Abstract: A catheter assembly includes: a catheter; and an inner needle inserted through the catheter. The catheter includes: a catheter body; and a flexible portion that is located at a distal portion of the catheter body and forms a most distal portion of the catheter. An elastic modulus of the catheter body is greater than an elastic modulus of the flexible portion. The catheter has a mixed region in which the catheter body and the flexible portion overlap each other in a radial direction.

Abstract: A method of activating the shrink characteristic of multi-layered film (1), the method comprising the steps of providing a multi-layered film comprising at least a base layer film (2) that comprises a shrinkable film, a photothermic layer (3), associated with the base layer film, and comprising a photothermic material, exposing the multi-layered film (1) to electromagnetic radiation in order for the photothermic material to generate heat and shrink the multi-layered film (1), wherein the electromagnetic radiation comprises UV-light having a peak wavelength between 200 nm and 399 nm, and at least 90% of the UV-light is within a bandwidth of ±30 nm of the peak wavelength.

Abstract: A die matrix expander includes a subring including ?3 pieces, and a wafer frame supporting a dicing tape having an indentation for receiving pieces of the subring. The subring prior to expansion sits below a level of the wafer frame and has an outer diameter <an inner diameter of the wafer frame. A translation guide coupled to the subring driven by mechanical force applier moves the subring pieces in an angled path upwards and outwards for stretching the dicing tape including to a top most stretched position above the wafer frame that is over or outside the wafer frame. A cap placed on the pieces of the subring after being fully expanded over the dicing tape locks the dicing tape in the top most stretched position and secures the pieces of the expanded subring in place including when within the indentation during an additional expansion during a subsequent die pick operation.

Abstract: A resin supply material used for press molding or vacuum-pressure molding of a fiber-reinforced resin, the resin supply material including a continuous porous material and a thermosetting resin, wherein an average pore cross-sectional area ratio P expressed by formula (I) is 1.1 or more: P=AII/AI??(I) AI: average pore cross-sectional area in region I AII: average pore cross-sectional area in region II Region I: region occupying 10% of total volume of continuous porous material from surface layer on both surfaces thereof Region II: whole region of continuous porous material.

Abstract: A medical device includes a balloon expanded scaffold (or stent) crimped to a catheter having a balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes using protective polymer sheaths or sheets during crimping, and resetting the sheaths or sheets during the crimping to avoid or minimize interference between the polymer material and scaffold struts as the scaffold is reduced in size. Balloon pressure is adjusted when the polymer material is reset.

Abstract: An apparatus for expanding chips of a wafer, wherein the apparatus comprises an expansion mechanism configured for expanding a tape on which the chips of the wafer are arranged, and an inflation mechanism configured for inflating at least a part of an edge portion of the tape so that part of the edge portion approaches a frame.

Abstract: Protective coverings herein have a coated woven material with a first edge parallel with a warp direction and a second edge opposite the first edge, and have a first edge band proximate the first edge and a second edge band proximate the second edge. The coated woven material has a woven scrim made of a plurality of weft tapes and a plurality of warp tapes, but the warp tapes positioned in the first and second edge bands are high-shrinkage warp tapes and the warp tapes positioned in between the first and second edge bands have a shrinkage that is less than a shrinkage of the high-shrinkage warp tapes, and has a coating on at least one major surface of the woven scrim. The plurality of high-shrinkage warp tapes shrink upon application of heat. Methods of covering a load, such as stacked lumber, with the protective covering are also disclosed.

Abstract: A base film for sheets for semiconductor wafer processing, comprising a resin layer (A) and a resin layer (B) laminated on one surface of the resin layer (A), wherein one surface of the base film for sheets for semiconductor wafer processing comprises a surface of the resin layer (B), the resin layer (A) contains a thermoplastic elastomer having a Vicat softening point of 50° C. or higher and 87° C. or lower, the resin layer (B) contains a thermoplastic elastomer having a Vicat softening point of 91° C. or higher and 220° C. or lower, and a thickness t of the base film for sheets for semiconductor wafer processing and a thickness tA of the resin layer (A) satisfy the Formulae (1) t?150 ?m and (2) tA/t?78%.

Abstract: A cooling sheet for photovoltaic modules, a method of manufacturing the same, a backsheet for photovoltaic modules, a method of manufacturing the same, and a photovoltaic module are provided. The cooling sheet for photovoltaic modules which includes a resin layer can be prepared by coating or impregnating one surface of a porous substrate with a super-absorbent polymer (SAP) containing a fluid. Here, the resin layer includes the fluid-containing SAP which is formed on one surface of the porous substrate or impregnated with the porous substrate. When the cooling sheet for photovoltaic modules is attached to the outside of the weather-resistant substrate to prepare the backsheet for photovoltaic modules, it is possible to suppress an increase in power generation temperature of a photoelectric cell by evaporation of the fluid, for example water, included in the SAP, thereby improving the power generation efficiency of the photovoltaic module.

Abstract: Wipes dispensers for dispensing interconnected wipes. An exemplary wipes dispenser may include a container body and a removable lid forming an interior region into which a plurality of interconnected wipes may be disposed. Pulling on a lead end of a lead wipe causes a following wipe to also be pulled and follow the lead wipe. The removable lid may cover at least a portion of the container aperture. A landing member in the lid covers at least a portion of the container aperture by extending from a top rim of the container body toward the middle of the interior region. A gripping channel may be provided through the landing member, through which the lead end of the lead wipe may be threaded. The landing member may include a concavely shaped portion. The landing member may include a thickened portion, e.g., surrounding the gripping channel.

Abstract: Laminated articles comprised of glass core and clad layers, more specifically, to compressively stressed laminated articles comprising a glass core sandwiched between first and second clad layers, the clad layers being formed from photosensitive glass.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a thermoresponsive adhesive material. The material comprises a linear, phase-separated polymer having fluorinated polymer units and hydrophobic polymer units. The fluorinated polymer units and the hydrophobic polymer units are randomly ordered along the polymer. The hydrophobic polymer units include a first hydrophobic polymer unit and a second hydrophobic polymer unit. The first hydrophobic polymer unit is chosen from acrylate units or methacrylate units each substituted with one or more linear alkyl groups, linear alkenyl groups or a combination thereof, where at least one of the linear alkyl groups or alkenyl groups has 16 to 20 carbon atoms. The second hydrophobic polymer unit is chosen from acrylate units or methacrylate units each substituted with one or more linear alkyl groups, linear alkenyl groups or a combination thereof, where at least one of the linear alkyl or alkenyl groups of the second hydrophobic polymer unit has 5 to 14 carbon atoms.

Abstract: A three-dimensional (3D) integrated circuit (IC) die is provided. In some embodiments, a first IC die comprises a first semiconductor substrate, a first interconnect structure over the first semiconductor substrate, and a first hybrid bond (HB) structure over the first interconnect structure. The first HB structure comprises a HB link layer and a HB contact layer extending from the HB link layer to the first interconnect structure. A second IC die is over the first IC die, and comprises a second semiconductor substrate, a second HB structure, and a second interconnect structure between the second semiconductor substrate and the second HB structure. The second HB structure contacts the first HB structure. A seal-ring structure is in the first and second IC dies. Further, the seal-ring structure extends from the first semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate, and is defined in part by the HB contact layer.

Abstract: The invention relates to container sleeving system and method. Sleeves of heat shrinkable foil are arranged around the container. The sleeves are supplied by ejecting the sleeve from the sleeve supply. Containers are supplied form a container supply. The sleeve supply arranges the sleeve around the container by moving the sleeve upwardly around the container. A heat shrink oven is arranged for fixing the sleeve to the container. A conveyor transports containers.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a decorative molded article includes first to fourth steps. In the first step, a plastic sheet is secured to a cavity block in a state in which first and second portions are arranged along an open end of a molding recess. The plastic sheet is tightly held by the cavity block and a securing member at the first portions and is not tightly held at the second portions. In the second step, the plastic sheet is deformed. In the third step, the plastic sheet is secured to the cavity block in a state in which the plastic sheet is tightly held by the cavity block and the securing member over the entire periphery of the opening of the molding recess. In the fourth step, the plastic sheet is molded by being caused to closely contact the molding surface of the cavity block through vacuum suction.

Abstract: Wipes dispensers for dispensing interconnected wipes. An exemplary wipes dispenser may include a container body and a removable lid forming an interior region into which a plurality of interconnected wipes may be disposed. Pulling on a lead end of a lead wipe causes a following wipe to also be pulled and follow the lead wipe. The removable lid may cover at least a portion of the container aperture. A landing member in the lid covers at least a portion of the container aperture by extending from a top rim of the container body toward the middle of the interior region. A gripping channel may be provided through the landing member, through which the lead end of the lead wipe may be threaded. The landing member may include a concavely shaped portion. The landing member may include a thickened portion, e.g., surrounding the gripping channel.

Abstract: Resin compositions of the invention are capable of effectively impregnating conventional braid forms and comprise at least one relatively low viscosity resin and at least one viscosity modifier. Hot-melt processing of such resin compositions and others imparts additional advantages and processing efficiencies when preparing braid-reinforced composites.

Abstract: Provided are a carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin composition excellent in interfacial adhesion between carbon fiber and a thermoplastic resin and excellent in dynamic characteristics, and a molding material, a prepreg, and a method for producing the same. The carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin composition includes the following components (A) and (B), carbon fiber and a thermoplastic resin; component (A): (A1) a bifunctional or higher functional epoxy compound and/or (A2) an epoxy compound which has a monofunctional or higher epoxy group and has one or more taypes of functional groups selected from a hydroxyl group, an amide group, an imide group, a urethane group, a urea group, a sulfonyl group and a sulfo group; and component (B): 0.

Abstract: Actuators and methods utilizing electrical properties of polymer materials. The actuators have a multilayer structure that includes an electroactive polymer layer between and bonded to first and second electrodes so that the polymer layer has a thickness dimension therebetween. The multilayer structure is adapted so that application of an electric potential to the electrodes causes the electroactive polymer layer to expand in at least one dimension thereof transverse to the thickness dimension of the electroactive polymer layer. The actuators can be used in sealing elements to provide a resealing capability once a condition has occurred of a type that may precede a seal failure.

Abstract: A fluororesin coating layer fusion-bonded directly to a base member or to a rubber layer on a base member can be formed by conducting heating for a significantly short time. A fluororesin-coated roller or belt that has a fluororesin coating layer with few defects and a rubber layer underneath whose thermal deterioration is suppressed is provided. The production method therefor include a step of inserting a base member or a rubber-coated base member including a base member and at least a rubber layer on the outer peripheral surface of the base member into an empty space of a thermally shrinkable fluororesin tube; a preliminary shrinking step conducted according to need; a pressure fusion-bonding step of bringing the base member or rubber-coated base member into contact with a hot plate surface heated to a temperature in a range of 250° C. to 400° C.

Abstract: An electromagnetic shielding method includes the steps of disposing a flexible electromagnetic shielding film including a laminate of at least an insulating layer and a conductive metal layer to cover a portion to be electromagnetically shielded on a printed wiring board so that the insulating layer faces the printed wiring board, the conductive metal layer having a higher melting temperature than that of the insulating resin layer; and heating the electromagnetic shielding film to a temperature to melt and contract the insulating layer, thereby bonding the conductive metal layer to a grounding conductor of the printed wiring board and electrically connecting the conductive metal layer to the grounding conductor. The heating temperature is higher than the melting temperature of the insulating layer and lower than the melting temperature of the conductive metal layer.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of manufacturing an in-mould labelled article, the method comprising the steps of: placing a label comprising a film having a core comprising polypropylene/polyethylene random copolymer as its principal polymeric constituent into a mould for injection moulding, thermoforming, or blow moulding; holding the label in position; injecting a polymeric melt into, or thermoforming or blowing a polymeric preform in said mould so as to bind with the label; and removing the article from the mould. A process of in-mould labelling using such a label is also disclosed.

Abstract: A solvent comprising 40 to 100 wt % of 1,3-dioxolane and 0 to 60 wt % of tetrahydrofuran, wherein the solvent further comprises 30 ppm to 800 ppm of an antioxidant, based on the total weight of the solvent, provides a long shelf life with good adhesive strength even after exposure to air. The solvent can be effectively used for labeling of heat-shrinkable polyester-based labels.

Abstract: The implant includes an outer layer of ePTFE which exhibits extensibility normally not associated with ePTFE. The ePTFE is reduced in length by deforming the fibrils between the nodes while maintaining the nodes in a substantially flat configuration. Various implant configurations that can include the outer layer described are also disclosed.

Abstract: A prong style file fastener, and method of manufacturer, is disclosed which has a protective element to prevent damage to paper documents and personal injury. In one embodiment, the prongs of the fastener is covers with a heat shrinkable sheath. In another, the prongs are overcoated with a powder coating which is melted thereon. A method of applying the sheath to the prongs uses a pair of jaws to drive the sheath onto the prongs. In the case of the powdercoat covering, the production line uses a cam drive sprocket retractor to release the line onto a takeup.

Abstract: A method of making a woven sailcloth comprising the steps of: selecting a first set of yarns comprising at least partially a first type of yarn; selecting a second set of yarns comprising at least partially a second type of yarn; weaving the first set of yarns and the second set of yarns such that the first set of yarns are arranged along a first direction and the second set of yarns are arranged along a second direction which is different from the first direction, choosing a chemical solution which has the property of shrinking the first type of yarn in its longitudinal direction more than the second type of yarn when the first type of yarn and the second type of yarn are exposed to said chemical solution, and exposing the woven sailcloth to said chemical solution. A sailcloth is also disclosed based on said method. A sail made from woven sail cloth is also disclosed. A laminated sailcloth comprising a layer of woven sailcloth is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for medical structure embellishments. The apparatus includes a medical structure that facilitates the mobility or healing of a patient. The apparatus also includes a heat source that outwardly radiates heat. Further, the apparatus includes a shrink-film structure cover that shrinks around a surface of the medical structure when the shrink-film structure cover is exposed to heat radiated from the heat source and a marking instrument adapted to mark the shrink-film structure with an embellishment.

Abstract: To produce a flexible pipe body, a length of tensile armour element (300) of pre-preg composite material is fed towards a fluid-retaining layer (602). The tensile armour element (300) passes through a guide (604) an a pre-heater (606). The tensile armour element (300) is then applied to the fluid-retaining layer (602), being wrapped around the fluid-retaining layer (602) by virtue of the rotation of the layer (602), the linear translation of the layer (602), and the fixed position of the tensile armour element feed (601). The element (300) is fed to the fluid-retaining layer under a constant, predetermined controlled tension. Positioning head (608) helps to position the element (300) on the fluid-retaining layer (602). As tensile armour element is wound onto the pipe body, the pipe body continues to move in a, linear direction and the pipe body moves through an oven (610).

Abstract: A tissue product, which includes a carton and a stack of tissues, is provided with a flattened arched-shaped sheet that supports the stack of tissues. As the tissues are withdrawn from the carton and the weight of the tissue stack is reduced, the flattened arch-shaped sheet gradually assumes its normal arched shape, thereby raising the stack of tissues within the carton. Raising the stack substantially reduces or eliminates “fall-back”, which is a common dispensing problem, as the stack height is reduced.

Abstract: The present invention is a metallized shrinkable label and a method for producing the same. The label of the invention is composed of a shrinkable film base and a graphic. The graphic is created by combining pigmented inks, a metallic coating and a shrink-resistant coating which is printed in a predetermined pattern with gaps so that upon exposure of the label to heat, the gaps close thereby forming a continuous graphic layer. Advantageously, the shrink-resistant coating minimizes discoloration and pleating of the metallic coating.

Abstract: An apparatus for making a conductive element includes an original carbon nanotube film supply unit configured to continuously supply an original carbon nanotube film; a patterned unit configured to form a patterned carbon nanotube film; a solvent treating unit configured to soak the patterned carbon nanotube film to form a carbon nanotube film; a substrate supply unit providing a substrate; a pressing unit configured to generate a pressure on the carbon nanotube film and the substrate and fix the carbon nanotube film on the substrate; and a collecting unit capable of collecting the conductive element. The original carbon nanotube film includes a number of carbon nanotubes extending along a first direction. The patterned carbon nanotube film defines through holes arranged in at least one row in the patterned carbon nanotube film along the first direction, the through holes of each row includes at least two spaced though holes.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: A method is provided for imaging vinyl flooring material. Images are formed on vinyl flooring material having enhanced thermomechanical properties using heat activated imaging methods. Minimum shrinkage of the flooring substrate and minimum image deformation are provided by the invention.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a vacuum insulation panel that improves heat transfer performance while improving durability of a core material and a manufacturing method thereof. The vacuum insulation panel includes a gas-interception sheathing material to cover a core material. The interior of the sheathing material is decompressed so that the sheathing material is hermetically sealed. The core material is formed of a lump of fiber, and the fiber has a hollow part formed therein.

Abstract: Specific composite materials described herein are based on the discovery that certain selections of materials and manufacturing conditions and processes provide unexpectedly improved self-supporting thin-film composite materials. It has been discovered that certain combinations of backing materials, shrink film materials, and manufacturing conditions provide improved composites having highly controllable, readily repeatable, and stable arc shaped cross-web curled structures. In general, the composite materials described herein comprise a dimensionally alterable film such as a polyester shrink film having a first surface and a second surface, and a polyester backing material having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the second surface of the backing material is laminated to the first surface of the dimensionally alterable film.

Abstract: Label facestock and label assemblies utilizing the facestock are described. The label facestock includes impact copolymer polypropylene (ICP). The label facestock is also axially oriented.

Abstract: An electromagnetic shielding method includes the steps of disposing a flexible electromagnetic shielding film including a laminate of at least an insulating layer and a conductive metal layer to cover a portion to be electromagnetically shielded on a printed wiring board so that the insulating layer faces the printed wiring board, the conductive metal layer having a higher melting temperature than that of the insulating resin layer; and heating the electromagnetic shielding film to a temperature to melt and contract the insulating layer, thereby bonding the conductive metal layer to a grounding conductor of the printed wiring board and electrically connecting the conductive metal layer to the grounding conductor. The heating temperature is higher than the melting temperature of the insulating layer and lower than the melting temperature of the conductive metal layer.

Abstract: A hot air tunnel system apparatus comprising a preheating zone, a labeling zone, and a cooling zone with a transporting member provided through the lower parts of said zones to convey a product to be labeled from the preheating zone to the cooling zone, wherein each zone is equipped with fan heaters on both sides and on the bottom thereof, and also equipped with an air circulation system on the top thereof, which can minimize such labeling defects as loose labels, film curl, and irregular shrinkage when polyethylene-based products are labeled with heat-shrinkable labels.

Abstract: A flexible mandrel 100 has a plurality of flexible elements 130 extending between two spaced flanges 110, 120. A means for adjusting the radial position of each of the flexible elements 130 along the length of the mandrel 100 between the flanges 130 enables the plurality of flexible elements 130 to be configured in a variety of symmetrical and asymmetrical forms. Conventional composite fibre or tape laying techniques may then be used to form one-piece, revolute, composite components. The flexible mandrel 100 can then be collapsed and withdrawn from the interior volume 202 of the formed component.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing fabrics with artificial leather textile feeling includes steps of: first, knitting a high shrinkage fiber and a first superfine fiber to form a plurality of warp knitted terries to obtain an upper fabric with a surface and a back surface; next, spraying mists including a plurality of liquid particles composed of a setting resin on the surface of the upper fabric such that the liquid particles adhere to the warp knitted terries; then heating the upper fabric to a processing temperature and rolling the upper fabric through a rolling equipment to set the setting resin to prohibit warping of the warp knitted terries against the surface of the upper fabric, and form a preset pattern thereon; and finally bonding the back surface of the upper fabric to a lower fabric via an adhesive to form an artificial leather fabric with excellent air permeability.

Abstract: Mounting rings and methods for mounting structures to shafts are provided. The rings and methods may be used to mount other rings or housings to a shaft. The rings are characterized by having flexible inner diameters that can deflect under a radial load. The radial deflection of the inner diameter permits the rings to deflect and engage an outer diameter of a shaft. The engagement of the rings with a shaft provides at least some resistance to movement, for example, rotation and/or axial displacement, of the shaft relative to the ring and structure. In one aspect, the ring has a closed, hollow, construction, for example, a circular, oval, or polygonal closed, hollow construction. The ring may include a plurality of indentations, such as slots, on the inside diameter of the ring that may relieve at least some of the circumferential stress in the ring. Methods for using the rings to mount a structure to a shaft are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method of manufacturing ultra-thin and elastic keypad, especially comprising the processing of the elastic film, silicone adhesive, and plastic film. Wherein, the present method simply takes advantage of the steps of printing, oil pressing, and trimming to easily finish the keypad, which favorably avoids the complex process of spraying P+R, deviation from the forming of IMD products, and defectiveness of spraying and cutting applied on silicone products. Manifestly, the present invention simplifies the intricate processes, and only oil-pressing die and punching die are involved, namely less equipment and fewer personnel as well as places are required. Therefore, the present invention is uncomplicated and low-cost.

Abstract: Electronic components on a substrate may be shielded using electromagnetic shielding structures. Insulating materials may be used to provide structural support and to help prevent electrical shorting between conductive materials and the components. The shielding structures may include compartments formed using metal fences that surround selected components or by injection molding plastic. The shielding structures may be formed using metal foil wrapped over the components and the substrate. Electronic components may be tested using test posts or traces to identify components that are faulty. The test posts or traces may be deposited on the substrate and may be used to convey test signals between test equipment and the components. After successful testing, the test posts may be permanently shielded. Alternatively, temporary shielding structures may be used to allow testing of individual components before an electronic device is fully assembled.

Abstract: Balloon catheter and methods for making and using balloon catheters are disclosed. An example balloon catheter may include a proximal shaft. A midshaft may be attached to the proximal shaft. The midshaft may have an outer wall. A distal shaft may be attached to the midshaft. A balloon may be coupled to the distal shaft. An inflation lumen may be defined that extends from the proximal shaft, through the midshaft, and into the distal shaft. The inflation lumen may be in fluid communication with the balloon. A support member may be attached to the outer wall of the midshaft.

Abstract: A tank (1) for storing fluid under high pressure, of cylindrical overall shape and round cross section comprising at each of its ends along its axis (2), a metal end piece (3, 4), a liner (6) enveloping the said end pieces, and a structural layer (7) of fiber impregnated with thermosetting resin enveloping the said liner.

Abstract: An imaging window of an imaging catheter includes a first imaging window section and a second imaging window section. The first imaging window section has a finite length and is formed from a first material having a flexural modulus. The second imaging window section has a finite length and is formed from a second material having a flexural modulus. The flexural modulus of the first material is different than the flexural modulus of the second material.

Abstract: A machine for labelling containers (100), comprising first transport means (2) for positioning at least a container (100) at a time in a labelling position, second transport means (3) for positioning an annular heat-shrinkable label (200) below the at least a container (100) in a labelling position, raising means (50, 52) for raising the label (200) for inserting the label from below onto a container (100) in a labelling position, and dispensing means (51, 53) for investing the label (200) with a hot fluid; the dispensing means (51, 53) being unconstrained to the second transport means (3) such as to be stationary with respect to the labels (200) which advance, activated by the second transport means (3), and are configured such as to perform heat-shrinkage of at least a portion of the label (200) inserted on the at least a container (100) in a labelling position thereon, in which the portion extends over an entire axial development of the label (200).

Abstract: A label for application to a surface having at least one compound curve is provided. The label comprises a heat shrinkable film having an inner surface and outer surface and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface of the heat shrinkable film.

Abstract: The invention provides a nonwoven fabric having good fluid drawing properties, in which fluid hardly remains, a method for producing a nonwoven fabric, and an absorbent article. The nonwoven fabric has a thickness direction and a planar direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, and includes a high density region having a higher fiber density than an average fiber density. The high density region penetrates from one side to another side in the thickness direction.