Abstract: An electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery and method of forming the same, the electrode material including composite particles, each composite particle including: a primary particle including an electrochemically active material; and an envelope disposed on the surface of the primary particle. The envelope includes turbostratic carbon having a Raman spectrum having: a D band having a peak intensity (ID) at wave number between 1330 cm-1 and 1360 cm-1; a G band having a peak intensity (IG) at wave number between 1530 cm-1 and 1580 cm-1; and a 2D band having a peak intensity (I2D) at wave number between 2650 cm-1 and 2750 cm-1. In one embodiment, a ratio of ID/IG ranges from greater than zero to about 1.1, and a ratio of I2D/IG ranges from about 0.4 to about 2.

Abstract: A method for reducing commutation-related acoustic noise in a fan system is provided. A constant frequency periodic signal is generated and a fan commutation event is synchronized with a zero level value of the constant frequency periodic signal. A system for controlling a direct current fan is provided. The system comprises a signal generator adapted to produce a periodic signal of a constant frequency and a phase-locked loop. A zero level value of the periodic signal is synchronized with a commutation event of the fan.

Abstract: A socket assembly for a trailer hitch includes a ball clamp member which has lateral arms or wings that limit the pivotal movement of the ball clamp member thereby improving the opportunity for the ball to properly fit in and totally seat within the cavity defined within the socket assembly.

Abstract: An improved bean cutting knife is described which includes a replaceable cutting blade. The knife support includes a recessed area along its working edge. The cutting blade fits into the recessed area and is detachably secured with threaded fasteners, for example. When the cutting blade becomes worn it can be removed and then replaced with a new cutting blade.