Patents Issued in February 6, 2014
  • Publication number: 20140033638
    Abstract: A method of constructing a wall to meet an applicable building code, and a wall created by this method. The method may include placing insulating concrete forms, having a cavity, where the wall is to be constructed; placing a limited quantity of metal reinforcement steel within the cavity, such that the limited quantity of reinforcing steel is insufficient to meet the applicable building code; and pouring a mix of aggregate, sand, cement, fly ash, and mineral fibers into the cavity; and allowing the mix to cure, thereby meeting the applicable building code without additional metal reinforcement. The mix may between 45 and 50% stone, between 30 and 35% sand, between 10 and 12% Portland cement, between 5 and 8% fly ash, between 1 and 2% mineral fibers, and between 0 and 1% admixtures by weight. The mix may contain mineral fibers of different grades and/or dimensions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: CEMEX RESEARCH GROUP AG
    Inventors: Bryan Goerger, Marcelo Ortiz, Francisco Uzcategui, Patrick Thiel
  • Publication number: 20140033639
    Abstract: A method to provide in a wall of a building structure a low-profile secure canine access comprises the steps of forming an access opening through the wall, mounting a door structure in the wall, and installing a supplemental security member over the door structure to fully enclose the door structure. A door is mounted in the security member. A low profile locking system secures the door in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Michael A. Walther
  • Publication number: 20140033640
    Abstract: A tile levelling device includes a base portion having an upper surface and an opposing lower surface, one or more recesses being formed in the upper surface. The tile levelling device also includes a stem frangibly connected to the base portion at or near a low point of said recess, the stem including a hole adapted to receive a wedge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Gorton
  • Publication number: 20140033641
    Abstract: The auxiliary device (1) for the installation of plate-shaped products (M) for covering floors and/or walls includes: a first element (2) having: a substantially flat base body (3) for supporting two or more adjacent plate-shaped products (M) and a gripping body (4) which is associated substantially at right angles with the base body (3), the base body (3) being suited to support the plate-shaped products (M) from opposite sides of the gripping body (4); a second element (6) associable with the gripping body (4) for fastening the plate-shaped products (M) between the base body (3) and the second element (6) to define the coplanarity of the plate-shaped products (M); and screw connection elements (7) suited to allow the coupling by screwing of the second element (6) on the first element (2) around a rotation axis (R) substantially at right angles to the base body (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: S.I.R.I S.R.L.
    Inventor: Franco TREVISI
  • Publication number: 20140033642
    Abstract: A panelized, reusable barrier system allowing for containment of construction areas in hospitals and other clean room environments. Panels are adjustable in height from 92? to 120?. Panels are available in 12?, 24?, 36? and 48? widths. Door panels consist of a 44? wide door mounted in a 48? wide panel. Custom clips secure the top of the panels to suspended ceiling grid. Custom camlock fasteners fasten the panels to each other. Hinged corner posts allow for wall transitions ranging from 10° to 90°. Porting options are available to allow for HEPA filtered air discharge and for monitoring differential air pressure between the work area and the public area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Dana Francis Foran
  • Publication number: 20140033643
    Abstract: A concrete form is disclosed and can include an elongated body having a length and a width. A cross-section of the elongated body perpendicular to the length can include a closed, box-shaped main body having an upper wall, a lower wall opposite the upper wall, a first sidewall extending between and connecting the upper wall and the lower wall, and a second sidewall opposite the first sidewall and extending between and connecting the upper wall and the lower wall. A lower extension can extend from the main body portion in a first direction beyond the lower wall and an upper extension can extend from the main body portion in a second direction opposite the first direction beyond the upper wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Joshua Fairley, Joseph N. Bondi, Steve B. Gross
  • Publication number: 20140033644
    Abstract: A medicine inspection device includes an inspection unit for inspecting a medicine disposed on the inspection unit; a vibrator to impart vibration to the medicine disposed on the inspection unit; and a shooting means capable of photographing the medicine disposed on said inspection unit. The medicine inspection device further includes a medicine information detector capable of detecting at least the quantity or type of the medicine based on an image obtained by the shooting means; and a distribution detector configured to detect a distribution of the medicine on the inspection unit based on the image obtained by said shooting means. The inspection unit includes a plurality of inspection areas where the vibrator independently provides vibration to each inspection area. The medicine inspection device is characterized by operating the vibrator so as to provide vibration in the inspection areas chosen based on the detection result of the distribution detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: YUYAMA MFG. Co., LTD
    Inventors: Hirokazu Amano, Koji Ito, Hiromichi Tsuda, Yasuyuki Yoshikawa, Keigo Nakamura, Dai Shimizube
  • Publication number: 20140033645
    Abstract: An apparatus for inflating and sealing packing cushions utilizes a controller adapted for acquiring information from preconfigured film material and automatically setting one or more operation parameters suitable for inflating and sealing the film. The controller can avoid or limit the need for user input, thus simplifying use of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Free-Flow Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Daigle, Michael G. Kaminski, Rob Van Uijen, Vladimir Yampolsky
  • Publication number: 20140033646
    Abstract: Pivotable clipper assemblies for attaching closure clips to a product held in casing and/or netting include a retractable clipper mechanism having a clipper body configured to deliver clips to a clip window and attach the clips to the casing and/or netting; and a pair of clipper gathering plates attached to the clipper body so that the clipper gathering plates retract with the clipper mechanism, wherein, in operation, the clipper gathering plates gather casing and/or netting upstream of a product held therein prior to attachment of clips to the gathered casing and/or netting by the clipper mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Samuel D. Griggs, Dennis J. May, William M. Poteat, Derek L. Brown, David R. Gupton
  • Publication number: 20140033647
    Abstract: A packaging machine having a sealing member that acts on a product wrapped by a lower film and an upper film, and which seals or closes the films to each other around the product in order to vacuum-package said product between both films, and control means for causing the sealing member to move in order to package the product. The sealing member defines at least one inner space where the product to be vacuum-packaged is disposed wrapped at least partially by the two films. According to one implementation the sealing member includes at least one longitudinal first wall, a longitudinal second wall and a transverse wall between which the inner space is defined, and an unobstructed opening facing the transverse wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: ULMA Packaging Technological Center, S.COOP.
    Inventors: Eneko IZQUIERDO EREÑO, Nicolas ARREGI ARAMBARRI, Nerea ARBULU ORMAECHEA
  • Publication number: 20140033648
    Abstract: A method for producing a container intended to contain a substance to be dispensed by an airless pump, having an external body inside which a bag is provided formed of thermoplastic material, the bag presenting, at least at a connection surface between its neck and its lateral surface, controlled deformation zones arranged to guide the bag deformation in accordance with preferential directions. The invention also relates to a container formed by the described method and a bag with the aforedescribed characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: LUMSON S.p.A.
    Inventor: Matteo MORETTI
  • Publication number: 20140033649
    Abstract: Providing a packaging machine and a packaging method both of which are capable of packaging with an imperforate bag provided with no small apertures or no aerating part, can prevent contamination of foreign substances such as insects and can further prevent the packaging bags from being damaged or collapsed during storage in a piled state or transportation by execution of reliable deaeration. The packaging machine and a packaging method have a closing unit 4 which holds a vicinity of mouth a of a packaging bag A inserted with a deaeration nozzle held from opposed sides of the bag A, an airway securing unit, a shaping press unit and a temporary sealing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL PACKER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shinji Ishikawa, Shinya Ozeki
  • Publication number: 20140033650
    Abstract: An improved sealant packaging and method for use with sealing joints and cracks in pavement and parking lots is provided. Liquid sealant material is poured by volume into a container draped with a sheet. Container is cooled so that the sealant becomes a solid block, with the sheet adhered to the sides of the sealant block such that the sheet forms a container for the sealant. The sheet also acts a release liner for easily removing the sealant block from the container. Two or more contained blocks are stacked together, forming a package of two or more blocks self-sealed by sheets. When the package is placed in a melting kettle, heat migrates through the spaces between the individual sealant blocks and allows the smaller sealant blocks to melt quickly and evenly. Sheet and film melt with sealant material and are incorporated therein to form the final sealant product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas D. Splinter, Stephen Patrick Giersch
  • Publication number: 20140033651
    Abstract: A gifting system comprising: a gift bag; a pocket on the outer surface of the gift bag, the pocket with an opening on its top side; a card shell with a front face, an upper side, a bottom side, and a folding side; an insert, with a folding side, configured to nest inside the card shell; an attachment means configured to removeably attach the insert to the card shell; wherein the card shell with the insert attached inside of the card shell, is configured to slide into and out of the pocket. A method of using a gifting system, the method comprising: placing a gift into a gift bag; writing a note on an insert; sliding the card shell and insert into a pocket of the gift bag; and giving the gift and gift bag to a recipient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Katherine A. Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20140033652
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drive device and a method for reversibly linearly moving a clipping module of a clipping machine. The drive device comprises a piston/cylinder assembly including a first piston and a housing including a first cylinder portion in which the first piston is arranged, the housing is reversibly movable relative to the first piston, a second piston coaxially aligned to the first piston, and a third piston coaxially aligned to the first piston. The drive device further comprises four variable cylinder volumes, a first cylinder volume between the first piston and the first cylinder portion, a second cylinder volume, a third cylinder volume, and a fourth cylinder volume, wherein each cylinder volume is coupled to a pressure source for being varied in order to reversibly move the clipping module, between a release position and a discharge position of the clipping machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Poly-clip System GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Jörg Sames
  • Publication number: 20140033653
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sealing films. In one embodiment the sealing device comprises a horn and an anvil. The film has a standard portion and an increased portion. Increased energy is applied to the film in the increased portion compared to the energy applied to the standard portion. Such a method allows for sealing of varying number of layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: FRITO-LAY NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Pak Meng CHAM, Glenn T. JORDAN, IV, Austin KOZMAN, Sean FLOWERS, Matthew SHORT
  • Publication number: 20140033654
    Abstract: Methods of making non-durable self-supporting flexible containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Scott Kendyl STANLEY, Kenneth Stephen McGUIRE, Charles John BERG, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140033655
    Abstract: Methods of making non-durable self-supporting flexible containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Scott Kendyl STANLEY, Kenneth Stephen McGUIRE, Charles John BERG, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140033656
    Abstract: A wrapping apparatus, system, station and/or process is generally provided. As to the apparatus, it includes a wrap bar for engaging and directing a wrapper about the product, a wrap bar carrier from which the wrap bar extends, and a drive assembly operatively linked to the wrap bar carrier. The carrier block, which translatingly retains the carrier intermediate opposing end portions thereof, is adapted for driven rotation about a wrapping axis of the apparatus so as to thereby rotatingly drive the bar about the axis via rotation of the carrier. The drive assembly, which is operatively linked to the carrier, selectively translates the carrier in relation to the carrier block during driven rotation of the carrier such that a radial distance for the bar from the axis is thereby capable of selective establishment in furtherance of delimiting a wrap bar travel path commensurate with the product profile of the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: DOUGLAS MACHINE INC.
    Inventors: Daniel L. Floding, Richard W. Lukanen, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140033657
    Abstract: A machine for wrapping a load with a film made of synthetic plastics includes a first frame suitable for supporting second frame that rotatably supports around, and slidably parallel to, a wrapping axis at least one wrapping unit including a reel of the film and a roller assembly arranged for unwinding and prestretching the film. The second frame is slidably mounted on the first frame and is movable along an advancing direction that is transverse, and in particular orthogonal, to the wrapping axis. A conveyor is provided for moving the load along the advancing direction. The conveyor and the second frame are movable in a mutually coordinated manner to wrap the load with the film also while the load is moved along the advancing direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: AETNA GROUP S.P.A.
    Inventor: Mauro Cere'
  • Publication number: 20140033658
    Abstract: An exemplary aspect comprises a container apparatus comprising: (a) a housing forming a reservoir; (b) a cover configured to fit on the top of the housing, and comprising a first door; (c) a first divider having at least one point in contact with the inner surface of the housing; and (d) a second divider having at least one point in contact with the inner surface of the housing; wherein the first divider and the second divider divide the reservoir into three joined compartments: a first compartment between the first divider and an inner surface of the housing, a second compartment between the first divider and the second divider, and a third compartment between the second divider and an inner surface of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: QUIRKY, INC.
    Inventors: Jan Habraken, Aaron Saxton, Tim Connelly
  • Publication number: 20140033659
    Abstract: A packing insert for disc-shaped objects comprising a ring and a deformable contacting portion supported by the ring and extending from a circumference of the ring. The contacting portion can comprise one or more solid portions extending from the circumference. The solid portions can define a plurality of radially arranged members separated by a plurality of void regions, where the solid portions extending radially from a circumference of the ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Rolando Ochoa, Ismael Tamez, JR., Albert D. Escusa
  • Publication number: 20140033660
    Abstract: A packing box for packaging of playing cards has, in an assembled state, a shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with six faces including front and rear faces, right and left side faces, and top and bottom faces. The packing box includes cut lines in two locations at a predetermined interval in parallel with a longitudinal direction of the rectangular parallelepiped, and a central band in a portion defined by the cut lines provided in the two locations. The right and left side faces of the packing box can be removed along the cut lines such that side edges of the playing cards within the packing box are exposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: ANGEL PLAYING CARDS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yasushi SHIGETA
  • Publication number: 20140033661
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved shock absorbing, light-weight, thermally insulative orthotic pad designed for use in a pad and boot assembly for hoofed livestock. The pad is comprised of a mixture of small particles, preferably spheroids, and elastomeric materials. In a preferred embodiment, elastomeric material generally is more concentrated at the top portion of the pad, and particles dispersed in a matrix of elastomeric material concentrated at the bottom section of the pad. The particles have a lower density than the elastomeric materials and possess better thermally insulative properties, and in a particularly preferred embodiment, at least some of the particles are comprised of closed-cell polypropylene foam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Monty L. Ruetenik
  • Publication number: 20140033662
    Abstract: A cyclone has a cyclone body formed with a plurality of inlet ducts and an outlet. A first end of each of the inlet ducts is coupled to a downcomer and a second end of each of the inlet ducts is coupled to the cyclone body. The downcomer proximate the cyclone body is co-axial with and mounted to the cyclone body on a support. Each inlet duct exits the downcomer radially and enters the cyclone body tangentially.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: SIEMENS PLC
    Inventor: Ian Mervyn Craig
  • Publication number: 20140033663
    Abstract: This disclosure describes examples of a filter media for use in filter devices, e.g., pulse filter cartridges found in power generating systems. Embodiments of the filter media include a base media and a membrane, which partially covers one or both sides of the base media. In one embodiment, the membrane covers a membrane area of at least one side of the base media, wherein the membrane area is less than a total area of the side on which the membrane is disposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Etienne Rene Jarrier, Martin Gregory Hatfield, Paul Sherwood Bryant
  • Publication number: 20140033664
    Abstract: A filter element includes a single seamless media pack having first and second opposite ends and first and second lateral sides extending between the first and second ends. The media pack also has pleats extending between the first and second ends and a first cross-section defined between the first and second lateral sides. The first cross-section having at least one outward projection that defines an internal radius of at least ¼ inch wherein a plurality of pleats of the media pack are fanned around the internal radius. A first end cap is secured to the first end of the media pack while a second end cap secured to the second end of the media pack. Additionally, a frame member is secured to the first end cap, second end cap, the first lateral side, and the second lateral side. A pre-filter is usable with described filter arrangements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Handley, Dominique Renwart, Benjamin Nichols, Herman Vanormelingen, Jimmy Vanderlinden, Timothy Sporre
  • Publication number: 20140033665
    Abstract: A multiple layer HEPA filter media includes, in an exemplary embodiment, a first layer that includes a nonwoven synthetic fabric formed from a plurality of bicomponent synthetic fibers with a spunbond process, and having a bond area pattern of a plurality of substantially parallel discontinuous lines of bond area. The filter media also includes a second layer laminated onto the first layer. The second layer is formed from a micro-porous membrane. Further, the filter media includes a third layer laminated onto the second layer, with the third layer including a synthetic nonwoven fabric formed from a plurality of synthetic fibers. The synthetic fibers include at least two different synthetic fibers having different melting points. The third layer has a cover factor of less than seven millimeters. In addition, the multiple layer filter media further includes a plurality of corrugations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Alan Smithies, Vishal Bansal, Nusrat Farzana, Cynthia Polizzi
  • Publication number: 20140033666
    Abstract: A filter device comprises a filter element in a filter housing, wherein the filter housing is to be closed by a cover element. A friction section of the cover element, in an intermediate position between closed and open positions, is in friction contact with a friction member while in the closed position of the cover element the friction section is without friction contact with the friction member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: MANN+HUMMEL GMBH
    Inventors: Joerg Menssen, Karlheinz Muenkel
  • Publication number: 20140033667
    Abstract: A filter cartridge arrangement is provided which includes a media pack comprising Z-filter media, a preform and a housing seal member. Improvements in the preform and seal member are described which include: a single beveled surface of the seal member to facilitate installation; and, an inside region of the seal member having a tip adjacent in inwardly directed lip of the preform, to control flash during molding. A variety of media pack configurations and features are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Donaldson Company, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20140033668
    Abstract: Crankcase ventilation filter assemblies, components thereof, features thereof, and methods of assembly and use are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: DONALDSON COMPANY, INC
    Inventor: Christof Kleynen
  • Publication number: 20140033669
    Abstract: An electronic steering and control apparatus and related control methods for a pair of variable drive units. The variable drive units may be hydrostatic, continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), or other similar devices. The apparatus is shown in use with a vehicle that may include a mowing deck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Ivan E. Fox, Raymond Hauser, Christopher K. Wyatt
  • Publication number: 20140033670
    Abstract: Folding heads for corn-shelling machines and/or combine harvesters which include a central portion extending along a main transversal direction and two lateral portions aligned with the central portion in a working condition of the head are provided. Folding heads may include drive elements for moving the lateral portions so as to pass from the working configuration to a folded configuration wherein the lateral portions are at least partially folded and overlapping the central portion. Each lateral portion may be operatively connected to the central portion by connection elements which may include a relative arm which connects each lateral portion to the central portion, wherein the connection elements include a first hinge defining a first rotation axis parallel to a longitudinal direction of advancement of the head and a second hinge defining a second rotation axis, perpendicular to the first rotation axis. Methods of making and using folding heads are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Romano Cressoni
  • Publication number: 20140033671
    Abstract: Agricultural machine including a central frame and two work devices, the central frame being connectable to a tractor, and being provided with wheels, each work device being connected to the central frame by a first articulation and being able to be moved between a transport position and a work position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: KUHN S.A.
    Inventors: Cedric Halter, Joel Wilhelm
  • Publication number: 20140033672
    Abstract: In a sickle cutting apparatus including a row of stationary knife guards and a sickle bar with a row of blade sections for reciprocating movement mounted thereon, each of the blade sections is simply removable from the sickle bar for replacement by mounting a rear plate portion on the sickle bar where each of the rear plate portions has a pair of holes bolted to mating holes in the bar and each hole in the blade is connected to an associated slot extending rearwardly in the rear plate portion from the hole to a rear edge. In this way the blade section can be pulled forwardly by loosening the bolt and sliding the bolt along the slot until the blade is released. A circular counter-bore in the blade section receives a nut when tightened to hold the blade section in place. The system can be used with pointed guards or stub guards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Francois R. Talbot
  • Publication number: 20140033673
    Abstract: The apparatus for harvesting olives and similar products comprises a support body (2) suitable to be grasped; a shaker unit (3) comprising a containment box (7) suitable to be mounted at the top of the support body (2); at least one comb sector (6) shaping a support structure (9, 90, 99) provided with a plurality of teeth (10), carried mobile by the containment box (7); a motor member to actuate the comb sector (6) in a substantially swinging motion, a motor shaft (12) arranged substantially aligned to the longitudinal axis of the support body (2) and suitable to be actuated in a rotary motion by the motor member. The apparatus also comprises a first kinematic chain (14) actuated by the motor shaft (12), suitable to transmit a first rotary motion, and a second kinematic chain (15) also actuated by the motor shaft (12) and suitable to transmit a second motion of the substantially alternated type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Ermanno Minelli
  • Publication number: 20140033674
    Abstract: One exemplary process for manufacturing a surgical apparatus may include providing a flat, generally-planar strip of biocompatible material; cutting the strip to produce a feeder belt with at least one lateral edge, and staples affixed to the feeder belt in proximity to at least one lateral edge, where the staples and feeder belt are substantially aligned along a first plane; and bending at least one staple out of the first plane, while the feeder belt remains in the first plane. Another exemplary process for manufacturing a surgical apparatus may include providing a flat, generally-planar strip of biocompatible material; cutting that strip to produce a feeder belt with edges, and staples affixed to different edges of the feeder belt; and coining at least one staple after the cutting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Cardica, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan D. Knodel, Philipe R. Manoux
  • Publication number: 20140033675
    Abstract: An assembly including a protection device and an element of a turbine engine for protecting, for example, an oil tank including a magnetic particle detector, the protection device including a flexible protection blanket placed on and closed around the element for protecting and including eyelets that are engaged on fastener studs provided on the blanket or on the element for protecting. The protection device further includes at least one cable carrying an attachment mechanism for attaching to the fastener studs to prevent the studs being withdrawn from the eyelets in the blanket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: SNECMA
    Inventors: Philippe Fardel, Georges Cousseau, Denis Barthelemy, Joel Roudil
  • Publication number: 20140033676
    Abstract: A method of integrating a supplemental steam source into a combined cycle plant comprising a gas turbine engine, generator and heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) by providing a solar steam generation subsystem that captures and transfers heat using solar radiation to produce supplemental superheated steam; providing a steam turbine operatively connected to the gas turbine; and injecting a portion of the steam formed by solar radiation into one or more intermediate stages of the high pressure section of the steam turbine. The exemplary method uses steam produced by the HRSG (having one, two or three pressure levels and with or without reheat), as well as steam produced by a solar steam generation subsystem when the plant is operating at full capacity. Significantly, the throttle pressure of the high pressure steam turbine remains substantially the same when the solar steam generation is either active or inactive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Raymond PANG, Kamlesh Mundra, Nestor Hernandez Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20140033677
    Abstract: A vehicle propulsion system comprises a propellant source, a microwave energy source; an ionizer, a heater, and a propellant accelerator. The ionizer is configured for receiving propellant and for also receiving microwave energy from the microwave energy source so as to produce ionized propellant. The heater comprises a heater shell that defines a plasma heating cavity and is configured for receiving the ionized propellant from the ionizer. The heater shell is configured to transmit microwave energy received from the microwave energy source to the ionized propellant in the plasma heating cavity and to thereby facilitate absorption of microwave energy by the ionized propellant to produce heated ionized propellant. The propellant accelerator is configured for receiving the heated ionized propellant from the heater, accelerating the heated ionized propellant to produce accelerated propellant, and expelling the accelerated propellant in a desired direction to impose a reaction force (i.e.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: ESCAPE DYNAMICS, INC.
    Inventor: Dmitriy Tseliakhovich
  • Publication number: 20140033678
    Abstract: A method of correcting a soot mass estimate in a vehicle exhaust after-treatment device includes monitoring an exhaust gas pressure drop across a particulate filter included with the vehicle exhaust after-treatment device; determining an initial soot mass estimate from a monitored exhaust gas pressure drop; revising the initial soot mass estimate in view of a monitored engine speed, engine load, exhaust gas temperature, and NOx gas flow rate; and generating a particulate filter regeneration request if the revised soot mass estimate exceeds a threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Christopher C. Swoish, Douglas Christopher Sarsen, Christopher Whitt
  • Publication number: 20140033679
    Abstract: A method of correcting a soot mass estimate in a vehicle exhaust aftertreatment device includes monitoring an exhaust gas pressure drop across a particulate filter included with the vehicle exhaust aftertreatment device. Following the detection of a pressure drop, a controller may determine a soot mass estimate from the monitored pressure drop; determine an ash volume estimate representative of an amount of ash within the particulate filter; determine an ash correction factor from the soot mass estimate and the ash volume estimate; and calculate a corrected soot mass value by multiplying the ash correction factor with the soot mass estimate. If the corrected soot mass value exceeds a threshold, the controller may generate a corresponding particulate filter regeneration request.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Christopher Sarsen, CHRISTOPHER WHITT, CHRISTOPHER C. SWOISH, REBECCA J. DARR
  • Publication number: 20140033680
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a particulate filter of an exhaust aftertreatment device includes sensing a first pressure drop across the particulate filter at a first instant in time, and sensing a second pressure drop across the particulate filter at a second instant in time. A controller may then calculate a rate-of-change of the pressure drop between the first instant in time and the second instant in time while sensing a flow rate of an exhaust gas flowing through the exhaust aftertreatment device. Using the sensed exhaust flow rate, the controller may determine a rate-of-change threshold, and subsequently compare the calculated rate-of-change to the rate-of-change threshold. The method further includes updating a soot model using the sensed second pressure drop if the calculated rate-of-change is less than the rate-of-change threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Christopher C. Swoish, Christopher Whitt, Douglas Christopher Sarsen
  • Publication number: 20140033681
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reducing agent metering system for injection of a reducing agent into the exhaust gas flow of an internal combustion engine for selective catalytic reduction, with a delivery pump (2) by means of which the reducing agent is delivered from a reducing agent tank (1) via a delivery line (3) and is introduced into the exhaust gas flow of the internal combustion engine via at least one nozzle (7), a metering chamber (4) being integrated into the delivery line (3) and being divided into two separate volumes (10, 20) by means of a position-variable element (5), each of the two volumes (10, 20) having at least one input (11, 21) and at least one output (12, 22). Furthermore the invention relates to a method for operating such a reducing agent metering system for injection of a reducing agent into the exhaust gas flow of an internal combustion engine for selective catalytic reduction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Sascha Dolenec
  • Publication number: 20140033682
    Abstract: In a method for operating an SCR catalytic converter provided for the reduction of NOx in exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine, which SCR catalytic converter is operated with a reagent which can be stored in the SCR catalytic converter such that there is a certain reagent fill level in the SCR catalytic converter, wherein the actual NOx concentration downstream of the SCR catalytic converter is monitored on the basis of the signal of a sensor, which is arranged downstream of the SCR catalytic converter and which is sensitive at least with respect to NOx, in comparison with a calculated NOx concentration downstream of the SCR catalytic converter, it is provided according to the invention that, in the case of a comparison result which represents a conversion deficit as a difference between the measured actual NOx concentration and the previous calculated reagent fill level in the SCR catalytic converter is corrected to a new calculated reagent fill level, whereby an immediate dosing of reagent takes p
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Frank Schweizer
  • Publication number: 20140033683
    Abstract: A method includes determining whether a urea refill event is detected, and clearing a quality accumulator value and clearing a latching abort command. The method includes determining whether urea fluid quality check abort conditions are met, and clearing the urea quality accumulator, latching the abort command, and exiting the reductant fluid quality check. In response to the abort conditions not being met, incrementing the urea quality accumulator according to an amount of urea being injected, and comparing the accumulated urea quantity to a low test threshold. The method includes, in response to the accumulated urea quantity being greater than the low test threshold, comparing the accumulated urea quantity to a high test threshold, and in response to the urea quantity being greater than the high test threshold, determining whether the a NOx exceedance is observed and clearing a urea quality error in response to the NOx exceedance not being observed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Cummins Emmision Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Xi Wei, David Everard, Baohua Qi, Mickey R. McDaniel, Edmund P. Hodzen, Guoquiang Li
  • Publication number: 20140033684
    Abstract: A method for operating a dosing unit for dosing reducing agent into an exhaust gas treatment device for purifying the exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine, includes providing the dosing unit with at least one delivery pump, at least one injector and a line section for conducting reducing agent from the delivery pump to the injector. The dosing unit is first operated for dosing reducing agent into the exhaust gas treatment device. Then, the dosing unit is shut off. Subsequently, a first pressure is maintained in the line section for at least a first time period, with the first pressure exceeding atmospheric pressure. A motor vehicle having the dosing unit is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: EMITEC GESELLSCHAFT FUER EMISSIONSTECHNOLOGIE MBH
    Inventors: JAN HODGSON, SVEN SCHEPERS, PETER HIRTH
  • Publication number: 20140033685
    Abstract: An exhaust system for a vehicular lean burn internal combustion engine that emits oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) is disclosed. The system comprises a NOx reduction catalyst for reducing NOx in the presence of a nitrogenous reductant, means for introducing the nitrogenous reductant into a flowing exhaust gas, a filter for removing PM from exhaust gas flowing in the exhaust system and a low pressure exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) circuit for connecting the exhaust system downstream of the filter to an air intake of the engine. The EGR circuit comprises an ammonia oxidation catalyst.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: JOHNSON MATTHEY PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
    Inventors: Guy Richard Chandler, Neil Robert Collins, Paul Richard Phillips
  • Publication number: 20140033686
    Abstract: An apparatus for distributing fluids in an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. The apparatus includes an injection device, wherein a combination of a plurality of individual measures for achieving a uniform mixing of the fluids with the exhaust gas and a complete vaporizing of the fluids in the exhaust gas is provided. The individual measure comprises at least one of at least one swirl-generating device and at least one mixing apparatus. The individual measure also includes at least one catalyst. The individual measure further includes an injection nozzle of the injection device which is arranged at a predefined spacing from a wall of the exhaust tract.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Friedrich Boysen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Fischer, Michael Müller, Jürgen Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20140033687
    Abstract: The present invention has its object to provide a technique which can eliminate HC poisoning of an exhaust gas purification catalyst in a suitable manner in a fuel injection control system of an internal combustion engine which can use a liquid fuel and a gas fuel. In order to achieve this object, the present invention is constructed such that in the fuel injection control system of an internal combustion engine capable of using a liquid fuel and a gas fuel, when HC poisoning of the exhaust gas purification catalyst has occurred, HC poisoning is intended to be eliminated by causing the internal combustion engine to operate by the use of the gas fuel if the temperature of the exhaust gas purification catalyst is less than a specified value, whereas the elimination of HC poisoning is intended by causing the internal combustion engine to operate by the use of the liquid fuel if the temperature of an exhaust gas purification device is not less than the specified value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yusuke Nakayama, Toru Kidokoro, Kenji Sakurai