US07938158B2
A puncture resistant pneumatic tire has a tread portion and a pair of lateral tread edges. A belt package is located radially inward of the tread portion and a carcass structure has at least one body ply which extends between and is turned up around a pair of bead cores. A protective band extends circumferentially about the tire radially beneath the tread portion and includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced metal rods, each of which extends in a lateral direction between the tread edges. The protective band may be located radially inward or outward of a spiral ply layer and the rods may be arranged in a staggered laterally offset layered relationship. The rods have a circular cross-section with a diameter of between 1/16 inch and ¼ inch and a length of between 7 inches and 8 inches and will deflect and dislodge the pointed end of road debris before it completely punctures the tire.
US07938150B2
Reduction of fuel tank heating during the refueling process is effected by a coolant exchange between the station and the vehicle whereby an on board heat exchanger internal to the tank is interconnected through a heat exchanger external to the tank with a station side cooler that cools the refill gas to an ambient temperature. As a result of station provided ambient temperature cooling, the vehicle does not need to have particularly complicated on-board cooling devices, nor does the station need to be encumbered with complex and expensive pre cooling devices.
US07938148B2
A method of thermally insulating the annular space in an element of an assembly of two coaxial pipes, the space being filled with a porous thermally insulating material, under low absolute gas pressure in which method the following steps are performed: a) the pipe element is inclined, preferably at an angle α of 5° to 30°, the annular space being closed at each end by respective closure pieces; and b) substantially all of the annular space is filled with the insulating material in the form of particles in bulk; and c) preferably said particles of insulating material are shaken, at least intermittently, as the annular space is filled in order to compact the insulating material, the annular space being maintained under high vacuum during filling.
US07938143B2
In an electromagnetic hydraulic pressure control valve of an N/L type, an electromagnetic actuator provides a force to a spool, which is slidably received in a valve housing, in a valve opening direction for opening an input port of the valve housing. A return spring provides a force to the spool in the valve closing direction. A constriction is provided to constrict a flow passage cross sectional area in a fluid passage, which extends from the input port to a hydraulic servo. A negative pressure port opens in a direction generally perpendicular to a flow direction of a fluid at a location, at which a fluid velocity of the fluid is accelerated by the constriction. A negative pressure guide passage communicates between the negative pressure port and a feedback chamber defined in the valve housing.
US07938142B2
A valve for generating a flow of pressurized fluid in response to a command, including: a discharge conduit for discharging the pressurized fluid; a valve body surrounding the discharge conduit; a chamber that connects the discharge conduit to the valve body; a cover covering the discharge conduit and forming the chamber; and a flexible membrane positioned within the chamber. The cover includes an access hole for charging the valve body with the pressurized fluid, and for commanding the discharge of the pressurized fluid. The discharge conduit includes a grid in that part thereof that communicates with the chamber. The flexible membrane is fixed to the center of the grid.
US07938135B2
A tent having a wind resistant tubular frame comprises: a frame having a) multiple frame legs, each leg having a lower portion lockingly hinged to an upper portion, wherein the lower portion can be swung open from a storage position in which the upper and lower portions are adjacent to each other, and then locked in an open operable position; and, b) a crown to which the an inner end portion of the upper portion of each one of the multiple legs is hinged generally laterally thereto, wherein the legs can be laterally rotated from a storage position in which they are adjacent to each other to an operable, spaced apart position in which the frame legs radiate outwardly from the crown; and, a canvas, shaped to cover one of an inner and outer sides of the frame. In a preferred aspect of this invention the tent further comprises a door side leg for opening an entire segment of the tent between two tent frame legs for convenient entry of large equipment. The door side leg is rotably positioned between two spaced apart frame legs and can be rotated between an open position and a closed position adjacent to a leg on one side of the door. Canvas attached to the door side leg is pulled and held in a closed position when the leg is rotated to the closed position.
US07938134B2
A protective shelter that may be used to protect observers, players, and others from inclement weather during a sporting event, for example, includes an arcuate-shaped, flexible cover with side portions configured to receive side frame members, which in turn are connected to elongated cover support members coupled to the cover. The various frame members and cover support members may be connected with a number of different types of couplers. In addition, a majority of the side frame members and support members may remain coupled to the flexible cover after the protective shelter has been disassembled and placed in a transportable configuration.
US07938131B2
A fluid dispenser for use in the processing of substrates. The dispenser has a dome shaped body with a convex upper surface and has a number of conduits designed to supply fluid to the surface of a substrate at predetermined points.
US07938125B2
The invention relates to smokable filler materials and a process for making same, the smokable filler material comprising a foaming agent, an agent capable of forming chemical cross-linkages, and a cross-linking agent. A combination of the foaming agent in the foamed state thereof, the agent capable of forming chemical crosslinkages and the cross-linking agent provides a stabilized, foamed material. The invention also provides a smoking article incorporating the smokable filler material of the invention.
US07938121B2
The present invention provides an abdominal restraint for use in medical and surgical procedures that is specially adapted for restraining an abdominal pannus and exposing the groin area of a patient. The abdominal restraint of the present invention includes a base member and a support member that is selectively attachable to the base member. Alternatively, the abdominal restraint of the present invention includes a lateral member that is selectively attachable to at least one longitudinal member, which in turn may be attached to an operating or examining table. In its various embodiments, the present invention discloses a number of designs for the safe and efficient restraint of an abdominal pannus.
US07938113B2
An inline vaporizer disposed in a carrier gas line vaporizes a fluid and adds such vaporized fluid to a carrier gas that flows within the carrier gas line. The vaporizer includes a reservoir or wick that transfers a fluid to a vaporizing element that is adjacent to the reservoir or wick. The vaporizer releases a vapor into the carrier gas line so that the carrier gas flows past the vaporizer to form a vapor and carrier gas mixture.
US07938096B2
An engine start control device includes a starter energizing circuit that has two transistors connected in series and energizes a starter relay, and an idling stop ECU that performs energization control to turn on a transistor and energizes the starter relay when automatic start requirements are satisfied. Prior to the energization control, the idling stop ECU sequentially performs OFF failure detection and ON failure detection in one of the transistors, and OFF failure detection and ON failure detection in the other one of the transistors. The failure detection is aborted when failure is found. With this structure, ON failure in the two transistors can be detected with accuracy, and inadvertent driving of the starter can be prevented.
US07938090B2
A variable phase mechanism is described which comprises a drive member rotatable about an axis, first and second driven members rotatable in synchronism with the drive member, an actuator for rotating the first driven member relative to the drive member to vary the phase of rotation of the first driven member relative to the drive member, and a yoke coupling the second driven member for rotation with one of the drive member and the first driven member and movable transversely relative to the axis of the drive member to vary the phase of rotation of the second driven member relative to the drive member. In the invention, transverse movement of the yoke is effected by means of interaction between the other of the drive member and the first driven member and a radially outwards facing surface defined by the yoke.
US07938089B2
A valve actuating mechanism includes a first rocker arm moving mechanism including a first spring for urging left and right rocker arms from a first operation position side towards a second operation position side. The valve actuating mechanism also includes a second rocker arm moving mechanism including a second spring for urging the left and right rocker arms from the second operation position side towards the first operation position side. When a predetermined force is applied to the left and right rocker arms by one of the respective springs, the rocker arms are configured to be moved to operation positions corresponding to the applied force.
US07938088B2
An ECU transmits a pulsed operation command signal, indicating operation commands for an electric motor used as a VVT actuator, to an electric-motor EDU. The electric-motor EDU recognizes the combination of the direction in which the actuator should be operated (actuator operation direction) and the control mode based on the duty ratio of the operation command signal, and the rotational speed command value based on the frequency of the operation command signal. The electric-motor EDU controls the electric motor according to the control commands. The duty ratio indicating the combination is set such that even if the duty ratio is falsely recognized, a false recognition concerning the actuator operation direction is prevented, such false recognition causing the valve phase to change in an undesirable direction, and even if the actuator operation direction is falsely recognized, the rate of change in the phase is restricted.
US07938085B1
A pet enclosure comprising a floor panel, vertical sidewalls and a top panel connected by means of extruded corner members to form a rectangular box-like structure having two openings at opposite ends. A front and a rear door panel is removably mounted to and secured to the enclosure at the openings by means of pins that are connected to a spring latch; they engage latch holes on the corner members.
US07938084B2
A livestock feeder is provided wherein the seams of the feeder are detachable/re-attachable so as to break away from the livestock in case of entanglement. The break away feature may be applied to various configurations of livestock feeders. The breakaway feature is provided so as to avoid injury to the livestock and also make the livestock feeders easier to clean. Seam attachment means include, but are not limited to, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives, zippers, snaps or buttons.
US07938081B2
A radial line slot antenna (RLSA) is described for generating plasma during semiconductor device fabrication. The antenna comprises a resonator plate having a partially open, electrically conductive layer coupled to a surface of the resonator plate. For example, the electrically conductive layer is formed at an interface between the resonator plate and the plasma.
US07938075B1
An automated seed detection and planting synchronization apparatus, method and system is disclosed. The invention includes a seed detection protocol configured to monitor a derived metric equated to timing of movement of a seed carried by a seed metering unit from a seed pick-up to seed drop point. For controlling synchronization of planting of seed, a seed metering unit empty notification signal is provided if the derived metric is satisfied and sensor readings confirm the absence of seed in the seed metering unit.
US07938073B2
An air seed meter having a rotating disc with seed openings arranged in a circumferential pattern includes a holder adapted to be mounted to the meter housing and carries two balls spring-biased to reciprocate and enter the seed openings as they pass and clear debris from the openings. The balls may also engage dimples on the seed disc located between seed openings or groups of seed openings (in the case of a hill drop planter) in the disc as it rotates to cause vibration in the disc to promote the release of seeds as they exit the vacuum chamber.
US07938069B2
An apparatus for supporting upon an underlying surface has an adjustable backing plate structure. The backing plate structure has a main backing plate, first and second connecting racks extending from respectively opposite sides of the main backing plate, and a supporting member connected to the first and second connecting racks. The support member is in the form of a roller and is movable between a first position extending in parallel spaced relation to an end of the main backing plate and a second position contacting a bottom surface of the main backing plate. Each of the first and second connecting racks has a locating end received in a slot of the main backing plate so as to be adjustably slidable therein.
US07938065B2
An actuator assembly that includes, in one example embodiment, a substrate with a bridge coupled between a first electrode and a second electrode on the substrate. A lithographically disposed flyer is positioned in proximity to the bridge. In a more specific embodiment, the actuator assembly further includes a lithographically disposed barrel that partially surrounds the flyer. A fireset is coupled to pins that extend through the substrate to the first electrode and the second electrode. The flyer further includes a three-dimensional surface adapted to flatten during flight. The flyer may be concave, convex, or may star shaped, may have perforations therein, or may exhibit another shape or other features.
US07938063B2
An intaglio printing press includes, a rotary screen comprising a hollow cylinder, which has a small hole group for special ink supply formed in a circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder and which is supported rotatably, and a squeegee contacting an inner peripheral surface of the hollow cylinder, a rubber roller supported rotatably to oppose an outer peripheral surface of the hollow cylinder at a position where the squeegee contacts the inner peripheral surface of the hollow cylinder, and a sheet supplied with special ink, which has been stored within the hollow cylinder, by the squeegee via the small hole group of the hollow cylinder. The intaglio printing press further includes special ink guide means, such as guide grooves, for guiding a surplus of the special ink, which is not supplied to the sheet by the squeegee, to the small hole group of the hollow cylinder.
US07938053B1
A multi-layer armor comprises: an outer composite spaced from an inner composite. The outer composite comprises (a.) a high strength strike surface layer, (b.) a high strain rate sensitivity-hardening polymer and (c.) a second high strength layer. The inner composite comprises spaced silica glass layers, an acrylic glass layer and a spall liner. In one embodiment the armor is transparent and used to shield a vehicle windshield. In a second embodiment the armor is opaque and is attached to vehicle base armor. The armor may also be applied to a ship. The armor uses commercially available components, is relative inexpensive and is effective.
US07938041B1
In a bi-directional overrunning clutched differential unit, a pair of coaxial hubs are relatively unrotatably fitted on respective coaxial output shafts, and are relatively rotatably inserted into a cage holding rollers. A pair of second bearings journal a clutch housing disposed around the cage is diametrically larger than a pair of first bearings journaling the respective hubs, and are disposed between the first bearings in the axial direction of the output shafts. An axial end portion of the cage and the second bearing on the same axial side are distant from the first bearing on the same axial side so as to have a space where a friction mechanism for applying a frictional rotation resistance onto the cage is disposed.
US07938037B2
A gearbox arrangement for a drive train of a motor vehicle, such as a double clutch gearbox arrangement or a power shift gearbox arrangement, has at least one group of gear-shifting elements (1, 2) which can be actuated for engaging and disengaging at least one respective gear of the gearbox arrangement in that they are moved relative to a gearbox housing between at least one neutral position, in which no gear associated with the gear-shifting element is engaged, and at least one engaged-gear position, in which a gear associated with the gear-shifting element and the engaged-gear position is engaged. The arrangement according to the invention is characterised by at least one safety device (210) associated with the gear-shifting elements or with a group of gear-shifting elements, which takes a release position when all the gear-shifting elements are in their neutral position, and which can be moved from the release position to a safety position when one of the gear-shifting elements is moved into one of the engaged-gear positions, the safety device preventing the other gear-shifting elements from moving from their neutral position to an engaged-gear position.
US07938036B2
A motorcycle in which the clutch on-off operation and the gear-shift operation of the transmission are automated that can be driven when the actuator fails without complication of the structure and upsizing of the power unit. A crankcase of a power unit accommodates a transmission including a plurality of gears, a gear-shift clutch that is engaged or disengaged at gear-shift operation, and a shift shaft that engages or disengages the clutch and provides gear change of the transmission. Part of the shift shaft projects from the crankcase. A projecting portion of the shift shaft and an output shaft of an actuator are connected together on the outside of the crankcase with a connecting device. The connecting device is detachably connected to the projecting portion of the shift shaft or the output shaft of the actuator.
US07938031B2
A flow cell 1 is provided with a flow channel 2 which has rounded corners 3 in section. A measuring sample under high pressure is introduced into the flow channel 2 formed in the flow cell 1 and particles existing in the measuring sample are measured. The measuring sample is in a liquid phase, a gaseous phase or a super critical phase above 1 MPa.
US07938013B2
A device, system and method for analyzing a user's motion using a piezoelectric film to generate a plurality of deformation signals based upon an associated plurality of deformations, an EEPROM to record data associated with the plurality of deformation signals, and a transceiver to receive at least a portion of the recorded data from the EEPROM and to transmit data, wherein the analysis may determine an abnormality in the user's gait.
US07938009B2
A method of testing a haptic device that includes an actuator and has a first weight includes placing the haptic device on a test fixture that has a second weight that is greater than the first weight. The haptic device is placed on the test fixture so that the actuator within the haptic device is substantially close to the center of gravity of the test fixture. The method further includes causing the haptic device to generate haptic effects via the actuator, and measuring the acceleration of the test fixture during the haptic effects.
US07938006B2
Apparatus for determining the speed of sound through a specimen comprises an ultrasound sending transducer, an ultrasound receiving transducer, a pair of laser distance sensors, a display device, a controller in communication with the ultrasound sending transducer, the ultrasound receiving transducer and the pair of laser distance sensors and the display device. The ultrasound sending transducer and one laser distance sensor are supported with a transducer surface in a first plane. The ultrasound receiving transducer and one last distance sensor are supported with a transducer surface in a second plane parallel with the first plane. A support for a specimen is provided between the first and second planes. The controller is programmed for gathering data from the ultrasound transducers and the laser distance sensors for calculating the speed of ultrasound in the specimen and displaying the results.
US07938005B2
An acceleration sensor chip package includes an acceleration sensor chip; a sensor control chip; a re-wiring layer; an outer terminal; a sealing portion; and a substrate. The acceleration sensor chip includes a frame portion; a movable structure; a detection element; and an electrode pad electrically. The re-wiring layer has a wiring portion connected to the electrode pad. The electrode pad is electrically connected to a conductive bump. The sensor control chip has a sensor control electrode pad electrically connected to the conductive bump. The outer terminal is connected to the wiring portion and disposed in the outer region. The sealing portion seals the sensor control chip, the electrode pad, and the re-wiring layer, so that the movable structure is movable. The substrate is attached to the acceleration sensor chip to seal an opening portion.
US07938000B2
The present invention relates to a method and a measuring device for measuring and displaying the overlap between a rear edge of an aircraft wing and a front edge of a landing flap fixed thereto. In accordance with the invention, only the difference in the positions of the rear edge of the aircraft wing and the front edge of the landing flap relative to the longitudinal direction of the aircraft is determined. For this purpose, a first sensor is positioned, as a reference of sorts, at one of the two positions, for example at the rear edge of the aircraft wing, and the display is then reset to zero or to another reference value. By positioning the second sensor, which is also rigidly connected to the calliper, at the other respective position, for example at the front edge of the landing flap, the difference between the front edge of the landing flap relative to the rear edge of the aircraft wing is established. This value, which directly indicates the overlap value, can now be read directly from the display of the calliper.
US07937988B2
In a method and a device for testing for leakage in a fuel injection valve of an internal combustion engine, a temperature quantity is determined that characterizes the temperature of at least a part of the fuel injection valve. On the basis of this temperature quantity, the presence of a leak is inferred.
US07937985B2
Checking apparatus for checking operation of a densimeter for medium-voltage or high-voltage equipment having metal casing (4) that is filled with a dielectric gas under pressure; the apparatus comprises a closed chamber (8) suitable for being put into communication with an internal space (5) of the casing (4), and isolation means (10) for isolating the chamber (8) in gastight manner from the internal space (5), in which apparatus said closed chamber (8) has a volume that can be caused to vary, and in which apparatus the densimeter is suitable for detecting at least one pressure threshold in said chamber.
US07937982B2
A hard disk destruction apparatus is presented having a penetrating point that is manually pressed against a hard disk. The point has an angled tip designed to penetrate the hard disk casing and deform the hard disk platters within. The manual pressing avoids the use of any electrical power or other fuel. In one described embodiment, a mechanical arbor press provides the necessary force. A transparent safety shield surrounds the hard disk during destruction. A restraint prevents upward movement of the hard disk when the point is extracted.
US07937981B2
A method of mechanically treating alloy metal surgical needles to improve bending strength is disclosed. The needles are curved and reverse-curved in this method to improve bending strength.
US07937979B2
A hydroform die includes a plurality of seal units to provide fluid to die cavities. The plurality of seal units each define a piston cylinder. A piston is located within the cylinder and is selectively moveable between an open and a closed position. Additionally, the piston at least partially defines a valve chamber located on a first side of the piston and a piston chamber located on a second side of the piston. A piston fluid passage is defined by the piston to fluidly connect the valve chamber and the piston chamber.
US07937974B2
A laundry processing apparatus is disclosed. The laundry processing apparatus includes a drum having a drum opening perforated in a circumferential surface thereof for entrance/exit of laundry, a drum door for opening and closing the drum opening, and a locking device for automatically coupling the drum and the drum door to each other while the drum and the drum door are rotated.
US07937972B2
A method for making, through a circular machine for making socks with alternate motion, an item of clothing like an ankle sock in “continuum” stitched without seams to form a single piece made up of a front end elongated in the shape of a pocket, that can be associated with the toe of the foot and comprising a first and a second front portion, a rear end, also pocket-shaped, able to be associated with the heel of the foot and comprising a first and a second rear portion, and a connecting part between the front and rear ends, comprising a sole portion and two side portions, having an opening in which to insert the foot, all of the portions of the ankle sock being made with stitching steps, in which such a method foresees many simultaneous independent yarn-feeders during all of the quoted stitching steps to obtain a single ankle sock.
US07937968B2
In a known method for bonding components made of material with a high silicic acid content by means of a substance to substance bond, a SiO2-containing bonding mass is formed between connecting surfaces of the components. In order to provide for cost-efficient manufacture of a thermally stable composite, the invention proposes to generate a SiO2-containing bonding mass that is generic with regard to the material with a high silicic acid content, comprising the following procedural steps: provision of a slurry containing amorphous SiO2 particles; formation of a slurry mass between the connecting surfaces which are fixed in position with regard to each other; drying of the slurry mass; and solidification of the slurry mass by heating under formation of the SiO2-containing bonding mass. A component assembly manufactured according to the method of the invention shows high temperature resistance and thermal fatigue resistance and can also be used in contamination-sensitive applications. The component assembly is characterized by an amorphous SiO2-containing bonding mass, whose chemical composition is generic with regard to the material with the high silicic acid content of the basic material of the components, whereby the specific density of the SiO2-containing bonding mass is at least 2.0 g/cm3.
US07937967B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a method of manufacturing a glass substrate containing alkali metals. A glass substrate manufactured by the method exhibits excellent performances including durability by virtue of suppressing elution of alkali metals.A method comprises a step of immersing a glass material in an aqueous solution containing a formate to suppress elution of component of the glass material.
US07937963B1
The present invention is an architecturally advanced chiller unit having solid, insulated exterior walls adapted for the attachment of aesthetic surface treatments, pedestal supports for a bottom intake of ambient air, and separate chambers for electrical and hydraulic components. The roof houses inset modular fans adapted for topside maintenance and the roof also allows service accessibility to heat rejection components housed within the chiller unit enclosure. Heat removal is accomplished through angled heat exchangers also housed within the enclosure. Each enclosure has an end accessible vestibule that house electrical and refrigerant components. The chiller units design is also intended to allow the side by side placement of two or more units, for modularity. The improved aesthetic appearance of these units also eliminates the use of surrounding architectural parapet walls or screening units. The improved space effectiveness and modularity shall provide greater flexibility in building construction.
US07937954B2
The present invention relates to a cooling and heating cabinet device of a rear seat side for a vehicle using a thermoelectric module that is mounted between rear seats of a vehicle, having cooling and heating functions and further having an arm-resting function irrespective of its activation as the cooling and heating device, and that makes the exhaust fan activated by the control of the controller of the air conditioning system, thereby achieving the air-refreshing function as well as the cooling or heating mode function of the cooling and heating cabinet.
US07937953B2
A thermoelectric heat pump (10) is provided including a thermoelectric array (30) having alternating P-type and N-type semiconductors (33, 34) and one or more water transport membranes (20).
US07937950B2
A device for fastening a second burner (SEV burner) (1) in a sequentially operated gas turbine arrangement, in which a fuel/air mixture is burnt in a first burner, so as to form hot gases which can subsequently be supplied, partly expanded, for a second combustion to the SEV burner (1), in which the burner is designed essentially as a flow duct, with a flow duct wall, which has an orifice (2), through which a fuel supply (3) can be introduced into the interior of the SEV burner (1), and on which are provided in the axial direction of the orifice (2), in each case opposite one another, two fastening structures (5), into which in each case a carrying structure for the further fastening of the SEV burner (1) to an external carrier (8) can be introduced. The carrying structure includes a unitary carrier plate (10) on which countercontours for fastening to the two fastening structures (5) lying opposite the orifice (2) are provided and which provides a recess which corresponds at least to the size of the orifice (2) in the flow duct wall, so that, in the state fastened to the external carrier (8), the carrier plate (10) does not cover the orifice (2) of the flow duct wall.
US07937947B2
The invention is intended to maintain turbine reliability when, based on a gas turbine designed for one desired cycle, a gas turbine for another different cycle is manufactured. A channel of a compressor is formed such that a mass flow of a fluid compressed by the compressor changes. Thus, when manufacturing, based on the gas turbine designed for one desired cycle, the gas turbine for another different cycle, turbine reliability can be maintained.
US07937946B1
A small gas turbine engine with a bearing cooling and lubricating passage arrangement for a high speed rotor shaft. The engine includes a bypass fan and a compressor. The rotor shaft includes a central passage extending through the entire shaft, and where the rotor shaft is supported by a forward bearing and a rearward bearing. Cooling air for the bearings is diverted from the bypass air and is channeled through the bearings. Fuel is added to the cooling air at a location upstream of the bearing to provide lubrication. The cooling air and lubricating fuel passes through the bearings and into the rotating central shaft, and is then forced to flow toward a radial passage located adjacent to the combustor. The fuel is collected on the central shaft surface and forced out the radial passage and into the combustor. The cooling air continuous out from the central shaft to be mixed with the engine exhaust.
US07937944B2
A system for ventilating a combustion chamber wall in a turbomachine is disclosed. The system includes a centrifugal compressor, a diffuser, a combustion chamber, and an annular case arranged radially between the combustion chamber and a downstream end-piece of the diffuser. The annular case includes a radially external wall for the guidance of an air flow coming out of the diffuser, and a radially internal wall delimiting with the end-piece of the diffuser a channel for the air coming out of the diffuser to pass through.
US07937927B2
A tip turbine engine (10) provides an axial compressor rotor (46) that is counter-rotated relative to a fan (24). A planetary gearset (90) couples rotation of a fan (46) to an axial compressor rotor (46), such that the axial compressor rotor (46) is driven by rotation of the fan in a rotational direction opposite that of the fan. By counter-rotating the axial compressor rotor, a final stage of compressor vanes (54) between the final stage of compressor blades (52) and inlets (66) to the hollow fan blades (28) of the fan are eliminated. As a result, the length of the axial compressor (22) and the overall length of the tip turbine engine (10) are decreased.
US07937925B2
A drive chain suitable for use in a continuously variable transmission of a motor vehicle, the transmission having two pairs of spaced drive members about which the chain passes to transfer torque from one drive member to the other. The chain includes a plurality of link elements that include spaced, side-by-side plate links. The plate links include openings in which pairs of parallel rocker members are disposed for relative rocking movement of at least one rocker member about its longitudinal axis. A method for stretching the chain is also disclosed, in which areas of some of the plate links are plastically deformed by stretching the chain before the chain is put to use.
US07937922B2
The present invention is directed to a method for harvesting a grape cluster. The method includes providing a grape cluster hanger clip and passing a stem of the grape cluster through a portion of the grape cluster hanger clip. The method further includes conveying the grape cluster and packing the grape cluster in a box.
US07937915B2
A hand dispenser for stretch film. The stretch film from the hand dispenser is dispensed by using one hand from a person. The hand dispenser comprises a handle with prongs, a collar with a flange and a notched cylinder with flexible sections, and a foam sleeve for a cushion grip. The handle prongs are inserted into the extended core of the roll. The film is wound around one end of the extended core.
US07937914B2
To enhance evacuation of a storage bag having a one-way valve element and to reduce noise during evacuation, a handheld evacuation device includes one or more gaskets that can be made of resilient material. A gasket can be disposed about the rim of an inlet opening of the evacuation device to provide both a leak-free interface between the evacuation device and the storage bag and to reduce vibration and chatter of the evacuation device against a rigid support surface. A gasket can also be provided intermediately between a main body portion of the evacuation device and a nozzle portion that is to be placed adjacent to the storage bag during use. The intermediate gasket isolates vibrations in the main body portion thereby reducing vibrations and chatter of the evacuation device against a rigid support surface.
US07937912B2
The invention concerns a method for making a container (1) comprising two or more compartments, said method including the following steps: a first step of heat sealing (S1) performed between two sheets (111, 112) so as to form the periphery of the container and performed at a temperature such that said seal (S1) is resistant to a predetermined stress, while providing filling orifices (12), a second step of heat sealing (S2) performed to form at least one separation between the compartments (13) and performed at a second temperature lower than said first temperature and such that said seal (S2) is breakable by said stress, a third step of filling said compartments (13). The invention is characterized in that after said first sealing step, the two sealed sheets (111, 112) are arranged in a mold (2, 2′) whose shape they match under the pressure of a gas.
US07937910B2
Method and machine for preparing and depositing a stretch-film packaging sleeve on a palletized load
A packaging machine comprises a preparation station for preparing a sleeve from a stretchable plastic film wound flat around a storage reel, and a gripper device for taking hold of the sleeve and transferring it to the depositing station for enveloping the load. According to the invention, the gripper device comprises at least one set of grippers which is equipped with notched bars to create differential stretch with the formulation of a lunula. Each bar is given a translational and/or rotational movement so that the bar can be extracted and the sleeve disengaged at the end of the depositing cycle.
US07937897B2
The present invention proposes a dome-shaped shelter that has a seismic-isolation structure so as to reduce the shock effects of earthquakes and that is easy to construct. The dome-shaped shelter of the present invention is provided with (1) a dome affixed to a bottom board, and formed so as to surround an inside space with a floor, adjoining segments that form a wall, and adjoining segments that form a ceiling, all of which are made of expanded polystyrene, and (2) as an appropriate place for the dome, an improved ground that consists of a circular hole that is dug in ground to a predetermined depth and then packed with identical spheres. Said dome is slidably placed on said improved ground. The spheres of said improved ground are preferably cobblestones or made of hard rubber.
US07937895B2
An air chamber for the housing of air handling components including an interior shell surrounded by an exterior shell, the shells being separated by materials of relatively low thermal conductivity. The interior shell is peripherally mounted on an interior base. The interior base is disposed within an exterior base that supports the exterior shell. A structural thermal insulation material is disposed interstitially between the interior and exterior bases and the interior base and interior shell are thermally isolated from the exterior base and exterior shell.
US07937894B2
A vehicle door is disclosed that has a movable window and a window regulator including a regulator rail and a regulator slider slidably mounted on the regulator rail and engaging the window for movement between a closed position and a fully open position. The door also has a window down stop stabilizer assembly including a position detecting assembly that detects when the window is in the fully open position, a bumper movable between a first position spaced from the window and a second position in contact with the window, and a bumper actuator that moves the bumper into and out of contact with the window. When the window is in the fully open position, the bumper actuator will move the bumper into the second position and when the window is not in the fully open position, the bumper actuator will move the bumper into the first position.
US07937885B2
An animal deterring device has a carrier with first and second conductive traces that are separated by an arc suppressor. Most typically, the arc suppressor is configured to eliminate short circuiting of the device when exposed to fog, dew, rain, or animal excrements while at the same time to allow an animal to contact both conductive traces at the same time.
US07937883B2
A fishing rod carrier and holder device holds a plurality of fishing rods during fishing activity and houses the fishing rods when the device is being carried. The fishing rod carrier and holder device includes a support member having a spiked portion appointed for insertion into a ground surface. The support member includes a first horizontal plate having at least two rod holder apertures that define an aperture housing interrupted by an entry port. Additionally, the support member is provided with a second horizontal plate having at least two rod receiving cavities arranged in parallel longitudinal relation to the rod holder apertures of the first horizontal plate. The fishing rod carrier and holder device has at least one handle portion arranged to allow the fishing rod carrier and holder device to be carried with the fishing rods therein housed.
US07937881B2
A decoy, typically used for hunting fowl, having a hollow body including a head, a tail and a pair of feet. The decoy includes a pair of wings mounted to the body of the decoy for multi-axis movement. A drive mechanism typically including an electric motor and a power source is positioned within the hollow body. A pair of crank members connect to the electric motor and extend outwardly from the body. A pair of link members connect the wings to the crank members whereby rotation of the crank members enables cyclic movement defined by up/down and fore/aft motion of the wings.
US07937879B2
Rifle scopes with low-light visible elements include a scope body, a movable optical element defining an optical axis enclosed by the scope body, a turret operably connected to the optical element for adjusting the optical axis, and a low-light visible element attached to the turret such that the rotational position of the turret can be determined by viewing the low-light visible element. A tactile indicator may be attached to the turret such that the rotational position of the turret can be determined by touch. A plurality of indicia may be attached to the perimeter of the turret such that the rotational position of the turret can be determined by viewing the indicia. At least one of the indicia may be visible in low-light conditions.
US07937875B1
An adjustable firearm grip which is adaptable for use on a wide range of firearm types and barrel sizes. The adjustable firearm grip generally includes a handgrip including an upper opening and a lower opening. A passageway extends from the upper opening to the lower opening and includes a connector slidably positioned therein. A strap is provided for extending around a firearm, wherein both ends of the strap are each connected to the connector and the strap extends upwardly from the upper opening of the handgrip. A strap bolt and adjustment knob are threadably attached to the connector. The adjustable firearm grip may be attached to a firearm by placing the strap around the firearm's barrel at any location and then turning the adjustment knob to tighten the strap for a firm fit.
US07937870B2
A firearm having a receiver defining a bore with the receiver extending along a longitudinal axis. The receiver defines an ejection port transverse to the longitudinal axis with the bore defining an inner surface. A bolt carrier is disposed in the bore and moves relative to the receiver along the longitudinal axis between a firing position and a rearward position with the bolt carrier defining at least one exhaust port transverse to the longitudinal axis. A shield defines an aperture aligned with the exhaust port for exhausting gases therethrough. The shield is longitudinally affixed to the bolt carrier and moves with the bolt carrier as a unit between the firing and rearward positions along the longitudinal axis with the shield blocking the ejection port when in the firing position and the shield sliding along the inner surface away from the ejection port when moving to the rearward position in conjunction with the bolt carrier.
US07937869B2
Muzzle jump of projectile-firing guns and weapons systems is significantly reduced by creating a momentum, rotating in the direction opposite to the rotational direction of the momentum causing muzzle jump by redirecting not a gas flow produced by a blast of ammunition but redirecting a projectile traveling through the barrel. The barrel is bent in such a way that curvature of the bend is convex in relation to the support of the gun. The plane of the curvature coincides with the plane of the momentum created by recoil of the gun. Since the projectile possesses significantly greater mass than escaping gases, the contra-momentum is greater than what could be achieved by redirecting a flow of escaping gases so it could be sufficient to completely negate momentum created by recoil force.
US07937866B1
The automobile display apparatus provides a triangular caution that easily attaches to and detaches from an automobile driven by a new driver. The apparatus, most importantly, attaches without damage to the auto but also insures that detachment is by choice only. The majority of the apparatus is fully flexible, thereby further improving adhesion. The inverted triangle is easily recognized as a cautionary symbol. Part of the reflective indicia is designed to progressively become a recognized symbol for a new driver so that the printed words may be omitted, by choice, in the future. Additionally, the indicia of the young person in the car serve the same purpose as an identifiable symbol to most motorists of a new or young driver. Identifying the driver as new encourages other motorists in the vicinity to be cautious and to also adapt a more courteous posture toward the new driver.
US07937865B2
A light emitting sign comprising a light emitting display surface including at least one phosphor, and at least one radiation source configured to irradiate the display surface with excitation energy such that the phosphor emits light of a selected color. The sign further comprises a filter which is substantially transparent to light emitted by the display surface, filtering other colors of light. The display surface may be configured into a shape of a character, a symbol, or a device. Alternatively, a mask having at least one window substantially transparent to the emitted light and/or at least one light blocking region may be provided in which the window and/or light blocking region define a character, a symbol, or a device.
US07937854B2
An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly including a midsole. A cavity is formed in the midsole and has a cavity wall, with a groove formed in the cavity wall. A membrane is received in the groove and extends across the cavity. An upper member is secured to an upper surface of the midsole, with a portion of the upper member extending across the cavity.
US07937850B2
Dried distiller's solubles is described. Methods for drying condensed distiller's solubles into dried distiller's solubles are presented. The methods may include introducing the condensed distiller's solubles into a drying gas stream and recovering dried distiller's solubles from the drying gas stream.
US07937849B2
A method for measuring concentricity of one cylindrical member arranged in a second cylindrical member includes the steps of inserting a tool in the second cylindrical member, moving a first set of elements carried by the tool into engagement with the inner surface of the bore, establishing a “zero” position for the first set of elements, measuring for each element the distance of movement from the “zero” position of that element to the position where that element engages the inner surface of the bore. The method further entails adjusting the position of first cylindrical member relative to the second member within a tolerance range based on the distances measured from the “zero” positions.
US07937846B2
An inclination position sensor where, on a substrate on which wires are formed, plural electrodes electrically connected to the wires are disposed, a conductive ball that can simultaneously contact at least two of the plural electrodes is disposed, an enclosure that covers the plural electrodes and the conductive ball is disposed, and a circular arc is formed in places of the electrodes that contact the conductive ball.
US07937836B2
A method of assembling a valve assembly for delivering a fluid from a fluid bag to an animal caging system for housing an animal can include coupling an upper member having a piercing member to a base having a base fluid channel. The method can also include disposing a stem member at least partially within the base fluid channel and disposing a sealing member in the base fluid channel. The sealing member preferably has a flow aperture and a sealing member bottom surface, and facilitates sealing of the flow apertures when the sealing member bottom surface abuts a top surface of the stem member. The method can further include disposing a spring element within the base fluid channel, wherein a portion of the spring element abuts the lower surface to apply a biasing force to the stem member.
US07937828B2
A method of manufacturing a wiring board including an insulating layer where a semiconductor chip is embedded includes: forming, on a supporting board, the insulating layer where the semiconductor chip is embedded and a wiring connected to the semiconductor chip; removing the supporting board by etching; and simultaneously forming first and second reinforcing layers so as to sandwich the insulating layer after removing the supporting board.
US07937823B2
The present invention provides a method for producing a stator assembly. The method initially includes providing an assembly mandrel having a generally cylindrical hub and a generally annular base circumscribing a terminal end portion of the hub. A first end ring and a stator shell are installed around the mandrel hub and onto the mandrel base. Thereafter, a plurality of poles are disposed on top of the first end ring and in a generally cylindrical pattern between the stator shell and the mandrel hub. A second end ring is disposed around the mandrel hub and on top of the plurality of poles. A plurality of stator shell tabs may then be bent in a radially inward direction to axially retain the first and second end rings.
US07937821B2
There is provided a blind rivet including an axially extending hollow tubular body having a tail end face at one end and a pre-formed radially enlarged flange at the other end, together with a mandrel having a stem which extends co-axially though the body and having enlarged head adjacent the tail end of the body, the stem having a weakened region immediately adjacent the head. There is also provided a method of fastening at least two workpieces using such a blind rivet, including providing the blind side of the workpieces with a countersunk region to accommodate the conically deformed tail end of the body after setting, substantially flush therewith.
US07937815B2
An apparatus for securing a trim cover to a foam pad includes a base and a platform coupled thereto that defines a working surface for supporting the foam pad thereon. A plurality of actuators project from the working surface. Each actuator is capable of movement away from and toward the working surface and includes a pair of retaining fingers capable of movement between an open and closed position. In use, the retaining fingers grasp a first connecting member on the trim cover and move the first connecting member toward the working surface as the actuators are moved toward the working surface so as to engage the first connecting member with a second connecting member in the foam pad thereby securing the trim cover to the foam pad.
US07937804B2
A drive belt shifting arrangement for a rotatable brush roller of an upright cleaner where the shifter has an idler pulley for arcuate movement within the loop of the belt between the roller and the motor occasioned by pedal actuation. The same pedal action by the user alternately cams the belt onto the idler pulley to discontinue roller rotation or to permit its movement back to the motor shaft to allow roller rotation.
US07937797B2
It is an object of the present invention to provide effective technique for a higher cleaning effect and higher operability of a cleaning element. Representative cleaning tool includes a cleaning element 110, the cleaning element 110 is provided with a fusion bonded part 114 having a curved portion 114a concaved to the holding space 118.
US07937796B2
The invention relates to a wiping mop comprising a mop head (1) provided with at least one cleaning body (2), wherein said mop head (1) is connected to a handle (3), the mop head (1) and a handle (3) comprise a circular foot pedal (4) for wringing the cleaning body (2) by means of a wringing system or a device and the pedal (4) is concentrically associated with the mop head (1) or concentrically encompasses the handle (3) on the side oriented to the mop head (1).
US07937795B2
A toothbrush includes a handle and a head. The head is in the form of a peripheral frame having an open central area. A plurality of cleaning element carrying support members are mounted across the frame over the open central area to form an open lattice pattern having through holes to facilitate the cleaning of the head. The cleaning elements are bristles laser welded to the support members.
US07937789B2
A cushion heated convectively using a positive temperature coefficient of resistance type resistive heating includes a mattress pad, seat or the like with a bottom surface secured around its perimeter to an air permeable top surface, forming a plenum and containing tubular spacer material or other air flow structure therein. The plenum is connected to a power unit housing a blower, a heating module and a controller unit. The heating module includes a PTC type heating element. A remote control is provided, and a foldable antenna attachable to the convective unit facilitates wireless communication with the controller unit. The user resting atop the cushion controls the blower and heating module to deliver air of a desired temperature and quantity to the cushion and through the top surface.
US07937788B2
A modular bed frame has ladder-like side frames with upper and lower side rails, and ladder-like end frames with upper and lower rails. The side and end frames telescopingly attach to the ends of upper and lower rounded corner rails. The insides of the side frames carry tubular upright fittings for increasing vertical rigidity. These fittings also provide upwardly opening tubular sleeves that receive right angle corner connectors on the ends of spaced apart and parallel horizontal slats that traverse the bed frame from end to end when assembled by a user. Separate upright rigid legs with feet on the bottom are slidably attached to downwardly opening tubular sleeves on the underside of the assembled frame structure to elevate the assembled bed foundation above the floor.
US07937787B2
A wall bed assembly including a wall cabinet and a bed frame. The bed frame is pivoted from a vertical, stored position within the wall cabinet to a horizontal position for use as a bed. The bed frame is connected to the wall cabinet with a pivot bracket secured to the bed frame which pivotally attaches to the lower end of a counterbalancing piston. The upper end of the counterbalancing piston is pivotally secured to a plate that attaches to the wall cabinet side panel. Additionally, the bed frame includes a pair of non-linear legs pivotally attached for supporting the frame in the horizontal position. The wall bed assembly also includes retractable magnets for securing the bed frame in the vertical position. A safety release position is also provided. A bed frame assembly for a customizable wall cabinet is also provided.
US07937783B2
A pedicure spa including a fluid retaining basin. An impeller operatively coupled to the basin. An enclosure removably coupled to the basin, the enclosure including an upper region and a lower region, and defining a plurality of orifices in the upper region and the lower region, with the enclosure configured to enclose the impeller and direct fluid flow towards a foot region of the basin defined between a wall of the basin and the lower region of the enclosure.
US07937781B1
A multi-function device for stoppering and cleaning sinks is provided. The device includes a sink stopper base, a handle, and a scoop extending from the base. The scoop has a curved body and two parallel opposing side edges and a lower edge extending between. Each side edge has an arcuate upper section having a curvature of a first radius, which terminates at the lower surface of the base. The upper curvature in combination with the linear lower section of the side edges facilitate the lower edge of the scoop to deflect without bending backwards when slid across a sink surface. The handle includes a cavity having a downwardly sloped region which provides the users with additional mechanical leverage and control when manipulating the device. In certain implementations, the device incorporates a two-piece design which allows the scooping member to be removed from the base when not in use.
US07937775B2
A surgical protective assembly having an air movement device and a head gear assembly carrying the air movement device. The head gear assembly includes an outer wall, an inner wall, a front end, a back end and a middle portion between the front end and the back end. The outer wall has an upper opening, the inner wall has an array of openings, and the inner and outer wall define a front opening at the front end. The head gear assembly has a passageway that fluidly connects together, the upper opening, the array and the front opening.
