Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of fabrication of a stimulation lead comprising a plurality of segmented electrodes for stimulation of tissue of a patient, the method comprises: providing an elongated, substantially cylindrical substrate, the substrate comprising a plurality of recesses defined in an outer surface of the substrate; coating the substrate with conductive material; patterning conductive material on the substrate to form a plurality of electrode surfaces for at least the plurality of segmented electrodes and a plurality of traces connected to the plurality of electrode surfaces, wherein each electrode surface and its corresponding trace are defined in the recesses on the outer surface of the substrate and are electrically isolated from other electrode surfaces and traces; providing insulative material over at least the plurality of traces; and electrically coupling the plurality of traces to conductive wires of a lead body.

Abstract: Disclosed is a flexible printed circuit, comprising a substrate, and a silver foil and a reinforcement plate attached on said substrate in order, wherein there is an ink layer between said silver foil and said reinforcement plate. According to the invention, by printing the ink onto the silver foil and then attaching the reinforcement plate, especially printing the ink in the form of a dot, strip or mesh, the total thickness of the flexible printed circuit will not increase while the surface roughness of the silver foil increases, resulting in increase of adhesion of the reinforcement plate. This strengthens the attachment between the reinforcement plate and the silver foil, meeting the requirement of peeling-resistant strength between the reinforcement plate and the silver foil.

Abstract: A methodology for connecting device components with circuitry located at different levels and orientations relative to one another is described. First circuitry can be located on a multi-plane rigid circuit board where the multi-plane rigid circuit board can include at least one flexible member sharing a common substrate with the multi-plane rigid circuit board that extends from a body portion of the multi-plane rigid circuit board. The flexible member can include traces used to convey power and/or data and an interface coupled to the power and/or data traces. The flexible member can be deflected or twisted to connect first circuitry on the body portion of the multi-plane rigid circuit board to second circuitry associated with another device component.

Abstract: A method of preparing wireless communication chips for later processing includes receiving a carrier tape that is carrying a wireless communication chip positioned inside a container on the carrier tape and beneath a protective adhesive. The protective adhesive is stripped from the carrier tape. Using an apparatus having a first roller, the carrier tape is passed over the first roller, and the wireless communication chip is forced into contact with an adhesive tape for later processing. Also disclosed is a system for preparing wireless communication chips for later processing.

Abstract: Compact ASIC, chip-on-board, flip-chip, interposer, and related packaging techniques are incorporated to minimize the footprint of optoelectronic interconnect devices, including the Optical Data Pipe. In addition, ruggedized packaging techniques are incorporated to increase the durability and application space for optoelectronic interconnect devices, including an Optical Data Pipe.

Abstract: A method for forming an embedded circuit is disclosed. First, a substrate including a dielectric layer is provided. Second, the dielectric layer is entirely covered by a dummy layer. Then, the dummy layer is patterned and a trench is formed in the dielectric layer at the same time. Later, a seed layer is formed to entirely cover the dummy layer and the trench. Next, the dummy layer is removed and the seed layer covering the dummy layer is removed, too. Afterwards, a metal layer is filled in the trench to form an embedded circuit embedded in the dielectric layer.

Abstract: A process of forming an electronic device including forming a first ultraviolet (“UV”) blocking layer over a conductive feature, wherein the first UV blocking layer lies within 90 nm of the conductive structure; forming a first insulating layer over the first UV blocking layer; and patterning the first insulating layer and the first UV blocking layer to form a first opening extending to the conductive feature, wherein during the process, the first UV blocking layer is exposed to UV radiation.

Abstract: A photosensitive conductive film 10 according to the invention includes a support film 1, a conductive layer 2 containing conductive fiber formed on the support film 1, and a photosensitive resin layer 3 formed on the conductive layer 2.

Abstract: Coaxial connectors include a connector body and an inner contact post. A compression sleeve is also provided that is configured to impart a generally circumferential compressive force to secure one or more elements of a coaxial cable between the connector body and the inner contact post when the compression sleeve is in a seated position. The compression sleeve or the connector body includes a first disengagement mechanism that is configured to assist moving the compression sleeve from the seated position to an unseated position in which at least some of the circumferential compressive force is eliminated.

Abstract: A method of producing a land grid array (LGA) interposer structure includes mounting at least one interposer on a first surface of an electrically insulating carrier plane. The interposer selectively having a hemi-toroidal, conical, dome-shaped conic section, generally cylindrical or hemi-spherical configuration in transverse cross-section and being constituted of a dielectric elastomeric material. The method includes positioning a plurality of electrically-conductive elements about the surface of the hemi-toroidal interposer that extend radially inwardly and downwardly from an uppermost end thereof. The method further includes mounting said at least one component comprising at least one hemi-toroidal interposer mounted on said opposite side of said carrier plane.

Abstract: A positioning system used in assembling a scroll-type fluid machine exerts a horizontal thrust on a stationary scroll in a direction opposite to a direction in which an eccentric shaft end portion formed at one end of a rotary shaft is oriented while turning the rotary shaft, and determines an orbital path of the stationary scroll by measuring horizontal displacements thereof. While exerting the horizontal thrust, the positioning system incrementally presses the stationary scroll against a guide frame until a stable orbital path of the stationary scroll is obtained. When the orbital path is judged to be stable, the positioning system determines a fixing point on which the stationary scroll should be fixedly centered with respect to the guide frame, so that a scroll wrap of the stationary scroll and a scroll wrap of an orbiting scroll are correctly intermeshed, forming a series of pockets therebetween.

Abstract: In the manufacture of integrally designed rotor wheels (BLISKs), the natural frequency of each blade is measured after forming by conventional shaping methods and the respective blade mass and its divergence from the smallest blade mass is calculated therefrom. The mass of each blade exceeding the smallest blade mass is removed by means of an etchant, so that all blades have essentially corresponding thickness, chord length, mass and natural frequency and are evenly loaded in operation. BLISKs manufactured in this way feature a long service life.

Abstract: A multi segment wind turbine blade comprises at least two blade segments. A first blade segment comprises an outer skin, a bulkhead, and first alignment brackets removably coupled to the outer skin of the first blade segment. A first portion of a flange of the bulkhead is bonded to the first blade segment and a second portion of the flange of the bulkhead projects out from the first blade segment. A second blade segment comprises an outer skin and second alignment brackets removably coupled to the outer skin of the first blade segment. The first and second alignment brackets are alignable upon the outer side of the second blade segment being inserted over the second portion of the flange of the bulkhead.

Abstract: A method of producing a plurality of effusion holes in a wall of a combustor of a gas turbine engine comprises: determining a hole pattern definition which provides a functional relationship of the spacing between each adjacent hole within the row of holes; using the hole pattern definition to identify individual positions of the effusion holes to be produced; and using a hole producing system to produce the effusion holes at the identified positions.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a liquid ejecting head is disclosed. The head includes first and second supply members forming parts of a liquid supply passage. The liquid ejecting head includes a filter disposed between the first and second supply members so as to cross the liquid supply passage, and an integrally molded member fixing the first and second supply members by a resin in a state where the filter is nipped between the first and second supply members. The method includes: disposing the filter in one of the first and second supply members; nipping the filter by the first and second supply members in a state where the filter is sucked, adsorbed, and positioned via a suction hole of the first or second supply member; and forming the integrally molded member in the state where the filter is nipped between the first and second supply members.

Abstract: A continuously variable transmission has a number of tiltable ball-leg assemblies configured angularly about a longitudinal axis. Each ball-leg assembly is in contact with, and guided through a tilting motion by an axially translating shift cam having a convex shape. The convex shape of the shift cam can have a profile defined by a set of parametric equations. The profile of the shift cam can vary according to the location of the contact point between an idler and the ball-leg assembly as well as the amount of relative axial motion between the ball-leg assembly and the idler. The profile of the shift cam can be configured to control the axial translation of the idler relative to the change in tilt angle of the ball-leg assembly. A roll-slide factor can be used to characterize the axial translation of the idler relative to the tilt angle of the ball-leg assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a new improved large planetary gear system used on the input stage of wind turbine power generators. This improved planetary gear system reduces or eliminates lubricant debris traditionally generated from the gear teeth, thereby eliminating an initiating source for bearing failure. To achieve these results, some and preferably all of the gear teeth within the planetary gear system are superfinished using chemically accelerated vibratory finishing to a surface roughness of approximately 0.25 micron or less. Several objects and advantages of the invention are to provide a gearbox with reduced metal debris, improved bearing life, reduced wear, reduced vibro-frictional noise, improved contact fatigue, improved fretting resistance, improved lubrication, to simplify the run-in process, and to enhance the durability and efficiency of the gearbox.

Abstract: A method and system for producing rolls for electrophotography are provided. The rolls can be rotated and shifted laterally during an oxidative baking process to produce finished rolls having improved electrical and printing characteristics. The oxidation of the rolls may be controlled to provide a corresponding increase in surface electrical resistance to within plus or minus 25 microns of a selected roll thickness.

Abstract: A decorative article such as a bracelet is formed from one or more elastomeric cords and one or more braiding cords. Generally, the elastomeric cords provide a structure around which one or more braiding cords may by arranged, and upon which one or more decorative elements may be threaded. The elastomeric cords allow decorative elements, such as buttons, to be secured to the top surface of a decorative bracelet. In addition, the elastomeric cords allow the bracelet to have a more customized fit and increased durability. The braiding cords are woven around the elastomeric cords, such as in knots. A clasp may be formed from the elastomeric cords. The clasp may accept one or more decorative elements to secure the bracelet in a loop configuration.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for manufacturing a window covering 50 for an architectural opening. The apparatus includes a support structure handling assembly 92, an operating element handling assembly 94, and a vane handling assembly 96. The handling assemblies process the respective materials to an assembly station 100 to attach one portion of a vane 54 to the operating elements 56, and another portion of the vane 54 to the support structure 52, allowing movement of one portion of the vane 54 relative to other portion of the vane.

Abstract: A method is provided for assembling a vehicle frame from hydro-formed tubular metal components. Each hydro-formed component has a surface feature that is complementary to a surface feature on an adjacent component. The complementary surface features allow the hydro-formed components to be interlocked together. The components are permanently joined by a plurality of welds. A front hoop, a rear hoop and right and left side hoops may be assembled and joined together to form the passenger compartment portion of the vehicle frame.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a mobile platform component that may involve attaching only a single rail to the mobile platform component, and positioning a carriage system having a main carriage and a secondary carriage on the rail. The main carriage may be positioned along a first axis of movement on the rail. The secondary carriage may be positioned along a second axis of movement perpendicular to the first axis of movement on the main carriage. The main carriage may be releasably secured to the secondary carriage, and the carriage system may be releasably secured to the mobile platform component.

Abstract: A method for making a decorative polymer panel assembly for insertion into an opening of a door or window. The method can include forming a polymer grille by cutting a design into a polymer with a low-moisture content of no more than five wt %. The polymer grille can have a frame portion and a design portion. A seal can be contiguously disposed about a perimeter of the frame portion. A grille assembly can be formed by disposing a translucent panel on each side of the seal, forming an air space with the polymer grille disposed within the air space. The grille assembly can be pressed and heated to form a heat formed seal between the seal, the polymer grille, and each translucent panel. The grille assembly can then be cooled to an ambient temperature, forming the decorative polymer panel assembly.

Abstract: A method for making a door with a decorative polymer panel assembly. The method can include forming a polymer grille by cutting a design into a polymer with a low-moisture content. The polymer grille can have a frame portion and a design portion. A seal can be contiguously disposed about a perimeter of the frame portion. A grille assembly can be formed by disposing a translucent panel on each side of the seal, forming an air space with the polymer grille disposed within the air space. The grille assembly can be pressed, heated and cooled, forming the decorative polymer panel assembly. The decorative polymer panel assembly can be disposed within an opening of a door, and the door can be disposed within an opening of a structure.

Abstract: A folding knife incorporates an opening assist mechanism that functions to drive the blade from the closed to the open position. A pair of torsion springs held axially on the blade axis pin and within a pair of bushings are stationary relative to the knife handle. One leg of each spring is fixed to a bushing. The opposite leg of the spring rides in a pocket formed in the surface on the blade axially around the opening through which the blade axis pin is inserted. As the blade rotates from the closed position toward the open position, the legs of the springs rotate through and cooperate with structures formed on the bushings to transfer the spring pressure instantly to the blade to drive the blade open.

Abstract: A scraper includes a shell, a first controlling mechanism moveably installed within the shell for carrying a razor. The first controlling mechanism is moveable between a first position that the razor is exposed outside the shell and a second position that the razor is concealed in the shell. The scraper also includes a second controlling mechanism being independent of the first controlling mechanism and being utilized to selectively lock the razor therein. The razor is adapted to be removed from the first controlling mechanism when the second controlling mechanism is in an unlocked position. In addition, the scraper includes a compartment defined in the shell for storing unused razor(s).

Abstract: A device for cutting media is provided. The device includes a cover having a sidewall extending therefrom; a guide disposed substantially beneath the cover and comprising a blade; an actuating mechanism disposed in at least one of the cover and the guide; and an actuating wall disposed between the cover and the guide. Engagement of the actuating mechanism creates a cutting action between the blade and the actuating wall.

Abstract: An archery sight can include a scope with a Venturi-like inner opening, smaller in diameter at a narrow position and increasing in diameter toward each end, to provide a circular field of view through a range of off-axis angles. Archery sights with pins, such as extending into a scope, can include sight pin components that include bodies, tube-like parts extending to sight pin ends, optical fibers in the bodies and tube-like parts, and flexible, light-transmissive tubing that engages the bodies and surrounds the fibers along most of their exterior length. Each tube-like part can be attached to its body by inserting it into a portion of the body that surrounds it and then bending the portion of the body to produce one or more bends or kinks but without reducing inside diameter, so that a fiber can then be threaded through the tube-like part.

Abstract: A laser device, including a cradle with a laser unit exiting from this, the cradle being connected to a base element, relative to which the cradle can be adjusted in terms of inclination by at least one actuating drive. In order to achieve a secure mounting of the cradle for the laser unit with simple structural means, while at the same time eliminating any play between the mutually tilting parts, it is proposed that the cradle be connected to the base element, first, by a solid joint, and secondly by two adjusting drives, wherein the adjusting drives are arranged with respect to the solid joint so that the lines of connection between lengthwise axis of the solid joint and the adjusting drives subtend a right angle.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments include a portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machine including a manually positionable articulated arm portion having opposed first and second ends, the arm portion including a plurality of connected arm segments, each of the arm segments including at least one position transducer for producing position signals, a measurement device attached to the first end of the articulated arm coordinate measuring machine, an electronic circuit for receiving the position signals from the transducers and for providing data corresponding to a position of the measurement device, a base coupled to the second end, an upper mount portion disposed on the base, a lower mount portion fixed to a mounting structure and configured to repeatably connect to the upper mount portion and an electronic identification system configured to send identifier information identifying the lower mount portion to the electronic circuit.

Abstract: A squareness testing instrument (1, 100, 200) has one or more pairs of arms (2,3, 122,123), such as a one or more pairs of slats or rods, pivotally interconnected using suitable fasteners (4). The one or more pairs of arms are shaped such that they can fit substantially squarely into a corresponding imaginary rectangle (6A, 6B, 106, 206) with at least some arm ends (8, 108, 128, 208) in contact with sides thereof irrespective of the relative pivotal positioning of the arms. The instrument is positionable inside a frame type structure (14, 114) and pivotable apart to try and bring at least some of the arm ends in contact with sides (18, 19, 118, 119) of the structure to test at least one of the squareness and parallelism thereof.

Abstract: Device and method for lyophilizing a substance within the device and storing therein the lyophilized substance. The device defines a chamber for receiving therein the substance to be lyophilized, a penetrable and resealable portion of the device is penetrable or pierceable by a needle for filling the device with the substance, and a resulting hole therein is resealable by transmitting radiation from a radiation source thereon. A filter is connectable in fluid communication between an interior and exterior of the chamber for permitting fluid to flow therethrough in a direction from the interior to the exterior of the chamber, and for substantially preventing contaminants from flowing therethrough in a direction from the exterior to the interior of the chamber.

Abstract: An outsole with a configuration of protrusions that allows attachment of a gaiter. The protrusions may be similar to conventional lugs and perform ordinary lug functions or they may be highly specialized protrusions dedicated to attachment of a gaiter. Attachment is accomplished by jamming an expanded end of a gaiter cord amongst specialized surfaces on protrusions. Typically a gaiter cord first passes between protrusions typically on either the outboard side of footwear, or at the heel. Thereafter, the gaiter cord passes through a narrow slot and then enters a space wide enough for the expanded end. Tensioning of the gaiter cord further jams the expanded end of the cord in the outsole; thereby attaching the gaiter to the outsole.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an article of open-toe footwear including a sole member and a modular retaining system that allows a user to affect the appearance and function of the article of footwear. The modular retaining system includes a strap member and a plurality of coupling members. The strap member extends from an upper surface of the sole member over a corresponding user's foot between various recesses located on the surface of the sole member. The end regions of the strap member are releasably coupled with the sole member at the recesses via a releasable engagement with coupler members oppositely oriented within the recesses from a lower surface of the sole member. The releasable engagement between the strap member and the coupling members may utilize a threaded coupling configuration in which a male portion of the coupler member is threadably coupled within a corresponding female portion of the end region.

Abstract: A footwear construction including an upper, a midsole including a midsole flange, and an outsole shell including an outsole flange. The flanges can project outwardly, away from the upper in the forefoot portion. The flanges can be joined with a direct attach bond and a lock stitch. The flanges can each terminate short of the heel portion. The lock stitch can terminate short of the heel portion, and can be visible above and below the joined flanges. The midsole can include a fully exposed and viewable portion in the heel portion of the footwear. The midsole can include a heel cup integrally formed with the midsole flange. A method for constructing the footwear includes direct attaching a midsole to an upper and an outsole including an outsole flange. The midsole can form with a midsole flange, and the midsole flange and outsole flange can be stitched together with a lock stitch.

Abstract: A sole structure of a sports shoe includes an outsole and an intermediate sole having a number of portions that is flexible and supports the foot during running. The intermediate sole includes a flexible body element extending along the entire length of the shoe, and a flexible heel absorption element extending to the heel area, and a support element fitted between them extending from the heel area to the ball area which is of a less flexible material than the body element or the heel absorption element. The support element includes a substantially plate-like heel portion and a shaped front portion, which are separated from each other by a substantially cross-directional support ridge protruding from the lower surface of the support element. The intermediate sole also includes an hourglass-shaped ball absorption element, a carbon fiber plate increasing the torsional rigidity of the support element and an arch support.

Abstract: An application for a pivoting sole for use in an energy-return shoe system includes a shoe portion with a bottom surface. An upper toe sole is affixed to the toe area of the bottom surface and an upper heel sole is affixed to a heel area of the bottom surface. The upper heel sole is pivotally connected to the upper toe sole.

Abstract: A snowshoe of molded plastic material has a tail section with greater flexibility than the main body section, thereby allowing the tail to give and deform as the snowshoe tail is engaged against the terrain during the gait of the user. At the same time, the tail is stiff enough to provide flotation needed when the full weight of the user is on one snowshoe fully engaged against terrain, such as soft snow.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method of soil working is provided for performing one or more of soil fracture, soil excavation and soil treatment. The method comprises the steps of: supplying a source of pressurized gas; supplying a source of fluidized material; positioning a nozzle adjacent the soil; directing a stream of the pressurized gas through the nozzle at the soil being worked; and entraining a stream of fluidized material in the gas stream prior to the stream reaching the soil.

Abstract: A decal plate assembly for a motocross motorcycle includes an underlying base plate such as a number plate that is mounted to the vehicle. A decal having printed indicia thereon is attached to the base plate via adhesive or being integrally molded into the base plate. Additionally, the transparent cover plate at least partially covers a portion of the decal and the underlying base plate to prevent wear of the decal. This is particular applicable to high wear regions such as in the boot area of the motocross motorcycle where decals are typically subject to high wear.

Abstract: A label assembly that includes a face sheet with at least one label shape defined by one or more tearable lines of separation, a back sheet adjacent to the face sheet, and an adhesive material disposed between the face sheet and the back sheet. The back sheet has a multi-portion removable panel disposed over the label shape adhesive material and a registration structure in one of the portions of the removable panel and aligned with an other portion and the label shape. The registration structure is raised or raisable above the back sheet to allow an object for labeling to be positioned against the registration structure for proper alignment with a first portion of the label.

Abstract: A method for processing a separation and rupture portion of a display label is a method for forming, on the display label attached to an attachment target object, the separation and rupture portion for rupturing the display label upon separation of the display label from the attachment target object. This method includes attaching, to the attachment target object, the display label having a back side on which an adhesive layer is formed, and then forming a slit serving as the separation and rupture portion on the display label.

Abstract: A marketing sign is constructed of a sheet material. The sheet material includes a free portion, a base portion and a connecting portion that couples the base portion to the free portion. The base portion is configured to engage with a product display structure, which has a price holder. The connecting portion is defined between a first connecting bend line spaced apart from a second connecting bend line by a distance. The distance substantially corresponds with an edge thickness of the price holder.

Abstract: A display stand for a laptop computer has an L-shaped spine supporting the computer. A T-shaped upper advertising substrate holder can be slid into the vertical leg of the spine in one of multiple orientations, i.e., with the cross-bar of the T horizontal to the ground or vertical to the ground on either the left side or right side of the computer, as point of sale (POS) physical constraints demand. In all orientations of the upper holder, an upper advertising substrate is supported by the upper holder in a vertical orientation. A T-shaped lower advertising substrate holder can be slid into the horizontal leg of the spine to support a lower advertising substrate in a horizontal orientation.

Abstract: Portable firearms having identification marks and methods of making the same are disclosed. An example firearm includes a first identification number visibly located on the firearm; and a second, hidden or disguised identification number associated with the first identification number to facilitate identifying the firearm if the first identification number is destroyed, changed, or damaged.

Abstract: A sighting assembly for a firearm includes a scope and a mounting clamp. The mounting clamp includes a ring cap and a ring base that cooperate to surround and hold the scope. The ring cap and ring base securely grip the scope without damaging the scope. Clamping forces are generally tangent to the scope to minimize or limit the formation of dents, grooves, or other types of marring and/or damage to optics or the body of the scope.

Abstract: A large animal trap including a hollow cylindrical shell having a front end opening. A vertically slidable trap door is positioned to close the front end opening. A trigger mechanism associated with the trap door is provided so that when a bear seizes the bait located within the cylindrical shell, the trigger will allow the trap door to fall closing the front end opening. This animal trap is further provided with a pneumatic braking assembly which stops downward movement of the trap door when an object is within the front end opening. The large animal trap is further provided with structure to allow a user to raise the trap door from a location away from the trap.

Abstract: A spectrally selective grow tube or tree shelter that improves the establishment of woody plant forms by reduction and/or elimination of certain biotic and abiotic stress factors. The grow tube may provide an enhanced micro climate that is humid and rich in CO2 and promotes photosynthesis by selectively propagating photosynthetically active radiation. In addition to providing a physical barrier to wind and herbivores, certain embodiments of the grow tube can also provide protection from chemical sprays while permitting ventilation of the grow tube. Various embodiments of the spectrally selective grow tube may comprise separate interior and exterior members for enhancement of the interior and exterior surface functions and that may be co-extruded. The interior member may be dyed or pigmented to selectively transmit wavelengths of the visible spectrum known to promote photosynthesis, such as red light and/or blue light.

Abstract: An air rooting shell comprises a first shell half mateable with a second shell half to form a shell for enclosing around a branch. The shell comprises a reservoir for containing planting medium and an upper lipped opening that receives the branch and collects and funnels water to the reservoir. A bottom opening is provided through which the lower portion of the branch may exit. Side openings on the shell may be used to enclose a branch in a horizontal orientation, while the upper lipped opening remains vertically oriented to receive water.

Abstract: The present invention relates, in general, to articles that are packaged in a compressed state relative to an uncompressed fully articulated state and methods of making and using same. In a specific embodiment, but not to be considered as limiting, the articles so packaged in a compressed state are plant covers that are either substantially rigid and/or substantially flexible.