US08664752B2
Semiconductor die packages are disclosed. An exemplary semiconductor die package includes a premolded substrate. The premolded substrate can have a semiconductor die attached to it, and an encapsulating material may be disposed over the semiconductor die.
US08664732B2
A magnetic pressure sensor is provided that includes a semiconductor body with a top side and a back side, a Hall sensor formed on the top side of the semiconductor body, a spacer connected to the semiconductor body, whereby the spacer has a recess in the center, and a membrane covering the recess, whereby the membrane has a first material and has a ferromagnetic substance. The ferromagnetic substance concentrates a magnetic flux density of a source formed outside the ferromagnetic material, and the spacer is formed as a circumferential wall and has a second material and the second material is different from the first material in at least one element.
US08664729B2
Methods and apparatus for reduced gate resistance finFET. A metal gate transistor structure is disclosed including a plurality of semiconductor fins formed over a semiconductor substrate, the fins being arranged in parallel and spaced apart; a metal containing gate electrode formed over the semiconductor substrate and overlying a channel gate region of each of the semiconductor fins, and extending over the semiconductor substrate between the semiconductor fins; an interlevel dielectric layer overlying the gate electrode and the semiconductor substrate; and a plurality of contacts disposed in the interlevel dielectric layer and extending through the interlevel dielectric layer to the gate electrode; a low resistance metal strap formed over the interlevel dielectric layer and coupled to the gate electrode by the plurality of contacts; wherein the plurality of contacts are spaced apart from the channel gate regions of the semiconductor fins. Methods for forming the reduced gate finFET are disclosed.
US08664720B2
In one embodiment, the semiconductor device includes a first source of a first doping type disposed in a substrate. A first drain of the first doping type is disposed in the substrate. A first gate region is disposed between the first source and the first drain. A first channel region of a second doping type is disposed under the first gate region. The second doping type is opposite to the first doping type. A first extension region of the first doping type is disposed between the first gate and the first drain. The first extension region is part of a first fin disposed in or over the substrate. A first isolation region is disposed between the first extension region and the first drain. A first well region of the first doping type is disposed under the first isolation region. The first well region electrically couples the first extension region with the first drain.
US08664713B2
A power device integrated on a semiconductor substrate and having a plurality of conductive bridges within a trench gate structure. In an embodiment, a semiconductor substrate includes a trench having sidewalls and a bottom, the walls and bottom are covered with a first insulating coating layer which then also includes a conductive gate structure. An embodiment provides the formation of the conductive gate structure with covering at least the sidewalls with a second conductive coating layer of a first conductive material. This results in a conductive central region of a second conductive material having a different resistivity than the first conductive material forming a plurality of conductive bridges between said second conductive coating layer and said conductive central region.
US08664710B2
A non-volatile memory and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The non-volatile memory includes a gate dielectric layer, a floating gate, a control gate, an inter-gate dielectric structure and two doped regions. The gate dielectric layer is disposed on a substrate. The floating gate is disposed on the gate dielectric layer. The control gate is disposed on the floating gate. The inter-gate dielectric structure is disposed between the control gate and the floating gate. The inter-gate dielectric structure includes a first oxide layer, a second oxide layer and a charged nitride layer. The first oxide layer is disposed on the floating gate. The second oxide layer is disposed on the first oxide layer. The charged nitride layer is disposed between the first oxide layer and the second oxide layer. The doped regions are disposed in the substrate at two sides of the floating gate, respectively.
US08664694B2
A transistor having a narrow bandgap semiconductor source/drain region is described. The transistor includes a gate electrode formed on a gate dielectric layer formed on a silicon layer. A pair of source/drain regions are formed on opposite sides of the gate electrode wherein said pair of source/drain regions comprise a narrow bandgap semiconductor film formed in the silicon layer on opposite sides of the gate electrode.
US08664688B2
A nitride semiconductor light-emitting chip offers enhanced luminous efficacy as a result of an improved EL emission pattern. The nitride semiconductor laser chip (nitride semiconductor light-emitting chip) has a nitride semiconductor substrate having a principal growth plane, and nitride semiconductor layers grown on the principal growth plane of the nitride semiconductor substrate. The principal growth plane of the GaN substrate is a plane having off-angles in both the a- and c-axis directions relative to an m plane, and the off-angle in the a-axis direction is larger than the off-angle in the c-axis direction.
US08664683B2
A method for providing, on a carrier (40), an insulative spacer layer (26) which is patterned such that a cavity (27) is formed which enables connection of an optical semiconductor element (41) to the intended conductor structure (22) when placed inside the cavity (27). The cavity (27) is formed such that it, through its shape, extension and/or depth, accurately defines a location of an optical element (45; 61) in relation to the optical semiconductor element (41). Through the provision of such a patterned insulative spacer layer, compact and cost-efficient optical semiconductor devices can be mass-produced based on such a carrier without the need for prolonged development or acquisition of new and expensive manufacturing equipment.
US08664681B2
Parallel plate slot emission array. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, an article of manufacture includes a side-emitting light emitting diode configured to emit light from more than two surfaces. The article of manufacture includes a first sheet electrically and thermally coupled to a first side of the light emitting diode, and a second sheet electrically and thermally coupled to a second side of the light emitting diode. The article of manufacture further includes a plurality of reflective surfaces configured to reflect light from all of the surfaces of the light emitting diode through holes in the first sheet. The light may be reflected via total internal reflection.
US08664675B2
A multichip light-emitting diode (LED) includes a reflective cup, a plurality of light-emitting chips and a package. The light-emitting chips are disposed in the reflective cup and emit light when driven. The package is disposed in the reflective cup and covers the light-emitting chips. The package further has a plurality of lenses corresponding to the light-emitting chips one by one. The lenses refract light emitted by the corresponding light-emitting chips, respectively. An extrinsic light efficiency of the multichip is increased through the design of the multichip LED.
US08664668B2
A combined semiconductor apparatus includes a semiconductor substrate having an integrated circuit, a planarized region formed in a surface of the semiconductor substrate, and a semiconductor thin film including at least one semiconductor device and bonded on the planarized region. A surface of the semiconductor thin film, in which the semiconductor device is formed, is disposed on a side of the planarized region. The apparatus may further include a planarized film disposed between the planarized region and the semiconductor thin film.
US08664666B2
A thin stacked semiconductor device has a plurality of circuits that are laminated and formed sequentially in a specified pattern to form a multilayer wiring part. At the stage for forming the multilayer wiring part, a filling electrode is formed on the semiconductor substrate such that the surface is covered with an insulating film, a post electrode is formed on specified wiring at the multilayer wiring part, a first insulating layer is formed on one surface of the semiconductor substrate, the surface of the first insulating layer is removed by a specified thickness to expose the post electrode, and the other surface of the semiconductor substrate is ground to expose the filling electrode and to form a through-type electrode. A second insulating layer if formed on one surface of the semiconductor substrate while exposing the forward end of the through-type electrode, and bump electrodes are formed on both electrodes.
US08664656B1
Methods and devices for embedding semiconductors in printed circuit boards (PCBs) are provided. In one example, a method of manufacturing a PCB having a die assembly embedded therein includes removing a release film from an adhesive layer of the die assembly. The method also includes disposing the die assembly on a first layer of the PCB such that the adhesive layer contacts the first layer of the PCB. The method includes disposing a second layer of the PCB over the first layer such that the die assembly is within an intermediate portion between the first layer and the second layer. The method also includes filling the intermediate portion with resin and subjecting the PCB to a press cycle to cure the resin.
US08664654B2
A thin film transistor, a thin film transistor array panel including the same, and a method of manufacturing the same are provided, wherein the thin film transistor includes a channel region including an oxide semiconductor, a source region and a drain region connected to the channel region and facing each other at both sides with respect to the channel region, an insulating layer positioned on the channel region, and a gate electrode positioned on the insulating layer, wherein an edge boundary of the gate electrode and an edge boundary of the channel region are substantially aligned.
US08664642B1
A graphite-based device comprising a substrate with a plurality of zones and one or more graphene stacks overlaying the zones is provided. A first zone comprises a plurality of surfaces. A first surface is adjacent to a second surface in the plurality of surfaces. The one or more graphene stacks comprise a first graphene stack in the first zone. The first graphene stack comprises a plurality of graphene layers, a first of which is formed on the first surface. The first graphene layer is either planar or non-planar. A second graphene layer in the plurality of graphene layers comprises a first portion formed on a top surface of the first graphene layer, a second portion formed on the second surface and a first intermediate portion connecting the first and second portions. The second graphene layer is non-planar. The first and second graphene layers have different characteristic dimensions and different bandgaps.
US08664641B2
Disclosed herein is a nano device, including: a carbon layer including one-layered graphene having a honeycombed planar structure in which carbon atoms are connected with each other and two or more-layered monocrystalline graphite; and one or more vertically-grown nanostructures formed on the carbon layer. This nano device can be used to manufacture an integrated circuit in which various devices including a graphene electronic device and a photonic device are connected with each other, and is a high-purity and high-quality nano device having a small amount of impurities because a metal catalyst is not used.
US08664635B2
An exemplary embodiment of the present invention discloses an LED chip including a substrate, a GaN-based compound semiconductor stacked structure arranged on the substrate, an electrode electrically connected to the semiconductor stacked structure, and a wavelength converting layer covering a portion of the semiconductor stacked structure. The electrode passes through the wavelength converting layer. The semiconductor stacked structure includes a first conductivity-type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second conductivity-type semiconductor layer.
US08664631B2
According to one embodiment, a nonvolatile memory device includes a word line interconnect layer, a bit line interconnect layer, a pillar, and charge bearing members. The word line interconnect layer includes a plurality of word lines extending in a first direction. The bit line interconnect layer includes a plurality of bit lines extending in a second direction that intersects the first direction. The pillar is disposed between each of the word lines and each of the bit lines. The charge bearing members contain a negative fixed charge, and provided on side faces of the pillars. The pillars includes a diode film provided with a p-type layer and an n-type layer and a variable resistance film stacked on the diode film. The charge bearing member is disposed on side faces of the p-type layer, and is not disposed on side faces of the n-type layer.
US08664630B1
A thermal neutron shield comprising boron shielding panels with a high percentage of the element Boron. The panel is least 46% Boron by weight which maximizes the effectiveness of the shielding against thermal neutrons. The accompanying method discloses the manufacture of boron shielding panels which includes enriching the pre-cursor mixture with varying grit sizes of Boron Carbide.
US08664625B2
There is provided a system and method for providing and utilizing objects having invisible three-dimensional images. There is provided an object comprising an inner material and an outer material. The inner material is formed in a three-dimensional shape and includes a first portion having a first ratio based on a first fluorescent dye and a first transparent material, wherein the first ratio is selected such as to cause the first portion to remain transparent when exposed to a visible light and the first portion to emit a first visible color when exposed to an invisible light. The outer material comprises a second transparent material formed around the inner material such as to hide the three-dimensional shape of the inner material. By exposing the object to the invisible light, the three-dimensional shape of the inner material is revealed.
US08664622B2
An apparatus comprises an ionization chamber for providing ions during a process of ion implantation, and an electron beam source device inside the ionization chamber. The electron beam source device comprises a field emission array having a plurality of emitters for generating electrons in vacuum under an electric field.
US08664617B2
A multi-stream optical interrogation flow cell (60) for a radiopharmaceutical includes a multiple flow cell body (10a-f) defining a first elongate fluid flowpath (A1-6;B1-6) therethrough for individually conducting a radiopharmaceutical therethrough in fluid isolation from other of the flow cell bodies. Each flow cell body further defines a first and second aligned UV transparent optical guides (36,38) and a first interrogation passageway (26a-f) extending between the first and second optical guides such that a portion of the elongate first fluid flowpath intersects the interrogation passageway such that the radiopharmaceutical flows in between the first and second optical guides. The first and second interrogation passageways of all of the flow cell bodies are optically aligned so that a single interrogation beam is able to extend through each of the interrogation passageways.
US08664612B2
A scintillator detector of high-energy radiation comprising a semiconductor slab that is composed of alternating layers of barrier and well material. The barrier and well material layers are direct bandgap semiconductors. Bandgap of the well material is smaller than the bandgap of the barrier material. The combined thickness of the well layers is substantially less than the total thickness of said slab. The thickness of the barrier layers is substantially larger than the diffusion length of minority carriers. The thickness of the well layers is sufficiently large to absorb most of the incident scintillating radiation generated in the barrier layers in response to an ionization event from interaction with an incident high-energy particle.
US08664610B2
A single photon emission computed tomography instrument is provided, which has a platform, at least one detector, at least one beam stopper, a signal processing device and a computer. The at least one detector is disposed at one side of the platform, and the at least one beam stopper is disposed between the platform and the detector. The signal processing device is electrically communicated with the at least one detector, and the computer is electrically communicated with the signal processing device. The present disclosure further provides an operating method which the beam stopper is added or removed respectively while scanning an analyze by the single photon emission computed tomography instrument in different angles. The projection dataset emitted from the focus could be estimated by subtracting the projecting data without the beam stopper from that with the beam stopper, and high resolution image could be obtained by using image reconstruction program.
US08664584B2
A compact PD unidirectivity solution for an optical tap monitor, which reduces the overall size of optical tap module, is provided. The solution is to use lensing to separate the light from the input and output fibers, and then add a mask or spacer in front of the monitor PD to prevent any of the light from the output fiber from entering the photodetector package.
US08664580B2
The optical sensor includes a photodiode PD1 with its anode grounded, a diode group DG1 having one end connected to a cathode of the photodiode PD1, a current source I1 having one end connected to the other end of the diode group DG1, a power supply section for applying a constant voltage to the other end of the current source I1, and a grounded-emitter NPN transistor QOUT1 having a base connected to the cathode of the photodiode PD1 and a collector connected to one end of the current source I1. The diode group DG1 is provided by n diodes D1, D2, . . . , Dn connected in series so that their forward directions are directed toward the photodiode PD1 side, and a photocurrent which flows from a connecting point between the diode group and the current source to the photodiode is converted into a voltage and outputted as a photoelectric conversion signal.
US08664576B2
A vehicle for launching from a gun such as a gas gun and having a housing; preferably incorporating a precessional attitude control system; and utilizing a flared base, fins, or active use of the attitude control system during passage through the atmosphere. Subtly canting the fins can produce desired spinning of the vehicle. The propulsion system can employ liquid, hybrid, or solid fuel. A removable aero-shell assists atmospheric flight with thermal protection being provided by anticipated ablation, an ablative aero-spike, or transpirational cooling. And a releasable sabot enhances the effectiveness of the launch.
US08664573B2
A composite structure includes a matrix material and a carbon nanotube (CNT)-infused fiber material that includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) infused to a fiber material. The CNT-infused fiber material is disposed throughout a portion of the matrix material. The composite structure is adapted for application of a current through the CNT-infused fiber material to provide heating of the composite structure. A heating element includes a CNT-infused fiber material includes a plurality of CNTs infused to a fiber material. The CNT-infused fiber material is of sufficient proportions to provide heating to a structure in need thereof.
US08664571B2
The object of the invention is a clothing piece, such as a glove, with a heating device, in particular for the warming and/or temperature control of a skin surface with deep-acting effect upon areas of a human body, comprising at least one heat transfer element, at least one connection for an energy supply device, at least one control field with an encapsulation and with at least one circuit board with an electrical control circuit for controlling the temperature of the heat transfer element and at least two switches for the manual adjustment of the temperature. The encapsulation comprises a chamber that holds the circuit board and a protruding edge that surrounds the chamber, wherein the edge is made of a flexible material. In addition, the switches are made up of at least two contact elements located on the inside of the encapsulation and at least two contact elements formed on the circuit board.
US08664569B2
The present invention is a weld wire comprising a sheath encapsulating a metal core made of powdered metal, wherein a fill percentage of the metal core is no less than approximately 12%. The metal core comprises a core composition alloyed with an alloying element or an combination of elements comprising Cr, Mo, V, W, Hf and Nb or combinations thereof, wherein a total weight percentage of the alloying element or the combination of elements in the core composition does not exceed approximately 1%. In a particular embodiment, the alloying element is Mo in the amounts selected from the range of about 0 to about 0.5 percent by weight and the fill percentage of the metal core is selected from the range of about 12% to about 30%. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the total percentage of the combination of elements is selected from the range of about 0.4% to about 0.8%.
US08664568B2
An arc welding control method carries out weld with a welding current and a welding speed different from those at a steady welding period according to intrinsic resistivity of a weld wire or a base material at a welding start period and a welding end period, so as to obtain a satisfactory welding quality.
US08664564B2
A system and method for operating an inverted-based power source includes a power input configured to receive alternating current (AC) power and a rectifier configured to convert the AC power to direct current (DC) power. The inverter-based power source also includes an inverter configured to receive the DC power from the rectifier and convert the DC power to AC power and a controller configured to generate switching signals according to a pattern of offsets from a regular half period and communicate the switching signals to the inverter or rectifier control operation of the inverter or rectifier.
US08664557B2
The present invention provides a zipper switch lampholder having a zipper and a rotating conductive rod, and both ends of the rotating conductive rod can jump between a slope with a first conductive plate and a second conductive plate and a slope without the first conductive plate and the second conductive plate to achieve an operation of switching a light emitting element to be turned on and off, and a plurality of hooks is provided for securely connecting a power line for a wire connection in order to waive the complicated process of tying an UL knot and provide a quicker, more convenient and secured wire connection.
US08664547B2
A load cell assembly is used with a scale having a weighing platform, in order to provide a very low clearance above a surface on which the scale is positioned. The load cell assembly has a load cell with first and second arms. A bridge portion of the load cell connects the arms, maintaining them in a substantially parallel relationship, with at least a portion of the second arm having a height that is larger than a height of the first arm and the bridge portion. A fastener attaches the load cell to the weighing platform, on the second arm portion with a larger height. A foot device, attached to the first arm, spaces the load cell above the surface on which the scale is positioned.
US08664543B2
An insulative wire-clipping bushing includes a main body, support frames and a pair of clip bodies. The main body has a first surface and a second surface, and the support frames are installed and extended from symmetric edges of the first surface, and ends of the support frames are bent inwardly to form a half-hood structure, and the pair of clip bodies are installed and extended from the first surface and disposed between the support frames, and the pair of clip bodies are installed symmetrically, and ends of the pair of clip bodies are bent inwardly to form a tapered hook structure, and a wiring space is formed between the ends of the clip bodies, so that the bushing can be passed into a through hole of an electricity distribution box to pass and install at least one wire and provide a clipping force required for clamping the wire.
US08664534B2
It is an object of the present invention to provide a printed circuit board that can be housed at high density in the enclosures of electronic devices. The printed circuit board (40) according to a preferred embodiment of the invention has a construction with a substrate (1), a conductor (7) formed in a flexible region (36) and conductors (8,9) formed in non-flexible regions (46). The conductor (7) formed in the flexible region (36) has a total thickness of 1-30 μm, and the conductors (8,9) formed in the non-flexible regions (46) have a total thickness of 30-150 μm.
US08664526B2
A shallow electric box has a back wall, and top, bottom, and opposite side walls perpendicularly connected to said back wall to thereby form a box shape. A wire connector connected to an interior surface of each of the side wall, and at least two tab members that are adapted to be mechanically connected to an electrical unit to be inserted within the electric box, and are adapted to frictionally engage respective the wire connectors on respective interior surfaces of each respective of the side wall, to thereby provide a quick and easy means for electrically inserting and removing the electrical unit from the electric box.
US08664521B2
A high efficiency solar battery using a fluorescent substance to efficiently use incident light and thereby improve conversion efficiency. The solar battery of the present invention comprises: a front part including a front electrode and configured to receive light; a generating part disposed behind the front part to generate electricity from specific wavelengths of light incident through the front part; and a rear part disposed behind the generating part and comprising a rear electrode, wherein a first fluorescent substance is dispersed in the front part so as to absorb light having wavelengths different from the specific wavelengths, convert the absorbed light into light having the specific wavelengths, and output the converted light.
US08664516B2
A structure and a method of the solar cell efficiency improvement by the strain technology are provided. The solar cell has a first surface and a second surfaces which at least a gasket is disposed thereon for supporting the solar cell and being the axle whiling stressing. The method includes the steps of: (a) applying at least a stress on the first surface; (b) generating a supporting force on the second surface; and (c) generating at least a strain in the solar cell. In addition, the present invention also includes a method involving a step of: (a) applying a mechanical stress to the solar cell; (b) generating a tension in the solar cell by at least two materials having different lattice constants; or (c) generating another tension in the solar cell by a shallow trench isolation filler, a high tensile/compressive stress silicon nitride layer and a combination thereof.
US08664509B2
A thermoelectric apparatus includes a first and a second assemblies, at least a first and a second heat conductors. The first assembly includes a first and a second substrates, and several first thermoelectric material sets disposed between the first and second substrates. The first substrate has at least a first through hole. The second assembly includes a third and a fourth substrates, and several second thermoelectric material sets disposed between the third and fourth substrates. The fourth substrate has at least a second through hole. Each of the first and second thermoelectric material sets has a p-type and an n-type thermoelectric element. The first and second heat conductors respectively penetrate the first and second through holes. Two ends of the first heat conductor respectively connect the second and fourth substrates, while two ends of the second heat conductor respectively connect the first and third substrates.
US08664498B2
A hand-held guitar pick includes a distal end which is twisted at a compound angle with respect to the body of the pick so as to align the tip of the pick with the guitar strings. The compound angle comprises a rotation component in relation to a longitudinal axis and a bent component in relation to a lateral axis. The bend and rotation properly align the distal end of the hand-held pick to better engage a string on a guitar when used in a typical manner. One embodiment resembles a traditional triangular pick. Another embodiment includes a cylindrical, hollow body configured to be worn over a user's fingertip. The distal end comprises an arced bridge spanning edges of the cylindrical body.
US08664496B1
A wheat variety designated XW10T, the plants and seeds of wheat variety XW10T, methods for producing a wheat plant produced by crossing the variety XW10T with another wheat plant, and hybrid wheat seeds and plants produced by crossing the variety XW10T with another wheat line or plant, and the creation of variants by mutagenesis or transformation of variety XW10T. This invention also relates to methods for producing other wheat varieties or breeding lines derived from wheat variety XW10T and to wheat varieties or breeding lines produced by those methods.
US08664495B2
A wheat variety designated XW10Q, the plants and seeds of wheat variety XW10Q, methods for producing a wheat plant produced by crossing the variety XW10Q with another wheat plant, and hybrid wheat seeds and plants produced by crossing the variety XW10Q with another wheat line or plant, and the creation of variants by mutagenesis or transformation of variety XW10Q. This invention also relates to methods for producing other wheat varieties or breeding lines derived from wheat variety XW10Q and to wheat varieties or breeding lines produced by those methods.
US08664493B2
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV425548. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV425548, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV425548 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV425548 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV425548.
US08664489B2
A novel maize variety designated PH1DAY and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1DAY with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1DAY through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1DAY or a locus conversion of PH1DAY with another maize variety.
US08664481B2
A novel soybean variety, designated XB13R12 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB13R12, cells from soybean variety XB13R12, plants of soybean XB13R12, and plant parts of soybean variety XB13R12. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB13R12 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB13R12, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB13R12, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB13R12. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB13R12 are further provided.
US08664478B2
A novel soybean variety, designated XB05Y12 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB05Y12, cells from soybean variety XB05Y12, plants of soybean XB05Y12, and plant parts of soybean variety XB05Y12. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB05Y12 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB05Y12, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB05Y12, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB05Y12. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB05Y12 are further provided.
US08664475B2
This invention relates generally to a plant cell with enhanced nitrogen use efficiency and/or increased biomass production as compared to a corresponding non-transformed wild type plant cell by increasing or generating one or more activities of polypeptides associated with enhanced nitrogen use efficiency in plants.
US08664473B2
The invention relates to alfalfa plants and lines having aluminum tolerance. The invention also relates to parts of alfalfa plants from lines having aluminum tolerance, including seeds capable of growing aluminum tolerant alfalfa plants. Methods for the use and breeding of aluminum tolerant alfalfa plants are also provided.
US08664468B2
Disposable absorbent article comprising an interior design signal indicating absorbency and an absorbent core including first and second absorbent layers, the first absorbent layer including a first substrate and the second absorbent layer including a second substrate, the first and second absorbent layers further including absorbent particulate polymer material deposited on the first and second substrates and thermoplastic material covering the absorbent particulate polymer material on the respective first and second substrates, the first and second absorbent layers combined together such that at least a portion of the thermoplastic material of the first absorbent layer contacts at least a portion of the thermoplastic material of the second absorbent layer, the absorbent particulate polymer material is disposed between the first and second substrates in an absorbent particulate polymer material area, and the absorbent particulate polymer material is substantially continuously distributed across the absorbent particulate polymer material area.
US08664463B2
This disclosure relates generally to adhesives and particularly to reversible adhesives. This disclosure further relates to generally adhesive articles and particularly to wound dressings comprising such adhesives. The adhesive comprises a core and a shell comprising at least two components. One of the components of the shell comprises a polymer formed by reacting a monomer of a thermally reversible polymer and the other component comprises a polymer formed by reacting a monomer of a polymer of a pressure sensitive adhesive. The wound dressing comprises a substrate and the reversible adhesive, forming a reversible wound dressing. Such wound dressings are particularly suitable for treatment of damaged sensitive tissue, for example wounds formed on a fragile skin.
US08664461B2
This invention is directed to new mono-cyclopentadienyl (“mono-Cp”) metallocene catalyst compounds useful for producing high viscosity PAOs with narrow molecular weight distribution and good shear stability. Specifically, this invention relates to a group of bridged mono-Cp catalysts wherein, in an embodiment of the invention, the aromatic ring structure is substituted with: 1) at least one phenyl group, 2) at least one alkyl group, and 3) at least one other group, such as a hydrocarbyl group, a heteroatom, or a heteroatom-containing group.
US08664457B2
A production method of 3,3,3-trifluoropropene includes the step of hydrogenating 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene with hydrogen (H2) in a gas phase in the presence of either of: (A) a catalyst having carried on a carrier at least one kind of transition metal selected from the group consisting of ruthenium, nickel, rhodium, iridium, iron, osmium and cobalt, or an oxide of said transition metal; (B) an oxide catalyst of copper and manganese; and (C) a catalyst having carried on a carrier palladium and at least one kind of element selected from the group consisting of bismuth, zinc, copper, silver, lanthanum, lead, zirconium, niobium, hafnium, magnesium, tin and arsenic.
US08664448B2
The present invention relates to a process for producing an odorless and colorless industrial grade propylene glycol from glycerol obtained during the manufacturing of biodiesel. The process includes hydrogenating the glycerol to form a hydrogenated product, distilling the hydrogenated product to form a glycol product, and contacting the glycol product with a treatment bed. The propylene glycol may be used in various industrial and consumer applications and products such as personal care products.
US08664445B2
A method for providing a secondary or tertiary amine with formula (R1R2NR3)2NR4 is provided, wherein each of R1 and R2 are chosen from the group consisting of a methyl group, an ethyl group, an iso-propyl group and an n-propyl group; R3 being an alkoxyalkyl group chosen from the group consisting of —CH2CH2OCH2CH2-, —CH2CH2OCH2CH2CH2- and —CH2CH2CH2OCH2CH2CH2-; R4 is chosen from the group consisting of a hydrogen, a methyl group, an ethyl group, an iso-propyl group, an n-propyl group and a group with formula R1R2NR3. The method comprises the steps: (α)reacting R1R2NR3(OH) with ammonia, thereby providing a mixture comprising (R1R2NR3)2NR4; (β) separating (R1R2NR3)2NR4 from said mixture.
US08664443B2
The present invention relates to an improved process for the preparation of (1S,3S,5S)-2-[2(S)-2-amino-2-(3-hydroxy-1-adamantan-1-yl)acetyl]-2-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-3-carbonitrile and its intermediates.
US08664440B2
A method for preparing Aliskiren and intermediate thereof, which comprises the following steps: reacting 4-bromo-1-methoxy-2-(3-methoxypropoxy)benzene with magnesium isopropyl chloride and n-BuLi to obtain the compound of formula XXII; reacting the product of methylsulfonylation of the compound of formula XIX with anhydrous LiBr to obtain the compound of formula XXI; obtaining the intermediate of Aliskiren shown as formula XV by reacting the compound of formula XXII with the compound of formula XXI in an ether as the solvent and in the presence of a catalyst containing iron; then reacting the compound of formula XV with the compound of formula VII to obtain the compound of formula XXIII, following removing R1 from the amino group and obtaining Aliskiren shown as formula I.
US08664419B2
This invention provides, but is not limited to, methods of using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) having repeat units of the formula M2(DHTP) (M is a divalent metal ion; DHTP=2,5-dihydroxyterephthalate) for acetylene storage. Also provided are compositions of the same formula and acetylene, e.g., an acetylene storage material comprising [M2(DHTP)]n and acetylene.
US08664418B2
The invention relates to a method for producing mono-carboxyfunctionalized dialkylphosphinic acids and esters and salts thereof, characterized in that a) a phosphinic acid source (I) is reacted with olefins (IV) to yield an alkylphosphonic acid, salt or ester (II) thereof in the presence of a catalyst A, b) the alkylphosphonic acid thus obtained, salt or ester (II) thereof is reacted with an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid derivative (V) to yield a mono-carboxyfunctionalized dialkylphosphinic acid derivative (III) in the presence of a catalyst B, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 are the same or different and stand independently of each other, among other things, for H, C1-C18 alkyl, C6-C18 aryl, C6-C18 aralkyl, C6-C18 alkylaryl, and X and Y are the same or different and stand independently of each other for H, C1-C18 alkyl, C6-C18 aryl, C6-C18 aralkyl, C6-C18 alkylaryl, Mg, Ca, Al, Sb, Sn, Ge, Ti, Fe, Zr, Zn, Ce, Bi, Sr, Mn, Cu, Ni, Li, Na, K and/or a protonized nitrogen base, and the catalyst A is formed by transition metals and/or transition metal compounds and/or catalyst systems composed of a transition metal and/or a transition metal compound and at least one ligand, and catalyst B is formed by compounds forming peroxides and/or peroxo compounds and/or azo compounds and/or alkali metals and/or alkaline earth metals, alkali hydrides, alkaline earth hydrides and/or alkali alcoholates and alkaline earth alcoholates.
US08664416B2
The present invention describes a process for the production of alkyl esters of fatty acids and glycerine employing, in a reaction section, at least one transesterification reaction between an animal or vegetable oil and an aliphatic mono-alcohol, and using a heterogeneous solid catalyst, in which the energy balance is improved by thermal integration of the energy released during the mono-alcohol condensation step.
US08664409B2
The present invention relates to a new process for the preparation of (poly)aminoalkylaminoacetamide derivatives of epipodophyllotoxin and salts thereof, characterized in that it comprises a step of peptide coupling of 4-amino-4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin with an amine-containing reactant having protecting groups.
US08664403B2
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of S-[2-[1-(2-ethylbutyl)cyclohexylcarbonylamino]-phenyl]2-methylthiopropionate which is useful as a pharmaceutically active compound.
US08664381B2
The present invention relates to a process for the purification of amorolfine hydrochloride by means of a reversed-phase preparative high performances liquid chromatography (prep-HPLC) said method starting from a crude Amorolfine hydrochloride having purity higher than 90% and containing Bepromoline hydrochloride <5% and Fenpropimorf <3%. The process involves the use of a mobile phase comprising water and an organic solvent under isocratic conditions.
US08664368B2
The present invention provides a fully human anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody, the preparation method and use thereof. The fully human anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody is obtained by using antibody phage display technology, which has higher antibody affinity and stronger capacity for inhibiting tumor cell proliferation in comparison with humanized antibody bevacizumab, and can be used to prepare anti-tumor medicines.
US08664367B2
Proteins that bind IL-1α and IL-1β are described along with their use in compositions and methods for treating, preventing, and diagnosing IL-1-related disorders and for detecting IL-1α and IL-1β in cells, tissues, samples, and compositions.
US08664355B2
It is provided a simple and efficient process for producing a large amount of protein in a cell-free protein synthesis system, through a continuous synthesis reaction over a long time using a linear DNA as a template. The continuous synthesis reaction is carried out for at least one hour with a cell-free protein synthesis system comprising an extract of Escherichia coli cells cultured at any temperature between 18° C. and 36° C., and a linear template DNA encoding the protein. The continuous protein synthesis system is preferably a dialysis system or a continuous flow system. The cell-free protein synthesis system by dialysis system comprises an internal dialysate comprising the extract and the linear template DNA, an external dialysate comprising a substrate solution for protein synthesis, and a dialysis membrane through which the substrate can be transferred.
US08664350B2
The invention relates to a composition containing a particulate solid, a plastic material and a compound. The invention further relates to novel compounds, and the use of the coupling agents.
US08664346B2
A targeted molecular weight of an organopolysiloxane is obtained in a two stage hydrolysis by hydrolyzing a chlorosilane with from 0.002 to 0.6 mol of water in a first step in the presence of alcohol, in which the pressure and/or temperature are adjusted such that following further hydrolysis in a second step, the targeted molecular weight is obtained.
US08664344B2
Process for the preparation of polybutadiene effected by the polymerization of butadiene in an aliphatic and/or cyclo-aliphatic solvent in the presence of a catalytic system prepared in situ which comprises: (i) a carboxylate of neodymium soluble in the process solvent containing a variable quantity of water, the H2O/Nd molar ratio ranging from 0.001/1 to 0.50/1; (ii) an alkyl compound of aluminum; (iii) an alkyl compound of aluminum in which at least one bond of Al consists of an Al—Cl bond; The total Al/Nd molar ratio ranging from 4/1 to 12/1, and the Cl/Nd molar ratio ranging from 2/1 to 6/1.
US08664329B2
A novel silicone-acrylic copolymer which comprises a covalently bonded silicone polymer with an acrylic polymer through the —Si—O—Si— linkage is described. The silicone-acrylic copolymer is a reaction product of (a) a silicone polymer, (bi) a mixture of acrylic monomers wherein at least one acrylic monomer comprises a silane (meth)acrylic monomer and/or a siloxane (meth)acrylic macromer with a radical initiator to form an acrylic prepolymer or (bii) an acrylic polymer which comprises a silane or a siloxane functional group; and (c) a scrambling catalyst, wherein the ratio of the silicone polymer (a) and the mixture of acrylic monomers (bi) or polymer (bii) is from 50:1 to 1:50. The silicone-acrylic copolymer is useful as an adhesive, sealant, coating, and the like.
US08664328B2
A process is disclosed for preparing an emulsion composition by forming a mixture of a silanol functional organopolysiloxane, a boron compound, an emulsifier, and then admixing water to the mixture to form an emulsion. The resulting emulsions are useful for providing a coating of a high viscosity or dilatant silicone.
US08664323B2
A fluorinated composition includes: a polyfluoropolyether silane represented by the formula: RfaO(CF(CF3)CF2O)pCF(CF3)CH2OZ1Si(Y1)3; and a polyfluoropolyether silane represented by the formula: Rfb[R5CH2OZ2Si(Y2)3]2 Rfa represents a perfluoroalkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, optionally substituted with at least one catenated oxygen atom or —NR8— group, wherein R8 represents a perfluoroalkyl group; Z1 represents —R1SR2—, —R1S(═O)R2—, or —R1S(═O)2R2, wherein R1 and R2 independently represent alkylene groups having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms; each Y1 independently represents a hydrolyzable group; and p is a number in a range of from 3 to 50; Z2 independently represents —R3SR4—, —R3S(═O)R4—, or —R3S(═O)2R4, wherein R3 and R4 independently represent alkylene groups having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms; Y2 independently represents a hydrolyzable group; Rfb represents a perfluoroalkylene group having at least 3 carbon atoms, optionally substituted with at least one catenated oxygen atom or —NR6— group, wherein R6 represents a perfluoroalkyl group; R5 independently represents a covalent bond, or —(OR7)b—, and wherein R7 independently represents a branched perfluoroalkylene group, and b independently represents a number greater than or equal to one.
US08664321B2
Organopolysiloxane compositions having a 25° C. viscosity of at least 500 Pa·s., are continuously prepared by mixing and kneading organopolysiloxanes and fillers in a first process stage, in a kneading cascade having at least two kneading chambers arranged in series each containing two kneading tools on parallel axes, capable of being driven in corotating or counterrotating directions, the chambers connected to one another by means of openings through which material can pass in a direction transverse to the axes of the kneading tools, the first kneading chamber having a feed opening and the last kneading chamber having a discharge opening, to give raw mixtures and kneading and degassing the raw mixtures, in a second process stage at from 100° C. to 250° C. in a continuously operated double trough kneader having a discharge screw.
US08664319B2
This invention is directed to a method of stabilizing high solid slurries, like kaolin slurries, the method comprises causticizing the sodium polycrylate or polyacrylic acid used in a dispersant blend to a pH of above 9. The method comprises a homogeneous dispersant blend of sodium carbonate, sodium polyacrylate, sodium silicate, and sodium hydroxide. This invention is also directed to a method of stabilizing high solid slurries, like kaolin slurries, by adding sodium polyacrylate at an acidic pH range or polyacrylic acid solution to the slurries: and adding a blend of soda ash and sodium silicate to the slurries.
US08664316B2
Provided are resin-based and metal-based anti-thermally-expansive members each having small thermal expansion. More specifically, provided are an anti-thermally-expansive resin and an anti-thermally-expansive metal, each including a resin or a metal having a positive linear expansion coefficient at 20° C. and a solid particle dispersed in the resin or metal, in which the solid particle includes at least an oxide represented by the following general formula (1): (Bi1-xMx)NiO3 (1), where M represents at least one metal selected from the group consisting of La, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Y, and In; and x represents a numerical value of 0.02≦x≦0.15.
US08664315B2
An improved polymerization and processing method allows the production of special nitrile rubbers which are characterized by a specific cation content which leads to an excellent storage stability and particularly good vulcanization rate and moreover results in vulcanized materials that have advantageous properties.
US08664309B2
To provide an optical film wherein deterioration of a diimonium compound in an adhesive layer is prevented, and a process for its production. An optical film comprising a base film and an adhesive layer which is formed on the base film and has a massive material dispersed in an adhesive, wherein the massive material contains a diimonium compound represented by the following formula (1) and has a melting point of at least 200° C.: wherein R1 to R8 represent each independently an unsubstituted or substituted, same or different, C1-6 aliphatic hydrocarbon group, provided that from 4.9 to 8 groups among R1 to R8 are a C1-3 aliphatic hydrocarbon group (in which some of hydrogen atoms may be substituted by halogen atoms), and X− represents (R9SO2)3C− wherein R9 represents a C1-4 aliphatic hydrocarbon group which is unsubstituted or substituted by a halogen atom.
US08664301B2
A method for producing a thermoplastic polymer material is provided, the method including the steps of supplying component (A) below to a vent type extruder that includes a starting material supply opening, a liquid inlet, and a vent via the starting material supply opening of the extruder, supplying component (B) below to the extruder via the liquid inlet of the extruder, melting and kneading component (A) and component (B) within the extruder, and degassing a volatile component via the vent and extruding through a die a thermoplastic polymer material comprising a thermoplastic polymer of component (A) and at least one compound selected from compound group S of component (B). (A) A polymer composition that includes a thermoplastic polymer and an organic solvent and/or a monomer. (B) A solution of at least one compound selected from compound group S consisting of trehalose, sucrose, lactose, maltose, etc.
US08664288B2
The invention relates to the use of O-imino-iso-urea compounds as source of radicals to polymerizable compositions comprising these O-imino-iso-urea and to new O-imino-iso-urea compounds. The O-lmino-isoureas compounds are compounds of the Formula (I), wherein n is 1, 2, 3 or 4, R100 and R101 are independently H, C1-18 alkyl, C3-C12cycloalkyl, C6-C14aryl, C1-C14heteroaryl, C7-C15aralkyl, C2-C14heteroaralkyl, Cyano, or R100 and R101 form together with the carbon to which they are attached a mono or polycyclic C3-C18 carbocyclic or C1-C18 heterocyclic ring; R102 and R103 are independently C1-C18alkyl, C3-C12cycloalkyl, C6-C14aryl, C6-C14aryl once or more than once substituted by C1-C18alkyl; C7-C15aralkyl, (CH3)3Si—; or R102 and R103 are C1-C18alkyl, C3-C12cycloalkyl, C6-C14aryl, C7-C15aralkyl or R102 and R103 are C1-C18alkyl, C3-C12cycloalkyl which are interrupted or substituted by O or by N containing groups selected from C1-C18alkylamino, bis(C1-C18alkyl)amino or tris(C1-C18alkyl)ammonium; R104 if n is 1 is H, C1-C18alkyl, C3-C12cycloalkyl, C7-C14aralkyl, C6-C14aryl or acyl selected from the group consisting of the following acyls —C(═O)—H, —C(═O)—C1-C18alkyl, —C(═O)—C2-d18alkenyl, —C(═O)—C6-C14aryl, —C(═O)—C2-C18alkenyl-C6-C14aryl, —C(═O)—O—C1C18alkyl, —C(═O)—O—C6-C14aryl, —C(═O)—NH—C1-C18alkyl, —C(═O)—NH—C6-C14aryl and —C(═O)—N(C1C18alkyl)2; or R102 and R104 if n is 1 form together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached a 5 to 12 membered ring which may contain additional heteroatoms, R104 if n is more than 1 is di-, tri-, tetra-C1-C18alkylidene, diacyls, triacyls or tetraacyls and salts thereof.
US08664286B2
To provide a vibration damping composition: excellent in vibration damping property and thermal drying property in a wide temperature range; and sufficiently suppressing sagging of a vibration damping coating film on the vertical surface; and therefore useful for vibration damping materials of various structures.A vibration damping composition comprising an emulsion for vibration damping materials, a foaming agent, and an inorganic pigment, wherein the emulsion for vibration damping materials comprises a particle having a core part formed from an acrylic copolymer (A) and a shell part formed from an acrylic copolymer (B), and at least one of the acrylic copolymers (A) and (B) is prepared by copolymerizing a monomer component comprising methacrylic acid.
US08664285B2
The invention relates to composite materials, containing (i) a nanoporous polymer foam, which can be obtained by reacting one or more epoxy resins with one or more amphiphilic epoxy resin hardeners in water in a phase inversion polymerization process, and (ii) one or more inorganic fillers and/or inorganic fibers, with the stipulation that hollow glass balls are excluded as fillers. Said composite materials are suitable as heat-insulating materials.
US08664278B2
A composition for treating psoriasis, mycosis fungoides or alopecia comprising bis-(2-chloroethyl)methylamine or an HX salt and the pharmaceutically acceptable excipient HOCH2CH2OCH2CH2OR79, wherein R79 is a linear alkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms.
US08664277B2
The present invention provides a method of selectively inhibiting PKCθ in the presence of PKCδ, by administering to a subject in need thereof, a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula I. The present invention also provides a method of inhibiting cytokine synthesis in a T cell, a method of inhibiting T cell proliferation, and a method of inhibiting the replication of and cytokine production by T lymphocytes, while not stimulating or inhibiting the replication of B lymphocytes.
US08664262B2
The present invention relates to crystalline forms of the mono-sodium salt of D-isoglutamyl-D-tryptophan, pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, their use in the treatment of various diseases and conditions, and processes for their preparation. In particular, the present invention relates the crystal modification 1 (polymorphic form F) of the mono-sodium salt of D-isoglutamyl-D-tryptophan.
US08664257B2
The present invention relates to compounds of the formula I, wherein A, D, E, G, R10, R30, R40, R50 and R60 have the meanings indicated in the claims, which are valuable pharmaceutical active compounds. They are inhibitors of the protease cathepsin A, and are useful for the treatment of diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart failure, renal diseases, liver diseases or inflammatory diseases, for example. The invention furthermore relates to processes for the preparation of the compounds of the formula I, their use and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US08664248B2
The present invention relates to methods of treating hepatitis C infection, HIV infection, AIDS, or AIDS-related complex, or inhibiting HIV replication by administering a compound of Formula I wherein: X is H or OH; Y is H or OH; R1 is H or halogen (F, Cl, Br, I); R2 is H or halogen (F, Cl, Br, I); R3 is H, C1-6 alkyl, C1-6 fluoroalkyl, or benzyl; R4 is H, C1-6 alkyl, or benzyl; and R5 is H or C1-6 alkyl; or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, to a mammal.
US08664246B2
The invention relates to substituted pyridines and to processes for preparation thereof, and to the use thereof for production of medicaments for treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases, especially of haematological disorders, preferably of leukopenia and neutropenia.
US08664244B2
The present invention relates to compounds, processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them as active ingredient, methods for the treatment of disease states associated with the inhibition of the protein tyrosine kinase activity of growth factor receptors such as c-Met, thereby making them useful as anticancer agents, to their use as medicaments for use in the production of inhibition of tyrosine kinases reducing effects in warm-blooded animals such as humans.
US08664243B2
(S)-1-(4-Chloro-5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-3-(methylamino)pyrrolidine monohydrochloride and a crystal thereof, and a crystal of the aforementioned monohydrochloride having a major peak or peaks at one or more positions selected from the group consisting of positions where 2θs are about 13.9°, 21.5°, 21.7°, 22.4°, 22.8°, 24.5° and 35.0° in a powder X-ray diffraction spectrum, which have excellent properties as active ingredient of a medicament for prophylactic and/or therapeutic treatment of glaucoma and the like.
US08664238B2
Indenoisoquinolinone derivatives (I), the manufacturing method and the medical use thereof, which belong to pharmaceutical chemistry and organic chemistry field, are disclosed. These compounds can be used for treating several medical symptoms related to postmenopausal syndrome, uterine fibers deterioration and aortic smooth muscle cells proliferation, especially ER-(+) depend breast cancer. Meanwhile, these compounds can also be used for treating glioma and lung cancer, and have inhibiting effect on tumor metastasis effect on tumor metastasis.
US08664237B2
Described herein are spiperone derivative compounds which have been found to be useful in methods of stimulating CaCC and treating disorders (or symptoms thereof) associated with CaCC including cystic fibrosis, wherein a compound of the invention is administered to a subject.
US08664234B2
The present invention is directed to dihydrobenzoquinazilinone compounds of formula (I) which are M1 receptor positive allosteric modulators and that are useful in the treatment of diseases in which the M1 receptor is involved, such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, pain or sleep disorders. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and to the use of the compounds and compositions in the treatment of diseases mediated by the M1 receptor.
US08664229B2
The present application relates to novel amides and thioamides, to processes for preparation thereof and to the use thereof for controlling animal pests, in particular arthropods and especially insects.
US08664222B2
The present invention relates to a specific salt of a dihydropteridione derivative, namely the trihydrochloride salt of the compound N-[trans-4-[4-(cyclopropylmethyl)-1-piperazinyl]cyclohexyl]-4-[[(7R)-7-ethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5-methyl-8-(1-methylethyl)-6-oxo-2-pteridinyl]amino]-3-methoxy-benzamide, to its crystallization in the form of an hydrate with water, to a process for the manufacture thereof, and to the use thereof in a pharmaceutical composition.
US08664218B2
The invention provides a compound of the formula (1): or a salt, solvate, N-oxide or tautomer thereof.
US08664216B2
The present invention is concerned with spiro-dihydrotetraazabenzoazulenes, i.e. spiro-5,6-dihydro-4H-2,3,5,10b-tetraaza-benzo[e]azulenes of formula I wherein R1, R2, R3, X, Y, Z, m and n are as described herein. The compounds according to the invention act as V1a receptor modulators and are useful as therapeutics acting peripherally and centrally in the conditions of dysmenorrhea, male or female sexual dysfunction, hypertension, chronic heart failure, inappropriate secretion of vasopressin, liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, anxiety, depressive disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, autistic spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, and aggressive behavior.
US08664215B2
Compositions, kits, and methods for the treatment or prevention of ocular allergies and inflammation and the symptoms thereof containing alcaftadine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08664213B2
Compounds of Formula I, including pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof: wherein A is selected from the group consisting of: are useful as HIV attachment inhibitors.
US08664211B2
A method of inhibiting blood platelet aggregation in a mammal is provided. The method comprises the administration of a platelet aggregation inhibiting amount of a modified amino acid or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08664209B2
Compounds and compositions, and methods of use thereof, for treatment and/or prevention of multiple sclerosis, including symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, and/or treatment and/or prevention of other disease/disorder affecting the nervous system (e.g. central, peripheral) or muscle including symptoms thereof, comprising administering to a subject in need thereof daptomycin and/or daptomycin-related lipopeptide.
US08664206B2
Compounds of formula I are provided where X1, X2, and X3 are independently selected from H or hydroxy protecting groups. Such compounds may be used in preparing pharmaceutical compositions and are useful in treating a variety of biological conditions.
US08664205B2
Provided is a lotion that exhibits high percutaneous absorption inherent in maxacalcitol, allows the maxacalcitol to be stable, and exhibits less dripping when it is applied to heads. A basic oil-in-water emulsion lotion containing 22-oxa-1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, medium-chain triglyceride, a nonionic surfactant, and a water-soluble thickener and a method of treatment of skin disorders using the same.
US08664190B2
Disclosed herein are antisense compounds and methods for decreasing LDL-C in an individual having elevated LDL-C. Additionally disclosed are antisense compounds and methods for treating, preventing, or ameliorating hypercholesterolemia and/or atherosclerosis. Further disclosed are antisense compounds and methods for decreasing coronary heart disease risk. Such methods include administering to an individual in need of treatment an antisense compound targeted to a PCSK9 nucleic acid. The antisense compounds administered include gapmer antisense oligonucleotides.
US08664187B2
The present invention provides methods for the treatment of an endobronchial infection in a patient by administering to the endobronchial system of the patient a dry powder aerosol composition comprising from 90 to 130 mg of an aminoglycoside antibiotic one to three times a day for a first treatment period of 20 to 36 days.
US08664186B2
The present invention relates to Stambomycin compounds, their derivatives and their pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08664183B2
It is disclosed herein that SPANX-B is uniquely expressed in a number of human tumors and that SPANX-B is an immunogenic antigen that is recognized by human T cells inducing helper CD4+ and cytolytic CD8+ T cell responses. Specific SPANX-B polypeptides and polynucleotides are disclosed that can be used to generate an immune response. In several embodiments, these polypeptides can be used for the treatment of a variety of cancers, including melanoma, colon carcinoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, myeloma, lung carcinoma and renal cancer.
US08664181B2
A prodrug comprising at least two different pharmaceutically and/or diagnostically active compounds independently bound by cleavable linkers and a protein-binding moiety which is capable of binding to carrier a molecule is described.
US08664178B2
Acid-containing oral pharmaceutical compositions are provided wherein the pharmaceutical active agents are peptide compounds (i.e., those that include a plurality of amino acids and at least one peptide bond in their molecular structures). Certain barrier layers and/or particulate coated acid are used to reduce any adverse interactions that might otherwise occur between the acid of the compositions and other components of the composition. Use of these barrier layers and/or use of particulate coated acid is believed to promote a more simultaneous release of the components of the composition than is achieved by prior art acid-protection techniques, thus enhancing, and making more consistent, the bioavailability of the active peptide compounds.
US08664175B2
The present invention relates to polyglycerol partial esters of linear, unsubstituted carboxylic acids and bifunctional carboxylic acids with the provisos that the polyglycerol partial ester comprises an HLB-value from 2 to 10 and that the polyglycerol obtained by hydrolysis or alcoholysis of the polyglycerol partial ester comprises an average degree of polymerization of from 2 to 8 and at least 1% of the polyglycerol comprises cyclic structures. The present invention also relates to the preparation thereof and their use in fabric and textile care products.
US08664170B2
The present invention is directed to a method for preparing an unsulfurized, carboxylate-containing additive for lubricating oils and the product produced by said method, wherein said method comprises a) neutralization of a mixture of at least two alkyl phenols using an alkaline earth base in the presence of a promoter, to produce a mixture of alkyl phenates, wherein the mixture of at least two alkyl phenols comprises at least a first alkyl phenol wherein the alkyl group is derived from an isomerized alpha olefin and a second alkyl phenol wherein the alkyl group is derived from a branched chain olefin; (b) carboxylation of the mixture of alkyl phenates obtained in step (a) using carbon dioxide under carboxylation conditions sufficient to convert at least 20 mole % of the starting alkyl phenols to alkyl salicylate; and (c) removal of at least about 10% of the starting mixture of at least two alkyl phenols from the product produced in step (b) to produce said additive.
US08664166B2
A method of treating a hydrocarbon containing formation, comprising (a) providing a composition to at least a portion of the hydrocarbon containing formation, wherein the composition comprises a derivative selected from the group consisting of a carboxylate or a sulfate or glycerol sulfonate of an ethoxylated/propoxylated primary alcohol having a branched aliphatic group with an average carbon number from 10 to 24 and having an average number of branches per aliphatic group of from 0.7 to 2.5 and having at least 0.5 moles of propylene oxide per mole of primary alcohol and having at least 0.5 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of primary alcohol; and (b) allowing the composition to interact with hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon containing formation.
US08664164B2
The present invention provides a method for detecting or enriching for a target deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) present in a nucleic acid sample, said method comprising: (a) fragmenting a nucleic acid sample to generate nucleic acid fragments including a target fragment containing said target DNA and non-specifically ligating an adaptor sequence to an end of said fragments; (b) rendering said fragments at least partially single-stranded; (c) contacting the at least partially single-stranded fragments of step (b) with oligonucleotides A and B of a single target-specific nucleic acid probe; (d) ligating oligonucleotide B of said probe to the part of the single-stranded portion of said target fragment which is hybridised to oligonucleotide A of said probe to produce a probe-target fragment hybrid; and (e) detecting or enriching for said probe-target fragment hybrid.
US08664163B2
Described is an article including a sapphire substrate carrying a superconductive layer of a compound of the formula YBa2Cu3O7-x (YBCO), the layer having surface area of at least 10 cm2, and critical current of at least 100 A/cm width at a temperature of 77K or higher. In one exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the superconductive layer is between 10 nm and 50 nm. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the superconductive layer is more than 600 nm. In preferred embodiment, an YSZ layer and a non-superconductive YBCO layer separate between the superconductive layer and the substrate.
US08664161B2
A composition and method increases storage stability of cut flowers, particularly roses. A liquid composition is applied onto the cut flowers, and then it is converted to a protective polymeric film of a thickness of from about 0.001 to about 0.5 mm.
US08664158B2
An Ink transfer medium configured to receive and transfer an image on a bi-dimensional or tri-dimensional article by way of thermal transfer. The ink transfer medium includes a sub-layer made of amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), an image receiving coating, a barrier coating, a binding system, and an ink transfer coating which includes a layer having a combination of pigment systems formed by cellulose fibers, microspheres and silica. The barrier coating includes resins and mineral elements supporting the ink transfer coating applied on the APET film.
US08664155B2
The present invention provides a process for producing an activated carbon having a small average particle diameter, a uniform particle size and a relatively large specific surface area suitable for an electric double layer capacitor electrode, in an easy and cost effective manner. The process comprises calcining an easily graphitizable carbon material such as petroleum coke or coal coke, used as the raw material under an oxidizing gas atmosphere, adjusting the particle size of the carbon material, and then activating the carbon material. The use of the activated carbon produced by the process of the present invention in an electrode can provide an electric double layer capacitor having a large capacitance per unit volume.
US08664154B2
The present disclosure relates to methods of making and using activated carbon-containing coated substrates, and products made therefrom.
US08664146B2
A bulk metal oxide catalyst composition of the general formula (X)b(M)c(Z)d(O)e (I) wherein X represents at least one non-noble Group VIII metal; M represents at least one non-noble Group VIb metal; Z represents one or more elements selected from aluminum, silicon, magnesium, titanium, zirconium, boron, and zinc; one of b and c is the integer 1; and d and e and the other of b and c each are a number greater than 0 such that the molar ratio of b:c is in the range of from 0.5:1 to 5:1, the molar ratio of d:c is in the range of from 0.2:1 to 50:1, and the molar ratio of e:c is in the range of from 3.7:1 to 108:1; is prepared by controlled (co)precipitation of component metal compounds, refractory oxide material, and alkali compound in protic liquid. Resulting compositions find use in hydrotreatment processes involving particularly hydrodesulphurization and hydrodenitrification.
US08664134B2
A crystallizing glass solder for high-temperature applications, containing, in % by weight on an oxide basis: 45% to 60% of BaO, 25% to 40% of SiO2, 5% to 15% of B2O3, 0 to <2% of Al2O3, and at least one alkaline earth metal oxide from the group consisting of MgO, CaO and SrO, wherein CaO is 0% to 5% and the sum of the alkaline earth metal oxides MgO, CaO and SrO is 0% to 20%, preferably 2% to 15%. The glass solder is preferably free from TeO2 and PbO. Preferred embodiments of the glass solder contain from 3 to 15 wt. % of Y2O3 and have low porosity and high stability with respect to a moist fuel gas environment.
US08664126B2
A method of selective deposition on silicon substrates having regions of bare silicon and regions of oxide formed thereon. The method includes placing the substrate on a wafer support inside a processing chamber, introducing a carbon-containing gas into the reactor, applying a bias to the substrate, generating a plasma from the hydrocarbon gas, implanting carbon ions into the regions of oxide on the substrate by a plasma doping process, and depositing a carbon-containing film on the bare silicon regions.
US08664125B2
A method for performing a spacer etch process is described. The method includes conformally applying a spacer material over a gate structure on a substrate, and performing a spacer etch process sequence to partially remove the spacer material from a capping region of the gate structure and a substrate region on the substrate adjacent a base of the gate structure, while retaining a spacer sidewall positioned along a sidewall of the gate structure.
US08664122B2
The present invention discloses a method of fabricating a semiconductor device. In the present invention, after the formation of a photo-resist mask on a substrate, the photo-resist is subjected to a plasma pre-treatment, and then etch is conducted. With the plasma pre-treatment, a line width roughness of a linear pattern of the photo-resist can be improved, and thus much better linear patterns can be formed on the substrate during the subsequent etching steps.
US08664120B2
In a semiconductor device manufacturing method, on a film to be processed, a mask material film is formed which has pattern openings for a plurality of contact patterns and connection openings for connecting adjacent pattern openings in such a manner that the connection between them is constricted in the middle. Then, a sidewall film is formed on the sidewalls of the individual openings in the mask material film, thereby not only making the diameter of the pattern openings smaller but also separating adjacent pattern openings. Then, the film to be processed is selectively etched with the mask material film and sidewall film as a mask, thereby making contact holes.
US08664097B2
An object is to provide a technique by which a semiconductor device including a high-performance and high-reliable transistor is manufactured. A protective conductive film which protects an oxide semiconductor layer when a wiring layer is formed from a conductive layer is formed between the oxide semiconductor layer and the conductive layer, and an etching process having two steps is performed. In a first etching step, an etching is performed under conditions that the protective conductive film is less etched than the conductive layer and the etching selectivity of the conductive layer to the protective conductive film is high. In a second etching step, etching is performed under conditions that the protective conductive film is more easily etched than the oxide semiconductor layer and the etching selectivity of the protective conductive film to the oxide semiconductor layer is high.
US08664095B2
Direct growth of black Ge on low-temperature substrates, including plastics and rubber is reported. The material is based on highly dense, crystalline/amorphous core/shell Ge nanoneedle arrays with ultrasharp tips (˜4 nm) enabled by the Ni catalyzed vapor-solid-solid growth process. Ge nanoneedle arrays exhibit remarkable optical properties. Specifically, minimal optical reflectance (<1%) is observed, even for high angles of incidence (˜75°) and for relatively short nanoneedle lengths (˜1 μm). Furthermore, the material exhibits high optical absorption efficiency with an effective band gap of ˜1 eV. The reported black Ge can have important practical implications for efficient photovoltaic and photodetector applications on nonconventional substrates.
US08664093B2
Disclosed herein are various methods of forming a silicon seed layer and layers of silicon and silicon-containing material therefrom. In one example, the method includes forming a layer of silicon dioxide above a structure, converting at least a portion of the layer of silicon dioxide into a silicon-salt layer and converting at least a portion of the silicon-salt layer to a layer of silicon.
US08664092B2
A silicon wafer after being subjected to mirror polishing but before being subjected to form an epitaxial layer thereon is subjected to an ozone gas treatment that oxidizes a surface of the silicon wafer by use of ozone gas, a hydrofluoric acid gas treatment that dissolves and removes the oxidized surface of the silicon wafer by use of hydrofluoric acid gas, and a washing treatment that removes foreign substances remaining on the surface of the silicon wafer, whereby PIDs (Polishing Induced Defects) generated by the mirror polishing are forcedly oxidized, dissolved and removed. By performing epitaxial treatment thereafter, PID-induced convex defects can be prevented from generating on the surface of the epitaxial wafer.
US08664085B2
A composite-substrate manufacturing method is provided with: a step of carrying out implantation of ions through a surface of a bulk substrate composed of the nitride compound semiconductor; a step of setting said surface of the bulk substrate against the second substrate, and bonding the bulk substrate and the second substrate together to obtain a bonded substrate; a step of elevating the temperature of the bonded substrate to a first temperature; a step of sustaining the first temperature for a fixed time; and a step of producing a composite substrate by severing the remaining portion of the bulk substrate from the bonded substrate; characterized in that a predetermined formula as for the first temperature, the thermal expansion coefficient of the first substrate, and the thermal expansion coefficient of the second substrate is satisfied.
US08664076B2
A method of forming a capacitor structure comprises: forming a doped polysilicon layer on an underlying dielectric layer; forming a dielectric stack on the doped polysilicon layer; forming a contact hole in the dielectric stack to expose a surface region of the doped polysilicon layer; forming a conductive contact plug that fills the contact hole and is in contact with the exposed surface of the doped polysilicon layer; forming a plurality of trenches in the dielectric stack such that each trench exposes a corresponding surface region of the doped polysilicon layer; forming a conductive bottom capacitor plate on exposed surfaces of the of the dielectric stack and on exposed surfaces of the doped polysilicon layer; forming a capacitor dielectric layer on the bottom capacitor plate; and forming a conductive top capacitor plate on the capacitor dielectric layer.
US08664063B2
A method for producing a semiconductor device includes the steps of forming a planar silicon layer, first and second pillar-shaped silicon layers on a silicon substrate; forming a gate insulating film, depositing a metal film and a polysilicon around the gate insulating film, conducting planarization, conducting etching to expose upper portions of the first and second pillar-shaped silicon layers, forming first and second insulating film sidewalls, and forming first and second gate electrodes and a gate line; forming n-type diffusion layers in upper and lower portions of the first pillar-shaped silicon layer, and forming p-type diffusion layers in upper and lower portions of the second pillar-shaped silicon layer; forming a third insulating film sidewall on side walls of the first and second insulating film sidewalls, the first and second gate electrodes, and the gate line; and forming a silicide.
US08664058B2
A method of fabricating an integrated circuit and an integrated circuit having silicon on a stress liner are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a semiconductor substrate comprising an embedded disposable layer, and removing at least a portion of the disposable layer to form a void within the substrate. This method further comprises depositing a material in that void to form a stress liner, and forming a transistor on an outside semiconductor layer of the substrate. This semiconductor layer separates the transistor from the stress liner. In one embodiment, the substrate includes isolation regions; and the removing includes forming recesses in the isolation regions, and removing at least a portion of the disposable layer via these recesses. In one embodiment, the depositing includes depositing a material in the void via the recesses. End caps may be formed in the recesses at ends of the stress liner.
US08664056B2
When forming cavities in active regions of semiconductor devices in order to incorporate a strain\-inducing semiconductor material, superior uniformity may be achieved by using an implantation process so as to selectively modify the etch behavior of exposed portions of the active region. In this manner, the basic configuration of the cavities may be adjusted with a high degree of flexibility, while at the same time the dependence on pattern loading effect may be reduced. Consequently, a significantly reduced variability of transistor characteristics may be achieved.
US08664052B2
A semiconductor device and manufacturing method for the same are disclosed. The method includes providing a substrate that has an insulator layer and a semiconductor layer overlying the insulator layer. The method further includes forming a hard mask layer pattern on the semiconductor layer and etching the semiconductor layer using the patterned hard mask layer to form portions having different thickness in the semiconductor layer. The method also includes performing an oxygen-based treatment on the semiconductor layer to form a supporting oxide layer. A portion of the semiconductor layer is buried in the supporting oxide layer.
US08664050B2
A structure and method to improve ETSOI MOSFET devices. A wafer is provided including regions with at least a first semiconductor layer overlying an oxide layer overlying a second semiconductor layer. The regions are separated by a STI which extends at least partially into the second semiconductor layer and is partially filled with a dielectric. A gate structure is formed over the first semiconductor layer and during the wet cleans involved, the STI divot erodes until it is at a level below the oxide layer. Another dielectric layer is deposited over the device and a hole is etched to reach source and drain regions. The hole is not fully landed, extending at least partially into the STI, and an insulating material is deposited in said hole.
US08664041B2
A method and device for preventing the bridging of adjacent metal traces in a bump-on-trace structure. An embodiment comprises determining the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and process parameters of the package components. The design parameters are then analyzed and the design parameters may be modified based on the CTE and process parameters of the package components.
US08664039B2
Methods and apparatus for alignment in a flip chip bonding. A method includes attaching an integrated circuit having connector terminals to a bonding arm, the bonding arm having a chuck for attaching the integrated circuit at the backside surface, the bonding arm having a plurality of CCD imagers mounted thereon; receiving a substrate having pads corresponding to the connector terminals; using the bonding arm, positioning the integrated circuit proximal to the substrate; aligning the integrated circuit connector terminals with the pads on the substrate using the CCD imagers on the bonding arm; positioning the connector terminals in contact with the pads on the substrate; and performing a solder reflow to attach the integrated circuit to the substrate. An apparatus includes a bonding arm with a chuck for carrying a component and CCD imagers mounted on the arm for alignment.
US08664035B2
An object is to reduce variations in programming behavior from memory element to memory element. Furthermore, an object is to obtain a semiconductor device with excellent writing characteristics and in which the memory element is mounted. The memory element includes a first conductive layer, a metal oxide layer, a semiconductor layer, an organic compound layer, and a second conductive layer, where the metal oxide layer, the semiconductor layer, and the organic compound layer are interposed between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; the metal oxide layer is provided in contact with the first conductive layer; and the semiconductor layer is provided in contact with the metal oxide layer. By use of this kind of structure, variations in programming behavior from memory element to memory element are reduced.
US08664032B2
It is an object to provide a CCD solid-state image sensor, in which an area of a read channel is reduced and a rate of a surface area of a light receiving portion (photodiode) to an area of one pixel is increased. There is provided a solid-state image sensor, including: a first conductive type semiconductor layer; a first conductive type pillar-shaped semiconductor layer formed on the first conductive type semiconductor layer; a second conductive type photoelectric conversion region formed on the top of the first conductive type pillar-shaped semiconductor layer, an electric charge amount of the photoelectric conversion region being changed by light; and a high-concentrated impurity region of the first conductive type formed on a surface of the second conductive type photoelectric conversion region, the impurity region being spaced apart from a top end of the first conductive type pillar-shaped semiconductor layer by a predetermined distance, wherein a transfer electrode is formed on the side of the first conductive type pillar-shaped semiconductor layer via a gate insulating film, a second conductive type CCD channel region is formed below the transfer electrode, and a read channel is formed in a region between the second conductive type photoelectric conversion region and the second conductive type CCD channel region.
US08664030B2
An interconnected arrangement of photovoltaic cells is achieved using laminating current collector electrodes. The electrodes comprise a pattern of conductive material extending over a first surface of sheetlike substrate material. The first surface comprises material having adhesive affinity for a selected conductive surface. Application of the electrode to the selected conductive surface brings the first surface of the sheetlike substrate into adhesive contact with the conductive surface and simultaneously brings the conductive surface into firm contact with the conductive material extending over first surface of the sheetlike substrate. Use of the laminating current collector electrodes allows facile and continuous production of expansive area interconnected photovoltaic arrays.
US08664024B2
A pixel structure and a fabrication method thereof are provided. A scan line, a gate, an oxide conductor layer, a metal conductor layer, an oxide semiconductor layer, and an insulation layer between the gate and the metal conductor layer are formed on a substrate. The oxide conductor layer includes a pixel electrode and a first auxiliary pattern partially overlapped with where the gate is. The first auxiliary pattern includes a first metal contact portion and a first semiconductor contact portion. The metal conductor layer includes a data line, a source connected to the data line, and a drain separated from the source. The drain contacts the first metal contact portion, exposes the first semiconductor contact portion between the source and the drain, and is electrically connected to the pixel electrode. The oxide semiconductor layer is connected between the source and the drain and contacts the first semiconductor contact portion.
US08664016B2
Provided are an organic light emitting diode and a method of manufacturing the same. The organic light emitting diode adjusts an optical resonance thickness and prevents spectrum distortions without use of an auxiliary layer. The organic light emitting diode includes a first electrode that is optically reflective; a second electrode that is optically transmissible and faces the first electrode; an organic emission layer interposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, the organic emission layer including: a first emission layer including a mixed layer that contains a host material and a dopant material, and a second emission layer comprising only the host material; and a carrier injection transport layer interposed between the organic emission layer and the first electrode or between the organic emission layer and the second electrode.
US08664015B2
A method of manufacturing a solar cell including providing a semiconductor substrate having a first conductivity type; performing a first deposition process that includes forming a first doping material layer having a second conductivity type different from the first conductivity type; performing a drive-in process that includes heating the substrate having the first doping material layer thereon; performing a second deposition process after performing the drive-in process and including forming a second doping material layer on the first doping material layer, wherein the second doping material layer has the second conductivity type; locally heating portions of the substrate, the first doping material layer, and the second doping material layer with a laser to form a contact layer at a first surface of the substrate; and forming a first electrode on the contact layer and a second electrode on a second surface of the substrate opposite to the first surface.
US08664013B2
In a continuous processing system, a controller of a heat treatment apparatus calculates a weight of each layer from input target film thicknesses of a phosphorous-doped polysilicon film (D-poly film) and an amorphous silicon film (a-Si film), and calculates activation energy of stacked films based on the calculated weight and activation energy. The controller prepares a stacked film model based on the calculated activation energy and a relationship of a temperature of each zone and film thicknesses of the D-poly film and the a-Si film, and calculates an optimum temperature of each zone by using the prepared stacked film model. The controller controls power controllers of heaters to set a temperature in a reaction tube to be the calculated temperature of each zone and forms stacked films on a semiconductor wafer by controlling a pressure adjusting unit, flow rate adjusting units, etc.
US08663993B2
A dye binding method for protein analysis is disclosed. The method includes the steps of preparing an initial reference dye solution of unknown concentration from an initial reference dye concentrate and creating an electronic signal based upon the absorbance of the initial reference dye solution. Thereafter, an electronic signal is created based upon the absorbance of a dye filtrate solution prepared from the initial reference dye solution and an initial protein sample. The absorbance signals from the reference dye solution and the dye filtrate solution are sent to a processor that compares the respective absorbances and calculates the protein content of the protein sample based upon the difference between the absorbances. An electronic signal is created based upon the absorbance of a successive dye filtrate solution prepared from the reference dye solution and a successive protein sample, and the absorbance signal from the successive sample dye filtrate solution is sent to the processor to calculate the protein content of the successive sample based upon the difference between the absorbance of the initial reference dye solution and the absorbance of the successive dye filtrate solution.
US08663987B2
An isolated human cell is disclosed comprising at least one mesenchymal stem cell phenotype and secreting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), wherein a basal secretion of the BDNF is at least five times greater than a basal secretion of the BDNF in a mesenchymal stem cell. Methods of generating same and uses of same are also disclosed.
US08663985B2
An anchoring/capturing system for selecting or analyzing a CHO cell according to a product secreted by the CHO cell is described. The anchoring/capturing system comprises a first antibody or a first antigen-binding fragment for anchoring to the extracellular surface of the CHO cell, and a second antibody or a second antigen-binding fragment for binding the secreted product. Uses and methods involving the anchoring/capturing system are provided.
US08663977B2
A system for combinatorial processing is provided. The system includes a plurality of reactor cells. Each of the plurality of reactor cells includes a vertical recess extending along a length of the outer surface of the plurality of reactor cells. The vertical recess is operable to receive a vertical rail. The system also includes a plurality of horizontal rails extending between rows of the plurality of reactor cells. Each of the plurality of horizontal rails has a member slidably mounted thereon. The member is coupled to the vertical rail thereby enabling independent horizontal and vertical movement for each of the plurality of reactor cells.
US08663973B2
The invention relates to microscopic structures and methods of making and using the structures. A method of forming a microscopic structure of a material includes obtaining a solution (310) containing the material, establishing a flowing stream of the solution (310) in a capillary (104), wherein the capillary (104) has an inner dimension that is smaller than about 300 micrometers, and maintaining the stream until a layer is built up along an inner wall of the capillary (104) from material deposited from the flowing stream, thereby forming a microscopic structure.
US08663972B2
A rhizopus oryzae strain, mutagenesis and screening methods thereof, and methods of producing fumaric acid by fermentation. The strain is named as Rhizopus oryzae ME-F13, and deposited in China Center for Type Culture Collection with depository number CCTCC M 2010351. The strain is obtained by physically mutagenizing the original strain ME-F12 through ion injection, culturing the processed bacteria on the solid selective plate containing 2-D-deoxylucose (2-DG) and picking up 2-DG-resistant single colony. The strain is capable of simultaneously saccharifying starchy material and fermenting it to produce fumaric acid. With an improved enzymatic activity, the strain can be directly used to ferment raw starchy materials without needing pre-saccharifying.
US08663965B2
The present invention provides a novel β-glucosidase nucleic acid sequence, designated bgl6, and the corresponding BGL6 amino acid sequence. The invention also provides expression vectors and host cells comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding BGL6, recombinant BGL6 proteins and methods for producing the same.
US08663961B2
Disclosed herein are compounds, including compounds having the structure of Formula (A), (B), (C), and (D), as described in further detail herein, 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.
US08663960B2
The present invention relates to variant endoglucanases and particularly endoglucanases having improved properties over wild-type endoglucanase.
US08663953B2
Methods for production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms, including the heterotrophic marine dinoflagellate Crypthecodinium, using low levels of chloride ion are disclosed. Specifically, methods of increasing production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms while growing in low chloride media by manipulating sodium ion and potassium ion levels. The invention also relates to methods of production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine organisms at low pH levels, and includes methods for generation of low pH tolerant strains.
US08663951B2
A method for producing picornaviral capsid protein complexes (e.g., picornavirus like particles) in E. coli using a small-ubiquitin-related fusion protein expression system and an E. coli strain used in practicing this method. Also disclosed is use of the picornaviral capsid protein complexes like thus prepared for eliciting immune responses.
US08663948B2
The object is to provide a transformant which can produce a heterologous protein having a structurally controlled O-linked sugar chain having an O-Man-Gal disaccharide structure, a method for producing the transformant by using Schizosaccharomyces pombe as the host, and provide a host for producing the transformant and a method for producing an O-glycosylated heterologous protein.An Schizosaccharomyces pombe host having no omh1 gene or an inactivated omh1 gene in its chromosomes for producing an O-glycosylated heterologous protein having an O-linked sugar chain having an O-Man-Gal disaccharide structure by expression of the heterologous protein by a genetic engineering technique and subsequent glycosylation of the expressed heterologous protein. A transformant from the host, a method for producing the transformant and a method for producing an O-glycosylated heterologous protein by using the transformant.
US08663944B2
A method for differentiation of osteoarthritis from rheumatoid arthritis and non-disease conditions in a sample, comprising measuring in the sample the concentration of human cartilage intermediate layer protein 2 (CILP-2) in body fluids and more specifically, measuring in the sample the concentration of the N-terminal part of CILP-2 (2C1) or fragments thereof.
US08663941B2
The present disclosure relates to a method for diagnosing the ischemic state in a subject suffering from acute coronary syndrome who does not fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for a myocardial infarction. The present disclosure also relates to a method for identifying a subject being susceptible to cardiac intervention, wherein the subject suffers from acute coronary syndrome but does not fulfill the diagnostic criteria for a myocardial infarction. The methods of the present disclosure are based on the determination of fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT-1) and, optionally, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in a sample of said subject. The present disclosure also relates to kits and/or devices for carrying out the methods disclosed herein.
US08663931B2
This invention provides a diagnostic kit and a diagnostic marker used for diagnosing a renal disease. This invention also provides a method for detecting a renal disease comprising measuring at least one type of human megalin existing in urine selected from among full-length human megalin and human megalin fragments of (i) to (iii): (i) full-length human megalin; (ii) a human megalin endodomain fragment lacking a human megalin ectodomain; and (iii) a human megalin ectodomain fragment lacking a human megalin endodomain.
US08663915B2
The present invention relates to methods of controlling tumorigenesis, including preventing, inhibiting, arresting or reversing tumorigenesis. The present invention also provides methods of treatment, prevention and diagnosis of neoblastoma, including cancer, such as metastatic cancer. In one method one or more cells having a predisposition to turn tumorigenic are identifyied. In the one or more cells an altered amount, an altered subcellular localisation or an altered activity of a Rab binding protein is detected. In a method of diagnosing the risk of developing a neoplasmt at least one of the expression level, the activity level and the subcellular localisation of a Rab binding protein is determined. In an in-vitro method of identifying a compound capable of forming a complex with a Rab binding protein the components that form the respective complex are contacted with each other. In a method of determining whether a neoplasm is sensitive to an alteration of intracellular calcium levels, at least one of the expression and the activity of a Rab binding protein is determined. An altered expression or an altered activity of the Rab binding protein is an indication that the neoplasm is sensitive to an alteration of intracellular calcium levels.
US08663913B2
Bacteriophages in general and lambda phage in particular are powerful, flexible reagents who have yet to be exploited to their full potential. As discussed herein, the lambda phage head and/or genome comprises an easy to use and highly efficient delivery vehicle for delivering the expression products of a gene of interest systemically or to a particular tissue.
US08663906B2
The present invention provides a composition for forming a fine pattern with high dry etching resistance and a method for forming the fine pattern. The composition for fine pattern formation containing: a resin containing a repeating unit having a silazane bond; and a solvent as well as a method for fine pattern formation using the same.
US08663898B2
There is disclosed A resist underlayer film composition, wherein the composition contains a polymer obtained by condensation of, at least, one or more compounds represented by the following general formulae (1-1) and/or (1-2), one or more kinds of a compound represented by the following general formula (2), and one or more kinds of a compound, represented by the following general formula (3), and/or an equivalent body thereof. There can be provided an underlayer film composition, especially for a trilayer resist process, that can form an underlayer film having reduced reflectance, (namely, an underlayer film having optimum n-value and k-value as an antireflective film), excellent filling-up properties, high pattern-antibending properties, and not causing line fall or wiggling after etching especially in a high aspect line that is thinner than 60 nm, and a patterning process using the same.
US08663897B2
According to the present invention, there is provided a polymerizable fluorine-containing sulfonic acid onium salt of the following general formula (2) and a resin obtained by polymerization thereof. It is possible by the use of this sulfonate resin of the present invention to provide a resist composition with high resolution, board depth of focus tolerance (DOF), small line edge roughness (LER) and high sensitivity. In the formula, Z represents a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C6 straight or branched alkylene group, or a divalent moiety in which substituted or unsubstituted C1-C6 straight or branched alkylene groups are bonded in series to a divalent group obtained by elimination of two hydrogen atoms from an alicyclic or aromatic hydrocarbon; R represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, or a C1-C3 alkyl or fluorine-containing alkyl group; and Q+ represents a sulfonium cation or an iodonium cation.
US08663890B2
Provided is an electrostatic charge image developing toner, each toner particle including a core portion, a first shell layer, and a second shell layer, wherein the core portion contains a first polyester resin, a colorant, and a release agent, the first shell layer contains a second polyester resin and covers the core portion, the second shell layer contains a polymer of an aromatic vinyl monomer and a third polyester resin having an ethylenic unsaturated double bond that is polymerizable with the aromatic vinyl monomer, and covers the first shell layer, and a total amount of the first shell layer and the second shell layer is within a range of from 16% by weight to 40% by weight of the toner particle.
US08663886B2
The present disclosure provides polymeric additives for use with toner particles. The polymeric additive of the present disclosure includes a copolymer possessing at least one monomer having a high carbon to oxygen ratio, a monomer having more than one vinyl group, and at least one amine-functional monomer. Toners possessing this polymeric additive exhibit excellent stability with respect to relative humidity and excellent charging characteristics.
US08663885B2
In a positively chargeable toner, calcium carbonate fine particles having a certain average primary particle diameter are attached to the surface of toner base particles. The toner base particles contain at least a binder resin and a colorant. The calcium carbonate fine particles are ones which had been subjected to a surface treatment with a positively chargeable surface treating agent and a silicone oil. A mass ratio of the positively chargeable surface treating agent to the silicone oil attached to the surface of the calcium carbonate fine particles is set to be 7:3 to 3:7 in terms of the positively chargeable surface treating agent:the silicone oil.
US08663882B2
To provide an electrophotographic photoreceptor excellent in electric characteristics and various characteristics, capable of forming a uniform photosensitive layer and excellent in repetitive characteristics, an image forming apparatus using it and an electrophotgraphic cartridge.A lamination type electrophotographic photoreceptor comprising an electroconductive substrate and a photosensitive layer formed thereon, characterized in that the photosensitive layer contains a compound represented by the following formula (1), the ratio of the weight of the compound represented by the formula (1) to the weight content of all binder resins contained in the photosensitive layer is from 0.15 to 0.6, and the weight of the compound represented by the formula (1) is maximum among all charge transport materials: wherein each of Ar1, Ar2 and Ar3 is an aryl group which may have a substituent, each of Ar4 and Ar5 which are independent of each other, is an arylene group which may have a substituent, and each of n1 and n2 which are independent of each other, is an integer of from 1 to 3.
US08663876B2
A photomask blank for use in the manufacture of a photomask adapted to be applied with exposure light having a wavelength of 200 nm or less has a thin film on a transparent substrate. The thin film is made of a material containing a transition metal, silicon, and carbon and comprising silicon carbide and/or a transition metal carbide.
US08663875B2
A thin film composed of a material containing a metal and silicon is formed on a transparent substrate, and a thin film pattern is formed by patterning the thin film. Then, the main surface and the side walls of the thin film pattern are previously modified so as to prevent the transfer characteristics of the thin film pattern from changing more than predetermined even in the case where exposure light with a wavelength of 200 nm or less is cumulatively applied onto the thin film pattern which has been formed. The main surface and the side walls are modified by, for instance, performing heat treatment to the main surface and the side walls at 450-900° C. in the atmosphere containing oxygen.
US08663873B2
Articles for recording a hologram are described. The articles include a holographic recording medium having a transparent polymeric binder and a photoreactive dye dispersed therein. The articles also include a first compound, dispersed in the holographic recording medium or disposed over a first surface of the holographic recording medium from which surface the hologram is viewed, that is transparent to light in the wavelength range to which the photoreactive dye is sensitive and which is capable of being converted to a converted compound that is opaque to light in the wavelength range to which the photoreactive dye is sensitive and transparent to light in a different wavelength range for viewing the hologram.
US08663870B2
An electrochemical device capable of improving arrangement efficiency of bonded bodies and securing favorable sealing characteristics is provided. An electrolyte membrane 11 has a reaction region 11A sandwiched between a fuel electrode 12 and an oxygen electrode 13 and a peripheral region 11B exposed from between the fuel electrode 12 and the oxygen electrode 13. A connection member 20 has a bent section 23 between two flat sections 21 and 22. Since an adhesive layer 14 is provided in the peripheral section 11B of the electrolyte membrane 11, and the bent section 23 of the connection member 20 is bonded to the adhesive layer 14, arrangement efficiency of a bonded body 10 is improved, and favorable sealing characteristics are secured. The adhesive layer 14 has a structure in which a first contact layer having high adhesion to the electrolyte membrane 11, a barrier layer, a strength retention layer, and a second contact layer having high adhesion to the connection member 20 are sequentially laminated. Since a connection-member-side adhesive layer is provided on the bent section 23 of the connection member 20, adhesion strength can be further improved.
US08663869B2
A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack includes a plurality of SOFCs, and a plurality of interconnects, each interconnect containing a conductive perovskite layer on an air side of the interconnect. The stack in internally manifolded for fuel and the conductive perovskite layer on each interconnect is not exposed in the fuel inlet riser. The SOFC electrolyte has a smaller roughness in regions adjacent to the fuel inlet and fuel outlet openings in the electrolyte than under the cathode or anode electrodes.
US08663868B2
Shaped microporous articles are produced from polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and nucleating agents using thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) processes. The shaped microporous article is oriented in at least one direction at a stretch ratio of at least approximately 1.1 to 1.0. The shaped article may also comprise a diluent, glyceryl triacetate. The shaped microporous article may also have the micropores filled with a sufficient quantity of ion conducting electrolyte to allow the membrane to function as an ion conductive membrane. The method of making a microporous article comprises the steps of melt blending polyvinylidene fluoride, nucleating agent and glyceryl triacetate; forming a shaped article of the mixture; cooling the shaped article to cause crystallization of the polyvinylidene fluoride and phase separation of the polyvinylidene fluoride and glyceryl triacetate; and stretching the shaped article in at least one direction at a stretch ratio of at least approximately 1.1 to 1.0.
US08663867B2
The present invention provides an MEA which improves water retention properties of an electrode catalyst layer without inhibiting diffusion of a reaction gas and drainage of water produced by an electrode reaction etc. One aspect of the present invention is a manufacturing method of an MEA which includes coating and drying a catalyst ink to form a first electrode catalyst sub-layer, coating and drying a catalyst ink to form a second electrode catalyst sub-layer, and forming the first and the second electrode catalyst sub-layers on a polymer electrolyte membrane in this order, and has a specific feature that a solvent removal rate in drying to form the first electrode catalyst sub-layer is higher than that in drying to form the second electrode catalyst sub-layer.
US08663862B2
An FC voltage increasing converter includes a plurality of converter parts having reactors. Regarding the first of the plurality of converter parts provided with a thermistor, the output starts to be limited when the temperature detected by the thermistor reaches a limitation starting temperature, which is obtained based on a reference heat-resistant temperature, which is obtained by subtracting an error of the thermistor from a specification heat-resistant temperature of each of the reactors. Meanwhile, regarding the second, third and fourth of the plurality of converter parts not provided with thermistors, the outputs start to be limited when the temperature detected by the thermistor reaches a limitation starting temperature obtained based on an allowable temperature, which is obtained by subtracting a characteristic-variation temperature of the reactor from the reference heat-resistant temperature of the reactor.
US08663860B2
Disclosed is a fuel cell system which includes a fuel cell having an anode and a cathode and for producing electricity through reaction between the fuel gas and the oxidant gas, a fuel gas supply path through which the fuel gas passes, an oxidant gas supply path through which the oxidant gas passes, a voltage sensing device for detecting voltage produced by the fuel cell during power generation, and a decision device for determining whether or not cross leakage occurs between the anode and the cathode of the fuel cell, based on voltage information sent from the voltage sensing device. Moreover, the decision device determines that the cross leakage occurs between the anode and the cathode, if the voltage produced by the fuel cell is less than a predetermined value during the power generation.
US08663854B2
The subject of the present invention is a fuel cell system having at least one fuel cell which has an anode, a cathode, and a membrane element. Two electrode chambers are disposed in the fuel cell, and the electrode chambers are an anode chamber and a cathode chamber. An educt flows into the anode chamber and into the cathode chamber by means of a respective incoming stream. According to the invention, it is provided that at least one compensation region is disposed on the end of the membrane element and serves solely to moisten and/or temper at least one of the incoming streams.
US08663833B2
Embodiments of a battery taught herein are directed to preventing a displacement between bipolar battery stacks or between a bipolar battery stack and an electrode tab. A bonding portion is formed at a part of a contact surface where a collector positioned at both ends in a stacking direction of a bipolar battery stack is bonded to the electrode tabs. The electrode tab and the collector are fixed by such a bonding portion. Further, the bonding portion is formed at a part of a contact surface where adjacent bipolar battery stacks are bonded to each other. Bipolar batteries positioned at upper and lower portions in the stacking direction are fixed by such a bonding portion.
US08663830B2
A battery device is provided, which includes a fixing frame, a battery and a heat dissipating structure. The fixing frame includes a first plane, a second plane and a third plane. The first plane stands apart from the second plane, and the third plane connects the first plane and second plane. A receiving space is formed between the first and the second planes. The battery is disposed in the receiving space. The heat dissipating structure includes a plate and a block connected to the plate. The plate is disposed on the second plane and comes into contact with the battery. The block is disposed on the third plane and has an input hole and an output hole for liquid to pass therethrough. With this arrangement, the heat dissipating structure can quickly dissipate heat from the battery by the liquid flow. A battery device module is also provided in this disclosure.
US08663821B2
Light emitting materials comprising multinuclear metal complexes comprising at least two metal atoms and a metal bridging ligand bound to said at least two metal atoms. It relates more particularly to a multinuclear complex of Formula (I): {-[L]2M-B-}n, wherein L is a bidentate ligand; M represents a transition metal having an atomic number of at least 40, and each M can be the same or different at each occurrence; B is a 2-connecting short metal bridging ligand bound to said at least two metal atoms, where the metal bridging ligand comprises coordinating atoms independently selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, phosphorous, carbon, oxygen, sulphur and selenium in 1,2 or 1,3 mutual position. (1,2-μ or 1,3-μ bonding mode); and n is an integer larger than 1.
US08663818B2
The present invention provides a high corrosion resistance hot dip galvannealed steel material comprised of a Zn-based hot dip plated steel material achieving both a higher corrosion resistance of the plated layer itself by the added elements and sacrificial protection of iron metal by the plated layer or workability free of degradation caused of formation of intermetallic compounds by added elements, that is, a high corrosion resistance hot dip Zn plated steel material characterized in that an alloy plated layer containing Zn: 35 mass % or more, preferably 40 mass % or more, contains a non-equilibrium phase having a heat capacity by differential scanning calorimetry of 1 J/g or more. Furthermore, 5% or more, preferably 50% or more in terms of vol % is an amorphous phase. The alloy layer may contain, by mass %, Mg: 1 to 60% and Al: 0.07 to 59%, may further contain one or more elements selected from Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu in a total of 0.1 to 10%, and may in addition contain one or more elements of 0.1 to 10% of La, 0.1 to 10% of Ce, 0.1 to 10% of Ca, 0.1 to 10% of Sn, 0.005 to 2% of P, and 0.02 to 7% of Si.
US08663812B2
Method, apparatus, and system for preparing a cellular material based on hollow metal beads. According to the description, at least one bead chain in which said hollow metal beads are linked to one another in pairs by means of an articulation is used as elementary structure constituting the cellular material.
US08663808B2
The present invention provides a flexographic printing original plate having no wrinkle on the plate surface and having no plate surface abnormality due to laser in spite of the fact that it is a flexible water-developable plate. A photosensitive flexographic printing original plate developable by water in which at least a supporting member, a photosensitive resin layer, a protective layer and a heat-sensitive mask layer are successively laminated, characterized in that, the protective layer contains (A) polyvinyl alcohol, (B) plasticizer and (C) water-dispersible latex in the following rate. Polyvinyl alcohol (A): 25 to 80 parts by weight Plasticizer (B): 15 to 60 parts by weight Water-dispersible latex (C): 5 to 40 parts by weight.
US08663800B2
Methods are disclosed for preparing lignin from lignocellulosic biomass using rapid full or partial pressure reduction to separate and pulverize the lignin without fouling the equipment and with improved energy recovery.
US08663795B2
A process for coating articles is provided. The coated article includes a substrate, abase layer formed on the substrate; a chromium oxynitride layer formed on the base layer; and a silicon nitrogen layer formed on the chromium oxynitride layer. The chromium oxynitride layer and silicon nitride layer protect the substrate from oxidizing at high temperatures, extending the life of the coated article. A method for making the coated article is also described.
US08663793B2
A heat-dissipating black resin composition having excellent physical properties such as heat-dissipation, workability, corrosion resistance, solvent resistance, coating adherence and gloss, and being free from chromium and used for surface treatment of a zinc coated steel sheet and a zinc coated steel sheet treated thereby. The composition includes, based on 100 parts by weight: 10 to 60 parts by weight of a resin composition which at least one main resin and a melamine-based curing agent are mixed in a weight ratio of 10:2-7, the main resin being selected from the group consisting of polyester, epoxy, polyolefin, polyurethane, fluorine, phenol, acryl and polycarbonate resins; 1 to 10 parts by weight of at least one pigment selected from the group consisting of carbon black and carbon nano tube; 1 to 10 parts by weight of a matting agent; and a solvent.
US08663791B2
A composite core panel is produced by arranging a plurality of foam strips in adjacent relation and advancing the strips with one or two flexible sheets of porous reinforcement material and adhesive between platens to form a panel. The sheet on one side of the strips is folded between adjacent strips to form double wall pleats which may project either partially or fully between the strips and may have folded end portions overlying the other side of the strips. The second sheet may also form double wall pleats between the strips and be connected to the pleats in the first sheet. The core panel may be cut to form reinforced strips which are connected by adhesive in various arrangements to form other core panels. A core panel may also be formed by wrapping each foam strip longitudinally with a strip of reinforcing material and connecting the strips with adhesive.
US08663772B2
There is disclosed a minute structure including a sulfur compound and a silicon oxide. There is also disclosed a write-once information recording medium including a substrate and a recording layer formed of a mixed inorganic material and deposited on the substrate, wherein the mixed inorganic material contains a sulfur compound and a silicon oxide.
US08663766B2
An elongated protective textile sleeve for protecting elongate members and methods of constructing a fabric substrate therefore are provided. The fabric substrate has a plurality of filamentary members woven, knitted or braided with one another. At least some of the filamentary members of the substrate extend to cut edges and are fabricated of a multi-component material that includes a core of a first polymeric material and an outer sheath of a second polymeric material. The outer sheath is heat-fusible and the inner core is heat-settable. The outer sheaths of the filamentary members are heat fused at least in the regions near the cut edges to keep the cut edges from fraying or the filamentary members from pulling out of the substrate. The core is heat set to form the desired shape of the protective sleeve.
US08663765B2
A polymer is provided that preferably includes at least one unsaturated cycloaliphatic group. In one embodiment, the polymer is combined with an optional crosslinker and an optional carrier to form a coating composition suitable for use in coating articles such as packaging articles. In one embodiment, the polymer has at least one unsaturated cycloaliphatic group that is at least bicyclic.
US08663759B2
The disclosed protective bag contains an air-permeable bag, a photoreflecting material, and a photocatalytic material, where the photoreflecting material and the photocatalytic material are provided on an outer surface of the air-permeable bag. For example, an embodiment where the air-permeable bag has concave parts formed on the outer surface thereof, an embodiment where the photoreflecting material is colored fibers, and an embodiment where photoreflecting material contains first photoreflecting particles having a volume average particle size of 100 μm to 200 μm, and second photoreflecting particles having a volume average particle size of 1 μm to 5 μm are preferable.
US08663758B2
A partially metallized packaging film and method of making is disclosed. In one aspect, at least one portion of a vaporized metal stream is shielded from contacting a sheet of packaging film during the metallization process. The shield is a rigid plate and can be shaped to provide a sharp transition from transparent film to opaque film, or it can provide a gradual transition from transparent film to opaque film. The partially metallized packaging film can be used with a form, fill and seal machine or other packaging machine to create a food package with a product viewing window. In one aspect, the barrier web comprises a bio-based film.
US08663742B2
Provided are polymer-aerogel composite coatings, devices and articles including polymer-aerogel composite coatings, and methods for preparing the polymer-aerogel composite. The exemplary article can include a surface, wherein the surface includes at least one region and a polymer-aerogel composite coating disposed over the at least one region, wherein the polymer-aerogel composite coating has a water contact angle of at least about 140° and a contact angle hysteresis of less than about 1°. The polymer-aerogel composite coating can include a polymer and an ultra high water content catalyzed polysilicate aerogel, the polysilicate aerogel including a three dimensional network of silica particles having surface functional groups derivatized with a silylating agent and a plurality of pores.
US08663741B2
There is provided a method of treatment including (i) applying a treatment composition to at least a portion of the surface of a wheel rim and (ii) allowing a thus applied treatment composition to cure. There is also provided compounds and compositions useful in the method.
US08663735B2
Apparatus and method for generating ruthenium tetraoxide in situ for use in vapor deposition, e.g., atomic layer deposition (ALD), of ruthenium-containing films on microelectronic device substrates. The ruthenium tetraoxide can be generated on demand by reaction of ruthenium or ruthenium dioxide with an oxic gas such as oxygen or ozone. In one implementation, ruthenium tetraoxide thus generated is utilized with a strontium organometallic precursor for atomic layer deposition of strontium ruthenate films of extremely high smoothness and purity.
US08663730B1
Methods to manufacture a three-dimensional battery are disclosed and claimed. A structural layer may be provided. A plurality of electrodes may be fabricated, each electrode protruding from the structural layer. A porous dielectric material may be deposited on the plurality of electrodes.
US08663719B2
The present invention relates generally to herbal calf starter compositions for feeding animals, particularly young animals, and methods of making them, and more particularly relates to shelf-stable and cheaper herbal calf starter compositions for overall development of calves to early complete functional maturity and also prevents any infection by acting as immunobooster. The herbal calf starter compositions comprise effective amount of a mixture of herbal extract and/or at least one bioactive fraction from medicinal herbs and one or more additives selected from Energy Source, Protein Source, Carbohydrate source, Chelated/organic Mineral Mixture, Vitamins, Salt, Toxin destroyer and Biocide. The invention also relates to processes for the preparation of such extracts and herbal calf starter compositions.
US08663718B2
A method for producing a cactus fruit extract for use in formulating a beverage which can be used in the treatment of veisalgia.
US08663709B1
A new composition and method are described for male fertility therapy. In one alternative, the composition utilizes three nutritional supplements, Lepidium meyenii, L-carnitine, and Coenzyme Q10. When it is administered to males as fertility therapy following the recommended therapeutic regimen, enhanced sperm count, sperm quality, and sperm motility results.
US08663702B2
A method and an apparatus enabling manufacture of a microparticle dispersion liquid at high efficiency in a short time while suppressing drug degradation, etc., are provided. In a dissolving step, a poorly soluble drug and a dispersion stabilizer are dissolved in a volatile organic solvent in a container 13. In a fixing step following the dissolving step, the organic solvent, contained in a solution, is eliminated by evaporation, a pellet-form residue 1 is obtained by the organic solvent elimination, and the residue 1 is fixed on an inner wall of the container 13. In a water injecting step following the fixing step, water 2 is injected into an interior of the container 13. In an irradiating step following the water injecting step, laser light 1, emitted from a laser light source 11, is irradiated on the residue 1 fixed on the inner wall of the container 13, and the residue 1 is thereby pulverized and made into microparticles and a microparticle dispersion liquid, constituted of the microparticles being dispersed in the water 2, is manufactured. The microparticles contain the poorly soluble drug and the dispersion stabilizer.
US08663701B2
The present invention relates to a composition for pharmaceutical or veterinary use, comprising palmitoylethanolamide. In particular, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition for human or veterinary use, containing a therapeutically efficient amount of palmitoylethanolamide in the ultra-micronized form, wherein more than 90% by weight of palmitoylethanolamide has particle sizes lower than 6 microns, together with pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.
US08663697B2
A granule or a tablet of a solid dispersion that allows a drug in a preparation to be rapidly dissolved without impairing dissolving of the solid dispersion, and a method for producing same is composed of 1 to 10% by weight of a poorly soluble drug, a water-soluble polymer, an excipient and 15 to 50% by weight if a disintegrator; a tablet of a solid dispersion composed of a poorly soluble drug, 1 to 5% by weight of a water-soluble polymer, an excipient and 15 to 50% by weight of a disintegrator; and a method for producing a granule or tablet of a solid dispersion comprising spraying a water-soluble polymer solution, in which a poorly soluble drug has been dispersed or dissolved, on a mixed powder of an excipient and a disintegrator, and granulating and drying a resultant.
US08663695B2
The invention involves methods and formulations for treating or preventing rhinosinusitis, including fungus-induced rhinosinusitis in mammals. In one embodiment, the formulation of the present invention comprises a steroidal anti-inflammatory agent having a specific particle size distribution profile. The formulation may also comprise an antifungal agent, antibiotic or antiviral agent.
US08663692B1
The invention relates to drug-free or drug-loaded lipid particles of a mixed matrix made of solid and liquid lipids, and to a method for producing highly concentrated lipid particle dispersions of solid-liquid particles having a lipid content of from 30% to 95% or a solids content of from 30% to 95% (lipid and stabilizer), which in contrast to biamphipileic cremes are integer particles, and/or which upon dilution of the highly concentrated particle dispersions with the outer phase result in free-flowable particle dispersions.
US08663666B2
Provided is a water based liquid makeup cosmetic which is filled in an applicator for a liquid cosmetic equipped with a brush-like coating part to be suitably used for making up, particularly a water based liquid makeup cosmetic which is suited for making up around eyes, and in order to obtain the cosmetic, assumed is a formation comprising at least a tabular pigment, a pigment dispersant, a coating film-forming agent, 0.001 to 0.5 mass % of a surfactant and water and further comprising a spherical powder.According to the formation for a water based liquid makeup cosmetic, obtained is a water based liquid makeup cosmetic which makes it easy to rehomogenize (redisperse) the cosmetic by slightly shaking even after turned into an uneven state with standing still during storage and which makes fine lines liable to be drawn and is excellent in a water resistant fixing performance.
US08663659B2
The invention relates to oral disintegrable films, which are mucoadhesive, which completely disintegrate in the mouth of a consumer within 1 to 10 minutes, and which include an alkaline substance and optionally a pharmaceutically active substance.
US08663655B2
The present invention relates to peptides, nucleic acids and methods for transforming a bacterium belonging to the Streptococcus genus by natural competence and their use in the food and feed industry.
US08663654B2
The invention relates to compositions of the capsular polysaccharide/adhesin (PS/A) of staphylococci. The PS/A may be isolated or synthesized and includes various modifications to the structure of native PS/A based on the chemical characterization of PS/A. The invention also relates to the use of the PS/A as a vaccine for inducing active immunity to infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, other related coagulase-negative staphylococci and organisms carrying the ica (intracellular adhesin) locus, and to the use of antibodies directed to PS/A for inducing passive immunity to the same class of infections.
US08663636B2
The invention relates to targeted binding agents against DLL4 and uses of such agents. More specifically, the invention relates to fully human monoclonal antibodies directed to DLL4. The described targeted binding agents are useful in the treatment of diseases associated with the activity and/or overproduction of DLL4 and as diagnostics.
US08663631B2
The present invention provides methods of treating LAL deficiency comprising administering to a mammal a therapeutically effective amount of lysosomal acid lipase with an effective dosage frequency. Methods of improving growth and liver function, increasing LAL tissue concentration, and increasing LAL activity in a human patient suffering from LAL deficiency are also provided.
US08663627B2
Methods, compositions, and kits for repairing damaged myocardium and/or myocardial cells including the administration cytokines are disclosed and claimed. Methods and compositions for the development of large arteries and vessels are also disclosed and claimed. The present application also discloses and claims methods and media for the growth, expansion, and activation of human cardiac stem cells.
US08663626B2
An isolated composition of matter is provided comprising a heterogeneous population of cells seeded on a surface of a scaffold, wherein the heterogeneous population of cells comprises at least one pancreatic islet, endothelial cells and fibroblast cells. Methods of generating same and uses thereof are also provided.
US08663624B2
The present disclosure provides adeno-associated virus (AAV) virions with altered capsid protein, where the AAV virions exhibit greater infectivity of retinal cells compared to wild-type AAV. The present disclosure further provides methods of delivering a gene product to a retinal cell in an individual, and methods of treating ocular disease.
US08663620B2
Provided herein are uses of the Harlequin bug pheromone, murgantiol, alone or in a synergistic combination with at least one other stink bug attractant, such as methyl (2E,4E,6Z)-decatrienoate or methyl (2E,4Z)-decadienoate, or both, for attracting stink bugs such as the brown marmorated stink bug in outdoor settings. Stink bug traps comprising murgantiol, or synergistic compositions comprising murgantiol with at least one other stink bug attractant, and methods of using these compositions in traps outdoors are provided. Compositions comprising murgantiol are also described as synergistic combinations of murgantiol with at least one other stink bug attractant.
US08663619B2
Provided herein are uses of murgantiol for attracting stink bugs in indoor settings. Stink bug traps comprising murgantiol and methods of using murgantiol in traps indoors are provided. Compositions comprising murgantiol are also described.
US08663605B2
Agent for treating fibers containing keratin, in particular human hair, having in a cosmetically acceptable carrier, (a) at least one amphiphilic, cationic polymer comprising at least one structural unit of formulae (I) to (IV), wherein R1 and R4 are independently hydrogen or a methyl group; X1 and X2 are independently oxygen or a NH group; A1 and A2 are independently ethane-1,2-diyl, propane-1,3-diyl or butane-1,4-diyl; R2, R3, R5 and R6 are independently a (C1 to C4)-alkyl group; R7 is a (C8 to C30)-alkyl group; (b) at least one other film-forming cationic and/or stabilizing cationic polymer; and (c) at least one film-forming non-ionic and/or stabilizing non-ionic polymer. The invention also relates to the use of the agent for temporarily styling hair and for haircare, particularly as an aerosol hairspray or aerosol mousse.
US08663588B2
A double-layer three-way catalyst for purification of the exhaust gases from internal combustion engines which has excellent activity and thermal stability is described. The catalyst contains active aluminum oxide and a first cerium/zirconium mixed oxide which are both catalytically activated with palladium in the first layer applied to a catalyst support. In the second layer which is in direct contact with the exhaust gas, the catalyst likewise contains an active aluminum oxide and a second cerium/zirconium mixed oxide which are both catalytically activated with rhodium. The second cerium/zirconium mixed oxide has a higher zirconium oxide content than the first mixed oxide.
US08663584B2
An extraction component enabling the concurrent recovery of gold and/or palladium selectively from a hydrochloric acid media containing the base metals and other contaminants. The disclosed extractant disclosed eliminates the conventional multi-step process for such extraction by providing for an extraction method which uses a single solvent extraction reagent. Further enhancing the conventional multi step process, the conventional scrubbing stage is eliminated by a single stripping stage. The resulting solutions can be obtained from leaching many types of material such as copper anode slimes, the treatment of scrap such as electronic circuit boards and plating effluents, PGM, or refractory gold ores.
US08663581B2
A chemical pre-concentrator is provided having a support structure, an airflow conduit, and a layer of a reactive chemical compound on a surface of the support structure is used for collecting and pre-concentrating at least one chemical analyte from a dilute sample. A method of concentrating a gaseous sample is provide that includes exposing the chemical pre-concentrator with a dilute gaseous sample that contains at least one chemical analyte; and forming a conjugate of the at least one chemical analyte. A method of diagnosing a disease state in a mammalian patient is provided using the chemical pre-concentrator.
US08663579B2
This invention provides a biological component-measuring device, enabling the operator to easily calibrate the entire device and capable of measuring biological components accurately, and a method for calibrating the device. The device measures a sample including a body fluid taken through a body fluid sampler by sending it with a pump through a sample channel to a sensor. The device further includes a calibrating liquid channel through which a calibrating liquid can be supplied to the sensor via the sample channel by a switching of a first flow path changeover valve placed in the sample channel at a location upstream of the pump and connected to the channel. The method includes introducing the calibrating liquid in the calibrating liquid channel, via other channels, into the sensor by switching the valve.
US08663575B2
There is described a sample holder and associated fluid container assembly for optical analysis of a fluid sample within a translucent container of the fluid container assembly. The sample holder includes clamping members rotatably mounted to a frame for rotation, about parallel axes spaced apart from each other, between a container accepting position in which the clamping members are spaced apart from the translucent container, and an analysis position in the clamping members abut the translucent container. The clamping members each define an optical waveguide slot extending therethrough that is substantially aligned with the translucent container when the clamping members are disposed in the analysis position, to thereby provide optical access to the translucent container for optical analysis of the fluid sample therein.
US08663549B2
To provide an inexpensive heat-resisting steel for engine valves by causing Fe-based heat-resisting steel to exhibit high temperature strength not inferior to that of Ni-based heat-resisting steel. A heat-resisting steel for engine valves excellent in high temperature strength containing, in % by mass, C: 0.20 to 0.50%, Si: 1.0% or less, Mn: 5.0% or less, P: 0.1 to 0.5%, Ni: 8.0 to 15.0%, Cr: 16.0 to 25.0%, Mo: 2.0% or less (including 0%), Cu: 0.5% or less, Nb: 1.0% or less (including 0%), W: 2.0% or less (including 0%), N: 0.02 to 0.30%, B: 0.01% or less, and remnants of Fe and impurities, wherein the heat-resisting steel for engine valves satisfies formulae below: 156.42P(%)+0.91Mo(%)+0.73W(%)−12.27Nb(%)+220.96N(%)+120.59≧170 Formula (1) 13.70P(%)−6.97Mo(%)−4.32W(%)−3.29Nb(%)+119.10N(%)+27.75≧25 Formula (2).
US08663545B2
There are provided a honeycomb structure and a method of manufacturing the structure, capable of preventing or reducing generation of CO2 or harmful gas during firing to thereby prevent or inhibit pollution and global warming, and capable of obtaining a honeycomb structure having few defects such as cracks and maintaining high strength and low thermal expansion. In a method of manufacturing a honeycomb structure, in which a forming material containing a cordierite forming material and an organic binder is kneaded and formed to prepare a honeycomb-shaped formed article (honeycomb formed article), and the prepared honeycomb formed article is fired to obtain a honeycomb-shaped structure (honeycomb structure) mainly composed of cordierite: the forming material containing a layered clay mineral whose layer charge (X) is 0.2
US08663544B2
A method for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank including: a) inserting a plastic parison including two distinct parts into an open two-cavity mold; b) inserting a core, bearing at least part of a reinforcing element configured to create a link between the two parison parts, inside the parison; c) pressing the parison firmly against the mold cavities, for example by blowing through the core and/or creating suction behind the cavities; d) fixing the part of the reinforcing element to at least one of the parison parts using the core; e) withdrawing the core; f) closing the mold, bringing its two cavities together to grip the two parison parts around their periphery to weld them together; g) injecting a pressurized fluid into the mold and/or creating a vacuum behind the mold cavities to press the parison firmly against the mold cavities; and h) opening the mold and extracting the tank.
US08663536B2
An extruder unit (22) for an injection molding system (20) includes a piston (48), slidably located within a piston chamber (42), and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The piston (48) is further adapted to rotatably mount a screw (30). A motor assembly (36) is mounted to the piston housing (40) and operable to rotate the screw (30). The piston (48) is translated by a hybrid injection actuator (38), the hybrid injection actuator (38) including: a drive unit (50) operable to move the piston (48) between the retracted position and the extended position; and a gas pressure unit (93), operable to provide a boosting force to the piston (48), thereby urging the piston (48) towards the extended position.
US08663522B2
Fiber draw synthesis process. The process includes arranging reactants in the solid state in proximate domains within a fiber preform. The preform is fluidized at a temperature below the melting temperature of the reactants. The fluidized preform is drawn into a fiber thereby bringing the reagents in the proximate domains into intimate contact with one another resulting in a chemical reaction between the reactants thereby synthesizing a compound within the fiber. The reactants may be dissolved or mixed in a host material within the preform. In a preferred embodiment, the reactants are selenium and zinc.
US08663521B2
A process of manufacturing a looped material band for use as a conveyor belt, a conveyor, a transmission belt or the like in which the ends of the band are assembled by fitting together two serrations that have complementary shapes and are connected by at least one transverse locking rod that is inserted through transverse openings arranged in the teeth of the serrations. The process comprises the steps of producing the transverse openings by machining the ends of the band to remove material in an area corresponding at least to the transverse openings to be produced, placing a transverse core pin in each machined area, overmolding material in the machined areas to restore the ends of the band, and one removing, after polymerization of the material, the transverse core pins that form the transverse openings.
US08663519B2
The present invention provides a method for the production of a fiber-reinforced plastics material profiled part. The method comprises the supplying of a tubular fiber braid in which a polymer matrix is arranged by being distributed therein. A longitudinal portion of the fiber braid is enclosed in a molding press. The molding press is heated to cure the polymer matrix in the longitudinal portion. After the press is opened, the fiber braid is drawn through the open press in order to position a further longitudinal portion of the fiber braid in the molding press. The further longitudinal portion is enclosed in the press. Another aspect of the invention is the provision of a device for the production of a fiber-reinforced plastics material profiled part.
US08663513B2
Foam earplugs (90) are produced by extruding foamable material through a nozzle (12) having a throat (30) where the nozzle diameter is smallest, to produce an extrusion (34) that expands in diameter along an expansion zone (D) as the extrusion moves forward. Applicant moves dies (70, 72) against opposite sides of the extrusion and then moves the dies forward with the moving extrusion while the foam solidifies into earplugs. The earplugs to be formed have sealing portions that seal to a person's ear canal, of a maximum diameter G of about 0.4 inch, and the nozzle throat has a diameter B no more than 0.1 inch to provide a long expansion zone so the dies can begin to mold the extrusion while the extrusion is still expanding in diameter.
US08663510B2
Apparatus and methods for injection molding intraocular lenses includes an embodiment having first and second runners extending into first and second optic cavities of a mold configured to make a dual optic lens device.
US08663508B2
A photochromic curable composition comprising 100 parts by mass of polymerizable monomers which include 70 to 100 mass % of polymerizable monomers having two to four (meth)acrylic groups and 0 to 30 mass % of a polymerizable monomer having one (meth)acrylic group and 0.01 to 20 parts by mass of a photochromic compound, wherein the number of moles of the methacrylic group existent in the polymerizable monomer composition is 3 to 7 times the number of moles of the acrylic group. This composition can provide a lens having a photochromic coating which exhibits excellent photochromic properties, comprises a hard coat layer having sufficiently high adhesion and scratch resistance and has no delay in fading and has excellent storage stability.
US08663498B2
There are provided a phosphor which is a divalent europium-activated oxynitride phosphor substantially represented by General formula (A): EuaSibAlcOdNe, a divalent europium-activated oxynitride phosphor substantially represented by General formula (B): MIfEugSihAlkOmNn or a divalent europium-activated nitride phosphor substantially represented by General formula (C): (MIIl-pEup)MIIISiN3, having a reflectance of light emission in a longer wavelength region of visible light than a peak wavelength of 95% or larger, and a method of producing such phosphor; a nitride phosphor and an oxynitride phosphor which emit light efficiently and stably by the light having a wavelength ranging from 430 to 480 nm from a semiconductor light emitting device by means of a light emitting apparatus using such phosphor, and a producing method of such phosphor; and a light emitting apparatus having stable characteristics and realizing high efficiency.
US08663496B2
The invention relates to a double-layered compacted solid water-purification product, comprising at least one first layer and at least one second layer, characterized in that the first layer comprises at least one flocculating system and at least one dispersion system, the second layer comprises at least one disinfectant which liberates free chlorine on contact with water and at least one excipient for the disinfectant, whereby said excipient releases the disinfectant into the water at a controlled rate such that the combination of excipient and disinfectant releases 0.1 to 100 mg/l of free chlorine per hour. The invention further relates to the method for production of such a product.
US08663495B1
According to some embodiments, the present provides a heat transfer medium that includes, but is not limited to a base fluid, a plurality of single-walled carbon nanotubes, and a gelling formulation formed of an amine surfactant, an intercalating agent, and an oxygen-bearing solvent. The heat transfer medium is adapted for improved thermal conductivity with respect to the base fluid.
US08663484B2
A method for manufacturing a printed circuit board enables a metal residue between wirings to be removed inexpensively without side etching of a copper layer while having sufficient insulation reliability for micro wiring working. The method includes forming a base metal layer directly at least on one face of an insulator film without an adhesive, and a copper coat layer formed on the base metal layer to form adhesiveless copper clad laminates, then forming a pattern on the adhesiveless copper clad laminates by an etching method. The etching method includes a process of etching treatment for the adhesiveless copper clad laminates with an iron (III) chloride solution or a copper (II) chloride solution containing hydrochloric acid and then, a process of treatment with an acid oxidant containing potassium permanganate.
US08663482B2
A solid-liquid separating apparatus is provided with: a separating roll which has a substantially cylindrical shape with a plurality of through holes, which penetrate between an inner surface and an outer surface in radial direction thereof, and is rotatable in circumferential direction thereof; and a pair of separating filter cloths which is endless belts capable of traveling in a rotation direction of the separating roll and are wound around the outer circumference of the separating roll so as to overlap each other, wherein a material supplied between the pair of filter cloths is squeezed by being rolled together with the pair of filter cloths therebetween on the outer circumference of the separating roll, and the material is dehydrated by ventilating via each through hole.
US08663479B2
Methods and compositions for removing radium from drinking water using a natural zeolite.
US08663475B2
Disclosed herein are diatomaceous earth products containing reduced soluble metal levels, processes for reducing soluble metal levels in diatomaceous earth products, and methods of using the same. In particular, diatomaceous earth products are disclosed that have been treated with at least one surface metal blocking agent, and then subjected to at least one thermal treatment process to reduce the level of soluble metals associated therewith. Such diatomaceous earth products containing reduced soluble metal levels may be useful for various applications including, but not limited to, as filter aid materials.
US08663473B2
A method enhancing biological digestion of wastewater sludge is provided. The method uses chlorine dioxide to accelerate and improve the efficiency of aerobic or anaerobic digestion.
US08663462B2
Methods for extracting bitumen from bituminous material through the use of a polar solvent. The method may include a primary leaching or extraction process that separates most of the bitumen from a material comprising bitumen and produces first solvent-wet tailings. A polar solvent is added to the first solvent-wet tailings in order to remove the first solvent (plus any entrained bitumen) from the tailings. A mixture of polar solvent and first solvent produced by the addition of the polar solvent to the first solvent-wet tailings may be phase separated by maintaining the polar solvent-first solvent mixture for a period of time. Alternatively, the polar solvent and first solvent may leave the tailings in a phase separated state. Phase separation may occur due to the presence of water in the polar solvent-first solvent mixture. Water may also be added to the mixture of solvents to serve as an antisolvent and initiate phase separation. The separated solvents may then be recovered and reused in the method.
US08663447B2
The invention relates to various embodiments of an environmentally beneficial method for reducing carbon dioxide. The methods in accordance with the invention include electrochemically or photoelectrochemically reducing the carbon dioxide in a divided electrochemical cell that includes an anode, e.g., an inert metal counterelectrode, in one cell compartment and a metal or p-type semiconductor cathode electrode in another cell compartment that also contains an aqueous solution of an electrolyte and a catalyst of one or more substituted or unsubstituted aromatic amines to produce therein a reduced organic product.
US08663439B2
A sputtering target for producing a metallic glass membrane characterized in comprising a structure obtained by sintering atomized powder having a composition of a ternary compound system or greater with at least one or more metal elements selected from Pd, Zr, Fe, Co, Cu and Ni as its main component (component of greatest atomic %), and being an average grain size of 50 μm or less. The prepared metallic glass membrane can be used as a substitute for conventional high-cost bulk metallic glass obtained by quenching of molten metal. This sputtering target for producing the metallic glass membrane is also free from problems such as defects in the metallic glass membrane and unevenness of composition, has a uniform structure, can be produced efficiently and at low cost, and does not generate many nodules or particles. Further provided is a method for manufacturing such a sputtering target for forming the metallic glass membrane.
US08663437B2
A deposition apparatus includes a shutter storage unit which is connected to a processing chamber via an opening and stores a shutter in the retracted state into an exhaust chamber, and a shield member which is formed around the opening of the shutter storage unit and covers the exhaust port of the exhaust chamber. The shield member has, at a position of a predetermined height between the opening of the shutter storage unit and a deposition unit, the first exhaust path which communicates with the exhaust port of the exhaust chamber.
US08663431B2
A device and a method of facing target sputtering are provided, which can easily change magnetic flux line patterns between facing targets, thereby enabling to conveniently perform a plurality of kinds of sputtering such as facing target sputtering with facing mode, facing target sputtering with mixed mode composed of facing mode and magnetron mode. Thus, the device and the method of facing target sputtering effective for each material is provided. The sputtering device for forming a thin film in which a pair of target holders 2 having targets 1 arranged thereon is provided so as to arrange targets faced to each other. A pole group including a plurality of pole elements having at least a different pole direction is arranged at the back side of the target holders opposite to surfaces on which the targets are arranged. The pole elements are any of a permanent magnet 4, a yoke 7, 8 and an electromagnet 13 or a combination of them. The device includes magnetic flux-line pattern control means for changing magnetic flux-line pattern 5 between the targets faced to each other by moving at least part of the pole elements or changing at least either one of field intensity and direction.
US08663430B2
In the present invention, in forming a LaB6 thin film by magnetron sputtering, the single-crystal properties in the wide domain direction in the obtained LaB6 thin film are improved. In one embodiment of the present invention, in a magnetron sputtering apparatus, parallel magnetic field strength on a surface of the substrate is set to 0.1 times or less parallel magnetic field strength on a surface of the target.
US08663427B2
A process in which an at least partially delignified pulp fiber web having a Kappa number of less than about 130 is treated with an aqueous endothermic fire retardant solution having a pH of about 10 or less. The treated pulp fiber web has a near neutral pH of from about 5 to about 9, and is treated with at least about 20 lbs of endothermic fire retardants per ton of the pulp fiber web, with at least about 5% of the total amount of endothermic fire retardants being added at a point prior to when the pulp fiber web is formed. Also a fire resistant pulp fiber web having a near neutral pH.
US08663415B2
A method of manufacturing disposable absorbent garments and a garment made thereby. In particular embodiments, the method comprises removing notches or holes of a garment web or webs adjacent to front and back waist edges to define a series of spaced apart front and back waist edge openings. The method includes providing front and back elastic waistband webs, and positioning the respective waistband webs to overlay at least a portion of each opening, and bonding the waistband webs to each other. The garment includes first and second waist edge cutouts, wherein two side seams extend from the waist edge cutouts to respective leg openings. The garment further includes front and back elastic waistbands attached to each other at first and second waistband side seams.
US08663412B2
The present invention is directed to process for making a packaging, said packaging comprising a container (2) with a container body (5) and a container opening having an upper edge, said packaging further comprising a closure (4) for closing said container, the container and the closure being made out of polyethylene terephtalate (PET), polyethylene naphtalate (PEN), or a combination thereof, said container (2) and said closure (4) comprising respectively first (8) and second (9) attachment means, characterized in that: said process comprising the steps of in order: (i) fitting said first (8) and second (9) attachment means to each other, (ii) deforming at least one of the first and/or second attachment means up to the point of permanent deformation of the PET or PEN material, by punching, rolling, or a combination thereof, so as to create a permanent, leak-tight, attachment between said container and said closure.
US08663406B1
A insensitive explosive comprises: 34.9 wt % diethylenetriamine trinitrate (DETN), 33.4 wt % ethylenediamine dinitrate (EDD), 25.4 wt % methyl-guanidine (MeNQ), and 6.3 wt % guanidine (NQ). This quaternary eutectic is used in combination with a sensitive explosive. A low melting temperature facilitates melt casting to fill 155 mm artillery shells.
US08663404B2
Disclosed herein is a method of treating a component comprising solution treating the component for a period of about 4 to about 10 hours at a temperature of about 1750 to about 1850°F.; cooling the component to a temperature of about 1580 to about 1650°F. at an average rate of 1°F./min to about 25°F./min; stabilizing the component at about 1580 to about 1650°F. for a period of about 1 to about 10 hours; cooling the component to room temperature; precipitation aging the component at a first precipitation aging temperature of about 1275 to about 1375°F. for about 3 to about 15 hours; cooling the component at an average rate of 50 to about 150°F./hour to a second precipitation aging temperature of about 1100 to about 1200°F. for a time period of about 2 to about 15 hours; and cooling the component.
US08663399B2
An iron-based amorphous alloy and magnetic core with an iron-based amorphous alloy having a chemical composition with a formula FeaBbSicCd, where 81
US08663398B2
A method for cleaning turbines on-line comprises extracting water from air directly at a turbine site having a turbine and treating the air and the extracted water to obtain extremely clean water having a conductivity of less than 3 microsiemens/cm. This extremely clean water is then fed to the turbine to clean the turbine blades while the turbine is on-line. Preferably the extremely clean water is fed through a deionizer before being fed to the turbine.
US08663394B2
A dishwasher, in particular a domestic dishwasher, having a dishwashing compartment and apparatuses for washing tableware using washing liquor, wherein it is possible to set the pressure in the apparatuses for washing tableware. A feed apparatus for an additive is provided, and the pressure in the apparatuses for washing tableware can be set as a function of the metering of the additive in the feed apparatus.
US08663392B2
Embodiments of the present invention overcome the well-known recalcitrance of lignocellulosic biomass in an economically viable manner. A process and a system are provided for the efficient fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass into cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. The cellulose and hemicellulose thus obtained are highly amorphous and can be readily converted into highly concentrated mixtures of five and six carbon sugars using known methods. Typical yields of sugars exceed 100 grams of sugars per liter of sugar solution. Other products, such as alcohols, can easily be prepared according to methods of the invention. The modest process conditions and low solvent/solid ratios of some embodiments of the invention require relatively low capital and processing costs.
US08663390B2
A method and apparatus for delivering precursor materials to a processing chamber is provided. In one embodiment, a deposition apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a chamber having a longitudinal axis, and a gas distribution assembly coupled to a sidewall of the chamber. The gas distribution assembly comprises a plurality of plenums coupled to one or more gas sources, an energy source positioned to provide energy to each of the plurality of plenums, and a variable power source coupled to the energy source, wherein the gas distribution assembly provides a flow path through the chamber that is normal to the longitudinal axis of the chamber.
US08663387B2
A method and system for processing at least one portion of a thin film sample on a substrate, with such portion of the film sample having a first boundary and a second boundary. One or more first areas of the film sample are successively irradiated by first beamlets of an irradiation beam pulse so that the first areas are melted throughout their thickness and allowed to re-solidify and crystallize thereby having grains grown therein. Thereafter, one or more second areas of the film sample are irradiated by second beamlets so that the second areas are melted throughout their thickness. At least two of the second areas partially overlap a particular area of the re-solidified and crystallized first areas such that the grains provided in the particular area grow into each of the at least two second areas upon re-solidification thereof.
US08663367B2
A system for isolating a greenhouse gas from an exhaust gas includes a vessel having an inlet to receive an exhaust gas, and an outlet to discharge a process stream, an adsorbent contained in the vessel to selectively adsorb the greenhouse gas from the exhaust gas under suitable conditions, and a heat source to heat the adsorbent and desorb the adsorbed greenhouse gas therefrom to produce a process stream of greenhouse gas for release through the outlet.
US08663366B2
The invention is directed to a device that removes humidity/moisture from a container or enclosed area. The device includes a plastic housing having a cavity chamber. A silica desiccant is in the cavity chamber. A color indicator indicates if the silica desiccant is active. A polyester screen/filter is heat welded to the raised circles on the bottom inside of the cavity chamber of the plastic housing. The polyester screen/filter ensures that the silica desiccant stays inside the housing even when the device is reactivated in a microwave or oven. A cover with a number of holes may be placed over the screen/filter and the screen/filter may be welded to the cover. The cover and housing may be made out of food safe polypropylene.
US08663364B2
Disclosed are methods of obtaining carbon dioxide from a CO2-containing gas mixture. The methods combine the benefits of gas membrane separation with cryogenic temperatures.
US08663362B2
An HVAC system having an air cleaner, a fan configured to selectively generate an air flow, wherein at least a portion of the air flow is passed through the air cleaner, and a controller configured to control the air cleaner in response to at least one of a setting for controlling the fan and an operation characteristic of the fan is disclosed. A method of controlling an air cleaner by determining an air flow related criterion value, wherein the air flow is associated with an air flow through an air cleaner, comparing the determined air flow related criterion value to a threshold criterion value, and controlling the air cleaner as a function of a result of comparing the determined air flow related criterion value to the threshold criterion value is disclosed. A method of controlling an ozone concentration outputted by an air cleaner is disclosed.
US08663357B2
A holding sealing material includes a plurality of mats and at least one belt-shaped body. The plurality of mats include inorganic fibers and are layered. The plurality of mats are bundled by the at least one belt-shaped body. The at least one belt-shaped body has no fixing force which fixes the plurality of mats to the at least one belt-shaped body.
US08663355B2
Air cleaner assemblies and components therefor are described. An example first or main filter cartridge is described which includes a media pack comprising strips of fluted material secured to facing sheets, oriented in a stack. The media pack defines opposite inlet and outlet flow faces, with flutes extending in a direction therebetween. The media pack is non-removably secured within a filter cartridge housing, at a location between opposite sections of a shell, typically secured thereto with an adhesive. The shell also defines a closed end, spaced from, but in overlap with, the outlet end face of the media pack. The closed end is typically curved and the shell typically provides either a d/b-shape or a u-shape.
US08663330B2
An expandable cage supports adjacent vertebra in spine surgery. The expandable cage includes a first supporting member configured to engage tissue and a second supporting member operatively associated with the first supporting member. The first and second supporting members are movable relative to each other. The expandable cage further includes a cam lock mechanism configured to maintain the first and second supporting members in a fixed relative position. In another embodiment, the expandable cage includes a ring plate lock mechanism in lieu of the cam lock mechanism. The ring plate lock mechanism is adapted to maintain the first and second supporting members in a fixed relative position.
US08663321B2
Treatment methods and devices are provided for percutaneously accessing a patient's thoracic region via a controlled opening in the aorta, so that cardiac procedures, such as a coronary bypass procedure, can be performed in a minimally invasive manner. Advantageously, it may be possible to perform the procedure without placing the patient on cardiopulmonary bypass. The method may include percutaneously delivering at least one catheter into an aorta of a heart, forming a controlled opening in the aorta and pericardium via the at least one catheter to access a thoracic region within the patient's chest, and performing at least one coronary bypass graft procedure through the controlled opening.
US08663316B2
An endoluminal device for affixation to a wall of a body lumen having a neck region defined by a relatively narrow width and a shoulder region that diverges from the neck region to a relatively wider width. The device comprises a bulbous portion having a shoulder portion with a diameter profile that conforms to the shoulder region of the lumen, and a converging diameter portion sized not to conform to the body lumen diameter profile. In some embodiments, a plurality of affixation members in an area of the device that typically extends from a distal end of the device through the shoulder portion. In one embodiment, the device comprises an endograft for repair of an aneurysm, such as an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
US08663312B2
An intravascular cuff acts as a lining between a native vessel and an intravascular prosthetic device. During deployment, the ends of the cuff curl back upon themselves and are capable of trapping native tissue, such as valve leaflet tissue, between the ends. The cuff creates a seal between the vessel and the prosthetic, thereby preventing leakage around the prosthetic. The cuff also traps any embolic material dislodged from the vessel during expansion of the prosthetic.
US08663309B2
A stent-graft system comprising a graft member and a stent having a connection end interconnected with the graft member and a free end opposed thereto. The stent includes a plurality of struts extending between the connection end and the free end and at least two of the struts having different lengths such that the free end has a nonuniform profile. A method of securing at least one end of a stent-graft within a vessel is also provided.
US08663301B2
An expandable substantially spherical structure for deployment in a blood vessel or other body lumen, comprising: an open frame formed out of a closed loop of filament and configured to assume (i) a collapsed configuration in the form of a substantially two-dimensional elongated loop structure so as to facilitate insertion into the blood vessel or other body lumen, and (ii) an expanded configuration in the form of a three-dimensional substantially spherical structure so as to facilitate retention at a site in the blood vessel or other body lumen; and a flow-restricting face carried by the open frame; wherein the open frame is configured so as to permit substantially normal flow therethrough when the open frame is in its expanded configuration, and further wherein the flow-restricting face is configured so as to restrict flow therethrough.
US08663299B2
A cable fixation device comprises a clamp including a head portion and a body portion along with a lumen extending therethrough. The head portion is removably coupleable with an actuating mechanism. The lumen is sized and shaped to slidably accommodate a cable in combination with a clamping ring including a channel extending therethrough. The channel includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is sized and shaped to slidably accommodate the cable therethrough. The second portion is sized and shaped to engage the clamp. A portion of the clamp is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the cable slidable therethrough in the first configuration. The portion of the clamp moves radially inward in the second configuration to clamp the cable.
US08663298B2
The present invention is directed a polyaxial bone fixation element for use in spinal fixation to interconnect a longitudinal spinal rod with a patient's vertebra. The polyaxial bone fixation element preferably includes a bone anchor, a collet, a body, and a locking cap. The polyaxial bone fixation element preferably enables in-situ assembly. That is, the polyaxial bone fixation element is preferably configured so that in use, the bone anchor may be secured to the patient's vertebra prior to being received within the body. Accordingly, the polyaxial bone fixation element enables a surgeon to implant the bone anchor without the body to maximize visibility and access around the anchoring site. Once the bone anchor has been secured to the patient's vertebra, the body can be snapped-onto the bone anchor. The bone anchor preferably also includes a second tool interface so that a surgical instrument can be directly coupled to the bone anchor.
US08663296B2
A bone-anchored surgical mesh has slot-like anchoring members that allow for the variable placement of screws and other bone fasteners. This permits the surgeon discretion in the placement of bone fasteners used to attach the mesh to the patient's bone. The elongate openings of the anchoring members allow for a sliding motion between the bone fasteners and the anchoring members, and facilitates positioning and articulation of the mesh. The anchoring members may include bushings to aid the sliding motion of the anchoring member on the bone fastener. In one embodiment, the mesh consists of shorter modular strips that overlap each other such that a single bone fastener is passed through two overlapping anchoring members to lock the two modular mesh strips together. Additional modular mesh strips can be added on at either end, as desired, to provide the desired length of dural coverage.
US08663295B2
A posterior spinal prosthesis is configured to cover exposed portions of a spinal column especially, but not necessarily, as a result of a medical spinal procedure and particularly, to provide posterior coverage of an exposed spinal cord, soft tissue, Foramen and/or adipose tissue, associated with one or more vertebrae as a result of the removal the spinous processes and/or the spinous process and laminar hoods from the one or more vertebrae of the spine as a result of a spinal decompression procedure or other reason. A plate forming the prosthesis is connectable to spine rod constructs implanted on lateral sides of the vertebrae and projects in the posterior direction relative to the connection. The plate is generally curved in the superior/inferior direction to provide either a lordotic or kyphotic curvature depending on the portion of the spine to which the prosthesis is utilized. As such, the posterior spinal prosthesis may be used on any portion of the spine such as the cervical vertebrae, the thoracic vertebrae and/or the lumbar vertebrae. The present posterior spinal prosthesis also provides posterior stabilization of the associated vertebrae as well as aiding in preventing post operative soft tissue cavitation at the decompression site.
US08663291B2
The fastening system consists of the polyaxial ball and socket joint used in conjunction with a bone screw having threads on one end for use in anchoring to the spine and a spherical connector on the other end operating as a pivot point about which a connecting assembly moves in a polyaxial fashion. A substantially U-shaped connecting assembly has a lower receptacle that operates as a socket for housing a retainer ring within a retaining ring groove.
US08663284B2
A connecting element for a spinal column stabilization system includes a first attachment section for fixing to a first bone attachment device, a second attachment section for fixing to a second bone attachment device and an at least partially flexible intermediate section. The intermediate section is arranged between the first and the second attachment section and is in the form of a strip-like, winding leaf spring element having at least one recess. A desired spring stiffness is maintained as precisely as possible, especially in the intermediate section independently of possible manufacturing tolerances arising from the manufacturing process. At least one of the two leaf spring element surfaces of the leaf spring element includes at least one stiffness-modifying element. The connecting element may be part of an improved spinal column fixation system and made by an improved method of manufacturing a connecting element.
US08663282B2
A new intra-spinal decompression implant is introduced. One example for our presentation is a device with 2 or 3 pieces, with each piece with 2 clamps, symmetrically located on each side of each piece. The main piece has at least 2 screws which engage into 2 or more grooves in the side piece, to get attached to the side piece. The 3rd piece, as an optional piece, is the bottom piece, which is similar to the side piece, and gets attached to the main piece, using same or different screws. Each piece is attached to the human body, during back surgery, with corresponding clamps. This improves the quality of the surgery and the result for the patient. More examples are given here.
US08663279B2
A method and device for knotless fixation of tissue. A swivel anchor having a rotatable implant is used to capture suture for surgical tissue repair without requiring suture knots. The implant may be provided with a conical metal tip which is self-punching and avoids the need for pre-drilling a hole in bone. The implant includes a closed aperture to allow free sliding of a suture strand. The swivel anchor is secured in a hole in bone by advancing a fixation device, such as a cannulated interference screw, over the body of the implant.
US08663272B2
Devices and methods for sealing an opening in a blood vessel are disclosed. A device can include: an elongate, tubular non-stick outer sheath, the non-stick outer sheath having a distal end that is insertable into a vessel of a patient through the opening in the vessel wall, and having a proximal end remaining outside the patient; an elongate, tubular non-stick inner sheath disposed within the non-stick outer sheath; and an elongate, tubular adhesive film disposed between the non-stick outer sheath and the non-stick inner sheath, the adhesive film having both inward-facing and outward-facing adhesive surfaces and being supportable by the non-stick inner sheath during insertion into the vessel of the patient.
US08663265B2
A lancing device includes a main body having a drive spring, hammer, trigger mechanism and a lancet holder 22. A lancet 34 may be pushed to engage in snap fit with forwardly extending arms 28 of the lancet holder. Whilst free to move axially, the lancet 36 is held against rotation and, following use, is released from the lancet holder by rotating the lancet holder to disengage the lancet from the forwardly extending arms 28 thus freeing the lancet.
US08663261B2
A rotational atherectomy device for removing a stenotic tissue (3) from the iliac artery (1) of a patient. The device comprises a flexible, rotatable drive shaft (10) having an elongated proximal portion, an elongated distal portion, and an abrasive element (16) mounted to the drive shaft between the elongated proximal (11) and distal (14) portions of the drive shaft and configured for rapid rotation together with the drive shaft. The drive shaft is configured to extend throughout an entire length of the iliac artery to be treated and one elongated portion of the drive shaft extends out of the patient through a first access opening located in a femoral artery (9) which is ipsilateral to the treated artery. Another elongated portion of the drive shaft extends through a second access opening located in another peripheral artery (19) of the patient. A method for treating an iliac artery of a patient using such a rotational atherectomy device is disclosed. A pair of drive shaft sheaths (41, 43) extends over the elongate distal and proximal portions of the drive shaft and are equipped with balloons for a double occlusion.
US08663260B2
A rotational atherectomy device for removing a stenotic tissue from the iliac artery of a patient. The device comprises a flexible, rotatable drive shaft having an elongated proximal portion, an elongated distal portion. An abrasive element is mounted to the drive shaft between the elongated proximal and distal portions of the drive shaft and between and spaced away from a pair of counterweights which are mounted to said elongated portions of the drive shaft. The eccentric abrasive element and the counterweights are configured for rapid rotation together with the drive shaft, the drive shaft is configured to extend throughout an entire length of the iliac artery to be treated. One elongated portion of the drive shaft extends out of the patient through a first access opening located in a femoral artery which is ipsilateral to the treated artery. Another elongated portion of the drive shaft extending through a second access opening located in another peripheral artery of the patient. A method of treating an iliac artery of a patient using such a rotational atherectomy device.
US08663243B2
Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland).
US08663241B2
A full-thickness resection system is disclosed. In an embodiment for the resection system, the system may include a flexible shaft, a flexible guide member disposed within the flexible shaft, a stapling mechanism disposed around the flexible guide member, and a grasper. The stapling mechanism has an elongated portion that is at least partially disposed within the flexible shaft. The stapling mechanism includes a stapling arm and an anvil arm. The stapling arm has a longitudinal axis and includes a stapling head having a longitudinal axis. The anvil includes an anvil head. The stapling arm and anvil arm extend from the elongated portion of the stapling mechanism and are moveable with respect to each other between a tissue receiving position and a stapling position. The grasper extends through the flexible shaft and is adapted to grasp a portion of a tissue that is to be excised from an organ in the patient's body. The grasper is movable on an axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stapling head.
US08663230B2
A method according to one embodiment may provide access to an articular surface of a bone. The method includes forming a passage through at least a portion of the bone. The passage provides an opening in the articular surface. The method further includes inserting a tether through the passage. The tether inserted through the passage can be coupled to at least one device from an insertion site remote from the articular surface. The tether can be withdrawn through the passage to convey the device to a location proximate the articular surface.
US08663229B2
Instruments and methods for preparing an intervertebral space for receiving an implant. An adjustable trial implant has an adjustable stop mechanism having a stop member connected thereto to vary the distance that a body portion of the trial implant can move into the intervertebral space. Cutting tools for forming cutouts in the adjacent vertebrae use the trial implant and/or a guide to position a cutting tool which may be a burr or a chisel. The chisel cutting tool can be moveable relative to a selected trial implant or the chisel cutting tools can be fixed onto a trial implant shaped body portion.
US08663221B2
An endoscopic treatment tool includes a flexible sheath; an operating member inserted to the sheath so as to freely advance and retract; a treatment section disposed at the distal end of the operating member that protrudes and retracts from the sheath; and an operator section connected to the proximal end of the operating member including a sliding member which makes the operating member advance and retract. The endoscopic treatment tool includes the operating member consisting of a member which increases its rigidity by compression, and a member which compresses the operating member. Therefore a sufficient incision or excision is achieved relative to the distance of movement of the treatment tool by preventing a deflection of the flexible tube when in use.
US08663213B2
High-strength microwave antenna assemblies and methods of use are described herein. The microwave antenna has a radiating portion connected by a feedline to a power generating source, e.g., a generator. Proximal and distal radiating portions of the antenna assembly are separated by a junction member. A reinforcing member is disposed within the junction member to increase structural rigidity.
US08663205B2
A segmented scleral expansion band adapted for implantation within or fastening to a segment of the sclera of an eye lying outside of and adjacent to the ciliary body of the eye, is formed from a number of arcuate segments, curved to match the curvature of the globe of the eye, and joined together at each end to form a complete scleral expansion band. The band is implanted in the sclera of the eye by forming circumferential tunnels, inserting the band segments through the tunnels, and joining the ends of the segments to form a complete scleral expansion band. The scleral expansion band is useful in treating presbyopia and other ocular disorders.
US08663204B2
The invention relates to a medical instrument, comprising a signal transmitter and at least one activating device for activating the transmitter which is provided on a transmitter unit which is separate from the instrument, wherein the transmitter unit is a unit which can be fastened to the exterior of the instrument. It also relates to a method for controlling a treatment-assisting medical software by means of a signal transmitter which is arranged on a medical instrument, wherein the instrument is positionally detected by means of a medical tracking system, and wherein the software assigns a different significance to the signal output by the transmitter depending on the position of the instrument.
US08663200B2
A negative pressure wound therapy apparatus can include a wound dressing, a fluid collection container, a vacuum pump comprising a pump motor, and tubing. Additionally, the apparatus can include a pressure sensor that measures a pressure in the tubing. One or more tubes can channel a fluid between the wound dressing, the fluid collection canister, and the pump. In addition, first and second control circuits can be provided for controlling the pump motor without using a processor. The first control circuit can generate a difference signal between a desired pressure input and a pressure sensor input, and can further generate a motor control signal responsive to the difference signal. Moreover, a second control circuit can provide an override signal based at least in part on the difference signal and at least one reference signal. The override signal beneficially overrides the motor control signal to prevent the pump motor from stalling.
US08663197B2
A flexible channel to be incorporated into an endoscopic insertion portion having a flexible portion at least in part of its length, for the purpose of providing a flexible passage internally of the endoscopic insertion portion. The flexible channel is composed of a flexible tube with a helical groove on and around its outer periphery, and a reinforcing coil fitted in the helical groove on the flexible tube. At the root of the helical groove, angular projections are formed at intervals in the longitudinal direction and the reinforcing coil is tightly pressed tightly against the angular projections.
US08663191B2
Heat transfer catheter apparatus and methods of making and using same are disclosed wherein fluid connection means is provided between the distal portions of two adjacent, thin-walled, high strength fluid lumens to define a closed loop fluid circulation system capable of controlled delivery of thermal energy to or withdrawal of thermal energy from remote internal body locations.
US08663184B2
An absorbent article may comprise a chassis having a front waist region, a rear waist region, a crotch region between the front waist region and the rear waist region, a pair of longitudinal edges, and a pair of side panels extending between and connecting the front waist region and the rear waist region to form a leg opening. Each side panel may comprise a uniformly colored stretch laminate. The stretch laminate may comprise a colored elastomeric member and a first substrate joined to the elastomeric material. The side panels may be joined by a mechanical bond which may form an informational indicia.
US08663183B2
A disposable absorbent article is claimed that comprised a backsheet and an absorbent core and a core coversheet or topsheet, that in use faces the wearer, and one or more cuffs (25, 26), comprising one or more longitudinally extending elastic laminate portion(s) (10), formed by at least an elastic material (12) attached to a supporting sheet (20) of said cuff (25, 26), said laminate portion(s) (10) comprising in at least relaxed and partially contracted state a body-facing surface with a multitude of wrinkles, and whereby said elastic laminate portion (10) has an absolute contracted length Lc and a fully stretched absolute length Ls, whereby at a partial elongation of the elastic laminate potion (10) of ε=0.5: a) said wrinkles have an average wrinkle height Hw of less than 600 micrometers; and b) said laminate portion (10) has an average wrinkle density Dw between 5 and 10 wrinkles per cm.
US08663182B2
A disposable absorbent article comprising an absorbent core having a garment surface and an opposed body surface, which surfaces meet along at least one longitudinal edge and at least one end edge; a liquid permeable topsheet positioned adjacent the body surface of the absorbent core and having a pair of opposed longitudinal edges; a liquid impermeable backsheet positioned adjacent the garment surface of the absorbent core; and a waistcap/waistband disposed adjacent to at least one projection associated with the absorbent core, wherein the waistcap/waistband is capable of absorbing moisture and subsequently deforming to fill at least a portion of space between the article and a portion of the wearer's body.
US08663177B1
Embodiments described herein generally relate to improved devices, systems, kits, products and methods related to topical medicament application of measured dosages. The kits and devices can single use and/or disposable for example.
US08663167B2
The present invention relates to a device for delivering a fixed dose or an adjustable dose of liquid medicament to a patient. Characterising for the present invention is that it is equipped with a planetary gear with the purpose of increasing the power needed to deliver liquid medicament out of this type of devices. On almost all of the devices of this type appearing on the market with the purpose of delivering a fixed dose or an adjustable dose of liquid medicament, the dose volume can be set in separated steps. With assistance of a planetary gear these steps, which each represent an increase of the volume of the medicament to be delivered, get smaller, which increases the possibility to set an optimum dose volume of the medicament. In its primary field of use the invention is intended to be used together with an injection needle. The invention facilitates to create high fluid pressure in the medicament and can be used to operate an inhaler or a needle free injector at the same time as the invention will keep a compact outside measurement.
US08663163B2
A needle tip of a needle tube stuck in the skin is caused to be reliably positioned in the skin upper layer part and the injected drug is caused not to leak to the outside of the body. An injection needle is provided with a needle tube having a needle tip, a hub that holds the needle tube and an adjustment unit provided around the needle tube and having a needle-protruding surface through which the needle tip of the needle tube protrudes. The needle-protruding surface of the adjustment unit is formed such that the distance S from the circumferential edge to the circumferential surface of the needle tube is in the range of 0.3-1.4 mm.
US08663146B2
Methods for promoting angiogenesis comprising administering platelet-rich plasma to a site and stimulating the site with an electromagnetic field. Platelets include platelet-rich plasma and compositions can further include stem cells such as adipose stromal cells and cells derived from bone marrow aspirate. Methods also comprise isolating platelets from a patient's blood, forming a composition including the platelets, delivering the composition to a site in need of treatment, and electrically stimulating the site.
US08663144B2
An apparatus for applying pressure to a body part comprising multiple interconnectable bands of compressible or noncompressible material. Optional spine to further interconnect the bands. Interconnectable pieces designed for covering specific body areas. Modular arrangement of the individual components. Customized or off-the-shelf availability of the apparatus.
US08663142B1
A joint having two-axis construction having a distal member and a main member joined in co-linear pivotal relation that provides enhanced joint strength and compactness. Hydraulics further provide variable extension assist and an infinite number of flexion stops for controlled flexion flow, and two gears provide a functional gear ratio that also promotes compact construction by reducing the amount of hydraulic piston travel required for maximum joint extension. A drive gear associated with the main member is positioned between the distal end of the piston and a transfer gear partially press-fit into a cut-out in the distal member, to provide needed radial hydraulic force transfer. Although it is contemplated for joint use to be primarily in orthotic devices that assist the movement of an inadequately functioning body limb, any application for which the mechanical joint's compact configuration would provide assistance or technical advantage is considered to be within its scope.
US08663139B2
Techniques associated with an implant system for imparting vibratory massage to tissue within a body is disclosed. Methods include placing an implant device near a surface of a colon, the implant device configured to produce and communicate a vibration to colon tissue, the implant device including a case forming a portion of an exterior of the implant device and defining an interior of the implant device, a vibration generator mounted on the case to vibrate the implant device, and a tissue engaging structure located on the exterior surface of the case to engage the colon tissue, securing the implant device to the colon, and activating the vibration generator of the implant device to cause the implant device to vibrate against the colon, wherein the vibration stimulates a nerve to induce a bowel movement.
US08663125B2
Dual path noise detection and isolation for an acoustic respiration monitoring system detects noise in an acoustic signal recording lung sounds using two discrete noise detection techniques. A first technique detects portions of the signal that exhibit long-term, moderate amplitude noise by analyzing cumulative energy in the signal. A second technique detects portions of the signal that exhibit short-term, high amplitude noise by analyzing peak energy in the signal. Noisy portions of the signal are isolated using the combined results of the dual path detection. A respiration parameter is estimated using the signal without resort to the noisy portions and information based at least in part on the respiration parameter is outputted.
US08663124B2
A multistage system and method for estimating respiration parameters from an acoustic signal. At a first stage, the method and system detect and isolate portions of the signal that exhibit long-term, moderate amplitude noise by analyzing cumulative energies in the signal, and portions of the signal that exhibit short-term, high amplitude noise by analyzing peak energies in the signal. At a second stage, the method and system filter heart sound from the signal energy envelope by applying an adaptive filter that minimizes the loss of respiration sound. At a third stage, the system and method isolate respiration phases in the signal by identifying trends in the energy envelope. Once respiration phases are isolated, these phases are used to estimate respiration parameters, such as respiration rate and I/E ratio.
US08663122B2
Cardiac tissue motion characteristics acquired by novel cardiac sensors are analyzed and processed for the derivation of physiological indices. The indices are output to a hand held local or remote volumetric haptic display and enable an operator to obtain motion related dynamic characteristics of cardiac tissues. The ability to tactually sense the motion of cardiac tissue and the affect on such motion from inserted cardiovascular instrumentation enhances the operator's performance of procedures including the positioning and placement of implanted catheters/sensors, extraction of permanently implanted leads and delivery of cardiovascular therapies. Optimal haptic rendering is achieved by using computational techniques to reconstruct the physically and perceptually relevant aspects of acquired signals and bridge the gap between the inserted catheter and operator's hand/catheter handle.
US08663120B2
An area of a patient can be mapped with a system operable to identify a plurality of locations and save a plurality of locations of a mapping instrument. The mapping instrument can include one or more electrodes that can sense a voltage that can be correlated to a three dimensional location of the electrode at the time of the sensing or measurement. Therefore, a map of an area or volume can be determined based upon the sensing of the plurality of points without the use of an imaging device. An implantable medical device can then be navigated relative to the mapping data.
US08663116B2
A catheter assembly includes an elongated member having an ultrasonic beacon disposed adjacent to a distal end portion of the elongated member, a power supply releasably attachable adjacent to the proximal end of the elongated member, and a catheter. The distal end portion of the elongated member with the ultrasonic transmitter is inserted into an anatomical structure of the human body, and the ultrasonic transmitter is powered by the power supply. Using conventional medical ultrasonography equipment, a technician is able to observe and/or track on a display an image of the internal structure of the human body and an image such as an illuminated bright spot representing the energized ultrasonic beacon. After locating the elongated member, the power supply is removed, and the catheter is slid onto the elongated member to locate the catheter tip. Thereafter, the elongated member is removed.
US08663114B2
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiments includes an ultrasound transmitting and receiving unit, a tomographic image generating unit, an analyzing unit, and an analysis result display controller. The ultrasound transmitting and receiving unit is configured to transmit ultrasonic beams in multiple directions and is configured to receive echo signals of the multiple directions. The tomographic image generating unit is configured to generate a tomographic image in accordance with each of the directions of the ultrasonic beams. The analyzing unit is configured to compare echo signals of corresponding spatial positions in the tomographic images generated by the tomographic image generating unit with respect to each of the directions of the ultrasonic beams, and is configured to perform an analysis based on the comparison. The analysis result display controller is configured to display the analysis result obtained by the analyzing unit onto the displaying unit.
US08663110B2
Embodiments for providing an optimal ultrasound image for interventional treatment in a medical system are disclosed. In one embodiment, by way of non-limiting example, a medical system comprises: a medical device that is inserted into a target object and configured to remove a lesion within the target object; an ultrasound data acquisition unit configured to transmit and receive ultrasound signals to and from the target object to output ultrasound data; and a processing unit in communication with the ultrasound data acquisition unit, the processing unit being configured to form a plurality of ultrasound images based on the ultrasound data and perform an image processing upon each of the ultrasound images to detect a position of the medical device.
US08663099B2
In accordance with the present design there is provided a method utilizing a novel laryngoscope design that inserts a bougie along a canal on one side of a sheath; the sheath being further comprised of a canal capable of being threaded with a bougie, providing a method of access for guiding a Bougie into the trachea, while facilitating a method for the removal of oral/pharyngeal secretions, by placing a suction catheter in a canal through which a method for creating suction is provided; and further the bougie canal provides a method of facilitating placement of a topical anesthetic by providing a channel through which a local anesthetic can be sprayed.
US08663094B2
An in-vivo observation system provided with a capsule endoscope including an in-vivo observation section, a battery, a magnetic field detection section, a power supply switch that controls a power supply and a power supply control section that causes the power supply switch to operate according to an internal signal from the magnetic field detection section, and a magnetic field generating apparatus including a magnetic field generating section, an operation section that outputs an operation signal according to an operation by a user and a masking section that masks an operation signal inputted to the magnetic field generating section for a predetermined period.
US08663091B2
A medical robotic system includes an entry guide with articulatable instruments extending out of its distal end, an entry guide manipulator providing controllable four degrees-of-freedom movement of the entry guide, and a controller configured to limit joint velocities in the entry guide manipulator so as to prevent movement of tips of the articulatable instruments from exceeding a maximum allowable linear velocity when the entry guide manipulator is being used to move the entry guide.
US08663090B2
An endoscope cleaning sheath includes a flexible tube body that is mounted to an insertion portion having a bending portion included in an endoscope, and that has a plurality of through-holes parallel to a longitudinal axis; and a cylindrical distal end nozzle that is provided at a distal end portion of the flexible tube body and that sprays at least one of a gas and a liquid at least at an observation window provided at a distal end portion of the insertion portion of the endoscope. The through-holes are a hole for an endoscope insertion portion through which the insertion portion of the endoscope is inserted, and at least a first fluid conduit that supplies gas and a second fluid conduit that supplies liquid. The first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are provided at positions in a direction that is different from a bending direction of the bending portion of the insertion portion that is inserted and disposed in the hole for an endoscope insertion portion. The flexible tube body includes a sheath bending portion that covers a circumference of the bending portion of the insertion portion that is inserted and disposed in the hole for an endoscope insertion portion. The sheath bending portion includes at least one concave portion or hole that decreases a bending resistance of the sheath bending portion to a resistance that is less than a bending resistance of the flexible tube body.
US08663088B2
A clip or flexible handles extension facilitate simultaneous retention and operation of a bronchoscope and associated bronchoscopic tools held in one hand to allow operation by a single practitioner. Also provided is an adapter for the connection port of the working channel of a bronchoscope which performs both sealing and tool-locking functions. Also disclosed is a guide sheath arrangement with a reduced flexibility proximal portion to facilitate insertion of tools into the guide sheath.
US08663087B2
An erogenic stimulation device for men having a compact state for inconspicuous storage when not in use which expands to an approximate size and shape of a female pelvic region when filled with warm water, the cooperation of warm water with elastomeric interior and exterior elements provides a more natural sensation of warmth, pressure, and responsive motion for the user, the device including contours simulating the structural features of the pelvic region and buttocks and an anatomically correct depiction of female genitalia including vulva and vaginal opening.
US08663083B2
A system and method for planning a necrosis-inducing therapy and subsequent administration of a necrosis-targeting agent are described. The system takes into account the effect of necrosis-induction therapy as a basis for the biodistribution estimate of the necrosis-targeting agent. This interaction between the different calculation steps is essential for an accurate planning result. A computer-readable medium and use are also provided.
US08663082B2
The water aeration capsules provide a quick and highly portable system for aerating polluted water. The capsules contain bubbles of air, oxygen, and/or other gas(es) surrounded by a water soluble membrane. The capsules are ballasted to sink. Magnetically attractive ballast elements may be provided, and a magnetic sheet may be placed on the bottom of a smaller body of water to enhance the settling of the capsules. The gas burial disposal capsules may be formed of non-degradable material for substantially permanent gas storage, or of degradable material to allow the gases to slowly permeate the surrounding earth for slow and relatively harmless release. The gas may be pressurized within the capsules to approximately the pressure of the surrounding earth.
US08663079B2
A deflection roller for guiding a nonwoven web is described, which deflection roller comprises a guide jacket, which is mounted so as to be rotatable and on the circumferential surface of which the nonwoven web can be guided so as to be in contact therewith. In order to achieve a smooth-running and low-inertia guide jacket, the jacket material is formed by a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic. For preventing any interaction between the nonwoven web to be guided and the guide jacket, the circumferential surface is formed, as suggested by the invention, by a wear-resistant layer that is applied to the jacket material and that has an electrical conductivity.
US08663075B2
A change of direction machine provides training for various muscles and body structures of a user. In one embodiment, the machine provides focused training for the muscles and body structures associated with making changes in the body's direction. The machine may comprise a pivoting arm assembly supported by a structure. The arm assembly may be configured to provide a resistance such that when a user engages the arm assembly a downward resistance may be applied to the user. The user may engage the arm assembly with his or her upper body and perform training or exercises involving lifting and lowering the user's body, moving laterally, or both. The machine may have various adjustable components to fit a user and to provide the desired resistance to the user.
US08663074B2
An exercise apparatus including a frame, a carriage, a central pulley, first and second frame pulleys, a pull cord, and a locking mechanism. The frame defines a longitudinal axis. The carriage is mounted on the frame and movable along the longitudinal axis. The central pulley is attached to the carriage. The first and second frame pulleys are attached to the frame. The pull cord has first and second handle portions. The pull cord is looped about the pulleys. The central pulley is between the first and second frame pulleys along the pull cord. The first frame pulley is between the first handle portion and the central pulley along the pull cord. The second frame pulley is between the second handle portion and the central pulley along the pull cord. The locking mechanism is configured to engage the central pulley.
US08663068B1
An exercise guidance system displays either a workout option or different exercise options based on a person's exercise objectives. In one embodiment, the displayed option or options is additionally based at least partially upon a metabolic equivalent. In another embodiment, the displayed option or options is additionally based at least partially upon the time current available time for the workout.
US08663067B2
A method of operating an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle. The automatic transmission, when the motor vehicle is driven with an actuated accelerator and an engaged starting clutch, and then coasts with the accelerator not actuated and the starting clutch engaged, during coasting with the engaged starting clutch the transmission remaining in the gear in which it was previously driven with the gas pedal actuated. When the transmission input speed of the automatic transmission drops below a limit value, during coasting, the starting clutch is disengaged. During coasting with a disengaged starting clutch in the automatic transmission, a gear is shifted that matches the current speed of the motor vehicle so that, when the starting clutch is subsequently engaged, a gear is available that matches the speed of the motor vehicle prevailing at the time the starting clutch is subsequently engaged.
US08663046B2
A transmission includes a main gearbox and an electric machine. The main gearbox has a primary shaft, a secondary shaft and gear sets, each having a driving gearwheel carried by a respective primary shaft and a driven gearwheel carried by a respective secondary shaft. A first gearwheel and a second gearwheel meshing with each other are idly mounted on the primary shaft and on the secondary shaft, respectively, and are selectively connectable for rotation with the respective shaft by a first coupling device and of a second coupling device, respectively. The electric machine is releasably connected to the first gearwheel or to the second gearwheel, such that with the first coupling device in an engaged position the electric machine is able to transmit torque to the primary shaft on which the first gearwheel is mounted, while with the second coupling device in an engaged position, the electric machine is able to transmit torque to the secondary shaft on which the second gearwheel is mounted. The transmission further includes a secondary gearbox with two or more gears between the electric machine and the first or the second gearwheel.
US08663034B2
A kickoff tee and a placement tee are disclosed. The kickoff tee has a kicking surface surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped support wall defining an open-ended kicking channel. The support wall can further include a pair of opposing protrusions that taper from the top of the support wall downwards toward the kicking surface. The placement tee exhibits a kicking surface atop a kicking platform. The kicking surface includes a kicking target than can be surrounded by a plurality of concentric support ridges. Additionally, the placement tee has a lateral surface extending from the kicking surface downward towards the ground. The lateral surface can exhibit one or more visual indicators to facilitate lining up of a place kick.
US08663031B2
A golf ball 2 includes a core 4, a mid layer 6, and a cover 8. The difference between: a hardness H(5.0) at a point located at a distance of 5 mm from the central point of the core 4; and a hardness Ho at the central point is 6.0 or greater. The difference between: a hardness H(12.5) at a point located at a distance of 12.5 mm from the central point; and the hardness H(5.0) is 4.0 or less. The difference between a hardness Hs at the surface of the core 4 and the hardness H(12.5) is 10.0 or greater. The difference between the hardness Hs and the hardness Ho is 22.0 or greater. In the core 4, there is no zone in which a hardness decreases from the central point to the surface. A hardness H3 of the cover 8 is greater than a hardness H2 of the mid layer 6. The cover 8 is formed from a resin composition containing a polyamide copolymer including a polymerized fatty acid (a-1), sebacic acid and/or azelaic acid (a-2), and a polyamine component (a-3).
US08663027B2
Embodiments of golf club face plates with internal cell lattices are presented herein. Other examples and related methods are also disclosed herein.
US08663019B2
Gaming machine chairs and wagering game systems and machines with a gaming chair are presented herein. A gaming chair is disclosed that includes a base, a seat portion supported by the base, and at least one actuator attached to the seat portion to selectively move the seat portion. A movable shroud at least partially circumscribes the base and the actuator(s) to inhibit access thereto. The movable shroud is attached to the actuator(s) for concurrent movement therewith. Optionally, the base may be attached to both the seat portion and the actuator(s). In this instance, the actuator(s) may be pivotably mounted to a chair support structure, whereas the base may lack a direct connection to the chair's support structure. An optional flexible boot at least partially circumscribes the base and the actuator(s). The moveable shroud and flexible boot cooperate to substantially conceal and inhibit access to the base and the actuator(s).
US08663018B2
Disclosed are various embodiments enabling a saved state of an application to be stored at a central location and to be retrieved by multiple computing devices executing the application. Accordingly, saved states of applications and interfaces are also enabled to follow a user from one personal computing device to the next.
US08662997B1
In certain embodiments, computer systems and methods are provided that allow a game distribution platform to distribute, update and/or control copies of games published across multiple game portals. In some embodiments, copies of the games are maintained in data storage on the game distribution platform and distributed to game portals and/or gaming devices. Additional content for purchase may also be stored on the data storage and available for purchase during a gaming session. Advantageously, in certain embodiments the game distribution platform enables game portals and/or gaming devices to receive the latest version of a game and/or a player's purchased content when a player selects to play the game.
US08662993B1
The player makes a wager to receive a plurality of primary game arrays. Winning primary game outcomes occur when specific primary game array positions, designated by paylines, are randomly assigned winning combinations of indicia. The winning game outcomes of a plurality of primary game arrays are converted to symbols corresponding to the winning primary game outcomes to form a secondary game array. Winning secondary game outcomes occur when winning combinations of symbols occur on the secondary game array paylines.
US08662985B2
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for providing a gaming apparatus. The gaming apparatus includes a primary display area, a wager data device, a secondary display area, and a controller. The wager data device receives wager data indicative of a wager submitted by a player. Results of the base game are displayed on the primary display area. Credits earned in the base game are converted to points in the secondary game. Results of the secondary game are displayed on the secondary display area while the base game is being played, in relation to predetermined point levels for each round of the secondary game. Based on the achieved point levels and the predetermined point levels for each round of the secondary game, it is determined whether to advance the player or to end the secondary game.
US08662984B2
A reel assembly includes a mounting bracket including a substantially planar mounting bracket body. A reel motor is connected to a first lateral side of the mounting bracket and a reel superstructure is connected to be driven by the reel motor about a rotational axis extending substantially perpendicular to the plane of the mounting bracket body. A mounting flange is located at a top edge of the mounting bracket. This mounting flange includes a substantially planar surface lying in a plane extending transversely to the plane of the mounting bracket body, preferably forming a “T” shape with the planar mounting bracket body as viewed in transverse section. A stabilizing structure is located at a rear edge of the mounting bracket in a spaced apart relationship with the mounting flange, and a locking structure is located at an intersection of the top edge of the mounting bracket and the front edge of the mounting bracket.
US08662983B2
An electronic game system (100, FIG. 1) displays game element images (246, FIG. 2) within multiple game element areas (240). If a triggering event occurs (312, FIG. 3), a set of video images (402, FIG. 4) is overlayed over one or more of the game element images. Portions of the game element images may be visible during at least a portion of the duration of the set of video images. Various game element images (504, FIG. 5) can be replaced with altered images (608, FIG. 6) and/or other game element images (702, FIG. 7) while the set of video images is being displayed, thus causing the appearance that the set of video images is interacting with the game elements. Embodiments are incorporated into a wagering game system, such as an electronic slot machine game.
US08662982B1
A method for a game includes providing a plurality of individual gaming machines for playing a base game, where an outcome of each gaming machine is determined at least in part by chance, and communicatively coupling a progressive bonus apparatus to said plurality of individual gaming machines. The method includes creating value elements and inserting them onto individual gaming machines in a bank of gaming machines. The value elements can be seen visually by players so that the players can monitor the status of the bonus game while playing the base game. Also disclosed is an apparatus capable of carrying out the above method as well as a media carrying an instruction set for carrying out the above method.
US08662972B2
A method for unloading crop stored in a grain tank of a self-propelled combine harvester into a drivable collecting container equipped with a drive unit includes positioning the collecting container relative to the combine harvester and moving the collecting container parallel thereto while the crop is fed to the collecting container directly or indirectly by way of a grain tank discharge pipe equipped with an outlet chute, simultaneously with the harvesting operation.
US08662970B2
An air conditioning register includes a retainer having an elongated opening, a first fin, and a plurality of second fins. The first fin is arranged along long sides of the opening at a downstream position in the retainer. The second fins are arranged along short sides at an upstream position in the retainer. The retainer includes a pair of facing inner wall surfaces corresponding to the long sides of the opening. First inclined surfaces that are continuous with the long sides of the opening and second inclined surfaces that are continuous with the first inclined surfaces through ridges are each formed in the corresponding inner wall surface of the retainer.
US08662966B2
A shellfish cracking utensil has a handle portion and a head portion, with the head portion comprising (a) a base region having a lower part and an upper part, with the lower part being connected to one end of the handle portion, and (b) first and second tines connected to, and extending outwardly from, the upper part of the base region. The tines are preferably of substantially equal length, extending in substantially parallel relationship and defining a gap between them for inserting a shell portion of a shellfish. The two tines are substantially prong-shaped with the second tine wider than the first tine. The second tine has a bump portion on an edge thereof facing the first tine, preferably near the end of the second tine.
US08662961B2
A seasoning plate is placed on a polishing pad and performs seasoning of the polishing pad by abrading the polishing pad through the friction caused by rotation of the polishing pad. The seasoning plate includes: conditioners that abrade the polishing pad; a round flexible substrate that has the conditioners attached to the lower face thereof; an O-ring that is placed on the upper face of the flexible substrate, the O-ring forming a circle concentric with the flexible substrate; and a weight plate serving as a weight portion that is placed on the O-ring and applies weight for deforming the flexible substrate.
US08662958B2
A chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) apparatus for manufacturing a semiconductor device. The apparatus includes: a spin chuck for supporting and rotating a semiconductor wafer; a polisher comprising a polishing pad for planarizing a surface of the semiconductor wafer, the polisher moving along the surface of the semiconductor wafer by a polishing arm; and a polisher supporting device for supporting the polisher and maintaining the polisher in a horizontal state, while polishing an edge part of the surface of the semiconductor wafer, in order to improve polishing uniformity of a center part and the edge part of the semiconductor wafer. Accordingly, polishing uniformity of the center part and edge part of the semiconductor wafer may be improved, and a height of the polisher supporting device may be optimized according to a polishing degree. Also, the polisher may be easily supported, wear and tear of the support head may be minimized, and the support head may function as a conditioner.
US08662952B2
A diving stick of the type that, after being tossed into a swimming pool, sinks to the bottom while maintaining an upright posture so that it be can easily grasped by a diver. The stick includes a soft hollow shank designed to prevent accidental impalement.
US08662945B2
The present invention relates to an outboard drive device (10) comprising an outboard motor (11) having a crankshaft (16), wherein said outboard drive device (10) further comprises a propeller which propeller is below the hull (13) of a boat when said outboard drive device (10) is operated, and a power coupling system for transferring power from the motor (11) to the propeller. The power coupling system comprises a power transfer device (17) for transferring output power from the crankshaft (16) to a transmission drive shaft (19) of a transmission (18), and a power transfer means (20) for transferring output power from the transmission (18) to a drive shaft (21) of an endless loop flexible drive coupling (22) operatively connecting said transmission (18) to a propeller shaft (12) for driving said propeller, wherein the crankshaft (16) is substantially horizontal and substantially parallel to the propeller shaft (12) when said outboard drive device (10) is operated. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing said outboard drive device (10).
US08662944B2
A vehicle is provided that is amphibious to include submersible operations. The vehicle has wings configured to generate a sufficient dive force to oppose buoyancy of the vehicle, when desired, which are disposed on opposing sides of a central hull. The vehicle is configured to enable easy transition from land operations to water operations, to include water surface travel as well as submerged travel.
US08662943B2
Exemplary embodiments of methods and apparatuses to provide a cooling arrangement for a system are described. The system includes a component coupled to a heat sink. A signal associated with a temperature control of the component is asserted. A target temperature of the heat sink is adjusted based on the signal. In one embodiment, a temperature control loop of the heat sink is operated. The temperature of the heat sink may be monitored using one or more sensors placed on the heat sink. An operation of the component, a cooling unit coupled to the heat sink, or both, may be adjusted based on a relationship between the temperature of the heat sink and an adjusted target temperature. Adjusting the target temperature of the heat sink based on the asserted signal increases efficiency of the system while decreasing cooling.
US08662941B2
Apparatus for supporting the wires in a hot wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD) system are provided herein. In some embodiments, a terminal connector for a hot wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD) system may include a base; a wire clamp moveably disposed with relation to the base along an axis; a reflector shield extending from the wire clamp in a first direction along the axis; and a tensioner coupled to the base and wire clamp to bias the wire clamp in a second direction opposite the first direction.
US08662934B2
Connector receptacles that may be used in a variety of applications, may have a desirable aesthetic appearance, may be durable and reliable, and may be manufactured in a simplified manner. One example may provide a receptacle that may be used in a number of different devices to avoid having to redesign a receptacle for different devices. Another example may maintain a desirable appearance by reducing the chance of marring or functional damage during insertions of an insert.
US08662928B1
A receptacle connector adapted for engaging with a plug connector includes an inner insulating housing, a plurality of terminals integrally molded to the inner insulating housing, a shielding shell, a waterproof plate and an outer insulating housing. The shielding shell is looped from a first metal plate with an inserting space being formed therein. The inner insulating housing together with the terminals is inserted into the inserting space. The shielding shell defines two buckling holes. The waterproof plate is made of a second metal plate thinner than the first metal plate in thickness, and is fastened on the shielding shell. Two opposite sides of the waterproof plate are punched upward to form two receiving hats corresponding to the two buckling holes. The outer insulating housing is integrally molded around the shielding shell, the waterproof plate and the inner insulating housing with soldering portions of the terminals projected outside.
US08662927B2
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing, a contact module inserted into the insulative housing, a metal shell locked to the insulative housing, a number of cables and an outer shell over-molding the metal shell and the cables. The contact module includes an insulative block and a number of contacts embedded in the insulative block. The contacts include a plurality of cantilevered contacting portions extending beyond the insulative block and a plurality of soldering pads exposed on the insulative block. The cantilevered contacting portions of all the contacts overlap each other from a side view, while the soldering pads of all the contacts are alternately arranged in two parallel planes, respectively, from the side view.
US08662918B2
An electrical connector includes an insulating body and a plurality of first terminals, disposed side by side in the insulating body. The insulating body is formed with at least two bridging-portion removal holes. Bridging portions between the first terminals are capable of being removed through the bridging-portion removal holes. The at least two bridging-portion removal holes are respectively formed through plate surfaces of the insulating body, and the at least two bridging-portion removal holes are arranged in a staggered manner in a front-to-rear direction.
US08662916B2
A board connector comprising: a contact comprising a first and a second clipping portion and for clipping therebetween a board which is inserted from the outside, a first beam portion supporting the first clipping portion, and a second beam portion supporting the second clipping portion; a housing that supports the contact; an actuator that is fixed to the first beam portion; and a metal locking member that is fixed to the actuator, wherein the metal locking member has an action point portion that is formed at a position which is brought into physical contact with the board at the time of insertion of the board, and that is pushed by the board at the time of the insertion of the board.
US08662912B2
An RJ-type plug mating with an RJ-type housing includes a plug body. The plug body includes a latching block and a latching beam respectively protruding from two opposite surfaces thereof. The latching block includes a resisting end connecting to the first surface, a front end opposite to the resisting end, and a guiding surface connecting the resisting end and the front end. The guiding surface is operable to guide the latching block to be latched into or be separated from a top of the RJ-type housing. The latching beam is operable to latch a bottom of the RJ-type housing.
US08662909B2
A fast coupling apparatus on a media-carrying line is provided. The fast coupling apparatus includes a plug piece arranged on a first line end and a receiver piece arranged on a second line end coupled together with the plug piece, where an electrically-conductive contact sleeve is arranged on an inner periphery of the receiver piece, the electrically-conductive contact sleeve is electrically-conductively connected with the receiver piece and has a contact lip that protrudes from a surface of the contact sleeve and touches the plug piece in a connected position.
US08662906B2
The invention relates to a plug-and-socket connector with a first housing with first electrical contacts and a second housing with second electrical contacts. The first housing has a lever and a blocking element. The second housing has a toothed surface on which the lever arm can be brought into contact with an actuating surface upon pivoting in order to draw the first and the second housing together into an end position in which the first and the second contacts are contacted with each other.
US08662903B2
An electric component structure is provided with at least two electrical conductive parts, an insulator and a magnetic flux generating structure. The electrical conductive parts are arranged with an electric line of force existing between adjacent ones of the conductive parts. The insulator holds the conductive parts. The magnetic flux generating structure generates a magnetic flux with magnetic flux lines oriented in a direction different from a direction of the electric line of force existing between the adjacent ones of the conductive parts.
US08662893B2
The present invention relates to thermochromatic inks. The present invention provides a toy, wherein the toy includes at least one thermochromatic ink. The present invention provides a pre-printed item, wherein when the temperature of the pre-printed item is changed to particular temperatures, the color of a marking, the color of a drawing, or both, change. The present invention provides an interactive item, wherein the visual appearance of the item is changed by changing the color of at least one of a first or second inks. The present invention provides a drawing device, wherein the position of a substrate and a temperature element are such that a thermochromatic ink does not change color unless sufficient pressure is applied to the substrate effective to deflect the surface of the substrate and bring it temporarily sufficiently more proximate to the temperature element. The present invention provides a smart wand for drawing on a substrate that includes thermochromatic ink. The present invention provides a backlight system. The present invention provides a light box.
US08662881B2
A stretch-blow molding machine with at least one blow molding station, where for electric stretching, at least one stretching rod is coupled with a drive unit comprising an electric servomotor, and the stretching rod can be changed in a defined, at least approximately axial direction, and has a stretching rod quick change device transferable between a centered operating position and a change position.
US08662878B2
A laminate nanomold includes a layer of perfluoropolyether defining a cavity that has a predetermined shape and a support layer coupled with the layer of perfluoropolyether. The laminate can also include a tie-layer coupling the layer of perfluoropolyether with the support layer. The tie-layer can also include a photocurable component and a thermal curable component. The cavity can have a broadest dimension of less than 500 nanometers.
US08662863B2
In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, a system and method are provided for converting a conventional automobile engine into a gas compressor. In various embodiments, the system and method may provide an economical and efficient gas compressor by modification of a balance-opposed internal-combustion engine to provide a balance-opposed gas compressor. More specifically, in some embodiments, the modification may include a uniquely designed cylinder head adapted to convert an automobile engine into a gas compressor for the recovery, gathering, transfer, or staged compression of natural gas. In one embodiment, a four-cylinder balance-opposed engine is utilized.
US08662860B2
A microfluidic driving system includes a first planar electrode, a second planar electrode, a third planar electrode, a fourth planar electrode, a power supply unit and a detection module. The second, third and fourth planar electrodes are disposed parallel to the first planar electrode and face-to-face with the first planar electrode to form an accommodation space for accommodating a fluid. An AC power is provided by the power supply unit and an AC electrical field is applied by alternately connecting the third planar electrode and the fourth planar electrode with the first planar electrode for driving the first fluid and the second fluid to flow; and then AC electrical field is also applied by connecting the second planar electrode to the first planar electrode to mix the first fluid and the second fluid. Finally, a detection is performed upon a mixture of the fluids through the detection module.
US08662859B2
Systems and methods for monitoring operation of a pump, including verifying operation or actions of a pump, are disclosed. A baseline profile for one or more parameters of a pump may be established. An operating profile may then be created by recording one or more values for the same set of parameters during subsequent operation of the pump. The values of the baseline profile and the operating profile may then be compared at one or more points or sets of points. If the operating profile differs from the baseline profile by more than a certain tolerance an alarm may be sent or another action taken, for example the pumping system may shut down, etc.
US08662854B1
The disclosed embodiments relate to turbulence inducing mechanisms applied to portions of wind turbine blades and methods for increased power production using turbulence inducing mechanisms. Embodiments provide methods and mechanisms for increasing the range of optimal wind performance for wind turbines and provide for increasing the maximum energy producing capacity of wind turbines at a given wind speed. Some embodiments have a rotor blade that includes a capture side and a drag side. The blade also includes a film disposed over at least a portion of only the drag side of the blade. The film comprises a conformable sheet material with a plurality of perforations therethrough which are configured to induce turbulence on a fluid flowing thereover. The turbulence inducing film reduces the drag of the blade and consequently increases the blade's rotational speed at a given wind speed, which increases the turbine's power production and optimal performance range.
US08662852B2
An arrangement and a method for mounting articulated turbine buckets in axial entry slots of rotor wheels. A curvature on a vertical plane may be incorporated on an axial male dovetail projection of the bucket root and the associated axial female dovetail slot of the rotor wheel. The curvature facilitates loading of buckets otherwise precluded by interferences, such as interlocking tip shrouds on adjacent buckets. Such loading may be provided by locating the shroud tip shroud in proximity to an adjacent tip shroud and pivoting the root end of the bucket around the location of the tip shroud such that the arc formed by the bucket allows the curvature of the axial male dovetail projection to swing into the axial female dovetail slot of the rotor wheel.
US08662845B2
A rotor disk assembly for a gas turbine engine includes a rotor disk with a circumferentially intermittent slot structure that extends radially outward relative to an axis of rotation. A heat shield has a multiple of radial tabs engageable with the circumferentially intermittent slot structure to provide axial retention of the cover plate to the rotor disk.
US08662841B2
A vacuum pump comprises a housing, a drive shaft supported by a beating arrangement for rotation relative to the housing about an axis, and a pumping mechanism comprising a stator component mounted on the housing and a disk-shaped rotor component mounted on the drive shaft axially proximate the stator component. The bearing arrangement comprises a bearing supported in both radial and axial directions by a resilient support, comprising inner and outer annular portions connected by a plurality of flexible members, so that there is a fixed relation between the inner race of the bearing and the outer portion of the resilient support to determine the axial clearance between the rotor and stator components of the pumping mechanism.
US08662840B2
A fan shroud for a cooling fan assembly with a fan that is rotatable about an axis of rotation defines a downstream direction along the axis of rotation. The shroud includes a barrel for containing the fan. The barrel is concentric with the axis of rotation and further includes a base portion. A plenum includes a plenum body extending radially from the base portion. The plenum body defines at least one edge of length L1. A skirt extends proximate the at least one edge of length L1 and substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. An interface joins the at least one edge of length L1 and the skirt and has a length L1. The interface comprises an underside having a transition surface of a length less than length L1.
US08662834B2
A method for reducing tip rub loads in a rotor blade is described having the steps of selecting a location of contact between the rotor blade and a static structure; selecting a location on the blade for incorporating a tip-cutter; selecting a cutter-profile for the tip-cutter; and incorporating the tip-cutter on the selected location on the blade such that tip-cutter is capable of removing a portion of the static structure during a tip rub such that tip rub loads are facilitated to be reduced.
US08662832B2
A fan includes at least one fan frame, at least one impeller and at least one active flow-control device. The fan frame includes at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The impeller is disposed in the fan frame. The active flow-control device is disposed on the fan frame for adjusting the size of the air inlet or the size of the air outlet according to demands.
US08662829B2
The present disclosure relates generally to a sump pump guard adaptor, system, and method of adapting thereof, and more particularly to an inlet pre-screen cover also acting as a platform for pit positioning of a pump, a platform for adapting multiple pumps made to adapt over the inlet of sump pumps of different size to be configured into sump pits also of varied size. The adaptor can be adapted using a base connected to a top portion or simply a top portion also called the adaptor itself. The design also includes a plurality of flow openings that allow for easy cutting or bending of different portions of the adaptor for example on the inner and outer radii of the adaptor, a multi-segment design for better stacking and storage in a compact configuration, a plurality of pipe openings for use in a staked sump pumps configuration, an access doors to help lower the sump pump into the adaptor, and an adaptor with a secondary pump support built in the main body or as an external piece adaptable to the main body.
US08662811B2
Manufacturing cost or energy consumption of a substrate processing apparatus can be reduced. The substrate processing apparatus includes a substrate loading/unloading unit (a substrate transit chamber 12) that transfers a substrate 2 accommodated in a carrier 3; a substrate transfer chamber 14 (25) communicating with the substrate loading/unloading unit via a substrate loading/unloading port 37 (39); a plurality of substrate processing chambers 15 to 24 (26 to 35) arranged along the substrate transfer chamber 14 (25); a substrate transfer device 36 (38) provided in the substrate transfer chamber 14 (25) and configured to transfer the substrate 2 between the substrate loading/unloading unit and the substrate processing chambers 15 to 24 (26 to 35); and a clean air flowing unit 41 (42) that allows clean air to flow along the substrate transfer chamber 14 (25).
US08662807B2
In case when an external force in a direction of pulling out from a female member acts on a male member in a fully fastened state, the male member moves in an axial direction, and a position where claw parts of engaging leg pieces engage moves from mounting parts and to contact parts. An engaging slot is formed on the contact part, and the engaging slot therefore engages with the claw part of the engaging leg piece. Movement in the direction of rotation of the male member is thereby restricted, and the male member is moved in state along the axial direction, so that the claw parts of the engaging leg pieces do not engage with engaging holes, and a state in which a vehicle body panel and a trim board are sandwiched by a flange part and the engaging leg pieces can be maintained.
US08662805B2
One or more embodiments of the present invention relate to a torque-limited attachment device, having a first head piece with at least one shaped element for the purpose of establishing a positive-fit connection to an attachment tool, and having a second head piece which has at least one threading, wherein both head pieces are connected to each other, forming at least one predetermined breaking point which breaks at a limit torque between the two head pieces such that a first breakaway surface, the same being functionally assigned to the first head piece, and a second breakaway surface, the same being functionally assigned to the second head piece, are created, and wherein at least the second head piece has a base material inside, the same having a corrosion-resistant surface coating.
US08662798B2
A tool for the turn/turn broaching or external milling of a workpiece is disclosed. The tool comprises a disk-shaped broaching wheel or at least one segment of such a broaching wheel. In each case, at least one cutting-tip holding fixture in each case for receiving a cutting tip is provided on the end faces of the broaching wheel or segment laterally adjoining a circumferential surface. On at least one of the two end faces, a cutting-tip holding fixture is formed in a cartridge, which is axially adjustable with respect to the broaching wheel or segment by an axial clamping wedge. The cartridge is designed in such a way that it at least partially covers the axial clamping wedge in a direction towards the circumferential surface.
US08662795B2
A head includes an outer cylindrical body with at least one upper inlet for fluids, at least one outlet side nozzle and at least one helical duct having a helical central line. The duct connects the upper inlet to the nozzle and imparts the fluid flowing through it a helical motion about the longitudinal axis of the outer body towards the nozzle. The helical duct is progressively tapered towards the nozzle and includes a terminal length of the duct which is radiused to the nozzle in a tapered manner, both when viewed in cross-sectional planes parallel to the longitudinal axis and tangent to the helical central line, as well as when viewed in cross-sectional planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
US08662789B2
A paver includes an enclosed furnace for melting an inorganic paving material and a carriage for carrying the furnace. The furnace includes a heating chamber for receiving the paving material, a heater for heating the heating chamber to a temperature greater than 1,600° C. to melt the paving material, and an outlet for discharging melted paving material to form a paved road surface.
US08662786B2
A vehicle destabilizing device that provides for the selective, remotely-deployed deflection and/or overturning of a targeted vehicle regardless of wheel or undercarriage configuration. The device is comprised of a combination of a remote arm/safe mechanism, a remote deployment switch, one or more lifting devices, a housing, and one or more structural members contiguously engaging the vehicle. The housing can be at least partially submerged in a road surface or protrude from the road surface so as to be driven over until deployed. A sensor can provide independent deployment once the device is armed.
US08662783B2
Ball joints, systems in which they are used, and suspension systems in which the ball joint systems are employed. The ball joints, systems and suspension mechanisms are especially useful for racing vehicles in which premium performance is desired. As an additional feature, the products of this invention are especially appreciated because of the ability to quickly and easily replace or change them.
US08662778B2
A floor finish application tool and method for applying floor finishes to a floor. Some embodiments are provided with disposable or quickly replaceable features, such as feed lines or reservoirs to eliminate the need for time consuming clean-up operations. Some embodiments are provided with a two portion hinged head having a spreading or distributing portion and a leveling portion to provide substantially uniform floor finish thickness across a floor. Some embodiments also feature an applicator pad composed of at least two different types of material. The first material is a floor finish distributing material that serves a function of substantially uniformly spreading bulk floor finish across a floor. The second material is a floor finish finishing material that is suitable for leveling the already spread floor finish.
US08662777B2
A packaging item for a product includes a receptacle with a wide opening at which is mounted a plate carrying at least two wiping members. The plate is movably mounted on the receptacle so that each wiping member can occupy different positions in the opening of the receptacle. The positions allow product to be removed with an applicator from the different zones of the receptacle.
US08662770B2
Image recording apparatus including manual medium insertion tray manually loaded with recording medium, the tray being connected to rear end portion of housing such that the tray is pivotable in vertical direction about horizontal axis of first hinge portion located below first hinge portion provided for image reading device, between its operative position in which the second recording medium is fed to feeding path leading to image recording device, and its retracted position, the tray placed in the operative position having upwardly inclined posture extending outwardly from the rear end portion of the housing, while the tray placed in the retracted position having posture extending generally downwards into accommodating space formed within the housing and on rear side of U-turn sheet transfer path connecting the sheet supply cassette and the feeding path, the tray being pivotable between the operative and retracted positions through rear opening formed in the housing.
US08662766B2
A light path adjustment apparatus includes a support plate that has a first through hole through which light passes and optical units that move between an open location where the first through hole is opened by the optical units moving toward an outside of the first through hole and a closing location where the first through hole is divided into a plurality of regions by the plurality of optical units moving toward the first through hole. The optical units block at least a part of the light in the closing location.
US08662761B2
A laser optical system using optical fiber transmission, includes a first optical fiber for transmitting laser light emitted from a laser oscillator, a collimator lens for collimating laser light emitted from the first optical fiber, a spherical array lens including a plurality of cells for converging laser light emitted from the collimator lens into a plurality of spots, a plurality of second optical fibers each having a smaller core diameter than the first optical fiber and configured to admit the laser light converged into the corresponding spot by the spherical array lens, the second optical fibers having output ends that have mutually parallel axial lines and are arranged linearly in a single row, and a linearization optical unit for shaping laser light emitted from the second optical fibers into laser light having a linear cross section at an illuminated surface.
US08662753B2
A slide device for an electronic device includes a substrate including a substrate including a pair of side edges; an intermediate plate including a pair of sandwiching portions slidably sandwiching the pair of side edges in the front and back direction, respectively, and a pair of outer edges at outer sides of the side edges in the width direction, respectively; a slide plate including a pair of outer sandwiching portions slidably sandwiching the pair of outer edges in the front and back direction, respectively; an intermediate housing position defining portion that protrudes an outer side in the width direction from the front end portion of the outer edge for defining an intermediate housing position of the slide plate with respect to the intermediate plate; an intermediate using position defining portion that protrudes the outer side in the width direction from the back end portion of the outer edge for defining an intermediate using position of the slide plate with respect to the intermediate plate; a housing position defining portion that protrudes in an upper direction of an upper and lower direction at a front portion of the substrate for defining a housing position of the intermediate plate with respect to the substrate; and a using position defining portion that protrudes in the upper direction at a back portion of the substrate for defining a using position of the intermediate plate with respect to the substrate.
US08662752B2
A motion guide device has a moving block mounting surface 501 of an end plate 5 formed in a planar shape and a thinned-down portion 52 formed in an opposing moving block mounting surface 502. Moreover, in this motion guide device, a lubrication path 30 includes: a first lubrication path 30a formed extending in a horizontal direction from a surface of side surfaces parallel to a longer direction of a track rail 1 in the end plate 5 to a central portion of the end plate 5; a second lubrication path 30b formed in the central portion of the end plate 5; and a third lubrication path 30c connected to the second lubrication path and formed in a groove shape in the moving block mounting surface 501 of the end plate 5, and, moreover, the first lubrication path 30a is formed in a hollow shape continuous to inside a built-up portion 52a appended to the thinned-down portion 52 of the end plate 5. Having such a configuration enables this motion guide device to achieve an average dispersal of lubricant to each of rolling element circulation paths regardless of mounting position of a greasing nipple with respect to the end plate, type of lubricant, and so on.
US08662750B2
A medical examination device for CT imaging and for nuclear medical imaging is provided. The medical examination device has an essentially ring-shaped gantry with a CT imaging arrangement and a nuclear medical imaging arrangement. The gantry has an especially laterally arranged, fold-out or removable segment for creating an access opening to the interior of the gantry.
US08662748B2
An X-ray device including a C-arm movably guided on a mount is provided. A radiation source and a radiation detector are arranged on the C-arm. The radiation source and the radiation detector are connected to the C-arm by cables fed in from outside, the cables being arranged on a cable clamp that may be moved at least in segments along the C-arm.
US08662746B2
A gas turbine component (49) may be instrumented to provide a plurality of signals indicative of thermal measurements in a high temperature combustion environment of the gas turbine. A thermocouple arrangement may include a first thermocouple leg (50) disposed within a thickness of the component. At least two or more thermocouple legs (52, 53, 54) is each electrically connected to the first leg to form individual thermocouple junctions (56, 57, 58, 59) along the first leg for conversion of respective thermal gradients to respective electrical signals, such as electromotive force (emf) based voltages. The thermocouple arrangement may be used in combination with a thermographic system (70) to calculate heat flux over a region of the turbine component.
US08662744B2
A method of calibrating a position sensor in an automotive transmission having a transmission housing having mounted therein a casing (10) for the position sensor which includes a pressure member (14) movably supported in the casing (10), and an electrical displacement sensor (38) actuated by the pressure member (14) for measuring the position of the pressure member (14) relative to the casing (10), such that, after the casing (10) of the position sensor has been mounted in the transmission housing, the displacement sensor (38) is used for performing at least one calibration measurement for at least one gear position, and, for each gear position to be detected, a tolerance range for the corresponding measurement value of the displacement sensor is defined on the basis of the result of the calibration measurement.
US08662732B2
The present invention is directed generally to lighting devices, and more particularly to white light LED-based lighting devices configured such that key subassemblies may be replaced, thereby enabling the modification, upgrade and/or repair of said device.
US08662725B2
Into a case member, either of a unidirectional adjusting device for adjusting an irradiating direction of light only in a vertical direction by tilting a lamp unit in the vertical direction or a bidirectional adjusting device for adjusting the irradiating direction of light in two directions of the vertical direction and a horizontal direction by tilting the lamp unit in the vertical direction and rotating the lamp unit in the horizontal direction can be installed.
US08662721B2
An aircraft external lighting system and method is applicable to aircraft position, navigation and strobe lights. The lighting system includes a light source, a cylindrical lens adjacent the light source, and a lenticular lens between the light source and the cylindrical lens.
US08662719B2
An operating light (1) has a housing (2), which has a light exit opening (4); a holding system, which is coupled with housing (2) and is designed to movably hold the operating light; at least one light source (3) as well as at least one corresponding optical system to direct light emitted by the at least one light source (3) in the direction of light exit opening (4). A grip assembly unit (14) is provided approximately in the middle of light exit opening (4). The grip assembly unit (14) has a handle (5) to pivot the operating light (1) into a desired position. At least one rotating ring (11) is located between the handle (5) and the housing (2) and is rotatable in relation to the handle (5) and is designed to set various functions of operating light (1). As an alternative or in addition, a touch-sensitive sensor element (15), which is designed to set various functions of operating light (1), is located between the handle (5) and the housing (2).
US08662708B2
A LED tube having double heat sinks is disclosed. One of the embodiment shows a first plurality of light unit is fixed onto the top heat sink, and a second plurality of light unit is fixed onto the bottom heat sink, while with the light chips configured in between the two heat sinks for light emission to the ambient.
US08662699B2
A lantern having a plurality of removable area lights. Each area light includes a separate power source capable of powering the area light. Each area light is separately selectively illuminable by activating a switch on the area light. The lantern includes a docking station having a docking station power source capable of simultaneously powering all area lights attached to the docking station simultaneously or any subset of the area lights attached to the docking station.
US08662698B2
According to embodiments of the present invention, a flameless candle circuit includes an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”) having a first power terminal, a second power terminal, and an output. The circuit also includes a light-emitting diode (“LED”) and a single-pole switch. The LED is configured to receive a signal from the output of the ASIC. The single-pole switch is configured to selectively provide the battery voltage to at least one of the first power terminal and the second power terminal. Additionally, the single-pole switch is configured to remove the battery voltage from both of the first power terminal and the second power terminal to turn the ASIC off. The ASIC is configured to drive the LED in a first mode when the battery voltage is provided to the first power terminal. The ASIC is also configured to drive the LED in a second mode when the battery voltage is provided to the second power terminal.
US08662684B2
Described is a device comprising a retro-reflective marker sphere comprising: a core ball comprising: a generally spherical body portion, a mounting base extending from one end of the body portion of the core ball, and a mounting recess having a recess opening in the mounting base and extending into the body portion of the core ball, and a retro-reflective covering on the core ball, the retro-reflective covering comprising an opening through which the mounting base of the core ball extends, wherein a flat lower surface of the mounting base is spaced proximally from a lower edge of the opening of the retro-reflective covering, and wherein the mounting recess includes an interior screw thread for engaging an exterior screw thread of a mounting post when the retro-reflective marker sphere is mounted on the mounting post.
US08662671B1
The present invention features an optical apparatus for the transmission of a virtual image to facilitate an individual's copy or reproduction thereof onto a working surface. The optical apparatus provides an image transfer that is more realistic than apparatuses of the prior art because of the illusion that the image is in actual contact with the working surface, when in reality the image impinges only a transparent medium. In addition, the invention provides a more effective image transfer than conventional devices by not including an opaque transfer of the artist's hand and/or art utensil, but rather by rendering the illusion that the artist's hand and/or art utensil is transparent. The optical apparatus consists of a supporting frame upon which is mounted a light source, an upper transparent support plate, a lower plate consisting of at least two layers, and a working surface on which is disposed canvas or paper for receiving the artist's final, copied image or work.
US08662667B2
A method determines the position and/or radius of the limbus and/or the position and/or radius of the pupil of a patient eye. In the method, an image of the patient eye is obtained and a plurality of different ring-shaped comparison objects having respective radii and respective centers are provided. The image is correlated with the plurality of comparison objects to yield a local best match between the image and the comparison objects when there is a coincidence of one of the ring-shaped comparison objects and a ring-shaped jump in brightness in the image having the same radius and the same center. The comparison objects having a local best match with the image are determined. Thereafter, the position of the center of the comparison object having a local best match with the image is selected as the position of the center of the limbus and/or the position of the center of the pupil.
US08662665B2
Aspects of the present invention provide multifocal lenses having one or more multifocal inserts comprising one or more diffractive regions. A diffractive region of a multifocal insert of the present invention can provide a constant optical power or can provide a progression of optical power, or any combination thereof. A multifocal insert of the present invention can be fabricated from any type of material and can be inserted into any type of bulk lens material. A diffractive region of a multifocal insert of the present invention can be positioned to be in optical communication with one or more optical regions of a host lens to provide a combined desired optical power in one or more vision zones. Index matching layers of the present invention can be used to reduce reflection losses at interfaces of the host lens and multifocal insert.
US08662662B2
A contact lens for treating binocular diplopia, the contact lens comprising: a central region adapted to degrade light passing therethrough, so as to create a central scotoma in a patient's eye in which the contact lens is placed in use; and a peripheral region adapted to degrade light passing therethrough to a lesser extent than in the central region, or not at all; such that, in use, an image in the field of view of the said eye is degraded only in the center or to a greater extent in the center than in the periphery. Also provided is a method of manufacturing such a lens, and a method of treating binocular diplopia comprising applying such a lens to a patient's eye.
US08662657B2
A method for performing duplex printing with improved throughput has been developed. The method includes forming an image of a back side of a first duplex page and an image of a front side of a second duplex page on an image receiving member. Two recording media sheets are serially passed through a nip to transfer the image of the first duplex page back side to a bare side of a recording media sheet that also bears the image of the front side of the first duplex page on an obverse side and to transfer the image of the second duplex page to a bare side of a recording media sheet that has not been previously printed.
US08662656B2
In one embodiment, an inkjet printer includes: a first series of print bars arranged along an arc on a first side of an arched printing unit and a second series of print bars arranged along an arc on a second side of the arched printing unit and a dryer positioned within a footprint of the arched printing unit. A plurality of web guides are arranged to guide the web along a duplex printing path past the first print bars for printing on a first side of the web, then through the dryer for drying the first side of the web, then past the second print bars for printing on a second side of the web, and then through the dryer for drying the second side of the web.
US08662652B2
An ink composition is provided that includes (Component A) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of bis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phenylphosphine oxide and 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyldiphenylphosphine oxide, (Component B) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 2-methyl-1-(4-methylthiophenyl)-2-morpholinopropan-1-one, 2-(dimethylamino)-2-[(4-methylphenyl)methyl]-1-[4-(4-morpholinyl)phenyl]-1-butanone, and 2-benzyl-2-dimethylamino-1-(4-morpholinophenyl)-1-butanone, (Component C) a thioxanthone compound, (Component D) a polymerization inhibitor, and (Component E) a polymerizable compound, Component C having a content of 0.01 to 5 wt % relative to the total weight of the ink composition, Component D having a content of 0.01 to 5 wt % relative to the total weight of the ink composition, the sum of the content of Component A and the content of Component B being 6.0 to 9.5 wt % relative to the total weight of the ink composition, and the ratio by weight ((A)/(B)) of the content (A) of Component A and the content (B) of Component B being 0.8 to 2.0.
US08662646B2
The present invention provides a droplet generator (10) of the velocity modulation type, the generator (10) being configured so that substantially all the modulation energy generated by piezo-electric crystals (60) is transformed into vibration of the nozzle (34). The generator preferably also includes an internal closure mechanism (70) which blocks off the nozzle (34) when the generator is not in operation, but which is de-coupled from the modulation process when the generator is operating.
US08662640B2
A flexible printed wiring member includes a flexible insulating base layer; a patterned copper layer disposed on the insulating base layer, the patterned copper layer including: a first portion including unplated copper leads; and a second portion including a plated metal layer disposed on the patterned copper layer; a first insulating cover layer disposed over the unplated copper leads in the first portion, the first insulating cover layer terminating at a first edge located proximate a boundary between the first portion and the second portion of the patterned copper layer; and a second insulating cover layer disposed over the first insulating cover layer, the second insulating cover layer terminating at a second edge located within the second portion of the patterned copper layer.
US08662636B2
An inkjet printhead includes: a first row of longitudinally spaced apart first printhead segments, each first printhead segment having a plurality of nozzle rows configured for ejecting a plurality of different colored inks; and a second row of longitudinally spaced apart second printhead segments, the second row being parallel with the first row, each second printhead segment having a plurality of nozzle rows configured for ejecting a plurality of different colored inks The first and second printhead segments overlap in a media feed direction transverse to the first and second rows so as to provide seamless printing across a width of the printhead.
US08662630B2
A recording apparatus including: a liquid ejection head which has an ejection surface; a conveying mechanism having a support surface, and configured to convey a recording medium; a first capping mechanism having an annular-shaped lip member disposed to surround the ejection surface of the liquid ejection head, and configured to execute a first capping that causes the ejection surface to be covered with the support surface and the lip member; a second capping mechanism having a movable member which is positionable in an opposed position and a retracted position, and configured to execute a second capping that causes the ejection surface to be covered with at least the one movable member that is positioned in the opposed position; and a controller configured to control the first capping mechanism and the second capping mechanism, and to execute a selected one of the first capping and the second capping.
US08662627B2
A linehead that is producing an artifact in the content printed on a print media is identified by capturing an image of the content as the print media is moving to obtain pixel data and averaging the pixel data to produce blur in a direction the print media is moving. A determination is made as to whether the averaged pixel data is associated with content printed by a first linehead in a printing module. If the averaged pixel data is not associated with the first linehead, the averaged pixel data from an image captured by a preceding linehead is subtracted from the averaged pixel data in the image to produce averaged pixel data that is associated with a single linehead. Derivative data of the averaged pixel data is then determined. A determination is made as to whether one or more peaks are present in the derivative data.
US08662624B2
According to one embodiment, a foreign object detection device includes a signal generator, a transmitter, a receiver, a storage section, and a detection section. A signal generator configured to generate an electrical signal. A transmitter configured to convert the electrical signal from the signal generator and to generate a pressure wave in a liquid. A receiver configured to receive a reflection wave from the liquid and to convert it to an electrical signal. A storage section configured to store information on a state of absence of a foreign object in the liquid. A detection section configured to detect at least one of presence or absence of the foreign object and size of the foreign object based on difference between the electrical signal converted from the reflection wave and an electrical signal based on the stored information.
US08662620B2
In one embodiment, a method of operating a permanent magnet direct current (PMDC) motor in a printer has been developed. The method includes identifying that a temperature of the PMDC motor exceeds an operating temperature of the motor without the use of a direct temperature sensor. The PMDC motor operates at a reduced printing rate to prevent the motor from overheating.
US08662619B2
A liquid ejection apparatus, including: a conveyor mechanism; a recording head; a treatment-liquid application portion; a sealing mechanism for selectively taking a sealing state in which an ejection space is sealed or an unsealing state in which the ejection space is not sealed; a humid-airy supply mechanism for performing a humidifying operation to produce and supply the humid air into the ejection space in the sealing state; a forcible discharge mechanism for performing a forcible discharge operation for forcibly discharging recording liquid from the head; and a maintenance control section for, when a time elapsed from an occurrence of a jam to a clearance of the jam is less than a first time, performing the forcible discharge operation, and for, when the time is equal to or greater than the first time, performing the humidifying operation in the sealing state and then performing the forcible discharge operation.
US08662609B2
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body, a recording head, head tanks, main tanks, liquid feed pumps, a first driving source, a drive control unit, and a drive switching assembly. The drive switching assembly includes a second driving source, a cam, a slider member, a switching gear, switching position detected portions, and a detector. The detected portions are disposed at the cam so as to correspond to switching positions of the liquid feed pumps. One of the detected portions has a greater width in a rotation direction of the cam than any other detected portion. When a time from when the detector detects one of the detected portions to when the detector detects another one of the detected portions is shorter than a threshold value, the drive control unit determines, as a home position, a position of the cam on detection of the another one with the detector.
US08662599B2
A wheel hub includes a wheel rim and a support. The wheel rim has an inner rim surface, an outer rim surface and a connection concave. The wheel rim is composed of a metallic layer and a carbon fiber layer. The outer rim surface has an outer wall to be the metallic layer. The wheel hub is composed of the metallic layer and the carbon fiber layer. Compared to the conventional wheel hub made of a single metallic material or a carbon fiber material, the wheel hub made of metal and carbon fiber of the present invention is light in weight, endurable, and cost-effective. The outer wall of the outer rim surface of the conventional wheel hub is easily to be damaged by an external force when in use, which result in a break of the carbon fiber to lose the strength of the carbon fiber. By contrast, the present invention has the metallic layer to protect the outer wall of the outer rim surface of the wheel rim, so that the carbon fiber layer of the wheel rim won't be hit by an external force so as to enhance the quality of the wheel hub.
US08662589B2
A vehicle seat including: a tilting lever provided to an outer part of a seat main body, and by operating the tilting lever, a seat back can be tilted to a position of an upper surface of a seat cushion, wherein the tilting lever is arranged within an inwardly recessed space that is formed to a shield covering an outer part of the seat cushion, and an input movement of an operation to the tilting lever is completed within the recessed space.
US08662587B2
A seat assembly for an automotive vehicle is provided with a seat cushion and a seat back pivotally connected to the seat cushion for pivotal movement between an upright seating position and a forwardly folded dump position. A seat track assembly is fixedly secured to the seat cushion for providing a selective fore and aft sliding adjustment of the seat assembly along a first linear path between a full forward position and a full rearward position. A tip slide mechanism is operatively coupled to the seat track assembly and adapted for mounting the seat assembly to a vehicle floor. The tip slide mechanism provides fore and aft movement of the seat assembly along a second curved path transverse to the first linear path between a seating position and an easy entry position to provide access behind the seat assembly.
US08662574B2
A body structure is provided for a motor vehicle that includes, two side sills running in the vehicle longitudinal direction, between which a floor group is situated, and two rear frame profiles rigidly connected to the floor group, which extend from the floor group to the rear. The body structure has a structure crossbeam running in the vehicle transverse direction, which rigidly connects each of the two side sills and also the two rear frame profiles directly to one another.
US08662573B2
A lateral impact energy transfer rail for an automotive vehicle and a body structure incorporating the same. The transfer rail includes a cross member having a gusset mounted at each end. The gussets opposing end of each gusset is attached to a roof side rail of the vehicle. The gussets are secured to the cross member by a fastener and an additional connection. The additional connection is laterally offset from the fastener.
US08662570B2
A radiator grille for a motor vehicle includes a basic support with a region for a marquee badge having an external contour that is, at least in regions, curved or oblique. A number of fins are held on the basic support, the number of fins are movable out of a closed position closing respective passage openings in the radiator grille into an open position uncovering the passage openings. In this case, at least one of the fins is displaceable in the direction of its longitudinal extent by bringing it from the closed position into the open position.
US08662559B2
A removable cargo liner for use in a vehicle cargo area. The removable cargo liner comprises an upper cargo liner layer being positionable in the cargo area of a vehicle and a lower layer being made of a dual purpose, nonwoven, needle punch fiber having a loop feature. The lower layer is fixedly coupled to the upper cargo liner layer. The lower layer provides a generally non-abrasive contact interface with the vehicle cargo area. An intermediate layer made of a compliant material is coupled between the upper cargo liner layer and the lower layer such that the coupling of the lower layer to the upper cargo liner layer is via the intermediate layer. A single-sided member is connectable to the cargo area defining a hook feature, such that the hook feature of the single-sided member is releasably coupled to the loop feature of the lower layer.
US08662557B2
A train axle assembly includes a train axle, a ring assembly coaxially mounted on the train axle and a structure operatively engaged by the ring assembly and mounted on the train axle. The ring assembly has an outer diameter and a main section adjacent the outer diameter. The ring assembly includes a projection extending axially from the main section which is located at a diameter less than the outer diameter of the ring assembly. The projection has a portion of a diameter contacting the train axle so that the ring assembly is affixed to the train axle to provide resistance to relative rotation and axial movement between the ring assembly and the train axial.
US08662543B2
A plug connector for media lines that includes a plug part having a plug shaft, which can be inserted into a receiving part and is releasably locked therein. The plug part has at least two spring elastic latching arms that extend in the insertion direction. The latching arms have radially inwardly projecting catch cams at their free ends for engaging behind a latching step of the receiving part. The latching arms can be spread radially by a release element to release the plug part. The latching arms are radially spread by displacing the release element. The release element has axially extending release arms, which extend to the area of the catch cams, located radially between the latching arms and the plug shaft. The actuating sections are arranged in such a way for spreading the latching arms to release the catch cams.
US08662541B2
A fitting connectable to an end portion of a pipe generally includes an insert member configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe, a retention member coupled to the insert member and configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe, and a sealing member carried by the insert member adjacent the retention member. The retention member and seal engage the end portion of the pipe to help frictionally secure and seal the end portion of the pipe on the insert member when the insert member is received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe.
US08662530B2
A vehicle seat assembly according to the present disclosure includes an air bag module having a front and a side, and the air bag module includes an inflatable air bag and a rigid cover at least partially covering the air bag. The rigid cover may include a protection portion that extends at least partially along the side of the air bag module. The protection portion has an end spaced away from the front of the air bag module. The seat assembly further includes a seat pad disposed outside of the air bag module, and a trim cover positioned over the seat pad. In at least one embodiment, upon inflation of the air bag, the end of the protection portion is configured to move forwardly such that the protection portion extends between the seat pad and the air bag.
US08662526B2
The decorative panel provided at the instrument panel includes the protruding portion that is engaged with the engagement hole of the airbag door, in a state in which the distal end portion protrudes from the rear surface of the airbag door, and the door decorative portion that is formed integrally with the protruding portion and attached to the front surface of the airbag door by engaging the protruding portion with the engagement hole. The protective plate that includes the protective portion covering the distal end portion of the protruding portion from the airbag side is provided at the rear surface of the airbag door. When the airbag is inflated and deployed, the airbag is prevented from interfering with the distal end portion of the protruding portion.
US08662518B2
A vehicle, such as a motorcycle, can facilitate maintenance of an air cleaner without complicating a peripheral structure of a fuel tank. The vehicle can include a body frame, a rear arm attached to the body frame to support a rear wheel, a rear cushioning member provided between the body frame and the rear arm, and an engine fixed to the body frame. The vehicle can further include a fuel tank supported rotatably at a supporter arranged closer to a rear side of the vehicle than a substantially central position of an axis of the rear cushioning member.
US08662516B1
A caster mounting assembly for mounting a caster wheel on a wheelchair frame includes a mounting body defining a barrel portion to be fixed relative to the wheelchair frame and a rotatable body within the barrel portion that supports the caster wheel thereon for rotation relative to the rotatable body about an upright caster axis. The caster axis is arranged for rotation together with the rotatable body relative to the mounting body. A locking member is slidable within a channel in the mounting body and includes teeth in meshing engagement with corresponding teeth on the rotatable body. One or more positioning screws permit the locking member to be controllably displaced between longitudinally different locking positions within the channel corresponding to different angular orientations of the caster wheel axis.
US08662505B2
A snowboard binding and hold-down device that may flex or move with the snowboard when ridden to minimize any impact on flex characteristics. The snowboard binding may be compatible with a variety of snowboard binding mount arrangements.
US08662494B2
A recording medium feeding device includes a lower stage side tray which stores a recording medium, an upper stage side tray which is provided above the lower stage side tray and stores the recording medium, a first separation inclined surface which is opposite to a tip of the recording medium which is stored in the lower stage side tray and the upper stage side tray and extends along a feed path of the recording medium, and a second separation inclined surface in which a trailing end in the feed path is positioned below a bottom surface of the upper stage side tray, and thus, which is opposite to the tip of the recording medium which is stored in the lower stage side tray and is not opposite to the tip of the recording medium which is stored in the upper stage side tray.
US08662492B2
A multi-function peripheral having an automatic document feeding device (ADF) suited for being configured in a body of an apparatus is provided. The apparatus has a first and second power sources to drive the ADF to transmit a paper in or out of the body. The ADF includes a limiting structure, a swinging member and a blocking member. The first and second power sources drive the limiting structure and the swinging member to swing respectively. The blocking member has a first end connected to the swinging member and a second end extending toward the limiting structure. When the limiting structure is at a second position and the swinging member swings toward a third position, the second end is trapped into the limiting space. When the limiting structure moves toward a first position and the swinging member swings toward the third position, the second end escapes from the limiting space.
US08662491B2
A multi-function peripheral having an automatic document feeding device (ADF) suited for being configured in a body of an apparatus is provided. The apparatus has a first and second power sources to drive the ADF to transmit a paper in or out of the body. The ADF includes a limiting structure, a swinging member and a blocking member. The first and second power sources drive the limiting structure and the swinging member to swing respectively. The blocking member has a first end connected to the swinging member and a second end extending toward the limiting structure. When the limiting structure is at a second position and the swinging member swings toward a third position, the second end is trapped into the limiting space. When the limiting structure moves toward a first position and the swinging member swings toward the third position, the second end escapes from the limiting space.
US08662490B2
A bulk document feeder module is adapted for connection to a document acceptor and is operable, when attached to the document acceptor, to feed one document at a time, from a bundle of documents, to the document acceptor. The bulk document feeder module can include a document transport mechanism, a portion of which includes a removable cartridge, to facilitate removal of a jammed object from the feeder module. The document acceptor can form part of a bill or other document validator.
US08662484B2
This compound linear flexure bearing incorporates a simple but unique flexure arrangement which inherently allows stable long travel operation. The flexure arrangement passively constrains all degrees of freedom except translation along the bearing axis while also compensating for flexure foreshortening. This design permits large displacement, low operating stress, low operating force, and high stiffness in the five noncompliant degrees of freedom. The linear flexure bearing described herein has applications in precision mechanics, particularly opto-mechanics. Specific applications include but are not limited to wafer and reticle positioning stages used in microlithography systems, optic translation and scanning mechanisms used in tactical and spaceborne systems, as well as flip-in mechanisms used in multiple field of view optical systems.
US08662475B2
A ball valve gasket structure includes a housing base having an accommodating area and a position limit area; a leakproof washer installed in the position limit area; a ring-shaped slide unit having a ring-shaped steel plate and a ring-shaped graphite plate installed in the accommodating area, and both top and bottom sides are ring-shaped steel plates of the slide unit, and the ring-shaped steel plate at the bottom side abuts the bottom of the accommodating area, and the other ring-shaped slide unit has an arc surface portion disposed at the internal periphery; and a cover coupled to the housing base for sealing the slide unit. The ball valve gasket structure can be used together with a ball valve to achieve the slide assisting effect, improving service life, and facilitating installation and disassembly.
US08662474B2
Embodiments of a combination bearing are provided, as are embodiments of a valve assembly including a combination bearing. In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a flowbody having a flow passage therethrough, a drive shaft rotatably mounted within the flowbody, a valve element mounted to the drive shaft and positioned within the flow passage, and a combination bearing coupled between the flowbody and the drive shaft. The combination bearing comprises an integral radial load/thrust ring coupled to the drive shaft, and a thrust washer substantially adjacent the integral radial load/thrust ring, as taken along the longitudinal axis of the combination bearing. An outer radial ring circumscribes the integral thrust/radial load ring. A first plurality of rolling elements is captured between the thrust washer and the integral radial load/thrust ring, and a second plurality of rolling elements is captured between the outer radial ring and the integral radial load/thrust ring.
US08662470B2
A dental syringe may include a replaceable valve cartridge containing one or more valves which may use a seating surface and an opposing seating surface with a relative angle formed between the two surfaces. The relative angle allows for regulation of the flow of fluid. The replaceable valve cartridge may also include a system to remove a residual liquid from a tip of a dental syringe. Additionally, the replaceable valve cartridge may include a seal that prevents bleed-over of fluids. Further, the dental syringe may comprise a tip retention insert which may use either a pair of plates or a plurality of ball bearings to retain the dental syringe tips. An alternate embodiment of a valve may comprise features intended to reduce the force necessary to actuate the valve. A metering screw and/or flow-control groove with increasing depth may control of flow through the valve.
US08662469B2
A power-assisted mechanism having a simple structure which can perform a power-assisted operation can be achieved in a power-assisted on/off valve including a valve stem which opens and closes a flow passage, an operational member which is positioned on an axis of the valve stem and is relatively movable with respect to the valve stem, and a power-assisted mechanism which reduces the speed and power-assists the movement of the operational member, and transfers the movement of the operational member to the stem valve.The power-assisted mechanism is provided with a transmission rod which is positioned on an axis of the operational member, the transmission rod provided with a reduced-diameter portion that reduces the diameter thereof in a direction toward the valve stem; a pressing member which is interconnected with the valve stem; a pair of motion-transmission surfaces that are formed so as to face the pressing member and a housing that movably supports the pressing member, wherein a space between the pair of motion-transmission surfaces increasingly narrows toward the outer periphery thereof; and a plurality of radial-direction movable bodies that are interposed between the pair of motion-transmission surfaces and the reduced-diameter portion of the transmission rod and are in contact therewith.
US08662467B2
A formliner and master mold are disclosed. The master mold corresponds with the formliner, which includes a plurality of courses, each course having a plurality of pockets, each pocket sized and configured to receive a decorative brick, and a plurality of ridges arranged and disposed to separate the pockets. In the embodiment, the ridge lattice has a first ridge having a dimension that differs from a same dimension of a second ridge or a portion of the first ridge.
US08662466B2
A multi-functional mobile laptop desk includes a base, on which a support member is set; the end of the support member far from the base is provided with a joint, the top of the joint is provided with a first upper arm, and the lower part of the joint is provided with a first A lower arm and a first B lower arm paralleling with the first upper arm; the end of the first upper arm far from the joint is connected with the top of a tooth tank; the ends of the first A lower arm and the first B lower arm far from the joint are connected with the lower part of the tooth tank; the top of the another end of the tooth tank is provided with a second upper arm, and the lower part of the end is provided with a second A lower arm and a second B lower arm paralleling with the second upper arm; the another end of the second upper arm far from the tooth tank is connected with the top of a connecting seat; the another ends of the second A lower arm and the second B lower arm far from the tooth tank are connected with the lower part of the connecting seat; the front of the connecting seat far from the tooth tank is provided with a moveable computer seat.
US08662464B2
An adjustable, retractable hanging system. The hanger, housing a spring-loaded reel and a retractable cable, is attached to a ceiling or exposed ductwork by either opposing flanges or bonding material that is located on the hanger's flat exterior housing wall. A cup, lined with a flexible gasket and having a fin-like appendage on its surface, holds the hanger and is also attached to a pole. The cup and pole assembly attaches the hanger to a ceiling or exposed ductwork without the use of a ladder or any elevating device. After the hanger is attached, the cup's fin-like appendage is used to engages the clip on the cable, allowing the user to lower the clip to within reach. An adjustable cable-stop, which is also attached to the cable, allows the user to adjust the suspended height of the material to be hung.
US08662458B2
Provided are holders for compactly storing infusion management systems to surfaces. In an embodiment the holder apparatus has a head portion for receiving and infusion management system trunk portion and a foot for receiving an apex portion of the infusion management system. The holder apparatus may be mounted to a wall so that the infusion management system is compactly stored and then mounted against the wall, thereby dramatically decreasing the storage footprint of the systems when not in use, without sacrificing the ability to conveniently and rapidly deploy the system when needed. Also provided are infusion management systems configured for use with the holder apparatus and related methods of storing the system.
US08662456B2
There is provided an articulated cable protection and guide apparatus that can securely guide cables between a machine frame-side fixing end area and a machine movable-side moving end area without scattering abrasion powder of the articulated supporting members and the cables to the outside and that can be easily installed in the machine frame-side fixing end area and the machine movable-side moving end area. Connector units, fixed to the machine frame-side fixing end area and the machine movable-side moving end area, integrally retain articulated end portions of the articulated supporting member, cable end portions of the cables and slot end portions of the flexible belt member and seal the slot end portions of the flexible belt member.
US08662449B2
An apparatus having a composite air-based structure with a first carbon nanotube infused material and a second carbon nanotube infused material. The first and second carbon nanotube infused materials each having a range of carbon nanotube loading selected to provide different functionalities.
US08662447B2
A flexible-usage travel suite that includes an enclosure having a floor, surrounding walls defining a predetermined area and an egress/ingress opening. A seat is positioned adjacent a first side of the enclosure and is moveable between a deployed seating configuration and a stowed storage configuration against the first side of the enclosure. A bed is positioned adjacent a second side of the enclosure and is moveable between a deployed lie-flat configuration when the seat is in its stowed storage configuration, and a stowed storage position when the seat is in its deployed seating configuration. A utility chair and utility table are positioned within the enclosure and are moveable among a stowed position and a use position.
US08662442B2
A system and method for adjusting a rotor blade upon detection of a harmful force exerted on an aircraft wing includes a sensor attached to the wing and a subsystem operably associated with the sensor. The method includes sensing the force exerted on the wing with the sensor and determining whether the sensed force is potentially harmful to the structural integrity of the wing. The method further includes counteracting the harmful force by adjusting the rotor blade movement.
US08662441B2
A system for launching an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) payload includes a launch tube, liquid rocket, and launch control assembly. The rocket is positioned in the launch tube and contains the UAV payload. A booster assembly may include a canister partially filled with liquid. A gas cylinder is filled with compressed gas. The liquid is pre-pressurized by the gas or mixed with the gas right before launch such that, upon launch, liquid and gaseous thrust stages launch the rocket to a threshold altitude. The UAV payload deploys after reaching the threshold altitude. Optional stability tubes may be connected to the launch tube, which may be buoyant for water-based operations. An optional tether may be connected to the liquid rocket for arresting its flight prior to reaching apogee. The UAV payload is not launched directly by the gas/liquid mix. A method of launching the UAV payload is also disclosed.
US08662422B2
A vehicle is disclosed which includes a chassis and a storage and dispensing apparatus. The storage and dispensing apparatus can be mounted directly to the chassis or disposed within or on a body, which in turn is mounted to the chassis. The storage and dispensing apparatus has an opening therein to permit material to be transported therethrough. A conveyor assembly for selectively conveying materials from the opening of the storage and dispensing apparatus is also included. The conveyor assembly can include a dual auger arrangement. The vehicle includes a spreader chute that is operably arranged with the conveyor assembly to direct the materials to a spreader. A liquid storage system for storing liquid is provided. A liquid dispensing system is provided for selectively dispensing liquid from the liquid storage system. The liquid dispensing system includes an anti-icing system for selectively dispensing liquid from the vehicle and a pre-wetting system for selectively dispensing liquid onto material being transported by the endless conveyor out of the vehicle.
US08662418B1
A showerhead system for dispensing soap and water simultaneously having a reservoir with an inner cavity for holding a material, a first and second opening are each in the reservoir providing access to the inner cavity, a reservoir hose extending from the second opening into the inner cavity, a pump fluidly connected to the reservoir hose having a switch activating and deactivating the pump, a connector hose fluidly connected to the pump, and a showerhead having an inner cavity and a connector base for fluidly connecting to a main water line in.
US08662413B2
An apparatus for providing cooling to a user comprises a bag, an input hose, an output hose, one or more discharge extensions, and a pump. The bag is operative to store a liquid. The one or more discharge extensions are in fluidic communication with the output hose, and each of the one or more discharge extensions terminates in a respective one of one or more nozzles. Lastly, the pump is operative to draw the liquid from the bag via the input hose and to expel the liquid into the output hose so as to cause the liquid to flow to the one or more discharge extensions and to be expelled through the one or more nozzles in the form of a water mist.
US08662411B2
A fuel injection valve includes a nozzle needle interacting with a valve seat by longitudinal movements thereof, thus opening/closing an injection opening. The nozzle needle undergoes a locking force toward the valve seat pressure in a control space. A control valve adjusts pressure in the control space. The control valve has a control valve space connected to the control space, in which a control valve member is disposed longitudinally movably, and opens and closes a connection of the control valve space to a leakage oil space by longitudinal movement. The control valve member is surrounded by pressure in the control valve space and configured such that no or very little resulting hydraulic force acts upon the control valve member in the movement direction by the pressure in the control space, if the control valve member closes the connection of the control valve space to the leakage oil space.
US08662399B2
A cradle for a hand held, battery-powered coded information reader comprises a base part and a reader support part which can be oriented with respect to the base part in at least two positions, the cradle including a power supply input and a power supply/recharge electrical interface for coupling with an electrical interface of the reader when supported in the cradle. The power supply input and the electrical interface of the cradle are housed in the support part. The cradle permits recharging irrespectively of the reader orientation.
US08662397B2
A multicamera imaging-based bar code reader for imaging a target bar code on a target object features: a housing supporting a plurality of transparent windows and defining an interior region, a target object being presented to the plurality of windows for imaging a target bar code; an imaging system including a plurality of camera assemblies coupled to an image processing system, each camera assembly of the plurality of camera assemblies being positioned within the housing interior position. Each camera assembly includes a sensor array and an imaging lens assembly for focusing a field of view of the camera assembly onto the sensor array and wherein the sensor array is read out at a predetermined frame rate. The predetermined frame rate of at least one camera assembly is less than the predetermined frame rates of the other camera assemblies.
US08662396B2
A segmented 2D matrix symbol may be formed by dividing data into a plurality of segments, separately encoding the plurality of segments as corresponding arrays of cells, and arranging the arrays of cells in an abutting relationship. The segmented symbol may be reproduced, for example by receiving a bitmap corresponding to the formed symbol followed by printing; by copying a printed symbol; or by scanning a printed symbol and printing a copy. The reproduced symbol may be scanned, and data from only decoded segments, for example audio data, may be output.
US08662394B2
An electronic system comprising a printed circuit having first and second opposite surfaces, an electronic component attached to the second surface and a first device of protection against access attempts on the first surface side. The system comprises a second protection device at least partially covering, on the second surface side, the electronic component, and comprising at least one tab. The printed circuit comprises at least one through opening, the tab extending in the opening and being attached to the printed circuit. The tab comprises at least one conductive portion electrically contacting at least one first conductive track of the first surface.
US08662391B2
A receiving and dispensing unit and a self-checkout system of an embodiment includes a coin receiving and dispensing device which holds received coins in accordance with the denomination and dispenses the held coins, and a bill receiving and dispensing device which holds received bills in accordance with the denomination and dispenses the held bills. The bill receiving and dispensing device is arranged to overlap the coin receiving and dispensing device in the height direction of the coin receiving and dispensing device.
US08662383B2
An image forming apparatus includes a first paper feed discharge unit which feeds and discharges a recording medium; a second paper feed discharge unit which is formed with an opening and which feeds and discharges the recording medium via the opening; an image forming section which forms an image on the recording medium fed from the first paper feed discharge unit and the second paper feed discharge unit; a first transport mechanism which transports the recording medium from the first paper feed discharge unit to the image forming section; a second transport mechanism which connects the second paper feed discharge unit and the first transport mechanism and which transports the recording medium; a paper feed unit which feeds the recording medium or a storage type recording medium having a storage unit; a transport control unit which controls the first and second transport mechanisms.
US08662382B2
A non-contact storage medium fixing structure includes a non-contact storage medium that has a memory unit which stores predetermined information of an object to be controlled, a pair of wire connection guide members respectively provided at at least two positions on a body of the non-contact storage medium, and a wire connection member that fixes the non-contact storage medium at a predetermined position of the object to be controlled, by way of the pair of wire connection guide members.
US08662381B2
A dose counter for counting doses of medicament dispensed by or remaining in a metered-dose inhaler. The dose counter includes: a rotatably mounted gear wheel having a circular arrangement of ratchet teeth; a display coupled to the gear wheel, the display having a visible array of dose counting indicia indexable in response to rotary motion of the gear wheel; and an actuator mechanism having a driver for rotatably driving the gear wheel in response to the dispensation of a medicament dose, the driver being arranged to engage the ratchet teeth of the gear wheel. The actuator mechanism includes a pivotally mounted lever having an input portion. The lever is arranged to amplify a linear stroke at the input portion such that a linear stroke of the driver exceeds the linear input stroke. By amplifying the stroke, the risk of undercounting due to insufficient stroke length may be reduced.
US08662376B2
A wheel resurfacing method and system for resurfacing a worn track wheel to its original profile are disclosed. The system comprises a support for maintaining the worn railway wheel, a welding device, a controller, and a surface processing device. The worn railway wheel's circumferential surface defining a flange and a tread surface is reconstituted using a welding material. The welding device and the worn railway wheel rotate one relative to the other at a predetermined rate to adaptively aggregate annular welding beads along the circumferential surface to form a curvilinear profile slanted away from the flange. A surface processing device is then applied to the welded layer to form a substantially uniform surface to reconstitute the worn railway wheel to its original profile.
US08662372B2
A spindle head for performing friction stir welding includes concentric spindle shafts driven by stacked, coaxial motors contained within a spindle housing. The coaxial arrangement of the motors results in a more compact package. Each of the motors is concentrically arranged around one of the spindles by directly connecting a rotor of the motor to a spindle shaft. The stators of the motors are mounted on the housing and are concentrically arranged around the concentric spindle shafts.
US08662369B1
An exemplary surgical staple may include a base including a first end and a second end; a single tine extending from the second end of the base; and a barb extending from the base at a location between the first end of the base and the second end of the base. An end of such a staple may be frangibly affixed to a feeder belt. Another exemplary surgical apparatus may include at least one staple including a base including a first end and a second end, a first tine extending from the second end of the base, and a second tine extending from the base at a location between the first end of the base and the second end of the base.
US08662365B2
A cargo carrier adapted to be removably mounted to a roof of a vehicle includes a body portion and an interior space defined by the body portion. The cargo carrier further includes a lid portion that provides access to the interior space. The lid portion is releasably attachable to the body portion by relative linear motion between the lid portion and the body portion. The cargo carrier further includes at least one mechanical fastening assembly slidingly engageable with a complementary fastening assembly, wherein the mechanical fastening assembly prevents relative motion between the lid portion and the body portion. Another embodiment of the cargo carrier includes a lid cover constructed to coact with a space defined by the lid portion and the body portion. The lid cover creates mechanical interference to prevent relative linear motion between the lid portion and the body portion.
US08662360B2
In a liquid distributor, a valve seat is hollow axially with a connection part in the lower end. The valve bonnet can axially move relative to the valve seat, and has a liquid outlet and a cylinder housing part. The valve plug is in a fluid outlet chamber, comprising a valve plug main body, a plug and valve plate part. The valve plug main body is hollow axially and the bottom with the inner wall of the central passage seals. The plug is molded in the head of the aforementioned valve plug main body and a transversal outlet is formed between the plug and the valve plug main body. The valve plate part radially extends and is molded in the upper end of the valve plug main body; the elastic piece is arranged in the fluid outlet chamber. The invention further discloses a container provided with the liquid distributor.
US08662356B2
A dispenser including a base unit with an actuation mechanism for dispensing liquid and a refill unit insertible into the base unit in an inverted configuration with its outlet lowermost for the supply of liquid to the base unit. The refill unit includes an annular wall projecting into the refill unit and defining an outlet from the refill unit, the annular wall being closable at its innermost end by a valve element biased onto the annular wall. The base unit includes a hollow spigot and an annular seal surrounding and spaced from the top of the spigot whereby insertion of the refill unit into the base unit causes the spigot to enter the annular wall and to lift the valve element from the annular wall to define a flow path from the refill unit, and the annular seal to seal between the spigot and the annular wall.
US08662351B2
A secondary container assembly includes a skirt configured to securely and removably engage the rim of a beverage can. The secondary container includes a secondary compartment holding a secondary liquid. A primary flow channel extends through the secondary container to provide a fluid flow path from the open beverage can to an outlet of the secondary container. A plurality of mixing apertures provide fluid communication ports between the secondary compartment and the primary flow channel, allowing the secondary liquid to mix with beverage from the can in the primary flow channel. A vent tube prevents a vacuum from forming that would otherwise impede flow of the secondary liquid into the primary flow channel. A removable seal covers the outlet and mixing ports. A threaded lid holds the seal in place.
US08662350B2
There is provided a storage container for a dental adhesive that allows a stable dropping operation during use of a dental adhesive and smooth fine dropping work such as strict control of an amount of drops with high reproducibility, and can prevent expansion of an adhesive stored in the storage container caused by a temperature increase. A storage container for a dental adhesive is used, including a cylindrical container portion that can store a liquid such as an adhesive therein, wherein one end surface of the container portion has a discharge port communicating with an outside, the other end surface of the container portion is closed by a bottom wall, and a tail portion is formed protruding from the bottom wall to the side opposite from the discharge port.
US08662339B2
A liquid flavor enhancement apparatus includes a lid for a container adapted to hold a liquid to be consumed and an aroma pod arranged in the lid. The lid defines a consumption opening extending therethrough to allow passage of the liquid from the container through the lid during consumption of the liquid. The aroma pod includes a body adapted for insertion into a liquid container lid, and has an aromatic material retained therein. Air inside the container is allowed to pass through the aroma pod from the second to the first surface of the lid. The container is filled such that the liquid does not contact the aromatic material during filling.
US08662334B2
A vacuum storage container having a container body, a check valve and a lid with an outer rim surrounding a diaphragm. A vacuum pump is engagable with the check valve to remove air from the interior of the container to create a vacuum in the container. The diaphragm is pushed inward by atmospheric forces upon removal of the air until the diaphragm touches and conforms to at least upper exposed surfaces of the contents of the container. The storage container aids in preventing degradation of the contents of the container by maintaining the contents free from the degrading effects of air and by substantially immobilizing the contents during movement of the container to protect the contents from breakage and bruising.
US08662333B2
A foldable box having four foldable exterior walls has at least one stable exterior wall having at least a first and a second spherical wall area convex with respect to an exterior side of the box. A bridge arranged at the outside of the exterior wall is arranged between the first and the second spherical surface and extends across the height of the exterior wall. At least one rib additionally extends from the bridge to the first and to the second spherical surface area.
US08662332B2
A blow molded plastic container for hot fill and pasteurization uses includes a main body portion that is shaped so as to be substantially round in horizontal cross-section and a base portion. The base portion is shaped to define a generally circular standing ring and an elevated push-up portion that is positioned radially inward of the standing ring. The push-up portion includes a central region, an annular, substantially straight and substantially vertical rise portion that is positioned immediately radially inward of the standing ring and a plurality of radially oriented waves. Each of the waves extends radially outwardly from the central region to the vertical rise portion and is preferably shaped so as to subtend a substantially constant angle along its length.
US08662319B2
An integrated “T” assembly combines into a single integrated assembly, a track portion along both sides of a divider. The T assembly may have a wide-base portion, which may include a spring-urged-pusher track, on one side of the divider and a narrow-base portion on the opposite side of the divider. An offset pusher may have an upper portion that is offset, via an angled offset portion, from a lower portion of the pusher. Additional supporting bases, any of which may include spring-urged-pusher tracks and/or a spring-urged pusher, may be used under a wide product. Left and right side finisher components may be paired with T assemblies near the sides of a merchandise-display shelf. The T assembly, base, and/or end finishers may be coupled to a front rail via a complimentary tongue and groove arrangement and/or a non-slidable engagement.
US08662310B2
The invention relates to a method for increasing the concentration of platinum group metals in urban waste material. The method comprises obtaining particles of urban waste material; screening the particles of urban waste material by size,—selecting particles of urban waste material that lie within a defined size range; and processing the selected particles using at least one physical or chemical technique whereby to increase the concentration of platinum group metals to at least 5 ppm. The invention also relates to an apparatus for increasing the concentration of platinum group metals in particulate urban waste material. The apparatus comprises: a drying unit (4), a particle size screening unit (5); and one or more processing units for effecting platinum group metal concentration of the particulate urban waste material by physical and/or chemical techniques, in particular a magnetic separation unit (7) and a froth flotation cell (9).
US08662307B2
A one-piece thermoformed packaging cap for article shock-protection which has two elongate wings integrally hinged and have upstanding shoulders which define a channel that receives part of the article. Ridges and grooves run along the shoulders of each wing such that when the wings are folded abut each other, the ridges and grooves of one wing nest within those of the other wing and provide cushioning and lateral interlocking between the wings. Caps can have four wings and wrap the entire perimeter of the article and may incorporate a locking tab to secure the wrap. Alternatively, an assembly of partial wrap-components can be locked via flap-tabs. For locking, a projection of one wing enters into a recess of another wing, and a locking flap of the latter wing is folded and a projection of the flap is snapped into the reverse recess of the thermoformed projection.
US08662305B2
A display package is provided that informs the customer of the product contained therein as well as providing a functional and useful storage unit for artificial nails when not in use. The display package includes a cylindrical neck portion at a first end having one or more grooves and a cap having one or more tabs located in an inner portion of the cap, the one or more tabs fitting into the one or more grooves. The display package further comprises a main body having a front wall, a back wall, and sidewalls that contour inwards to connect to the cylindrical neck portion, the main body having a flat base at a second end opposite to the cylindrical neck portion with the walls of the main body forming a cavity there within.
US08662291B2
A telescopic belt conveyor includes a base conveyor unit (4), an outer conveyor unit (10) and optionally one or more intermediate conveyor units (6, 8). The outer conveyor unit (10) and any intermediate conveyor units (6, 8) are mounted on the base conveyor unit and extendable telescopically therefrom in an extension direction. The outer conveyor unit (10) includes a pivotable conveyor section (12) that is mounted for pivoting movement about a substantially horizontal pivot axis. A conveyor belt (14) is supported by the base conveyor unit (4), the outer conveyor unit (10) and the intermediate conveyor units (6, 8), the conveyor belt providing a conveyor surface that extends continuously along an upper surface of the base conveyor unit (4), the outer conveyor unit (10) and the intermediate conveyor units (6, 8). The pivotable conveyor section (12) has a free end remote from the pivot axis whose height relative to a ground surface may be adjusted by pivoting movement of the pivotable conveyor section.
US08662279B2
A method of upgrading a single space meter that includes an existing meter mechanism located within an outer meter housing is provided. The method includes providing a new meter mechanism that includes wireless communications hardware configured to wirelessly communicate with a parking management system and a credit card mag-strip reader. The method includes removing a preexisting meter from an outer meter housing and inserting the upgraded mechanism into a preexisting internal space of the outer housing.
US08662275B2
A synchronizing ring for a synchronizing device of a motor vehicle gearing with a ring body. The ring body has a plurality of recesses, and frictional elements are arranged in the recesses.
US08662270B2
An actuator for operating a multi-mode overrunning multi-directional clutch includes an axially displaceable shaft portion, an engagement member connected to the shaft portion and having a resilient segment for displacing a piston to engage the clutch. A locking portion is connected to the shaft portion for displacing an actuator pin to lock the clutch. In an example embodiment, the clutch is a three-mode overrunning bi-directional clutch. In some example embodiments, the resilient segment is radially flexible. In some example embodiments, the engagement member includes a tubular section with a plurality of circumferentially-offset axial slots, and the resilient segment is circumferentially disposed between corresponding axial slots.
US08662254B2
In one embodiment, the invention provides a lubrication system for a machine comprising: a direct current (DC) motor; a battery system for powering the DC motor; a lubricating system in communication with the DC motor, the lubricating system including a supply of lubricating oil and a pump for delivering the lubricating oil to at least one component of the machine requiring lubrication; a hydraulic motor operably coupled to a shaft of the DC motor; a supply of a pressurized fluid in communication with the hydraulic motor; and a control device for discharging the supply of pressurized fluid into the hydraulic motor to power the hydraulic motor, whereby the hydraulic motor, when powered by the supply of pressurized fluid, is operable to turn the shaft of the DC motor, thereby reducing an operating current supplied to the DC motor by the battery system.
US08662250B2
A mobile oilfield storage tank includes a front wall and a removable stair system coupled thereto. The stair system includes a platform suitable for use as a walkway and a platform extension operably associated therewith. The platform extension creates a continuous walkway between the platform and a platform of an adjacent mobile oilfield storage tank.
US08662248B2
The present invention relates to a sound attenuation stud. The stud includes two engagement portions for engaging within a building element. The stud also includes two sound attenuation formations located between the engagement portions. Each sound attenuation formation includes a first portion relative to which second and third portions extend. Preferably, each portion is either parallel or orthogonal with all the other portions.
US08662239B2
A series-hybrid vehicle is provided, comprising a vehicle body frame; a pair of right and left front wheels; a pair of right and left rear wheels; a drive motor mounted to the vehicle body frame to drive the front wheels or the rear wheels; a battery mounted to a center portion of the vehicle body frame in a forward and rearward direction to supply electric power to the drive motor; an engine electric generator including an electric generator for generating electric power charged into the battery and an engine for actuating the electric generator; and a driver seat; wherein the driver seat is positioned rightward or leftward relative to a center portion of the vehicle body frame in a vehicle width direction; and the engine is positioned at an opposite side of the driver seat relative to the center portion of the vehicle body frame in the vehicle width direction.
US08662229B2
A saddle-ride vehicle includes a vehicle-body frame, an engine, a seat, a storage box, a box lid, a box-side locking mechanism, a filler lid, a filler-side locking mechanism, an unlocking mechanism, a box-side cable, and a filler-side cable. The unlocking mechanism includes a key cylinder which is key-operated. The unlocking mechanism is disposed between a head pipe and the storage box. The box-side cable is connected to the key cylinder. The box-side cable is to be caused to unlock a lock of the box-side locking mechanism by turning a key in one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction. The filler-side cable is connected to the key cylinder. The filler-side cable is to be caused to unlock a lock of the filler-side locking mechanism by turning the key in another of the clockwise direction and the counterclockwise direction.
US08662228B2
A three-wheeled leaning passenger vehicle comprises a frame rigidly mounting a passenger seat; a rear wheel rotatably mounted on the frame in a rearward region thereof; a frame-mounted rotary drive cooperatively coupled with the rear wheel for rotation of the rear wheel relative to the frame; and a frame-mounted coast/steer system including two front wheels freely rotatable relative to the frame in a forward region thereof, and a handlebar coupled with the two front wheels for turning the two front wheels in a plane defined by their rotational axes substantially parallel with one another to corner, the vehicle being configured to substantially freely lean left and right in a natural response to a driver thereof in the driver seat steering the vehicle and leaning respectively left and right, and, alternatively or additionally, to have controlled leaning in response to a hydraulically or otherwise provisioned front-wheel suspension subsystem.
US08662225B2
A built-in equipment for a micro-hybrid device for an automotive vehicle, and to a micro-hybrid device comprising the same. The built-in equipment for a micro-hybrid device for an automotive vehicle of the present invention can be electrically connected to operational components of the micro-hybrid device and comprises a pack of super-capacitors provided with voltage balancing means and electronic circuits. The equipment comprises a housing containing a first compartment for receiving the pack of super-capacitors, and a second for receiving the electronic circuits and the voltage balancing means.
US08662217B2
A hospital bed with a chassis and with four rollers arranged on the chassis has at least one further auxiliary roller that can be brought into contact with the floor or that can alternatively be driven. The auxiliary roller is mounted on a rigid frame and, together with the frame, can be raised or lowered relative to the chassis by pivoting. A drive motor is secured on the frame and drives the auxiliary roller. A separate pivot drive is provided for raising and lowering the auxiliary roller. The separate pivot drive is secured entirely on the frame and pivots with the frame.
US08662213B2
An amorphous robot includes a compartmented bladder containing fluid, a valve assembly, and an outer layer encapsulating the bladder and valve assembly. The valve assembly draws fluid from a compartment(s) and discharges the drawn fluid into a designated compartment to displace the designated compartment with respect to the surface. Another embodiment includes elements each having a variable property, an outer layer that encapsulates the elements, and a control unit. The control unit energizes a designated element to change its variable property, thereby moving the designated element. The elements may be electromagnetic spheres with a variable polarity or shape memory polymers with changing shape and/or size. Yet another embodiment includes an elongated flexible tube filled with ferrofluid, a moveable electromagnet, an actuator, and a control unit. The control unit energizes the electromagnet and moves the electromagnet via the actuator to magnetize the ferrofluid and lengthen the flexible tube.
US08662207B2
Rotary drag bits comprise a body comprising a face at a leading end of the body. An abrasive-impregnated cutting structure is located at the face of the bit body. The abrasive-impregnated cutting structure comprises abrasive particles dispersed within a matrix material. The abrasive-impregnated cutting structure exhibits an anisotropic wear resistance. The wear resistance varies at least substantially continuously within the abrasive-impregnated cutting structure.
US08662197B2
The disclosure relates to a method of assembling a hand machine tool having (i) an intermediate flange that includes (i) at least one base body having a slot-shaped opening extending in a bearing position and in a bearing, (ii) an intermediate shaft assembly that includes an intermediate shaft and a wobble bearing having a wobble pin, and (iii) a drive piston. The method includes sliding the drive piston onto the wobble pin, introducing the wobble pin into the slot-shaped opening such that the drive piston slides into the at least one base body, and inserting, in an assembly direction corresponding to a direction of a longitudinal axis of the base body, the intermediate shaft of the intermediate shaft assembly into a second base body of the immediate flange.
US08662196B2
It is an object of the invention to provide an effective technique for a motor support structure of a power tool to reduce vibration. A representative reciprocating power tool may include a tool body, a tool bit, a grip, a motor, a tool bit side bearing, a grip side bearing, a tool bit side bearing housing, a grip and an elastic element. The tool bit side bearing housing houses the tool bit side bearing, while the grip side bearing housing houses the grip side bearing. The elastic element is disposed between the grip side bearing housing and the grip wherein the grip side bearing housing is elastically supported by the grip via the elastic element. According to the invention, because the grip is adapted to support the grip side bearing housing via the elastic element and the rigidity of the grip side bearing housing can be increased and vibration of the grip side bearing housing can be reduced. Further, the elastic element can absorb manufacturing errors caused between the tool body and the grip when the grip is mounted to the tool body.
US08662188B2
A technique facilitates the conveyance of signals along a drill pipe. A cable system is combined with the drill pipe and attached along the drill pipe to convey signals. The cable system may comprise a conductive cable, a cable retention system, a cable termination, and a cable connector coupled to the conductive cable at the cable termination.
US08662183B1
A blow out preventer comprises a valve casing assembly, a tubing cutter, a hydraulic cylinder and piston, and a linkage assembly. The valve casing assembly has a first port and a second port. The ports are in axial alignment along a longitudinal axis extending between the ports. The well tubing is run through the ports and transversely through the tubing cutter. The tubing cutter is rotatably positioned in the casing assembly and is rotatable from a first position to a second position. The tubing cutter has an axis of rotation which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the valve casing assembly. The piston is annularly shaped and moves parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve casing. Linkage between the piston and the tubing cutter converts the axial movement of the piston into rotational movement of the tubing cutter to shear the tubing when needed. When the tubing has been sheared, a seal is formed between a face of the tubing cutter and a valve seat in the valve casing assembly.
US08662178B2
A wellbore servicing apparatus comprising a housing substantially defining an axial flowbore and comprising one or more ports, an expandable seat, and a sliding sleeve slidably fitted within the housing, the sliding sleeve being transitional from a first position to a second position and from the second position to a third position, wherein, in the first position, the sliding sleeve does not permit fluid communication via the one or more ports and the expandable seat is retained in a narrower, non-expanded conformation, wherein, in the second position, the sliding sleeve permits fluid communication via the one or more ports and the expandable seat is retained in a narrower, non-expanded conformation, and wherein, in the third position, the sliding sleeve does not permit fluid communication via the one or more ports and the expandable seat is allowed to expand into a wider, expanded conformation.
US08662168B2
A sensor used to determine the height of one or more fluids in a fluid column and to determine a location of an interface or boundary between a plurality of fluids in a fluid column is disclosed. The sensor includes a plurality of sensing elements comprising a capacitor and other components, such as resistors and inductors. The sensor also includes an oscillator that alters a frequency of an electrical current applied to the sensor, from which the dielectric constant of the fluid in which each sensing element is disposed can be determined. Methods of using such a sensor to determine the relative heights of various fluids in a fluid column are disclosed. In particular, methods of using embodiments of the invention in a well, such as water and petroleum wells, are described.
US08662167B2
A separating device for removing sand and rock particles, and is an integral component of extraction equipment for extraction of liquids or gases from deep wells, having at least one ceramic filter module comprising: an annular stack of annular discs, the upper side of which has at least three elevations uniformly distributed over the circumference of the discs, the discs are stacked such that a separating gap for the removal of sand and rock particles is present between the individual discs, a coupling-on element at the upper end and a coupling-on element at the lower end of the annular stack, a clamping device bracing the annular stack, an outer cage, a coupling element at the upper end and a coupling element at the lower end of the filter module connecting the filter module to further components of the extraction equipment.
US08662147B2
The present invention is directed to provide a geothermal air-conditioner device utilising the earth's temperature and electrical field for processing—preheating, cooling and purifying—room intake air. This air-conditioner device includes at least one first pressure reducing chamber (1) with air intake opening (8) and second pressure reducing chamber (2) with processed air outlet (9), whereas these chambers are connected to each other by air conduits (3) located in the ground for conveying air from the first pressure reducing chamber (1) to the second pressure reducing chamber (2). The earth layer (4) on the air channels (3) is covered by a coarse material layer (5), under which at least one first ventilation conduit (6) is extending, through which coarse material layer is connected to air in chamber (1). Likewise there is exhaust ventilation piping (7) to provide exhaust from the coarse material layer (5) located.
US08662128B2
A heavy duty tire comprises a belt disposed radially outside a carcass. The belt consists of a innermost first ply, a second ply and a outermost third belt ply. With respect to the tire equator, the cords of the first ply are laid at an angle θ1 of 15 to 25 degrees; the cords of the second ply are laid at an angle θ2 of 15 to 25 degrees; the cords of the third ply are laid at an angle θ3 of 45 to 60 degrees; the cords of the second ply are inclined oppositely to the cords of the first ply; the cords of the third ply are inclined to the same direction as the cords of the second ply; |θ2−θ1| is not more than 5 degrees; |θ3−θ2| is 30 to 45 degrees; the axial widths W1, W2 and W3 of the first, second and third belt plies, respectively, satisfy W1>W2>W3; strengths S1, S2 and S3 of the first, second and third belt plies, respectively, satisfy S1>S2>S3 and 1.0>S2/S1>=0.6.
US08662127B2
A self-inflating tire system includes a compression actuator assembly mounted to a tire carcass for compressing air for delivery to a tire cavity. The compression actuator assembly includes a hollow containment body formed from a resilient deformable material composition and containing a quantity of a non-compressible medium. The containment body is affixed to a relatively high flex-deformation region of the tire carcass and reciprocally transforms between a deformed state and a non-deformed state responsive to deformation and recovery of the tire high flex-deformation region in a rolling tire. Accordingly, the containment body in the deformed state displaces a pressurized displaced quantity of the non-compressible medium which generates a compression force for application to a volume of air delivered to the tire cavity. A pump assembly affixes to the tire carcass and includes valves for reciprocally opening and closing the inlet opening and the outlet opening of a compressor body synchronously with the cyclic transformation of the containment body.
US08662121B2
Methods for reducing warp potential of lumber derived from a raw material, such as a log or stem are provided. The methods involve examining the log or stem for shrinkage properties and/or properties of spiral grain. The location of the shrinkage properties and/or properties of spiral grain determine how the log is oriented relative to a cutting device. In another embodiment, these characteristics determine what cutting pattern is selected for creating the lumber. In the case of a stem, these characteristics determine how the stem will be bucked.
US08662112B2
A three-dimensional distance woven fabric including two outer fabrics, at least one inter-layered fabric and a plurality of inter-yarns connected with each one of the outer fabrics and the inter-layered fabric, wherein a gap between the inter-layered fabrics and each one of the outer fabrics of the three-dimensional distance woven fabric is greater than 20 centimeters and is less than 300 centimeters. A weaving machine and a method for weaving the aforesaid three-dimensional distance woven fabric are also provided.
US08662104B2
A slot valve (20) for use in the pneumatic switching circuit of a respirator, wherein said slot valve is designed to act bidirectionally and to pass over into the opened state to make possible the flow of a fluid at different pressure threshold values depending on the direction of flow of a fluid.
US08662103B2
The present invention includes a hose reel having side rollers. A hose reel includes: a housing defined by at least one or more base members; a spool rotatably disposed within the housing, wherein the spool is adapted to connect to a flexible hose; a winding mechanism to rotate the spool and to coil the flexible hose around the spool; and one or more rollers associated with said housing, wherein the one or more rollers are able to rotate during coiling of the flexible hose around the spool.
US08662102B2
A gas appliance including a frame and a control knob assembly connected to the frame, the control knob assembly including a gas valve with a valve stem, a control knob attached to the valve stem, and a valve restraint. The valve restraint is substantially fixed relative to the frame and longitudinally disposed substantially between the gas valve and control knob, and is configured to limit lateral movement of the valve stem.
