US08089811B2
Flash memory devices include a first memory cell string including a plurality of serially-connected memory cells and first and second serially-connected dummy transistors configured to couple the serially-connected memory cells to a bit line and a second memory cell string including a plurality of serially-connected memory cells and first and second serially-connected dummy transistors configured to couple the serially-connected memory cells to the bit line. The first dummy memory cells of the first and second memory cell strings have gates connected in common to a first dummy word line and have different threshold voltages and the second dummy memory cells of the first and second memory cell strings have gates connected in common to a second dummy bit line and have different threshold voltages. In some embodiments, the first dummy memory cell of the first memory cell string and the second dummy memory cell of the second memory cell string may have threshold voltages greater than a predetermined voltage and the second dummy memory cell of the first memory cell string and the first dummy memory cell of the second memory cell string may have threshold voltages less than the predetermined voltage.
US08089808B2
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory including a memory cell array of memory cells arranged in a matrix, each of which includes a selective transistor and a memory cell transistor; the first column decoder for controlling the potentials of the bit lines and the source lines; the first row decoder for controlling the potential of the first word lines; the second row decoder for controlling the potential of the second word lines; and the second column decoder. The first column decoder includes a circuit whose withstand voltage is lower than the first row decoder and the second column decoder, and the second row decoder includes a circuit whose withstand voltage is lower than the first row decoder and the second column decoder.
US08089802B2
Disclosed is a memory device including a memory layer retaining information thereon based on a magnetization state of a magnetic body, a fixed-magnetization layer having a fixed-magnetization direction formed on the memory layer through a non-magnetic layer, and two metal wiring lines formed adjacent to both ends of the fixed-magnetization layer. In the memory, the magnetization direction of the memory layer is changed by passing an electric current therethrough in a stacked direction to record the information on the memory layer.
US08089799B2
The present invention provides a semiconductor device including a memory that has a memory cell array including a plurality of memory cells, a control circuit that controls the memory, and an antenna, where the memory cell array has a plurality of bit lines extending in a first direction and a plurality of word lines extending in a second direction different from the first direction, and each of the plurality of memory cells has an organic compound layer provided between the bit line and the word line. Data is written by applying optical or electric action to the organic compound layer.
US08089798B2
A method for operating a one-time programmable read-only memory (OTP-ROM) is provided. The OTP-ROM comprises a first gate and a second gate respectively disposed on a gate dielectric layer between a first doped region and a second doped region on a substrate, wherein the first gate is adjacent to the first doped region and coupled to the first doped region, the second gate is adjacent to the second doped region, the first gate is electrically coupled grounded, and the OTP-ROM is programmed through a breakdown effect. The method comprises a step of programming the OTP-ROM under the conditions that a voltage of the second doped region is higher than a voltage of the first doped region, the voltage of the second gate is higher than a threshold voltage to pass the voltage of the second doped region, and the first doped region and the substrate are at a reference voltage.
US08089797B2
A memory cell includes: a memory cell array unit having a plurality of nano wires arranged vertically on a substrate, each of the plurality of nano wires having a plurality of domains for storing information; a nano wire selection unit formed on the substrate and configured to select at least one of the plurality of nano wires; a domain movement control unit formed on the substrate and configured to control a domain movement operation with respect to at least one of the plurality of nano wires; and a read/write control unit formed on the substrate and configured to control at least one of a read operation and a write operation with respect to at least one of the plurality of nano wires.
US08089795B2
A memory module, which includes at least one memory stack, comprises a plurality of DRAM integrated circuits and an interface circuit. The interface circuit interfaces the memory stack to a host system so as to operate the memory stack as a single DRAM integrated circuit. In other embodiments, a memory module includes at least one memory stack and a buffer integrated circuit. The buffer integrated circuit, coupled to a host system, interfaces the memory stack to the host system so to operate the memory stack as at least two DRAM integrated circuits. In yet other embodiments, an interface circuit maps virtual addresses from the host system to physical addresses of the DRAM integrated circuits in a linear manner. In a further embodiment, the interface circuit maps one or more banks of virtual addresses from the host system to a single one of the DRAM integrated circuits. In yet other embodiments, the buffer circuit interfaces the memory stack to the host system for transforming one or more physical parameters between the DRAM integrated circuits and the host system. In still other embodiments, the buffer circuit interfaces the memory stack to the host system for configuring one or more of the DRAM integrated circuits in the memory stack. Neither the patentee nor the USPTO intends for details set forth in the abstract to constitute limitations to claims not explicitly reciting those details.
US08089794B1
A method may include selectively coupling a result line to a reference node in response to a compare data value being applied to a plurality of compare cell circuits; precharging the result line to the precharge potential by enabling a first precharge path while the compare data value is being applied; and after precharging the result line by enabling the first precharge path, disabling the first precharge path to place it in a high impedance state.
US08089793B1
A content addressable memory (CAM) cell includes a first storage element for storing a data value, a second storage element for storing the data value, and a compare circuit having first inputs to receive from the first storage element a first complementary data signal indicative of the data value, second inputs to receive from the second storage element a second complementary data signal indicative of the data value, third inputs to receive comparand data, and an output coupled to a match line. The CAM cell allows for simultaneous read and compare operations, as well as simultaneous refresh and compare operations.
US08089791B2
A compensation circuit and a compensation method for providing compensation of a power converter are proposed. A current sense circuit is coupled to receive a switching current for generating a current signal. A signal generation circuit is developed to generate a first compensation signal and a second compensation signal for adjusting the current signal. The first compensation signal is coupled to adjust the current signal for the output power limit of the power converter. The second compensation signal is coupled to adjust the current signal for the slope compensation. The slope of the first compensation signal is decreased when the power transistor is turned on. The slope of the second compensation signal is increased in response to the turn on of the power transistor.
US08089790B2
A power supply input device including a first resistance of a discharge resistance conversion unit connected in parallel to a discharge resistance unit; and a switching unit of the discharge resistance conversion unit connected to the first resistance and performing a switching operation according to an externally received control signal, thus minimizing power losses occurring when a system is in a standby mode.
US08089782B2
High accuracy average output current control scheme for power current converter in critical DCM is composed of the reference block to generate preset reference; the reference calculation block, based on the power current converter's power topology, the correspondent algorithm is calculated to convert the input reference into correspondent output; the state detecting block, the states of power current converter are detected and the detected signals are converted into the same signal format as one of output from reference calculation block; the error detector is used to detect the error between the outputs from reference calculation block and state detected block and to trigger power driver block to turn off the power switch in the power current converter as the error is cross over zero; the zero state detector is used to detect when the states of the power current converter are cross over zero and trigger power driver block to turn on the power switch in the power current converter; the power driver block is controlled with both the error detector and the zero state detector to drive the power switch in the power current converter; based on the correspondent algorithm, the output of power driver block may be used for synchronizing calculation.With the invented control scheme, it makes the accuracy of average output current of the power current converter independent of input and output voltages, circuit devices accuracy of the power current converter, and makes the average output current in high accuracy control, control scheme implement in simple and low cost.
US08089779B2
A data processing system with at least one mainboard is arranged in a computer housing and at least one daughter card that can be electrically connected to the mainboard by at least one riser card. A metal carrier sheet accommodates and supports the riser card and the daughter card and can be arranged together with the riser card and the daughter card in the computer housing. A metal carrier sheet includes a retaining bracket constructed to fix the riser card on the metal carrier sheet without screws. The metal carrier sheet further includes at least one angle bracket and at least one retaining bolt constructed to fix the daughter card without screws on the metal carrier sheet.
US08089775B2
Conductive or solder bumps are stacked between a mounted component such as a BGA device and a printed wiring substrate in a multileveled printed circuit board unit. An interposer or relay substrate is interposed between the adjacent stacked conductive bumps. The interposer substrate is made of a porous material. When any difference in the expansion is caused between the printed wiring substrate and the mounted component, one side of the interposer substrate receives a relatively smaller displacement force while the other side of the interposer substrate receives a relatively larger displacement force. A shearing stress is induced in the interposer substrate. Deformation of the porous material serves to absorb the shearing stress in the interposer substrate. The conductive bumps bonded on one side of the interposer substrate as well as the conductive bumps bonded on the other side of the interposer substrate may be relieved from a shearing stress. Accordingly, the durability of the conductive bumps can be improved. The conductive bumps are allowed to keep a stronger bonding in a longer duration.
US08089769B2
An improved smoke detector device comprising a base for mounting to a place on a ceiling or a wall via a mounting means; and a ring for removably attaching to the base, the ring comprising at least two modules that removably connect together via a connecting means to form the ring, wherein each module comprises an inner chamber and a door, the inner chamber of each module can hold an item, the door of each module can move between an open position and a closed position for respectively allowing and preventing access to the inner chamber of the module.
US08089768B2
The invention relates to a component arrangement. In at least one embodiment, the component arrangement comprises: an electronics module; a heat sink contacted by the electronics module; a printed circuit board, and; a fastening means for fastening the electronics module to the printed circuit board and to the heat sink. The electronics module has at least one elastic connecting limb for the solder-free contacting of the electronics module with the printed circuit board and has a location for the fastening means. The electronics module additionally comprises a decoupling means for decoupling the force of pressure between the connecting limb and the printed circuit board from the contact force between the heat sink and the electronics module. In at least one embodiment of the invention an electronics module is provided that can be used in the aforementioned component arrangement.
US08089763B2
A heat-dissipating assembly for a server includes a housing in which a partitioning plate and a power supply mounted on one side of the partitioning plate are provided. The power supply includes a casing and a power-supplying module received in the casing. The heat-dissipating assembly includes a fan received in the casing and located outside the power-supplying module. The partitioning plate and the casing are respectively provided with a plurality of first heat-dissipating holes and second heat-dissipating holes. The first heat-dissipating holes and the second heat-dissipating holes are positioned to correspond to the fan. The airflow caused by the fan drives the air inside the housing to flow out of the housing via the first heat-dissipating holes and the second heat-dissipating holes. In this way, the heat-dissipating efficiency can be improved without affecting the arrangement of other electronic devices in the housing.
US08089756B2
A fastener (35) includes a base (33), an orientation block (36), a located block (37) and two magnets (38, 39). The base includes a mounting portion (40) and a securing portion (50). The orientation block is slidably and rotatably connected to the securing portion. The located block is rotatably engaged in the mounting portion. One of the two magnets is disposed adjacent to the securing portion, the other magnet is disposed in the located block. The two magnets are attracted to each other configured for adjusting a distance between the orientation block and the located block.
US08089751B2
A portable memory device comprises a housing, a circuit board, and a covering member. The portable memory device is convenient to use since the plug of the memory device can be easily exposed or covered simply by a pulling or pushing action. Furthermore, no matter whether the portable memory device is in use or not, its rear end is always closed to prevent foreign objects from entering the housing and causing damage to the circuit board.
US08089748B2
An electronic device and a method for using the same are provided. The electronic device includes a first body, a torsion hinge, and a second body. The first body has a first magnetic component. The torsion hinge is slidably disposed on the first body. The second body is connected to the torsion hinge and has a second magnetic component. The second magnetic component magnetically attracts the first magnetic component when the torsion hinge is located at a first position, and enables the first body and the second body to be in a folded state. The second magnetic component separates from the first magnetic component, and the torsion hinge drives the second body to rotate relative to the first body when the torsion hinge leaves the first position, so as to enable the first body and the second body to be in an unfolded state.
US08089746B2
There are provided a microporous film for an electric storage device separator, which can increase energy density and power density when used in an electric storage device, and which is excellent in handling properties in a processing step to the electric storage device, as well as an electric storage device separator and an electric storage device, using the microporous film. Specifically, provided is a microporous film for an electric storage device separator, characterized by including a porosity of 70% or more, a strength of 40 MPa or more in a longitudinal direction, an average pore size of from 40 to 400 nm, anuclear pores, and exhibiting biaxial orientation.
US08089737B2
An arc fault circuit interrupter includes separable contacts, an operating mechanism and an arc fault detector structured to detect an arc fault condition operatively associated with the contacts. The arc fault detector includes a tuned current sensor structured to sense broadband noise of a current flowing through the contacts, a compression circuit including an input of the sensed broadband noise and an output. The compression circuit compresses the dynamic range of the sensed broadband noise. A minimum detector includes an input of the compression circuit output and an output of the minimum value of the minimum detector input. A processor includes a number of inputs and an output. One of the inputs is the output of the minimum value of the minimum detector. A trip mechanism cooperates with the output of the processor and the operating mechanism to trip open the contacts responsive to the detected arc fault condition.
US08089736B2
A driving device includes a motor, a first rotating portion, a second rotating portion, a piezoelectric assembly, and a controlling unit. The motor includes a rotating shaft. The first rotating portion is fixed to the rotating shaft. The second rotating portion is engaged with the first rotating portion. The piezoelectric assembly is sandwiched between the first rotating portion and the second rotating portion. The controlling unit is electrically connected to the motor and the piezoelectric assembly. The controlling unit is configured for storing a predetermined voltage, and determining whether an electric voltage output by the piezoelectric assembly is greater than or equal to the predetermined voltage and inactivating the motor if the electric voltage output by the piezoelectric assembly is greater than or equal to the predetermined voltage. A protection method for the driving device is also provided.
US08089733B2
A data storage device comprises a housing, a data storage medium within the housing and a head gimbal assembly including a suspension supporting a read/write head. The read/write head is configured to store and retrieve data on the data storage medium. The read/write head is operably positioned between the data storage medium and the housing. The device further includes a head-lift limiter protruding from the housing that limits a movement of the read/write head in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the data storage medium.
US08089725B2
According to one embodiment, a system comprises a magnetic pole having a media-facing end and a wrap around shield spaced from the magnetic pole, wherein the wrap around shield has a media-facing end positioned along three sides of the media-facing end of the magnetic pole and has inner, second, and middle regions separated by transitional regions. The inner region is closest to the media facing end of the magnetic pole, the second region is farthest from the media facing end of the magnetic pole, and the middle region is between the inner and second regions. A cross-sectional height of the inner region measured perpendicularly to the wrap around shield's media-facing end is less than a cross-sectional height of the second region, and a cross-sectional height of the middle region is greater than the cross-sectional height of the inner region and less than the cross-sectional height of the second region.
US08089718B2
A method and apparatus for improving the capacity of a hard disk drive is provided. In one embodiment, a portion of timing information is written to a first disk prior to coupling the first disk with a hard disk drive. The first disk is then coupled with the hard disk drive having a read element aligned with a write element on a head portion of a head gimbal assembly. The timing information is then provided to the read element during a writing of a set of servo track information on the disk, wherein the portion of timing information allows the read element to be aligned with the write element on the head during the writing of the set of servo track information.
US08089714B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a deterioration detection method of a head and a magnetic disk inspection apparatus in which the number of times of exchanging the head due to deterioration is decreased to improve the throughput of an inspection. In the present invention, a resistance value detecting circuit that is directly coupled to both terminals of an MR head is provided to measure the resistance value of the MR head, and the measured value is compared with the initial value of the exchanged head, so that it is possible to recognize a deterioration state of each head irrespective of a magnetic disk as a measurement target.
US08089708B2
A lens system has the following components in order from an object side: one negative lens component; a positive lens component; a negative lens component having a concave surface of a large curvature on an image side; an aperture stop; a negative lens component having a concave surface of a large curvature on the object side; and a positive lens component; the lens system satisfies a condition of the following expression: 0.75
US08089705B2
There is provided an objective lens for an optical pick-up. The objective lens includes a first surface on a light source side, and a second surface on an optical disc side. The first surface has a convex shape. The objective lens is formed to be a single-element lens having a numerical aperture of 0.75 or more. In this configuration, the objective lens satisfies a condition: 0.95<(n−1)·tan θmax<1.50 (1) where θmax represents a maximum angle of a normal to the first surface with respect to an optical axis in an effective diameter of the first surface, and n represents a refractive index of the objective lens.
US08089704B2
This invention provides an imaging lens assembly including, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens with positive refractive power having a convex object-side surface; a second lens with negative refractive power having a convex image-side surface; a third lens having a concave object-side surface and a convex image-side surface, at least one of both surfaces thereof being aspheric; a fourth lens having a concave image-side surface, at least one of both surfaces thereof having at least one inflection point; and an aperture stop disposed between an imaged object and the second lens; the on-axis spacing between the first lens and second lens is T12, the focal length of the imaging lens assembly is f, the Abbe number of the first lens and third lens is, V1 and V3, respectively, they satisfy the relations: 0.5<(T12/f)*100<20, 23
US08089703B2
Disclosed is a lens driving apparatus. The lens driving apparatus includes a base formed at a center thereof with a first opening; a housing coupled with the base and having a second opening corresponding to the first opening; a yoke installed on the base and including a horizontal plate having a third opening corresponding to the first opening and a vertical plate protruding upward from the horizontal plate; a bobbin movably installed in the yoke and coupled with a lens module; a coil fixedly disposed around the bobbin; a plurality of magnets provided at the vertical plate of the yoke to face the coil; and a spring installed on at least one of upper and lower portions of the yoke to return the bobbin, which has moved up due to interaction between the magnet and the coil, to its initial position.
US08089700B2
A zoom lens includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens unit having a negative refractive power, a second lens unit having a positive refractive power, the second lens unit including a positive lens, and a third lens unit having a positive refractive power. In the zoom lens, intervals between adjacent ones of the first lens unit, the second lens unit, and the third lens unit are variable during zooming. In the zoom lens, a refractive power of a material of the positive lens included in the second lens unit (Nd2P) and an Abbe number of the material of the positive lens included in the second lens unit (νd2P) satisfy the following conditions: Nd2P+0.01×νd2P>2.3 1.65
US08089695B2
A line head includes: a positive lens system having two lenses with positive refractive power; an image-side lens array in which the image-side lens of the two lenses is arrayed in a plural number in first and second directions; an object-side lens array in which the object-side lens of the two lenses is arrayed in a plural number in the first and second directions; a light emitter array in which a plurality of light-emitting elements are arrayed on an object side of the positive lens system for the one positive lens system; and an aperture plate that forms an aperture diaphragm disposed on the object side of the positive lens system so that an image side is telecentric or approximately telecentric. Assuming that the row number of lenses arrayed in the second direction of the image-side lens array is m, a gap between effective regions of the two image-side lenses adjacent to each other in the first direction is α, an image-side angle of aperture (half angle) of the positive lens system is θi, a width (full width) of a plurality of light-emitting element images in the first direction, which are images on image surfaces of the plurality of light-emitting elements arrayed for the one positive lens system, is Wi, a focal length of the image-side lens is f2, and a distance from an image-side principal plane of the image-side lens to the image surface is Si, the following conditions, f2≦(mWi−α)/(2θi), Wi≧2Siθi/(m−1)+α/(m−1), are satisfied.
US08089689B1
Apparatus and method for amplifying laser signals using segments of fibers of differing core diameters and/or differing cladding diameters to suppress amplified spontaneous emission and non-linear effects such as four-wave mixing (FWM), self-phase modulation, and stimulated Brillouin and/or Raman scattering (SBS/SRS). In some embodiments, different core sizes have different sideband spacings (spacing between the desired signal and wavelength-shifted lobes). Changing core sizes and providing phase mismatches prevent buildup of non-linear effects. Some embodiments further include a bandpass filter to remove signal other than the desired signal wavelength and/or a time gate to remove signal at times other than during the desired signal pulse. Some embodiments include photonic-crystal structures to define the core for the signal and/or the inner cladding for the pump. Some embodiments include an inner glass cladding to confine the signal in the core and an outer glass cladding to confine pump light in the inner cladding.
US08089685B2
An apparatus for forming an image using an electrophoretic particle suspension containing media including: a transitioner for sufficiently lowering a viscosity of the suspension to facilitate mobility of at least some of the electrophoretic particles; and, imaging electrodes for selectively providing an imaging electric field associated with the image to be formed and positioned with respect to the transitioner such that the imaging electric field impinges upon the lowered viscosity suspension; wherein, the imaging electric field is sufficient to cause select ones of the electrophoretic particles in the lowered viscosity suspension to migrate depending upon the image to be formed. The media includes a plurality of substrates defining an interior hollow including an electrophoretic particle containing, phase-transitional suspension suitable for enabling migration of the electrophoretic particles responsively to an applied electric field in a first state and substantially impeding migration of the particles in a second state.
US08089670B2
A method of forming a multidimensional upsampled table, which includes a plurality of upsampled contents and a plurality of upsampled columns and a plurality of upsampled rows, includes reading a multidimensional unsampled table having a plurality of unsampled content values. The multidimensional unsampled table has a plurality of unsampled columns and a plurality of unsampled rows. The multidimensional unsampled table is monotonic in the plurality of unsampled columns and is monotonic in the plurality of unsampled rows. The method further includes performing a Piecewise Cubic Hermite Interpolating Polynomial (PCHIP) interpolation to upsample the multidimensional unsampled table and to create the multidimensional upsampled table, and storing the multidimensional upsampled table. The PCHIP interpolation is independent of an order of interpolation direction.
US08089666B2
An image forming apparatus includes an upper cover attached to a main body, an image forming part provided in the main body and configured to record an image on a sheet, an image reading part having a document press member, and a lock mechanism. The upper cover is configured to be pivotable on a support axis with respect to the main body. The image reading part is slidably mounted on the upper cover. The document press member is configured to open and close with respect to a housing of the image reading part in a direction similar to a direction in which the upper cover opens and closes. The lock mechanism is configured to prevent the document press member from opening over a slidable range of the image reading part when the upper cover is opened.
US08089664B2
An image reading device according to one aspect of the invention comprises: a conveying unit configured to convey a recording medium; a first transmissive portion having a first surface that allows the recording medium to pass the first surface; a second transmissive portion having a second surface on which a recording medium is allowed to be placed; an image reading unit comprising a line sensor extending in a first direction and movable on a second path, the second path continuously extending below the first transmissive portion and the second transmissive portion; and a driver configured to move the image reading unit on the second path. A relative distance between the line sensor and the first surface changes in the second path below the first transmissive portion. The recording medium can be read at positions having the relative distances different one another.
US08089650B2
A print shop includes at least one printing device adapted to print a print job. A central computer is in communication with the printing device. An offline finishing device includes a reader device, adapted to read a job identifier carried on the print job, and a wireless transceiver in communication with the reader device and a central computer wireless transceiver.
US08089648B2
An image forming apparatus capable of setting optimal print options for test prints of a primitive image and a method thereof. The image forming apparatus includes an image data processing part to create a plurality of test images by converting a primitive image according to a plurality of predetermined sets of print options, an image print part to print the plurality of test images created by the image processing part, a key input part to select one of the plurality of the printed test images, and a control part to set the print options of the selected test image using the key input part print options of the primitive image. Accordingly, the user need not separately set print options for more than one test print performed by more than one print job, since the optimal print options of the primitive image are set by comparing and selecting the test images pre-printed according to the different sets of print options.
US08089643B2
An information processing apparatus which converts input image data having a data format before conversion into image data having a data format after conversion is disclosed. The information processing apparatus includes a data format storing unit which stores processing capability information of the information processing apparatus and information of the data formats after conversion by correlating the processing capability information with the information of the data formats after conversion, a processing capability information determining unit which determines the processing capability information of the information processing apparatus, and a data format conversion controlling unit which converts the input image data having the data format before conversion into the image data having the data format after conversion based on the determined result by the processing capability information determining unit by referring to the data format storing unit.
US08089629B2
It is an object of the present invention to provide a fuel property detection apparatus that excels in durability and reliability and is capable of accurately detecting the biofuel concentration in a mixture of hydrocarbon fuel and biofuel with a compact and simple configuration. A fuel property sensor 22 includes a light-emitting device 28 and a light-receiving device 32, which detect the optical transmittance of a fuel in a fuel path 26; and a light-emitting device 36 and a position sensitive device 38, which detect the refractive index of the fuel. As the optical transmittance correlates with the RME concentration of the fuel, the RME concentration can be calculated from the detected optical transmittance. As the refractive index correlates with the cetane number of the fuel, the cetane number can be calculated from the detected refractive index. The optical transmittance is detected through the use of light within a wavelength range of 640 nm to 680 nm.
US08089622B2
A device for evaluating defects in the edge area of a wafer (6) is disclosed. The evaluation may also be performed automatically. In particular, the device includes three cameras (25, 26, 27), each provided with an objective (30), wherein a first camera (25) is arranged such that the first camera (25) is opposite to an edge area on the upper surface (6a) of the wafer (6), wherein a second camera (26) is arranged such that the second camera (26) is opposite to a front surface (6b) of the wafer (6), and wherein a third camera (27) is arranged such that the third camera (27) is opposite to an edge area on the lower surface (6c) of the wafer (6).
US08089621B2
A tilt sensor capable of detecting more diverse orientations is to be provided. The tilt sensor includes a light emitting element and a plurality of photodetectors, a rolling element, and a hollow portion that accommodates the rolling element so as to allow the rolling element to roll in all of x-, y-, and z-direction, and to locate the rolling element, according to a direction of the gravity, at one of detecting positions including a complete blocking position that inhibits light from the light emitting element from reaching any of the photodetectors, a plurality of partial blocking positions that inhibits the light from the light emitting element from reaching at least one but not all of the photodetectors, and a nonblocking position that permits the light from the light emitting element to reach all of the photodetectors, and two of the detecting positions are each located on a respective end portion of the hollow portion in the x-, y-, and z-direction.
US08089619B2
A manufacturing process of a microstructured optical fiber including a void-containing region, includes the steps of: drawing a microstructured optical fiber along a longitudinal direction from a heated preform, wherein the optical fiber is continuously advanced along the longitudinal direction; directing a radiation beam at a longitudinal position in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber so as to produce an interference pattern; detecting the interference pattern and producing at least one electrical detection signal corresponding to the interference pattern and including a plurality of signal fringe cycles; feeding the first detection signal into a first counter circuit; determining a first number of interference fringe increments in the plurality of signal wave fringe cycles of the at least one detection signal by using the first counter circuit; determining the outer diameter of the optical fiber, and controlling the microstructure of the optical fiber during advancement of the optical fiber. The step of controlling includes at least one step selected from: (a) controlling the first number of interference fringe increments within a reference number range of reference numbers of interference fringe increments, and (b) calculating a microstructure length value.
US08089617B2
According to one embodiment, a laser detection and ranging system includes a beam forming element that is optically coupled to a light source. The light source generates a light beam that is split by the beam forming element into multiple beamlets and directed toward a target. At least one of the beamlets are reflected from the target as backscattered light that is received by a detector that generates a signal indicative of a characteristic of the target.
US08089611B2
A vacuum system for an immersion exposure apparatus includes a flow passage connected to a vacuum source, and a separator provided on the flow passage. The separator separates any gas from a liquid sucked into the flow passage together with the gas.
US08089592B2
Disclosed is a full color liquid crystal display, including a lower substrate and an upper substrate facing each other, partition spacers uniformly arranged between the lower substrate and the upper substrate to form a plurality of spaces while maintaining a cell gap between the lower substrate and the upper substrate, a lower transparent electrode and an upper transparent electrode respectively provided to the lower substrate and the upper substrate in the spaces defined by the partition spacers so as to face each other, subpixels having liquid crystals which are able to reflect or absorb respective specific light wavelengths and which are separately received in the spaces defined by the partition spacers, a plurality of such subpixels constituting a single pixel to exhibit full color.
US08089589B2
A semi-transmissive-type liquid crystal display device is provided which is capable of preventing an electric erosion reaction between a reflective film made of Al (aluminum) or an Al alloy and a transparent electrode film made of ITO or a like (Indium Tin Oxide) and of inhibiting occurrence of a flicker caused by a residual DC (Direct Current) voltage in the reflective film. In the semi-transmissive-type of a liquid crystal display device, a transmissive region to provide light from a backlight source and a reflective region to receive ambient light are placed in a pixel region and a transparent electrode film is formed above a reflective film formed in the reflective region on an active matrix substrate with a second passivation film being interposed between the reflective film and the transparent electrode film.
US08089587B2
A display device has a display panel having a first substrate for displaying an image that is observed from a front surface of the first substrate. A translucent substrate covers the display panel from the front surface of the first substrate. The translucent substrate has a rear surface and a first light shielding portion on a periphery of the rear surface. A photo-curable translucent adhesive integrally bonds a front surface of the first substrate and the rear surface of the translucent substrate to each other. A first light reflecting portion is formed on the first light shielding portion of the translucent substrate. A second light reflecting portion is formed on a surface of the first substrate so as to oppose the first light reflecting portion through the photo-curable translucent adhesive.
US08089586B2
A display has color pixels that can be controlled to show color images. Differences in electric fields in different color pixels having color filters with different dielectric constants can be compensated by providing electrodes with different patterns for the different color pixels. For example, the electrodes can have slits in which the widths of the slits can be different for pixels having different colors.
US08089576B2
A liquid crystal display module includes: a liquid crystal display panel; a backlight unit under the liquid crystal display panel, the backlight unit having at least one guide terminal facing side surfaces of the liquid crystal display panel; a main frame supporting the liquid crystal display panel and the backlight unit; a bottom frame combined with the main frame to surround the backlight unit; and a top frame combined with the main frame to cover upper edge portions of the liquid crystal display panel.
US08089567B2
The dimensions of a viewing screen are altered to fit the aspect ratio of video being displayed on the viewing screen. A viewing screen includes screen covers which may be displaced horizontally along the viewing screen. If a different aspect ratio video is being displayed, the screen covers are moved horizontally to increase or decrease the viewing area of the viewing screen. The video is then optically resized and shifted to fit the height or width of the screen.
US08089563B2
Techniques for generating a storyboard are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention the storyboard is comprised of videos from one or more cameras based on the identification of activity in the video. Various embodiments of the invention include an assessment of the importance of the activity, the creation of a storyboard presentation based on importance and interaction techniques for seeing more details or alternate views of the video. In one embodiment, motion detection is used to determine activity in one or more synchronized video streams. Periods of activity are recognized and assigned importance assessments based on the activity, important locations in the video streams, and events from other sensors. In different embodiments, the interface consists of a storyboard and a map.
US08089556B2
A method for driving a flat display is disclosed. Each row of the flat display includes N pixels, that is used to display M pixel data in a row of a image frame, wherein M and N are positive integers and M is larger than N. The method includes, in a first time division, the N pixels display N pixel data out of the M pixel data, and in a second time division, the N pixels display the remaining M-N pixel data.
US08089554B2
This invention makes shot image data match dust correction data as much as possible even when the dust adhesion state changes. An image capturing apparatus includes an image capturing unit which photo-electrically converts, by an image sensor, an object image formed by a photographing lens to generate an image signal, a foreign substance information detection unit which detects, based on the image signal, foreign substance information serving as information on at least the position of a foreign substance adhering to an optical element placed in front of the image sensor, and an association unit which associates an image signal with foreign substance information, and associates foreign substance information detected by the foreign substance information detection unit not only with an image signal obtained after detecting the foreign substance information, but also with even an image signal obtained before detecting the foreign substance information.
US08089541B2
High-resolution AD conversion can be performed at a high speed in a CMOS image sensor in which column-parallel ADCs are mounted. In a CMOS image sensor 10 in which column-parallel ADCs are mounted, reference voltages Vref1 to Vref4 having slopes with different gradients and a reference voltage Vref5 are used. Additionally, a comparison circuit 32 that compares an output voltage Vx of a unit pixel 11 with any one of the reference voltages Vref1 to Vref4, and a comparison circuit 33 that compares the one of the reference voltages Vref1 to Vref4 with the reference voltage Vref5 are included in a column processing circuit 15. High-resolution AD conversion is performed at a high speed by respective operations of the comparison circuits 32 and 33 and an up/down counter 34.
US08089539B2
A characteristic detecting unit detects characteristics of a digital imaged signal at every phase shift interval set in advance. A timing adjustment unit gives a phase adjustment instruction of a pulse so as to converge to an imaging phase in the digital imaged signal at which the characteristics are a predetermined value or within a predetermined range. A shift interval switching unit switches the phase shift interval according to photographing conditions of an imaging element.
US08089535B2
In image processing device, a basic coordinate system corresponding to arrangement directions of the pixel in the two-dimensional image sensor is transformed to a virtual coordinate system corresponding to an arrangement rule of the filters of each of the wavelength components, position calculation processing for image processing containing an aberration correction in the virtual coordinate system corresponding to each of the wavelength components is executed to determine coordinates in the virtual coordinate system, and the coordinates in the virtual coordinate system obtained by the position calculating unit are transformed to coordinates in the basic coordinate system.
US08089523B2
Disclosed is an image pickup apparatus comprising: an image pickup section to pick up a subject image; and a central processing section to perform processing of arbitrarily setting at least one automatic photographing condition among a plurality of kinds of automatic photographing conditions, judging whether “the set automatic photographing condition” is satisfied or not, and instructing the image pickup section to pick up a recording subject image when “the set automatic photographing condition” is judged to be satisfied.
US08089518B2
A system and method for automatically and optically capturing an image in a handheld image capture device. The system includes an imager and an actuated mounting mechanism attached to the imager. The imager has one or more degrees of freedom (DOF) and includes at least one of a pan DOF, a tilt DOF, and a rotate DOF. In certain embodiments, the device can auto-center a selected object of interest in the image frame, auto-zoom in on the selected object of interest, and/or auto-rotate the captured image. The method includes providing an imager having a pan degree of freedom (DOF) and a tilt DOF, capturing an image by the imager to produce an image frame, selecting an object of interest from the captured image, and auto-centering the selected object in the image frame using one or both of the pan DOF and the tilt DOF.
US08089515B2
The invention concerns an electronic device equipped with a video imaging process capability, which device includes a camera unit arranged to produce image frames from an imaging view which includes a region-of-interest ROI, an adjustable optics arranged in connection with the camera unit in order to focus the ROI on the camera unit, an identifier unit in order to identify a ROI from the image frame, a tracking unit in order to track the ROI from the image frames during the video imaging process and an auto-focus unit arranged to analyze the ROI on the basis of the tracking results provided by the tracking unit in order to adjust the optics. The device is arranged to determine the spatial position of the ROI in the produced image frame without any estimation measures.
US08089509B2
A video imaging system with a camera coupled to a camera control unit, the camera having a program stored thereon and the camera control unit comparing the program version stored on the camera with another version of the program such that the newer version of the program is loaded onto the camera control unit and camera control unit is programmed with the newer version of the program to enable the camera control unit to process image data received from the camera.
US08089504B2
A mobile data and/or communication terminal is provided which includes an optical system for the generation of a projected display as well as parts for stabilizing the display when the terminal is moved.
US08089500B2
An optical scanning device cover, covering an upper portion of an optical scanning device, includes an exposure window, a close stopper, an open stopper, and a rotation cam plate. A projection to be held in a link portion of a rotation cam is fixedly provided on a shutter. When the rotation cam is rotated in a direction of an arrow R(1) from a state in which the shutter is closed, A-side of the shutter turns until the shutter comes into contact with the open stopper to open that side of shutter, and thereafter, the B-side of the shutter turns to open that side of the shutter.
US08089498B2
A surface-emission laser array comprises a plurality of surface-emission laser diode elements arranged in the form of a two-dimensional array, wherein a plurality of straight lines drawn perpendicularly to a straight line extending in a first direction from respective centers of the plurality of surface emission laser diode elements aligned in a second direction crossing the first direction, are formed with generally equal interval in the first direction.
US08089492B2
A method of displaying colors for selection by a user in which a range of first color attributes (e.g. hue) is displayed in a first linear selection bar. The first color attributes varying along the length of the first selection bar. The method further comprising displaying a range of second color attributes (e.g. saturation and brightness) in a second linear selection bar. The second color attributes varying along the length of the second selection bar. A method for selecting colors in which a color from under the pointer is selected as soon as it has been left in the same position for a predetermined period of time.
US08089490B2
A plurality of one-port split lookup tables having alternately stored therein correction data corresponding to input data is provided as a lookup table that has stored therein the correction data corresponding to the input data at predetermined intervals relevant to predetermined higher-order bits. An address generating unit generates addresses for a plurality of the corresponding split lookup tables from the input data. An interpolation arithmetic unit executes interpolation arithmetic with the use of lower-order bits of the input data for readout data read from two lookup tables.
US08089483B2
Provided is a game machine for realizing, by relatively simple processing, an execution of predetermined game processing based on how a region of interest in a virtual three-dimensional space is displayed on a game screen (such as the size, or the position within the game screen). The present invention relates to a game machine which generates a game screen showing a scene of the three-dimensional space viewed from a given viewpoint by transforming coordinates of an object placed in the virtual three-dimensional space into a screen coordinate system by using a predetermined coordinate transformation calculation. A reference point storage unit (56) stores coordinate values of one or more reference points set in relation to the region of interest within the virtual three-dimensional space. A coordinate value acquiring unit (58) transforms the coordinate values of the one or more reference points into the screen coordinate system by using the predetermined coordinate transformation calculation, and acquires the coordinate values in the screen coordinate system of the one or more reference points. A game processing executing unit (62) executes the predetermined game processing based on the coordinate values acquired by the coordinate value acquiring unit (58).
US08089482B1
An assortment of color elements is grouped within a plurality of color families which are organized in accordance with a bi-radial circular color chart (FIG. 10-A) and a columnar chart (FIG. 11-A). Except for the neutral-gray color family, a pair of boundary-hues respectively defines the extent of acceptable hue variation within each group, resulting in an included range of hue within each color family, and an excluded range of hue in between neighboring color families. A color map (FIG. 17-A) serves as an index for matching system color elements to various color media and mixing formulas. Variant-hue charts enhance color comparison and selection within each main color family by displaying variations of all three color attributes, that is, value, saturation, and hue, within a single chart. Variant-hue charts also consolidate color elements into a compact format, and provide a graphical user interface for computer color selection.
US08089463B2
A chargeable wireless mouse includes a mouse body, a chargeable battery, a charging slot and a wireless signal receiver. A magnetic element and an electricity conducting structure are disposed within the charging slot. The wireless signal receiver includes a USB connecting part and a charging plate member. The wireless signal receiver is connected with a computer host via a USB connecting port. When the wireless signal receiver is accommodated within the charging slot, the metallic plate member is magnetically attracted by the magnetic element and the wireless signal receiver is clamped by the electricity conducting structure, so that the wireless signal receiver is fixed in the charging slot. At the same time, the charging plate member is contacted with the conducting member such that electricity is transmitted to charge the chargeable battery.
US08089451B2
A display device and an electronic apparatus equipped with such a display device are provided. The display device includes a liquid crystal display that displays an image; normal-illumination LEDs that emit illumination light and a partial-illumination LED that emits illumination light; a light guide unit having a first incidence surface and a second incidence surface, and configured to optically guide the illumination light received by the first incidence surface to the entire surface of the liquid crystal display and to optically guide the illumination light received by the second incidence surface to a predetermined region having the same aspect ratio as the liquid crystal display; and a switch button used for switching the size of the image displayed on the liquid crystal display to the size corresponding to the entire surface or the size corresponding to the predetermined region.
US08089446B2
Disclosed is a display device, including: a display substrate which comprises a gate line and a data line and a gate driving unit which is coupled to the gate line of the display substrate and outputs a gate signal. The gate driving unit is comprised of a shift register that includes a plurality of stages. At least one of the stages comprises a first drive controller that generates a first control signal by a carry signal applied from a previous stage, a second drive controller that generates a second control signal by a reset signal applied from a subsequent stage, a first drive unit that outputs the reset signal and the carry signal to the previous stage and the following stage, respectively by the first control signal and the second signal, and a second drive unit that outputs the gate signal to the gate line by the first control signal and the second signal.
US08089441B2
A driving section for a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel not requiring color filters supplies the LCD panel with a plurality of first image signals based on an original image signal during a plurality of first, equal-length field intervals of a frame and also provides a second image signal for enhancing luminance during a second field interval that is longer than the first time interval. The 4-field driving method supplies RGBW data so that the field time interval for a white data is assured thereby improving response speed, charging ratio and transmittance of the liquid crystal molecules.
US08089440B2
A flat panel liquid crystal display has a front plate and a rear plate with a layer of liquid crystal material maintained in a cavity between them. A thin film transistor array layer is disposed in the cavity, as is an integral heater with a grid of intersecting sets of horizontal and vertical conductors. The heating capacity of the heater is predeterminably set by selectively interrupting continuity of at least some of the intersecting conductors. In some embodiments, the discontinuities occur in only one set of the intersecting conductors.
US08089439B2
A liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate and a second substrate with a liquid crystal layer therebetween, a seal material joining the first substrate and the second substrate to each other, a plurality of gate signal lines and a plurality of drain signal lines, wherein the gate signal lines and the drain signal lines being formed on the first substrate, and a plurality of drive circuits connected to the first substrate. Data transmission signal lines are formed on the first substrate, wherein the data transmission signal lines are connected electrically between the drive circuits, and at least a part of at least one of the data transmission signal lines is positioned between the seal material and the first substrate.
US08089435B2
An LCD and a display panel thereof are provided. A common voltage generation circuit of the display panel is electrically connected to at least one pixel in a non-active pixels region. According to the display voltage at a drain of a TFT in the pixel, an average of display voltages of positive and negative polarities is obtained in two frame times. The average value is regarded as a common voltage supplied to every pixel in an active pixel region in the display panel. Thereby, the problem of a drift of a feed-through voltage (ΔVD) of a scan voltage due to an RC delay of a parasitic-capacitance and a parasitic-resistance on the scan line can be avoided. Further, the gray-level accuracy of every pixel in the active pixel region can be improved, and the flicker-noise of the display-panel can be reduced, thus significantly promoting the display quality of the LCD.
US08089431B2
The present invention provides a various methods, systems and devices for controlling light modulating elements and/or spatial light modulators. In some embodiments of the present invention, a recursive feedback method is used to control light modulating elements and/or spatial light modulators.
US08089429B2
A drive section sequentially supplies respective scanning lines with a control signal and supplies respective signal lines with a video signal to carry out a correction operation for holding a voltage equivalent to a threshold voltage of a drive transistor in a holding capacitance, and subsequently performs a write operation for writing the video signal in the holding capacitance, and before the correction operation, the drive section switches potentials at the bias line and adds a coupling voltage to one current terminal of the drive transistor via an auxiliary capacitance to carry out a preparation operation for an initialization to set a potential difference between a control terminal and the one current terminal of the drive transistor larger than the threshold voltage.
US08089427B2
The invention provides display control circuits for Vacuum Fluorescent Displays (VFDs). The display control circuit controls a plurality of display units of the VFD and comprises an image signal generator generating a plurality of image signals, a clock signal generator generating a clock signal, and a plurality of control signal generators. Each control signal generator receives one of the image signals and the clock signal, generates a control signal for one of the display unit, and determines the duty cycle of the control signal according to the received image signal and the clock signal. The brightness of one display unit varies with the duty cycles of the corresponding control signal. The clock signal generator comprises a plurality of flip-flops coupled in series and a plurality of logic gates.
US08089420B2
A communications system is provided, which includes a radome having a top portion, a bottom portion, a flanged mating area joining the top and bottom portion, and a means for lifting the radome at the flanged mating area. Methods of using are also disclosed.
US08089414B2
An electrical device comprises a bezel frame that is configured to fit within a faceplate. The bezel frame includes an antenna element. The electrical device further comprises a radio frequency circuitry component in electrical communication with the antenna element and configured to receive a control signal from the antenna element and a housing, which includes a housing cover. The housing cover is located between the antenna element and the radio frequency circuitry component. The electrical device further comprises one or more connectors configured to place the antenna element and the radio frequency circuitry component in electrical communication. The one or more connectors protrude through the housing cover.
US08089392B2
Integration of ionospheric models in over the horizon radars (OTHR) is achieved with very little or substantially no change to existing coordinate registration systems or software by specifying a virtual transponder at a target location and generating a signal which appears to have emanated from a transponder at that location. A return path to said virtual transponder is ray-traced through the ionospheric model to produce propagation parameters; and an appropriately delayed virtual transponder signal is inserted into the receiver. The result produced at the receiver is used to perform coordinate registration for further received signals.
US08089386B2
For a conventional 2-conductor communication connection, which includes a sensor, a measurement transmitter and a control unit, an isolation unit is provided, which serves for transmission of digital signals, which are not transmitted by the measurement transmitter. Thus, in the case of a conventional 2-conductor communication connection, digital communication between the sensor and the control unit becomes possible.
US08089381B2
An all-optical combined serial-to-parallel and digital-to-analog convertor using standard WDM technology is realized. The system is based on bit interleaving and cross-gain modulation (XGM) in a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA). The optical system can operate on multiple-bit digital words at a very high bit rate. The analog output forms series of pulses with the amplitude of each pulse taking one of the eight discrete values. A low pass filter may be used to turn this bit stream into a continuous waveform, and thus arbitrary waveforms are generated. Unlike many current digital-to-analog converter designs, which double in size with each additional bit, the design presented here allows a linear growth in components, thus making higher bit systems practical.
US08089379B2
Techniques, apparatus and systems are described for performing variable length decoding. In one aspect, a variable length decoding apparatus includes a first computation unit to determine whether a symbol corresponding to an input data is included in an upper group or a lower group of a variable length code tree. Responsive to the determination, when the symbol corresponding to the input data is included in the lower group, the first computation unit detects look-up table information corresponding to a subgroup that includes the symbol corresponding to the input data within the lower group that includes multiple subgroups. The variable length decoding apparatus includes a second computation unit to detect the symbol corresponding to the input data by searching a look-up table corresponding to the look-up table information when the look-up table information is received from the first computation unit.
US08089369B2
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a check fixture for measuring the accessibility of a lower car seat anchor to a user installing a car seat, and methods thereof. One embodiment of a check fixture comprises a body having a rear end and a front end, the body defining a longitudinal axis. The front end comprises an anchor-engaging structure and the rear end comprises a force gauge interface. The fixture also comprises a flange at least partially circumferentially positioned around the body at a longitudinal position a distance from the front end. The flange includes a bearing surface substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the bearing surface sized and configured so that when the front end is moved into engagement with the anchor, the bearing surface engages the seating material adjacent the access aperture. The engagement of the flange with the seating material generates a reactive force.
US08089365B2
A wiper control method and a wiper control device which can stabilize wiping rhythm of a wiper while ensuring required wiping and smoothly respond to change of a rainfall situation are provided. An adhesion cycle of a raindrop adhering on a detection surface is detected, a current adhesion cycle to be the basis when determining an intermittence time of a wiper is determined based on the detected raindrop adhesion cycle, the wiper intermittence time is determined based on the current adhesion cycle, a raindrop adhesion cycle shorter than the current adhesion cycle is detected, and when the raindrop adhesion cycle shorter than the current adhesion cycle is detected a predetermined number of times, the current adhesion cycle is changed to a shorter adhesion cycle and the wiper intermittence time is determined based on the changed current adhesion cycle.
US08089362B2
A merchandise security kit includes a tag body, a first tack adapted to be removably attached to the tag body to form a first reusable hard tag that is limited to electronic article surveillance (EAS) capabilities, and a second tack adapted to be removably attached to the tag body to form a second reusable hard tag that is provided with both EAS and radio frequency identification (RFID) capabilities. The tag body comprises a security inlay that is disposed within a protective casing, the security inlay including an antenna and an EAS marker. The second tack comprises an enlarged head, a sharpened pin connected to the head and an integrated circuit (IC) chip embedded within the head. With the second tack attached to the tag body, the IC chip either conductively or reactively couples to the antenna in the tag body to provide the second hard tag with its RFID capabilities.
US08089345B2
A power and data delivery system for a machine. The system includes a conductor located throughout at least a portion of the machine for delivering power, a plurality of nodes, each connected to the conductor at a respective location, and a plurality of devices, each connected to a corresponding node. At least one node controls the delivery of power and data by way of a message containing a unique identifier for that one node.
US08089341B2
A management system manages use of management object provided in facilities by using an information storage medium of a user. An entrance management apparatus, provided in the vicinity of an entrance of the facilities, stores use permission information for permitting the use of the management object on an information storage medium when the user enters the facilities. In the facilities, a use management apparatus, provided for each management object, controls availability or unavailability of the management object based on the use permission information stored on the information storage medium. Additionally, the use management apparatus stores, in the information storage medium, use information showing that the management object is used. Further, a room leaving management apparatus, provided in the vicinity of an exit of the facilities, manages leaving of the user based on the use information stored on the information storage medium. When the user leaves the facilities, it is controlled whether or not the user can leave the facilities, and use history information is stored, based on the use information.
US08089333B2
The invention comprises an inductor mounting method and apparatus. An about annular inductor is mounted using a non-conducting clamp element passing at least into a center opening of the inductor. Mounting hardware forces the clamp element toward a mounting surface to edge mount the inductor, where the mounting hardware, non-conducting clamp element, and mounting surface minimally contact the inductor. The minimal contact allows greater surface area for liquid, convective, and/or radiative cooling of the inductor. The inductor is optionally composed of particles of magnetic material coated with carbon and embedded into an epoxy to yield a distributed gap material.
US08089321B2
Four stochastic resonators 20-1 to 20-4 outputting a pulse signal in accordance with a stochastic resonance phenomenon are unidirectionally coupled in a ring-like form to constitute a fluctuation oscillator 10. When a signal output from each of the stochastic resonators 20-1 to 20-4 is successively transmitted in the stochastic resonators 20-1 to 20-4 coupled in a ring-like form, the output timings at each stochastic resonator 20 are synchronized with each other due to a cooperation phenomenon between the stochastic resonators 20-1 to 20-4, so that each stochastic resonator 20 is self-excited to oscillate at a constant period of time.
US08089315B2
A programmable gain amplifier comprising alternatively selectable parallel circuits in a front end and independently selectable serial amplification circuits in a back end. The front end may include, for example, a plurality of transconductors in parallel and each configured to generate a current proportional to a received voltage. A ratio of the generated current to the received voltage being different for each of the transconductors. The back end is configured to receive an output of a selected member of the parallel circuits and may include a plurality of current or voltage mode amplifiers in series. For example, the back end may include a plurality of current-mode gain stages and switches configured to control which of the current-mode gain stages are used to amplify the output of the front end. The programmable gain amplifier may be used between a signal receiver and an analog to digital converter.
US08089300B2
Some embodiments of the invention provide a configurable integrated circuit (“IC”). The configurable IC includes a set of configurable logic circuits for configurably performing a set of functions. The configurable IC also includes a set of configurable routing circuits for routing signals to and from the configurable circuits. During several operational cycles of the configurable IC, a set of data registers are defined by the configurable routing circuits. These data registers may be used wherever a flip-flop can be used.
US08089295B2
Embodiments of the invention provide methods, systems and apparatus for testing electronic components, and more specifically for testing magnetoresistive heads. A pair of top shield pads and a pair of bottom shield pads may be formed in a kerf region of a wafer on which magnetoresistive heads are formed. The top shield pads, bottom shield pads, and a magnetoresistive head may form a circuit that may be coupled with a testing circuit to exchange test signals configured to test the magnetic head. The pair of bottom shield pads may provide balanced impedance to substrate that nullifies the effects of broadband noise.
US08089290B2
A measurement circuit that has particular application for detecting a high impedance measurement signal from a liquid water sensor. The measurement circuit includes a high impedance resistance-to-frequency conversion circuit that is coupled to the sensor and receives a resistance signal therefrom. The resistance-to-frequency conversion circuit includes an oscillator that converts the resistance signal to a representative frequency. The measurement circuit also includes a frequency-to-voltage conversion circuit that receives the frequency signal from the resistance-to-frequency conversion circuit, and converts the frequency signal to a representative voltage that provides an indication of water on the sensor.
US08089288B1
A method and apparatus for capacitance sensing uses an offset feedback voltage to linearize a charge-transfer characteristic.
US08089285B2
A method and tamper resistant circuit for resisting tampering including reverse engineering in a semiconductor chip, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides are provided. A sensing device for detecting a chip tampering state is formed with the semiconductor chip including the circuitry to be protected. A tamper resistant control signal generator is coupled to the sensing unit for generating a tamper resistant control signal responsive to a detected chip tampering state. A functional operation inhibit circuit is coupled to the tamper resistant control signal generator for inhibiting functional operation of the circuitry to be protected responsive to the tamper resistant control signal.
US08089284B2
An impedance measuring method uses an impedance measuring device for measuring an impedance of a measured electronic component, a coaxial connector electrically connected to the impedance measuring device, and a measurement substrate which can be housed in the coaxial connector. The coaxial connector has a center conductor and an outer conductor located outside the center conductor. The measurement substrate has an insulating substrate and first and second conductors each formed on a first principal surface of the insulating substrate. The measurement substrate with the measured electronic component being mounted on the first and second conductors is housed in the coaxial connector connected to the impedance measuring device, so as to electrically connect the first conductor to the center conductor and electrically connect the second conductor to the outer conductor. Then the impedance of the measured electronic component is measured by the impedance measuring device.
US08089280B2
In an MRI apparatus, an RF coil is provided which can generate or detect a circularly-polarized magnetic field with one feeding port, and which can radiate highly efficient, highly homogeneous electromagnetic waves and detect a highly sensitive, highly homogeneous magnetic resonance signal. For this purpose, the coil has a cylindrical shape, one feeding port which exchanges signals, plural first capacitors disposed at circumferential positions in at least one cross-section effectively orthogonal to the direction of the static magnetic field, and at least one second capacitor. In this RF coil, in which a static magnetic field is applied in essentially an identical direction to the direction of the central axis of the cylindrical shape, a second capacitor having a smaller capacity than the capacity of the first capacitor, is disposed at a position from 22.5° to 67.5° or 202.5° to 247.5° in a clockwise direction with respect to the center of the cylindrical shape from the feeding port in a cross-section viewed from a direction passing through the static magnetic field.
US08089279B2
A method is disclosed for operating a hybrid medical imaging unit including a first imaging device of relatively high spatial resolution and a second nuclear medicine imaging device of relatively high sensitivity that respectively acquire imaging measurement signals from a common examination volume. In an embodiment of the method, during the current measurement signal acquisition of the second imaging device, the continuously acquired measurement signals are used to determine a region in the examination volume in which a region referred measurement signal acquisition is subsequently performed by the first examination device with use of a region referred measurement protocol.
US08089276B2
A magnetic field sensor assembly has at least one magnetic field sensor integrated into a semiconductor chip and has at least one magnetic field source. The semiconductor chip and the at least one magnetic field source are arranged in an encapsulation material in a predetermined position relative to each other in such a way that a magnetic field generated by the magnetic field source is detectable with the aid of at least one magnetic field sensor. The magnetic field source is arranged in the semiconductor chip and/or in the plane of extension of the semiconductor chip laterally adjacent to said chip.
US08089272B2
An angle sensor for measuring angular parameters of a rotary member includes a shaft, a rotary disc being connected to the rotary member and rotatable about the shaft, a number of electromagnetic elements disposed on the rotary disc, a precision controller electrically connected to the rotary disc for selectively magnetizing the electromagnetic elements, a magnetic sensor configured for sensing the magnetic field of the magnetized electromagnetic elements and generating sensing signals every time a magnetized electromagnetic element passes under the magnetic sensor, a mounting plate configured for mounting the magnetic sensor, the mounting plate being fastened to the shaft, and a calculator electrically connected to the magnetic sensor for receiving the sensing signals, the calculator being configured for calculating the angular parameters of the rotary member according to the received sensing signals, a corresponding elapsed time and the angle between adjacent magnetized electromagnetic elements.
US08089260B2
A bandgap reference circuit provided for generating an output reference substantially independent of temperature and power includes a first reference signal generator, a first impedance, a second reference signal generator and a second impedance. The first reference signal generator can generate a first reference signal proportional to absolute temperature. The second reference signal generator generates a second reference signal complementary to absolute temperature according to the first reference signal. The second impedance, the serially-coupled first impedance and second reference signal generator, and the first reference signal generator are coupled in parallel between two nodes. The bandgap reference circuit outputs the output reference voltage through the two nodes. According to an embodiment of the invention, the bandgap reference circuit can be implemented by an additional circuit of lower complexity to obtain a lower reference voltage.
US08089253B2
Switched-mode power supplies (SMPSs) and their control methods for radio frequency (RF) power amplifiers in battery-powered wireless transmitter devices involve a Boost-type SMPS and a Buck-type SMPS in cascade connection which are controlled so that high efficiency is maintained for various loads and transmission power levels. The Boost SMPS and the Buck SMPS can be controlled based on the mode of operation of the transmitter, such as the actual battery voltage, the needed output power, the selected frequency band, the selected RF power amplifier (PA), the selected modulation method of the transmission signal, and/or the selected PA voltage control method, such as the envelope elimination and restoration (EER) technique, the envelope tracking (ET) technique, or the power-level tracking (PT) technique.
US08089251B2
The present disclosure provides a battery charging control circuit. The charging control circuit includes: a constant-current charging unit and a trickle charging unit. The charging control circuit further includes a branch switch, a control unit, and a detection unit. The branch switch is connected between a power source and the rechargeable battery for enabling or disabling the constant-current charging unit. The control unit is between the constant-current charging unit and the branch switch for controlling the branch switch. The detection unit is used to detect a state of the rechargeable battery. If the detection unit detects the state of the rechargeable battery is correspond to a predetermined state, then the control unit controls the branch switch to disable the constant-current charging unit and enable the trickle charging unit.
US08089250B2
A method for protecting a battery of an electronic device from overheating is provided. The method senses the temperature of the battery and conduct an unloading action when the temperature of the battery ascends to an unloading temperature. The method further halts the unloading action when the temperature of the battery descends to a lowest critical temperature, wherein the unloading temperature is not lower than the lowest critical temperature.
US08089247B2
A power autonomous portable electric tool set includes a first sub-unit generating a mechanical operation of a tool having an electric actuator, a portable second sub-unit forming an electric energy source of the set including a battery and at least one electric or electronic module located in a vicinity of the battery for at least one of controlling and managing the battery, a third charger sub-unit for electrically recharging the battery, including at least one electric supply source, wherein the third charger sub-unit adapts a voltage and a current of the at least one electric supply source to recharge the battery, and a cutoff device structured and arranged to cutoff an electric supply of the electric actuator. Additionally, the power autonomous portable electric tool set includes the first sub-unit electrically disconnectably connectable to the second sub-unit and the third sub-unit electrically disconnectably connectable to the second sub-unit.
US08089242B2
An electrical management device for a vehicle power supply that includes a single converter to minimize the number of components required to simultaneously control two energy sources, such as a photovoltaic source and a thermoelectric source, on board a motor vehicle that includes at least one electrical energy storage battery.
US08089235B2
An electric driver unit for an electric valve timing adjusting apparatus is disclosed. The electric driver unit includes: a motor for driving the apparatus; a switching part for applying a drive voltage to the motor; a current information output part for providing current information associated with a current flowing in the switching part; a power distribution control part for controlling power distribution to the motor by controlling the switching part; and an oil temperature information output part for providing oil temperature corresponding value, which depends on temperature of oil that surrounds the apparatus. The power distribution control part controls the current based on the current information so that the current stays below a target value. The target value includes a normal value and a large value. The power distribution control part adopts the large value as the target value until the oil temperature corresponding value reaches a predetermined temperature.
US08089231B2
The electric motor includes a coil array having a plurality of magnetic coils; a magnet array having a plurality of permanent magnets; a magnetic sensor outputting an output signal that changes in analog fashion depending on relative location of the magnet array and the coil array; a drive control circuit; and an output waveform correcting unit. The output waveform correcting unit corrects the waveform of the output signal of the magnetic sensor based on the voltage level of the output signal of the magnetic sensor, in such a way that the output signal of the magnetic sensor is shaped to prescribed waveform shape during operation of the electric motor.
US08089229B2
A motor driving system includes a storage unit, a driver, and a controller. The driver includes a first programmable logic device (PLD). The controller includes a second PLD. The storage unit stores a control program. The controller generates a first transmission data to the first PLD and a second transmission data to the second PLD according to the control program. The first PLD generates a first message packet including the first transmission data. The second PLC generates a second message packet including the second transmission data. The first and second PLDs communicate with each other using a full duplex transmission mode or a half duplex transmission mode.
US08089227B2
A toothbrush has a removable end cap at its free end area directed away from the bristles, which end cap closes off an inner space of a grip element. The end cap accommodates an electrical control element, in particular a potentiometer, which can be adjusted via an adjustment element arranged rotatably on the end cap. The toothbrush also comprises an electrical power consumption unit, in particular an electric motor, which is designed to set the bristles in vibration. The energy supply from an energy reservoir arranged in the interior to the electrical power consumption unit can be adjusted continuously by means of the control element, as a result of which the vibration intensity of the bristles can be steplessly adjusted.
US08089207B2
Solid state light emitting devices and/or solid state lighting devices use three or more phosphors excited by energy from a solid state source. The phosphors are selected and included in proportions such that the visible light output of such a device exhibits a radiation spectrum that approximates a black body radiation spectrum for the rated color temperature for the device, over at least a predetermined portion of the visible light spectrum.
US08089205B2
A wiring board has a substrate having a groove on its surface, a first wiring placed in the groove, a plurality of bonding members located at mutually separated positions and each of which bonds the first wiring and the substrate. A gap is located between the first wiring and the surface of the groove.
US08089198B2
A full range loudspeaker, comprising a frame with a membrane secured onto said frame and a piezoelectric actuator attached on said membrane and able to be driven over the full audible frequency range.
US08089194B2
An electrostatic acting device in which leakage of charge from an electret film is suppressed. The electrostatic acting device comprises a movable electrode section (20) having a movable electrode (22) and a fixed electrode section (10) having an electret film (12) opposed to the movable electrode section (20) at a predetermined distance and capable of storing charge and a conductive layer (13) formed on a predetermined region on the upper surface of the electret film (12). The conductive layer (13) is formed on the surface of a region of the electret film (12), and the region is projected.
US08089191B2
A method for controlling an electric machine includes measuring a motor control parameter or parameters and selectively positioning an adjustable member within the electric machine in response the motor control parameters. Selective positioning of the adjustable member varies the geometry of a flux path within the electric machine, thereby inducing a predetermined voltage output in the electric machine. An electric machine includes a rotor, a shaft operatively connected to the rotor to rotate in conjunction therewith, and a stator. An adjustable member is positioned between the rotor and the stator, and has a variable offset position that can be selected by an electronic control unit (ECU) and applied by an actuator to thereby vary the geometry of a flux path within the electric machine. The adjustable member can include a non-magnetic annular hub and magnetic radial arms and axial extensions.
US08089190B2
The present invention provides a rotor for an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor for driving an air blower, in which the structure of the rotor is suitably modified to reduce magnetic flux leakage and, at the same time, maximize saliency ratio, thus improving the performance of the motor.
US08089179B2
An electrical generation system utilizes a variable frequency generator operating in combination with a constant frequency generator. Also disclosed and claimed are an aircraft electrical architecture, and a gas turbine engine incorporating the above electrical generation system.
US08089178B2
A direct current to pulse amplitude modulated (“PAM”) current converter, denominated a “PAMCC”, is connected to an individual source of direct current. The PAMCC receives direct current and provides pulse amplitude modulated current at its three output terminals, wherein the current of each terminal is one hundred twenty degrees out of phase with the other two terminals. The pulses are produced at a high frequency relative to the signal modulated on a sequence of pulses. The signal modulated onto a sequence of pulses may represent portions of a lower frequency sine wave or other lower frequency waveform, including DC. When each phased output is connected in parallel with the outputs of similar PAMCCs an array of PAMCCs is formed, wherein each voltage phased output pulse is out of phase with respect to a corresponding current output pulse of the other PAMCCs. An array of PAMCCs constructed in accordance with the present invention form a distributed three-phase multiphase inverter whose combined output is the demodulated sum of the current pulse amplitude modulated by each PAMCC on each phase.
US08089171B2
A method for determining a rotor position of an electrical generator in a wind turbine is described comprising determining a voltage of the electrical generator, determining a rotor position angle estimate based on the voltage of the electrical generator, determining a subsequent rotor position angle estimate through a feedback loop, based on a combination of the voltage of the electrical generator and the rotor position angle estimate. Further, a method to real time track encoder health is described comprising determining the phase angle of a reference voltage, determining the angle difference between the rotor position and the reference voltage, and determining the differentiation of the angle difference.
US08089170B2
An apparatus includes a plurality of starter/generator subsystems connected in parallel to a voltage distribution bus and to an input power supply. Each of the subsystems includes a starter/generator unit (SGU) for providing torque for starting an engine when the apparatus is operated in an engine start mode, and for generating power when the apparatus is operated in a generator mode. In an embodiment, each subsystem includes a power conversion unit (PCU) connected to the respective SGU, and each PCU includes an inverter section for rectifying voltage generated by the SGU when the apparatus is operated in the generator mode and may provide AC excitation voltage to operate the SGU as a motor to support the engine start mode.
US08089169B2
A power control system of a vehicle has a battery, an alternator, and a battery condition detecting device. The device has detecting units detecting the battery current supplied to or discharged from the battery, the battery voltage and the battery temperature, a communicating unit receiving conditions of the alternator such as power generation ratio, generated voltage, alternator speed and failure information from the alternator through a communication line, and a malfunction judging unit judging, from the battery current, the battery voltage, the battery temperature and the conditions of the alternator, whether or not a malfunction has occurred in one of the alternator, the battery and the detecting units. In response to the judgment that a malfunction has occurred in one of the alternator, the battery and the detecting units, a notifying unit notifies the occurrence of the malfunction.
US08089167B2
A robotic gravity-powered generator includes two containers, one containing fluid with an inflatable bag and attached weight immersed in the fluid, and the second containing a generator. A pneumatic pump inflates the bag, permitting it to float to the top of the first container; the bag is then deflated, and moves down through the fluid due to the force of gravity. The movement of the bag up and down is converted to rotary force which operates the generator, thereby generating electricity.
US08089163B2
A semiconductor device production method including: the step of forming a stopper mask layer of a first metal on a semiconductor substrate, the stopper mask layer having an opening at a predetermined position thereof; the metal supplying step of supplying a second metal into the opening of the stopper mask layer to form a projection electrode of the second metal; and removing the stopper mask layer after the metal supplying step.
US08089160B2
An IC interconnect according to one embodiment includes a first via positioned in a dielectric and coupled to a high current device at one end; a buffer metal segment positioned in a dielectric and coupled to a top portion of the first via; and a plurality of second vias positioned in a dielectric and coupled to the buffer metal segment at a bottom end and to a metal power line at a top end thereof, wherein the first via is coupled to a first end of the buffer metal segment and the plurality of second vias are coupled to a second end of the buffer metal segment, such that the first via is horizontally off-set from all of the plurality of second vias, wherein the butter metal segment is substantially shorter in length than the metal power line.
US08089153B2
Method for eliminating loading effect using a via plug. According to an embodiment, the present invention provides a method of processing an integrated circuit wherein a loading effect is reduced. The method includes a step for providing a substrate, which is characterized by a first thickness. The method also includes a stop for forming an inter metal dielectric layer overlaying the substrate. The inter metal dielectric layer is characterized by a second thickness. The method additionally includes a step for forming a first photoresist layer overlaying the inter metal dielectric layer. The first photoresist layer is associated with a first pattern. Additionally, the method includes a step for forming a first opening positioned at least partially inside the inter metal dielectric layer. The first via opening is characterized by a first depth. The method additionally includes a step for removing the first photoresist layer. The method further includes a step for forming a via plug.
US08089147B2
An insulated metal substrate composite has a patterned conductive layer on one surface and receives one or more electrodes of MOSFETs or other die on the patterned segments which lead to the edge of the IMS. The outer periphery of the IMS is cupped or bent to form a shallow can with two or more die fixed to and thermally coupled to the flat web of the can while electrodes on the die surfaces thermally coupled to the web of the can lead to terminals on the rim of the can which are coplanar with the bottom surfaces of the die. The electrodes can be externally or internally connected to form a half bridge circuit.
US08089146B2
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor element mounted on a substrate; at least one electronic part arranged around the semiconductor element; and a heat radiation member bonded to a backside of the semiconductor element by a bonding material. The heat radiation member has an isolation part extending between an outer circumference of the semiconductor element and the electronic part.
US08089136B2
A semiconductor device of the invention has a plurality of resistor elements formed on an element isolating oxide film in predetermined regions on a surface of a semiconductor substrate. Active regions are furnished close to the resistor elements. This allows the element isolating oxide film near the resistor elements to be divided into suitable strips, forestalling a concave formation at the center of the element isolating oxide film upon polishing of the film by CMP and thereby enhancing dimensional accuracy of the resistor elements upon fabrication.
US08089132B2
A magnetic memory unit includes a tunneling barrier separating a free magnetic element and a reference magnetic element. A first phonon glass electron crystal layer is disposed on a side opposing the tunneling barrier of either the free magnetic element or the reference magnetic element. A second phonon glass electron crystal layer also be disposed on a side opposing the tunneling barrier of either the free magnetic element or the reference magnetic element to provide a Peltier effect on the free magnetic element and the reference magnetic element.
US08089127B2
A dual triggered silicon controlled rectifier (DTSCR) comprises: a semiconductor substrate; an N-well, a P-well, a first N+ diffusion region and a first P+ diffusion region, a second N+ diffusion region and a second P+ diffusion region, a third P+ diffusion region, positioned in one side of the DTSCR and across the N-well and the P-well; a third N+ diffusion region, positioned in another side of the DTSCR and across the N-well and the P-well; a first gate, positioned above the N-well between the second P+ diffusion region and the third P+ diffusion region, for use as a P-type trigger node to receive a first trigger current or a first trigger voltage; and a second gate, positioned above the P-well between the first N+ diffusion region and the third N+ diffusion region, for use as an N-type trigger node to receive a second trigger current or a second trigger voltage.
US08089125B2
An integrated circuit system includes an integrated circuit, forming a triode near the integrated circuit, and attaching a connector to the triode and the integrated circuit.
US08089121B2
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device includes a semiconductor layer as a channel, a conductive layer which is formed on a surface of the semiconductor layer with a first insulating layer and a second insulating layer interposed therebetween and functions as a control gate electrode; and a plurality of first charge storage layers formed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer. The plurality of first charge storage layers are formed in isolation from one another along a surface of the first insulating layer. The first insulating layer is formed so as to protrude towards the semiconductor layer at a position where each of the first charge storage layers is formed.
US08089119B2
A write and erase method of a semiconductor memory device includes a floating gate type transistor having a semiconductor substrate, a gate insulating film formed on the semiconductor substrate, a floating gate electrode formed on the gate insulating film, and a control gate electrode opposing the floating gate electrode with a hollow portion being sandwiched therebetween. A capacitance between the semiconductor substrate and the control gate electrode is controlled by one of an operation of forming, in the hollow portion, an electrical path which electrically connects the floating gate electrode and the control gate electrode, and an operation of eliminating the electrical path.
US08089111B2
A switchable resistive device has a multi-layer thin film structure interposed between an upper conductive electrode and a lower conductive electrode. The multi-layer thin film structure comprises a perovskite layer with one buffer layer on one side of the perovskite layer, or a perovskite layer with buffer layers on both sides of the perovskite layer. Reversible resistance changes are induced in the device under applied electrical pulses. The resistance changes of the device are retained after applied electric pulses. The functions of the buffer layer(s) added to the device include magnification of the resistance switching region, reduction of the pulse voltage needed to switch the device, protection of the device from being damaged by a large pulse shock, improvement of the temperature and radiation properties, and increased stability of the device allowing for multivalued memory applications.
US08089107B2
A three-dimensional integrated device includes at least two integrated circuit substrates laminated to each other, each of the integrated circuit substrates having at least one ground plane, at least one aperture provided at a desired location in the ground plane, the end of a microstrip line formed in a pair with the ground plane and placed in the aperture, and a transmitter and/or a receiver that is connected to the microstrip line and transmits and/or receives signals at a frequency substantially corresponding to the perimeter λ of the aperture. Each of the apertures in each of the integrated circuit substrates is superimposed on at least one of the apertures in the other integrated circuit substrates in the direction perpendicular to the ground planes, and the signals are transported in a contactless manner between the integrated circuit substrates through the apertures at a frequency substantially corresponding to the perimeter λ of the apertures.
US08089105B2
A method of forming a programmable fuse structure includes forming at least one shallow trench isolation (STI) in a substrate, fanning an e-fuse over the at least one STI and depositing an interlevel dielectric (ILD) layer over the e-fuse. Additionally, the method includes removing at least a portion of the at least one STI under the e-fuse to provide an air gap below a portion of the e-fuse and removing at least a portion of the ILD layer over the e-fuse to provide the air gap above the portion of the e-fuse.
US08089096B2
A normally-off type field effect transistor includes: a first semiconductor layer which is made of a first hexagonal crystal with 6 mm symmetry and has a main surface including a C-axis of the first hexagonal crystal; a second semiconductor layer which is formed on the main surface of the first semiconductor layer and is made of a second hexagonal crystal with 6 mm symmetry having a band gap different from a band gap of the first hexagonal crystal; and a gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode that are formed on the second semiconductor layer. Here, the film thickness of the first nitride semiconductor layer is 1.5 μm or less and the second semiconductor layer is doped with impurities at a dose of 1×1013 cm−2 or more.
US08089095B2
In one embodiment, a two terminal multi-channel ESD device is configured to include a zener diode and a plurality of P-N diodes. In another embodiment, the ESD devices has an asymmetrical characteristic.
US08089085B2
An LED assembly can include a heat sink base, at least one LED die attached to the heat sink base, and a lens. One or more layers of phosphor can be formed upon the lens. A heat sink, such as a finned heat sink, can attach the heat sink base to the lens. Heat from the LED die can flow through the heat sink base to the heat sink, from which the heat can be dissipated. Similarly, heat from phosphors can flow through the lens to the heat sink, from which the heat can be dissipated. By removing heat from the LED die, more current can be used to drive the LED die, thus providing brighter light. By removing heat from the phosphors, desired colors can be more reliably provided.
US08089078B2
A light emitting device includes: a first semiconductor region; a second semiconductor region and third semiconductor region which are provided in the first semiconductor region; a first semiconductor light emitting element of which first electrode is electrically connected to a main surface of the second semiconductor region; a second semiconductor light emitting element of which third electrode is electrically connected to a main surface of the third semiconductor region; and a conductor which electrically connects the second electrode of the first semiconductor light emitting element and the third semiconductor region, and which electrically connects the second electrode and the third electrode through the third semiconductor region. In the light emitting device, the semiconductor light emitting elements are connected in series, and are directly connected to a power source.
US08089077B2
A light-emitting element array with the improvement of the light-emitting efficiency and the improvement of the uneven amount of light is provided.A light-emitting element array comprises a light-emitting portion array consisting of a plurality of light-emitting portions linearly arranged in a main scanning direction, and a micro-lens formed on each of the light-emitting portions, wherein the micro-lens has a shape of the length of a sub-scanning direction different from the length of the main scanning direction, and the length of the sub-scanning direction is longer than the length of the main scanning direction, and is 3.5 times or less of the length of the main scanning direction.
US08089075B2
In an embodiment, the invention provides a LFCC package comprising first, second and third lead frames, a light source, and an encapsulant. The first lead frame comprises two tongues and a reflector cup. The first, second and third lead frames are attached to the encapsulant. The light source is mounted at the bottom of the inside of the reflector cup. The light source is electrically connected to the second and third lead frames by wire bonds. The reflector cup is surrounded on at least four sides by the encapsulant, the encapsulant being an integral single piece structure.
US08089069B2
A thin film transistor (TFT) includes a substrate, a semiconductor layer disposed on the substrate and crystallized using a metal catalyst, a gate insulating layer disposed on the semiconductor layer, a gate electrode disposed on the gate insulating layer, an interlayer insulating layer disposed on the gate electrode, and source and drain electrodes disposed on the interlayer insulating layer and electrically connected to source and drain regions of the semiconductor layer through contact holes exposing predetermined regions of the source and drain regions of the semiconductor layer formed within the gate insulating layer and the interlayer insulating layer. A metal silicide including a metal that is different from the metal catalyst is present within a region of the semiconductor layer under the contact hole from the surface of the semiconductor layer to a predetermined depth.
US08089062B2
An electronic device comprising: a substrate, an active layer, and an encapsulating layer comprising at least one wax.
US08089059B2
A programmable resistance memory element. The active volume of memory material is made small by the presence of a small area of contact between the conductive material and the memory material. The area of contact is created by forming a region of conductive material and an intersecting sidewall layer of the memory material. The region of conductive material is preferably a sidewall layer of conductive material.
US08089054B2
The invention comprises a charged particle beam acceleration and/or extraction method and apparatus used in conjunction with charged particle beam radiation therapy of cancerous tumors. Novel design features of a synchrotron are described. Particularly, turning magnets, edge focusing magnets, and extraction elements are described that minimize the overall size of the synchrotron, provide a tightly controlled proton beam, directly reduce the size of required magnetic fields, directly reduces required operating power, and allow continual acceleration of protons in a synchrotron even during a process of extracting protons from the synchrotron.
US08089053B1
The present invention relates to double-tilt specimen holders of the side-entry type for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The invention uses Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) and Piezoelectric Transducer (PZT) technology to create a digitally programmable dynamically tilting specimen holder integrated into a standard transmission electron microscope stage.In this invention, specimens can be tilted using a MEMS/PZT-actuated specimen holder to between 10 and 25° for stereo pairs and at higher angles (up to 90°) for tomography applications. In one embodiment, the specimen cradle may be effectively rotated 360° about the Y axis, enabling virtually the complete three-dimensional mapping of a specimen. By incorporating closed-loop capacitive feedback sensors for sub-nanometer positional control, the specimen holder allows rapid movement and full digital control of specimen tilt, enabling a number of novel techniques including real-time stereo imaging, auto crystal plane alignment and zero loss imaging.
US08089051B2
One embodiment relates to a method of controllably reflecting electrons from an array of electron reflectors. An incident electron beam is formed from an electron source, and the incident beam is directed to the array of electron reflectors. A first plurality of the reflectors is configured to reflect electrons in a first reflective mode such that the reflected electrons exiting the reflector form a focused beam. A second plurality of the reflectors is configured to reflect electrons in a second reflective mode such that the reflected electrons exiting the reflector are defocused. Another embodiment relates to an apparatus of a dynamic pattern generator for reflection electron beam lithography. Other embodiments, aspects and features are also disclosed.
US08089044B2
A method for correcting astigmatism of an electronic optical column of an electron emission spectromicroscope, comprising the steps of: forming a reference structure on a surface of a sample comprising a structure of interest to be imaged, imaging the reference structure by the spectromicroscope with secondary electrons and with core level photoelectrons, eliminating astigmatism defects appearing during the imaging of the reference structure with secondary electrons and with core level photoelectrons, a material of the reference structure being chosen such that, during core level photoelectron imaging, the contrast C between the average intensity Ia of the material of the reference structure and the average intensity Ib of the material of the sample is such that: C = I a - I b I a + I b ≥ 0.2 .
US08089040B2
An encoder assembly includes an encoder, a fixing cover for receiving the encoder, and a protecting cover for receiving the fixing cover. The encoder includes a main body, and a trumpet-shaped rubber collar extending from a first end of the main body. The fixing cover includes a first open end and a second open end opposite to the first open end. The second open end engages with an outer side of the rubber collar. The protecting cover includes an open end and a closed end opposite to the open end. A circular protrusion extends from an inner wall of the closed end to engage with an inner side of the rubber collar.
US08089029B2
A method and apparatus is provided for processing a medical device formed from a bioabsorbable metallic material. The method begins by generating a beam of radiation onto the bioabsorbable metallic material. The radiation beam is transmitted through a fluid medium and onto a heat affected zone (HAZ) of the bioabsorbable metallic material to thereby cool the HAZ and reduce a concentration of oxygen surrounding the HAZ.
US08089026B2
Methods and apparatus for controlling a plasma used for materials processing feature cooperative action of a resonant circuit and a switch unit coupled to a plasma vessel and a power supply. A sensor for acquiring a signal associated with a state of a plasma in the plasma vessel supports closed-loop control of the switch unit. Undesirable plasma states detected by the sensor can be eliminated by closing the switch unit to shunt the resonant circuit.
US08089021B2
An object is to provide a vacuum circuit breaker that has a lower electrical and thermal resistance at contacting portions between a movable electrode-rod and a movable-electrode-side connection-terminal so that a continuous current-carrying capacity is made larger without reinforcement and/or enhancement of an operating mechanism. The vacuum circuit breaker herein provided includes a vacuum interrupter held inside an insulation frame; a fixed electrode-rod mounted on one side of the vacuum interrupter; a movable electrode-rod mounted on the other side of the vacuum interrupter; a flexible conductor for electrically connecting the movable electrode-rod with a main-circuit conductor; and a movable-electrode-side connection-terminal fastened on the outer circumference of said movable electrode-rod; wherein the flexible conductor is gripped by a first face and a second face of the movable-electrode-side connection-terminal.
US08088995B2
An ionic liquid which is high in ionic conductivity and high in safety without an anxiety of ignition or the like and an electrolyte composition containing the same are provided.The present invention concerns an electrolyte composition for photoelectric conversion device, containing a quaternary phosphonium salt ionic liquid represented by the following formula (1). A viscosity at 25° C. of this ionic liquid is preferably not more than 200 mPa·sec. In the formula (1), it is preferable that the alkoxyalkyl group is a methoxymethyl group, and all of the alkyl groups are an ethyl group. In the formula, R1 represents a linear alkyl group or a branched alkyl group each having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; R2 represents a methyl group or an ethyl group; n represents an integer of from 1 to 6; and X represents N(SO2CF3)2 or N(CN)2.
US08088991B2
A method of operating a multi-junction photovoltaic cell with junctions connected in series includes operating each junction at a different, respective maximum power point. A photovoltaic circuit includes: at least one multi-junction photovoltaic cell, comprising at least first, second, and third terminals; a first junction of the photovoltaic cell positioned intermediate the first and second terminals; a second junction of the photovoltaic cell positioned intermediate the second and third terminals; and a device for independently setting current flow through the first junction and the second junction to allow for maximum power point operation of each junction, the device for setting current flow being connected to the second terminal.
US08088989B2
The present invention provides a thermoelectric conversion material composed of an oxide material represented by chemical formula A0.8-1.2Ta2O6-y, where A is calcium (Ca) alone or calcium (Ca) and at least one selected from magnesium (Mg), strontium (Sr), and barium (Ba), and y is larger than 0 but does not exceed 0.5 (0
US08088985B1
A control interface for a visual presentation system. Implementations include a graphical interface including a plurality of parallel lines and plurality of spaces between and adjacent to the plurality of lines that define at least one visual staff. One or more visual notes may be disposed on the at least one visual staff. An output data stream may be included that includes a control sequence of one or more visual element parameters adapted to operate a visual presentation system and corresponding with the one or more visual notes. The output data stream may be coupled with a visual presentation system. One or more music notes on one or more music staffs may be included on the graphical interface adjacent to the at least one visual staff where the one or more music notes are correlated with the one or more visual notes on the at least one visual staff.
US08088979B2
The invention provides methods of identifying herbicidal auxins. The invention further provides auxin-herbicide-resistant plants and genes conferring auxin-herbicide resistance. This invention also provides a method of identifying other proteins that bind picolinate auxins from additional plant species. The invention further provides a method to identify the molecular binding site for picolinate auxins. The invention also includes the use of the picolinate herbicidal auxin target site proteins, and methods of discovering new compounds with herbicidal or plant growth regulatory activity. The invention also includes methods for producing plants that are resistant to picolinate herbicidal auxins. Specific examples of novel proteins associated with herbicide binding include AFB5, AFB4, and SGT1b.
US08088976B2
The present invention is directed to controlling plant pest infestation, and particularly plant nematode infestation, by inhibiting one or more biological functions in the plant pest. The invention discloses methods and compositions for use in controlling plant pest infestation by providing one or more different recombinant double stranded RNA molecules in the diet of the pest in order to achieve a reduction in pest infestation through suppression of pest gene expression. The invention is also directed to methods for making transgenic plants that express the double stranded RNA molecules, to methods for detecting cells comprising the disclosed sequences, and to methods for detecting the disclosed sequences in biological samples.
US08088973B2
This invention relates to an isolated nucleic acid fragment encoding a Myb-related transcription factor. The invention also relates to the construction of a chimeric gene encoding all or a portion of the Myb-related transcription factor, in sense or antisense orientation, wherein expression of the chimeric gene results in production of altered levels of the Myb-related transcription factor in a transformed host cell.
US08088971B2
The invention relates to methods for the identification and use of introns with gene expression enhancing properties. The teaching of this invention enables the identification of introns causing intron-mediated enhancement (IME) of gene expression. The invention furthermore relates to recombinant expression construct and vectors comprising said IME-introns operably linked with a promoter sequence and a nucleic acid sequence. The present invention also relates to transgenic plants and plant cells transformed with these recombinant expression constructs or vectors, to cultures, parts or propagation material derived there from, and to the use of same for the preparation of foodstuffs, animal feeds, seed, pharmaceuticals or fine chemicals, to improve plant biomass, yield, or provide desirable phenotypes.
US08088968B2
The invention relates to the generation of non-human transgenic animals comprising a reporter construct for producing a detectable amount of a reporter molecule operably linked to a transcriptional regulatory nucleic acid molecule from the human CYP3A4 gene located between the initiation of transcription site of the gene and a position located 13,000 nucleotides upstream from the site. The invention also relates to the use of these animals for determining the effect of a compound, particularly, but not exclusively, a xenobiotic or steroid, on the regulation of expression of the CYP3A4 gene in a human.
US08088947B2
The present invention relates to a method for producing methacrolein and/or methacrylic acid characterized in that the catalyst filling length of a dehydration catalyst layer is 3 to 20% of the catalyst filling length of an oxidation catalyst layer in a method where raw material gas containing gaseous t-butanol is supplied to a fixed-bed multitubular reactor having a dehydration catalyst layer and an oxidation catalyst layer in this order, from the entrance for raw material gas toward the exit, to produce methacrolein and/or methacrylic acid by dehydration reaction and catalytic gas phase oxidation reaction, and the present invention can increase the conventional yield of approximately 80% to 81 to 82% even when a reaction bath temperature is relatively low (approximately 355° C.).
US08088943B2
The invention provides a hydrocyanation process to produce adiponitrile and other dinitriles having six carbon atoms, in the presence of catalyst composition comprising a zero-valent nickel and at least one bidentate phosphorus-containing ligand wherein the bidentate phosphorus-containing ligand gives acceptable results according to at least one protocol of the 2-Pentenenitrile Hydrocyanation Test Method.
US08088942B2
The present invention relates to a process for the continuous preparation of selected organic peroxides using plate exchangers having a high heat exchange capacity.
US08088941B2
Novel compounds designed to allow interactions with binding sites of GSK-3 and hence are capable of inhibiting GSK-3 activity, via inhibition of substrate binding are disclosed. Further disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions including same and methods of using same in the treatment of GSK-3 mediated conditions.
US08088933B2
Discussed herein are a charge control agent and toner comprising said charge control agent. Said toner of the invention is comprised of a resin, a colorant, and the charge control agent, wherein, said charge control agent is comprised of a specific type of metal complexes. In the invention, the charge control agent has excellent charge control properties and the characteristics of uniform crystalline size, high charge speed, high thermo stability, low moisture absorption, and good compatibility with resin. The toner of the invention has excellent electrical characteristics and produces stable image of high quality under a wide range of environmental conditions without dusting and fogging.
US08088928B2
Provided herein are novel sirtuin-modulating compounds and methods of use thereof. The sirtuin-modulating compounds may be used for increasing the lifespan of a cell, and treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, cancer, and/or flushing as well as diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity. Also provided are compositions comprising a sirtuin-modulating compound in combination with another therapeutic agent.
US08088927B2
The present invention relates to N-cycloalkyl-benzyl-amide derivatives of formula (I) wherein the substituents are as in the description, their process of preparation, their use as fungicide active agents, particularly in the form of fungicide compositions, and methods for the control of phytopathogenic fungi, notably of plants, using these compounds or compositions:
US08088921B2
The present invention describes a method for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure 3-amidinophenylalanine derivatives, which are used as pharmaceutically effective urokinase inhibitors, by starting from 3-cyanophenylalanine derivatives. The methods of manufacture comprising only one synthesis step lead to new intermediates, namely 3-hydroxyamidino- and 3-amidrazonophenylalanine derivatives. These intermediates or their acetyl derivatives can be reduced into the desired 3-amidino-phenylalanine derivatives under gentle conditions (H2 or ammonium formiate, Pd/C (approx. 10%), ethanol/water, room temperature, normal pressure or also H2, Pd/C, AcOH or HCl/ethanol, 1-3 bar) in excellent yields and in an enantiomeric excess of up to 99.9%.
US08088918B2
The present invention relates to novel noncardiotoxic compounds and pharmaceutical compositions useful in the treatment of a variety of disorders including the treatment of depression, allergies, psychoses, cancer and gastrointestinal disorders. In particular, the present invention describes pharmaceutical compositions that mitigate life-threatening arrhythmias such as torsade de pointes. Torsade de pointes is a particular cardiac problem associated with many therapeutic agents and has been implicated as a possible cause of sudden death, particularly in those individuals with a past history of disturbances of cardiac rhythm, myocardial infarction, congenital repolarization abnormalities and cardiac risk factors such as hyperlipidemia and age. This arrhythmia is a variant of paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia associated with a prolonged QTc interval or prominent U waves on the ECG. Torsade de pointes is potentially lethal because it can progress to ventricular fibrillation, life-threatening arrhythmias or precipitate sudden death.
US08088912B2
A polyvalent multimeric complex formed from a plurality of circularly permuted chimeric pRNA molecules, each carrying a stabilized biologically active moiety.
US08088911B2
The present invention provides polynucleotide molecules isolated from Zea mays and Oryza sativa and useful for expressing transgenes in plants. The present invention also provides expression constructs containing the polynucleotide molecules useful for expressing transgenes in plants. The present invention also provides transgenic plants and seeds containing the polynucleotide molecules useful for expressing transgenes in plants.
US08088910B2
An isolated polynucleotide having a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of (a) SEQ ID NO: 21, (b) the full-length sequences encoding a polypeptide having a peptide sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 25 and 26, and (c) the full-length complementary sequences to the sequences set forth in (a) or (b).
US08088909B2
The invention relates to an ex vivo animal or challenge model as a method to identify protective (recombinant) proteins and rapidly measure protective immunity in intestinal segments directed against parasites and vaccines directed against parasitic infections. The invention further relates to vaccines directed against infection with parasites, such as Fasciola hepatica, which vaccines contain protective (recombinant) proteins identified and shown to be protective in studies using the ex vivo model. The invention further relates to protective (recombinant) proteins obtained from newly excysted juveniles (NEJ) of Fasciola hepatica. The protective (recombinant) protein corresponding to an NEJ protein has an apparent molecular weight of 32 kD and an N-terminal amino acid sequence comprising the sequence XXDVSWPFWDRMYNY (SEQ ID NO:1).
US08088906B2
The invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules which encode novel fatty acid desaturase family members. The invention also provides recombinant expression vectors containing desaturase nucleic acid molecules, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and methods for large-scale production of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), e.g., DHA.
US08088903B2
The present invention relates to flea head, nerve cord, hindgut and Malpighian tubule proteins; to flea head, nerve cord, hindgut and Malpighian tubule nucleic acid molecules, including those that encode such flea head, nerve cord, hindgut and Malpighian tubule proteins; to antibodies raised against such flea head, nerve cord, hindgut and Malpighian tubule proteins; and to compounds that inhibit flea head, nerve cord, hindgut and Malpighian tubule protein activity. The present invention also includes methods to obtain such proteins, nucleic acid molecules, antibodies, and inhibitory compounds. Also included in the present invention are therapeutic compositions comprising proteins, nucleic acid molecules, antibodies, or protective compounds derived from proteins of the present invention as well as the use of such therapeutic compositions to protect animals from flea infestation. Also included in the present invention is the use of flea head, nerve cord, hindgut and Malpighian tubule proteins to derive inhibitory compounds.
US08088896B2
The present invention provides novel antibodies and functional fragments thereof specific for CD38, and methods for using the same. These antibodies as well as the novel methods for using those antibodies can be used to treat, for example, hematological malignancies such as multiple myeloma.
US08088893B2
Hypoxia inducing factors and uses thereof for inducing angiogenesis and improving muscular functions
This invention provides HIF-3α nucleic acid and protein sequences. Also provided are methods for using HIF-3α nucleic acids, proteins, fragments, antibodies, probes, and cells, to characterize HIF-3α, modulate HIF-3α cellular levels, induce angiogenesis, improve muscular function, and treat coronary and cardiac diseases in mammals.
US08088892B2
A method for screening peptides with an aptamer library for determining inhibitors of any one of the proteins from the Rho-GEFs family.
US08088890B2
Peptides, peptidomimetics and derivatives thereof of the general formula I: H2N-GHRPX1-β-X4X5X6X7X8X9X10-X11 (I), in which X1-X10 denote one of the 20 genetically coded amino acids, wherein X8, X9 and X10 may also denote a single chemical bond; X11 denotes OR1 in which R1 equals hydrogen or (C1-C10) alkyl NR2R3 with R2 and R3 are equal or different and denote hydrogen, (C1-C10) alkyl, or a residue —W-PEG5-60K, in which the PEG residue is attached via a suitable spacer W to the N-atom, or a residue NH—Y—Z-PEG5-60K, in which Y denotes a chemical bond or a genetically coded amino acids from the group S, C, K or R and Z denotes a spacer, via which a polyethylene glycol (PEG)-residue can be attached, and their physiologically acceptable salts, and β denotes an amino acid, or a peptidomimetic element, which induces a bend or turn in the peptide backbone.
US08088873B2
A topcoat composition. The topcoat composition includes a fluorine-containing polymer and a casting solvent that includes an alcohol.
US08088867B2
The invention relates to a polymer blend prepared by the process of combining under polymerization conditions: (A) a first catalyst capable of producing a first crystalline polymer having an Mw of 100,000 or less, (B) a second catalyst capable of preparing a second amorphous polymer having an Mw of 100,000 or less and differing in chemical or physical properties from the first polymer under equivalent polymerization conditions, (C) a cocatalyst, activator, scavenger, or combination thereof, and (D) one or more olefins; wherein the polymer blend is formed in-situ, comprises crystalline polymer segments and amorphous polymer segments, and has an Mw of 100,000 or less.
US08088866B2
The present invention relates to a polyethylene composition comprising a base resin which comprises (a) an ethylene homo- or copolymer fraction (A); and (b) an ethylene homo- or copolymer fraction (B), wherein (i) fraction (A) has a lower weight average molecular weight than fraction (B); (ii) the base resin has a density of 932 to 938 kg/m3; (iii) the polyethylene composition has an MFR5 of 0.1 to 0.6 g/10 min; and (iv) the polyethylene composition has a shear stress η2.7 kPa of 85 to 230 kPas. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an article, preferably a pipe comprising said composition and to the use of said composition for the production of an article, preferably a pipe.
US08088865B2
Provided is a method for producing a resin composition by melt-kneading a cyclic olefin polymer (A) having a glass transition temperature of from 60 to 200° C. and a flexible polymer (B) having a glass transition temperature of 0° C. or lower, wherein a part of the cyclic olefin polymer (A) is previously melt-kneaded with the flexible polymer (B) and a radical initiator (C) and then the remaining cyclic olefin polymer (A) is added thereto and melt-kneaded. The cyclic olefin polymer (A) is divided into two portions and added separately at two times, and accordingly, the mixture having a crosslinked structure may be diluted with the cyclic olefin polymer (A) not having a crosslinked structure, and the increase in the melt viscosity of the resin composition may be thereby prevented. A composition having good abrasion resistance and good melt shapability can be obtained.
US08088861B2
A tire inner liner having a rubber composition based on at least one butyl rubber, a reinforcing filler, graphite and a plasticizing system. The plasticizing system comprises a hydrocarbon plasticizing resin, the glass transition temperature Tg of which is above 20° C. and the softening point of which is below 170° C. A process for producing such a composition for a tire inner liner comprises incorporating into a diene elastomer, in a mixer: a reinforcing filler, graphite, and a plasticizing system, by thermomechanically mixing all the ingredients, one or more times, until a maximum temperature between 110° C. and 190° C. is reached; cooling the mixture down to a temperature below 100° C.; then incorporating a crosslinking system; and mixing everything until a maximum temperature below 110° C. is reached.
US08088859B2
A method for producing water-repellent treated aluminum pigment dispersion includes (a) adding a polysilazane solution in which a polysilazane is dissolved in a second organic solvent to an aluminum pigment dispersion in which an aluminum pigment is dispersed in a first organic solvent for reacting a hydroxyl group present on the surface of the aluminum pigment with the polysilazane to form a covering film on the surface of the aluminum pigment. The amount of the polysilazane in the reaction system for forming the covering film is 0.4 parts by mass or less based on 1 part by mass of the aluminum pigment, and the total addition amount of the polysilazane is from 0.2 to 0.6 parts by mass based on 1 part by mass of the aluminum pigment.
US08088857B2
A moisture curable composition capable of cure to an elastomeric body comprising (a) a diluted polymer comprising (i) a silicon containing polymer of the formula X-A-X1 where X and X1 are independently selected from silyl groups which contain one or more condensable substituents per group and A is a polymeric chain having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of at least 132 000; and a degree of polymerization of at least 1800. (ii) an organic extender and/or plasticizer which diluted polymer is obtained by polymerization in the presence of the said organic extender and/or plasticizer (b) a suitable cross-linking agent which comprises at least two groups which are reactable with the condensable groups in the diluted polymer, (c) a suitable condensation catalyst and optionally (e) one or more fillers.
US08088853B2
A particle of titanium dioxide treated with a polysiloxane is disclosed. One or more silicon atoms of the polysiloxane are substituted with an alkylene group that is terminated with a silyl group containing three substituents selected from the group consisting of hydroxy, halo, alkoxy, acetoxy, and mixtures thereof. These treated particles are blended with organic polymers.
US08088844B2
The present invention provides processes for the extrusion of a shapeable resin-containing composition as a foam, wherein said composition comprises at least one extrudable resin and at least one saccharide ester of Formula I:
US08088841B2
The present invention relates to the preparation of a pigmentable asphalt binder composition obtained from petroleum- and shale-refining streams, having a low content of asphaltenes, aromatic diluents of high aromaticity, polymers and inorganic pigments, obtaining a colored product. The composition of the present invention is employed in paving, permitting embellishment of roads, greater light reflection and reduction in coating temperature and in addition greater resistance to permanent deformation due to its excellent temperature susceptibility and higher softening point.
US08088838B2
The present invention discloses a cone material in endodontic treatment. The cone material comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane and a filler. The thermoplastic polyurethane is formed by a. isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) or hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), b. poly(butyleneadipate) glycol (PBA) and c. chain extender, wherein the molar ratio of PBA and the diisocyanate is equal to or more than 0.8. By changing the molar composition of the components such as polyol and diisocyanate, physical and chemical property of the disclosed cone material in endodontic treatment can be adjusted.
US08088832B2
A method and apparatus for synthesizing ethanol using synthetic routes via synthesis gas are disclosed. A method and apparatus for gasifying biomass, such as biomass, in a steam gasifier that employs a fluidized bed and heating using hot flue gases from the combustion of synthesis gas is described. Methods and apparatus for converting synthesis gas into ethanol are also disclosed, using stepwise catalytic reactions to convert the carbon monoxide and hydrogen into ethanol using catalysts including iridium acetate.
US08088828B2
This invention provides a method of treating, preventing, suppressing, inhibiting or reducing the incidence of benign prostate hyperplasia in a male subject, by administering to the subject a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, or any combination thereof as described herein. This invention also provides a method of treating a subject suffering from hair loss, comprising the step of administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a 5-α reductase enzyme type 1 and/or type 2 inhibitor, wherein said inhibitor is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, or any combination thereof as described herein. This invention also provides a method of inhibiting a 5-α reductase type 1 and/or type 2 enzyme, comprising contacting the enzyme with an effective 5-α reductase inhibitory amount of a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) and/or its analog, derivative, isomer, metabolite, pharmaceutically acceptable salt, pharmaceutical product, hydrate, N-oxide, or any combination thereof, as described herein.
US08088822B2
The present invention relates to a new medical use of fenretinide or bioactive derivatives thereof, particularly to the use of fenretinide or bioactive derivatives thereof in the preparation of a medicament for eliminating or killing tumor stem cells in a subject or for treating and/or preventing a tumor disease originating from tumor stem cells in a subject. The invention further relates to a new use of fenretinide or bioactive derivatives thereof in combination with other anti-tumor agents, a pharmaceutical composition comprising said fenretinide or bioactive derivatives thereof and at least one additional anti-tumor agent, a method of screening said other anti-tumor agent, a method of eliminating or killing tumor stem cells or particularly hematologic tumor stem cells in a subject by administrating said fenretinide or bioactive derivatives thereof, as well as a method of eliminating or killing tumor stem cells and tumor cells derived from tumor stem cells, particularly hematologic tumor stem cells and hematologic tumor cells derived from hematologic tumor stem cells in a subject by administrating said fenretinide or bioactive derivatives thereof in combination with other anti-tumor agent(s).
US08088818B2
The present invention provides a catechol-based derivative and a pharmaceutical acceptable salt therefrom and a solvate therefrom. A pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating diabetics and ischemics, comprising a catechol-based derivative of formula (I) and at least one selected from the group consisting of a pharmaceutical excipient, a diluent and a carrier.
US08088817B2
A compound represented by the following formula (1) or a salt thereof: The compound has an inhibitory activity on the production of interleukin-6, and is therefore useful as a therapeutic agent for a disease associated with interleukin-6, ocular inflammatory diseases and the like. In the formula, R1 represents a halogen atom, a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group which may have a substituent, a formyl group, or a lower alkylcarbonyl group which may have a substituent, R2 represents a bicyclic hydrocarbon group which may have a substituent or a bicyclic heterocyclic group which may have a substituent, R3 represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group which may have a substituent, an aryl group which may have a substituent, or an acyl group.
US08088816B2
Compositions and methods for inhibiting translation using 3-(5-tert-Butyl-2-Hydroxy-phenyl) -3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are provided. Compositions, methods and kits for treating (1) cellular proliferative disorders, (2) non-proliferative, degenerative disorders, (3) viral infections, and/or (4) disorders associated with viral infections, using 3-(5-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are described.
US08088814B2
A method for the prevention, treatment, or inhibition of a psychiatric disorder, in particular schizophrenia, is described which comprises administering a COX-2 inhibitor or prodrug thereof to a subject. Moreover, a method for the prevention, treatment, or inhibition of a psychiatric disorder, in particular schizophrenia or depressive disorders, is disclosed comprising administering to a subject a COX-2 inhibitor or prodrug thereof in combination with a neuroleptic drug or an antidepressant. Compositions and kits that are suitable for the practice of the method are also described.
US08088813B2
An improved thrombopoietin mimetic, the bis-(monoethanolamine) salt of 3′-[(2Z)-[1-(3,4-dimethylphenyl)-1,5-dihydro-3-methyl-5-oxo-4H-pyrazol-4-ylidene]hydrazino]-2′-hydroxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3-carboxylic acid.
US08088807B2
A microbicidal composition comprising relatively high levels of a mixture of 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one; a metal nitrate; and water. The composition optionally contains magnesium chloride.
US08088806B2
The present invention provides compounds, salts and hydrates of Formula I, wherein the variables Ar1, R2, R3, R4, r, q, and t are defined herein. Certain compounds of Formula I described herein possess potent antiviral activity. The invention also provides compounds of Formula I that are potent and/or selective inhibitors of Hepatitis C virus replication. Certain compounds described herein inhibit assembly of the HCV replication complex. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more compounds of Formula I, or a salt, solvate, or acylated prodrug of such compounds, and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, excipients, or diluents. The invention further comprises methods of treating patients suffering from certain infectious diseases by administering to such patients an amount of a compound of Formula I effective to reduce signs or symptoms of the disease. These infectious diseases include viral infections, particularly HCV infections. The invention is particularly includes methods of treating human patients suffering from an infectious disease, but also encompasses methods of treating other animals, including livestock and domesticated companion animals, suffering from an infectious disease. Methods of treatment include administering a compound of Formula I as a single active agent or administering a compound of Formula I in combination with on or more other therapeutic agent.
US08088804B2
Described herein are N-hydroxyamide antibacterial compounds, methods for making the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating bacterial infections utilizing the compounds and pharmaceutical compositions compound of Formula (I): or a salt, solvate ti hydrate thereof, wherein A is (a) each indicates a point of attachment.
US08088802B2
An N-phenylarylsulfonylamide compound of formula (I) (R1 is COOH etc.; R2 is hydrogen, methyl, etc.; R3 and R4 are a combination of methyl and methyl, etc.; R5 is isopropyl etc.; Ar is thiazolyl, pyridyl, 5-methyl-2-furyl each optionally substituted with methyl; n is zero or 1), a synthetic intermediate for the compound and a process for its preparation. The compound of formula (I) binds to a prostaglandin E2 receptor, especially an EP1 subtype receptor, and antagonizes it. It is less affected by protein binding, so it has a satisfactory in vivo activity. Therefore, it is considered to be useful as an analgesic, an antipyretic agent, an agent for the treatment of pollakiuria (frequent urination) and/or lower urinary tract disease syndrome or an antineoplastic agent.
US08088799B2
This invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the sodium-hydrogen exchanger (NHE) inhibitor cariporide and an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor which exhibits unexpectedly efficacious properties for preventing heart failure and other age-related organ dysfunctions, age-related disorders and for prolonging life, and to methods of preventing heart failure and other age-related organ dysfunctions, age-related disorders and for prolonging life comprising administering pharmaceutically effective amounts of the sodium-hydrogen exchange inhibitor cariporide and an ACE inhibitor.
US08088793B2
Chemical entities that modulate smooth muscle myosin and/or non-muscle myosin, pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment of diseases and conditions associated with smooth muscle myosin and/or non-muscle myosin are described.
US08088792B2
The present invention discloses triazolopyridinone derivatives for use as inhibitors of stearoyl-CoA desaturase having the structure of Formula I: The compounds are useful in treating and/or preventing various human diseases, mediated by stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) enzymes, especially diseases related to abnormal lipid levels, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome and the like.
US08088790B2
1H-Imidazo[4,5-c]quinolin-4-amines with a hydroxy, alkoxy, hydroxyalkoxy, or alkoxyalkoxy substituent at the 2-position, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, methods of making the compounds, intermediates, and methods of use of these compounds as immunomodulators, for inducing cytokine biosynthesis in animals and in the treatment of diseases including viral and neoplastic diseases, are disclosed.
US08088789B2
A method of treating an ophthalmic condition or disease by administering a compound disclosed herein is provided. The compound can be administered systemically or locally and in a variety of ways, such as via a temporary device, an implant, an injection or an eye drop. The compound can also be administered with an additional therapeutic agent.
US08088783B2
Compounds of the substituted 1,3-dialkyl-2,4-dioxo-6-(pyrimidinylamino)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-hydroxamic acids, show below: wherein the variables are as defined herein, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof, are provided for use as inhibitors of with MEK kinase.”
US08088781B2
Disclosed herein are compounds 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.
US08088780B2
There are disclosed novel 5,7-disubstituted [1,3]thiazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidin-2(3H)-one derivatives of formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 are as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, together with processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and their use in therapy. The compounds of formula (I) are CX3CR1 receptor antagonists and are thereby particularly useful in the treatment or prophylaxis of neurodegenerative disorders, demyelinating disease, cardio- and cerebrovascular atherosclerotic disorders, peripheral artery disease, rheumatoid arthritis, pulmonary diseases such as COPD, asthma or pain.
US08088777B2
Disclosed is a novel compound having an NPY Y5 receptor antagonistic activity.A compound represented by the formula: its pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, wherein X is hydrogen or the like, Y is a group of the formula: Z is —NR7— or the like, R1 is hydrogen or the like, R2 and R3 are each independently hydrogen or the like, n is 0 or 1, p is 0 to 6.
US08088771B2
The present invention provides a compound of general Formula (I) having histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitory activity, a pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound, and a method useful to treat diseases using the compound.
US08088770B2
The present application provides for a compound of Formula IV: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, and/or ester thereof, compositions containing such compounds, therapeutic methods that include the administration of such compounds, and therapeutic methods and include the administration of such compounds with at least one additional therapeutic agent.
US08088762B2
The invention describes novel nitrosated nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and novel compositions comprising at least one nitrosated NSAID, and, optionally, at least one compound that donates, transfers or releases nitric oxide, stimulates endogenous synthesis of nitric oxide, elevates endogenous levels of endothelium-derived relaxing factor or is a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, and/or at least one therapeutic agent. The invention also provides novel compositions comprising at least one nitrosated NSAID, and at least one compound that donates, transfers or releases nitric oxide, elevates endogenous levels of endothelium-derived relaxing factor, stimulates endogenous synthesis of nitric oxide or is a substrate for nitric oxide synthase and/or at least one therapeutic agent. The invention also provides novel kits comprising at least one nitrosated NSAID, and, optionally, at least one nitric oxide donor and/or at least one therapeutic agent. The invention also provides methods for treating inflammation, pain and fever; for treating gastrointestinal disorders; for facilitating wound healing; for treating and/or preventing gastrointestinal, renal and/or respiratory toxicities resulting from the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory compounds; for treating inflammatory disease states and/or disorders; and for treating and/or preventing ophthalmic diseases and/or disorders.
US08088736B2
Protein variants of CTLA-4, which show increased activity compared to wild-type in a cell assay and which exhibit increased stability. Such variants are useful for treatment of disorders whereby attenuation of the T cell response would be beneficial.
US08088728B2
The present invention provides methods for the local treatment of acute and chronic extravascular pulmonary fibrin deposition and/or reducing unwanted effects associated with systemic administration of natural anticoagulants to a subject via airway administration to the subject by intratracheal, intrabronchial or intraalveolar routes of natural anticoagulants or biologically active derivatives thereof.
US08088722B2
A liquid detergent composition comprising: from about 0.05 wt. % to about 5 wt. % of super wetting agent; from about 0.05 wt. % to about 10 wt. % of a non-ionic surfactant selected from short chain surfactants and branched surfactants; from about 0.05 wt. % to about 2 wt. % of a chelant; and from about 50 wt. % to about 95 wt. % of water.
US08088715B2
An automated, highly sensitive, specific and potentially quantitative detection method using an automated microscope for identifying and enumerating rare cancer cells in blood and other fluids.
US08088710B2
The present invention is directed to a method of preparing compositions enriched in compounds containing carbon chains of varying degrees of unsaturation using argentation chromatography. The present method utilizes an argentized cationic resin or a conditioned argentized alumina to separate compounds containing saturated or mono-unsaturated carbon chains from compounds having polyunsaturated carbon chains present in a starting composition. The invention is particularly useful for preparing a composition enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acid alkyl esters from mixtures of fatty acid esters in a starting composition derived from vegetable oils. The present invention is also directed to a method of preparing a conditioned argentized alumina adsorbent having increased selectivity for compounds containing one or more polyunsaturated carbon chains.
US08088708B2
The present invention provides a catalyst precursor substance containing copper, zinc, and aluminum and exhibiting an X-ray diffraction pattern having a broad peak at a specific interplanar spacing d (Å). The present invention also provides a method for producing the catalyst precursor substance by mixing a solution containing a copper salt, a zinc salt, and an aluminum salt with a solution containing an alkali metal hydroxide or an alkaline earth metal hydroxide, thereby forming a precipitate. In the present invention, a catalyst is prepared through calcining of the catalyst precursor; the catalyst is employed for water gas shift reaction; and carbon monoxide conversion is carried out by use of the catalyst. Thus, the present invention also provides a catalyst useful for water gas shift reaction, which exhibits high activity and durability and which, even when applied to a fuel cell, can be used for a long period of time with reduction in activity being suppressed; a carbon monoxide conversion method employing the catalyst; and a fuel cell system employing hydrogen produced through the carbon monoxide conversion method.
US08088701B2
Melt formed inorganic fibers are disclosed having the composition:— Al2O35-90 mol % K2O5-90 mol % SiO25-90 mol % in which SiO2+Al2O3+K2O>=50 mol %. Fibers of like composition having K2O greater than 12 mol % are also encompassed.
US08088700B2
The present invention relates to a sealing glass composition for an intermediate-temperature planar SOFC, and a composition herein comprises a mixture of BaO, Al2O3, B2O3 and SiO2 in a particular mixing ratio and a metal oxide such as CeO2, Fe2O3, Mn2O3 and Cr2O3, thereby enabling the SOFC to efficiently operate at an intermediate temperature. The composition for a planar SOFC satisfies thermal properties, mechanical properties and electric properties that are required as a sealing glass for an intermediate-temperature SOFC, and also prevents the mixing between fuel gas and air, thereby being useful for the commercialization of SOFCs.
US08088690B2
The instant invention is a method of polishing a substrate including contacting a substrate having at least one metal layer including copper with a chemical-mechanical polishing composition. The CMP composition includes an abrasive, a surfactant, an oxidizer, an organic acid including polyacrylic acid or polymethacrylic acid, a corrosion inhibitor, and a liquid carrier. A portion of the copper in the metal layer is abraded to polish the substrate. A second CMP composition contacts the abraded substrate, the second acrylate free composition including an abrasive, a surfactant, an oxidizer, and a corrosion inhibitor, and a liquid carrier. Any dendrites that may have formed on the substrate are removed through abrasion.
US08088686B2
The present invention provides a method of remedying deterioration of an insulating film which, during the remedial treatment of an insulating film deteriorated by plasma treatment, does not leave residual remedial agent on the wiring material such as the copper wiring layer, can be conducted using a dry process, and exhibits excellent applicability to mass production. The insulating film that has been deteriorated by plasma treatment is brought into contact with a remedial agent composed of a compound with a molecular structure having at least one of a nitro group and a carbonyl group, and at least one of a hydrocarbon group and a hydrogen group.
US08088677B2
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device including implanting an element selected from fluorine and nitrogen, over the entire region of a semiconductor substrate; oxidizing the semiconductor substrate to thereby form a first oxide film over the surface of the semiconductor substrate; selectively removing the first oxide film in a partial region; oxidizing the semiconductor substrate in the partial region to thereby form a second oxide film thinner than the first oxide film in the partial region; and forming gates to thereby form transistors.
US08088670B2
When manufacturing a bonded substrate using an insulator substrate as a handle wafer, there is provided a method for manufacturing a bonded substrate which can be readily removed after carried and after mounted by roughening a back surface of the bonded substrate (corresponding to a back surface of the insulator substrate) and additionally whose front surface can be easily identified like a process of a silicon semiconductor wafer in case of the bonded substrate using a transparent insulator substrate as a handle wafer. There is provided a method for manufacturing a bonded substrate in which an insulator substrate is used as a handle wafer and a donor wafer is bonded to a front surface of the insulator substrate, the method comprises at least that a sandblast treatment is performed with respect to a back surface of the insulator substrate.
US08088669B2
A method for manufacturing a substrate of a semiconductor device is provided, which comprises a step of forming a fragile layer in a semiconductor substrate by irradiating the semiconductor substrate with ion species, a step of forming a bonding layer over the semiconductor substrate, a step of bonding the semiconductor substrate and a substrate having an insulating surface with the bonding layer interposed therebetween, a step of separating the semiconductor substrate with a semiconductor layer left over the substrate having the insulating surface by heating at least the semiconductor substrate, and a step of reprocessing the semiconductor substrate from which the semiconductor layer is separated.
US08088666B2
A gate electrode made of semiconductor is formed on the partial surface area of a semiconductor substrate. A mask member is formed on the surface of the semiconductor substrate in an area adjacent to the gate electrode. Impurities are implanted into the gate electrode. After impurities are implanted, the mask member is removed. Source and drain regions are formed by implanting impurities into the surface layer of the semiconductor substrate on both sides of the gate electrode. It is possible to reduce variations of cross sectional shape of gate electrodes and set an impurity concentration of the gate electrode independently from an impurity concentration of the source and drain regions.
US08088655B2
The present invention provides a step in which a channel-length of a TFT can be controlled with higher reproducibility. In addition, the present invention provides a step in which a short channel-length of the TFT can be manufactured. Further, the present invention provides a structure of the TFT in which a current-voltage characteristic can be improved. The present invention refers to a thin film transistor comprising a lamination layer wherein a first conductive film, a first insulating film and a second conductive film are sequentially laminated, a semiconductor film formed so as to be in contact with the side surface of the lamination layer, and a third conductive film covering the semiconductor film through a second insulating film. The first conductive film and the second conductive film are a source electrode and a drain electrode, and a region which is in contact with the first insulating film and the third conductive film is a channel forming region in semiconductor film, and the third conductive film is a gate electrode.
US08088651B1
A method for providing access to a feature on a device wafer, and located outside an encapsulation region is described. The method includes forming a cavity in the lid wafer, aligning the lid wafer with the device wafer so that the cavity is located substantially above the feature, and removing material substantially uniformly from the bottom surface of the lid wafer, until an aperture is formed at the cavity, over the feature on the device wafer. By removing material from the lid wafer in a substantially uniform manner, difficulties with the prior art procedure of saw cutting, such as alignment and debris generation, are avoided.
US08088647B2
Methods, systems, and apparatuses for an integrated circuit package assembly process are provided. A wafer is received having a surface defined by a plurality of integrated circuit regions. Electrical conductors are accessible through corresponding first openings in a first passivation layer on the surface of the wafer. Solderable metal layer features are formed on the electrical conductors through the first openings. The wafer is singulated to form a plurality of flip chip dies. A plurality of package substrates is received. Each package substrate has a plurality of solder on pad (SOP) features on a respective surface. Each flip chip die is mounted to a corresponding package substrate such that each SOP feature is coupled to a corresponding solderable metal layer feature, to form a plurality of integrated circuit packages.
US08088645B2
A 3D smart power module for power control, such as a three phase power control module, includes a two sided printed circuit (PC) board with power semiconductor devices attached to one side and control semiconductor devices attached to the other side. The power semiconductor devices are die bonded to a direct bonded copper substrate which has a bottom surface exposed in the molded package. In one embodiment the module has 27 external connectors attached to one side of the PC board and arranged in the form of a ball grid array.
US08088642B2
In a thin-film field effect transistor with a MIS structure, the materials of which the semiconductor and insulating layers are made are polymers which are dissolvable in organic solvents and have a weight average molecular weight of more than 2,000 to 1,000,000. Use of polymers for both the semiconductor layer and insulating layer of TFT eliminates such treatments as patterning and etching using photoresists in the prior art circuit-forming technology, reduces the probability of TFT defects and achieves a reduction of TFT manufacture cost.
US08088639B2
A solid-state image pickup device includes a semiconductor substrate within which a pixel comprised of a photodiode and a transistor is formed. The transistor is formed at a surface of the semiconductor substrate, a pn junction portion formed between high concentration regions of the photodiode is provided within the semiconductor substrate and a part of the pn junction portion of the photodiode is extended to a lower portion of the transistor formed at the surface of the semiconductor substrate.
US08088637B1
A GaN/AlN superlattice is formed over a GaN/sapphire template structure, serving in part as a strain relief layer for growth of subsequent layers (e.g., deep UV light emitting diodes). The GaN/AlN superlattice mitigates the strain between a GaN/sapphire template and a multiple quantum well heterostructure active region, allowing the use of high Al mole fraction in the active region, and therefore emission in the deep UV wavelengths.
US08088633B2
A method of aligning a wafer when lithographically fabricating a light-emitting diode (LED). The method includes forming on the wafer at least one roughened alignment mark having a root-mean-square (RMS) surface roughness σS. The roughened alignment mark is formed as a consequence of forming a plasma etch to roughen a LED surface on which the wafer alignment mark resides. The method also includes imaging the at least one roughened wafer alignment mark with alignment light having a wavelength λA that is in the range from about 2σS to about 8σS. The method also includes comparing the detected image to an alignment reference to establish wafer alignment. Once wafer alignment is established, p-contacts and n-contacts can be formed on the LED upper surface in their proper locations.
US08088630B2
Embodiments of the present invention relate to devices and methods for detecting cellular products using detection particles having product-specific detection reagents and having a characteristic spectral feature. In particular, devices and methods are provided for measuring secreted cellular products including cytokines. Detection substrates, include microwells having product-specific capture reagents thereon or comprising hydrophobic membranes are described having greater capability to detect products from individual cells in a mixture of heterogeneous cells. With the use of multiple detection particles, multiple cellular products can be detected in a single well. Additionally, using the inherent spectral properties of detection particles, no enzymatic reactions are needed to visualize a secreted product, thereby increasing the sensitivity, reproducibility and ease of use.
US08088626B2
The invention relates to the use of compounds as new chiral selectors for separating the optical or enantiomeric isomers of a compound, wherein the chiral selector comprises at least one compound of formula (I): and at least one metal ion, for example Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, Cd2+ or Co2+.
US08088625B2
An object of the present invention is to provide an excellent method for detection and diagnosis of familial combined hyperlipidemia. The present invention relates to a method for detection of familial combined hyperlipidemia by measuring the concentration of small, dense LDL cholesterol in a sample collected from a subject.
US08088621B2
The instant invention provides methods and compositions for generating recombinant adenoviral vectors. The invention also provides kits comprising for the generation of recombinant adenoviral vectors.
US08088615B2
The invention concerns an optical component for observing a sample, which includes a substrate and at least one complex index layer of predetermined thickness, designed to show a high intensity or color contrast for optical path variations, reliefs, nanometric thicknesses and diameters when it is observed by incoherent light reflection convergent around the normal incidence under polarization extinction conditions. The upper index layer has specific surface properties providing it with selective affinity relative to at least one characteristic of the sample. An analysis system includes such a component, an analysis method using the component and uses of the method.
US08088613B2
The invention relates to nitrilases and to nucleic acids encoding the nitrilases. In addition methods of designing new nitrilases and method of use thereof are also provided. The nitrilases have increased activity and stability at increased pH and temperature.
US08088610B2
The present disclosure provides engineered ketoreductase enzymes having improved properties as compared to a naturally occurring wild-type ketoreductase enzyme. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding the engineered ketoreductase enzymes, host cells capable of expressing the engineered ketoreductase enzymes, and methods of using the engineered ketoreductase enzymes to synthesize a variety of chiral compounds.
US08088607B2
The invention provides a non-naturally occurring microbial organism having an adipate, 6-aminocaproic acid or caprolactam pathway. The microbial organism contains at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding an enzyme in the respective adipate, 6-aminocaproic acid or caprolactam pathway. The invention additionally provides a method for producing adipate, 6-aminocaproic acid or caprolactam. The method can include culturing an adipate, 6-aminocaproic acid or caprolactam producing microbial organism, where the microbial organism expresses at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding an adipate, 6-aminocaproic acid or caprolactam pathway enzyme in a sufficient amount to produce the respective product, under conditions and for a sufficient period of time to produce adipate, 6-aminocaproic acid or caprolactam.
US08088589B2
The present invention provides protein and gene expression profiles indicative of whether a patient afflicted with non-small cell lung cancer is likely to be responsive to treatment with a therapeutic compound that is a EGFR-TK inhibitor. By identifying such responsiveness, a treatment provider may determine in advance those patients who would benefit from such treatment, as well as identify alternative therapies for non-responders. The present invention further provide methods of using the gene and protein expression profiles, and assays for identifying the presence of a gene or protein expression profile in a patient sample.
US08088578B2
The invention relates to certain novel approaches to reducing or eliminating the movement of contaminants from one droplet to another on a droplet actuator via liquid filler fluid. In one application, a method of detecting an analyte is provided and includes providing in a detection window a droplet including a signal-producing substance indicative of the presence and/or quantity of an analyte and one or more magnetically responsive beads which may interfere with signal produced by the signal producing substance. The method further includes using a magnetic field for magnetically removing the magnetically responsive beads from the detection window and/or magnetically restricting the magnetically responsive beads from entering the detection window while transporting and/or retaining the droplet in the detection window. The method additionally includes detecting a signal produced by the signal-producing substance.
US08088575B2
This invention provides methods for attaching a nucleic acid to a solid surface and for sequencing nucleic acid by detecting the identity of each nucleotide analogue after the nucleotide analogue is incorporated into a growing strand of DNA in a polymerase reaction. The invention also provides nucleotide analogues which comprise unique labels attached to the nucleotide analogue through a cleavable linker, and a cleavable chemical group to cap the —OH group at the 3′-position of the deoxyribose.
US08088563B2
We have traced the detachment of photoresist during development of patterned features in the range of about 90 nm and smaller to a combination of the reduced “foot print” of the pattern on the underlying substrate and to the contact angle between the underlying substrate surface and the developing reagent. By maintaining a contact angle of about 30 degrees or greater, the detachment of the photoresist from the underlying substrate can be avoided for photoresists including feature sizes in the range of about 90 nm. We have achieved an increased contact angle between the DARC surface and a water-based CAR photoresist developer while simultaneously reducing CAR poisoning by treating the surface of the DARC after film formation.
US08088561B2
A method of making a lithographic printing plate includes the steps of: a) providing a lithographic printing plate precursor including (i) a support having a hydrophilic surface or which is provided with a hydrophilic layer, (ii) a coating on the support including an imaging layer, and, optionally, an intermediate layer between the imaging layer and the support, wherein the imaging layer includes a switchable polymer, b) image-wise exposing the coating, whereby the polymer undergoes a chemical reaction induced by the exposing step thereby creating a lithographic image consisting of printing areas and non-printing areas wherein the non-printing areas are removable from the support by a gum solution, and c) developing the precursor by treating the coating of the precursor with the gum solution thereby removing the non-printing areas.
US08088556B2
To provide a thiopyran derivative, having a structure expressed by the following general formula 1: where X is O or S; R1 is —H, —CH3, C2-4 alkyl group, thioether group, or ketone group; R2 is —H, —CH3, or trifluoromethyl group; and R1 and R2 may be identical to or different from each other.
US08088536B2
There is provided a fuel cell separator having a very good anticorrosiveness and electrical conductivity. A fuel cell separator includes: a base formed of a steel which contains 10.5 mass % or more of Cr; a metal film formed on the surface of the base; and an intermediate layer formed between the base and the metal film, the intermediate layer containing oxygen. The metal film is composed of Au or Pt, and the intermediate layer contains Fe and Cr which are contained in the steel and Au or Pt composing the metal film.
US08088535B2
The present invention relates to a bipolar plate (1) for electrochemical systems which contains a first plate (2) with a first flowfield (2a) for media distribution as well as a second plate (3) with a second flowfield (3a) for media distribution. This first plate in the region of the first flow field at least in regions comprises a plane surface section (4) from which discrete projections (5) distanced to one another project arranged in a distributed manner. Furthermore a method for manufacturing this bipolar plate is suggested as well as an electrochemical system which contains this bipolar plate. According to the invention it is possible in an inexpensive manner to manufacture a bipolar plate which permits the construction of fuel cells functioning with a low peripheral consumption (pumps, compressors) and which are safer with regard to their operation.
US08088534B2
A chemical fullerene derivative is for a proton conducting membrane electrolyte, in which sulfonic acid group SO3M and/or phosphonic acid group PO(OM)2 is directly bonded, but an organic compound is substantially not bonded. A production method is for the chemical fullerene derivative, which uses dimethylacetamide plus water in the case of sulfonation reagent K2SO3 and dioxane in the case of phosphonation reagent LiPO(OEt)2.
US08088533B2
A fuel cell includes a plurality of electrolyte electrode assemblies and a pair of separators sandwiching the electrolyte electrode assemblies. A substantially ring shaped stopper is formed integrally with a plate of the separator. The stopper has a guide inclined surface, and the guide inclined surface contacts an anode inclined surface formed in an outer circumferential region of the anode of the electrolyte electrode assembly for preventing exposure of the anode to the exhaust gas.
US08088532B2
A control apparatus for a fuel cell stack having an operation control module is provided. The operation control module is configured in terms of programming and circuitry in order to control a large number of sensor or actuator systems that are relevant to normal operation. The sensor or actuator systems relate to the operating state of the fuel cell stack during normal operation and have a safety control module that is designed in terms of programming and circuitry to control safety-relevant sensor or actuator systems. The safety-relevant sensor or actuator systems relate to the safety functions of the fuel cell stack and the safety control module is in the form of an assembly which operates autonomously with respect to the operation control module. A method for controlling the fuel cell stack and the operation control module is also provided.
US08088529B2
A system and method for providing an anode exhaust gas bleed in a fuel cell system. The system provides a normal anode side bleed using first and second bleed valves if the first and second bleed valves are not blocked and the temperature of first and second split sub-stacks is greater than a predetermined temperature, provides a continuous anode side bleed using the bleed valves if the bleed valves are not blocked and the temperature of the sub-stacks is less than the predetermined temperature, provides a normal center anode bleed through the drain valve if the first or second bleed valve is blocked and the temperature of the sub-stacks is above the predetermined temperature and provides a continuous center anode side bleed through the drain valve if the first or second bleed valve is blocked and the temperature of the sub-stacks is below the predetermined temperature.
US08088528B2
A method to condense and recover carbon dioxide. A first step involve providing at more than one heat exchanger, with each heat exchanger having a first flow path for passage of a first fluid and a second flow path for passage of a second fluid. A second step involves passing a stream of very cold natural gas sequentially along the first flow path of each heat exchanger until it is heated for distribution and concurrently passing a gaseous stream rich in carbon dioxide sequentially along the second flow path of each heat exchanger, allowing a gaseous portion of the gaseous stream rich in carbon dioxide to pass to a next sequential heat exchanger and capturing in a collection vessel the condensed carbon dioxide. This processes results in a cryogenic heat exchange in which natural gas at Metering and Pressure Reduction Stations is first cooled by reducing its pressure through a gas expander or a pressure reducing valve and then heated in a series of stages and the gaseous stream rich in carbon dioxide stream is separated in a series of stages through sequential cryogenic carbon dioxide separation and recovery.
US08088521B2
A fuel cell system capable of computing fuel level stored in a fuel tank, and more particularly to a fuel cell system capable of computing fuel level without using a flux sensor or flow rate sensor includes: a fuel tank storing fuel; a stack for generating electricity by the electro-chemical reaction of the fuel; a fuel pump for transferring fuel from the fuel tank to the stack; a fuel pump for transferring the fuel from the fuel tank to the stack; a pumping controller for generating a pump control signal controlling the pumping operation of the fuel pump; and a fuel level computing unit for computing the amount of fuel used and fuel level from the waveform of the pump control signal. In some embodiments, the fuel cell system informs a user when the fuel level is low, with reduced manufacturing costs.
US08088516B2
A battery cell has a plurality of first and second electrodes of opposite polarities that are interleaved. Each of the first and second electrodes is a sheet of non-woven fabric having a first edge from which a tab projects, and a second edge transverse to and substantially longer than the first edge. The non-woven fabric is coated with a metal in a manner that forms a strip along the second edge which has a greater electrical conductivity than areas more remote from the second edge. The strip extends along the tab. A first terminal is electrically connected to the strip along the tabs of the first electrodes, and a second terminal is electrically connected to the strip along the tabs of the second electrodes.
US08088508B2
A thermal battery includes a plurality of unit cells. Each unit cell includes a cathode, an anode, and an electrolyte disposed between the cathode and the anode. The electrolyte includes a salt molten at the thermal battery operating temperatures. The cathode includes a titanium-containing sulfide as an active material.
US08088501B2
A hard coating layer system comprises at least a main layer (3) on a surface of a substrate (1), a buried layer (4) and an outer surface layer (5), wherein the surface layer (5) comprises AlCrZ, where Z stands for N, C, B, CN, BN, CBN, NO, CO, BO, CNO, BNO, or CBNO In such innovative coating triplex system and corresponding coated tools and components the buried comprises any one of the following materials or their combinations: a metal nitride, carbide or carbonitride a metal silicon nitride, carbide, or carbonitride, wherein the metal is at least one transition metal of the IVB, VB or VIB group or a multilayer of the materials or a material or a combination or a multilayer of the materials comprising at least one metal or carbon, preferably a diamond like carbon layer. The main layer comprises a nitride, carbide or carbonitride or a multilayer of nitride, carbide or carbonitride material. The main layer can be deposited on the workpiece either directly or via an interjecting adhesion layer, which can be an aforementioned transition metal or metalnitride, preferably AlCr, AlTi, Cr, Ti, AlCrN, AlTiN, TiN or CrN.
US08088497B2
A method for making a housing comprises of providing a metal substrate; forming a base paint coating on the substrate; vacuum depositing a first metal coating on the base paint coating, the first metal coating being a chromium coating or a stainless steel coating; vacuum depositing a second metal coating on the first metal coating, the second metal coating being a commix metal coating containing chromium and stainless steel; and vacuum depositing a third metal coating on the second metal coating, the third metal coating being a stainless steel coating. A housing made by the above mentioned method is also described there.
US08088484B2
In a metallic structure including a metallic nano-chain with plasmon resonance absorption, a metallic nanoparticle forming the metallic nano-chain is formed in a circular, triangle, or rhomboid shape. The wavelength selectivity can be increased also by forming a closed region by mutually linking all of metallic nanoparticles that are mutually linked with bottlenecks. In a photodetector, a photodetection unit including a current detection probe, a nano-chain unit, and a current detection probe is arranged on a substrate. The nano-chain unit is a metallic structure with plasmon resonance absorption, where metallic nanoparticles are mutually linked with bottlenecks. Each current detection probe has a corner whose tip is formed with a predetermined angle, and this corner is arranged to face the tip of the nano-chain unit, i.e., a corner of the metallic nanoparticle. Photodetection with high wavelength selectivity is performed based on a change in the initial voltage of the current-voltage characteristic.
US08088474B2
A non-transparent microvoided biaxially stretched self-supporting non-laminated polymeric film, the film comprising linear polyester as a continuous phase and dispersed uniformly therein an amorphous high polymer comprising at least one chain-polymerized block with a higher glass transition temperature than the glass transition temperature of the continuous phase and isotactic poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), wherein the linear polyester consists essentially of aromatic dicarboxylate and aliphatic dimethylene monomer units, wherein the combined concentration of the uniformly dispersed amorphous high polymer and isotactic poly(4-methyl-1-pentene) in the film is 5 to 35% by weight; the use of the above-described non-transparent microvoided biaxially stretched film in synthetic paper; an image recording element comprising the above-described non-transparent microvoided biaxially stretched film; and a process for producing a transparent pattern comprising the step of: image-wise application of heat optionally supplemented by the application of pressure to the above-described non-transparent microvoided biaxially stretched film.
US08088470B2
A preform moulding material includes two individual unidirectional reinforcement layers of a fibrous reinforcement material and a resin material between adjacent ones of the fibrous reinforcement layers. The resin material is a matrix resin material that partially impregnates and conjoins the fibrous reinforcement layers. Each of the fibrous reinforcement layers includes a fabric that is skewed relative to a lengthwise direction of the preform moulding material and includes a weft of unidirectional fibrous reinforcement material disposed at an angle relative to the lengthwise direction and a warp of fibres in the lengthwise direction. The orientation of the unidirectional fibrous reinforcement material of one of the reinforcement layers differs from the orientation of the unidirectional fibrous reinforcement material of the other reinforcement layer such that the preform moulding material is bi-axial prepreg.
US08088465B2
The optical storage medium, in particular a read-only optical disc, comprises a substrate layer, a read only data layer comprising a pit structure and being arranged on the substrate layer, a mask layer comprising nanoparticles for providing a super resolution near field effect, and a dielectric layer arranged between the data layer and the mask layer. The dielectric layer has a thickness, which changes in dependency of the pit structure and is for example a plastic layer having a completely flat surface for providing a uniform arrangement of the nanoparticles. For the manufacturing of a respective optical storage medium, the dielectric layer is arranged on the data layer advantageously by means of spin coating.
US08088459B2
An air enclosure with independent double layer air chambers is constituted by disposing a middle film between a first outer film and a second outer film which are folded together, in which the length of the middle film is shorter than the first outer film and the second outer film, and the lower sides of the three parties are lined up with one another to allow an air filling passageway to be formed on one common end of the first outer film and the second outer film by means of hot sealing and in the meantime, a first air inlet and a plurality of first air chambers to be formed by adhering the first outer film to the middle film and a second air inlet and a plurality second air chambers to be formed by adhering the middle film to the second outer film. When the air in the air filling passageway is filled into the first air chamber to cause it to be expanded via the first air inlet and in the meantime, filled into the second air chamber to cause it to be expanded via the second air inlet, and when any one of the first air chamber and the second air chamber is broken, the another can provide the cushioning protection effect.
US08088456B2
A plastic substrate according to the present invention is used in optical instruments. The plastic substrate includes a composite substrate 10 in which fibers 11 are embedded in a resin matrix 12. The fibers are arranged in at least one predetermined direction within a plane of the composite substrate. The composite substrate substantially transmits visible radiation and has a predefined retardation that is associated with the predetermined direction in which the fibers are arranged.
US08088453B1
This invention describes a method for producing a novel, superior electroactive material and electroactive actuator, which act as artificial muscle, tendon, fascia, perimysium, epimysium, and skin that wrinkles and with the preferred movement of contraction, comprising ion-containing, cross-linked electroactive material(s); solvent(s); electrolyte(s); plasma treated electrode(s); attachments to levers or other objects; and coating(s). The composition and electrode configuration of the electroactive material of the electroactive actuator can be optimized so that contraction occurs when activated by electricity, when allowed to relax back to its original conformation, when the polarity of the electrodes is reversed, or a combination of these movements, such as antagonistic pairs. The electroactive material itself or the electroactive actuator may be used individually or grouped to produce movement when activated by electricity. This invention can provide for human-like motion, durability, toughness, and strength.
US08088447B2
A series of crosslinkable sulfonated poly(ether ketone)s containing cycloalkenyl groups were synthesized by aromatic nucleophilic substitution reaction. To decrease the swelling of fuel cell membranes, crosslinking of theses polymers by radical polymerization has been explored. These polymeric films exhibit good thermal and oxidative stability, and good dimensional stability in hot water. The proton conductivity of one example at room temperature is 7.52*10−2 S/cm. The results showed that these materials containing cycloalkenyl groups are possible inexpensive candidate materials for proton exchange membranes in fuel cell applications.
US08088445B2
Method of making a oleophobic layer on a fluoropolymer (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)). The oleophobic layer includes a fluoroalkyl acrylate copolymer. The fluoropolymer may be an expanded PTFE formed into a porous membrane. The oleophobicity may be sufficient to repel #8 oil (n-heptane) in accordance with AATCC Test Method 118. There are also coated articles including fluoropolymers and oleophobic layers made from fluoroalkyl acrylate copolymers.
US08088439B2
A method of making a porous membrane is disclosed. One such method optionally includes: forming a plurality of pillars in an array form over a substrate; and forming a layer with a mixture of a porous material precursor and a surfactant over the substrate. The method optionally includes removing the pillars to leave cavities in the layer; filling the cavities in the layer with a cavity filler; and removing the surfactant from the layer. The porous membrane can be used as, for example, a sieve for separating molecules from a chemical reaction.
US08088438B2
A resin layer formation method, resin layer formation device, disk and disk manufacturing method for making a resin layer uniform on a substrate before lamination or on a substrate to be coated by a simple procedure are provided. Adhesive A is coated at the inner circumference side while rotating a substrate P at low speed, a first adhesive layer AL1 is formed on the surface of the substrate P by rotating the substrate P at high speed, a step difference section H is formed around a rotation center of the substrate P by irradiating ultraviolet on an area in the inner circumference side of the first adhesive layer AL1 and hardening the area, the adhesive A is coated at the rotation center side from the step difference section H on the substrate P, and a second adhesive layer AL2 is formed on the first adhesive layer AL1 by rotating the substrate P at high speed. The first adhesive layer AL1 and the second adhesive layer AL2 are integrated to form a uniform adhesive layer B as a whole.
US08088436B2
This invention relates to a preparation method and equipment of graphite and catalyst composite for a kind of synthetic diamond. Firstly, graphite particles shall be placed into the heating chamber for pre-heating; secondly, the heated graphite particle will be fed into the coating room with vibrator or agitator and steam of carbonyl metal complex is input for coating; finally, the coated graphite particles are fed into a cooling and passivation room for cooling and passivation of the discharging materials or enter a next round of heating and coating. The surface of each graphite particle is plated with metal layer which can promote the crystal nucleus growing into perfect diamond crystal.
US08088427B2
The present invention is a system for replacing gluten in food products. Preferably, the gluten replacement system of the present invention utilizes gluten-free ingredients that mimic the functions of gluten in a dough and in a final product made from the dough. The gluten replacement system can be used to formulate food products that are safe for consumption by those who have a gluten intolerance, allergy or sensitivity, or by those who follow a gluten-free diet. The present invention is also directed to a composition for making a gluten-free product. The composition preferably mimics the functions of gluten in a food product. This composition may include a gluten-free gas-retaining polymer and a gluten-free setting polymer, and it may also include a hydrocolloid or a starch, or both.
US08088425B2
A method and apparatus for treatment of an outer surface of a food product are provided using a fluid having properties selected for treating the surface and bringing the fluid into contact with an outer surface of the food product in a generally continuous manner in a commercial food processing environment.
US08088423B2
A method for delivering a long coffee extract from a capsule containing ground coffee within a flow time of 50 seconds or less by injection of water under pressure within the capsule. The capsule is filled with ground coffee and has a delivery membrane. The capsule is extracted in a coffee extraction device, and pressurized water is injected in the capsule under pressure. The coffee beverage is released through the beverage delivery membrane of the capsule with engaging means engaging in and/or against the membrane. The pressure loss is reduced in the coffee bed by providing in the capsule coffee ground having a controlled percentage of fines (F) depending on the average particle size (D4,3). The flow time can be lowered to 40 seconds or even less while maintaining a coffee extraction yield within a high range of 15 to 30%.
US08088421B2
A food package for sliced food products to be maintained with a fluffed appearance, the package including a rigid base member forming a compartment for receiving the food product and a rigid lid sealed to the compartment. Advantageously, the base member includes a bottom wall and side wall portions that are configured to engage the food product to hold the slices in a fluffed arrangement thereof. Preferably, one or more tapered side wall portions hold the food product upwardly toward the lid and inwardly toward a center of the package. In preferred embodiments, the base member and lid provide a rigid-rigid construction of the food package. In preferred embodiments, the food package is also configured to stand-up in a vertical display orientation and does not require the food product be contained within a sealed pouch within the compartment.
US08088414B2
A composition comprising: (i) at least one latex or pseudolatex water insoluble film former, (ii) at least one permeation enhancing agent and, optionally, (iii) one or more plasticizers. The present invention is also directed to substrates coated with the composition of the invention, films made from the composition and methods for making and using such compositions, coated substrates and films.
US08088412B2
A chemotherapeutic composition can be configured for subcutaneous administration for preferential intralymphatic accumulation while also providing a therapeutic systemic concentration that is not toxic. The composition can include a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and a nanoconjugate configured for preferential intralymphatic accumulation after subcutaneous administration. The nanoconjugate can include a nanocarrier configured for preferential intralymphatic accumulation after subcutaneous or interstitial administration, and a plurality of chemotherapeutic agents coupled to the nanocarrier. The nanoconjugate can have a dimension of about 10 nm to about 50 nm. Also, the nanoconjugate can be loaded with the chemotherapeutic agents from about 10% to about 50% w/w. The nanocarrier can be a hyaluronan polymer of about 3 kDa to about 50 kDa. Alternatively, the nanocarrier can be a dendrimer.
US08088396B2
Applicants have produced and isolated water soluble complexes of endotoxin and modified MD-2.
US08088388B2
The present invention provides an immunostimulatory complex specifically adapted to act as adjuvant and as a peptide immunogen stabilizer. The immunostimulatory complex comprises a CpG oligonucleotide and a biologically active peptide immunogen. The immunostimulatory complex is particulate and can efficiently present peptide immunogens to the cells of the immune system to produce an immune response. The immunostimulatory complex may be formulated as a suspension for parenteral administration. The immunostimulatory complex may also be formulated in the form of w/o-emulsions or in-situ gelling polymers for the efficient delivery of immunogens to the cells of the immune system of a subject following parenteral administration, to produce an immune response.
US08088386B2
The present invention concerns a recently discovered macrophage specific receptor, CRIg, and its use in the treatment of complement-associated disorders.
US08088381B2
The present invention relates to methods for treating impaired cardiac function. Methods for treating various physiological and pathological features associated with cardiac dysfunction by administering an agent that inhibits the expression or activity of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are provided.
US08088380B2
The present invention relates to antigen binding molecules (ABMs). In particular embodiments, the present invention relates to recombinant monoclonal antibodies, including chimeric, primatized or humanized antibodies specific for human EGFR. In addition, the present invention relates to nucleic acid molecules encoding such ABMs, and vectors and host cells comprising such nucleic acid molecules. The invention further relates to methods for producing the ABMs of the invention, and to methods of using these ABMs in treatment of disease. In addition, the present invention relates to ABMs with modified glycosylation having improved therapeutic properties, including antibodies with increased Fc receptor binding and increased effector function.
US08088377B2
Isolated human monoclonal antibodies which bind to CD30 (e.g., human CD30) are disclosed. The human antibodies can be produced in a non-human transgenic animal, e.g., a transgenic mouse, capable of producing multiple isotypes of human monoclonal antibodies by undergoing V-D-J recombination and isotype switching. Also disclosed are derivatives of the human antibodies (e.g., bispecific antibodies and immunoconjugates), pharmaceutical compositions comprising the human antibodies, non-human transgenic animals and hybridomas which produce the human antibodies, and therapeutic and diagnostic methods for using the human antibodies.
US08088373B2
Disclosed herein are antitumor compositions and methods of interfering with the biological activity of PC cell derived growth factor (PCDGF), anti-PCDGF receptor antibodies, fragments thereof, and methods of making anti-PCDGF receptor antibodies. The methods involve inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells expressing the PCDGF receptor by contacting the surface of the cell with anti-PCDGF receptor antibodies. Anti-PCDGF receptor antibodies are capable of binding to the surface of a cell and interfering with the binding of PCDGF to its receptor. Also provided are compositions comprising anti-PCDGF receptor antibodies and cytotoxic molecules (e.g., toxins, oncotoxins, mitotoxins, immunotoxins, and antisense oligonucleotides).
US08088372B2
A thrombin mutant in which at least serine at position 205 among amino acids in the active center of the thrombin B chain has been replaced with another amino acid, and further at least one of the following replacements have been introduced: (I) replacement of arginine at position 89 in the B-chain with another amino acid; (II) replacement of threonine at position 69 or serine at position 22 in the B-chain with another amino acid; (III) replacement of alanine at position 200 in the B-chain with another amino acid; and (IV) replacement of lysine at position 65 in the B-chain with threonine.
US08088371B2
Methods are described for using compositions containing platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. A platelet-rich plasma composition is introduced into the muscle or soft tissue in the area of hypovascularity to treat the peripheral vascular disease.
US08088368B2
The invention is related to anti-viral compounds, compositions containing such compounds, and therapeutic methods that include the administration of such compounds, as well as to processes and intermediates useful for preparing such compounds.
US08088367B2
The present invention relates to a pheromone composition for attracting male Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), for monitoring and/or combating purpose, said composition consisting of (2S,10E)-I-O-tridecen-2-yl acetate (2S-E10-13:OAc), (2S)-tridecan-2-yl acetate (2S-13:OAc), (2S,10E)-10-tridecen-2-ol (2S-E10-13OH), and optionally (2S,8E,10E)-8,10-tridecadien-2-yl acetate (2S-E8-E10-13:OAc) and/or (2S,8Z,10E)-8,10-tridecadien-2-yl acetate (2S-Z8-E10-13:OAz), as well as a method for attracting said Hessian fly using such a composition.
US08088362B2
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical formulation for use in the administration of a long-acting β2-agonist by inhalation. In particular this invention relates to a chemically stable, highly efficient salmeterol HFA solution formulation to be administered by pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) characterized by a deep lung penetration. The invention also relates to methods for the preparation of said formulation and to its use in respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
US08088360B2
A method is disclosed for blocking or reducing physiological reaction in a mammal to the interaction of IgE antibodies present in said mammal upon contact with the corresponding antigen, by the administration to said mammal of a therapeutically effective amount of a neurotoxin (CnT) derived from Clostridia sp.
US08088359B2
This invention relates to a method of identifying a modulator of an NADPH oxidase, whereby said modulator is suitable as a lead compound and/or as a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of hearing loss and/or phantom hearing, the method comprising the steps of (a) contacting a test compound with a protein, wherein said protein (i) comprises or consists of the amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NO: 1, 3 or 5, or (ii) is encoded by a nucleic acid comprising or consisting of the sequence of any one of SEQ ID NO: 2, 4, 6, 23 or 24, or (iii) is a fragment of the protein according to (i) or (ii) and exhibits NADPH oxidase activity, or (iv) has a sequence at least 75% identical with the protein according to (i) or (ii) or with the fragment according to (iii) and exhibits NADPH oxidase activity, and optionally with one or more NADPH oxidase subunits, under conditions allowing binding of said test compound to said protein or, if present, said subunit(s); (b) optionally determining whether said test compound binds to said protein or, if present, said subunit(s); and (c) determining whether (ca) said test compound, upon contacting in step (a); or (cb) said test compound, upon binding in step (b) modulates the expression and/or activity of said protein or, if present, said subunit(s). Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, medical uses and diagnostic uses of compounds of the invention.
US08088356B2
Disclosed are a novel hydrogen storage material with enhanced hydrogen storage capacity prepared by doping an organic framework material with light metal cations, and a method of using the same for hydrogen storage. The present inventive material has at least one phenyl group at each face of a triangular building unit, which is doped with metal cations such as alkali metal cations, alkali-earth metal cations, etc., so that the material exhibits greatly improved capacity of hydrogen absorption and desorption at room temperature and can provide hydrogen storage materials practically adapted for fuel batteries useable even at room temperature.
US08088355B2
An alumina particulate material is disclosed, including particles comprising transitional alumina having an aspect ratio of not less than 3:1 and an average particle size of not less than about 75 nm. Also disclosed are fabrication techniques based on seeded processing pathways.
US08088345B2
The present invention relates to piping (1) for use in industrial activities, where the piping (1) has a specific geometry. In particular, the piping (1) is formed as a lowamplitude helix, which causes fluid flowing through the piping (1) to swirl. This swirl flow provides a large number of advantages. Particular applications where the piping (1) can be used include petroleum production risers and flowlines, production tubing for downhole use in wells, pipelines for the transportation of fluids, static mixers, bends, junctions or the like, penstocks and draft tubes, reactors for chemical, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical applications, heat exchangers, cold boxes, incinerators and furnaces for waste disposal, static separators, and air intakes.
US08088344B2
A multi-tubular reactor system for catalytically reacting a fluid reactant mixture to form a fluid product comprising a shell and a plurality of reactor tubes housed therein. The reactor system is adapted to allow heat-exchange fluid to flow between the shell and the external surface of the reactor tubes. A reactor tube comprises a reaction zone, and also a heating zone and/or a cooling zone. The reaction zone is positioned downstream of the heating zone. The cooling zone is positioned downstream of the reaction zone. The reactor tube contains a bed of solid particulate catalyst in the reaction zone. The reactor tube additionally contains a heat-exchanging essentially rod-shaped insert having a length of from 1 to 20%, preferably 1 to 5%, of the total length of the reactor tube in the heating zone and/or the cooling zone.
US08088340B2
A biochip substrate capable of realizing the high detection accuracy by restricting a nonspecific adsorption or bonding of a substance to be detected, when used for a detection or analysis of protein, nucleic acids and the like. The biochip substrate is for fixing a biologically active substance on a surface of a solid substrate, and characterized in that it has a layer comprising a polymer compound obtained by copolymerizing an ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomer having an alkylene glycol residue, an ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomer having a functional group for fixing a biologically active substance and an ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomer having a cross-linkable functional group, on the surface of the substrate.
US08088338B2
Disclosed are a system and an apparatus for regenerating an ionic liquid catalyst, which has been deactivated by conjunct polymers during any type of reaction producing conjunct polymers as a by-product, for example, isoparaffin-olefin alkylation. The system and apparatus are designed such that solvent extraction of conjunct polymers, freed from the ionic liquid catalyst through its reaction with aluminum metal, occurs as soon as the conjunct polymers de-bond from the ionic liquid catalyst.
US08088336B2
A reducing gas generator generates reducing gas including ammonia. The generator includes a solid reductant and a heat-generating portion. The solid reductant is formed in a columnar shape. A cross-sectional surface of the solid reductant has a constant shape and is perpendicular to a central axis of the solid reductant. The heat-generating portion includes a heat-generating surface opposed to a lower surface of the solid reductant in a vertical direction thereof and in contact with an entire region of the lower surface, and a heating element that heats the heat-generating surface when energized, so that the solid reductant is heated and decomposed to generate the reducing gas.
US08088332B2
A tester to detect the presence of a target substance includes a housing that can be mounted on a shipping container; a chemical reservoir insertable into the housing; a disc or an automated cartridge containing test filter swipes adapted to receive particles or vapor, and a chemical from the chemical reservoir, the test swipe including one or more chemically treated pads; a camera to capture an image from the test swipe; a processor coupled to the camera to process the image to detect the target substance; and a transmitter coupled to the processor to transmit a test result to a remote computer.
US08088331B2
An acid liquid leakage sensor quickly detecting liquid leakage from a device, such as a battery or the like, containing an acid liquid includes a first conductive member, a second conductive member, and an electrically insulating material which establishes an electrically insulating state between these first and second conductive members. The electrically insulating material includes a macromolecular compound having a basic functional group, and an electrical insulation characteristic or high resistance characteristic that decreases upon reaction with an acid liquid. It is possible to detect leakage of acid liquid, such as battery fluid, by detecting the change of conductive state between the first conductive member and the second conductive member which accompanies a decrease of the electrical insulation characteristic or high resistance characteristic of the electrically insulating material, when acid liquid leaks out and drips down the electrically insulating material.
US08088330B1
Sliced specimens can be automatically and continuously prepared and burdens of an operator can be reduced while accuracy required for the sliced specimen is maintained. The sliced specimen is prepared by relatively moving a specimen block transfer section and a cutter, and when a slicing operation to adjust the height position of the specimen block is continuously performed so that the cutting surface of the specimen block is located at a sliceable position, the cutter is moved so that a contacting area of a blade edge of the cutter that firstly contacts the specimen block after the height position adjustment is sequentially changed, every time previously set number of times of slicing operation is completed. Thereafter, the height position of the blade edge of the cutter after the change is measured by a detector, and based on the measurement information of the detector, the sliceable position is corrected and the slicing operation is resumed.
US08088327B2
A rotary charging device for a shaft furnace commonly comprises a rotary distribution configured to distribute charge material on a charging surface in the shaft furnace. A rotatable structure supports the rotary distribution means and a stationary support rotatably supports the rotatable structure. According to the invention, the charging device is equipped with an inductive coupling device including a stationary inductor fixed to the stationary support and a rotary inductor fixed to the rotatable structure. The stationary inductor and the rotary inductor are separated by a radial gap and configured as rotary transformer for achieving contact-less electric energy transfer from the stationary support to the rotatable structure by means of magnetic coupling through the radial gap for powering an electric load arranged on the rotatable structure and connected to said rotary inductor.
US08088321B2
A method of molding a microneedle using a mold apparatus that comprises a mold insert (210)having the negative image of at least one microneedle (12), a compression core (240), and a mold housing configured to allow a reciprocal motion between the mold insert and the compression core. The mold apparatus has an open position and a closed position. The mold apparatus is placed in the closed position and polymeric material is injected into the closed mold apparatus. The injected polymeric material is compressed between the mold insert and the compression core by a reciprocal motion between the compression core and the mold insert. Also, molding methods wherein the mold apparatus has sidewalls having an injection gate (270). Also, molding methods comprising a heated mold insert. Also, molding methods comprising the application of high frequency acoustic energy, such as ultrasonic energy, to the mold apparatus.
US08088320B1
Material and method for reducing creep in orthotics and prosthetics. Thermoplastic resin plies and fiber veil plies with a substantially porous structure composed of discontinuous fibers held together by small amounts of polymeric binder between the fiber contact points are consolidated under heat and pressure. This causes the resin to flow into the porous voids and the binder to dissociate from the contact points, producing a composite material with an embedded fiber veil remnant that retains the three dimensional structure of the original fiber veil. The various fibers can move freely with respect to one another at melt temperature, while the orientation of the fibers in the fiber veil remnant resists bending in all directions at lower temperatures. This composite material can then be vacuum thermoformed into at least one complex component of an orthotic device or prosthetic device, such as a complex component with a double horizon bend.
US08088310B2
Each year wildfires, forest fires and out of control camp fires do untold damage to millions of acres of land, while causing billions of dollars in damages to property, wild life, and human life. The Orr Formula is designed to aid in, and assist the extinguishment of such fires. The Orr Formula is a composition that comprises: 1) 10% by weight Calcium Phosphate which acts as a binder; 2) 10% by weight Corn Starch which aids in flaking of the remaining composition off the site to which the composition was applied after the fire has been extinguished and cooled; and 3) 80% by weight of a mixture of Sodium Silicate with a base exchange Silicate of Sodium Aluminum.
US08088301B2
Disclosed is an epoxy compound for a liquid crystal photo-alignment agent, a liquid crystal photo-alignment agent, and a liquid crystal photo-alignment film. The epoxy compound is represented by the following Chemical Formula 1. In the above Chemical Formula 1, each substituent is the same as defined in the specification.Since the epoxy compound according to an embodiment of the present invention may be prepared through a simple manufacturing process, it is possible to provide a liquid crystal photo-alignment agent and a liquid crystal photo-alignment film that are economical and have excellent substrate printability and reliability, and superb photoelectric characteristics.
US08088296B2
The present invention prevents drop in the function of a plasma processing device caused by reduction of a plasma generating chamber by reductive plasma that is generated from the introduced process gas, and extends the life of members which are in contact with reductive plasma, especially the plasma generating chamber member. The plasma processing device of this embodiment is a device for treating the surface of a processing subject S using radicals generated by exciting a process gas, wherein a plasma generating chamber member 6, having a internal plasma generating chamber 6a, is connected to a gas introduction tube 5 attached to the outside of the process chamber 1, and a gas regulator 7 is provided on the end of the plasma generating chamber member 6. The configuration is such that when the plasma generating chamber member 6 is reduced by the reductive plasma generated from the gas introduced from the gas regulator 7, a reoxidation gas will be introduced into the plasma generating chamber 6a in place of the reductive gas from the gas regulator 7.
US08088282B2
Sieving media from planar arrays of nanoscale grooves, method of making and method of using the same
Disclosed herein are an apparatus and a method for separating molecules on the basis of size and or structure, and to a method of making the apparatus. Generally, the separation method includes passing a fluid comprising particles having different effective molecular diameters through a plurality of open, nanoscale channels disposed in surfaces of substrates. The method also includes obtaining a plurality of fractions of the passed fluid such that each of the fractions includes a major portion containing particles having similar size and shape and substantially free of particles having larger size and shape. The apparatus includes first and second substrates each of which has a surface containing a plurality of open, nanoscale channels disposed therein. The surfaces are bonded together such that each of the channels of the first substrate is in fluid communication with at least two of the channels of the second substrate and is misaligned relative to the channels of the second substrate. Interferometric lithography and anodic bonding or flip-chip bonding techniques can be used to make the apparatus.
US08088278B2
A secondary wastewater treatment filtering bed medium, which includes a hollow tubular plastic body and a plurality of elongated ribs affixed to an outer surface of the body aligned with an axis of the body.
US08088267B2
Controlled electrokinetic transport of constituents of liquid media can be achieved by connecting at least two volumes containing liquid media with at least one dielectric medium with opposing dielectric surfaces in direct contact with said liquid media, and establishing at least one conduit across said dielectric medium, with a conduit inner surface surrounding a conduit volume and at least a first opening and a second opening opposite to the first opening. The conduit is arranged to connect two volumes containing liquid media and includes a set of at least three electrodes positioned in proximity of the inner conduit surface. A power supply is arranged to deliver energy to the electrodes such that time-varying potentials inside the conduit volume are established, where the superposition of said potentials represents at least one controllable traveling potential well that can travel between the opposing conduit openings.
US08088266B2
An electrodialysis method for the treatment of silicate-containing potassium hydroxide etching waste solution is provided. The method comprises: providing a reaction tank including a cathode, an anode, and two cation dialysis membranes, wherein the reaction tank is divided by the cation dialysis membranes into a cathode chamber, an anode chamber and a waste solution disposing chamber located therebetween; filling a sulfuric acid solution into the anode chamber; filling a potassium hydroxide solution into the cathode chamber; introducing a silicate-containing potassium hydroxide etching waste solution into the waste solution disposing chamber; and applying a voltage and a current density to each of the chambers to render potassium ions to transport from the waste solution chamber through the cation dialysis membrane to the cathode chamber.
US08088250B2
The invention provides a method of producing paper with a higher proportion of mineral filler particles than is otherwise be possible without the expected loss in paper strength. The method allows for the use of the greater amount of filler particles by coating at least some of the filler particles with a material that prevents the filler materials form adhering to a strength additive. The strength additive holds the cellulose fibers together tightly and is not wasted on the filler particles. The method is particularly effective when the filler particles are a PCC-GCC blend and when the GCC particles are coated with the adherence preventing coating.
US08088245B2
Core-shell rubbers are incorporated into epoxy adhesives. The adhesives are structural type adhesives that contain an epoxy resin and a toughener, and may contain a liquid rubber in addition to the core-shell rubber. The adhesives have good modulus and tensile strength, which are obtained without loss of elongation and adhesive properties.
US08088243B2
An IC card includes at least one plastic layer, a battery and at least one electronic device embedded in the plastic layer. The battery is electrically connected to the electronic device for providing power to the device. The battery includes an anode, a cathode, and at least one polymer matrix electrolyte (PME) separator disposed between the anode and the cathode. The PME separator includes a polyimide, at least one lithium salt and at least one solvent all intermixed. The PME is substantially optically clear and stable against high temperature and pressure, such as processing conditions typically used in hot lamination processing or injection molding.
US08088236B2
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for producing a large-area fibre-composite structural component, in particular for the aircraft sector, comprising a predetermined shaping element, a controllable laying device for the defined laying of at least one fibrous sheet over or into the predetermined shaping element, a controllable turning device for a defined turning of the predetermined shaping element and of the laying device in relation to each other by a predetermined turning angle, and a central control device, which is connected to the laying device and the turning device for controlling of the same.
US08088235B2
A novel compound, used for example, as a gas generating fuel, is defined as a compound having the structural formula of R3—R1—R2, wherein R1 is a benzene ring with nitro substitution, R2 is a tetrazolyl group with a C—C bond to the benzene ring, and R3 is a tetrazolyl group with a C—C bond to the benzene ring. Other fuels used in the gas generant compositions of the present invention include methylene bi(tetrazole); and 2,3-bis(tetrazolo) pyrazine. A method of making the compound is also provided. Gas generant compositions 12 containing these fuels are provided within a gas generator 10. The gas generator 10 may be contained within a gas generating system 200 such as an airbag inflator 10 or seat belt assembly 150, or more broadly within a vehicle occupant protection system 180.
US08088220B2
In accordance with various embodiments, crystalline structures are formed by providing, at a growth temperature, a liquid comprising AlN and having a quality factor greater than approximately 0.14 and forming solid AlN from the liquid, the growth temperature being lower than the melting point of AlN.
US08088211B2
An aluminum pigment having aluminum particles, a molybdenum coat comprising a molybdenum oxide and/or a molybdenum hydrate covering the surface of each aluminum particle and a silica coat comprising amorphous silica and/or a coat prepared from a silane coupling agent further covering this molybdenum coat is provided as an aluminum pigment having excellent dispersibility and stability, neither generating hydrogen gas nor agglomerating during storage and providing excellent designability for the appearance of a film. With respect to 100 parts by mass of aluminum, the content of molybdenum is preferably in the range of 0.01 to 5 parts by mass, and the content of silicon is preferably in the range of 1 to 20 parts by mass.
US08088209B2
A novel cationic liquid starchy composition and uses thereof in industry, in particular, as an additive in paper and cardboard production, as an additive for treatment of industrial water, either from paper or cardboard production or not, or for the preparation of such additives. The cationic liquid starchy composition is characterized by selected dry material, viscosity, total nitrogen content and pH values. The viscosity is 200 mPa·s with a maximum of 1000 mPa·s, (according to a T test). The nitrogen content is at least 0.6% with a maximum of 1.4% (dry/dry). The cationic liquid starchy composition can contain, at least one polyol, preferably a saccharide and used as is or after dilution. The composition is particularly suitable, for the preparation of adhesive agents, particularly of the ASA type for bringing into contact, directly or not, with a fiber composition having a raised calcium ion content.
US08088191B1
A bactericidal and fungicidal composition having fertilizer properties, the composition containing a high percentage of potassium polyphosphite is disclosed. The composition is useful as a fungicide, bactericide, and as a fertilizer for application to plants and, particularly, commercial crops. A method of making the polyphosphite composition is described, as well as methods of using same.
US08088174B2
Disclosed herein is a method for wash-protecting the color of artificially dyed keratin fibers comprising applying to the artificially dyed keratin fibers at least one drying oil or at least one composition comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium, at least one drying oil.
US08088171B2
A shunt rivet for implementation in the aorta and inferior vena cava to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and a method of treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
US08088166B2
A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device.
US08088159B2
A prosthesis that resiliently engages a body passage includes an annular clamping ring which may be folded along a diametric axis for insertion into the body passage. The clamping ring is adapted to resiliently spring outwardly, once in position inside the body passage, and to be continually resiliently biased against the interior surface of the body passage. One or more of the clamping rings may be attached to opposed ends of a tubular graft. The rings and connected graft may be positioned in the body passage using a applicator which selectively permits expansion and/or in some embodiments contraction of the annular ring in position within a body passage. Alternatively a retaining member may be used to retain the annular ring in a compressed condition until it is in a desired position within a body passage. Among other potential uses, the present invention may be useful as a vascular stent for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms.
US08088158B2
A radiopaque implantable prosthesis including a polymeric prosthesis made from ePTFE having a node and fibril structure and a radiopaque filler integral with at least a portion of the node and fibril structure of the ePTFE. A method of making the prosthesis is also provided.
US08088157B2
Apparatus and methods for stenting are provided comprising a stent attached to a porous biocompatible material that is permeable to endothelial cell ingrowth, but impermeable to release of emboli of predetermined size. Preferred stent designs are provided, as well as preferred manufacturing techniques. Apparatus and methods are also provided for use at a vessel branching. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention may comprise a coating configured for localized delivery of therapeutic agents. Embodiments of the present invention are expected to provide enhanced embolic protection, improved force distribution, and improved recrossability, while reducing a risk of restenosis and thrombus formation.
US08088155B1
A prosthesis that resiliently engages a body passage includes an annular clamping ring which may be folded along a diametric axis for insertion into the body passage. The clamping ring is adapted to resiliently spring outwardly, once in position inside the body passage, and to be continually resiliently biased against the interior surface of the body passage. One or more of the clamping rings may be attached to opposed ends of a tubular graft. The rings and connected graft may be positioned in the body passage using a applicator which selectively permits expansion and/or in some embodiments contraction of the annular ring in position within a body passage. Alternatively a retaining member may be used to retain the annular ring in a compressed condition until it is in a desired position within a body passage. Among other potential uses, the present invention may be useful as a vascular stent for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms.
US08088153B2
The present invention relates to a low cost treatment device for coronary artery disease. The treatment device for coronary artery disease comprises a photonic glove, a heart-board, and a machine for controlling the photonic glove and the heart-board, which are electrically connected. The photonic glove includes 4 holes for the 4 fingers next to the thumb to wear, three fixed belts of the photon generating device, and at least one magic stick for fixing the belts of the photon generating device. One end of each fixed belt in the photon generating device is fixed to the front side of the photonic glove. Three photonic generators are assembled on the front side of the photonic glove, and the magic sticks are positioned on the back of the photonic glove. The present invention is low cost, friendly to use, and can work easily at home compared to the traditional invention.
US08088147B2
Multi-membrane prosthetic nucleus and implants using same are disclosed having an outermost membrane that is semi-compliant and limits the innermost membrane and any intermediate membranes that are highly compliant from bulging out of any opening in the annulus fibrosus. The outermost membrane may help protect the innermost membrane from trauma including any trauma before the innermost membrane is expanded through the injection of prosthetic nucleus material and trauma during the expansion of the innermost membrane in response to the injection of prosthetic nucleus material. Also disclosed is a coated membrane which combines the mechanical properties of the foundation layer with the low permeability to the passage of the flowable prosthetic material of the coating. This coated membrane is semi-compliant and prevents the prosthetic nucleus from bulging out of any openings in the annulus fibrosus. Use is made of injected prosthetic nucleus material that changes to a non-flowable state.
US08088123B2
A hair growth modulation device is configured to impart a suitable quantity of irradiated light to a target site while lowering the irradiation intensity required by a light irradiator that generates modulating light for modulating hair growth. This device is provided with a hair follicle approximating means that causes hair follicles of body hairs at the target site to approach the skin surface, thereby enhancing the irradiation efficiency of modulating light irradiated to the hair follicles.
US08088122B2
Optical ear infection treatment device and methods are described where an LED and optical light pipe are used to deliver the light from the LED to the middle ear of a patient to reduce bacterial growth and/or eliminate bacteria. Typically, the device is placed in the ear and then activated by the user by pressing an activation button. Once activated the control electronics will turn on the LED and perform a treatment. The most basic treatment mode comprises turning on the LED at maximum power for a predetermined period, e.g. 30 minutes, 60 minutes. When the preset duration is completed, the device will notify the user by an audible beep or vibration that the treatment is complete. Once completed the user can remove the device, the treatment could be repeated once a day or for extreme cases multiple times during the day.
US08088120B2
The present invention relates generally to the field of treatments for nasal congestion, and in particular, to a method and apparatus for alleviating nasal congestion in a patient by mechanically stimulating the sneezing reflex in the patient to urge drainage of the nasal passageways. The method includes inserting an instrument having a work tip portion provided with at least one filament into the nostril of the patient. The nasal mucosa of the patient is then probed with the at least one filament to stimulate in the patient the sneeze reflex. This probing action causes the patient to sneeze. With the patient's mouth closed, the sneeze urges at least one of mucus, fluid and debris in the nasal passages of the patient to be forcibly expelled through the nostrils of the patient thereby draining the nasal cavity of the patient. The instrument used in the performance of this method includes a handle portion upon which the work tip portion is carried. The handle portion may be integrally formed with the work tip portion or releasably attachable thereto. The instrument is further provided with a physical stop associated with one of the work tip portion and the handle portion to prevent injury resulting from the working tip portion being inserted too deeply into the nasal passages of the patient.
US08088118B2
A system and method for transferring a fluid from a first container to a second container, the system comprising a first container (112) having a fluid (126) therein, the first container being sealed by a septum (124) and a piston (122), the second container being sealed at its mouth by a pierceable septum (132) and having a plunger (130) at the opposite end, a moveable needle shuttle (116) having first (144) and second (146) piercing ends, the arrangement being such that upon advancement of the first container with respect to the second container, a second one of the piercing ends (144) is adapted to pierce plunger (130) of the second container and a first piercing end (146) being designed to pierce the septum (124) of the first container.
US08088112B2
An implantable device (1) for injecting and/or drawing fluid either in an organ or vessel of the body of a human or animal patient and the device comprising a housing (2) with a chamber (2A) connected to a catheter, the catheter is connected either to the organ or vessel or to the compartment. The housing (2) has a proximal wall (4) and a distal wall (5) between which a lateral wall extends. The housing (2) has a puncture area (7) able to be pierced by a hollow needle (14) for injecting and/or drawing fluid in the chamber (2A). The puncture zone (7) extends on the proximal wall (4) and the lateral wall.
US08088108B2
This is a Local Anesthesia Injection Cone. It is made of a very simple cone shaped piece of clear plastic with a flange on the tip of the cone where a Luer lock syringe can attach. There are a multiple tiny hypodermic needles protruding from the base of the cone. The number of needles would be directly proportional to the diameter of the device. It would be available in many sizes identified by the diameter of the base of the cone.
US08088103B2
Catheters for occluding, visualizing, irrigating, evacuating, and delivering agents to a treatment area are disclosed. The catheters comprise a catheter body comprising five lumens, first and second occlusion balloons coupled to the catheter body, an optional space-occupying balloon coupled to the catheter body and disposed between the first and second occlusion balloons, and an optional visualization means that enables visualization between the first and second occlusion balloons. Methods for using these catheters are also disclosed. A method comprises inflating the first and second occlusion balloons, inflating the space-occupying balloon, allowing fluid to exit via an evacuation lumen, optionally irrigating or aspirating to facilitate fluid exit via said lumen, and delivering an agent to a treatment area via the agent lumen.
US08088099B2
Dispensing assemblies, methods, and kits of parts for dispensing two separate fluids to an treatment site, including entraining non-atomized flow of a first fluid in an atomized flow of a second fluid, delivering a first fluid upstream from a second fluid, delivering a first fluid and a second fluid with re-shapeable malleable tubes, delivering first and second fluids with releasable connectors maintained by a handle assembly, and kits of parts with angularly offset pockets.
US08088097B2
A method for achieving tight glycemic control in a patient in need thereof is disclosed. The method comprises deploying an equilibrium glucose sensor within a blood vessel in the patient, coupling the sensor to a monitor that displays the blood glucose concentration, and administering a blood glucose regulator when the blood glucose concentration varies outside of the predetermined concentration range. The blood glucose regulator is administered in an amount sufficient to return the blood glucose concentration to within the predetermined concentration range, thereby achieving tight glycemic control.
US08088092B2
A valve for use in a shunt system to drain fluid from one part of a patient's body to another is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the valve is operable at a threshold pressure that is selectively adjustable up to at least about 400 mm H2O at increments in the range of about 10 mm H2O to 40 mm H2O. The ability of the valve to operate at a high threshold pressure and to be adjusted at relatively small increments renders the valve particularly advantageous for use in younger hydrocephalus patients. In particular, the operating pressure of the valve can be gradually limited in small increments over a period of time to slowly force the patient's own resorption system to circulate cerebrospinal fluid. At high operating pressures of at least about 400 mm H2O shunt independence can be achieved thereby allowing the shunt to be successfully removed.
US08088082B2
The present invention provides a fetal movement monitoring system and a fetal movement information collecting device which are simply usable at home to collect and analyze correctly detail information about fetal movements over a long time. The fetal movement monitoring system includes a fetal movement information collecting device 21 and an analyzing device 40, wherein the fetal movement information collecting device 21 includes a fetal movement sensor 22 for detecting the movement of a fetus in the uterus of the mother's body, a timer 25 for outputting time information, a memory 26, and a storage control means 24 which receives the output signal from the fetal movement sensor 22 and stores, in the memory 26, waveform information of the output signal obtained for a period from the time when the output signal reaches a level to exceed a predetermined threshold value until a predetermined time elapses along with time information at the time; and the analyzing device 40 which bases on the waveform information and the time information stored in the memory 26 to reproduce signal waveform, to determine fetal movement type, and to produce fetal movement occurrence pattern, and bases on the occurrence pattern to determine whether a fetus is smoothly growing or not, and displays the determination result on a display 42.
US08088081B2
A core biopsy device comprises an outer cutting cannula in telescoping register with an inner spoon cannula. The outer cutting cannula is provided at a distal end with an arcuate excising blade that is biased radially inwardly to extend beyond the longitudinal axis of the cannula. The inner spoon cannula terminates at a distal end in an arcuate wall to form a biopsy sample spoon for supporting a biopsy sample thereon. The outer cutting cannula can be rotated relative to the inner spoon cannula so that the excising blade can excise the biopsy sample from the surrounding tissue. After removal of the core biopsy device from the tissue, the outer cutting cannula can be retracted away from the inner spoon cannula to reveal the biopsy sample and enable the sample to be removed from the biopsy device in a relatively undisturbed condition.
US08088070B2
A hand-held ultrasonic imaging device is provided with a removable transducer array. The imaging device has a housing, a display on the housing, and a transducer assembly including a transducer array detachably coupled to the housing. The imaging device may detect the type of transducer array that is coupled to the housing and select a corresponding functional mode for the transducer array. The transducer array may be coupled at different angles to the housing. The transducer array may be coupled to the housing by a pivotable swivel connector.
US08088057B2
This is a new invention, which is safer, simpler to use, less invasive into a user's daily routine and provides a lower cost solution to existing pulsed magnetic field and related vibrational electromagnetic therapy devices to improve sleep, encourage natural healing and reduce pain. This is accomplished through Multiple Simultaneous Extremely Low Frequency (MSELF) energy waves. The MSELF energy waves are derived from a quartz crystal with a fundamental frequency less than one-half of one percent from a natural Fibonacci Sequence Number. The apparatus utilizes firmware operating in a microcontroller. emulating Circadian Rhythms. The microcontroller is also clocked by the Fibonacci Number Quartz Crystal. Additionally, the apparatus's unique application of an H-Bridge configuration power-driver with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) capabilities supports a novel approach to supply two simultaneous therapeutic frequencies.
US08088054B2
A folding score having a pair of laterally spaced, parallel scoring grooves which are individually asymmetrical. This invention also relates to a method and apparatus for forming the folding score.
US08088053B2
A physical training and rehabilitation system includes a rope having first and second sides that hang downwardly from a bar, beam or other support, the rope terminating in first and second ends. A locking mechanism having first and second sections receives the first and second rope sides, respectively. Each section of the mechanism is independently adjustable between an unlocked position, wherein the rope side associated with that section can slide through the locking mechanism, and a locked position, wherein the rope side associated with that section is prevented from sliding. A connector disposed at the first end of the rope forms a loop for connection to an attachment or accessory related to a desired activity. The attachments or accessories may include a loop, a sling, a rigid bar, a spring, a support belt, or a handle. The system may be provided in kit form. Methods of assembly and use are also disclosed.
US08088051B2
An adjustable sphincter exerciser (Kegel exercise) includes a flexible tubular member, at least one sleeve mounted to the tubular member; a body inserted into the tubular member, a conductive device connected to the body and located in the tubular member, the conductive device being activated when the tubular member is compressed, a vibration unit electrically connected to the conductive device, and a power unit providing power to the conductive device and the vibration unit. The at least one sleeve can be replaced and has different hardness, when the user squeezes the at least one sleeve and the tubular member to activate the conductive device and the vibration unit, the user is acknowledged the force that sphincter is exercised. The adjustable sphincter exerciser (Kegel exercise) enhances the muscular strength and the muscular endurance of the sphincter.
US08088045B2
An exercise apparatus in this disclosure includes a doorway mountable runner restraint device. The device has a generally rigid, preferably padded, belly pad that is placed against and in front of a user's pelvis and abdominal area. A pair of cords are attached to the belly pad, each having an opposite end attached to an elastic member. Each of the elastic members is, in turn, attached to an anchor which is removably fastened to a door, a doorway frame, or sandwiched between a closed door and the doorway frame. A user fastens the apparatus in place in a doorway, faces away from the doorway, and places the belly pad against his or her torso directly over the pelvis area, and then runs in a direction away from the doorway. The elastic members resist and restrain the user from substantial movement away from the doorway but stretch to allow forward running movement.
US08088039B2
In a hydraulic control apparatus for a vehicle automatic transmission, a check valve is provided parallel to a first oil passageway switching valve and a third oil passageway switching valve between an output port of a linear solenoid valve and a brake, and the check valve permits pressure oil to flow from the brake to the output port side, and blocks the flow thereof in the opposite direction. Therefore, the pressure oil from the brake when the brake is released is supplied to the output port via the check valve, not via the first or third oil passageway switching valve. Therefore, when the brake is released, the engaging pressure of the brake can be controlled by the linear solenoid valve, and the positions of the first and third oil passageway switching valves are not restricted.
US08088031B2
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members, five interconnecting members, and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. Each of the five interconnecting members continuously interconnects at least one of the first, second, and third members of the four planetary gear sets with at least one other of a stationary member, the first, second, and third members of the four planetary gear sets. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
US08088028B2
A tracking system for use with an arrow having a shaft and arrowhead includes a housing having first and second separable portions that define an interior area. A transmitter is operatively coupled to one of the portions and positioned in the interior area when coupled together. A first anchor is configured to be coupled to the shaft and the housing first end. A second anchor is configured to be coupled to the arrowhead and the housing second end. A fastener selectively couples the first and second portions together. A switch activates automatically when the fastener is moved to couple the first and second portions together and causes the transmitter to activate. The system includes a tracking unit having a receiver, display, processor, and programming to indicate a location of the transmitter based on signal received by the receiver from the transmitter. Data received from the transmitter may include an identifier.
US08088019B1
An adjustable golf club is disclosed having a hosel with a spherical section and positioning linkage that allows the face angle of the head to be changed without changing the lie angle or rotating the shaft around its axis. The hosel is fixed in place by tightening the spherical surface of a compression nut against the spherical section of the hosel and a receiving compression cup with matching spherical surface radiuses, along with a slotted rotation prevention section consisting of two flat surfaces, a threaded linkage engaging the lower hosel piece and anchored to a tube attached to the skirt of the head. The linkage is used to threadably position the angle of the hosel piece. The invention also provides a quick and easy way to remove and replace the hosel piece along with the shaft for additional customization of the club.
US08088018B2
The invention relates to a golf training aid comprising a frame, having retaining means, and a bar retained by the retaining means so that in use the bar can move only in a fixed plane. The bar is arranged to be coupled to a user in such a way that in use the user's shoulders are constrained to move in or parallel to the fixed plane. This allows a user to correctly learn a pendulum putting stroke.
US08088014B2
A gaming peripheral for a gaming machine is described. The gaming peripheral can be configured to emulate the functions of a lighting device, such as a candle. The gaming peripheral can be configured to provide enhanced gaming features such as 1) enhanced networking capabilities, 2) enhanced peripheral device monitoring and upgrade capabilities, 3) enhanced player monitoring and security capabilities 4) enhanced gaming function capabilities and 5) enhanced player reward capabilities. The enhanced gaming features can be provided in a non-intrusive manner such that regulated software executed on a gaming machine does not have to be altered.
US08088013B2
A gaming machine includes a first box having inner walls, a second box, a front member, a communicating portion, and an exhausting portion. The front member has side walls, and covers components placed at a front portion of the second box. The front member defines a first space at the front portion. The communicating portion provided at the front portion allows a second space inside the second box to communicate with the first space. The exhausting portion provided in a side wall of the front member allows air sent from the second space to the first space to be discharged. The front member is arranged such that a first distance is smaller than a second distance, where the first distance starts at a first inner wall to finish at a first side wall, and the second distance starts at a second inner wall to finish at a second side wall.
US08088004B2
System and method for implementing environmentally-sensitive simulations on a data processing system
A system and method for implementing environmentally-sensitive simulations on a data processing system. According to an embodiment of the present invention, an ambient temperature associated with a player's location is provided to an environmental module. The environmental module provides the ambient temperature information to a simulation application. The simulation application modifies the behavior of a simulation executing on the data processing system according to the ambient temperature. The data processing system displays the simulation with the modified behavior to the player.
US08088001B2
In a cashless gaming environment, a gaming patron has accounts and may accumulate winnings as well as different types of awards. Methods for efficiently exchanging the awards are disclosed. A secondary market is established for trading different goods and services. Liquidity of credits and awards is established.
US08087987B2
A method and system for playing a bowling game in combination with a poker-type card game is disclosed. The method and system comprising the steps of initiating a conventional bowling game, filling at least one bowling frame, dealing one or more hole cards to a player, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing one or more community cards, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing another set of one or more community cards, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing a final set of community cards, completing the bowling game by filling a final bowling frame, determining a final bowling score, determining if a poker hand formed from a combination of hole cards and community cards is a winning hand, providing a poker award if the poker hand is a winning hand, and combining the poker award with the final bowling score to create an enhanced bowling score.
US08087980B2
An air-pressure-control system, the system comprising a system inlet, a system outlet, and a variable-speed fan configured to operate at a speed. A motor controller in communication with the fan is configured to control the speed of the fan. A differential-pressure transducer configured to monitor an air pressure at the system inlet and an air pressure at the system outlet. A closed-loop pressure controller in communication with the motor controller and differential-pressure transducer, wherein the pressure controller is configured to vary the speed of the fan based on the pressure differential between the inlet and outlet of the system, thereby controlling a pressure within a space. An ultraviolet kill chamber may be disposed between the inlet and outlet to expose airborne particulate to UV radiation. The system may also have a filter located within an air-flow path between the system inlet and system outlet.
US08087974B2
A manufacturing method for a worm wheel, the worm wheel meshed with an operational worm at usage, has steps of preparing a worm wheel, in which at least a surface layer of a tooth portion is made of synthetic resin, preparing a machining worm, in which pitch of teeth of the machining worm in an axial direction thereof is the same as that of an operational worm, diameters of tip and root portions of the tooth of the machining worm are equal to or more than those of the operational worm and abrasive grains are provided on a surface of the machining worm by means of electro-deposition, disposing the machining worm in a twisting position relative to the worm wheel and rotating the machining worm and the worm wheel with meshing each other so as to machining the tooth portion of the worm wheel.
US08087968B2
A nozzle discharge assembly includes a housing having a connection for receiving a pressurized supply of liquid and a nozzle having a discharge orifice movable relative to the housing. A mechanism controls a movement of the discharge orifice so that the discharge orifice moves in a pattern relative to the housing for creating a substantially helical stream of liquid when the pressurized supply of liquid flows through the discharge orifice.
US08087964B2
A method of fabricating an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) includes: forming red, green, blue and white pixel regions on a substrate; forming first electrodes in the respective pixel regions on the substrate, the first electrodes being spaced apart from one another; forming a pixel defining layer having an opening partially exposing surfaces of the first pixel electrodes on the substrate; forming organic layers including at least an organic EMission Layer (EML) in the opening of the pixel defining layer; forming a second electrode on the organic layers; forming a passivation layer on the second electrode; and forming red, green and blue color filter layers on the passivation layer using a laser induced thermal imaging method to correspond to the organic layers of the red, green and blue pixel regions, the red, green and blue color filter layers being sequentially formed and ends of a first-formed color filter layer overlapping second and third formed color filter layers.
US08087962B2
A manufacturing method of a display apparatus which comprises a plurality of display pixels including light emitting elements having a carrier transport layer includes first causing a surface of an electrode formed in a forming region of the plurality of display pixels by being enclosed by a partition wall which is provided on a substrate to have a lyophilic characteristic, making a surface of the partition wall have a repellency characteristic and second causing the surface of the electrode to have the lyophilic characteristic again by carrying out a plasma treatment in an inert gas atmosphere.
US08087956B2
A conductive contact holder includes a holder substrate that is made of a conductive material. The holder substrate has a first opening section for holding conductive signal contacts, and a holding member that is made of an insulating material and that is arranged into the first opening section for holding at least one of the conductive signal contacts. The largest outer diameter of a surface of the holding member parallel to a surface of the conductive contact holder is larger than the smallest interval between longitudinal axes of the conductive contacts held in the conductive contact holder.
US08087944B2
A connector includes a ground contact formed by a plate-shaped conductor member extending in a longitudinal direction of the connector, and a plurality of signal contact pairs arranged on both sides of the ground contact, with two signal contacts forming each signal contact pair arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The ground contact may include a plurality of first lead parts alternately extending towards mutually opposite sides of the plate-shaped conductor member.
US08087943B2
A power semiconductor module including a contact element. One embodiment provides an electrically conductive contact element extending in a longitudinal direction and having a first end and a second end lying opposite the first end. The contact element has a first flange at its first end. The first flange is embodied such that when the contact element is placed with the first flange ahead onto a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the first flange has with the plane a number of first contact areas spaced apart from one another.
US08087936B2
An individual that is speech impaired, such as a patient in a dentist's office, is provided with means to communicate with a service provider, such as a dentist, without the individual using their own voice. In one embodiment, a computing system initiates display of user interfaces on a display device that is visible to the speech impaired individual. The speech impaired individual may then select text phrases displayed on the display device using an input device, such as a wireless remote control. The communication systems selects one or more audio files that correspond with the selected text phrases and plays the audio file(s) so that the dentist hears the audible representation of the selected text phrase, such as via a headset that is worn by the dentist. In some embodiments, the patient is further able to select one or more educational and/or entertainment media items via the user interface.
US08087935B2
An implant delivery system includes a carrier that is attached to an implant. The carrier includes a main body having a lower portion to be attached to the implant and an upper portion. The upper portion includes an internally threaded section having a polygonal internal cross-section. The polygonal cross-section engages a tool that applies torque to install the implant into bone. The threaded section receives a threaded portion of a secondary component to be coupled to the carrier after the implant has been installed. One secondary component is a gingival healing component. Thus, the combination of the carrier and the gingival healing component acts as a healing abutment after the carrier has been used to install the implant.
US08087928B2
A burner head is constructed with adjacent gas delivery tubes of different geometric cross-section shapes which are mechanically held in place radially. The tubes touch in a longitudinal direction at points along their respective inner and outer circumferences so that precise axial alignment whether coaxial or axially offset, is achieved while preserving the necessary laminar gas flow. This configuration greatly speeds the production time which allows economical burners to be produced even when a greater number of faceplate jets is desired. The tube-to-tube contact is also beneficial to the operation of the burner by providing a heat transfer path away from the innermost tube, which prevents overheating. Examples of the simplest geometric tube shapes employed are, for example, a square within a circle, or conversely, a circle within a square.
US08087920B2
A process and an apparatus for performing a UV nano-imprint lithography are provided. The process uses a polymer pad which allows a uniform application of pressure to a patterned template and an easy removal of a residual resin layer. The apparatus includes a tilt and decentering corrector which allows an accurate alignment of layers during the nano-imprint lithography process.
US08087909B2
The present disclosure relates to a rotor assembly for a peristaltic pump. The pump includes a first rotor having a plurality of rollers and a second rotor, coupled to the first rotor, having a plurality of rollers. The rollers of the first and second rotors are located at an angle of about 45° relative to each other. In an embodiment, the first rotor and the second rotor are circular. In another embodiment, the rollers of the first rotor are equally spaced or located at an angle, about 90°, relative to each other. In yet another embodiment, the rollers of the second rotor are equally spaced or located at an angle, about 90°, relative to each other. A peristaltic pump and a method of supplying fluid to a surgical area are also disclosed.
US08087907B2
An oil-free turbo vacuum pump is capable of evacuating gas in a chamber from atmospheric pressure to high vacuum. The turbo vacuum pump includes a pumping section having rotor blades and stator blades which are disposed alternately in a casing, and a main shaft for supporting the rotor blades. A gas bearing is used as a bearing for supporting the main shaft in a thrust direction, spiral grooves are formed in both surfaces of a stationary part of the gas bearing, and the stationary part having the spiral grooves is placed between an upper rotating part and a lower rotating part which are fixed to the main shaft. A thrust magnetic bearing for canceling out a thrust force generated by the differential pressure between a discharge side and an intake side by an evacuation action of the pumping suction is provided.
US08087905B2
The invention relates to a cooling apparatus for an electric component such as a CPU, a memory or power semiconductor, such as transistors or LEDs, or a processor. The cooling apparatus comprises a heatsink, an impeller that coaxially encloses the heatsink, and a drive motor for the impeller. The heatsink takes the form of a stationary hub having a base for introducing heat from the electronic component that is to be cooled, the hub widening towards the base. Cooling fins are thermally coupled to the hub, the cooling fins being given a spiral-like curve similar to the blades of the impeller. Due to the special design of the hub and the cooling fins as well as the use of a radial flux motor, a highly efficient, particularly compact cooling apparatus can be realized.
US08087899B2
An electric fan has a driving assembly, a stand and an impeller assembly being connected to and being driven by the driving assembly. The driving assembly has a positioning panel having multiple indentations and two connectors being formed on the positioning panel. The stand is mounted into the driving assembly and around the connector of the driving assembly and has at least two resilient positioning protrusions engage two of the indentations of the driving assembly. With the at least two positioning protrusions engaging different indentations, the driving assembly and the impeller assembly are pivoted and are held in different angles. Therefore, the angle of the impeller assembly is easily adjusted.
US08087884B2
A stator vane includes leading and trailing edges extending longitudinally between a root and a tip, the trailing edge having an exit swirl angle distribution such that the exit swirl angle has a maximum value at an intermediate radius location.
US08087873B2
A device that deploys during a blade portion failure that encompasses the engine casing is provided to prevent damage caused by the failure. A blade containment device such as a flexible interwoven structure or a net encompasses the engine casing and the blade failure path, or is embedded in the engine casing, and deploys in the event of a blade failure, such as the breaking of an engine blade. The net deploys when the blade portion has failed and has started expanding along the blade failure path, and may include a number of links attached to one another. Upon impact with a broken blade portion, thus transferring the kinetic energy of the blade portion to the net, some or all of the links may break off from each other, thus allowing the net to deploy and dissipating the kinetic energy generated by the expanding broken blade. Consequently, the blade remains contained inside the net, and blade containment is improved.
US08087868B2
This invention relates to a forklift truck (1) of the type suitable for mounting on the rear of a carrying vehicle, the forklift truck comprising a u-shaped chassis (3) having a vertical mast (17) mounted thereon. The vertical mast carries a side shift mechanism (21), the side shift mechanism comprising a fixed carriage (23) with a movable carriage (25) slidably mounted thereon. A pair of fluid actuated rams (27, 29) is provided to slide the movable carriage (25) laterally relative to the fixed carriage (23). A rotating cylinder (49) is provided to rotate a pair of forks (19) mounted on the movable carriage. The configuration achieves greater side shift without the use of rollers or chains and permits the use of a rotating cylinder.
US08087865B2
In a bookbinding apparatus provided with a coating device having a coating roller to coat an adhesive onto a spine of a sheet bundle by moving relatively the coating roller and the spine in both forward and backward movement while making the coating roller and the sheet bundle to face each other, the coating device includes: a first regulating member provided downstream of the coating roller in the forward movement, which regulates a thickness of a layer of the adhesive coated on the spine of the sheet bundle; and a second regulating member provided downstream of the coating roller in the backward movement, which regulates a thickness of a layer of the adhesive coated on the spine of the sheet bundle.
US08087851B1
Described is a process for conveying a powdered material from a storage bin to a delivery destination. The process utilizes an air permeation system within a hopper to facilitate the flow of material. Intermittent blasts of high pressure air are used to clean the air permeation nozzles. After the material flows from the hopper, a screw feeder with a variable speed motor is utilized for processing the material. The powdered material is then guided to a flow measurement instrument which measures the flow of the material through the process. The variable speed motor is responsive to the measurements made by the flow measurement instrument. The material is then transferred into a powdered material feeder where it is pulled through the feeder with gravity and negative pressure. The powdered material feeder then moves the material into a rotary airlock where it is deposited into a pneumatic convey airline.
US08087846B2
This application concerns traffic control devices, such as bollards, configured for storage of a bollard coupling adapted to extend between a bollard and an adjacent structure. Bollards are disclosed that comprise a body defining an interior body volume and a first aperture. A bracket fixedly attached to the body defines a second aperture. The bracket is configured to reversibly receive a bollard engaging member fixedly attached to an end portion of a bollard coupling. In a first position, at least a portion of the bollard engaging member extends through the first aperture, and in a second position, the portion of the bollard engaging member extends through the second aperture. A cap being releasably secured to the body provides access to the interior body volume and at least partially retains the bollard engaging member. Associated bollard arrangements and methods are also disclosed.
US08087845B2
An integrated locking assembly that includes a linear locking mechanism and a rotary locking mechanism. The linear locking mechanism employs opposing locking plates having aligned bores that can lock onto a rod extending through the bores. The rotary locking mechanism includes rollers positioned between a housing and a cam where the rollers are wedged between the housing and the cam to lock the rotary locking mechanism and are positioned in an open position between the housing and the cam to unlock the rotary locking mechanism.
US08087842B2
A multi-compartment, wiper-applicator package comprising a container holding a first formulation, a wiper, initially sealed at both ends and a barbed tool. Within the sealed wiper is a quantity of secondary ingredients that is to be mixed with the first formulation in the container. The barbed tool is able to pierce the top seal, then dislocate the bottom seal, completely separating the bottom seal from the wiper. Thereafter the barbed tool removes the top seal completely, so that, what remains, is a conventional wiper. The barbed tool can be inserted only to a defined depth in the wiper. This prevents the barbed tool from removing the wiper from the container.
US08087841B2
A retractable pen includes an improved triggering device (i.e., an actuating means), which is easy for manufacturing and user-friendly. The retractable pen has a pen-body having two pen-tubes, a pen-cartridge within the pen-body, and an actuating means. The actuating means not only triggers the movement of pen-cartridge (slidable protrusion/retraction of the pen-cartridge) but also, at the meantime, triggers length-change of pen-body (slidable movement between the two pen-tubes).
US08087837B2
A cassette unit includes: a cassette case which covers a printing medium and has a feeding opening for passing the printing medium when the printing medium is fed by a feeding roller of a printing apparatus body; a cassette hopper which receives the printing medium and comes in contact with or separates from the feeding roller in a state in which the cassette hopper is mounted in the printing apparatus body; and s shutter which is switched so as to allow the printing medium to pass through the feeding opening or to prevent the printing medium from passing through the feeding opening, the cassette case, the cassette hopper, and the shutter being formed integrally. The cassette hopper is bent in a direction in which the cassette hopper approaches the feeding roller in a first joint portion jointing with the cassette case to engage with a first engagement portion.
US08087836B2
A miniature tripod assembly adapted to mount to the bottom of a camera, or other device, and to be small enough to fit within the profile of the device. The miniature tripod assembly may use ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping. In some embodiments, device may use flexible and extendable legs.
US08087831B2
It is prevented that magnetic foreign matter adheres the magnet encoder 3a to deteriorate the reliability of rotation speed detection with the sensor 4a. The encoder 3a is provided on the outside of the combined seal ring 19 with reference to the bearing interior space 24, and the sensor 4a faces the encoder 3a. The knuckle 21 is placed close to the housing 33 of the drive shaft member 28 of the constant velocity joint 27 to form a labyrinth seal 20. The width of the clearance of this labyrinth seal 20 is up to 40% of the pitch of adjacent S-poles and N-poles that are arranged on the detected surface of the encoder 3a. With this construction, larger foreign matter is prevented from attaching to the detected surface of the encoder 3a to solve the above subject.
US08087821B2
A heat flux differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is disclosed. The DSC can be configured with a highly conductive sample assembly enclosure. The enclosure can include a high emissivity coating. In one embodiment, the enclosure extends along a longitudinal direction that is about the same as that of an infrared lamp assembly used to heat the enclosure, thereby increasing the efficiency of heating the sample enclosure. In one embodiment, a gas-filled thermal resistor is used to couple the measurement assembly to a heat sink, such that samples can be rapidly heated and rapidly cooled.
US08087802B1
A cover for a spiral-type compact florescent lamp includes a cover body and a connector extending from the cover body to the compact florescent lamp and connecting the cover to the compact florescent lamp with the cover body disposed adjacent to the lamp coil structure and covering the lamp coil structure.
US08087801B2
The invention provides a light-emitting device, which includes a water-proof enclosure, a motion-actuated switch, a controller, a memory unit, a light-emitting array, a driving unit, and a battery. The motion-actuated switch is capable of generating a triggering signal if an external force presses on it. Furthermore, when the controller is under the start condition, it can selectively generate a lighting signal according to the triggering signal. The memory unit is applied for storing a plurality of default patterns. The light-emitting array includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes. The driving unit is capable of selecting one of the default patterns according to the lighting signal in a pre-determined way, and driving the light-emitting array lighting based on the default pattern. Particularly, the pre-determined way is in a proper sequence.
US08087797B2
An illumination device includes independent light sources and pivotable legs. In an embodiment, each independent light source includes a head having an illumination element; a body; a power source holder configured to receive a power source for powering the illumination element; a switch configured to control the independent light source; and an electrical circuit configured to place the independent light source and at least one other independent light source in an electrically coupled state. The switch may be configured to control an illumination state of both the independent light source and the at least one other independent light source when in the electrically coupled state. The illumination provided by the illumination device may be adjusted to different angles with respect to a longitudinal axis of the illumination device by rotating each of the plurality of pivotable heads. The pivotable legs are movable between a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration.
US08087789B2
A projection optical system includes a first refracting optical system having a plurality of lenses, a first reflecting optical system, and a second reflecting optical system. The first reflecting optical system is disposed on a side of a projection port with respect to an optical axis of the first refracting optical system, and has a positive optical power to reflect light incident through the first refracting optical system in a direction opposite to the side of the projection port. The second reflecting optical system is operable to reflect the light reflected on the first reflecting optical system toward the projection port.
US08087784B2
Systems and methods for displaying three-dimensional (3D) images are described. In particular, the systems can include a display block made from a transparent material with optical elements three-dimensionally disposed therein. Each optical element becomes luminous when illuminated by a light ray. The systems can also include a computing device configured to generate two-dimensional (2D) images formatted to create 3D images when projected on the display block, by a video projector coupled to the computing device. The video projector is configured to project the 2D images on the block to create the 3D images by causing a set of the passive optical elements to become luminous. Various other systems and methods are described for displaying 3D images.
US08087782B2
The invention relates to devices and methods for selecting IOLs for implantation and eye models useful with the methods. One method comprises the steps of determining the axial eye length, the pupil size at a desired light level; the desired postoperative refraction; determining an aspheric representation of the corneal curvature and determining the location of the plane of fixation of the IOL following implantation.
US08087781B2
An optotype presenting apparatus, by which red and green optotypes can be visually perceived independently by right and left eyes even if red filters and/or green filters have different wavelength transmission characteristics, comprises a color display, a unit having a switch for selecting a test chart including visual acuity and red-green binocular visual performance test charts, wherein the binocular test chart includes the optotypes and is used in the test performed with the filters in front of the eyes, a memory storing color adjustment data in which at least one of color tones of the optotypes is varied with the characteristic of one of the filters, a unit for inputting a signal for selecting one of the data, and a unit controlling the display to display the selected chart and adjusting the tones by reading the selected data from the memory when the binocular test chart is selected.
US08087777B2
The present invention provides a scleral lens which includes channels on its posterior bearing surface that improve the flow of tears between the bearing surface of the device and the underlying scleral eyes tissue into the space between the optic of the lens and cornea. The channels are disposed on the inside surface of the lens and extend generally radially from the inside of the haptic and the outside rim of the lens. Various configurations are possible for the channels, as described in more detail below. Additionally, the channels can have a serpentine or arcuate configuration to allow for the appropriate amount of fluid flow between the space under the lens and the scleral surface of the eye. In another embodiment, microchannels can be formed in the lens to increase the oxygen permeability of the lens. The microchannels can have many configurations that reduce the volume of the lens material.
US08087774B2
Disclosed is a side shield which can be easily assembled with and separated from the eyewear temple, identically widen together with the eyewear temple, and prevent the external impact from being transferred to and reaching the eyewear. The side shield includes a shield body surrounding a hinge, through which an eyewear temple is connected with an eyewear frame of an eyewear, and covering a side space of the eyewear frame, to prevent foreign substances from entering the eyes, the shield body including blocking wings formed at an upper part and a lower part of the shield body, and a coupling means for maintaining a coupling state between the shield body and the eyewear temple, the coupling means being provided at the shield body and including a coupler assembled with the eyewear temple and a fastener for fastening the coupler. Therefore, the side shield is easily detachable and further includes the elastic means, to improve the wearing comfort.
US08087773B2
A system for maintaining depth of focus in an ink jet printer between a series of print heads and corrugated media includes a vacuum transport in combination with an acquisition cylinder positioned upstream of the series of print heads in order to help the vacuum transport acquire the corrugated media and work in conjunction with a series of star wheels distributed about and positioned immediately adjacent to each of the series of print heads to suppress cross process direction curl.
US08087772B2
The present invention relates to assembling identification documents in an over-the-counter issuing environment. In one implementation of the present invention, we provide an ink jet printer-based assembling system. An identification document substrate receives ink jet printed information. The printed substrate is laminated. In another implementation, a carrier web carries lamination pieces. Both the carrier web and the document substrate include form feed holes or other registration notches. The holes or notches are used to align the substrate with the lamination pieces, and to align a laminated document substrate for final cutting.
US08087761B2
A liquid discharging head includes: a plurality of nozzles that discharge liquid droplets; and a plurality of piezoelectric elements that generate pressure for discharging liquid droplets from the respective nozzles, wherein the piezoelectric elements are performed with repolarization process to set non-uniformity of the droplet discharging characteristics of the nozzles to be in a predetermined range by combining adjustment of a polarization sensitivity and adjustment of a polarization voltage for each of the piezoelectric elements.
US08087753B2
A silicon based module, including: a substrate; a first chip assembly fixed to the substrate, the first chip assembly including a first silicon chip and a first driver die having electrical circuitry; and a second chip assembly fixed to the substrate, the second chip assembly including a second silicon chip and a second driver die having electrical circuitry. Portions of the first and second chip assemblies are aligned in a longitudinal direction for the substrate; and portions of the first and second silicon chips are aligned in a width direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. Method for forming a silicon based module.
US08087752B2
A printhead assembly including a printhead module and a mounting structure is described. The printhead module is mounted on a receiving surface of the mounting structure and includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge. The first and second edges extend beyond edges of the receiving surface by a first distance in a first direction and are positioned between featured edges of the mounting structure in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Each featured edge includes a first feature protruding from the featured edge by a second distance in the first direction, where the second distance is greater than the first distance. The first features extend beyond the first and second edges of the printhead module. Each featured edge includes a recessed second feature configured to receive a first feature of a neighboring mounting structure.
US08087750B2
There is provided a liquid droplet discharging device including: a liquid passage member provided with a liquid passage into which a liquid is supplied; plural nozzles provided for the liquid passage member and each discharging the liquid contained in the liquid passage; a holding member that holds both end portions of the liquid passage member; and a drive unit that drives at least one of the holding members, and deforms the liquid passage member from a concave state to a convex state in the liquid droplet discharge direction, imparts inertial force to the liquid, and discharges liquid droplets from the nozzles.
US08087746B2
A printer and method include a first receiver configured to receive fluid ejected by one or more print heads on a first side of a media and a second receiver configured to receive fluid ejected by the one or more print heads on a second side of the media, wherein the second receiver is movable relative to the first receiver.
US08087739B2
A drawing case for an electronic information storage medium comprises a case body; a panel including a holder, a locking tool slot, a first through hole and a plurality of heat dissipation holes; a locking tool mounted in the locking tool slot and connected to an engaging piece that is provided with a first resilient element; a handle including a hook, one end of the handle being pivotally disposed on the holder, wherein the hook passes through the first through hole and engages with the engaging piece and is propped against the first resilient element. In this manner, the purpose of ease of drawing can be achieved by pressing the locking tool to open the handle, thereby not only significantly reducing manufacturing costs and assembly/disassembly complexity, such as eliminating the use of screws, but also enhancing the heat dissipation efficiency.
US08087735B1
A free standing furniture apparatus including a furniture unit having a unit height dimension, a base including a base wall having a base height dimension and first and second separated base wall ends, the base wall at least in part circumscribing a base space where the base wall includes a top edge surface that resides substantially in a single edge plane and a back wall member supported by the base wall proximate the first and second ends of the base wall member and extending substantially vertically upward from the base wall member and substantially perpendicular to the single edge plane so that there is a receiving space that is unobstructed by the back wall member and that is above the base space for receiving the furniture unit, the back wall member having a back wall height dimension that is greater than the unit height dimension so that at least a portion of the back wall member is observable above the furniture unit when the furniture unit is received within the receiving space, wherein the furniture unit is receivable on the top edge surface of the base wall within the receiving space.
US08087730B2
A combined backrest for a chair comprises a left side plastic fastener, a right side plastic fastener and at least one wooden rest board. The left side plastic fastener is fixedly connected to the left side rest staff. The right side plastic fastener is fixedly connected to the right side rest staff, and the left edge part and the right edge pad of the wooden rest board are fixedly connected to the left side plastic fastener and the right side plastic fastener, respectively.
US08087718B2
An arrangement for suspension of an operator cab on a machine frame in order to permit controlled motion of the cab relative to the frame is provided. The arrangement includes at least one first suspension member disposed between an underside of the cab and the frame for supporting the cab on the frame. The arrangement further includes at least one second suspension member disposed between a rear side of the cab and a rigid support structure and wherein the second suspension member is arranged at an elevated position relative to the underside of the cab. The second suspension member is adapted to provide an increased rigidity against cab movements both in the longitudinal and lateral direction of the machine during operation of the work machine.
US08087716B2
A cap for the cargo bed of a pickup truck assembled on the truck including a base support frame comprised of a pair of parallel side by side slotted side guide rails and a hoop support frame pivotally mounted to each of the opposite ends of the side guide rails so as to able to be swung up to an erect position after the base support frame is installed on the pickup truck cargo bed side walls. An elongated slotted top guide rail is connected at either end to the top of each hoop support frame. Flexible side panels are inserted in respective slots on the side guide rails and top guide rail assuming a convex shape to cover the cargo bed. End panels close off either end of the cap, a rear panel may be hinged to the rear hoop support frame to be operable and may be transparent to provide a window. The hoop support frames and end panels may be adjustable in width to be matched to the cargo bed width. The cap can be collapsed into a tonneau cover by lowering the hoop support frames and the flexible side panels overly overlapping each other.
US08087707B1
A multifunction device for people with limited mobility allows a person to perform a variety of everyday activities with greater ease using a single device. The device has a gripper, which may be used as a shoehorn or to pick up small items; a leg lift, which may be used to reduce stress on the hip and/or knee when making leg movements; and a finger assembly, which may be used to push or pull light objects such as bedding and clothing.
US08087703B2
A component connecting structure includes a first component having a flange portion, a second component having a flange portion, and a clip for holding the flange portions in a butted state. The clip formed into a generally polygonal shape has a spring body having first and second circumferential end portions overlapped with each other in a diameter reduced free state. The spring body has slits for inserting the flange portions butted against each other in the diameter reduced free state. The first and second circumferential end portions have a temporary engaging protrusion and a temporary engaging ledge, respectively. The temporary engaging ledge is engaged with the temporary engaging protrusion to hold a diameter expanded state of the spring body.
US08087696B2
A component of a vehicle occupant restraint system, the vehicle occupant restraint system having a webbing with a lap belt portion and a shoulder belt portion contiguous with the lap belt portion, the component including a web engaging device adapted to toggle between an open and an engaged condition, wherein in the open condition the webbing is moveable relative to the web engaging device in two directions along the webbing, wherein in the engaged condition the webbing is moveable relative to the web engaging device in only one direction along the webbing, and wherein the web engaging device is lockable in the open condition. A vehicle occupant restraint system including a webbing with lap and shoulder belt portions, a component having a web engaging device adapted to toggle between an open and an engaged condition, and a tensioner configured to respond to at least one of the open and engaged conditions.
US08087691B2
A steering wheel unit for a motor vehicle. The steering wheel unit has a steering wheel and an airbag module (30) located in the hub area of the steering wheel. This airbag module forms a housing (32), an airbag (52) folded into the housing, and a gas generator (54). The airbag module can be pushed down against the force of at least one spring element to activate a horn, whereby positioning means are present which define the position of the airbag module in relation to the steering wheel. In order to achieve a high degree of operational reliability and a very exact positioning of the airbag module in the steering wheel, at least one retaining means (28;38,68) is present which acts between the airbag module and the steering wheel (28;38,68). This retaining means is ineffective in the absence of outer forces and when the airbag module (30) is pressed down to activate a horn.
US08087688B2
A collapsible pushchair can be expanded into a deployed state for carrying a child and collapsed into a portable state for being carried as a piece of luggage. Transformation of the pushchair between its deployed and portable states is enabled by the use of rotationally mounted chair legs.
US08087681B2
A reinforced skateboard deck adapted to connect to a set of trucks and wheels to form a skateboard for riding with the deck having a reinforced region constructed to resist rupturing of the deck and a protective side barrier constructed to prevent wear of the reinforced region during use.
US08087674B2
A firewall sealing assembly is provided for use between a firewall and a penetrating member. The assembly comprises a primary seal, a secondary seal, and a plurality of retaining rings. The primary seal is configured to provide a primary seal between the firewall and the penetrating member. The secondary seal is configured to provide a secondary seal between the firewall and the penetrating member. The secondary seal is positioned spaced apart from the primary seal to define a seal cavity there between.
US08087669B2
The present invention provides a method of suitably conveying a sheet-shaped member 32. The method of the present invention is performed in an equipment 20 including: a blower duct 22; a sheet feeding unit 28 for feeding the sheet-shaped member 32 to the blower duct 22; and an air stream unit 24 for generating an air stream in the blower duct 22, and the method comprises the steps of: forming a temporary deformity 32b in the sheet-shaped member 32; feeding the sheet-shaped member from the sheet feeding unit 28 to the blower duct 22; and conveying the sheet-shaped member by applying a wind pressure to the deformity 32b.
US08087668B2
A conveying and dividing mechanism in which a first conveyance path and a second conveyance path facing each other can bidirectionally convey banknotes between each other and that can divide into multiple-direction banknotes conveyed from both the first conveyance path and the second conveyance path. A first dividing member is rockably provided at the intersection of the first conveyance path, the second conveyance path, a third conveyance path, and a fourth conveyance path. The first dividing member enables banknotes to be bidirectionally conveyed between the first and second conveyance paths. Further, the first dividing member enables bank notes conveyed from the first and second conveyance paths to be divided into the third and fourth conveyance paths.
US08087652B2
A substrate supporting apparatus includes first and second shafts spaced by a distance that corresponds to or exceeds a width of a substrate, and at least one wire to support the substrate. The wire has ends coupled to respective ones of the first and second shafts. The wire is raised and lowered to place a substrate onto a lower electrode in a substrate processing chamber and to remove the substrate when processing is completed.
US08087650B2
A clamping device is capable of engaging a clamping object with an inner wall of hole or side wall of the clamping object.The clamping device 1 is provided with a rod support for moving an engagement portion 25 of a clamping rod 3 in a direction roughly rectangular to the longitudinal direction of the clamping rod 3 and switchably rotatably supports the clamping rod 3 in a clamping main body across a clamping position and a clamp release position, a piston drive mechanism 6 for driving a piston 4 across the clamping position and the clamp release position, and a cam mechanism 7 for driving the engagement portion 25 in the clamping direction by the driving force of piston drive mechanism 6 for driving the piston 4 to the clamping position.
US08087644B2
The present invention provides a packing element comprising at least one sheet having a plurality of deformations, the sheet being operable to form a folded or helical configuration wherein adjacent portions of the at least one sheet are spaced to allow for flow of at least one of fluid, air and gas therebetween.
US08087638B2
Apparatuses to control a fluid flow characteristic of fluid regulator bypass valves are described. An example apparatus includes an insert having a body sized to be inserted in a passage of a bypass valve. The body includes an opening to fluidly couple a bore of the body to an outer surface of the body. The opening being shaped to produce a predetermined flow characteristic in response to at least a portion of a restrictor of the bypass valve moving relative to the opening to vary a fluid flow through the opening and the bypass valve.
US08087633B2
The present invention is a novel canvas carrier and holder formed of a single handle apparatus to which is anchored one or more flat J-Hooks and a method of using the canvas carrier holder.
US08087628B2
A fixing mechanism includes a housing, a clamping component installed on the housing for clamping a display, a driving component connected to the clamping component for driving the clamping component in a first direction, and an elastic component installed inside the housing and connected to the driving component for providing an elastic force to the driving component in a second direction so that the clamping component is capable of clamping the display in a horizontal direction and a perpendicular direction. The first direction and the second direction are different from the horizontal direction and the perpendicular direction.
US08087623B2
The vertical display mounting device 100 comprises a vertical mounting attachment member 200 and at least one display mount 300 wherein the vertical mounting attachment member 200 may be the combination of a vehicle attachment member 400 and a vertical mounting member 500. The vertical display mounting device 100 may further include brackets 600 for attaching the vehicle attachment member 400 with the vehicle cab attachment points 14, 16 when the vehicle attachment member aperture 414, 416 and the vehicle cab 12 attachment points 14, 16 are not in alignment; an electrical mount 800; and a kit embodiment.
US08087622B2
A golf bag support for releasably retaining a golf bag having a longitudinal axis includes a base, a foot, and a pair of arms. The base has a bottom for contacting a surface. The foot is connected to the base and movable between a first position and a second position, the second position arranging the foot to stabilize the base on the surface. The pair of arms extends from the base. The arms are spaced from each other to define a seat sized to receive the golf bag. The arms are movable relative to each other.
US08087602B1
A mortar and pestle, the pestle having a dome-shaped top formed to be cupped within the palm of the hand, a body, and a bottom portion, the bottom portion formed to include a male apex. The interior of the mortar is formed to include an inverted frustum-shaped wall and an interior bowl extending from the interior inverted frustum-shaped wall. The bowl includes a female apex which cooperates with the male apex and into which the male apex may nest. The pestle has an external surface profile which is substantially similar to, and cooperates with, a mortar internal surface profile. Rotating the top of the pestle in a smooth, continuous motion about a circular locus processes material placed in the mortar as the pestle profile sweeps the mortar profile.
US08087597B2
A spray gun structure comprises a control valve mounted into an assembling chamber of a body and regulated by an adjusting device to control the on/off of water discharge thereby. A coupling sleeve is joined to the body with an abutment surface of a water-sealing sleeve abutting tight against a water-sealing area of the control valve, and protruding tracks engaged with guide recesses of a water-guiding element. A spray head having a connecting sleeve and a restrain collar mounted thereto is fitted to the body and screw-joined to the water-sealing element. The connecting sleeve is mounted to abut against the coupling sleeve, and the restrain collar has restrain blocks to restrict protrusions of the body. Therefore, when the spray head is pivotally rotated to and forth in its place, the water-guiding element can be synchronically actuated to move linearly forwards or backwards to verify the pattern of water spray thereby.
US08087589B2
A system and method of scanning machine-readable symbols with a signal source modulated by a local oscillator to create by heterodyne mixing upconverted signals at the sum and difference frequencies of the local oscillator frequency and the frequency of the time-varying reflectance off the scanned symbols is disclosed. The reflected heterodyned signal is detected by a receiver. Ambient noise is filtered out from the reflected signal, and the received signal at the sum and difference frequencies is processed.
US08087586B2
Disclosed is a transponder of a radio frequency identification system. Connected to a controller is a memory storing r-pages of k-bits of data. A first page includes an ID code relating to an integrated chip forming part of the transponder. The controller is configured, after the transponder has been interrogated by a reader, automatically and on a transponder talk only basis, to transmit transponder ID data including a concatenation of pages. Each page is led by a respective m-bit header. The header includes: (a) a first part having a random number, (b) a second part having for the first page in the ID data, a total number of pages in the ID data and for any subsequent page, a page number of the page in the memory and; (c) a third part having a sequential number for the page in the ID data.
US08087583B2
A method of associating first media with at least second media is described where the first media comprises encoded first auxiliary information. The first auxiliary information is auxiliary to the first media. The method includes receiving electronic data representing at least a portion of the first media, the electronic data being obtained from a portable storage device; decoding the encoded first auxiliary information from the electronic data to obtain the first auxiliary information; providing second auxiliary information, wherein the second auxiliary information is based on the first auxiliary information and is auxiliary to the second media; and encoding the second auxiliary information in the second media by altering data representing the second media to yield encoded second media, wherein the second media comprises an electronic form, storing the encoded second media in a storage device in a handheld device.
US08087580B2
A method and apparatus for facilitating a business transaction wherein a merchant/operator is presented with transaction-related information in the operator's preferred language and currency, wherein the customer is presented with transaction-related information in the customer's preferred language and currency, and wherein the customer's language and currency are different from the operator's language and currency. This allows persons who speak different languages and who are used to conducting transactions in different currencies to readily engage in business transactions. The method and apparatus can be employed, for example, in a credit card or debit card terminal, thereby allowing a merchant to easily accommodate tourists from foreign countries. The customer's language and/or currency preferences may be obtained from a credit card/debit card, cellular telephone, smart card, or other portable memory medium prior to or during the transaction, thereby obviating the need to manually select a preferred language and currency for each transaction.
US08087577B2
A system that includes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag reader, said reader includes a reading section, a processing section, memory and a transmitting section; wherein the reading section is configured to read tag data stored on one or more RFID tags, the processing section is configured to process this data and the transmitting section is configured to transmit the result as transmitted data; such that the transmitting section is also configured to transmit updated tag data to the or each of the RFID tags, said updated tag data replacing some or all of the tag data stored on the RFID tag to be updated. The system further includes one or more RFID tags, an intermediate database and a customer database such that the intermediate database is configured to receive the transmitted data, convert it into intermediate data, which is in a format accepted by the customer database, then transmit this to the customer database.
US08087567B2
A process for joining ceramic components, wherein the components which are to be joined consist of sintered nonoxide ceramic, and the components are brought into contact with one another in a diffusion-welding process in the presence of a shielding gas atmosphere and are joined with little deformation, under the application of a temperature of at least 1600° C., preferably over 1800° C., particularly preferably over 2000° C., and if appropriate a load, to form a monolith, the components which are to be joined experiencing plastic deformation in the direction in which force is introduced of less than 5%, preferably less than 1%.
US08087556B2
An electric driver includes a hook portion which is constituted by a deformable hook-like portion and a connecting portion for connecting the hook-like portion to the handle. The hook-like portion is constituted by a base portion connected to the connecting portion and a bent portion continuous to the base portion, and a front end portion continuous to the bent portion and arranged at a position substantially opposed to the base portion. The front end portion and the base portion can be proximate to and remote from each other. The connecting portion holds the hook-like portion in a direction substantially the same as a direction in which the handle extends. The hook-like portion is pivotably held on a first rotating axis center extending in substantially the same direction as the handle.
US08087555B2
A garment organizer includes a plurality of garment holders configured and adapted to hold an garment, and a connection element connecting the plurality of garment holders, facilitating viewing of individual garments. A method of organizing garments, includes the steps of providing a garment organizer, placing a garment on at least one garment holder, and storing the garment organizer and garments.
US08087552B2
The invention relates to an adapter (1) for aerosol cans, particularly for discharging mounting foams, said adapter comprising a receiving device (2) for the valve of the aerosol can, a conveying tube (3) for can content to be discharged which is arranged at the receiving device (2), a connection (4) on the conveying tube (3) to accommodate a trunk (16) used to enable the can content to be discharged in a well-aimed manner, a handle (5) to actuate the receiving device (2) counter to the valve of the can as well as holding means (6) for fixing the adapter to a crimping lip of the dome (15) of the can, with the receiving device (2) interacting with and having a sealing effect on the valve disk of the aerosol can and the receiving device (2) being flexibly integrated into the adapter (1).
US08087550B2
A dispensing device for dispensing viscous materials wherein the dispenser is convertible to a form which dispenses viscous material packaged in either collapsible form, cartridge form, or bulk form, wherein the components necessary for the conversion of the device to dispense viscous material packaged in collapsible form, cartridge form, or bulk form are retained within the body of the dispensing device, and more preferably are retained on the piston rod, to prevent loss of the components necessary for conversion of the dispensing device to dispense viscous material packaged in either collapsible form, cartridge form, or bulk form.
US08087546B2
A dispenser is provided for containing and dispensing a liquid or pourable solid product. The dispenser includes a shell having a bottom and a continuous side wall, which together define a hollow cavity. A lid assembly covers the rigid shell and includes a central opening. A flexible pouch is arranged for locating within the hollow cavity and for containing the product to be dispensed. The flexible pouch includes a pouring spout having an outlet opening. The pouring spout is arranged for extending through the lid assembly opening when the flexible pouch is situated within the hollow cavity. The lid assembly additionally includes a set of clamping members positioned to surround the pouring spout. The clamping members are responsive to actuation and arranged to move from a retracted position to a clamping position to prevent movement of the pouring spout when situated within the opening.
US08087543B2
An electric soap dispenser that includes sensors for detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can include various features for enhancing the performance thereof. For example, the dispenser can include an additional button for manual operation of the pump. Additionally, the dispenser can detect the voltage of a power supply and compensate for a drop in voltage of the power supply so as to produce more uniform dispensations of the liquid product.
US08087536B2
Composite pressurizable structures overwound with fibers or braided bundles of fibers are described. The pressurizable structures comprise one or more axial sections which themselves comprise both concave and convex surfaces. The shape characteristics are related to geodesic as well as to non-geodesic trajectories of the fibers. Axial sections of the pressurizable structures can be rotated, expanded, or bended with respect to their longitudinal axis. Such pressurizable structures may be used in pressure vessels, flexible pipelines, spring elements, robotic actuators, adaptive buildings among other uses. Manufacturing techniques facilitated by the present structures allow for the construction of very large structures.
US08087534B2
A cryogenic storage tank having an inner vessel disposed within an outer vessel. The fluid flow lines that extend from the interior of the inner vessel to the exterior of the outer vessel have both corrugated- and non-corrugated portions. The corrugated portions advantageously facilitate the bending of the fluid flow lines into a desired orientation while the non-corrugated portions provide rigidity and stiffness for the fluid flow lines.
US08087530B2
A container closure includes a utensil formed of a first polymer material, and a lid formed of a second polymer material, the utensil being detachably adhered to the lid by a chemical bond between the first and second polymer materials in the absence of any adhesive or bonding agent. A method for making the closure comprises the steps of introducing a quantity of a first polymer material into a mold to form a utensil, transferring the utensil from the first mold into a second mold or structurally modifying the first mold, and introducing a quantity of a second polymer material into the second mold or modified first mold to form a lid in such a manner that the utensil is detachably adhered to the lid by a chemical bond between the first and second polymer materials in the absence of any adhesive or bonding agent.
US08087527B2
A container system for containing a product. The container system includes a primary container containing a primary product and at least one secondary container containing a secondary product. The secondary container is releasably connected to the primary container.
US08087523B2
A closure assembly (11) for a baby's bottle (10) comprising a regulator cap (16) which is adapted to be mounted to the bottle (10) and having one or more apertures (22), a teat collar (17) threaded to the bottle and moveable between an open and closed position and a teat (18) coupled to the teat collar (17) and having an outlet (45) for passage of fluid, the teat having (17) a base flange (38) adapted for cooperation with the regulator cap (16) such that in the open position of said teat collar (17) fluid can pass through the one or more apertures (22) and through the teat outlet (45) and air can pass between the base flange (38) and regulator cap (16) into the bottle (10) through one or more of the apertures (22). In the closed position, fluid is prevented from passage through the one or more apertures (22) into the teat (16) and air is prevented from passing between the base flange (38) and regulator cap (16) into the bottle (10).
US08087522B2
A shelving system includes a product, a base, a tray insert, a template, and a placement clip. The base has a top surface forming a receptacle and includes a hanger assembly for releasably securing the base to a shelving unit positioned in a retail environment. The tray insert is releasably secured into the receptacle formed in the top surface of the base. The tray insert has a plurality of slots spaced along a length of the tray insert. The template is received over the tray insert to cover the tray insert. The template has a plurality of openings through the tray insert to selectively expose a desired subset of slots. The placement clip is releasably secured through one of the openings in the template into a pair of the desired subset of slots. The placement clip acts to releasably secure the template to the tray insert and is adapted to maintain the product.
US08087515B2
A separation apparatus contains: a dispersion liquid introduction path to which a dispersion liquid containing particles is introduced; a separation path that has a inclined upper face inclined with respect to a direction of gravity and separates the particles; and a discharge path from which particles separated by the separation path are discharged.
US08087500B2
A vibrational energy absorbing apparatus 1 includes: a reciprocating member 2 which is reciprocatable in H directions between positive and negative maximum displacement positions D±max with respect to an origin position O; a damping-force generating means 3 for generating a damping force R with respect to the reciprocating motion of the reciprocating member 2 in the H directions; and a controlling means 4 for controlling the damping-force generating means 3 so as to cause the damping-force generating means 3 to generate a fixed damping force R in the respective movement of the reciprocating member 2 in the H direction from the positive and negative maximum displacement position D±max to the origin position O in the reciprocating motion thereof in the H directions, while causing the damping-force generating means 3 to substantially not generate the damping force R in the respective movement of the reciprocating member 2 in the H direction from the origin position O to the positive and negative maximum displacement position D±max following that movement in the H direction.
US08087488B2
A steering-by-wire-type steering apparatus for a vehicle which can detect an anomaly of a connecting-disconnecting device which selectively connects and disconnects an input member on a steering wheel side and an output member on a turnable wheel side based on a steering input operation quantity or a steering state quantity.
US08087485B2
A straddle-type vehicle that effectively cools an engine using running wind while inhibiting damage to the engine caused by contact with the road surface or objects thrown up by a front wheel. An under cover is disposed beneath a leg shield. An opening that opens toward the front of the vehicle is formed in the under cover. A fender lower end section is positioned above a lower end section of the under cover. An engine is disposed to the rear of the opening.
US08087475B2
An electric power tool has a housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, a drive motor contained in the housing, an electronic unit for controlling and regulating the drive unit, a fan a main air conduit extending between the inlet opening and the outlet opening of the housing, the drive motor being situated in the main air conduit supplyable with cooling air, and a heat sink operative for indirectly cooling the electronic unit.
US08087473B2
An apparatus and method for horizontal drilling are provided. The apparatus has: (A) a thrust frame; (B) a carriage on the thrust frame; (C) a wheel truck, wherein a rearward portion of the thrust frame can be supported in a lowered position on the wheel truck; (D) a king pin for operatively connecting a forward portion of the thrust frame to a tractor; (E) a trailer-leg assembly that can be connected operatively between: (i) the forward portion of the thrust frame; and (ii) the ground; and wherein the trailer-leg assembly is capable of assisting in supporting the forward portion of the thrust frame: (a) in a raised position so a tractor can be connected for towing; and (b) in a lowered position where the forward portion of the thrust frame is in a lowered position adjacent the ground to assist in positioning the thrust frame in a position for drilling.
US08087471B2
An agricultural implement includes a framework configured to be towed behind a vehicle, and a plurality of shanks mounted to the framework and configured to engage the soil. A tillage point is mounted on each shank. Each shank tillage point includes a body having a top surface and a nose extending from the top surface. The tillage point also includes two wings each disposed on a lateral side of the body and extending laterally outward. In certain embodiments, a slope of the nose relative to a horizontal plane of movement of the tillage point through soil is greater than a slope of the top surface of the body. In further embodiments, the wings are configured to engage the soil at a shallower depth than the nose, and/or a tip of each wing is configured to engage the soil at a greater depth than a respective wing root. In yet further embodiments, the tillage point includes a boss positioned forward of openings configured to receive a fastener for coupling the tillage point to a shank.
US08087470B2
In an embodiment, a tillage point includes a body having a top surface and a nose extending from the top surface. The tillage point also includes two wings each disposed on a lateral side of the body and extending laterally outward. In certain embodiments, a slope of the nose relative to a horizontal plane of movement of the tillage point through soil is greater than a slope of the top surface of the body. In further embodiments, the wings are configured to engage the soil at a shallower depth than the nose, and/or a tip of each wing is configured to engage the soil at a greater depth than a respective wing root. In yet further embodiments, the tillage point includes a boss positioned forward of openings configured to receive a fastener for coupling the tillage point to a shank.
US08087465B2
A locking tree cap for use on a subsea tree. The tree cap may be installed and retrieved using a remote operated vehicle. The tree cap may include deflectable collet fingers that lock the tree cap to a tree spool. The deflectable collet fingers may be adapted, such as with enlarged heads, to extend into recesses of the tree spool when the tree cap has been landed on the tree spool. The tree cap may be locked onto a tree spool before energizing sealing members within the bores of the subsea tree, thereby protecting the sealing members from damage during the installation of the tree cap onto the tree spool. The tree cap may include soft landing means such as a plastic cap, on the end of stabs to protect the sealing members as the tree cap is landed. The tree cap may include a secondary locking mechanism used to further secure the tree cap to the tree spool.
US08087461B2
Production logging apparatus and method are provided. The apparatus comprises a coupling module, an electronic module, a micro-winch, a docking station, and a micro-production logging tool. The coupling module provides mechanical support for the production logging apparatus below a pumping arrangement disposed in a wellbore, and allows flow to enter the pumping arrangement. The electronic module comprises a winch controller, a powering module and a telemetry module, and adapted to automate the micro-winch. The docking station comprises a latching mechanism for ensuring positive engagement of a micro-production logging tool with the production logging apparatus during docking. And the micro-production logging tool comprises at least one sensor and is coupled to the micro-winch by a cable for regular production logging runs to measure the evolution of well characteristics.
US08087459B2
A packer provides multiple seals when deployed downhole. Exposed to an activating agent, a swellable element on the packer's mandrel expands radially outward to form a seal with the borehole wall. Deformable elements, are disposed on the mandrel adjacent the swellable element. These deformable elements deform outward to the surrounding borehole wall to at least partially isolate the downhole annulus and the swellable element. Bias units releasable affixed on the tool adjacent the deformable elements can deform the elements. These bias units can be released either by swelling of the swellable element or by fluid pressure. Once released, the bias units are axially biased toward the deformable elements to deform them. In this way, the packer can form multiple seals with the borehole wall, and the deformable elements can isolate the swellable element from the downhole annulus, which can keep the swellable element from degrading or being overly extruded.
US08087458B2
A removable hydraulic set packer has a piston activated by fluid in the bore of the packer's mandrel. The piston disengages from the mandrel and pushes a lower wedge unit towards an upper wedge unit. The wedge units push a slip outward from the mandrel toward the surrounding casing. The packer uses a delay between the setting of the slip and the compression of a packing element. In this way, the piston's movement does not compress the packing element until the slip has been able to fully engage the casing. Once the slip is set, the piston assembly can then move a lower gage ring and compresses the packing element against a fixed gage ring fixed. The delay can use a temporary connection between the piston and the lower wedge unit and can use a shoulder distanced from the lower gage ring. Alternatively, a secondary piston with dogs can provide the delay.
US08087453B2
A programmable controlled heat dissipating fan is comprised of a base, a stator assembly, a magnet frame assembly, a fan blade assembly, an inductor set, a first circuit board and a second circuit board. The stator assembly is firmly installed in the base, while the magnet assembly is sleeved into the periphery of the stator assembly. The fan blade assembly is rotated through the alternatively changing magnetic field produced by the stator winding and magnet frame, while the second circuit board is rotated and powered by electromagnetic coupling. The data content stored in the data repository is loaded by the microprocessor to drive the light emitting unit to display.
US08087446B2
A system for producing cast components from molten metal. One form of the present invention includes a system for the precision pouring of molten metal within a casting mold. The precision pouring system is driven by a pressure differential.
US08087438B2
Methods to detect when a human body contacts a predetermined portion of a machine are disclosed. The methods distinguish contact with a person from contact with other materials. The methods are particularly applicable in woodworking equipment such as power saws to distinguish contact between a person and the blade of the saw from contact between the blade and wet or green wood. Woodworking machines and memory devices for use in woodworking machines having safety systems designed to detect a dangerous condition between a human and a dangerous portion of the woodworking machine and to trigger some action to mitigate the dangerous condition are also disclosed.
US08087433B2
An apparatus for forming a cabling media using a wire pair including first and second conductor members, each of the first and second conductor members including a respective conductor and a respective insulation cover surrounding the conductor thereof, includes a wire pair twisting device and a wire pair twist modulator. The wire pair twisting device is adapted to twist the first and second conductor members about one another to form a twisted wire pair. The wire pair twist modulator is upstream of the wire pair twisting device. The wire pair twist modulator includes an engagement member to hold the first and second conductor members at a hold location to restrict rotation of the first and second conductor members about one another. The apparatus defines a twist zone extending from the hold location to a twist initiation location of the wire pair twisting device. The wire pair twist modulator is operable to move the engagement member along a control axis to modulate the length of the twist zone and thereby the twist length of the wire pair to form the twisted wire pair with a twist length that purposefully varies along a length of the twisted wire pair.
US08087430B1
A leak detecting hose for transporting fluid. The hose has an inner and outer layer. The outer layer circumscribes the inner layer. A transition layer is located between the inner and outer layer, and the transition layer provides a flow path for the fluid in the hose when the inner layer is breached. A first conductive wire is placed in contact with the transition layer, and a second conductive wire is placed in contact with the transition layer. The conductive wires are adjacent to and spaced from each other. When the inner layer of the hose is breached, the first and second wires will contact the fluid in the flow path. The conductive wires are radially equidistant from the center of the hose and helically wound around the inner layer. The transition layer may include reinforcement material, which can have filaments that provide a flow path for the fluid.
US08087428B1
A two-stage regulator having a piston situated in a first stage for substantially reducing high pressures introduced into the regulator. The reduced pressure is exerted against the second stage that includes a plunger-actuated diaphragm that urges an actuator to open a ball valve at a selected pressure to allow fluid to flow out of the regulator at a desired reduced pressure.
US08087427B2
A vapor phase epitaxy apparatus having a processing chamber with a target workpiece such as a wafer being received therein is disclosed. This apparatus includes a first flow path which supplies the chamber with a gas needed for vapor phase epitaxial film formation on the wafer, and a valve unit for controlling the gas flow in the first flow path. The apparatus also includes a second flow path for supplying into the chamber a cleaner gas for cleaning of the interior of the chamber, and a third flow path for exhaust of residual gases within the chamber. The valve unit has a series combination of two-stage valves with a pressure switch being provided therebetween. An irregular gas mixture avoiding method for use with the apparatus is also disclosed.
US08087421B2
An illuminated apparatus for assisting movement is provided that is able to illuminate surface areas upon which one walks, hikes, skis, skates, runs, reads from, signals, examines or studies. The illuminated apparatus for assisting movement may provide both broad and focused illumination. The device may ensure safe footing, solid purchase, and stable load bearing by providing illuminated assistance for foot, ski and skate placement, as well as the placement of singular and multi-pole fixtures used for activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, skating, running, and walking. The illuminated apparatus for assisting movement may be compact and lightweight.
US08087420B1
The teachings provided herein are generally directed to gravity-powered, and self-opening umbrella systems that can also be wind-resistant. As evidenced from the teachings provided herein, the systems can be designed in a variety of configurations. The umbrella system can include a counterweight and system of pulleys, where the system of pulleys includes class 1 and class 2 pulleys configured with the counterweight to gain a mechanical advantage in the normal operation of the umbrella. The umbrella can be, for example, a patio umbrella in which the mechanical advantage provides a self-opening of an umbrella canopy and ease-of-retracting of the canopy for a user. And, the system can also be dynamic, such that it's also resistant to external forces, such as the wind.
US08087418B2
A deaeration device for bubbling dissolved air in the cleaning liquid by cavitation is connected on a cleaning-liquid circulation path so as to bubble the dissolved air in the cleaning liquid flowing through the cleaning-liquid circulation path, and the bubbled dissolved air flows back to the cleaning tank together with the cleaning liquid so that the bubbled dissolved air is ejected from the liquid surface of the cleaning tank to the outside of the tank. Moreover, a propeller-type pump is used as the circulating pump, and the dissolved air concentration of the cleaning liquid is controlled within a range of 2.5 to 3.5 mg/l.
US08087417B2
The applicator for cosmetics has one or more plies with scoring to form a handle area and a sample area. The scoring upon the top ply guides the applicator to bend into a handle area grasped by a woman's fingers and the sample area has a slight bow to apply eye shadow or other powdered cosmetic as the woman sees fit. The sample area has embossing in the bottom ply to retain pre-deposited cosmetics for further sampling.
US08087416B2
A hair clip having two body members pivotally coupled together by a concealed-spring hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism includes a housing and a spring concealed within the housing in normal use of the hair clip. In typical commercial embodiments, the housing is integrally formed with a first one of the body members in a one-step process. The housing defines an inner-end access opening through which the spring is inserted during the manufacturing process. The access opening is closed off by a second one of the body members when the hair clip is assembled for use. The hair clip may be manufactured with the housing initially fabricated on the first body member in a one-piece construction.
US08087412B2
A synthetic polyisoprene latex emulsion has pre-vulcanization composition and post vulcanization composition. The pre-vulcanization composition comprises soluble sulfur with high S8 ring structure that is catalytically broken by a zinc dithiocarbamate. Surfactants present in the pre-vulcanization composition wets synthetic polyisoprene particles and permeates small sized sulfur and accelerator molecules into the interior of these particles thereby pre-vulcanizing the particles. The degree of pre-vulcanization is verified by isopropanol index test. The latex emulsion has post-vulcanization composition with accelerators that crosslink inter-particle region during post vulcanization cure cycle. The dipped synthetic polyisoprene article is substantially uniformly cured both in the inter-particle and intra-particle regions and reliably exhibits high cross link density, uniform distribution of double bonds in TEM and zinc segregation at the boundaries or original particles by electron microprobe analysis. The films exhibit high tensile strength, tensile modulus, tear strength, burst pressure and burst volume.
US08087411B2
A fluid dispenser device including at least one individual reservoir (21) containing a single dose of fluid, such as powder, opening means (40) being provided for opening an individual reservoir (21) each time the device is actuated, thereby enabling the user to inhale the dose contained in said open reservoir, at least 90% of the fluid contained in said open reservoir being expelled from said reservoir during inhalation.
US08087399B2
An injection valve (62) has an injection body (38) with a first cavity (7), wherein a valve body (4) is at least partially disposed and wherein an armature collar (28) is axially movable. The valve body (4) has a second cavity (8), wherein a valve needle (10) is axially movable. An armature (12) is axially movable at least partially within the first cavity (7) and has a first cylindrical portion (32) and a second cylindrical portion (34), which is mechanically coupled to the valve needle (10). A coil assembly (40) is operable to magnetically actuate the armature (12) and the valve needle (10). The armature collar (28) partially takes in the second cylindrical portion (34). An armature collar spring (20) is adopted to supply the armature collar (28) with a spring load to push the armature collar (28) towards the first cylindrical portion (32).
US08087394B2
A combustion chamber system, for use in connection with internal combustion powered fastener-driving tools, comprises a dual-level combustion chamber comprising first and second pre-combustion and main combustion chambers, and a dual-level rotary valve mechanism which is operatively connected to the dual-level combustion chamber so as to control the intake of the air/fuel mixture as well as the scavenging or purging of the exhaust gases or combustion products. The first and second pre-combustion and main combustion chambers are also separated by a plate having a plurality of apertures defined therein whereby multiple jets or flame fronts are defined throughout the combustion chamber system.
US08087393B2
A valve apparatus for an internal combustion engine, the valve apparatus including: a main part having a wall section defining a valve cavity extending along a longitudinal length of the main part and an opening located in the wall section of the main part, the opening flow connected to the combustion chamber; an outer part configured and arranged so as to be reciprocally located in the valve cavity, the outer part having a wall section defining an inner passage extending along a longitudinal axis thereof; an inner part having a first end situated outside of the cavity and a second end situated within the cavity and the inner passage of the outer part, the inner part having a wall section defining an inner passage, a first opening at the first end, and one or more openings in that part of the walled section which is situated within the cavity.
US08087385B2
An access portal for a pet carrier allows a pet owner to insert a hand into the pet carrier but prevents the animal contained therein from escaping through the access portal. The access portal may be blocked by an elastic barrier with an aperture that stretches to allow the pet owner to gain access to the interior of the pet carrier. Doors covering the access portal on the inside and/or the outside of the carrier may also be used instead of, or in conjunction with the elastic barrier.
US08087381B2
A method is disclosed for calculating a transition monitor value for one or more milk-producing animals so as to enable its use in evaluating and optimally managing the health and productivity (i.e., the transition performance) of those individual animals and of their herds. An expected milk production is calculated for a given time period of a current lactation based both on the individual's performance in her previous lactation and on her current state. Transition monitor values are calculated as the difference between actual and expected milk production values. The transition monitor values can then be used to evaluate and to optimize the health and productivity of both individuals and herds of individuals and to make comparisons of transition monitor programs both within and between herds.
US08087376B2
The present invention has as an object to provide a coating apparatus for forming a coating film on each of many lenses in a short time. To attain this object, in the coating apparatus for a lens according to the invention, a lens support portion of a lens centering device, a lens support portion of a lens spinning device, and a lens support portion of a lens drying device are arranged at equal distances. A pair of lens holding portions of a lens transport device are provided at the same distance as the distance between the lens support portions. The first lens holding portion of the lens holding portions transports the lens from the lens support portion of the centering device to the lens support portion of the applicator device, and the second lens holding portion of the lens holding portions simultaneously transports the lens from the lens support portion of the applicator device to the lens support portion of the drying device.
US08087374B2
Specialized cable-concealing fittings and couplings suitable and a fitting system for use in forming cable runs comprising tubular framing and rails wherein the fittings, framing and rails can serve a as a conduit for cable. In particular, the cable concealing fittings are utilized in association with a cable from an electrical device such as a solar panel that is connected to an electrical system of a watercraft, such as sailboat or powerboat. The fittings and system utilizing the fittings serves both protective and aesthetic purposes.
US08087365B2
A configurable table (100) includes a first table portion (102) and a second table portion (104). The first table portion includes a first upper region (106) and a first plurality of leg members disposed perpendicular to the first upper region. The second table portion includes a second upper region (108) and a second plurality of leg members disposed perpendicular to the second upper region. At least one leg member from each of the first and second pluralities of leg members are matched to each other. One of each two matched leg members includes a channeled portion along the length of the leg member. The other matched leg member includes a mating portion such that the channeled portion and the mating portion mate with each other. A method of configuring a table into two separate tables, and vice versa, is provided.
US08087360B2
A system comprising a cable held in suspension and a trolley traveling along the cable. The trolley may include a brake pad positioned to contact the cable. The brake pad may include a plurality of segments contacting the cable. A first such segment may be formed from a first material. A second such segment may be formed from a second material, distinct from the first material. The sequence, composition, gaps, and the like of the plurality of segments may be selected to provide a desired resistance to wear, frictional coefficient, all-weather braking, and the like.
US08087359B2
Ammunition consists of a full-caliber or sub-caliber bullet, of the type comprising a substantially rigid bullet body and a deformable part, the deformable part consisting of an approximately cylindrical expansion ring, the rear part of which is fitted onto the front part of the bullet body.
US08087357B2
A process for selectively and repeatedly printing at least two graphics onto a water soluble material to create a randomized print for unit dose products.
US08087356B2
A handling device of a printing press, in particular for handling printing plates during an automated change of printing plates on a printing unit of a printing press, is disclosed. The handling device has a manipulator arm, where a manipulator head is allocated to one end of the manipulator arm, which head features a handling element, in particular a holding element for printing plates. The manipulator arm is of a multi-piece design of several segments, where a swivel axis is included on each end of each segment, around which axis at least the respective segment can be swiveled, and where a separate drive for providing the respective swivel motion is allocated to each swivel axis.
US08087349B2
A food processing apparatus includes a tank defining an inner compartment having an inlet end for receiving food product and an outlet end for discharging food product, an open-top screen mounted within the compartment and positioned relative to the tank in a first position, and a rotatable auger mounted such that at least a portion of the auger is within the screen for advancing food product within the tank from the inlet end of the tank toward the outlet end.
US08087338B1
A firearm noise suppressor having an internal base frame member with a plurality of inserts mounted thereto. In one form the suppressor is provided with a slip chamber allowing gas to be forwarded to a longitudinally forward chamber for pre-compression of gas therein.
US08087298B1
An ultrasonic probe deployment device in which an ultrasound-transmitting liquid forms the portion of the ultrasonic wave path in contact with the surface being inspected (i.e., the inspection surface). A seal constrains flow of the liquid, for example preventing the liquid from surging out and flooding the inspection surface. The seal is not rigid and conforms to variations in the shape and unevenness of the inspection surface, thus forming a seal (although possibly a leaky seal) around the liquid. The probe preferably is held in place to produce optimum ultrasonic focus on the area of interest. Use of encoders can facilitate the production of C-scan area maps of the material being inspected.
US08087296B2
An angular velocity sensor includes a substrate having an upper surface having a first recess provided therein, an electronic component mounted in the first recess, and a vibration element mounted onto the upper surface of the substrate. The first vibration element has a portion located directly above the electronic component. This angular velocity sensor has a small size.
US08087293B2
The invention relates to an oil-gas-water multi-phase flow adjusting apparatus, which mainly comprises an inlet accelerating pipe section, a vortex flow guide spiral pipe, a gas circuit exit connection pipe section, a liquid receiving cone, a mixed liquid relief exit connection pipe section and a sampler exit connection pipe section, and which has the function for changing at intervals the flow pattern, the flow state and the components of the oil-gas-water multi-phase flow. The invention also relates to an oil-gas-water multi-phase flow rate measuring apparatus and its measuring method. The measuring apparatus comprises a blind three-way mixing means, a pressure differential type flow measuring device, a single-γ phase volume fraction meter, a dual-γ phase volume fraction meter, an oil-gas-water multi-phase flow adjusting apparatus and a computing system. The measuring method is as follows: the single-γ phase volume fraction meter and the dual-γ phase volume fraction meter measure the gas content GVF and the water content WC respectively; the pressure differential type flow measuring device measures the differential pressure ΔP of the total flow rate; the computing unit computes the oil flow rate Qo, the gas flow rate Qg and the water flow rate Qw.
US08087292B2
A method of determining reservoir permeability and geometry of a subterranean formation having a reservoir fluid including oil that has not been previously water-flooded includes isolating the subterranean formation to be tested; providing an injection fluid at a substantially constant rate from a wellhead to the formation being tested, wherein the injection fluid is miscible with the oil at the tested formation; sealing, at the top, the tested formation from further fluid injection; measuring pressure data in the tested formation including pressure injection data and pressure falloff data; and determining the reservoir permeability and geometry of the tested formation based on an analysis of the measured pressure injection data and the measured pressure falloff data using a well pressure model.
US08087272B1
A locking mechanism is provided that has an unlocked position and a locked position. The locking mechanism comprises the following. A first handle. A first rose attached to the first handle with the first handle adapted for rotational movement relative to the first rose. A first longitudinal slot in the first rose. A locking cartridge cylinder at least partially contained within at least the first handle or the first rose. A locking tab operably connected to the locking cartridge cylinder adapted for movement: at least partially into at least the second slot in the first rose in a locked position; and completely out of the first longitudinal slot in the first rose in an unlocked position.
US08087261B2
A refrigerator is provided that includes a cold air duct that receives cold air circulating inside of a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber, an evaporator in the cold air duct, at least one defrosting heater in the cold air duct that selectively emits heat, a fan in the cold air duct, that selectively directs the cold air in an upward or downward direction, a motor that drives the fan, and an open/close device that closes a space having the evaporator, the defrosting heater, and the fan positioned therein selectively, thereby providing an improved defroster for an evaporator.
US08087247B2
An engine/heat pump is shown. Most of its parts rotate around the same central axis. It comprises two doubly connected chambers. Blades in each chamber substantially rotate with the chamber and may be firmly attached to the walls of the chamber, thus forming a modified centrifugal pump with axial input and discharge. An expandable fluid is rotated outward by one of the pumps and then heat is added for an engine or removed for a heat pump as the fluid is being sent to the outer part of the second pump. The fluid travels toward the center of the second pump, thus impelling the pump in the rotation direction. Then heat is removed for an engine or added for a heat pump as the fluid leaves the second pump and travels back to the first pump near the center of rotation. Rotation energy of the fluid is typically much larger than the circulation energy. A modified centrifugal pump with axial discharge having a casing rotating with the blades is also claimed.
