Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a vehicle roof member, a first panel, a second panel, and a serpentine-shaped reinforcement structure. The first panel connects with and depends downwardly from the vehicle roof member. The second panel connects with the first panel. The first panel and the second panel form, when connected, a vehicle pillar. The serpentine-shaped reinforcement structure includes a plurality of peak sections and a plurality of valley sections and is disposed in the vehicle pillar between the first panel and the second panel. The reinforcement structure is fixed to the first panel via a weld at a peak section. The reinforcement structure is closest to the second panel at a valley section. A method for manufacturing a vehicle body structure is also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention describe optical cable housings including fiber termination units to couple optical fibers components to lenses. As in prior art solutions, embodiments of the invention utilize said fiber termination units to couple and optically align the optical fiber to the lenses; however, embodiments of the invention include flat-sided structures to more securely couple the optical fiber to the lenses; furthermore, said structures are more suitable for mass manufacturing compared to prior art solutions. Discussion herein of connectors and receptacles refers to providing a mechanical and communicative connection. The mating of the connector/receptacle may be facilitated via housing and alignment structural features, and typically includes contact of the electrical contacts and alignment of fiber optical signal transmission elements.

Abstract: A fluid filter media including a first media layer, a second media layer, a filter layer disposed between the first media layer and the second media layer, and a plurality of spaced apart weld points that couple the first media layer, the filter layer, and the second media layer together, where the weld points distort the surface of the first media layer and the second media layer, the fluid filter media is folded back on itself to form a plurality of pleats, and the surface distortions permit fluid flow through the fluid filter media when adjacent surfaces of the fluid filter media touch.

Abstract: A sealed hemmed closure assembly includes an inner panel having a first face and a second face, and an outer panel having a panel portion and a hemming portion. The second face of the inner panel substantially opposes the first face, and the hemming portion of the outer panel is disposed proximate an edge of the outer panel. The panel portion of the outer face is configured to abut the first face of the inner panel, and the hemming portion is configured to abut the second face of the inner panel. An adhesive material is disposed between the panel portion of the outer panel and the first face of the inner panel, and a sealant material is disposed between the hemming portion of the outer panel and the second face of the inner panel.

Abstract: An object is to provide a hydrogen generation apparatus in which water can be helically flow down in an evaporator without fail, a method for manufacturing the hydrogen generation apparatus, and a fuel cell system using the hydrogen generation apparatus. The hydrogen generation apparatus includes a reformer configured to generate a hydrogen-containing gas; an evaporator 8 which includes an inner tube 9 and an outer tube 10, and a deformed hollow helical member 18 helically interposed between the inner tube 9 and the outer tube 10 and which is configured to evaporate the water supplied to the reformer 8; and a heat source 2 configured to evaporate the water. The evaporator 8 is configured such that the water is supplied to a helical flow channel 8A defined by the inner tube 9, the outer tube 10, and the hollow helical member 18 and evaporated by the heat source 2.

Abstract: A folder made from a roll of folder material stock. The folder has a front flap having a first top edge and a first width, and a rear flap connected to said front flap by a folder bottom, the rear flap having a second top edge and a second width. A slip-resistant portion is disposed on at least one of the flaps near said first or second top edge. The folder material stock comprises paper and a polymer material. A method of making the folder includes the steps of providing folder material stock comprising polymeric material, providing embossing dies in spaced, operable, mating relationship, positioning the folder material stock appropriately in the embossing dies, applying force to at least one of the embossing dies so as to decrease the spaced relationship, and deforming the folder material stock.

Abstract: A method for making a deflectable catheter includes positioning a flexible element along a catheter liner. A flexible element distal portion extends along at least a portion of a deflectable distal end portion of the catheter liner. At least one anchor is engaged to the flexible element distal portion. The anchor extends at least part way around the flexible element distal portion. An encapsulant is positioned around at least the flexible element distal portion and the deflectable distal end portion.

Abstract: A hybrid brake pad that includes a backing plate and a semi-metallic portion having a central groove. The semi-metallic portion is connected with the backing plate. A first ceramic composite portion is adjacent to the semi-metallic portion, and connecting with the backing plate. A second ceramic composite portion is opposite the first ceramic composite portion, and connecting with the backing plate.

Abstract: An assembly unit for buildings and its fabrication method are disclosed. The assembly unit includes an expanded synthetic resin; a metal wire bent in a zigzag manner to have bent portions, inserted in the expanded synthetic resin, a certain length of the bent portions being exposed from front and rear surfaces of the expanded synthetic resin; and a metal wire mesh mounted on the front and rear surfaces of the expanded synthetic resin and combined with the bent portions of the metal wire, to thereby obtain the working stability, so that an operator may carry it easily, shorten construction time by removing the necessity of a series of works of making a concrete form, casting concrete and curing the concreted surface, improve surroundings, and reduce construction expenses, by simply using the expanded synthetic resin, the metal wire and the metal wire mesh, compared with those of when existing reinforced concrete structures are employed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid absorbing sheet comprising a bottom- or under-layer of water- or fluid-tight material, a middle layer of super absorbent polymer (SAP) and an upper layer of diffusing material, the fluid absorbing sheet further comprises at least one water- or fluid-tight bag for collecting and/or disposing of body fluids and/or other body wastes. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a sheet as well as its use.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for attaching parts. A composite male fastening component is placed through at least a first part and a second part. The composite male fastener component preferably has a threaded portion. A composite female fastener component is positioned adjacent to and surrounding the threaded portion of the male fastener component. A portion of the composite female fastener component is caused to flow around and form into the threaded portion of the composite male fastener component. The portion of the composite female fastener component that flowed around and formed into the threaded portion of the composite male fastener component is re-solidified and re-consolidated such that the composite female fastener component is securely attached to the composite male fastener component thereby joining the mating parts.

Abstract: A device for cable management comprises a first component and a second component. Each of the first and second components comprise a generally flat elongate sheet having longitudinal parallel edges which provide complementary inter-engaging means for engagement of the first and second components. The width of the second component is greater than that of the first component such that when the edges of the second component are engaged with those of the first component, the second component adopts a curved profile.

Abstract: Described herein is a mounting system and slider clips that support simplified installation of photovoltaic structures. The mounting system comprises a support structure which can be mounted to support columns via an optional tilt table. The support structure comprises a plurality of parallel spaced beams and a plurality of parallel spaced rails that are mounted approximately perpendicular to the beams. Disclosed embodiments describe a collapsible support structure in which the rails are pivotally mounted to the beams. Rails are preassembled with prefabricated slider clips for holding edge portions of the photovoltaic structures. Rails can also be integrally formed with slider clips. Described herein are also methods of installing one or more photovoltaic structures using the mounting system and methods for manufacturing slider clips and a photovoltaic structure mounting system.

Abstract: Flat gasket comprising a first sheet metal layer consisting of a spring steel and a second sheet metal layer consisting of a ductile steel, the first layer being provided with a sealing bead, and the second layer being provided in an edge area bordering on an edge of the layer with a thickened zone as supporting element for receiving pressing forces; to increase the design possibilities for such a supporting element, the latter is formed by at least one elongate arch of the second layer, which is stamped into the edge area of the second layer and extends approximately parallel to the free edge of the edge area, the arch being compressed in such a way that the metal volume of the supporting element is at least three times the total hollow space volume which the supporting element and two tangential planes abutting on the latter and extending parallel to the plane of the second layer include between them.

Abstract: A large diameter seal having a band of elastic material on its outer diameter to insure a complete and effective sealing in the counterbore and a method for manufacturing this large diameter seal having elastomeric material on its outer diameter.

Abstract: A fastener has a metallic member and a nonmetallic cap member. The metallic member has a head and a shaft. The shaft has a first end at the head, a distal second end, and an externally threaded portion. The metallic member further has a projection extending from the head opposite the shaft. The cap member is mated to the head opposite the shaft and retained by the projection.

Abstract: A differential carrier with an axis of rotation A around which the differential carrier can be rotatably supported in a differential housing is disclosed. The differential carrier comprises a first half-shell and a second half-shell. Each half-shell comprises a central carrier portion and two outer bearing portions. The two half-shells are connected to one another in the region of their bearing portions. A differential assembly which comprises such a differential carrier is also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of club heads with multiple density weighting and methods of manufacturing the same are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: A seal assembly and method for the manufacture thereof is provided. The seal assembly provides a dynamic fluid seal between a housing having a bore and a shaft having an outer running surface rotating within the bore. The seal assembly comprises a rigid carrier for supporting the seal assembly within the bore of the housing. A flexible member is mounted to the rigid carrier. The flexible member is formed from an elastomeric material that allows the flexible member to flex during use. A sealing element is retained by the flexible member about the outer running surface. The sealing element is formed from a non-polytetrafluoroethylene bearing grade plastic material having a hardness relatively greater than a hardness of the elastomeric material of the flexible member. The sealing element moves with the flexible member as the flexible member flexes. The sealing element extends along the outer running surface in a plurality of helically wound convolutions.

Abstract: A method comprising: a) providing sheet or format metal; b) swaging said metal by means of a swaging lubricant, so as to form a swaged blank; c) degreasing said swaged blank, so as to typically remove the remains of the swaging lubricant, to form a degreased blank capable of being lacquer coated; d) lacquer coating said degreased blank, said resulting lacquer coated blank being then optionally decorated; e) an optional finishing step. The method is characterized in that during the degreasing at step c), said swaged blank is subjected to an energetic radiation emission treatment of selected intensity and duration to eliminate or decompose said remains of lubricant, said treatment being wholly carried out at a metal temperature less than 150 degree C., and for a duration typically less than 1 second, so as to obtain, following said treatment, a surface tension not less than 34 dynes/cm.

Abstract: A method of forming a panel constrained layer damper treatment from a laminate, having a panel and a visco-elastic layer attached thereto, by forming a panel constrained layer damper from the laminate to a predetermined shape is provided. Additionally, the method of the present invention includes attaching the panel constrained layer damper to a substrate to form the panel constrained layer damper treatment. The method may also include subjecting the panel constrained layer damper to heat energy to bond the visco-elastic layer to the substrate. In addition, various methods of attaching the panel constrained layer damper to the substrate are provided.

Abstract: A lined and flanged bush and method of manufacturing the same comprising: providing a liner having an aperture; locating the aperture in the liner around the spigot such that the liner lies on the surface; and stamping out the blank around the spigot to provide a lined and flanged bush.

Abstract: An open frame prosthesis is formed with looped end terminations at its proximal and distal ends. At one end of the prosthesis, the filaments or strands are welded together in pairs to form strand couplings. A plurality of loop segments are connected to the strand couplings, one loop segment for each pair of adjacent strand couplings. In one version of the prosthesis, strands at the opposite end are bent to form looped ends. In another version, loop segments are connected to pairs of strand couplings at both ends of the prosthesis. The loop segments can be connected to the couplings by welding, fusion bonds, or tubes, which are either crimped or heat shrunk.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of polishing a minimum spangle aluminum-zinc alloy hot-dip coating applied to sheet steel to provide a polished hot-dip coating having a continuous, consistent surface appearance suitable for use in an unpainted condition.

Abstract: A method for producing a printed and embossed deep-drawn lid of aluminum that is circular in plan view. The method comprises: (a) printing an aluminum plate with at least one of a varnish and a paint; (b) cutting the aluminum plate; (c) deep drawing; (d) embossing; and (e) optionally, edge rolling. Steps (b), (c), (d) and optionally (e) are carried out with a single tool. A lid obtainable by this method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A prefabricated panel assembly for use in constructing a marine vessel comprises a plurality of elongated, roll-formed metal panels fixed sided to side by longitudinal weld seams. The panels include a plate portion and an angle portion adjoining the plate portion along a longitudinal primary bend, the plate portion having a generally flat panel segment, the angle portion having a web generally orthogonal to the panel segment and a flange generally parallel to the panel segment and adjoining the web along a secondary bend. The panel assembly provides a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to using individual structural steel angles welded to individual steel plate in constructing a marine vessel.

Abstract: A method for joining two components, of which at least one is tubular in shape, more preferably of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. The joint can be produced in an easier manner with high quality if a ring-shaped joining element having an outer cone on at least one axial side with its outer cone is axially pressed into an axial end section of the one tubular component, as a result of which the end section of the one component widens along the outer cone when on its axial end of the widened end section and on the joining element a circumferential weld seam is produced and when the other component on an axial end section is joined with the joining element.

Abstract: A jewelry article having one or more interchangeable inserts removably attached thereto. In an aspect, the article comprises an assembly having an opening and one or more recessed portions, wherein one or more interchangeable inserts are removably attached therein. The one or more inserts comprise a top portion having a recessed housing to house one or more decorative ornaments, and a base portion having one or more cavities wherein one or more magnets are adhesively affixed therein.

Abstract: A large diameter seal having a band of elastic material on its outer diameter to insure a complete and effective sealing in the counterbore and a method for manufacturing this large diameter seal having elastomeric material on its outer diameter.

Abstract: An environmentally resilient building product of a vinyl laminated formed-sheet metallic substrate wherein the vinyl laminate is adhesively attached to the formed-sheet metallic substrate to provide a durable and attractive surface. Possible decorative and resilient surfaces include, but are not limited to solid colors, metallic finishes, and graphical images or patterns, all available in a variety of textures.

Abstract: A folder made from a roll of folder material stock. The folder has a front flap having a first top edge and a first width, and a rear flap connected to said front flap by a folder bottom, the rear flap having a second top edge and a second width. A slip-resistant portion is disposed on at least one of the flaps near said first or second top edge. The folder material stock comprises paper and a polymer material. A method of making the folder includes the steps of providing folder material stock comprising polymeric material, providing embossing dies in spaced, operable, mating relationship, positioning the folder material stock appropriately in the embossing dies, applying force to at least one of the embossing dies so as to decrease the spaced relationship, and deforming the folder material stock.

Abstract: Generally, the present disclosure includes a hybrid segmented endoprosthesis for delivery into a lumen of a body. The hybrid segmented endoprosthesis has different types of segments that are joined together. The segments are typically distinct and distinguishable from each other by each segment having a unique configuration different from at least one other segment. Additionally, the segments can be coupled together by various processes well known for interconnecting the materials of endoprostheses. The segmented endoprosthesis can provide improved deliverability, strength, flexibility, and/or functionality during and after deployment. The use of a segmented endoprosthesis can combine the configurations of multiple small endoprostheses into a standard- or regular-sized endoprosthesis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method in connection with the manufacturing of a dosing roller, comprising the provision of a roller body (1) with an envelope surface (IA) on which a wire (4) is being wound such that plurality of turns of wire is formed in contact with the envelope surface (IA) and with adjoining turns of wire (4, 4?, 4?) in tight contact with each other, wherein for at least the major part of said adjoining turns of wire (4, 4?, 4?) the surface of the wire (4) which is outwardly exposed is being provided with protrusions (11) and depressions (12).

Abstract: In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a method for making a guidewire is provided. The method comprises removing material from a distal portion of a core wire to define a distal tip extending from a proximal portion of the core wire. A collar is positioned adjacent to the distal tip about the proximal portion.

Abstract: A mounting bracket for a slotted upright featuring a channel member having a channel and a forwardly extending element. An insert is positioned within the channel member and has L-shaped fingers extending through the channel. The insert is secured within the channel member by fastening screws through the channel member and into the insert. When the bracket is placed on a slotted upright so that the L-shaped fingers of the insert are within the upright slots, tightening of the screws causes the fingers of the insert to engage the slots of the slotted upright and pushes the rear side of the channel member tightly against the slotted upright. This creates an overlying relationship where the L-shaped fingers and rear side of the channel member sandwich the slotted upright to provide an extremely secure connection. The mounting bracket is easily installed or removed by tightening or loosening the screws.

Abstract: A garage door has pivotally connected door panels, with each of the door panels including an outer skin having an outer surface. The outer skin has a metal, such as steel, having a first coefficient of thermal expansion. An overlay element, such as a decorative element, is coupled to the outer surface of at least one of the outer skins. The overlay element includes a fiber-reinforced thermoset material having a second coefficient of thermal expansion. In one specific embodiment, the first and second coefficients of thermal expansion are substantially equal. In one embodiment, the overlay element includes a pultruded fiber-reinforced thermoset material. In yet another aspect, the overlay element is adhesively coupled to said outer surface. Adhesive coupling may, for example, include a hot-melt adhesive, a two-part glue, or double-sided adhesive tape.

Abstract: A data storage device including a housing including an overmold element with features for sealing the interior from ambient particulates, providing mechanical support with respect to a host, absorbing mechanical shock, and retaining a recirculation filter. The device includes a flexible electronic interconnect connectable to the host. The host includes a cavity. A resilient support extends through a movement margin between the housing and the cavity, absorbing mechanical shock. Bumpers are disposed on the housing and serve to cushion a strike when the device travels through the swing space. The resilient support extends from the corner region and is molded through an opening in the device. A sealing arrangement includes a sealing lip and bias cones and seals the interior of the device from outside particulates. A recirculation filter retention feature retains a recirculation filter. Latching features prevent two opposite portions of the housing from separating.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a seamless airbag door assembly for a motor vehicle. A panel having an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the panel has predetermined breaking lines that are not visible when the panel is viewed from the outside surface. A scrim is connected to the inner surface of the panel and has a cut-line operable aligned with the predetermined breaking lines of the inner surface of the panel. An airbag chute is connected to the scrim and inner surface of the panel in order to connected the airbag chute to the panel.

Abstract: Parts are provided which combine structural reinforcement of hollow profiles and light weight means of attachment. Optionally, the part may also provide an acoustic baffle. The parts consists of a core coated with expandable structural reinforcing foam on at least part of its surface the core being provided with means for receipt of a nut and means to prevent rotation of the nut. Optionally, a piece of a second expandable material is provided on at least one extremity which can expand to fill the entire cross section of the hollow profile. In a preferred embodiment, the hollow profile is the A, B or C pillar of a vehicle and the nut is used for attaching doors.

Abstract: A bow-spring centralizer includes a center assembly having a plurality of bow springs and a pair of generally tubular moving collars secured one to each end of each bow spring, the center assembly formed intermediate a pair of generally tubular stop collars. Each moving collar/stop collar combination forms an interlocking and axially extendable collar. The centralizer is formed from a single tube. The tube is cut using a laser according to a cut pattern that creates interlocked stop collar/moving collar combinations that are rotatably locked but axially movable one relative to the other. Each of the interlocked stop collars and moving collars includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced heads, each head integrally formed on one of a plurality of circumferentially spaced extensions protruding from the stop collar or moving collar. The heads may have a variety of projected shapes, such as a rectangular, arrow or a teardrop shaped.

Abstract: A vehicle box assembly wherein a bed floor and the inner right and left side wall panels are defined by and assembled from two monolithic one-piece integrated side/floor panel members. The two panel members are preferably formed by roll forming a thin metal sheet so that only a single roll-formed panel configuration is required. Subsequent forming operations, such as punching or die forming, are carried out on the roll-formed configuration to create right and left panel members which are assembled to define the floor and opposed inner side panels of the box assembly.

Abstract: The fire extinguisher of the present invention includes a container housing a fire inhibiting material which may automatically discharge its fire inhibiting contents in response to a fire. In one exemplary embodiment, the fire inhibiting material is pressurized within the container and the container is structured and arranged to discharge its fire inhibiting contents in a predetermined direction. Also, a method is provided for constructing a container for holding fire inhibiting contents under pressure and a method and apparatus for effectively and efficiently filling and pressurizing the container with fire inhibiting material, forming a container structured and arranged to expel the fire inhibiting material contained therein in a predefined direction in response to a fire.

Abstract: There is disclosed a sealant material for providing sealing to a substrate and preferably an interface. The sealant material may include a locator mechanism.

Abstract: A grease trap for separating grease and solid waste from waste water. The grease trap includes a tank having a downwardly shaped bottom. An upwardly shaped divider divides the tank into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. A hole near an upper part of the divider allows waste into the upper chamber. An inlet invert in the tank receives incoming waste water, while an outlet invert removes water from the tank. A lid covers the tank. A pipe extends through the lid, upper chamber, and lower chamber for sucking solid waste out of the lower chamber.

Abstract: A stent is formed by encasing or encapsulating metallic rings in an inner polymeric layer and an outer polymeric layer. At least one polymer link connects adjacent metallic rings. The stent is drug loaded with one or more therapeutic agent or drug, for example, to reduce the likelihood of the development of restenosis in the coronary arteries. The inner and outer polymeric materials can be of the same polymer or different polymer to achieve different results, such as enhancing flexibility and providing a stent that is visible under MRI, computer tomography and x-ray fluoroscopy.

Abstract: Sealing gasket construction for providing a fluid seal intermediate a pair of opposed, mating parts or structures. The gasket includes a metal retainer and a resilient seal element received in a groove formed into the retainer. Such groove is adapted to be fabricated by coining or a like sheet metal stamping or forming process.

Abstract: An office chair is provided having a contoured back assembly comprising a back frame and a suspension fabric. The fabric is attached to the back frame about its periphery wherein the back frame has a three-dimensional contoured shape formed by overlapped frame rings with the fabric being joined thereto. The fabric is secured to the frame by a machine wherein the fabric is first stretched from the outer edge of the fabric and then is clamped by a front frame section in the pre-tensioned or pre-streched condition. The fabric edges are allowed to hang loose and then fixed in the front frame section. Once secured, the fabric is unclamped from the front frame section, and then this sub-assembly is affixed to the rear frame ring to complete the assembly of the back frame.

Abstract: An endoscopic working channel is made of an inner polytetrafluoroethylene tube having a spiral wrap of wire over it with an outer expanded polytetrafluoroethylene tube bonded over the wire to the inner polytetrafluoroethylene tube.

Abstract: A method of forming a composite door is disclosed. The method comprises: mixing together a thermoplastic polymer with an organic fibrous material in a ratio such that the organic fibrous material constitutes 40 to 60 percent by weight of the mixture; extruding the mixture under heat and pressure to create a thin sheet form; cutting the sheet to a predetermined size; removing material from at least one surface of the sheet to create a homogeneous appearance devoid of obvious fibrous particles; thermoforming the sheet to impart to the at least one surface an exterior three dimensional door surface to create a thin door facing; and assembling two of the thermoformed thin door facings, a peripheral frame and a core material into a door.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for manufacturing a multi-part component that dampens vibration and noise caused by forces acting on the component. A pre-formed first part is treated for application of a resilient material. The material is dissolved in a solvent and is selectively applied to areas of the first part that are subject to strong forces. A second part is mechanically attached to the first part, and the entire component is cured so that the resilient material is cured, the solvent is evaporated and the parts are bonded together.