Abstract: An advanced composite flywheel hub and associated method are described for use in a flywheel rotor assembly that includes a shaft and a rim. The hub includes a shaft engaging portion and a rim engaging portion, and is configured for maintaining engagement with the shaft and the rim during operational rotation of the flywheel rotor assembly. The hub exhibits a bending mode, and includes a first layer having axial fibers for stiffening the hub with respect to the bending mode. The hub can further include a stiffening arrangement for increasing the radial stiffness of the shaft engaging portion.

Abstract: Tank filler neck and method for producing the tank filler neck. The tank filler neck includes a smooth-walled pipe and a flange molded onto the pipe that is arranged on at least one end of the pipe.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for phase transformation in molecular solids and the use of high-energy mills of said method.

Abstract: A multi-layered fiber reinforced sheet for automotive vehicle interior structural components includes, in an exemplary embodiment, a permeable fiber reinforced thermoplastic core layer having a first surface and a second surface. The core layer includes a plurality of reinforcing fibers bonded together with a thermoplastic resin, and has a density of about 0.1 gm/cc to about 1.8 gm/cc. The multi-layered fiber reinforced sheet also includes at least one first reinforcing skin applied to the first surface of the core layer, and at least one second reinforcing skin applied to the second surface of the core layer. Each first and second reinforcing skin includes a matrix of reinforcing fibers and a thermoplastic resin wherein the matrix of reinforcing fibers applied to the first surface are arranged in a bi-directional orientation and the matrix of reinforcing fibers applied to the second surface are arranged in a bi-directional orientation.

Abstract: A method of molding an optical component which includes providing a first mold and a second mold which mold the optical component, a cylindrical body whose rotational symmetry axis is identical with a second symmetry axis about which a second mold is rotationally symmetric, a trunk mold whose rotational symmetry axis is identical with a first symmetry axis about which a first mold is rotationally symmetric, a supporting means which supports the first mold in such a way that the first mold moves relatively to the trunk mold in parallel with the first symmetry axis, and a second tapered surface and a first tapered surface which contacts the second tapered surface, which connect the cylindrical body with the trunk mold in such a way that the second symmetry axis is identical with the first symmetry axis.

Abstract: A coating film (43) in which a plurality of fluoric resin particles (45) are dispersed in a matrix resin (44) is formed on the surface of a base material (41). Each exposed part (45a) of the fluoric resin particles (45) which is exposed at the surface of the coating film (43) is crushed to expand therearound to increase the area of the exposed part, increasing the amount of a fluorine element existing in a sliding face portion.

Abstract: An air spring having an airsleeve, wherein at least one layer of said airsleeve includes the vulcanization product of a vulcanizable composition including an elastomer and a non-ionic surfactant.

Abstract: The method of making a plastic bench top is a method for manufacturing bench tops having a U-shaped channel formed by flanges depending from opposite sides of an elongated planar member. The bench top is mounted on pedestals, legs or the like. In general, the method includes forming a fold line by machining or by heating along the lateral edges of the elongated planar member to define flanges, folding the flanges so that the flanges are orthogonal to the planar member, and welding or fusing the joint, if necessary. Alternatively, discrete flange members may be heated simultaneously with the elongated lateral edges of the planar member, the heating element is withdrawn from between the flange and the planar member, and the flange is butted against the longitudinal edge to form a butt weld.

Abstract: Thermoplastic polymers, rubbery polymeric components and reinforcing fillers are mixed and heated to a range of 380° F. to 440° F. The resulting mixture is then fed into a Banbury mixer, with the resulting mixture fed into a diverter feeding two molds. The velocity of the piston of each mold being filled is controlled to thereby control the density of the molded product along its length. As each mold is filled, it is deposited in a cool water bath (50° F.-60° F.) while the next mold is being filled. The molds are sequentially transferred to an air cooling rack to complete the process. A texture, generally comprising indentations perpendicular to the longitudinal axis on the molded object, provides a frictional surface between the railway crosstie and the ballast beneath the crosstie.

Abstract: The invention relates to Polymer composition comprising at least 50 wt. % of a copolyester elastomer and at least 0.7 wt. % of a grease, an oil and/or a wax component, relative to the total weight of the polymer composition. The invention also relates to a plastic tube comprising at least an outer surface layer consisting of said polymer composition, and an automotive brake system, comprising a stretched plastic tube comprising the said plastic tube and a hose fitting inserted into an end-part of the said plastic tube.

Abstract: A surface support structure is provided with at least one cell having a plurality of upright walls. A first wall of the plurality of upright walls has a recessed portion forming at least a portion to allow extension and contraction in multiple directions of the at least one cell. The plurality of upright walls of the at least one cell define a perimeter such that the recessed portion extends towards a second wall of the plurality of upright walls and is within the perimeter.

Abstract: An elongated building element (14) to form a series of walls (10) to (13). The elements (14) each have longitudinally extending flanges (21) that snap engage with longitudinally extending grooves (19) in the next adjacent element (14). Accordingly the wall (10) is constructed by joining the elements (14) in a direction transverse their general direction of extension. If so required the elements (14) may be filled with concrete.

Abstract: A method of producing a fast-melt tablet comprises the steps of forming a mixture of components, the mixture comprising at least one fast dissolving sugar alcohol, at least one disintegrant or osmotic agent, and at least one an active component, blending the mixture for a period of time, and directly compressing the blended mixture at a compression force of typically between 5 and 2O kN to form the fast-melt tablet. The process of the invention does not involve any granulation step, thereby making the process more energy efficient and cost effective. The fast dissolving sugar alcohol is selected from the group comprising: mannitol; sorbitol; erythritol; xylitol; lactose; dextrose; and sucrose, and comprises at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, and more preferably at least 70%, of the tablet (w/w). The active component is suitably provided in the form of microparticles or microcapsules having an average diameter of less than 125 microns.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bearing material of a medical implant, which is an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composite. The composite comprises, for example, UHMWPE and a polyethylene copolymer having a polymer backbone and pendant hydrophilic groups or pendant surface active agents that are attached to the polymer backbone. Also disclosed are methods for preparing bearing materials. The bearing material has one or more advantageous properties including reduced immune response, reduced wear, and/or increased lubrication.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of embossing a cured silicone resin thermoset substrate to imprint patterns onto the substrate from a master mold comprising (i) stacking a master mold with a cured silicone resin thermoset substrate such that the surface of the master mold containing a feature is facing the silicone resin substrate; (ii) applying pressure to the product of (i) in a press at a temperature slightly higher than the Tg of the silicone resin but lower than the softening point of the master mold; (iii) cooling the product of (ii) and maintaining the pressure on the mold; and (iv) releasing the substrate whereby the feature is imprinted on the silicone resin substrate. Cured silicone resin thermoset substrates offer advantages over the organic thermoplastics in terms of hot embossing lithography by offering a very smooth surface which promotes high fidelity of replication in the micrometer and manometer domain, and requiring no release agent for demolding.

Abstract: An elastomeric stamp is used to deposit material on a non-planar substrate. A vacuum mold is used to deform the elastomeric stamp and pressure is applied to transfer material from the stamp to the substrate. By decreasing the vacuum applied by the vacuum mold, the elasticity of the stamp may be used to apply this pressure. Pressure also may be applied by applying a force to the substrate and/or the stamp. The use of an elastomeric stamp allows for patterned layers to be deposited on a non-planar substrate with reduced chance of damage to the patterned layer.

Abstract: Subcutaneous implants obtained by extrusion containing an active ingredient dispersed in a PLGA matrix obtained by grinding an extruded product consisting of a blend of: at least two PLGA having different lactic acid/glycolic acid molar ratios and different weight average molecular weights, or a PLGA and PLA having different weight average molecular weight.

Abstract: Cup for the preparation of a liquid product, having a first chamber part (25) for holding a preparation substance, an inlet opening provided with a covering layer (16) with liquid-permeable perforations (17, 18, 19) for receiving a liquid suitable for the preparation substance, an outlet opening (24) for discharging the prepared beverage or dish, and a static mixer (5) which is in liquid communication with the outlet opening (24). The static mixer (5) is a multi-step mixer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a simple and economical process for preparation of metal-coated non-metallic nano/micro particles. The nano/micro particles are composed of a core and metallic coat over the core using silver or other transition/noble metals. The core of the non-metallic nano/micro particles are selected from inorganic material such as silica, calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, or emulsion grade polyvinyl chloride and other polymers prepared by emulsion process including porous polymers. The metal coating is selected from the transition/noble metals such as copper, nickel, silver, palladium, platinum, osmium, ruthenium, rhodium, and such other metals and their combinations that are easily reducible to elemental metal.

Abstract: A sunroof system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. The sunroof system includes a draintube for expelling fluid that enters the sunroof system from an exterior of the motor vehicle. A section of the draintube may have a one-piece configuration that includes a first portion and a second portion with different cross-sectional shapes. In some configurations, the second portion may have a lesser thickness than the first portion, and the second portion may be located within a pillar of the motor vehicle. In further configurations, the second portion may be located within a pillar of the motor vehicle and adjacent to an airbag component of the motor vehicle. In manufacturing the draintube, a portion of the tube may be heated and compressed to convert a circular cross-section to a non-circular cross-section.

Abstract: A method for producing a machine direction and cross-machine direction elastic laminate includes the steps of providing a one direction elastic laminate material including at least one elastic layer and one facing layer and having a single direction of elasticity and coursing the one direction elastic laminate material through at least one stretching apparatus, such that the stretching apparatus stretches the laminate material in a direction perpendicular to the single direction of elasticity of the elastic laminate material, thereby producing a material that extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of elasticity and also extends the elastic performance of the laminate in the single direction of elasticity.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a polycarbonate copolymer comprising A) a structure derived from a dihydroxy alkylene oxide compound selected from the group consisting of formula (1a) and formula (1b): H-(E-X)l—OH??(1a) H-(E-X-E)l-OH??(1b) wherein E and X are different and each and independently are selected from the group consisting of formula (2a) and formula (2b): —(OCH2CH2)m—??(2a) —(OCHRCH2)n—??(2b) wherein R is a C1-8 alkyl group; l, m, and n are integers greater than or equal to 1; and wherein the weight average molecular weight of the total amount of the structures corresponding to formula (2b) in the copolymer is between 100 and 2,000 g/mol; and B) a structure derived from a dihydroxy aromatic compound, wherein the weight percentages are based on the total weight of the structures of A) and B).

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for making shapeable composite materials or shaped articles from recycled materials comprising forming a crumb slurry by, in any order, increasing the particle size of a composition comprising white water waste from one or more emulsion or dispersion polymer and combining the white water waste polymer with one or more waste thermoset material, preferably, ground tire rubber (GTR), and, then processing the combined material wet or dry as a thermoplastic to form the composite material or article. Additionally, shaped articles and composite materials can be made from substantially all recycled waste materials, such as white water waste from acrylic or vinyl polymer emulsions and waste rubber vulcanizates. The composite materials can consist essentially of reshapeable materials, i.e. without crosslinking agents, thermosettable compositions or compatibilizers to provide reshapeable or recyclable articles.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a polycarbonate copolymer comprising A) a structure derived from a dihydroxy alkylene oxide compound selected from the group consisting of formula (1a) and formula (1b): H-(E-X)l—OH??(1a) H-(E-X-E)l-OH??(1b) wherein E and X are different and each and independently are selected from the group consisting of formula (2a) and formula (2b): —(OCH2CH2)m—??(2a) —(OCHRCH2)n—??(2b) wherein R is a C1-8 alkyl group; l, m, and n are integers greater than or equal to 1; and wherein the weight average molecular weight of the total amount of the structures corresponding to formula (2b) in the copolymer is between 100 and 2,000 g/mol; and B) a structure derived from a dihydroxy aromatic compound, wherein the weight percentages are based on the total weight of the structures of A) and B).

Abstract: The process comprises insertion of an element in tiles by cementing, the element being obtained by sinking organic or inorganic objects into a transparent matrix made using polyester trivalent, acrylic, or epoxy resin, and a subsequent hermetic crystallization of the organic or inorganic element in the transparent matrix. The system for fixing the element in the tile can be done using a paper lattice and glass fibre with silicone glue or hot-gluing done on the back of the tile, or by simple cementing between the lateral surface the transparent element and the lateral surface of the recess made in the tile. The fixture can comprise a further stage of decorative and fixture-coating on the visible side of the tile. The invention can be applied on colored two-faces tiles so that the insert, thanks to the fact that it is transparent, can be visible on both sides.

Abstract: A composition comprises a blend of 50 to 90 wt. % of a polycarbonate copolymer, 10 to 50 wt. % of a polyester wherein the weight percent of the polycarbonate copolymer and the polyester are each based on the total weight of the polycarbonate copolymer and the polyester. A molded sample of the composition having a thickness of 2.5 mm has a luminous transmittance of greater than 80% and a haze of less than 20% when measured in accordance with ASTM D 1003.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a PVC product containing cyclodextrin derivative particles and capable of suppressing migration of a plasticizer and a method for manufacturing the same, which includes (S1) preparing cyclodextrin derivative particles, in which a hydroxyl functional group is replaced by a predetermined compound; (S2) inputting the cyclodextrin derivative particles, a water-based dispersion medium and a vinyl chloride monomer into a high-pressure reactor and performing polymerization to obtain cyclodextrin derivative particles-capsulated PVC particles, in which a plurality of the cyclodextrin derivative particles are dispersedly capsulated in PVC particles; and (S3) mixing the cyclodextrin derivative particles-capsulated PVC particles with a low molecular weight liquid plasticizer and molding the mixture in a predetermined shape using heat.

Abstract: This invention relates to resilient product including a relatively soft workding section (2) secured to a surface of a relatively hard interlayer (4). An opposed surface of the interlayer (4) includes a mounting section (3) which functions to secure the resilient product to a support. The resilient product is particularly suitable for providing a sealing member or a resilient mounting member. The ability of the resilient product to be secured to a support, and remain secured to that support is a particular advantage.

Abstract: A holding sealing material includes a mat body. The mat body includes a first inorganic fiber and a second inorganic fiber. The first inorganic fiber contains about 60% by weight or more of alumina. The second inorganic fiber contains about 67% by weight or more of silica. The first inorganic fiber and the second inorganic fiber are in a mixed state.

Abstract: A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.

Abstract: A mat for simulating natural terrain for use in an indoors display is the subject of this invention. The mat comprises a sheet of water impervious resinous material, a water base latex emulsion coating applied to the resinous material and a quantity of terrain simulating particles which are adhered to the sheet by the dried coating. The particles are fixed to the sheet by a sealant which is sprayed on the particles after the coating has dried. The particles may comprise flocking, ground foam rubber or rigid solid pieces. The invention also encompasses a method of preparing a simulated natural terrain utilizing the mat as afore described. This method includes outlining desired terrain features, applying water to the outlined area, scraping the substrate to remove particles from the outlined area and then coloring the area.

Abstract: A carbon fiber composite sheet obtained by combining a carbon fiber aggregate with a thermosetting resin component selected from the group consisting of thermosetting silicone-based gel components, thermosetting epoxy resin components and thermosetting silicone resin components, and then curing the thermosetting resin component, the carbon fiber composite sheet having crystallite sizes of at least 5 nm in the direction of growth of the hexagonal mesh surface of the carbon fibers composing the carbon fiber aggregate, and the carbon fiber composite sheet having a thermal conductivity of at least 2 W/(m·K).

Abstract: The Temporary Skin Substitute of this invention consists of three components: The top component is a thin (approximately 0.001? thick) silicone elastomer in which laser holes have been drilled; physically attached to the silicone elastomer is a fine knitted nylon fabric (12/1, 15/1 denier); incorporated into the silicone/nylon structure are collagen peptides [about 10 micrograms per square centimeter of Porcine type 1—“the active component”] without cross-linking agent to enable a quick interaction with fibrin in the wound to achieve acute adherence. The laser drilled holes provide a wide range of porosity to ensure minimum fluid accumulation beneath the Temporary Skin Substitute without wound desiccation. The range of hole diameters preferred in the present invention is 0.75 mm to 1.05 mm and at holes centered at ¼?-??.

Abstract: An object is to prevent a disk substrate from warping to thereby improve the quality of the disk substrate. A disk molding mold includes a first support plate; a first mirror surface disk attached to the first support plate; a second support plate; and a second mirror surface disk attached to the second support plate and facing the first mirror surface disk. At least one of the first and second mirror surface disks comprises a first plate, and a second plate disposed to surround at least a front surface of the first plate. The first plate comprises a temperature control flow passage (93, 94) formed on a surface thereof facing the first support plate. The second plate comprises a heat insulation section formed on a surface thereof facing the first plate such that the heat insulation section corresponds to the temperature control flow passage (93, 94). Since the distribution of heat in the first and second plates is made uniform, a molding material within a cavity can be cooled uniformly.

Abstract: A crate includes a bottom wall including a plurality of dividers defining a plurality of container pockets and a peripheral wall extending upward from a periphery of the bottom wall. The bottom wall and peripheral wall are thermoformed from a single sheet of plastic, such as recycled PET bottles. Optional features include stabilizing feet, a peripheral lip that prevents shingling and flexible retainers protruding into the pockets to provide a tighter fit with bottles.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can provide systems and methods for providing an artificial grass system. One embodiment of the invention can provide an artificial grass system with a woven tubular-shaped fabric and tufted artificial turf yarn. For example, the woven tubular-shaped fabric can be made from at least two types of yarn with different shrink characteristics. Various embodiments of the invention can provide improved drainage, shock absorbency, load displacement, and dimensional stability characteristics for an artificial grass or turf system.

Abstract: A flow control tip for a catheter comprises a partition dividing the catheter into first and second lumens, a first orifice fluidly connected to the first lumen and a second orifice fluidly connected to the second lumen, the first orifice being proximal to the second orifice, an elongate protrusion extending along a portion of the partition substantially along a centerline of the elongated body and a deflecting surface extending at an angle relative to the protrusion to direct flow from the first orifice away from the centerline.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a receiving member which accommodates a display panel which displays an image. The receiving member includes an insulated body portion having a bottom plate and sidewalls to define a receiving space, and at least one ground metal portion provided at a region of the insulated body portion, the at least one ground metal portion formed integrally with the insulated body portion. Accordingly, the body portion of the receiving member is formed of an insulated material, thereby reducing the weight of the receiving member and improving heat radiation. Further, a local metal portion is provided in the receiving member, thereby improving electromagnetic interference (“EMI”) and electrostatic discharge performances of elements such as a control board.

Abstract: Several embodiments of plastic dumpsters with improved strength and durability are disclosed. In one embodiment, gussets connect pockets to bevel walls, connecting the side walls to front and rear walls of the dumpster. The bevel walls are stronger than the side walls of the dumpster. Other embodiments disclose gussets integral with front and rear walls of the dumpster for improved strength. Other embodiments disclose removable, separately formed sleeves that are secured to the sides of the dumpster to form pockets for receiving the forks of a truck.

Abstract: The invention provides a cardiovascular occluder for treating a cardiovascular abnormality comprising a frame and an alarmin or an alarmin activator bound to the surface of the frame. The invention further provides methods of manufacturing the cardiovascular occluder and methods of treating cardiovascular abnormalities by delivering the cardiovascular occluder.

Abstract: A process and method for recycling cigarette butts is disclosed. The process and method involves reacting ground cigarette butts with a solvent and mineral spirits and then shaping and drying the resultant product. Once the processed cigarette butts have hardened or cured the material may be formed into useful objects with no leaching of chemicals upon contact with water.

Abstract: An environmentally friendly container, made from recycled material. The container can be made with post-consumer waste paper. A coating can be applied to the container to enhance moisture resistance. The recycled material can include an additive for structural integrity and/or moisture resistance.

Abstract: A method of reshaping an article comprising a polyelectrolyte complex, the polyelectrolyte complex comprising an intermolecular blend of a predominantly positively-charged polyelectrolyte and a predominantly negatively charged polyelectrolyte by controlling the salt doping level.

Abstract: An optical reagent format with a precise capillary channel is made by molding a format on a carrier of a precise predetermined thickness. The carrier includes an insert at least a portion of which is molded in the format. Once the format is made, the insert is detached from the carrier and removed from the format leaving a precisely dimensioned capillary channel with an inlet and vent. A reagent may be applied in the capillary channel and the format used to measure the analyte in a fluid such as blood. An electrochemical sensor with a capillary channel is formed by placing a sacrificial insert and electrodes on a sensor base and applying plastic material. After the plastic material is cured, the sacrificial is removed leaving a capillary channel in the sensor. The inserts may be removed by a tool including a clamp for clamping and holding each insert stationary and a sliding block to which the sensor is secured.

Abstract: Provided are ethylene-based polymer compositions, articles made therefrom, and methods of making the same. Ethylene-based polymer compositions include linear low density polyethylene prepared with metallocene catalyst, which may optionally have about 5 mole percent or less of monomer units derived from an alpha-olefin comonomer. Ethylene-based polymer compositions include blends of linear low density polyethylene and one or more very low density polyethylene compositions, one or more low density polyethylene compositions, one or more medium density polyethylene compositions, one or more high density polyethylene compositions, one or more differentiated polyethylene compositions, or other conventional polymers. Articles composed of such ethylene-based polymer compositions are prepared according to a process window, e.g., at a specific extrusion rates, which provides favorable physical properties, including tear resistance and dart drop properties.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, wherein in at least one dimension of the electrophoresis, the functional core part thereof is formed essentially of Corian material. Furthermore, at least one electrode is preferably designed in a mobile manner in the first dimension, so that it can be adapted to varying lengths of gel.

Abstract: A method and associated apparatus for forming a composite structural member from a charge are provided. The charge can be disposed on a first die of the apparatus and formed to a desired configuration defined by a recess of the die by inserting a second die or a tool into the recess. In some cases, the first die can include two portions that are adjustable in a transverse direction so that the recess can be opened by the insertion of the second die or tool. The second die or tool can be a substantially rigid member or an inflatable bladder. In either case, the charge can be disposed on the first die, formed, and then further processed on the first die, thereby facilitating indexing of the charge for each operation.

Abstract: A grommet for use in a panel. The grommet including a panel mounting portion that seats in a hole defined in the panel. The panel mounting portion has a bearing surface. A textured layer is disposed on at least a part of the bearing surface to help reduce friction between the bearing surface and the panel as they contact each other when the grommet is installed in the panel.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for fabricating a stent using a preheating stage. The inventors have found a fabrication methods that result in the same and/or better product quality stent using a single step process performed at a temperature of below 65° C., more preferably below 60° C., most preferably below 55° C. Stent fabrication under such reduced temperature conditions reduces the exposure of the stent to adverse temperature conditions, thereby enabling the greater retention of the polymer's memory. Further, upon expansion, the stent does not contract to a smaller diameter but instead remains at a constant diameter or increases to a larger diameter.

Abstract: A method for permanently deforming a flexible film material, in which the film material is deformed, forming a receptacle depression, the film material being kept under controlled tension while it is being moulded, so that controlled creases are formed in the film material, and a method of manufacturing a product packed in flexible film material, especially a food product, using the method and device for permanently deforming a flexible film material.