployed in a uterus. The retrieval thread and the optional release thread may be at least partially housed within the insertion device during insertion of the intrauterine device into the uterus. The release thread may extend from the intrauterine device through the insertion device to an attachment point at or near a proximal end of the insertion device.
US09180029B2
Implantable splinting devices for supporting a passageway defect in a patient that is formed from one or more support structures including a polymer or a polymer and acellularized tissue matrix that define a structural component that substantially conforms to a defective passageway of the patient. The structural component also has a plurality of pores. The implantable splinting device is capable of being placed around a trachea, a bronchi, an esophagus and a blood vessel of a patient. The implantable splinting device may also be configured for placement between the trachea, and the esophagus of a patient.
US09180025B2
A powered leg prosthesis including a powered knee joint with a knee joint and a knee motor unit for delivering power to the knee joint, a powered ankle joint coupled to the knee joint including an ankle joint and an ankle motor unit to deliver power to the ankle joint, a prosthetic foot coupled to the ankle joint, a plurality of sensors for measuring a real-time input, and controller for controlling movement of the prosthesis based on the real-time input. In the powered leg prosthesis, at least one of the knee motor unit or the ankle motor unit includes at least one drive stage, where the drive stage includes a rotary element for generating torque and at least one looped element affixed around the rotary element and configured for transmitting the torque to another rotary element coupled to a joint to be actuated.
US09180018B2
The present invention relates to an expandable prosthetic implant device for engagement between vertebrae generally comprising an inner member, outer member, gear member and a locking assembly positioned coaxial with respect to each other such that the inner and outer members are moveable relative to each other along an axis. The gear member is axially fixed to the outer member and freely rotatable with respect to the outer member and the gear member threadedly engages a threaded portion of the inner member to translate inner member along the axis. The implant is configured to engage the vertebrae in a predetermined alignment and the gear member includes gear teeth exposed to the exterior and configured to be accessible by a tool member at a plurality of angular positions around the perimeter of the implant device.
US09180017B2
The present disclosure relates to an intervertebral disc prostheses or implant, and more particularly to an intervertebral disc prosthesis that can be surgically introduced between adjacent vertebral bodies and adjusted or expanded in situ to occupy an optimal or desired space between the vertebral bodies. The implant is preferably inserted into the evacuated disc space obliquely and then oriented so as to extend laterally across the anterior adjacent vertebrae bodies occupying the disc space with the outer ends of the implant being supported by the cortical rims on the opposite sides of the vertebrae bodies. The outer convex surfaces of the two body members conform anatomically to the shape of the disc space contacting the endplates. The implant has two body members that are movable relative to one another so as to vary the space between the members. With the implant so positioned and oriented, the disc space and the implant may be then distracted and a spacer of a desired, predetermined thickness may be inserted within the space between the body members so as to maintain a desired amount of distraction. A method of using an implant is also disclosed.
US09180015B2
Methods and devices for correcting wear pattern defects in joints. The methods and devices described herein allow for the restoration of correcting abnormal biomechanical loading conditions in a joint brought on by wear pattern defects, and also can, in embodiments, permit correction of proper kinematic movement.
US09180012B2
An improved implant having components comprising an oxidized zirconium bearing surface adapted to decrease pain, lower friction, and minimize wear when coupled with natural femoral articular cartilage. The improved implant components also provide for reduced backside wear effects in fixed and mobile implants. The improved implant components further provide for more ideal wear coupling between components in mobile bearing implants.
US09180005B1
Excessive dilation of the annulus of a mitral valve may lead to regurgitation of blood during ventricular contraction. This regurgitation may lead to a reduction in cardiac output. Disclosed are systems and methods relating to an implant configured for reshaping a mitral valve. The implant comprises a plurality of struts with anchors for tissue engagement. The implant is compressible to a first, reduced diameter for transluminal navigation and delivery to the left atrium of a heart. The implant may then expand to a second, enlarged diameter to embed its anchors to the tissue surrounding and/or including the mitral valve. The implant may then contract to a third, intermediate diameter, pulling the tissue radially inwardly, thereby reducing the mitral valve and lessening any of the associated symptoms including mitral regurgitation.
US09180000B2
A based device for use as tissue repair includes a median part between two end parts. The median and end parts have a different tensile stiffness.
US09179994B2
The present disclosure relates to implantable medical devices which include at least one mesh and at least one film attached to the mesh along different portions of the mesh creating at least one aperture between the mesh and the film.
US09179991B2
Described are methods of treating urinary incontinence using a urinary sling and a tissue path that passes through the obturator foramen, along with related surgical implants, devices, systems, and kits.
US09179990B2
A hand-held light curing apparatus is used with a housing (12), a light source (14), in particular at least one LED, which is connected to a control unit (36), an energy source (20) and at least one energy storage unit in the form of at least one double layer capacitor (26, 28). It is provided that the light source (14) is fed simultaneously by the energy source (20) which is formed as a local energy source such as an accumulator and the double layer capacitor (26, 28).
US09179983B2
A computer assisted surgery (CAS) system and method for preparing an anatomical structure to receive an orthopaedic implant. The method generally involves the steps of determining a contour of the anatomical structure by using the CAS system to acquire a plurality of points on the anatomical structure and provide a best fit approximation of the anatomical structure based on the plurality of points, selecting an implant to replicate the anatomical structure, and preparing the anatomical structure to receive the implant.
US09179982B2
In a method of verifying patient identity, an image of an individual who is to receive radiotherapy is obtained and compared with a reference image of a patient to whom the radiotherapy is intended. Confirmation or negation of the individual to be the patient intended can be made based on the comparison of the image of the individual with the reference image of the patient.
US09179974B2
Helical push wire electrodes are provided. The electrodes may create a continuous helical lesion. One or more electrodes may wind around a support section and create a set of helixes having fixed ends and hitches. Pushing or pulling an end of the electrode transforms the electrodes between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration such that the set of helixes expand or contract axially. Different portions of the electrodes may be surrounded by sleeves. The sleeves may regulate how the wires transform and provide insulation. Various insulation configurations of the electrodes may provide creations of discrete lesions, efficient energy delivery and reduced power consumption.
US09179966B2
Disclosed herein are methods of delivering current to a target tissue using a medical instrument, wherein the medical instrument is configured to track and deliver a predetermined current time amount. Also disclosed herein are methods and a system of monitoring for usage of a hemorrhoid treatment instrument and invoicing for such usage.
US09179965B2
An electrosurgical working end that utilizes supercavitation phenomenon for controlled application of electrosurgical energy to tissue. In one preferred method of the invention, the system utilizes an electrosurgical surface that is rotatable in a liquid substance at very high surface velocities capable of localized lowering of the pressure of the substance below its saturated vapor pressure to cause supercavitation, and contemporaneously applying electrical energy from the electrosurgical surface across the cavity to ablate adjacent tissue. The system creates supercavitation with surface velocities of greater than about 70 m/sec in a liquid substance by means of high speed rotation and optionally ultrasound actuation.
US09179962B2
An intravascular catheter for peri-vascular or peri-urethral tissue ablation includes multiple needles advanced through supported guide tubes which expand with open ends around a central axis to engage the interior surface of the wall of the renal artery or other vessel of a human body allowing the injection an ablative fluid for ablating tissue, such as nerve fibers in the outer layer or deep to the outer layer of the vessel, or in prostatic tissue. The system also controls the depth of penetration of the ablative fluid into and beyond the tissue of the vessel wall. The preferred embodiment of the catheter includes structures which provide radial and lateral support to the guide tubes so that the guide tubes open uniformly and maintain their position against the interior surface of the vessel wall as the sharpened injection needles are advanced to penetrate into the vessel wall.
US09179961B2
Implant delivery systems for delivering sheet-like implants include a delivery shaft, an implant expander, a sheath, and a sheet-like implant. In some embodiments, the delivery shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. The implant expander is mounted to the distal end of the delivery shaft. The implant expander includes a central portion and a plurality of leg portions radiating from the central portion. The implant expander is evertable between an unstressed configuration in which a distal surface of the implant expander defines a concave surface, and a first compact configuration in which the distal surface of the implant expander defines a convex surface. The implant expander has a first lateral extent when the implant expander is free to assume the unstressed configuration. The sheath defines a lumen having a lumen diameter. At least a portion of the delivery shaft is slidably disposed in the lumen. The lumen diameter is smaller than the first lateral extent of the implant expander so that the sheath holds the implant expander in the first compact configuration when slidably disposed therein. The sheet-like implant overlays at least a portion of the distal surface of the implant expander with portions of the sheet-like implant extending between the leg portions of the implant expander and the sheath. Methods of treating a rotator cuff of a shoulder are also disclosed.
US09179949B2
An intramedullary nail comprises longitudinal channel, a first transverse passage and a second transverse passage. A lag screw extends through the first transverse passage of the intramedullary nail. An anti-rotation shaft extends through the second transverse passage of the intramedullary nail. A cannulated lag screw lock is positioned in the intramedullary shaft and engages the lag screw. The anti-rotation shaft extends through a cross channel in the lag screw lock. A second shaft lock is positioned in the intramedullary nail with the second shaft lock engaging the anti-rotation shaft. In at least one embodiment, the lag screw lock includes a substantially cylindrical body portion rotatably connected to a threaded head portion. In at least one embodiment, the second shaft lock is provided as an end cap including a threaded upper portion and a lower post portion that extends into the lag screw lock.
US09179948B2
The present invention relates to a brace installation instrument placement that is mounted to anchors secured in an animal subject. The installation instrument includes anchor extensions coupled to the anchors. The instrument is movable with respect to the anchors to position a brace in a position more proximate the anchors. The brace can be indexed for insertion at a predetermined orientation with respect to the installation instrument. Methods and techniques for using the installation instrument are also provided.
US09179946B2
Low-profile anterior vertebral plate assemblies and methods of use are disclosed herein. The plate assemblies herein are useful for coupling adjacent vertebral bodies together. Preferred vertebral plates assemblies herein are low-profile, meaning that the assemblies herein are positioned partially within and partially outside of the intervertebral space. Additional teachings are directed to hinged low-profile anterior vertebral plate assemblies that allow slight flexion towards the vertebral bodies in a sufficient amount to prevent kyphosis, and encourage a desired amount of lordosis.
US09179944B2
The present disclosure generally relates to a device for positioning and immobilizing at least two adjacent vertebrae. In particular, in one or more embodiments, the present disclosure relates to spinous process fusion devices that distract and immobilize the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae.
US09179926B2
Methods and devices that utilize segmental fixation between several adjacent vertebrae, thus allowing each vertebrae to be adjusted independently, are provided. In general, the device includes a spinal anchoring element that is adapted to seat at least one spinal fixation element, and a closure mechanism that is adapted to mate to the spinal anchoring element to lock the at least one spinal fixation element in a fixed position relative to the spinal anchoring element.
US09179922B2
Method of making interventional medical device system having a slotted section and radiopaque marker
A system is provided that includes an elongated introducer navigable through body vessels of a human subject and a pusher component for incorporation within the introducer. The pusher component includes a tubular portion with a slotted section. A radiopaque marker is secured to at least a portion of the slotted section such that an outer surface of the radiopaque marker is substantially flush with an outer surface of the tubular portion immediately proximal and/or immediately distal the radiopaque marker. According to a method of manufacturing such a component, the slotted section is formed by a laser cutting operation and a pre-assembly radiopaque marker member is crimped onto the slotted section.
US09179915B2
An endovascular stapler for securing an endograft to a vessel is disclosed. The stapler includes a staple housing adapted for storing at least one staple therein, the staple housing having an exit area for discharge of the at least one staple therethrough, an actuating assembly adapted for discharging the at least one staple through the exit area, and a displacement mechanism in operative association with the staple housing near the exit area. The displacement member is operative for pushing the exit area against the endograft when discharging the at least one staple therethrough. The discharged staple forms a plurality of opposed loops connected by a central element upon discharge. Also disclosed are staples and displacement mechanisms adapted for use with surgical instruments such as the present endovascular staplers. The staples may be formed from memory metal or other metal. The displacement mechanisms disclosed include balloons and rigid offsetting devices.
US09179913B2
A surgical fastener applier is disclosed, including a surgical fastener forming apparatus including surgical fasteners, an anvil having a plurality of fastener deforming cavities, and a plurality of pushers. The fastener includes a backspan having a bend along its length, and a pair of legs extending from the ends of the backspan. The pusher is configured to support the backspan, and translate the surgical fastener toward the fastener deforming cavities. The fastener legs enter and are deformed by the cavities in a manner such that they exit the cavities and contact a forming head protruding from the pusher. The forming head curves a portion of the fastener legs such that they lie parallel to and abut a portion of the backspan in the same plane. Also disclosed is a method of forming a surgical fastener with the surgical fastener forming apparatus.
US09179909B2
A suture-based vessel closure device can perform the dilation of an arteriotomy puncture and does not require previous dilation of the arteriotomy puncture by a separate device or by a procedural sheath dilator. The suture-based vessel closure device can place one or more sutures across the vessel access site such that, when the suture ends are tied off after sheath removal, the stitch or stitches provide hemostasis to the access site.
US09179898B2
A laparoscopic tissue sealant spray apparatus and system having a laparoscopic tissue sealant spray assembly combined with a trocar assembly, the tissue sealant spray assembly having an elongate delivery tube. A spray outlet at a distal end of the elongate delivery tube may be rounded or angled. A ring member provided at the distal end of the elongate delivery tube directs a spray cone toward a portion of a target tissue site, and the spray cone may be repositioned to a different portion of the target tissue site by rotation of the elongate delivery tube. The trocar assembly includes a vent opening that connects to a venting valve member that provides a vent path which passively opens upon operation of the tissue sealant spray assembly, avoiding excessive pressure build-up within a body cavity.
US09179884B2
A method and system for determining normalized metrics for visceral adipose tissue (VAT) mass and volume estimation. The normalized metrics including a VAT average cross-section determined by dividing a VAT volume by a height of the abdominal region of interest, and a VAT linear mass density determined by dividing the VAT mass by a height of an abdominal region of interest.
US09179883B2
In an embodiment of an X-ray image acquisition system, an X-ray image detector includes a detector layer having a matrix composed of x total pixels structured in such a way that in a direction standing perpendicularly with respect to the grating lines of the diffraction or phase grating, the total pixels are subdivided into y subpixels which can be driven and/or read out in groups in a readout process such that, in a first phase step, n subpixels are effectively combined into groups, with m subpixels of a total pixel between the groups not being captured, and such that, in subsequent K−1 phase steps, n subpixels are in each case combined again into groups until all necessary combinations of subpixels have been captured, with the combined subpixels being shifted in the analysis direction by an increment of p subpixels in each case.
US09179881B2
A process and a system for assisting a clinician in identification and evaluation of perfusion characteristics of an organ are disclosed. The process and system may be used to extend clinical diagnosis capabilities by augmenting the ability to analyze perfusion images acquired from a radiology imaging modality through the use of the quantification technology as described. Classification of perfusion characteristics of a region of interest is facilitated through the use of a quantitative spatial perfusion characteristics map. The map is generated by a computing device which applies at least one physics-based image processing technique. This map is displayed on a clinician device for review by the clinician to assist in the spatial identification of perfusion abnormalities.
US09179869B2
The invention provides an implantable membrane for regulating the transport of analytes therethrough that includes a matrix including a first polymer; and a second polymer dispersed throughout the matrix, wherein the second polymer forms a network of microdomains which when hydrated are not observable using photomicroscopy at 400× magnification or less. In one aspect, the homogeneous membrane of the present invention has hydrophilic domains dispersed substantially throughout a hydrophobic matrix to provide an optimum balance between oxygen and glucose transport to an electrochemical glucose sensor.
US09179862B2
A method, system, and article of manufacture for detecting, recording, quantifying, and classifying gait data. In one embodiment, the method of the invention includes a step of detecting foot contact events using a portable sensor device. Stride data is collected by processing the detected foot contact events to obtain and record gait pattern data. At least one gait stability value is determined from the gait pattern data using a specified gait stability metric. The gait stability value is preferably a mathematical chaos value which is processed utilizing clustering correlation to classify the gait pattern data in association with a neuromuscular status. In a preferred embodiment, fuzzy logic is utilized to correlate the determined gait stability value with a plurality of gait stability values each associated with a distinct neuromuscular status.
US09179861B2
A method and system for measuring changes in inspiratory load of a patient's respiratory system during mechanical ventilation. The method and system calculate a first relation between a measured inspiratory airway pressure and a measured electrical activity of respiratory muscle, and a second relation between a measured inspiratory volume and the measured electrical activity. A load index is calculated from the first and second relations. Changes in inspiratory load are determined based on the load index.
US09179844B2
A handheld skin monitoring or measuring device includes a camera having a camera optical axis; and a structured light arrangement configured to project three or more laser fan beams such that the laser fan beams cross at a crossing point in front of the camera.
US09179837B2
A method of measurement is presented. A method of measurement according to some embodiments of the present invention includes obtaining a first measurement from a first imaging method; obtaining a second measurement from a second imaging method; combining the first and the second measurement to obtain a structural information and an image representation of a structure of an eye; calculating at least one shape parameter from the structural information; and displaying the image representation of the structure of the eye.
US09179829B2
An endoscope includes: an insertion portion to be inserted into a subject; an operation section provided at a proximal end of the insertion portion; a first light source section provided inside the operation section, the first light source section generating first light as broadband light having a broadband wavelength characteristic; a light guiding section that guides the first light emitted from the first light source section; a second light source section provided on a distal end side of the insertion portion, the second light source section generating second light; and an optical element provided on the distal end side of the insertion portion, the optical element combining the first light and the second light and emitting the resulting light from an illuminating window.
US09179828B2
An electronic endoscope apparatus includes: a CCD; a temperature sensor that detects a temperature of a distal end portion; a correlated double sampling section provided in a body portion, the correlated double sampling section extracting a signal component from an image signal outputted from the CCD; a timing generator that generates a sample-and-hold signal for making the correlated double sampling section operate and a drive pulse signal for driving the CCD; and a CPU that adjusts a timing of the sample-and-hold signal or the drive pulse signal generated by the timing generator, based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.
US09179820B2
A doormat for the enhanced cleaning of footwear. Exemplary embodiments include a doormat capable of hands free cleaning and drying of footwear, comprising a cleaning stage and a drying stage. Stepping onto the cleaning stage of the mat releases a cleaning fluid onto rotating sponges, which physically clean footwear while applying a cleaning solution. Stepping into the drying stage of the mat dries the footwear. The cleaning mat may also further comprise a supplemental cleaning stage and/or supplemental drying stage.
US09179815B2
A mop having a base plate, a top plate, a handle, and a lock assembly to connect the top plate to the base plate. The base plate has a lower surface configured to face a surface to be cleaned, and an upper surface opposite the lower surface. The handle has a proximal end connected to the top plate by a joint, and a distal with a grip at the distal end. The lock assembly includes one or more slots on one of the base plate and the top plate, and one or more projections on the other of the base plate and the top plate. The one or more projections are movable between an engaged position in which the one or more projections are in the one or more slots, and a disengaged position in which the one or more projections are not in the one or more slots.
US09179812B2
A hard surface cleaner having a cleaning head with rotational assist. In one embodiment, the cleaning head includes a housing having a fluid-supply and vacuum inlets. The housing also includes at least one flow-control inlet arranged with the vacuum inlet to draw a flow of air into the housing through the flow-control inlet. The cleaning head further includes a spray assembly at least partially enclosed within the housing. The spray assembly includes a shaft, at least one spray nozzle operably coupled to the shaft, and a plurality of fins also operably coupled to the shaft. The spray nozzle is configured to receive a pressurized fluid from the fluid-supply inlet and to rotate about the shaft by delivering the pressurized fluid toward a floor surface. The fins are positioned at least partially within the flow of air through the flow control inlet to control the rotational speed of the spray assembly.
US09179811B2
A work apparatus is comprised of a blower unit including a drive motor, a volute casing, a fan rotatably supported within the volute casing and driven by the drive motor, and an airflow duct connected to the volute casing, thereby blowing out or sucking in air through the airflow duct; and of an airflow tube coupled to the airflow duct of the blower unit and having an open distal end for blowing out or sucking in air through the airflow tube. The airflow tube is provided with a grip handle adapted for being held and operated by the operator. Within the airflow tube is arranged an electrically conductive wire at least between the grip handle and the open distal end, beyond which is provided an electrically grounding wire connected to the electrically conductive wire and drooping therefrom to be touchable to earth.
US09179807B2
A support for supporting a shower pan is provided. The support comprises an expanded polypropylene tray defining a cavity, an intermediate layer made of oriented strand board and disposed with the cavity, and a top layer made of expanded polystyrene foam disposed with the cavity and having a contoured top surface substantially matching the contoured underside of the shower pan.
US09179791B2
The disclosed retractable arms clothes hanger is designed to allow it to be easily inserted into and removed from the neck opening of a tee shirt, pullover, buttoned down shirt, or turtleneck sweater when its arms are retracted in the down position. Once inserted, the turning knob of the retractable arms clothes hanger can be rotated so the arms can be extended into their rigid, upwardly extended position thereby preventing unnecessary garment stretching. By rotating the turning knob of the retractable arms clothes hanger in the opposite direction, the arms of the retractable arms clothes hanger can be retracted back to its down position. The retractable arms clothes hanger with its arms in the down position can be easily and conveniently stored when not in use. The arms of the retractable arms clothes hanger can be fully adjusted to correspond to the proper angle of any type of garment.
US09179790B2
The invention relates to a household linen for a double bed with two elongated panels (2.3) that: are linked in at least one region, called the foot, (Rp) intended to be located at the foot end of the bed, are free relative to each other on the major portion of their length up to a head edge (Bt) located opposite the foot region (Rp) and partly overlap at a central longitudinal region (Rm) of the linen, so that the width (Il) of the linen is less than the sum of the width (Ip) of the two panels (2,3), the middle region extending between the foot region (Rp) and the head edges (Bt), characterized in that each overlapping region (Rc) of each panel (2,3) is separated from the foot region by a cut-out (15) substantially transverse to a longitudinal axis of the household linen (M).
US09179785B2
A self-deployable device for a child (1), comprising an arcuate structure (110, 120) adapted to support at least one flexible material wall (20) defining a space for receiving a child and at least four stiffener bars (201, 201′) for countering pressing down on the arcuate structure. For at least one of said bars, only one end (211, 211′) of the two ends of the bar is fastened to the arcuate structure by a fixed connection so that said bar may remain connected to the arcuate structure when said structure goes from the folded state to the deployed state and/or vice-versa.
US09179777B2
A method of assembling a chair component includes providing a support component adapted to support a portion of a seated user and including at least one aperture, providing a cover including a plurality of sides that cooperate to form an interior space, and including at least one coupler, positioning the support component within the interior space of the cover such that the at least one coupler is positioned within the at least one aperture, providing a securing member, and attaching the securing member to the support component such that the at least one coupler is held within the at least one aperture by the securing member.
US09179775B2
The invention relates to a monitor supporting module including: two supporting stands fixed to a placing space, two fixing stands disposed on the rear of a flat panel display, two guide bars and two guide rails. The setting positions of the guide bars are corresponding to the guide rails. Each guide rail includes a notch, a first horizontal guide section, a vertical guide section and a second horizontal guide section. Each guide bar is guided to a corresponding notch through its protruded end edge and slides through the guide sections for completing the installation. The guide rails are respectively formed on corresponding supporting stands, and the guide bars are protruded from one side of corresponding fixing stands. Or, the guide bars are respectively disposed on corresponding supporting stands and the guide rails are formed on corresponding fixing stands.
