Patents Issued in January 18, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180015349
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to various components of a system for monitoring and/or tracking a user's performance during an activity involving an instrument that is swung. Exemplary embodiments can include a sensor module configured to be secured to and/or embedded within the instrument. The sensor module can detect a swing event and/or an impact between the instrument and an object and can generate pressures waves that propagate through air. The pressure waves can include information or represent information about a use of the instrument and can be detected by an electronic device associated with the user, which can display the information, process the information, and/or transmit the information to a remote system. The pressure waves can be modulated to encode information within the pressure waves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: Arccos Golf, LLC
    Inventor: Fabrice Claude Blanc
  • Publication number: 20180015350
    Abstract: A post safety device for a rigid structure with vertical rigid support posts, the safety device having a flexible, resilient insert attached below ground level between the lower end of the vertical posts, and the upper end of a rigid anchor attached below each insert, and a safety device for a rigid structure with vertical rigid wall elements, the safety device having a flexible, resilient strip attached below ground level between the base of each rigid wall element and a rigid anchor attached below each strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: James LINDSAY, Kathleen MCCROSSAN
  • Publication number: 20180015351
    Abstract: A ball safety netting system for use between a field and spectators and above an access/egress gate includes, for example, a main netting defining an opening over an access/egress gate, a gate netting positionable over the opening of the main netting, and wherein the gate netting is disposable in a first position operable to cover the opening in said main netting above the access/egress gate, and disposable in a second position operable to uncover the opening above the access/egress gate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: SPORTSFIELD INTELLECTUAL, LLC
    Inventors: Keegan R. MULHOLLAND, Joshua A. HICKS
  • Publication number: 20180015352
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hand-held count indicator of the kind having particular application to be used by a baseball umpire. The count indicator includes rows of indicator pins which are representative of balls, strikes and outs called by the umpire. A pushing force applied by the umpire to selected ones of the indicator pins causes the pins to slide through the count indicator from a raised position extending outwardly from the top of the device to a depressed position extending outwardly from the bottom of the device. The tops of the indicator pins have different shapes that can be tactilely sensed and distinguished from one another to provide the umpire with an indication of strikes, balls and outs at any time during play without the umpire having to shift his eyes away from the game in order to look at the count indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Trevor J. Freeman
  • Publication number: 20180015353
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive system for a vehicle drivable by muscle force, in particular for a skateboard, said drive system comprising at least one axle and at least one wheel (1) which has an electric motor (10), wherein the electric motor (10) comprises a stator (11), which can be connected to the axle, and a rotor (12) which is rotatable about the stator. The invention is characterised in that the wheel (1) has a roller (20) which forms a running surface (24), wherein the roller (20) is or can be replaceably connected to the rotor (12). The invention further relates to a method for changing a roller (20) of such a drive system and to a production method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Kilian GREEN
  • Publication number: 20180015354
    Abstract: Various powered wheeled board vehicles are disclosed. In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a deck having a forward portion and a rearward portion. At least one front wheel can be connected with the deck under the forward portion. The front wheel can be configured to swivel about a first axis and rotate about a second axis. A powered wheel can be connected with the rearward portion. In some configurations, the rear wheel comprises a hub motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: RAZOR USA LLC
    Inventor: Joey Chih-Wei Huang
  • Publication number: 20180015355
    Abstract: Various powered mobility systems for users are described. The powered mobility system can include at least one powered skate. The powered skate can include a platform, a plurality of wheels, and a motor assembly. The motor assembly can include a motor. The motor can be powered by a power supply. A motor control can be implemented to determine when power is supplied to the motor from the power supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Ian Desberg, Robert Hadley, Joey Chih-Wei Huang
  • Publication number: 20180015356
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods, and associated devices to detect deviation of a ball from a path when spin is applied, providing an indication about whether a spin alignment compensation is optimally calibrated for deflection of the ball. An example apparatus includes a support structure and detection members. The detection members are coupled to the support structure and arranged to allow a ball to travel between the detection members. At least one of the detection members is movable relative to the support structure and moves upon collision with the ball. The movement of at least one of the detection members indicates that the ball has deviated from a straight path of travel through the detection members. A displacement of at least one of the detection members indicates the direction of deviation of the ball, and an amplitude of movement of the detection member indicates a degree of deviation of the ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Ira Lee
  • Publication number: 20180015357
    Abstract: A playing card shuffling device includes a visual display in information communication with the playing card shuffling device. At least one processor is programmed to provide displayable information to the visual display indicative of an amount of time remaining or time expired in a procedure performed by the playing card shuffling device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: James B. Stasson, Ronald R. Swanson, Paul K. Scheper, Troy D. Nelson, Feraidoon Bourbour, Attila Grauzer
  • Publication number: 20180015358
    Abstract: A method initiates execution of a wagering event uses playing card symbols comprising: providing a set of randomized playing cards comprising five distinct sets of face-colored playing cards, each set having numeric values evenly distributed among the sets of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, with one of the five distinct sets valued as negative numeric values; delivering two random playing cards to each of a player position hand as an initial player position hand and a banker position hand as an initial banker position hand; summing respective numeric values of the two cards in each of the player position hand and the banker position hand, including any negative numeric values; determining if there is a concluding outcome in a comparison of respective summed numeric values in the player position hand and the banker position hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: David Mahon
  • Publication number: 20180015359
    Abstract: A scratch-off fantasy sport gaming ticket has: a ticket support sheet; two or three distinct regions of images on one side of the ticket support sheet; a first region providing a random distribution of symbols indicating a number of distinct sports events which the ticket can use; a second region of images providing either i) a random distribution of multiple symbols indicating one sports team or player on which the ticket can be used with the number of distinct sports events; a third region providing a random distribution of symbols indicating a sports statistic to be associated with both the multiple symbols indicating the number of distinct sports events and the sports team or player; and each of the two or three visually distinct regions of images have an opaque scratch-off coating over them, or ii) a second region having both events and statistical target in each distinct region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Mark A. Litman
  • Publication number: 20180015360
    Abstract: A scratch-off fantasy sport gaming ticket has: a ticket support sheet; two or three distinct regions of images on one side of the ticket support sheet; a first region providing a random distribution of symbols indicating a number of distinct sports events which the ticket can use; a second region of images providing either i) a random distribution of multiple symbols indicating one sports team or player on which the ticket can be used with the number of distinct sports events; a third region providing a random distribution of symbols indicating a sports statistic to be associated with both the multiple symbols indicating the number of distinct sports events and the sports team or player; and each of the two or three visually distinct regions of images have an opaque scratch-off coating over them, or ii) a second region having both events and statistical target in each distinct region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Mark A. Litman
  • Publication number: 20180015361
    Abstract: A constrained puzzle device including a housing formed with a radial crescent gutter; one or more slots providing an opening from an outer edge of the housing toward a centerline of the housing; a cartridge wheel nested within the slot and rotatably coupled to the housing, the cartridge wheel having multiple channels passing therethrough. The constrained puzzle device further includes one or more dials rotatably coupled with the housing, the dials configured with structures extending at least partially over the crescent gutter to create one or more pocket regions. Puzzle objects can be disposed within a channel of the cartridge wheel and the slot of the housing, or within the crescent gutter of the housing and a pocket formed by at least one arm member of the dial. The puzzle objects can be moved around in the constrained puzzle device as a user rotates the dials and/or the cartridge wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Cindy Lee, Kang Lee
  • Publication number: 20180015362
    Abstract: An information processing method including generating virtual space data for defining a virtual space comprising a virtual camera and a sound source object. The virtual space includes first and second regions. The method further includes determining a visual field of the virtual camera in accordance with a detected movement of a first head mounted display (HMD). The method further includes generating visual-field image data based on the visual field of the virtual camera and the virtual space data. The method further includes instructing the first HMD to display a visual-field image based on the visual-field image data. The method further includes setting an attenuation coefficient for defining an attenuation amount of a sound propagating through the virtual space, wherein the attenuation coefficient is set based on a the visual field of the virtual camera. The method further includes processing the sound based on the attenuation coefficient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Shuhei TERAHATA
  • Publication number: 20180015363
    Abstract: This disclosure is generally directed to a smart playable device and systems and methods of interacting with the playable device. The playable device can include any device that is suitable for sports, games, or play, such as balls, discs, staffs, clubs, and the like. The playable device can include rapid charging circuits to receive power from a remote charger. The playable device may transmit sensor data including motion data to a computing device. Sensor data may be interpreted by the computing device as gestures of the playable device for interacting with the computing device. Sensor data can also be interpreted as motion data during gameplay and notifications can be provided to a user based on the gameplay. In some instances, the computing device can capture image data of the playable device and identify the playable device and annotate image data based on the sensor data from the playable device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Brian Monnin, Gadi Amit, Kevin Langdon
  • Publication number: 20180015364
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a unique interactive game that connects both physical and virtual play environments and includes multiple dynamic layers in which a participant may complete a variety of challenges and/or tasks. For example, the participant may obtain a physical gaming item such as a toy from a retail phase that is usable in an interactive entertainment phase that provides virtual play via computer animation. The interactive entertainment phase may include multiple interrelated layers such that progress in one or more layers may affect the participant's experience in one or more other layers. The participant may also receive training on how to use and improve the physical gaming item to help achieve one or more special effects or complete one or more adventures and/or quests.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Jonathan A. Barney, Denise Chapman Weston
  • Publication number: 20180015365
    Abstract: Techniques to interact with an application via messaging are described. An apparatus may comprise an application support component and a communication component. The application support component may be operative to generate an image representing a state of an application and to update the state of the application according to a text command. The communication component may be operative to transmit the image to a client device via a messaging system as an image attachment to a first message and to receive a second message from the client device via the messaging system, the second message comprising the text command. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Oded Blayer, Ittai Golde, Ran Makavy, Amir Rosenfeld
  • Publication number: 20180015366
    Abstract: When a first swing input is determined to have been made in a first movement start-possible state, in which a first object is allowed to start moving, and when the first object is put into the first movement start-possible state within a predetermined time period after the first swing input is determined to have been made, the first object is started to move in a virtual space based on at least the first swing input; and when a second swing input is determined to have been made in a second movement start-possible state, in which a second object is allowed to start moving, and when the second object is put into the second movement start-possible state within a predetermined time period after the second swing input is determined to have been made, the second object is started to move based on at least the second swing input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Jun ITO, Shintaro JIKUMARU
  • Publication number: 20180015367
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an information processing apparatus, including: an image acceptance section configured to accept an image of an operation inputting apparatus picked up by an imaging section; an operation signal acceptance section configured to accept an operation signal representative of an operation for the operation inputting apparatus from the operation inputting apparatus; and a process execution section configured to execute a process in response to the position of the operation inputting apparatus in the image accepted by the image acceptance section and the operation signal accepted by the operation signal acceptance section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: c/o Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Yutaka Yokokawa, Nicolas Doucet, Keiichiro Ishihara
  • Publication number: 20180015368
    Abstract: A game machine includes a first operation acceptor, a register, a second operation acceptor, an output controller, and an evaluator. The first operation acceptor is configured to accept a first operation in an editing mode. The register is configured to register a display position of a reference indicator over a display screen. The second operation acceptor is configured to accept a second operation in a play mode different from the editing mode. The output controller is configured to display the reference indicator at the display position, registered by the register, over the display screen, and to move a movement object toward the reference indicator at the display position over the display screen. The evaluator is configured to evaluate the second operation based at least in part on a first timing that the movement object reaches the reference indicator and a second timing that the second operation is performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: KONAMI DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tahei KATAGAI, Hitomi KITAMURA
  • Publication number: 20180015369
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and methods are disclosed for selecting, distributing, and/or consuming content, including but not limited to recorded speech, written productions, images, recorded music, and video recordings. A multiplayer game based on content curation includes information associated with a graphically simulated multiplayer gaming environment including a plurality of different locations, a plurality of different compositions, a plurality of user profiles, and a plurality of playlists, each electronically linked to a user profile and specifying at least one composition of a plurality of different compositions, a map representing at least a subset of the plurality of different locations and at least one user icon occupying a location of at least the subset of the plurality of different locations based on associated user location information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Nick Schupak, Brian Silston, Donald Schupak
  • Publication number: 20180015370
    Abstract: System and method for retaining a strategy video game player by classifying and predicting the player game satisfaction using data extracted from player interactive game sessions. The system and method are comprised of the following: (1) a strategy game player is classified to a predefined game personality archetype/s with specific psychological needs. (2) The satisfaction of player needs (or need satisfaction) is continually monitored (3) In cases where the satisfaction decreases, the system provides motivation in order to increase satisfaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Shahar SOREK, Albertino MATALON
  • Publication number: 20180015371
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention broadly contemplate a location based rewards distribution system. Various embodiments of the invention provide rewards, for example video game unlock codes, based on a user physically visiting a specific physical location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Derek Dutilly, Michael Jacob, Greg McBride
  • Publication number: 20180015372
    Abstract: A system and method for passively validating network game users is provided. Data indicative of game behavior and actions at one or more nodes interacting with a network game in a network game community are monitored. The data is evaluated to determine whether the one or more nodes are adhering to one or more rules associated with the network game. Data indicative of illicit game behavior may trigger various responses including invalidation of the node engaged in the illicit behavior. Alternatively, a query may be generated to further identify the nature and/or actual existence of illicit behavior at the node. Monitoring of game data may occur at a server, a peer, as part of a peer group or combinations thereof, which may be based on routine schedule or part of constant game behavior monitoring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Adam P. Harris, Steve C. Schneider
  • Publication number: 20180015373
    Abstract: A new method and gaming system for recovery and relapse prevention for individuals recovering from addictive and compulsive behavior including drugs and/or alcohol is described. The system employs a series of video games configured to reinforce recovery actions, including rehearsing and reinforcing refusal language, which facilitates and expedites the recovery of an individual that has experienced problems with drugs and/or alcohol. The games provide a means of practice and training negative responses to drugs in the game world to assist with drug refusal in real-world settings, and requires the player to employ physical movements as well as verbal commands similar to those used to say ‘no’ to drugs in reality. The system preferably requires the use of a motion detection system and microphone, such as a Microsoft Kinect™ accessory. The system provides an educational and entertaining outlet for players wishing to better their lives by refusing drugs and/or alcohol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Daniel Greenberg
  • Publication number: 20180015374
    Abstract: Interactive systems and methods for creating game and game-like applications, including a side challenge application for building a head-to-head challenge between users, are presented. The first user selects the second user that is a target of the challenge. The first user then selects a fantasy performer, a performance goal for the fantasy performer, a challenge time period, and a challenge wager. The challenge is presented to the second user whom accepts, rejects or proposes a modification to the challenge. A result of the challenge is scored and reported to both of the first and second users. The fantasy performer can include a single player or entity, an entire roster or multiple players.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Daniel G. Kehoe
  • Publication number: 20180015375
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for enabling a plurality of players to play a two-dimensional, multiplayer video game that involves a plurality of game characters, each of which represented by a player, the characters deployed for combat within, at one time, one of a plurality of virtual battlefields, each battlefield comprising a plurality of platforms disposed parallel to one another, the characters adapted to be controllably moved between the plurality of platforms and perform a plurality of actions, the game generated by a game processor by executing a game software residing within a game memory, selectively associating a character with a player, each character selectively associated with at least one firearm, each of which is adapted to be controlled by the player, enabling the character to aim and fire a firearm at any angle with respect to the horizontal resulting in the targets being hit through the platforms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Paul Marino
  • Publication number: 20180015376
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mobile terminal with a call function or a texting function. The present invention controls the use of a mobile terminal by a manual operation because of an incoming call during movement. Location information indicating movement of a mobile terminal with a call or a message data exchange function is received by a GPS receiver, the distance and the movement speed are determined by using the measurement information of the two locations at every predetermined time, and whether or not the mobile terminal is moving in accordance with the movement speed is determined by a movement determination unit. When it is determined by the movement determination unit that the mobile terminal is moving, the display of incoming call information indicating an incoming call is set to non-displayed on the display unit, and at the same time, a notification sound from a speaker, etc. is invalid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Yoshinori MATSUMOTO
  • Publication number: 20180015377
    Abstract: A tower ride is disclosed with suspended cars mounted on rails that that forms track that is a complete double helix path for the car without having to turn the car or switch tracks. The car is suspended from a four truss track, riding on the two bottom rails for stability. Another embodiment is a roller coaster track mounted on a tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: William J. Kitchen
  • Publication number: 20180015378
    Abstract: Apparatus and method of building a toy or playing a game with a three-dimensional housing or case. The housing may resemble a person or individual or some other three-dimensional design such as a vehicle, plant, animal etc. The housing may include a plurality of holes passing through the housing. The apparatus may include a power supply and a light source within the housing wherein the holes allow the light to pass through the housing. A user may place pegs, which may be colored, within the holes to create a colorful figure that may resemble a predetermined design or a design the user individually creates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Tanner James Yarro
  • Publication number: 20180015379
    Abstract: A method of creating a doll modeled after a baby. The method includes performing a 3D scan of a body part of a baby and converting the 3D scan to a 3D model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Nevin Pratt
  • Publication number: 20180015380
    Abstract: A water parcourse has a suspension system and exercise elements. Each exercise element is attached for arrangement in a predetermined position of use below, on, or above a water surface or in a predetermined rest position spaced apart from the water surface on the suspension system above the water surface. The exercise elements are movable from the position of use into a rest position and back. The suspension system is provided with at least one support structure and, arranged on the support structure, at least one of the components of a group that includes a shaft on which one or several winches are rotatably arranged; a pull rod system; and one or several deflection rollers, wherein for transfer of the exercise elements from the position of use into the rest position and back the support structure or the pull rod system can be changed in relation to a spatial position by means of at least one drive, with which the support structure or the pull rod system is in operative connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Uwe Roth
  • Publication number: 20180015381
    Abstract: A lawn or garden ornament that utilizes either wind power or a flow of fluid to rotate various structural or spinning elements about multiple axes of rotation. When wind power is used, the spinning elements may rotate in unison about a vertical axis. When a fluid power is used, the spinning elements will additionally rotate independently of each other about a horizontal axis, and will turn in unison about the vertical axis. When fluid power is used, the fluid may additionally be used for watering of a garden as the design of the decorative lawn ornament promotes an even distribution of fluid to the surrounding support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Paul D. MAGUIRE, Frank Qiu
  • Publication number: 20180015382
    Abstract: An eraser comprising an eraser part 1 made from a relatively elastic material having eraser properties, and where the eraser further comprises a connector part 4 made from a relatively firm material, and wherein the connector part 4 has a first connection surface 8 provided with one or more first coupling parts 7 configured for interconnection with another element, and where said connector part 4 is embedded in a cavity 2 arranged in the eraser part 1 in such a way that said first connection surface 8 faces away from said cavity 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Arnaud DUBREUIL
  • Publication number: 20180015383
    Abstract: A gyrating disc is disclosed having a circular and flat shape with an edge extending perpendicularly around its circumference. The gyrating disc has a weight on the interior or exterior of the edge, or between the center and the edge. When the gyrating disc is launched in a clockwise or counterclockwise manner, the disc achieves a gyrating flight, moving on its horizontal plane and stable at the vertical axis established in the center of the disc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Neil Barone
  • Publication number: 20180015384
    Abstract: A lawn or garden ornament having an inner frame and an outer frame. The outer frame is to receive a fluid such that at least one first orifice arranged therein is to discharge a portion of the fluid in a first direction outwardly therefrom to cause rotation of the outer frame, and at least one second orifice arranged therein is to discharge a portion of the fluid in a second direction inwardly therefrom to contact a surface of inner frame and thereby cause rotation of the inner frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Paul D. Maguire, Gregory C. Lin, Fei Qiu
  • Publication number: 20180015385
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for vaporizing liquid from a liquid source into the surrounding environment, where the apparatus comprises at least one manifold comprising at least one liquid port formed by a through-hole and at least one flow channel, wherein the liquid port is in fluid communication with the liquid source and the flow channel. The methods and apparatus includes at least one vaporization port in a planar structure connecting a first side of the structure to a second side, that is in fluid communication with the at least one flow channel and the surrounding environment, wherein fluid flow through the liquid and vaporization ports is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the structure, and the flow channels are substantially parallel to the plane of the structure. The methods and apparatus further includes at least one heating element that is in thermal communication to the at least one vaporization port and at least one flow channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: Numerical Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl D. Meinhart, Brian Piorek, Nicholas B. Judy
  • Publication number: 20180015386
    Abstract: An evaporation device including an agitation vessel to which raw material liquid is supplied. The agitation vessel has a volatile component outlet and a concentrate outlet, a jacket provided on an outer circumference and configured to heat an inner wall, and a liquid-distributing portion configured to cause the raw material liquid to flow down the inner wall. The agitation vessel includes storage portion surrounded by a bottom, the inner wall, and a partition wall portion configured to temporarily store the raw material liquid that flows down, the liquid-distributing portion is constituted by a rotating shaft and at least one channel part having a flow passage which, as the rotating shaft rotates, the raw material liquid temporarily stored in the storage portion flows upward from a lower side of the agitation vessel. The channel part is mounted to the rotating shaft, and the concentrate outlet is provided in the bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: TADAHIRO MUKAIDA, HIROSHI YAMAJI, HIDEO NODA
  • Publication number: 20180015387
    Abstract: The disclosed system and method of forming a solution for use with a base to form a product includes identifying various characteristics of the base the solution is to be used with, various product characteristics, including the use of the product and the device employed to use the product. Additionally, the solution can be formed based on one or more user experience characteristics of the base, to optimize a user's experience with the resultant product while considering the characteristics and/or properties of the base and the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Andrew Jones
  • Publication number: 20180015388
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a launder (1) to be used in co-operation with a solvent extraction settler (2) comprises manufacturing at the site of manufacture, such as in an engineering workshop, a plurality of self-supporting launder element modules (3), each having exterior dimensions, strength and handling and securing means (4) conforming to shipping container standards, transporting the launder element modules (3) to the site of installation as normal freight by transport equipment, such as trucks, trailers and container ships, capable of handling and transporting shipping container standard compatible units, and assembling at the site of installation the launder element modules (3) into a module group (5) forming a complete launder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: OUTOTEC (FINLAND) OY
    Inventors: Jussi VAARNO, Rami SAARIO, Henri FREDRIKSSON
  • Publication number: 20180015389
    Abstract: A chromatography column comprises a 2-axis inclinometer for determining or monitoring the orientation the axial verticality of the column tube or of a column component such as a piston. A column inclinometer may be mounted on the column. A piston inclinometer may be mounted on the piston. Outputs from the inclinometer may be fed to a programmable logic controller and used to control the operation of the column, e.g. by adjusting a support stand of the column, or controlling a piston drive mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: Biotechflow Ltd
    Inventor: Martin John Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20180015390
    Abstract: A separator (e.g. an impact centrifugal separator) is for use in collection of liquid portions of a bi-phasic flowstream in a supercritical fluid system. A separator chamber defines an interior space, surrounded by a spiral channel and that has an exit at a lower portion of the separator chamber. A flowstream director (e.g. an entry lube) focuses the flowstream so that the flowstream impacts a wail of the spiral channel at an angle that promotes coalescence of the liquid component. The spiral channel may promote further coalescence of the liquid portions within the constraining spiral channel after impact. A central director may be included in the interior space of the separator chamber to promote flow of the gaseous component toward the exit. A dripper may be included in fluid communication with the spiral channel, for example, in the exit and to direct the coalesced liquid into a collection vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Edwin E. Wikfors
  • Publication number: 20180015391
    Abstract: An hydraulic separator for balancing varying flows in a primary liquid circuit and a secondary liquid circuit includes a housing which defines an inner space, an upper entry and an upper exit located in an upper region of the housing, and a lower entry and a lower exit located in a lower region of the housing. The upper entry and lower exit are constructed to be connected to a primary liquid circuit and the upper exit and lower entry being constructed to be connected to a secondary liquid circuit A fluid communication channel is provided between the upper region and the lower region, such that when in use the flow in the primary or secondary circuit suddenly varies, a leak flow is allowed to occur between the upper entry and lower exit or between the lower entry and upper exit, for balancing the flows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: Flamco B.V.
    Inventors: Jan Henk Cnossen, Terence Arthur Devlin
  • Publication number: 20180015392
    Abstract: Devices for separating a host fluid from a second fluid or particulate are disclosed. The devices include an acoustic chamber, a fluid outlet at a top end of the acoustic chamber, a concentrate outlet at a bottom end of the acoustic chamber, and an inlet on a first side end of the acoustic chamber. An ultrasonic transducer and reflector create a multi-dimensional acoustic standing wave in the acoustic chamber that traps and separates particulates (e.g. cells) from a host fluid. The host fluid is collected via the fluid outlet, and the particulates are collected via the concentrate outlet. The device is a large-scale device that is able to process liters/hour, and has a large interior volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Walter M. Presz, JR., Jeffrey King, Jason Barnes, Dane Mealey, Brian McCarthy, Ben Ross-Johnsrud, Kedar Chitale
  • Publication number: 20180015393
    Abstract: A filter core and manufacturing method thereof, the manufacturing method has the following steps: adhering a wavy filtering sheet and a flat filtering sheet, pressing the filtering sheets, and rolling the filtering sheets. A part of peaks of the wavy filtering sheet are pressed to lean toward a same side. In particular, two sides of a first end sealing adhesive layer are pressed. Thus, the first end sealing adhesive layer is concentrated, such that the glue is uniformly spread to the two sides. Besides, the pressing on the two sides makes the two sides of the first end sealing adhesive layer adhered securely, thereby preventing the wavy filtering sheet from rebounding upward and forming bubbles. Thus, the first end sealing adhesive layer can be formed with less quantity of glue, which accelerating the cooling and raises manufacture efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: Hsiang-Chi LIN
  • Publication number: 20180015394
    Abstract: A filtration system effective to filter bacteria, cysts, and viruses. The small scale filter includes a rigid or semi-rigid core having perforations formed therein, and surrounded by one or more layers of filter media formed into a pleat pack filter arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Richard B. Muir, Dennis M. Clements
  • Publication number: 20180015395
    Abstract: A self-cleaning filter includes a housing disposing a filter media having a permeable sidewall and an axial bore connected with the inlet conduit, a sleeve connected in-line with the axial bore and downstream of the inlet conduit, and a shuttle having a piston moveably disposed in the sleeve and an upstream element carrying a scraper disposed with the axial bore, whereby the hydraulic fluid flows from the inlet conduit through the permeable sidewall into the housing annulus and the hydraulic pressure in the axial bore applies a downward force on the shuttle. The scraper is moved downstream within axial bore to clean the filter media when the downward force due to the increased differential pressure across the filter media exceeds an upstream shuttle force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventors: Jerome Prost, Hy Phan, Stephen Thompson, Soufiane Halily
  • Publication number: 20180015396
    Abstract: An oil filter with drain mechanism comprises a canister having a continuous wall, a closed end and an open end; a filter element; a means for retaining the filter element within the canister, the means for retaining the filter closing the canister open end; a means for sealing the oil filter against a surface, the means for sealing attached to the means for retaining the filter element; a means for attaching the oil filter to the surface; and a drain valve to drain fluid accumulated in the oil filter from the filter. Another embodiment includes an oil filter and a separate drain valve, which can be attached to the filter prior to the filter's removal from a surface, such as an engine. This embodiment is designed for use where there is limited space for access to a filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Inventor: GLENN HUFF
  • Publication number: 20180015397
    Abstract: A water purifying filter for a refrigerator includes a filter, an inner housing to accommodate the filter therein and an outer housing to accommodate the inner housing therein. An outer surface of the inner housing and an inner surface of the outer housing are spaced apart from each other to form an insulation space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2016
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sang Min PARK, Jae Koog AN
  • Publication number: 20180015398
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for preparing a fluidic cartridge for use in an analyzer device. In one non-limiting aspect, the present invention provides a method of preparing a fluidic cartridge for use in an analyzer device. The method may include controlling valves and a vacuum pump of a priming station to evacuate air from a fluidic cartridge loaded in the priming station. The method may include controlling the valves and the vacuum pump to draw priming fluid into sipper wells and channels of the loaded fluidic cartridge. In another non-limiting aspect, the present invention provides a priming station for preparing a fluidic cartridge for use in an analyzer device. The priming station may include a vacuum pump, a priming manifold assembly, and a controller. The priming manifold assembly may be configured to interface with a fluidic cartridge loaded in the priming station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2017
    Publication date: January 18, 2018
    Applicant: Canon U.S. Life Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Mull, Owen Lu, Eric Schneider, Collin Grimes, Jamie Kendall, Franklin Francis Regan, IV, Ralph McCann, Scott Sundberg, Makoto Ogusu, Sean Ison, Jared Spaniol, Shulin Zeng, Ivor Knight