Abstract: According to one embodiment, a flapping lock for a rotor system includes a downstop, a flapping stop, and an actuator. The downstop is in mechanical communication with a shaft. The flapping stop is in mechanical communication with a rotor hub. The actuator is operable to move the downstop towards the flapping stop.

Abstract: The centrifugal force bearing includes a plurality of tapered metal shims such that the thicker end of each tapered metal shim near the inner portion of bearing. The bearing can include a plurality of tapered elastomeric members that are consequently tapered so that the inner portions are narrower than the outer portions. The tapered metal shims can increase the axial stiffness in the direction of the centrifugal force, thereby reducing the axial deflection under loading, as compared to non-tapered shims. Further, reducing axial deflection reduces clearance issues that may arise when the rotor blade is allowed to axial deflect significant distances. As such, the tapered metal shims can increase the capacity of the bearing. Tapering the metal shims can decrease the compression induced shear strain near the outer portions of the elastomeric member, where loads are typically higher.

Abstract: An aircraft region having an aisle which leads into an aircraft door region and via which passengers can leave the aircraft or enter the aircraft. The aircraft region further has at least one monument, wherein one of the side walls of the monument is adjacent to the aisle in such a manner that the side wall forms one of the lateral boundaries of the aisle. A niche is formed in a portion of the side wall of the monument facing the aircraft door, which niche is so configured that it is able to accommodate a standing person wholly or at least for the most part.

Abstract: Overhead bin assembly for transport vehicles (e.g., transport category aircraft) are provided with a generally U-shaped bin shell having a bottom wall, an outboard end wall and an upper wall defining an interior stowage space having an inboard opening opposite the end wall. A pair of separated transverse bin supports defining a bin space therebetween may be provided along with a bin door for closing the inboard opening. A cantilever hinge may be provided so as to connect the bin door to the transverse bin support in a cantilever manner to allow for pivotal movement of the bin door between closed and open positions relative to the inboard opening. An arcuate recessed wall may be positioned inboard relative to the upper wall of the bin shell (e.g., as a unitary (one-piece) extension thereof) such that the bin door is received within the recessed wall when in the open position thereof.

Abstract: A seat for an airplane is provided that makes it possible to absorb, in the event of a frontal impact of the airplane, the rocking to which a passenger in a seat located behind the seat is subjected. The backrest of the seat is provided with a reinforcing strip placed behind the backrest. The seat portion can also be provided with a second reinforcing strip placed under the seat portion. The reinforcing strip includes knitted or woven textile. In the case of knitting, the yarn used has a high tenacity, and the knitting stitch can advantageously be the Jersey stitch. In the case of weaving, the weft and warp threads have approximately the same tenacity.

Abstract: A cabin attendant seat including a carrier element which comprises a backrest section and a base section that carries the backrest section and a seat element fastened to a front side of the carrier element. At least one first stowage compartment is integrated into the carrier element. An inclined section of a rear wall of the carrier element is inclined, at least along a section of the first stowage compartment integrated into the carrier element, in such a way that a cross-sectional area of the carrier element increases in the direction of the base section of the carrier element.

Abstract: The invention is a Modular Airplane Seat Unit (1), where the seat can be lowered into the floor of a passenger cabin (9) via telescopic structure (14) and covered by sliding covers (12). The modular seat unit is to be utilized in passenger airplanes providing a more comfortable and healthy flight to the passengers, and more than one additional options like Coffee Table and Leg Rest.

Abstract: A heater mat for a rotor blade includes a plurality of electrically conductive heater wires extending in a path along a span of the rotor blade and a plurality of yarn thread knitted to the plurality of heater wires, each of the yarn threads looping around at least one of the plurality of heater wires. A warp thread is positioned between adjacent heater wires and knitted to adjacent pairs of the yarn threads without looping around the plurality of heater wires, to maintain spacing between adjacent heater wires of the plurality of heater wires. An electrical current flowed through the plurality of heater wires inhibits ice accumulation on the rotor blade assembly.

Abstract: Methods and systems are generally described that inhibit debris (such as ice) accretions and/or remove debris (such as ice) accretions from the exterior surface of an aircraft. In some embodiments, the invention is a system for an aircraft comprising: a component of the aircraft having a surface; a plurality of piezo-kinetic actuators each positioned proximate to a portion of the surface; and a control unit coupled to the plurality of actuators, the control unit configured to actuate one or more of the actuators at one or more frequencies between about 1 Hz and about 1 kHz; wherein the actuators are each configured to introduce a displacement of the surface in three dimensions to inhibit a formation of ice on at least the portion of the surface and to break up existing ice formations on at least the portion of the surface.

Abstract: A ram air turbine with a turbine assembly and a power train, the turbine assembly only coupling to the entire power train upon reaching a desired rotational speed of the turbine assembly, the ram air turbine having a clutch mechanism, the engagement of which couples the turbine assembly to at least a portion of the power train, and a speed control mechanism that engages the clutch mechanism only when the turbine assembly attains at least the desired rotational speed.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing event driven vehicle position reporting are disclosed. For example, if a conventional communication system normally utilized by the vehicle for position reporting is turned off, behaving abnormally or otherwise disabled, methods and systems in accordance with the present disclosure may provide supplemental means and capabilities to continue vehicle position reporting. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the supplemental reporting systems are configured so that they cannot be turned off or disabled.

Abstract: A method for sensing a takeoff of an aircraft includes receiving a rate of change in vertical motion of the aircraft, determining whether the rate of change in vertical motion of the aircraft exceeds a first threshold, integrating the rate of change in vertical motion of the aircraft and outputting a virtual altitude signal, responsive to receiving the indication that a portion of the aircraft is contacting a surface, delaying the virtual altitude signal through a discrete low pass filter and outputting a delayed virtual altitude signal, subtracting the delayed virtual altitude signal from the virtual altitude signal to output an altitude perturbation signal, determining whether the altitude perturbation signal exceeds a second threshold value, and outputting an indication that the portion of the aircraft is not contacting the surface responsive to the rate of change in the vertical motion of the aircraft and the altitude perturbation signal.

Abstract: A strobe light unit, particularly wing anti-collision strobe light unit for an aircraft, comprises at least one light source, particularly at least one LED; a reflector element, the at least one light source and the reflector element being configured for projecting light into a desired range of directions; and a stray light blocking element for blocking stray light from being projected into undesired directions, the stray light blocking element attached to the reflector element or to a base portion of the strobe light unit.

Abstract: A method for balloon launching may include loading a pre-packaged balloon and payload into a shell structure. The pre-packaged balloon may be pulled out of its packaging in a vertical direction, for instance using a gantry crane. The gantry crane may be configured to inflate the balloon from the top of the envelope. The balloon may be inflated while substantially within the shell structure, which may provide protection from wind gusts. A vehicle, such as a heavy forklift, may provide mobility and support for the balloon and shell. Once the balloon is inflated, the vehicle may move the balloon/shell combination at a rate and direction substantially matching the current wind direction/speed. Furthermore, after reaching a zero-velocity condition relative to the wind, the vehicle may assist and/or initiate the opening of the shell. A tether connecting the balloon to the shell structure may be disconnected, allowing the balloon to launch.

Abstract: An offshore airborne wind turbine system including an aerial vehicle, an electrically conductive tether having a first end secured to the aerial vehicle and a second end secured to a platform, a rotatable drum positioned on the platform, an aerial vehicle perch extending from the platform, wherein the platform is positioned on a top of a spar buoy.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for enhancing performance of a system that includes a plurality of components. A server is coupled to a scanning device that is configured to scan a first component of the plurality of components for an identifier that uniquely identifies the first component. The server receives, from the scanning device, an identification of the first component of the plurality of components. The server also determines an operating parameter that is uniquely related to the first component, compares the operating parameter to a predefined baseline for the first component, and determines whether the first component is a rogue component.

Abstract: Negative-stiffness-producing mechanisms can be incorporated with structural devices that are used on spacecraft that provide thermal coupling between a vibrating source and a vibration-sensitive object. Negative-stiffness-producing mechanisms can be associated with a flexible conductive link (FCL) or “thermal strap” or “cold strap” to reduce the positive stiffness of the FCL. The negative-stiffness-producing mechanism can be loaded so as to create negative stiffness that will reduce or negate the natural positive stiffness inherent with the FCL. The FCL will still be able to provide maximum thermal conductance while achieving low or near-zero stiffness to maximize structural decoupling.

Abstract: A shield comprised of carbon nanotube materials is used to provide a level of protection to a spacecraft. Shield segments are produced in a facility in space. The segments are transported from the facility to a vicinity of a spacecraft hull. The segments are assembled over the hull to substantially cover an area of the hull.

Abstract: The invention primarily is directed to an orienting holder for a container that is being filled with a product on a container filling line. The container holder (10) has at least two rollers (18) and a base portion (12). The rollers are made of an elastic material which can be an elastomer inclusive of polymeric foams. The rollers are on arms (15, 16) that project above the base portion and usually will contact the container (30) at an upper part of the container. The arms which support the rollers can pivot. The elastic material of the rollers provide for a positive gripping of the container on the filling line, including a positive grip onto containers which may be partially out of the specified tolerances. The compressibility of the elastic material of the rollers can be enhanced through forming channels (27) in the roller structure.

Abstract: A powder doser for accurately dispensing powder, for example a pharmaceutical substance, into a receptacle, the powder doser comprising a hopper with a tip having an aperture through which powder may flow, a closure to close the aperture and a vibration device configured to agitate the hopper, wherein a first portion of the hopper is formed of flexible material and a second portion proximate the tip is formed of substantially rigid material.

Abstract: This application discloses a method of preparing an assembly. A base assembly is provided and includes a base, and a second fastener structure coupled to the base at a joint. The base assembly is then attached to a receiving element that is configured to physically receive a module and includes a first fastener structure, when the first fastener structure is fastened onto the second fastener structure until the first fastener structure reaches a tightened position. After the first fastener structure reaches the tightened position, the receiving element is rotated reversely at the first degree of freedom of motion by a first angle to orient the receiving element to a nominal position. At the nominal position, the receiving element and the module received thereby are configured to face substantially up when they are flipped down via the joint at the second degree of freedom of motion.

Abstract: A tray sealer that may be incorporated into a packaging facility, the tray sealer may include a tray feeder for collecting a plurality of trays that are conveyed on a continuously moving chain feeder. An embodiment of the tray feeder may comprise at least two train chains. Each train chain may be independently moveable and each train chain may be operable grouping the plurality of the trays into groups and transferring the groups to a sealing station. The group of trays may have number of trays that corresponds to the operation of the sealing station. The tray sealer may include the transfer of a group of trays by a gripper system to a sealing station of the tray sealer.

Abstract: Automated systems and methods for constructing card multipacks. An automated system for constructing card multipacks includes: a movable conveyor; a first carrier placing station configured to place a first carrier portion of a carrier on the conveyor; at least one card placing station configured to place a plurality of stored value cards on the first carrier portion; a data capture station configured to read a card bar code of each of the plurality of stored value cards in-line in the automated system; and a software system adapted to create a data file including the card bar codes.

Abstract: A vacuum sealing machine contains a sealing unit including a first connecting rod, two first electromagnets, and a first press member, the first connecting rod having two fixing pieces and two first apertures, and the first press member having a first adhering face; a pressing unit including a second connecting rod, two second electromagnets, a second press member, and two connection mounts, the second connecting rod having two pull bars, a plurality of second apertures, and two support tabs to support the first connecting rod, and the second press member having a second adhering face; an air exhausting unit including a transmission device and a drawing device; the body having a holder in which a receiving room is formed so as to receive the sealing unit, the pressing unit, and the air exhausting unit; the receiving room having a seat, the seat having the barrier strip and a heating strip.

Abstract: A feeding device for feeding products (12a-k) and/or stacks of products (14a-k) to a packaging process of a packaging machine (16a, 16d-k), in particular of a horizontal tube packaging machine, comprises a guide unit (22a-k) which is disposed as a closed loop (18a, 18c-k) and on which a plurality of arranged conveyor elements (22a-k) are arranged so as to be drivable mutually independently in a speed- and/or position-controlled manner at least along at least one working section (24a, 24c-d, 24f-k) of the guide unit (20a-d, 20f-k). At least one conveyor element (22a-k) has a holder (26a-k), and at least one conveyor element (22a-k) that follows contrary to a conveying direction (28a, 28c-k) has a counter holder (30a-k).

Abstract: An apparatus for producing an oscillating force that actuates a mechanism and comprises the following components: a frame; channels attached to each of the sides of the frame; a servo motor positioned on the top of the frame; a shaft assembly having an offset slider assembly where the top end is attached to the servo motor and the bottom end is positioned adjacent to the bottom of the frame; a pusher block having a rectangular shaped opening therein and horizontal rails each attached to opposite side of the pusher block and each is slidably positioned in the channels attached to the sides of the frame and the off-set slider assembly being positioned in the rectangular shaped opening of the pusher block; an actuation mechanism attached to the pusher block that provides a forward and backward oscillating motion to the pusher block; and a heat sealing mechanism that is actuated by the actuation mechanism.

Abstract: A method for wrapping a product in a sheet material wrapper employing a first sheet of plastically deformable sheet material (for example aluminium) and a second sheet of wrapping material (for example a plastic film) having springback. Once the product is placed on the first sheet, the second sheet is applied on the product providing in the second sheet a part wrapping the product and a part facing the first sheet. The first sheet and the part of said second sheet facing it are airtight-seal coupled so to form, by effect of the coupling, a plastically deformable composite sheet material against the product or to form an integral housing cup.

Abstract: A label manufacturing apparatus manufactures a label L having a sub-label Lb bonded to a predetermined position on a main label La. A main label conveyance mechanism 10 conveys a main continuous label strip Ta in a first direction Da. A sub-label conveyance mechanism 20 conveys a sub-continuous label strip Tb in a second direction which crosses the first direction. The sub-labels Lb arranged in series on a backing strip Db, are separated from their backing strip and are each bonded to the surface of a respective main label La by a bonding mechanism. The completed display label L is separated from its backing strip Db of the main continuous label strip Ta. The label manufacturing apparatus can adjust the relative bonding position between the sub-label and the main label La so as to allow the sub-label bonding mechanism 20 to bond the sub-label Lb to the main label La at a predetermined position.

Abstract: A container is disclosed that has a drawn and ironed aluminum container body. The container body includes a body portion with a relatively constant outer diameter and a varying diameter neck portion integrally connected to the body portion and terminating in an opening. The container body is constructed and arranged to receive, without crushing deformation, a metal crown applied by conventional glass bottle crowning equipment.

Abstract: A preform 20 for a large container, used for producing a large container which is made of a polyethylene terephthalate resin and which is formed by stretch blow molding, is formed by injecting molding to have a wall thickness of 6 mm to 9 mm and have a longitudinal axis length longer than that of the large container which is a final molded product.

Abstract: A plastic container has a mouth region and a main body adjoining the mouth region in a longitudinal direction (L) of the plastic container. The main body has a peripheral wall extending around in a circumferential direction of the plastic container. A container base adjoining the main body has a central region and a plurality of reinforcing ribs which, starting from the central region, extend in the direction of the circumferential wall. A stepped portion extending at least partially in the circumferential region of the plastic container is provided in a circumferential region of the container base which extends in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal direction (L), wherein a vertical position of this stepped portion varies in the longitudinal direction (L).

Abstract: A sealed package for pourable food products, comprising a quadrangular bottom panel with opposite first front edge and a second rear edge; a quadrangular top panel opposite to bottom panel and comprises a third front edge and a fourth rear edge; a front panel between first and third edges; and a rear panel between second and fourth edges; the distance between first and third edges is smaller than the distance between second and fourth edges; top panel angled with respect to a first plane defined by first and second edges; first and third edge define a theoretical reference plane; front panel comprises opposite fifth and sixth edges between first and second edges; at least one of fifth and sixth front edge extends at least partially on opposite side of theoretical plane with respect to rear panel; front panel comprises at least a first region on opposite side of theoretical plane.

Abstract: A system for constructing an integrated gift box and ornamental character article includes a plurality of sides and a lid forming a box having an interior compartment adapted to enclose a gift therein. The lid is movable relative to the sides to open and close the interior compartment for placing the gift into and removing the gift from the interior compartment such that the box has an internal construction that functions as a gift box. The system also includes a plurality of appendages attached and extending outwardly from at least some exterior surfaces of different ones of the sides of the box, and a plurality of graphical images applied on at least some exterior surfaces of different ones of box sides such that the box, appendages and graphical images integrate together to provide an external construction that functions as an ornamental character wherein the box also functions as a body of the ornamental character.

Abstract: A foldable food carton including a collapsible condiment container holder is provided. The food carton may be constructed from a single blank and is capable of being folded into a substantially flat configuration for transportation or storage. The condiment container holder is designed go from a collapsed position, where it is folded substantially flat against the sidewall panel of the carton, to an extended position, where it is capable of holding a single-serving condiment container in close proximity to the carton. The condiment container may consist of a holding section hingedly connected to a sidewall panel of the carton and a support leg hingedly connected to the holding section and capable of supporting the holding section when it is extended horizontally from the sidewall panel. The holding section can include an opening with tabs therein in order to receive and secure a condiment container for use with the carton.

Abstract: A friction lock adaptable spacer configured to provide suitable separation between two or more objects. The spacer may be used during the storage, transport, display, and/or use of the objects to separate them and protect them from their surrounding environment. In some embodiments, the spacer is designed to maintain a suitable separation between two or more beverage containers. The spacer has a single piece construction, which reduces assembly and disassembly labor, and also reduces materials required for construction and disposal. The spacer may be constructed from a single piece of material, such as corrugated cardboard.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses directed to cartons with user selectable dispensing configurations. An example carton for dispensing a plurality of products stored therein includes a first removable feature configured to be selectively removed from a top surface to enable removal of a portion of a first end; a second removable feature configured to be selectively removed from the top surface to enable removal of a portion of a second end; and a third removable feature configured to be selectively removed from the top surface to enable removal of a portion of the top surface. The carton defines a closed configuration and a dispensing configuration that is defined by at least one of the portion of the first end being removed, the portion of the second end being removed, or the portion of the top surface being removed. Methods for manufacturing a carton with user selectable dispensing configurations are also contemplated.

Abstract: Non-durable self-supporting flexible containers having gradients where at least one of a plurality of physical characteristics that are perceptible via tactile interaction with an exterior surface of the container are varied across the exterior of the container. The flexible containers may permit users to perceive viscosity or relative thermal condition of contained product in discrete zones or regions of the container through one or more outer surface of the container without direct interaction with the product, or vary hardness or softness of the container.

Abstract: A novel pallet construction includes a rigid pallet body including a linear conduit passing through the pallet between opposing sides of the pallet and open at the ends of the conduit. The conduit includes a removable lining to prevent destruction of the pallet and conduit during use. In alternative configurations, two offset conduits may be provided to accommodate other hardware and use constraints.

Abstract: A joint member includes a base member and a key member. The base member includes: a cylindrical portion having a first opening at one end and second opening at other end that is inserted into the through-hole; a flange portion that is formed around a first opening of the cylindrical portion; hook members that are connected to opposite inner walls of the cylindrical portion; a rib that is formed on at least one of the hook members and extends toward the first opening. The key member includes: a pushing portion that is insertable into the cylindrical portion through the first opening, butts against the rib portion to rotate the hook member toward the second opening. When the pushing portion is inserted in the cylindrical portion, the flange portion and the hook member sandwich the packing members, and the ribs close the opening at the other end of the cylindrical portion.

Abstract: A hinge system comprises a first component and a second component. Arranged on the first component, a first pin (314) and a second pin (324) are not on a same axis. The first pin is movably arranged in a first slot (814) on the second component. The second pin is movably arranged in a second slot (824) on the second component. The first component selectively stays in a first position state or a second position state relative to the second component, thus allowing the hinge system to be folded reliably and conveniently. Also a collapsible container comprising the hinge system is disclosed.

Abstract: Delamination resistant glass containers with heat-tolerant coatings are disclosed. In one embodiment, a glass container may include a glass body having an interior surface, an exterior surface and a wall thickness extending from the exterior surface to the interior surface. At least the interior surface of the glass body is delamination resistant. The glass container may further include a heat-tolerant coating positioned on at least a portion of the exterior surface of the glass body. The heat-tolerant coating may be thermally stable at temperatures greater than or equal to 260° C. for 30 minutes.

Abstract: A product container includes a top portion defining an opening, a bottom portion defining a base, and a central portion including a plurality of sidewalls extending between the top and bottom portions. Three of the sidewalls include discrete planar facets that collectively define a narrowed waist portion, at which the product container has smaller dimensions or a smaller cross sectional area compared to the top portion and the bottom portion. The narrowed waist portion is configured to be gripped by a user for lifting the product container (even when wearing gloves), and a flat product label may also be placed on the product container at the narrowed waist portion. The narrowed waist portion provides a natural gripping location as well as clearance between abutting product containers when multiple abutting product containers are located on a shelf.

Abstract: A transport item of a body of foamed thermoset material is described having a density that varies across the thickness of the body with the greatest density being proximate an outer surface of the body.

Abstract: A liquid containment device for use with refrigerators to prevent overflow and damage to flooring. The containment device allows for appliance elevation within and integral support and water collection pan. The detachable loading ramps provide for smoothly rolling the appliance up onto the integrated independent elevated level support surfaces within the water retainment pan.

Abstract: A zipper for a reclosable bag including an elongated groove profile having two arms which form a general U-shape to define an opening to a channel, and an elongated rib profile opposing the groove profile, wherein a plurality of first segments of the rib profile alternate with a plurality of second segments of the rib profile to create a structural discontinuity along a length thereof, wherein during interlocking the groove and rib profiles, an audible clicking sound of at least 50 dB on average is created during opening and closing.

Abstract: A reusable bottle cap system includes a bottle cap and a bottle cap cover. The bottle cap includes a stem portion extending downwardly from a flanged portion. When in use the stem portion is used to seal a bottle mouth. When the bottle cap is not in use the bottle cap cover encloses and houses the stem portion to protect it from debris. The flanged portion includes a complementary mating structure. The bottle cap cover includes a mating structure that engages the complementary mating structure to secure the bottle cap cover to the flanged portion. When the bottle cap cover is secured to the flanged portion the stem portion extends substantially to a closed bottom end of an inside surface of the bottle cap cover.

Abstract: A passive valve closure for liquid medicaments, configured to permit irreversible attachment to a pre-existing bottle and reversible engagement with a dosage cup bearing lugs such that when the dosage cup engages skirt lugs on the closure, a child-resistant closure is effected.

Abstract: A screw closure (1) and a security ring (2) for closing an opening of a container, the screw closure (1) being connected to the security ring (2) by way of breakable bridge elements (4), the screw closure having an internal thread (6) for screwing onto an external thread on the opening of the container. The security ring (2) includes latching means which are intended to engage behind a bead on the opening of the container such that, when the screw closure (1) is unscrewed for the first time, the bridging elements (4) break and the screw closure (1) and the security ring (2) are separated from one another. A security seal (13) is provided on the screw closure (1) and the security ring (2) and is damaged when unscrewing takes place for the first time. The security seal can be attached to the screw closure and security ring in a separate operation from the filling and closing of the container.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multilayer body, a packaging material and a container, each of which can maintain excellent water repellent properties and non-adhesive properties. Specifically, the present invention describes a non-adhesive multilayer body wherein hydrophobic oxide fine particles having an average primary particle diameter of 3-100 nm adhere to at least a part of the outermost layer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cover film and an electronic component package that uses the cover film as a lid material for a thermoplastic resin carrier tape, the cover film having at least a substrate layer, an intermediate layer, and a heat sealing layer having a thermoplastic resin which can be heat-sealed to a carrier tape, the intermediate layer including a metallocene straight-chain low density polyethylene, the metallocene straight-chain low density polyethylene having a TMA softening temperature of 90 to 109 ° C. according to JIS K7196, and the cover film in some instances having a release layer between the intermediate layer and the heat sealing layer.