Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090262363 | CONTOUR SENSOR INCORPORATING MEMS MIRRORS - A structured light sensor system for measuring contour of a surface includes an imaging lens system, an image capturing device, a first set of micro electromechanical system (MEMS) mirrors, and a control module. The imaging lens system focuses light reflected from the surface, wherein the imaging lens system has a corresponding lens plane. The image capturing device captures the focused light and generates data corresponding to the captured light, wherein the image capturing device has a corresponding image plane that is not parallel to the lens plane. The first set of MEMS mirrors direct the focused light to the image capturing device. The control module receives the data, determines a quality of focus of the captured light based on the received data, and controls the first set of MEMS mirrors based on the quality of focus to maintain a Scheimpflug tilt condition between the lens plane and the image plane. | 10-22-2009 |
20100302554 | HYBRID SENSOR - A sensor system for analyzing a feature in a sensing volume. The sensor system includes a laser source and a sensor. The first laser source projects a laser line into the sensing volume and onto the feature forming a laser stripe on the feature. The sensor images the laser stripe where the laser line intersects with the feature. The relationship between the sensor and the first laser source is precalibrated. The sensor uses the laser stripe to determine the position and/or orientation of the feature. | 12-02-2010 |
20100302558 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC WINDOWING - A sensor system and method for analyzing a feature in a sensing volume is provided. The system receives image data from a sensor, where the image data including peaks corresponding to the intersection of laser lines with the feature. The system generates a dynamic window based on the entropy of the peaks. | 12-02-2010 |
20110310399 | HYBRID SENSOR - A sensor system and method for analyzing a feature in a sensing volume. The system imaging the feature with a first sensor and a second sensor that cooperate to form a contiguous sensing volume. | 12-22-2011 |
20110310401 | HYBRID SENSOR - A sensor system and method for analyzing a feature in a sensing volume. The system projecting a pattern onto the feature and imaging the pattern where the pattern intersects with the feature, where the pattern is a series of lines that are encoded to identify at least one line of the series of lines. | 12-22-2011 |
20110313721 | CONTOUR SENSOR INCORPORATING MEMS MIRRORS - A structured light sensor system for measuring contour of a surface includes a control module that coordinates control of both a projection system and an imaging system to operate the structured light sensor system in three different modes. The imaging system is configured to selectively capture an image of light reflected off of the surface. In point mode, the imaging system is on for a first period during which the projection system projects a point of light onto the surface. In line mode, the imaging system is on for a second period during which the projection system projects onto the surface a first plurality of points of light forming a line of light. In area mode, the imaging system is on for a third period during which the projection system projects onto the surface a second plurality of points of light forming a plurality of lines of light. | 12-22-2011 |
20120307260 | HYBRID SYSTEM - A system and method is provided for imaging an article within a field of view, projecting an illumination field onto the article within field of view, and selectively projecting illumination structures onto the article within the field of view. Then, image data corresponding to the illumination field and the illumination structures may be received and a feature of the article may be analyzed based on the illumination field and the illumination structures. | 12-06-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080215093 | Degradable Cage Coated With Mineral Layers For Spinal Interbody Fusion - A cage for facilitating fusion of bones, such as vertebrae, or fusion of adjacent bone surfaces is disclosed. In one form, the cage includes a plurality of spaced apart walls comprising a biodegradable polymeric material (e.g., polycaprolactone); an osteoconductive mineral coating (e.g., a calcium compound) on at least a portion of the walls; and a bioactive agent (e.g., a bone morphogenetic protein) associated with the polymeric material and/or the coating. The bioactive agent is present in amount that induces ossification between the bones or adjacent bone surfaces. The cage may also include a fixation plate connected to at least one of the walls. | 09-04-2008 |
20090037148 | BIODEGRADABLE/BIORESORBABLE TISSUE AUGMENTATION/RECONSTRUCTION DEVICE - A method of manufacturing biodegradable/bioresorbable tissue augmentation/reconstruction devices by defining material density distributions at selected time points during a material degradation lifecycle. These different density distributions are then superposed using general linear and/or nonlinear functions that could include both time and degraded base stiffness weighting factors. The material density distribution may be created using topology optimization, image-based design or computed aided design methods to create a degradable device that retains sufficient physical properties (ie modulus, strength, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity) through the material degradation lifecycle process. Thus, any bulk degrading material can be designed using this process for any tissue augmentation/reconstruction application. | 02-05-2009 |
20110166417 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REPAIR OF DEGENERATIVE CARTILAGE - The present invention relates, in general to methods for treating degenerative cartilage in an individual comprising administering a composition that increases bone morphogenic protein (BMP) expression directly into injured or damaged cartilage, such as in a vertebral disc or a joint, wherein the composition is in a controlled release formulation. | 07-07-2011 |
20110282392 | DEGRADABLE CAGE FOR BONE FUSION - A cage for facilitating fusion of bones, such as vertebrae, or fusion of adjacent bone surfaces is disclosed. In one form, the cage includes a plurality of spaced apart walls comprising a biodegradable polymeric material (e.g., polycaprolactone); an osteoconductive mineral coating (e.g., a calcium compound) on at least a portion of the walls; and a bioactive agent (e.g., a bone morphogenetic protein) associated with the polymeric material and/or the coating. The bioactive agent is present in amount that induces ossification between the bones or adjacent bone surfaces. The cage may also include a fixation plate connected to at least one of the walls. | 11-17-2011 |
20120330423 | Engineered Scaffolds for Intervertebral Disc Repair and Regeneration and for Articulating Joint Repair and Regeneration - Methods for the engineering and preparation of intervertebral disc repair scaffolds and articulating joint repair scaffolds are disclosed. The methodology utilizes either magnetic resonance images or combined magnetic resonance and computed tomography images as a template for creating either the intervertebral scaffold or the joint repair scaffold (e.g., osteochondral scaffold) with fixation to the underlying bone. The disc scaffold design may include an outer annulus that may contain desired structures and a central nucleus pulposus region that could either contain a designed microstructure or a contained hydrogel. The osteochondral scaffold may include a bone compartment interface with a cartilage compartment. The bone compartment may interface with a cutout portion of the bone through fixation components. Different microstructure designs may be created for the bone and cartilage compartment to represent desired mechanical and mass transport properties. The microstructure controls elastic and permeability property distribution within the scaffold. | 12-27-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080200570 | VOLUME-FILLING MECHANICAL ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF OPERATING THE SAME - A method of operating a volume-filling structure, comprising sensing an impact event and expanding the volume-filling structure from a non-expanded state to an expanded state upon the sensed impact event. The volume-filling structure comprises an open celled material, a first end cap connected to one end of the open celled material and a second end cap connected to a second end of the open celled material. The volume-filling structure further includes an activation mechanism regulating expansion of the open celled material from the non-expanded state to expanded state in response to an activation signal, and the activation mechanism includes an actuator interfaced with the end caps. Embodiments may include triggering a pneumatic device to force the second end cap from the first end cap. Additionally, embodiments may include triggering a mechanical event to force the second end cap from the first end cap. | 08-21-2008 |
20080228358 | Vehicle Personalization System - A vehicle includes at least one reconfigurable system having a plurality of selectively variable parameters, and a controller that is operatively connected to the at least one reconfigurable system to control the values of the plurality of selectively variable parameters. The controller is also configured to receive data indicative of physical characteristics of a person from at least one data storage medium, and configured to determine values of the selectively variable parameters according to a predetermined algorithm based on the data indicative of physical characteristics of a person. The controller is also configured to cause the selectively variable parameters to assume the determined values. | 09-18-2008 |
20100121535 | PERFORMANCE-BASED CLASSIFICATION METHOD AND ALGORITHM FOR DRIVERS - A system and method for classifying the optimization of safety features on a vehicle for a driver of the vehicle based on the height and mass of the driver. The method includes determining a number of basic driver sizes based on driver height and mass and determining a driver's seat position for each basic driver height. The method also identifies a set of tunable design variables that are used to adjust the safety features of the vehicle and performs design optimization analysis to identify an optimal design for the vehicle safety features for each of the basic driver sizes. The method then identifies the design from the optimal designs that provides the best performance for randomly selected reference drivers and classifies all drivers into a predetermined number of classifications where each classification represents a particular optimal design. | 05-13-2010 |
20100121536 | PERFORMANCE-BASED CLASSIFICATION METHOD AND ALGORITHM FOR PASSENGERS - A system and method for classifying the optimization of safety features on a vehicle for a vehicle passenger based on the passenger seating position and passenger body mass index. The method includes determining a number of basic passenger sizes based on the passenger height and mass and determining a number of passenger seating positions. The method further includes identifying a set of tunable design variables that are used to adjust the vehicle safety features, and performing design optimization analysis for identifying optimal designs, called basic optimal designs, for the vehicle safety features for each of the basic passenger sizes and the predetermined seating positions. The method identifies the design from the basic optimal designs that provides the best performance for randomly selected reference passengers in randomly selected seating positions, and classifies all passengers in their actual seating positions into one of the predetermined number of classifications where each classification represents a particular basic optimal design. | 05-13-2010 |
20110229685 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TEMPERATURE-COMPENSATED ENERGY-ABSORBING PADDING - Impact absorbing padding includes a unitary piece including a polymeric material comingled with a structural element. The polymeric material includes a material having a first temperature-responsive stiffness, and the structural element includes an element fabricated from a shape memory alloy formulated to have a second temperature-responsive stiffness that is converse to the first temperature-responsive stiffness. | 09-22-2011 |
20160059813 | SENSOR BASED OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM - A system and method for optimizing various vehicle safety systems, such as airbags and seat belt load tensioning limiters, for a particular occupant of a vehicle seat, such as the vehicle driver or passenger, based on the weight of the occupant and the fore-aft position of the seat. The method senses the mass of the occupant and the position of the seat and classifies the combination of the mass and position. The method then determines the optimized setting of the safety systems for that combination classification, and automatically sets the safety systems to that setting. The method can also determine the optimized setting of the safety systems based on whether the occupant is wearing a seat belt. | 03-03-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080224166 | LED INTERCONNECT SPRING CLIP ASSEMBLY - An LED interconnect spring clip assembly includes a housing having a center cavity and a plurality of contact features. Each contact feature has a portion retained by the housing and another portion that is operable to contact a terminal of an LED package disposed within the center cavity of the housing. The LED interconnect spring clip assembly retains the LED package when mounted to a substrate. | 09-18-2008 |
20080291683 | Near Field Lens - A lens for use with a light emitting source is provided. The lens has a main body with a light-collecting face and a light-emitting face and which defines an optical axis extending through the centers of these two faces. A pocket for receiving light from the light source is defined in the light-collecting face by an inner axially-facing surface surrounded by an inner radially-facing surface. The inner axially-facing surface is concave and has a spherical shape. The inner radially-facing surface has a non-spherical, tapered shape and extends between the axially-facing surface and an open end of the pocket. A light assembly incorporating the lens includes a light-emitting diode. | 11-27-2008 |
20080310028 | NEAR FIELD LENS FOR A LIGHT ASSEMBLY - The present invention provides a near field lens for an automotive light assembly. The lens comprises a main body having a radial collimating portion formed as a rotation about a central axis. A light-collecting faces defines pocket in the main body and receives light from the light source. The radial collimating portion is structured to radially direct light in planes normal to the central axis and to collimate light in radial planes through the central axis. By extending the main body, a thin plate near field lens is provided. | 12-18-2008 |
20090023323 | LED Interconnection Integrated Connector Holder Package - Disclosed is an LED package holder for retaining and electrically connecting an LED package. The LED package holder includes a housing configured to hold an LED package and has at least one center opening defined therein. A connector shroud is integrally formed with the housing and has a cavity for receiving a connector operable to supply power to the LED package. Two contact features are retained by the housing, and each contact feature has an inner contact and an outer contact. Each inner contact engages an LED electric terminal of the LED package. Each outer contact extends into the connector shroud so as to engage connector terminals when a connector is inserted into the connector shroud. | 01-22-2009 |
20090207617 | LIGHT EMITTING DIODE (LED) CONNECTOR CLIP - An LED package holder for holding and electrically connecting an LED package. The LED package holder includes a housing having an aperture defined therein and portions defining a recess. A plurality of contact features are retained by the housing and extend into the aperture. Each contact feature has an exposed portion configured to engage an LED electric terminal of an LED package that is received within the aperture. A heat sink, also retained by the housing, is at least partially located within the recess of the housing and configured to draw heat away from the LED package received within the aperture. | 08-20-2009 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100275887 | EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL CANISTER FOR AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE - An evaporative emission control canister for an automotive vehicle includes a canister body and a bracket for attaching the body to a structural member of a vehicle. A number of fastener sets attach the bracket to the canister body, with each of the fastener sets including a closed-end hollow core boss having a generally cylindrical wall of uniform thickness and a number of buttresses applied to an outer surface of the generally cylindrical wall. The buttresses have the same uniform thickness as the generally cylindrical wall and are molded along with the cylindrical wall as one piece with an inner portion of the canister body. | 11-04-2010 |
20100282220 | INTEGRATED CANISTER STRAINER - A carbon canister adapted for use in an automotive vehicle is disclosed. The system has a carbon canister housing defining a cavity adapted for holding carbon pellets with the housing including: a port and a strainer disposed between the port and the cavity with a portion of a surface of the strainer being convex with respect to the cavity wherein the strainer has a plurality of orifices. The integral strainer obviates the need for a foam filter to prevent the carbon pellets from escaping from the carbon canister housing through the port. In some applications, the carbon canister system has three ports: one to the engine, one to atmosphere, and one to a vent of the fuel tank, each having a strainer disposed in the port. | 11-11-2010 |
20100293904 | AIR FILTRATION APPARATUS - An air filter assembly for an evaporative emissions control canister used with an internal combustion engine fuel system. The assembly includes: a housing having: an air inlet formed in an upper portion of the housing; and an air outlet; and; a baffle disposed within the housing. The baffle extends vertically downward from the air inlet in the upper portion of the housing towards a bottom portion of the housing. The baffles forming a plurality of vertically extending channels interconnected through a horizontally interconnecting channel formed between a bottom edge of the baffle and the bottom portion of the housing. A first one of the vertically extending channel receives air entering the housing from the air inlet. The air passes downwardly in the first one of the channels, then passing laterally outwards through the horizontally interconnecting channel towards a sidewalls of the housing, then passing upwardly through a second one of the vertically extending channels, and then finally exiting the housing through the air outlet. A filter structure is disposed in the second one of the vertically extending channels. A first portion of the filter structure includes: a first filter member having: a first portion disposed between the first surface portion of the baffle and the first sidewall portion of the outlet; and a second portion disposed between the second portion of the baffle and a space between a lateral edge of the first filter element and the second sidewall portion of the housing. A second filter member is disposed above the first filter member. The second filter member has: a first portion disposed between the first surface portion of the baffle and the first surface portion of the outlet; and a second portion extending between the second surface portion of the baffle and the second sidewall portion of he housing and over the space between the lateral edge of the first filter element and the second sidewall portion of the housing. | 11-25-2010 |
20100293905 | AIR FILTRATION APPARATUS - An air filter assembly is provided for an evaporative emissions control canister used with an internal combustion engine fuel system. The air filter assembly includes: a housing having an air inlet formed in an upper portion of the housing and an air outlet; and a plurality of vertically extending baffles disposed within the housing between the upper portion of the housing and a bottom portion of the housing. The baffles form a plurality of vertically extending channels interconnected horizontally through horizontally interconnecting channels disposed adjacent the upper portion of the housing and an opposing bottom portion of the housing. A first one of the vertically extending channels receives air entering the housing from the air inlet. The air then passes laterally outwards in the housing from the first one of the vertically extending channels successively to other ones of the vertically extending channels in a serpentine flow successively upwards and downwardly and through the horizontally interconnecting channels and then finally exiting the housing through the air outlet. A filter is disposed in one of the plurality of vertically extending channels in a path of the serpentine flow of the air passing through such one of the vertically extending channels. | 11-25-2010 |
20110155107 | Carbon Canister - A four-pass carbon canister includes a cover sealingly coupled to an injection-molded housing having a first chamber, a second chamber fluidly coupled to the first chamber, a baffle fluidly coupled to the second chamber, and a third chamber fluidly coupled to the baffle. The three chambers are filled with carbon pellets to absorb carbon pellets provided to the carbon canister from the fuel tank. The carbon canister is periodically purged by drawing fresh air into the carbon canister, with the fresh air desorbing the hydrocarbons and then provided to and consumed in an internal combustion engine. | 06-30-2011 |
20110297295 | Carbon Canister - A method of manufacturing and assembling a carbon canister for a fuel vapor management system of a vehicle includes injection molding a housing partially defining a first chamber, a second chamber, a third chamber, and a baffle. The housing includes a first wall defining an interface between the first and second chambers and a second wall with a portion of the second wall defining an interface between the second chamber and the baffle with apertures proximate a first side of the housing. The method may include injection molding first and second retention plates, filling first, second, and third chambers with carbon pellets, installing the first retention plate into the second side of the housing proximate the first and second chambers to enclose the carbon pellets, and installing the second retention plate into the second side proximate the third chamber to enclose the carbon pellets in the third chamber. | 12-08-2011 |
20120103309 | Integrally Molded Vapor Canister - An integrally molded carbon canister is provided. The integrally molded carbon canister includes a housing including four external side walls and an upper portion at least partially enclosing an internal cavity connected to a vapor inlet and outlet port, the upper portion including a depressed flow disruptor positioned rearward of an injection gate, and a first and second projected flow channel positioned adjacent to the injection gate and laterally spanning the housing. | 05-03-2012 |
20130291734 | CARBON CANISTER WITH INTEGRATED FILTER - A fuel vapor recovery system for a vehicle having a fuel system and an internal combustion engine includes a carbon canister having an injection molded housing of unitary construction including a first chamber having a purge port configured for connection to the internal combustion engine and a recovery port configured for connection to the fuel system, a second chamber fluidly coupled to the first chamber, and a third chamber fluidly coupled to the second chamber and having a vent port configured for connection to atmosphere. The canister may include first and second integrated frustospherical filters extending into the first and third chambers, respectively, each having a first plurality of longer radial slots and a second plurality of shorter radial slots disposed between respective ones of the longer radial slots to provide desired flow through the slots while containing activated carbon pellets and having a geometry that improves manufacturing tool life. | 11-07-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080206232 | Compositions and Methods For Modulating Pgc-1Beta to Treat Lipid-Related Diseases and Disorders - The present invention provides methods for treating lipid-related diseases and disorders, e.g., hyperlipidemia, hyper-triglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type II diabetes, and for modulating lipid biosynthesis, lipid transport, plasma triglyceride levels and/or plasma cholesterol levels, by modulating the expression or activity of PGC-1β. Methods for identifying compounds which are capable of treating or preventing a lipid-related disease or disorder are also described. | 08-28-2008 |
20080261224 | PGC-1Beta, A Novel PGC-1 Homologue and Uses Therefor - The invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules, designated PGC-1β nucleic acid molecules, which encode novel PGC-1 related coactivator molecules. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing PGC-1β nucleic acid molecules, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and nonhuman transgenic animals in which a PGC-1β gene has been introduced or disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated PGC-1β proteins, fusion proteins, antigenic peptides and anti-PGC-1β antibodies. Diagnostic and therapeutic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided. | 10-23-2008 |
20090005314 | Compositions and Methods for Modulating Pgc-1Alpha to Treat Neurological Diseases and Disorders - The present invention provides methods for modulating mitochondrial function, modulating lesion formation in the brain, modulating neurite growth, modulating neuronal degeneration, and treating and preventing neurological diseases or disorders comprising modulating the expression or activity of PGC-1α. The present invention also provides an animal, e.g., transgenic mouse, in which the PGC-1α gene is misexpressed. Methods for identifying compounds which are capable of treating or preventing a neurological disease or disorder are also described. | 01-01-2009 |
20120094293 | PGC-1 , A NOVEL PGC-1 HOMOLOGUE AND USES THEREFOR - The invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules, designated PGC-1β nucleic acid molecules, which encode novel PGC-1 related coactivator molecules. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing PGC-1β nucleic acid molecules, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and nonhuman transgenic animals in which a PGC-1β gene has been introduced or disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated PGC-1β proteins, fusion proteins, antigenic peptides and anti-PGC-1β antibodies. Diagnostic and therapeutic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided. | 04-19-2012 |
20120167240 | Compositions and Methods for Modulating PGC-1Alpha to Treat Neurological Diseases and Disorders - The present invention provides methods for modulating mitochondrial function, modulating lesion formation in the brain, modulating neurite growth, modulating neuronal degeneration, and treating and preventing neurological diseases or disorders comprising modulating the expression of activity of PGC-1α. The present invention also provides an animal, e.g., transgenic mouse, in which the PGC-1α gene is misexpressed. Methods for identifying compounds which are capable of treating or preventing a neurological disease or disorder are also described. | 06-28-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090053301 | SILICONE VESICLES CONTAINING ACTIVES - A process is disclosed for preparing a hydrophobic active loaded vesicle composition by admixing a hydrophobic active to a pre-formed silicone vesicle dispersion. The silicone vesicle compositions are useful in a variety of personal and healthcare compositions. | 02-26-2009 |
20090317343 | Personal Care Compositions Containing Silicone Elastomer Gels - Personal care compositions are disclosed containing a silicone elastomer from the reaction of an organohydrogen-siloxane having at least two SiH containing cyclosiloxane rings in its molecule, a compound having at least two aliphatic unsaturated groups in its molecule, and a hydrosilylation catalyst. | 12-24-2009 |
20100158824 | SILICONE POLYETHER ELASTOMER GELS - Gel compositions are disclosed containing a silicone polyether elastomer from the reaction of an organohydrogensiloxane having at least two SiH containing cyclosiloxane rings in its molecule, a compound or mixture of compounds having at least two aliphatic unsaturated groups in its molecule, and a hydrosilylation catalyst. The silicone polyether elastomer reaction product may itself be a gelled composition, or optionally may be contained in a carrier fluid to form a gel. The gel compositions may further contain a personal or healthcare active. | 06-24-2010 |
20100189667 | VESICLES OF HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT SILICONE POLYETHERS - Vesicle compositions from high molecular weight silicone polyether copolymers, methods for preparing the vesicle compositions, and personal, household, and healthcare formulations containing the vesicle compositions are disclosed. | 07-29-2010 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080226708 | Silicone Vesicles Containing Actives - Processes are disclosed for preparing silicone vesicle compositions and emulsions containing silicone vesicles, the compositions prepared therefrom, and formulated personal and healthcare products containing the silicone vesicles and emulsions compositions. | 09-18-2008 |
20090171012 | Silicone Vesicles - A process for preparing a vesicle composition based upon mixing an organopolysiloxane having at least one hydrophilic substituent group, a water miscible solvent, and water is disclosed. The vesicle compositions produced by the method are useful in various personal, household, and health care applications. | 07-02-2009 |
20100183525 | SILICONE-ORGANIC ELASTOMER GELS - Gel compositions are disclosed containing a silicone organic elastomer from the reaction of an organohydrogen-siloxane having at least two SiH containing cyclosiloxane rings in its molecule, a compound or mixture of compounds having at least two aliphatic unsaturated groups in its molecule, and a hydrosilylation catalyst. The silicone elastomer reaction product may itself be a gelled composition, or optionally may be contained in a carrier fluid to form a gel. The gel compositions may further contain a personal or healthcare active. | 07-22-2010 |
20100209367 | Emulsions Of Silicone Elastomer And Silicone Organic Elastomer Gels - Aqueous emulsions are disclosed of a gel or gel paste containing a silicone elastomer from the reaction an organohydrogensiloxane having at least two SiH containing cyclosiloxane rings in its molecule and a compound having at least two aliphatic unsaturated groups in its molecule. | 08-19-2010 |
20100247460 | Silicone Organic Elastomer Gels From Organopolysiloxane Resins - Gel compositions are disclosed comprising a silicone elastomer from the reaction of an SiH containing organopolysiloxane resin and an organic compound having at least two aliphatic unsaturated groups in its molecule. | 09-30-2010 |
20100303743 | Personal Care Compositions Containing Hydrophobic Silicone-Organic Gel Blends - Personal care or healthcare compositions are disclosed comprising a hydrophobic silicone organic elastomer gel blend having viscosity of at least 50 Pa-s. The hydrophobic silicone organic elastomer gel blend contains a silicone organic elastomer and a carrier fluid. The gel blend may be prepared by shearing a silicone organic elastomer or silicone organic elastomer gel with the carrier fluid. | 12-02-2010 |
20120258057 | SILICONE ORGANIC ELASTOMER GELS FROM ORGANOPOLYSILOXANE RESINS - Gel compositions are disclosed comprising a silicone elastomer from the reaction of an SiH containing organopolysiloxane resin and an organic compound having at least two aliphatic unsaturated groups in its molecule. | 10-11-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090002146 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING AND ASSOCIATING SENSOR LOCATION IN A TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM USING DUAL ANTENNAS - A method for receiving data from and associating locations of a plurality of tire condition sensors in a vehicle comprises the step of mounting a first directional antenna in the vehicle oriented in a first direction to receive signals from an associated transmitter of at least some of said tire condition sensors. A second directional antenna is mounted in the vehicle oriented in a second direction to receive signals from an associated transmitter of others of said tire condition sensors. Signal strength of any received signals is determined, and sensor locations are determined by determining a differential signal value. | 01-01-2009 |
20090179747 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING IDENTIFIABLE TIRE POSITION LOCATION IN A TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM - A method for identifying tire location including the steps of transmitting a low frequency signal at different power levels and receiving radio frequency identification signals. Tire identification and location based on low frequency power level for two tire transmitters is determined. Radio frequency signals from two different tire transmitters are received and tire identification and location are determined based on radio frequency signal strength. | 07-16-2009 |
20090243829 | Apparatus and process for monitoring a vehicle condition - An apparatus for monitoring a vehicle condition comprises a sensor for sensing the vehicle condition and a transmitter for transmitting signals indicative of the sensed vehicle condition. The transmitted signals include a first signal set and a second signal set. A receiver mountable on the vehicle is provided for receiving the transmitted signals. The receiver has a first operating state when the vehicle ignition is OFF and a second operating state when the vehicle ignition is ON. The first signal set includes a wake-up portion to wake up the receiver when the receiver is in its first operating state and an information portion. The second signal set includes an information portion. The transmitted signals include at least one first signal set and at least one second signal set during a predetermined time period when the vehicle ignition is OFF and when the vehicle ignition is ON. | 10-01-2009 |
20150015367 | PASSIVE REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM WITH TIME-BASED ANTI-THEFT FEATURE - Method for preventing security breaches via the two-thief method of attack of passive remote keyless entry systems for vehicles. The method involves the measurement of air travel time of the RF messages between the RKE fob and the vehicle. Multiple round trips between the fob and the vehicle are employed to magnify the distance covered by the messages and thereby allow accurate measurement of the air travel time. | 01-15-2015 |
20150022332 | PASSIVE REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM WITH LEVEL-BASED ANTI-THEFT FEATURE - Method for preventing security breaches via the two-thief method of attack of passive remote keyless entry systems for vehicles. The method involves the transmission of a signal between a fob and the vehicle, where the level of the signal changes in a particular pattern. At the receiving side, anomalies in the pattern of the received signal (e.g., levels, timing) are detected and used to detect attempts to mimic the signal. | 01-22-2015 |
20150077226 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONSERVING ENERGY IN RKE AND TPM VEHICLE SYSTEMS - A method and apparatus for controlling a vehicle based transmitter/receiver system including transmitting a first signal portion at a first baud rate and second signal portion at a second baud rate where the first baud rate is faster than the second baud rate, the first signal portion including a wake-up portion, and controlling the receiver to periodically wake up to receive the first signal portion and stay awake to receive the second signal portion only if the wake-up portion of the received signal is valid. | 03-19-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130239594 | ICE MAKER WITH SELF-REGULATING ICE MOLD & METHOD OF OPERATING SAME - An ice maker of a domestic refrigerator that includes an ice mold having an electrically-conductive polymeric body and a plurality of cavities defined in the polymeric body. Each cavity is sized to receive a quantity of fluid corresponding to a single ice cube. A pair of electrodes is engaged with a bottom surface of the polymeric body. The polymeric body has a first electrical conductivity at a first operating temperature and a second electrical conductivity that is less than the first electrical conductivity at a second operating temperature. The second operating temperature is greater than the first operating temperature. | 09-19-2013 |
20130270251 | LIGHTED SIGNALS TO PROVIDE DIRECTION TO USER - A cooktop, having at least one burner and at least one control. Each burner may be associated with a particular control. A burner sensor detects the presence of a pot on the burner. When a pot is detected, an illuminated path is activated between the burner and its associated control. A control sensor detects a user's proximity to the control. When a user is detected, the illuminated path is also activated. Alternatively, a lighting effect is used to highlight the associated burner and control. Alternatively, each burner is associated with a burner selector button or burner user selection interface, and a controller is used to adjust the parameters of a burner selected using the burner selector button. A communication link may be provided between the cooktop and a hood, and a display provided on the hood to indicate burner status, as well as other settings such as timer progress. | 10-17-2013 |
20130291581 | HEATER-LESS ICE MAKER ASSEMBLY WITH A TWISTABLE TRAY - An ice maker is provided that includes a tray having recesses that can include ice-phobic surfaces. The ice-phobic surfaces may include ice-phobic coatings, textured metal surfaces, hydrophobic coatings or other surfaces configured to repel water and ice. The tray can be formed from metal material and may exhibit a fatigue limit greater than about 150 Megapascals (MPa) at 10 | 11-07-2013 |
20130291582 | HEATER-LESS ICE MAKER ASSEMBLY WITH A TWISTABLE TRAY - An ice maker assembly is provided that includes a tray having a plurality of ice-phobic recesses. The recesses may possess a total water volume of 70 cc or greater. The tray comprises metal material and can be formed with a substantially uniform strain distribution. The ice maker further includes a frame body coupled to the tray, a driving body that is rotatably coupled to the ice-forming tray, and a processor that is operatively coupled to the driving body. The processor controls the driving body to rotate the tray in a manner that flexes the tray to dislodge ice pieces formed in the recesses. | 11-07-2013 |
20130291583 | TWISTABLE TRAY FOR HEATER LESS ICE MAKER - An ice maker is provided that includes a tray having recesses that can include ice-phobic surfaces. The ice-phobic surfaces may include ice-phobic coatings, textured metal surfaces, hydrophobic coatings or other surfaces configured to repel water and ice. The tray can be formed from metal material and may exhibit a fatigue limit greater than about 150 Megapascals (MPa) at 10 | 11-07-2013 |
20140165618 | CLEAR ICE HYBRID MOLD - A method of making clear ice spheres includes a providing a mold apparatus having a first mold portion and a second mold portion having mold cavity segments which define one or more mold cavities when the mold apparatus is assembled in an ice forming position. The mold apparatus includes a water jacketing system which is adapted to keep water in continuous circulation within the mold cavities to ensure clear ice is formed. Water is injected into the mold cavities and where a portion of the water is frozen to form a clear ice structure and a portion of the water enters the water jacketing system. Water may remain circulating in the water jacketing system, or may be expelled from the mold apparatus. The circulating water of the water jacketing system facilitates directional solidification of clear ice structure across a thermal gradient of the mold apparatus. | 06-19-2014 |
20150052932 | COMBINED REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER APPLIANCES WITH DAMPERS HAVING ICE PREVENTION TREATMENTS - Combined refrigerator/freezer appliances with dampers having ice prevention treatments are disclosed. An example combined refrigerator/freezer appliance includes a cabinet having a first compartment and a second separate compartment, a refrigeration system including a compressor, a single evaporator and a condenser, the single evaporator being associated with the first compartment to lower temperatures of the first and second compartments, and a damper having a first position in which air is prevented from flowing from the first compartment to the second compartment, and a second position in which air is permitted to flow from the first compartment to the second compartment, wherein at least a portion of the damper is treated to prevent ice buildup from forming on the at least portion of the damper when the damper is in the first position. | 02-26-2015 |
20150184914 | ICE MAKER WITH HEATLESS ICE REMOVAL AND METHOD FOR HEATLESS REMOVAL OF ICE - An ice making module for an appliance includes a conductive ice tray having an ice forming cavity. An electrical circuit is in electrical communication with the conductive ice tray and includes a power source in electrical communication with the conductive ice tray and a switch. The switch releases an electromagnetic pulse through the conductive ice tray. A water dispensing mechanism disposes water into the ice forming cavity and a cooling apparatus cools the water to form at least one ice piece that is in electromagnetic communication with the conductive ice tray. The electromagnetic pulse released through the conductive ice tray generates an induced electrical current through the ice piece and a repelling electromagnetic force between the conductive ice tray and the ice piece, wherein the repelling force biases the ice piece away from the conductive ice tray, thereby ejecting the ice piece from the ice forming cavity. | 07-02-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140170321 | ARTIFICIAL FINGERPRINT MATERIAL, PROCESS OF APPLICATION, AND METHOD OF EVALUATING FINGERPRINT RESISTANCE QUALITIES OF A SURFACE - An artificial fingerprinting solution that includes a heated blend of glyceryl trioleate and artificial sebum configured to approximate the fingerprint oil of a human. The artificial fingerprinting solution may also be included in a kit that also includes an artificial fingerprint stamp that has an artificial fingerprint transfer member that imitates a human fingerprint and is capable of receiving and holding at least a portion of the artificial fingerprint solution when the artificial fingerprinting transfer member contacts the artificial fingerprint solution. | 06-19-2014 |
20140260347 | ICE MAKER WITH HEATLESS ICE REMOVAL AND METHOD FOR HEATLESS REMOVAL OF ICE - An ice making module includes a conductive ice tray having a bottom surface and a barrier coating on at least a portion of the conductive ice tray. An electrical circuit in electrical communication with the conductive ice tray includes a power source and a capacitor. A switch is configured to move between a charging position, wherein the capacitor stores an electrical charge, and a pulse position, wherein the capacitor releases the electrical charge. A conductive material disposed proximate the conductive ice tray is in selective electromagnetic communication with the conductive ice tray. The electrical charge released by the capacitor generates an induced electrical current through the conductive material and a repelling electromagnetic force between the conductive ice tray and the conductive material. A water dispensing mechanism disposes water into the conductive ice tray. A cooling apparatus decrease the temperature of the water in the conductive ice tray. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260406 | THIN MOLD ICE HARVESTING - An ice maker includes an ice tray which is moveably mounted to a housing and operable between ice forming and ice harvesting positions. The ice tray comprises a generally planar body portion having a plurality of ice forming cavities disposed thereon. A harvesting mechanism, including retractable or fixed contacting members, is adapted to engage and deform the ice tray when the ice tray is in the ice harvesting position for facilitating release of formed ice structures during an ice harvesting process. The ice tray is a thin mold ice tray which is flexibly resilient, such that the ice tray is adapted to return to an at-rest position from a deformed position when the ice tray is no longer being urged to the deformed position by the harvesting mechanism. | 09-18-2014 |
20140268648 | DOMESTIC APPLIANCE INCLUDING PIEZOELECTRIC COMPONENTS - A domestic appliance such as a refrigerator, washing machine, and dryer is disclosed. The appliance may include a piezoelectric device. The piezoelectric device may be configured to supply electrical power to various electrically-powered elements in the appliance, such as a light source, a drive status sensor, and active balancing components. | 09-18-2014 |
20140331989 | GLASS AND METAL BURNER CAP AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A gas burner assembly may include a gas burner and a burner cap. The burner may include a distribution cavity fluidly coupled with a gas inlet and a plurality of gas discharge ports. The burner cap may have a glass body characterized by a peripheral edge, and a metal element encapsulating the peripheral edge. The glass body may overlie at least a portion of the distribution cavity, and the metal element may shield the peripheral edge. | 11-13-2014 |
20150059394 | ICE MAKER WITH PIEZO DIELECTRIC ELASTOMER SENSOR - An ice maker includes, among other things, an ice cube mold, an ice cube remover and a force sensor comprising a piezo dielectric elastomer (PDE). The ice cube mold has at least one cavity for receiving liquid. The ice cube remover is configured to apply a removal force to either the mold or an ice cube. The force sensor is provided on either the mold or the remover and provides an output indicative of the removal force. Upon the removal of an ice cube from the cavity, the ice cube remover applies a removal force to the mold or the ice cube to effect the removal of the ice cube from the cavity and the force sensor outputs a signal indicative of the removal force. | 03-05-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090193642 | METHOD FOR CONFIGURING AN END-OF-ARM TOOL FOR A ROBOTIC ARM - An end-of-arm tool having a workpiece interface tool is attachable to an articulable robotic arm. The end-of-arm tool can be configured by engaging an adjustable modular unit including a swing arm, a cylinder, and a workpiece interface tool to a rail element of the end-of-arm tool. The adjustable modular unit machine-slides in the rail element to a preferred x-axis position, machine-pivots to a preferred angular orientation, and machine-extends along a longitudinal axis of the cylinder to a preferred z-axis position, and machine-rotates to a preferred rotational angle about the z-axis. | 08-06-2009 |
20090194922 | RECONFIGURABLE END-OF-ARM TOOL FOR ROBOTIC ARM - A configurable end-of-arm tool attachable to an articulable robotic arm is described. The end-of-arm tool comprises a rail element, a machine-adjustable swing arm, a machine-adjustable extendable shaft attached to the swing arm. A machine-adjustable rotator set is attached to the extendable shaft, and a workpiece interface tool is attached to the extendable shaft. The swing arm, the extendable shaft, and the rotator set are machine-adjustable to place the workpiece interface tool at a predetermined position. | 08-06-2009 |
20090288458 | INTEGRATED LOCKING ASSEMBLY FOR RECONFIGURABLE END-EFFECTORS - An integrated locking assembly that includes a linear locking mechanism and a rotary locking mechanism. The linear locking mechanism employs opposing locking plates having aligned bores that can lock onto a rod extending through the bores. The rotary locking mechanism includes rollers positioned between a housing and a cam where the rollers are wedged between the housing and the cam to lock the rotary locking mechanism and are positioned in an open position between the housing and the cam to unlock the rotary locking mechanism. The rotary locking mechanism includes T-shaped driving lugs each including a key portion that is slidably engaged in a slot in the cam and a driving portion having a flange that is positioned within an indented neck portion of the rollers when the rotary locking mechanism is in the locked position. | 11-26-2009 |
20090292298 | RECONFIGURABLE ROBOTIC END-EFFECTORS FOR MATERIAL HANDLING - A tool module associated with an end-effector for a robot arm that includes both linear and rotational locking mechanisms providing movement in five degrees of freedom. The tool module includes an integrated locking assembly that includes a linear locking mechanism and a rotary locking mechanism that are simultaneously locked and unlocked. The linear locking mechanism locks to a rod and the rotary locking mechanism locks and unlocks a shaft that is rigidly coupled to a swing arm. An opposite end of the swing arm includes another linear locking mechanism that locks and unlocks a shaft supporting a vacuum cup at an opposite end. The vacuum cup is mounted to a ball joint on the shaft that allows the vacuum cup to pivot. By locking and unlocking the locking mechanisms of the tool module, the end-effector can be readily configured to grasp and hold various parts of different dimensions and shapes. | 11-26-2009 |
20100031498 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FUEL CELL STACK ASSEMBLY - A method and apparatus for assembling a fuel cell stack is disclosed, wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of dunnage cassettes adapted to cooperate with a plurality of containers, a fixture, and an assembly device to simultaneously assemble a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies together with a plurality of bipolar plates. | 02-11-2010 |
20100140969 | RECONFIGURABLE END-EFFECTORS WITH ARTICULATING FRAME AND INDEXABLE MASTER BOOM - The end-effector includes an articulating frame mounted on an indexable boom. Tool modules mount on the end-effector and connect to a workpiece. Each tool module includes a flexible dress package including a cable carrier. A channel rail is supported by the end-effector frame and guides the cable carrier. A setup tool and associated process can reconfigure the positions of the tool modules and the frame and boom of the end-effector. | 06-10-2010 |
20110017007 | COUNTERBALANCE MECHANISM FOR END-EFFECTOR CONFIGURATION AND METHOD OF USE - A set-up stand is provided including a counterbalance mechanism for use in reconfiguring an end-effector with an articulating portion rotated by a bi-directional rotary locking device, for example, a clutch. A counterbalance mechanism is provided including a holding member which is attached to a preloaded member and connected to an articulating portion of the end-effector during reconfiguration of the end-effector. The preloaded member provides a tension load to counterbalance the gravity moment load of the articulating portion when the articulated portion is rotated in the same direction as the output shaft of the bi-direction rotary locking device, to prevent overhauling, chattering or binding stops during rotation and reconfiguration. A method is provided to utilize the counterbalance mechanism as described. | 01-27-2011 |
20110182655 | INTEGRATED LINEAR AND ROTARY LOCKING DEVICE - An integrated locking device that includes both a linear locking mechanism and a rotary locking mechanism. The locking device includes a housing where the linear locking mechanism and the rotary locking mechanism are mounted to different sides of the housing so as to reduce the height of the device. | 07-28-2011 |
20110229754 | REVERSIBLE BATTERY ASSEMBLY AND TOOLING FOR AUTOMATED HIGH VOLUME PRODUCTION - A battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in a stack, each of the battery cells including a pair of spaced apart tabs extending therefrom, a rigid support plate coupled to at least one of the tabs, and a busbar coupled to at least one of the tabs of each of a pair of adjacent battery cells. | 09-22-2011 |
20110274956 | EASY-TO-ASSEMBLE BATTERY PACK WITH PRISMATIC BATTERY CELLS - A weld-free, frameless battery design is provided. The design reduces the number of parts and the weight of the battery pack, simplifies the assembly operation, and keeps the battery pack reparable and remanufacturable with minimal effort and cost. The battery pack includes a stack of battery cells and cooling fins, and a removable restraint is placed around the stack. The positive and negative tabs of the battery cells comprise a pair of sub-tabs which are bent over the faces of the cell. One type of cell can have an extended portion on one of the positive and one the negative sub-tabs which are on opposite faces of the cell. The sub-tabs are used to make the necessary series and parallel connections. | 11-10-2011 |
20120260498 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FUEL CELL STACK ASSEMBLY - A method and apparatus for assembling a fuel cell stack is disclosed, wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of dunnage cassettes adapted to cooperate with a plurality of containers, a fixture, and an assembly device to simultaneously assemble a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies together with a plurality of bipolar plates. | 10-18-2012 |
20120279602 | FLEXIBLE DRESS PACKAGE FOR AN END-EFFECTOR EMPLOYED WITH A ROBOTIC ARM - A conduit system for conducting activation power to a tool module of a reconfigurable end-effector attachable to a robotic arm includes a fixed conduit portion conforming to a first portion of the reconfigurable end-effector including a master boom and a first portion of a rotatable guide rail. The conduit system includes a translatable conduit portion translatably connected to a second portion of the reconfigurable end-effector including a second lateral portion of the rotatable guide rail and a branch. The conduit system includes a rotatable portion connected between an end of the translatable conduit portion and a workpiece interface tool of the tool module. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280526 | RECONFIGURABLE TOOL MODULE FOR AN END-EFFECTOR EMPLOYED WITH A ROBOTIC ARM - A reconfigurable tool module for an end-effector includes an adjustable-height housing attached to a swing arm. The adjustable-height housing includes a valve spool and a flow path terminating at a workpiece interface tool. The valve spool is configured to interrupt the flow path when the adjustable-height housing is in a first position. The valve spool is configured to open the flow path when the adjustable-height housing moves away from the first position. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280527 | RECONFIGURABLE END-EFFECTOR ATTACHABLE TO A ROBOTIC ARM - A reconfigurable end-effector attachable to a robotic arm, includes a master boom, a first branch assembly and a second branch assembly, a dual articulation mechanism. The dual articulation mechanism includes a first clutch attached to the first branch assembly and is configured to articulate the first branch assembly relative to the second branch assembly. The dual articulation mechanism further includes a second clutch attached to the master boom, the second branch assembly and the first clutch and is configured to simultaneously articulate the first and second branch assemblies relative to the master boom. The first and second branch assemblies each have limbs connected to branches supporting a plurality of tool modules. Each tool module includes an end element configurable to interact with a workpiece. | 11-08-2012 |
20130104390 | REVERSIBLE BATTERY ASSEMBLY AND TOOLING FOR AUTOMATED HIGH VOLUME PRODUCTION | 05-02-2013 |
20140356049 | RECONFIGURABLE ROBOT END-EFFECTOR ASSEMBLY - A reconfigurable end-effector assembly includes a master boom, a limb, and branches. The branches extend radially outward from the limb. Tandem branch joint assemblies connect the branches to the limb, and include a first and a second branch joint each having a cam lock. Tool modules mounted to the branches are translatable and rotatable with respect to the branches. The joint assemblies rotate and slide with respect to the longitudinal axis of the limb only when the cam lock is released. A configuration tool has an actuator and fingers. The branch joints define openings that are engaged via the fingers. The tool includes a latch which engages the cam lock, and clamps and unclamps the cam lock. A flexible dress package is mountable to the limb and configured to route lengths of conduit to each of the tool modules. | 12-04-2014 |
20150052741 | HORIZONTAL HIGH SPEED STACKING FOR BATTERIES WITH PRISMATIC CANS - A system and method for stacking battery cells or related assembled components. Generally planar, rectangular (prismatic-shaped) battery cells are moved from an as-received generally vertical stacking orientation to a generally horizontal stacking orientation without the need for robotic pick-and-place equipment. The system includes numerous conveyor belts that work in cooperation with one another to deliver, rotate and stack the cells or their affiliated assemblies. The belts are outfitted with components to facilitate the cell transport and rotation. The coordinated movement between the belts and the components promote the orderly transport and rotation of the cells from a substantially vertical stacking orientation into a substantially horizontal stacking orientation. The approach of the present invention helps keep the stacked assemblies stable so that subsequent assembly steps—such as compressing the cells or attaching electrical leads or thermal management components—may proceed with a reduced chance of error. | 02-26-2015 |
20150100162 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A VISION GUIDED ROBOT ASSEMBLY - A method includes the following steps: actuating a robotic arm to perform an action at a start position; moving the robotic arm from the start position toward a first position; determining from a vision process method if a first part from the first position will be ready to be subjected to a first action by the robotic arm once the robotic arm reaches the first position; commencing the execution of the visual processing method for determining the position deviation of the second part from the second position and the readiness of the second part to be subjected to a second action by the robotic arm once the robotic arm reaches the second position; and performing a first action on the first part using the robotic arm with the position deviation of the first part from the first position predetermined by the vision process method. | 04-09-2015 |
20150336271 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FIXTURELESS COMPONENT LOCATION IN ASSEMBLING COMPONENTS - A system for assembling a first component and a second component comprises a support operatively supporting the first component without any fixtures, a vision system configured to view the supported first component and the second component and determine the locations thereof, a robotic system configured to move and position the second component relative to the first component, and a controller operatively connected to the vision system and to the robotic system and operable to control the robotic system to position the second component relative to the first component based on the locations determined by the vision system. Various methods of assembling the first component and the second component are provided to create a process joint prior to creation of a structural joint in a subsequent assembly operation. | 11-26-2015 |