stem Railroad signaling and communication system using a fail-safe voltage sensor to verify trackside conditions in safety-critical railroad applications By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 24 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EDT A method and system for verifying trackside conditions in safety critical railroad applications by reporting the status of trackside signals and switches to a remote train control system. The system comprises at least one sensor for providing trackside conditions electrically connected to a circuit for providing trackside conditions to a railroad, said sensor being powered by voltage applied to the circuit such that the sensor is energized only when said electrical component is engaged. The system and method further comprises a method and system which is failsafe and which enables the control system to independently verify signals from each sensor. Full Article
stem System and method for determining a slack condition of a vehicle system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 31 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EDT A method for determining a slack condition of a vehicle system includes determining when each of first and second vehicles reaches a designated location along a route. The method also includes communicating a response message from the second vehicle to the first vehicle responsive to the second vehicle reaching the designated location, calculating a separation distance between the first vehicle and the second vehicle based on a time delay between a first time when the first vehicle reached the designated location and a second time when the second vehicle reached the designated location, and determining a slack condition of the vehicle system based on the separation distance. The slack condition is representative of an amount of slack in the vehicle system between the first and second vehicles. Full Article
stem Train control system with pulse-code-modulated cab signaling By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 07 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A train control system with pulse code-modulated cab signaling, especially for defining traveling speeds, includes a code generator acting upon a signal generator in dependence on a direction of travel. An output signal of the signal generator is supplied to a current track circuit covering a track section. In order to economize on components, the signal generator includes a transmitting device for modulating the input signals of both code generators. The transmitting device is connected to circuit connection adaptation devices on one of two entry ends of the track section through travel direction-specific outputs. Full Article
stem Acoustical warning system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 07 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A locomotive warning system includes an acoustical warning subsystem configured to emit variably directed sound. A controller subsystem is responsive to an initiation command and is configured to trigger the acoustical warning subsystem to begin a sounding sequence when the initiation command is received at a first directivity angle and to continue the sound blast sequence at increasing directivity angles for a pre-establish time and/or distance traveled. Full Article
stem Ground device for train control system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 07 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A ground device 1 transmits train control information to an on-board device mounted on a train. The ground device 1 receives a train detection signal (TD signal) from a train with an ATC/TD on-board device mounted thereon through loop coils 21 to 2m, and receives a train position signal from a train with a CBTC on-board device mounted thereon through wayside radio sets 61 to 6n. Based on the input train detection signal and train position signal, the ground device 1 detects the position of each train traveling on a route R, generates control information on each train based on the detected position of each train, and converts the control information to an ATC signal and a CBTC signal. The ATC signal is transmitted to the loop coils 21 to 2m through information transmission units 4, and the CBTC signal is transmitted through the wayside radio sets 61 to 6n. Full Article
stem System and method for determining dynamically changing distributions of vehicles in a vehicle system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 07 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A system and method for determining dynamically changing distributions of vehicles in a vehicle system are disclosed. The system and method determine handling parameters of the vehicle system. The handling parameters are determined for different distributions of the vehicles among different groups at different potential change points along a route. The system and method also determine whether to change the distributions at potential change points based on the handling parameters. Based on determining that the distributions are to change, a selected sequence of changes to the distributions is determined at one or more of the potential change points along the route. Change indices are generated based on the selected sequence. The change indices designate times and/or the one or more potential change points at which the distributions changes. The vehicles included in a common group have common designated operational settings while the vehicles are in the common group. Full Article
stem Rail collision threat detection system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 14 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A detection system may include a transmitter associated with a first train configured to emit an end-of-train signal. The detection system may include a receiver associated with the transmitter and configured to receive the end-of-train signal from the transmitter. The receiver may also be configured to receive at least one remote signal from a second train and determine whether the second train is a collision threat based on the remote signal from the second train. Full Article
stem Train control system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 14 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT With respect to each of trains, a ground device 6 detects a train location in the control section on the basis of a propagation time of a radio wave between a vehicle radio set 4 and a wayside radio set 5, in the case in which the ground device 6 determines that the number of trains has reached the controllable number of trains or there is the possibility that the number of trains reaches the controllable number of trains in its own control section, a ground device 6 disposed in an adjacent control section to the control section in which the number of trains is reaching the controllable number of trains, when a train 2 scheduled to travel toward the control section stops in a station 8, prevents departure of the train 2 scheduled to pass through the border of the control section by making the train 2 wait at the station 8. Full Article
stem Warning horn control system, radar system, and method By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 28 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT There is provided a radar system that includes an emitter system (e.g., an antenna), configured to emit electromagnetic pulses and detect electromagnetic pulses, and a reflection target, placed opposite the emitter system. The emitter system and the reflection target define an area of interest. A controller is configured to identify a reflection from the reflection target and, if the reflection is not identified, to stop sending a radar check signal. The radar system may be part of a warning horn control system, where the radar check signal is used as a control input for activating a warning horn. Full Article
stem Train control system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 05 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A train control system includes: an on-board device 3 mounted on each of trains 2; a vehicle radio set 4; wayside radio sets 5 disposed on a ground; and a ground device 6 connected to the wayside radio sets 5. The ground device 6 obtains a location information of a train 2 and a location information of a following train 2 based on results of distance measurement based on communication between the wayside radio sets 5 and the vehicle radio sets 4, and the ground device 6 transmits them to an on-board device 3 of the train 2. The on-board device 3 calculates a stop limit position of the following train 2 based on the location information of the train 2 and the location information of the following train 2, and the on-board device 3 transmits the calculated stop limit position to the following train 2. Full Article
stem Systems and methods for providing constant warning time at crossings By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 05 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A system includes a determination module and a communication module. The determination module is configured to be located onboard a first vehicle configured to travel along a first route including a crossing corresponding to an intersection of the first route with a second route. The determination module is configured to be communicatively coupled with a remote crossing module. The determination module is configured to determine, based on a speed of the first vehicle, timing information corresponding to a time at which the first vehicle will travel proximate to the crossing on the first route. The communication module is configured to transmit the timing information to the remote crossing module. The timing information includes a reference time configured as an absolute time corresponding to a time for impeding travel of a second vehicle along the second route through the crossing. Full Article
stem Lane guidance display system, lane guidance display method, and lane guidance display program By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A determination unit that determines whether a vehicle is in a lane change state where the vehicle is going to make a lane change from a travelling lane to a recommended lane; and a display control unit that causes a display unit to display the front image on which a guide line is superimposed, wherein the guide line has a front end point and a rear end point, are provided. In the lane change state, the display control unit sets a position of the rear end point in the front image such that the rear end point indicates a central position in a width direction of the vehicle, and, not in the lane change state, the display control unit sets a position of the rear end point in the front image such that the rear end point indicates a central position in a width direction in the travelling lane. Full Article
stem Method and sequential monitoring overlay system for track circuits By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A sequential monitoring system is for an interlocking logic system and a track circuit system including a plurality of track circuits. The sequential monitoring system includes an interface between the interlocking logic system and the track circuit system; and a processor structured to monitor a state of each of the track circuits, validate a sequence of state changes of the track circuits, and interrupt and correct invalid track circuit state indications between the track circuit system and the interlocking logic system. The interface normally passes inputs from the track circuit system to outputs to the interlocking logic system. When an out of sequence event occurs, the processor applies a quarantine to a minimum of three of the track circuits in a quarantined area, thereby inhibiting use of an unoccupied track circuit in the quarantined area. Full Article
stem System and method for communicating data in a consist By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A system for communicating a dataset may include at least a first and a second communication line. The system may also include a first transceiver configured to communicate a first data signal indicative of the dataset over the first communication line and a second transceiver configured to communicate a second data signal indicative of the dataset over the second communication line. The system may also include a processor. The processor may be configured to receive the first data signal and the second data signal and compare the first data signal and the second data signal to determine whether the first data signal or the second data signal comprises a more accurate signal. The processor may also be configured to determine the dataset based upon the more accurate signal. Full Article
stem Flexible, multi-piece, multi-configuration concrete form system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 30 Dec 2014 08:00:00 EST The present invention is directed to a flexible concrete form system having both flexible and rigid parts that are easily assembled and disassembled using a multi-contact point connection system. The concrete form system can be extended or stacked in a wide variety of configurations to accommodate almost any desired concrete shape. Full Article
stem Elevated floor and ceiling slab formwork system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 30 Dec 2014 08:00:00 EST A slab formwork system (100), consisting of a plurality of vertical supports supporting a plurality of panels is provided characterized in that the slab formwork system (100) includes a plurality of vertical main members (101,102,103) whose height is adjustable by an operator such that each top of the vertical main member (101,102,103) is at the same level when referenced from an imaginary lower horizontal line, at least one primary bearer (301), wherein the primary bearer (301) is supported by the plurality of vertical main members (101,102,103) wherein each vertical main member (101,102,103) is perpendicular to each primary bearer (301), a pair of adjustable struts (246) in each vertical main member (101,102,103), wherein each adjustable strut (246) is diagonally connectable to the vertical main member (101,102,103) and the primary bearer (301), a plurality of height adjustable props (502) connectable perpendicularly to at least one filler panel (410), a plurality of secondary bearers (303) wherein the secondary bearers (303) are disposed perpendicular on top of the primary bearers (301), a longitudinally extendable element (315) connectable to terminal end of the primary bearer (301) supported by a plurality of vertical main members (103) and a plurality of panels (407) assembled on top of the secondary bearers (303) to receive concrete wherein each filler panel (410) is disposed between at least two panels (407). Full Article
stem Adjustable form panel system and method of forming By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST A system for constructing a form for forming a concrete structure is disclosed herein. The system may include a number of extensible form panels. An extensible form panel may be constituted with a basis frame having a basis frame section and an extensible frame section extensible for a variable amount in at least one direction, along one axis. The frame sections may be configured to respectively accept and support basis and filler facings. The extensible frame section may include male/female endings. The system may also include a capping member with male and/or female endings. A form panel may include hinges, which may be swivelable, drive screws, and/or electronic motors. The system may further include a stub free to facilitate vertical coupling of form panels. In various embodiments, the parts may be formed with reusable material or materials. Full Article
stem Modular mould system for manufacturing a shell part By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 10 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST A modular mold system for manufacturing a shell part of an oblong composite structure having a longitudinal direction from a fiber reinforced matrix material. The modular mould system includes a number of mold sections, which are adapted to being assembled to an assembled mold part. The number of mold sections includes a first mold section having a first molding surface with a contour that defines a surface of a first longitudinal part of the shell part and a first end section; and a second mold section having a second molding surface with a contour that defines a surface of a second longitudinal part of the shell part and a second end section; which, when the modular mold system is assembled to the assembled mold, the second end section of the second mold section abuts the first end section of the first mold section. Full Article
stem Mold system for forming multilevel blocks By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 17 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST A mold system for forming a multilevel block is disclosed which comprises a multilevel mold box insert for forming a multilevel block, a mold box frame adapted for receiving therein the multilevel mold box insert, a multilevel plunger assembly, and a press head plate adapted for receiving thereon the multilevel plunger assembly. Full Article
stem Thixotropic concrete forming system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 24 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST The present invention discloses a method and a forming system that reduces the hydrostatic pressure caused by casting freshly mixed concrete or other cementicious material into vertical forms. Reducing the hydrostatic pressure in forms enables relatively weak materials to be used as form boards and minimizes the amount of bracing necessary to support the form boards—both of which lead to lower construction costs. The method uses the highly thixotropic properties of no-slump or low-slump concrete which enable the concrete to be quickly changed from a semi-solid state to a liquid and back to a semi-solid state numerous times before it hardens and without affecting the concrete's quality. Since hydrostatic pressure is only present when a liquid state exists, minimizing the amount of liquid concrete in vertical forms will also minimize the hydrostatic pressure present. Full Article
stem Edge form system for forming simulated stone coping By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 24 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST An edge form system has a molded liner and a form board. The molded liner has a textured imprinting on the inner surface for forming a simulated stone coping and a first interlocking element. The form board has a base for mounting the form board on a vertical structure, a coping support wall, a liner receiver, and a second interlocking element for interlocking with the first interlocking element. Full Article
stem Arcuate concrete form and system for forming arcuate concrete flatwork By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EST A fixed form suitable for use in framing concrete with arches is described as is an adjustable form and a system for forming concrete. The fixed form has an arch with a fixed radius terminating at arch ends. At least one frame element is attached to the arch wherein the frame element terminates at an arch end at a frame face and the frame face is perpendicular to a tangent of the arch at the arch end. The adjustable form has an adjustable radius. Full Article
stem Concrete sideform system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EST A concrete side form system suitable for factory casting or site casting concrete. The side form includes a substantially rigid longitudinally extending wall. The wall has a first face to define the edge profile of a concrete panel poured onto a casting bed bounded by the wall and a second face opposite the first face having formation to enable the wall to be secured to the casting bed. The wall includes a longitudinally extending frame having formation along at least one of its edges to removably receive a removable longitudinal insert to provide a shape along an edge of the concrete panel. The removable inserts provide the system with the ability to simply, easily and cost effectively change the edge profile of concrete poured against the side form. Full Article
stem Molding system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 17 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EDT The present invention discloses a molding system, more particularly, a shrinking type molding system comprising an outer mold, an inner mold and a first pattern layer. An adjustable gap is formed between the outer mold and the inner mold to contain a work piece therein. Furthermore, the work piece with a pattern structure on the surface thereof can be formed by the first pattern layer. The difference between the present invention and the prior art is that the molding system of the present invention is capable of optionally or simultaneously forming the pattern structure on the inner surface or the outer surface of the work piece, so as to solve the long last problem that not all the surfaces of the work piece could have the pattern structure thereon in the prior art. Full Article
stem Early-stripping formwork system for concreting of constructions comprising beams, slab and columns By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 14 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT An early-stripping formwork system for concreting of constructions comprising beams, slab and columns comprises several rectangular standard formworks (1), props with multiple early-stripping support mechanisms (2), several filler beams (3) and filler panels. The standard formwork (1) consists of a panel (11) and a formwork frame (12), and the formwork frame (12) is provided with L-shaped corners (121) at its four corners. Each of the early-stripping prop (2) consists of an upper support inner tube (21) and a lower support tube (22) which form a telescopic connection, a rectangular head plate (23) is disposed at the top end of the upper support inner tube (21), one corner of the head plate (23) fits an internal corner of any one of the L-shaped corners (121) on the formwork frame (12). A load-releasing mechanism (24) is connected between the upper support inner tube (21) and the lower support outer tube (22). An early stripping mechanism (25) for early stripping of the standard formwork (1) is disposed on the upper support inner tube (21), short posts (251) for supporting the formwork frame (12) are disposed at four corners of the early stripping mechanism (25), and a structure for preventing the formwork frame (12) from slipping outwards is formed between the short post (251) and the L-shaped corner (121). The formwork frame (12), the filler panel, the filler beam (3), and a bridge beam (4) may be all in a detachable combined structure. In the formwork system, transport and storage of the formwork are convenient, and manufacturing cost is reduced. Full Article
stem Tie system for forming poured concrete walls over concrete footings By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 19 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A tie system and method for forming a wall from a hardenable building material. In one embodiment, the tie system includes multiple ties configured to be directly interconnected into a vertically extending tie stack such that multiple tie stacks can be positioned over a footing in a spaced apart arrangement. The multiple tie stacks are configured to extend substantially perpendicular between substantially parallel panel structures. Each tie stack includes one or more base members and one or more wall ties, each of which directly attach to each other in a vertically stacked arrangement. Full Article
stem Double linkage triggering system used for crossbow By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 24 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EDT Disclosed is a double linkage triggering system including a main body, which has a trigger unit and a shooting unit. The trigger unit is capable of being contacted with the shooting unit. The trigger unit comprises a bracket body, a trigger block, a hammer, a trigger power-adjusting bolt, a triggering mechanism and a trigger-safety device. The hammer is hinge connected to the bracket body. The trigger block is hinge connected to the bracket body and each end of the trigger block is respectively capable of being limited by the hammer and the trigger power-adjusting bolt. The shooting unit has a sight stand, a guide device, a pressure plate, a rotary latch, a roof plate, a latching plate, a returning device, and an anti-empty shooting mechanism. The returning device is inserted into the roof plate. The roof plate is hinge connected to the latching plate. Full Article
stem Double bow system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 07 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT This invention belongs to the group of projectile throwing instruments working without an explosive or a combustible propelling charge in particular to the group of projectile throwing instruments using strained hard body energy and can be used for the design and construction of a missile throwing weapon using a string—namely a bow and crossbow. Full Article
stem Limb bolt system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 21 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A traditional archery bow assembly includes a handle assembly, a bowstring, and a first limb bolt assembly. The handle assembly includes a riser, an upper limb, and a lower limb, wherein the upper and lower limbs each include a distal end and a proximal end connected to the riser. The bowstring extends between the distal ends of the upper and lower limbs. The first limb bolt assembly is operable to connect one of the upper and lower limbs to the riser. The first limb bolt assembly includes a shank portion and a head portion, wherein the head portion defines a contact surface that faces and contacts the one of the upper and lower limbs, and is pivotable relative to the shank portion. Full Article
stem Articulated hollowing system for lathe By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 24 Nov 1998 08:00:00 EST A manually directed lathe tool system for removal of internally disposed material and creating a void inside a lathe turned form. As shown in FIG. 1, an articulated boring bar (32) of a tubular crosssection is slidably manipulated and supported by a plane surface (140) during a cutting action. To increase offset cutting ability several different lengths of a detachable and hinged arm assembly (40) are used. Arm assembly can be fixed or moved to three different positions relative to boring bar (FIG. 2) by manipulating a hand knob (36). A moveable and replaceable cutting tool (198) is held at the end of the arm assembly. A wall thickness caliper system (44) which ends in a tip (130) of some flexible material to allow operator appraisal of the internally disposed cutting tool's position. A back restraint assembly (141) is used to prevent the downward pitch of the boring bar's cutting end during material removal and consequent upward pitch of the opposite end of the boring bar, and especially during a highly leveraged cutting action. An outrider (38) attached to the boring bar prevents rotational movement of the tool relative to its longitudinal axis, especially during a leveraged offset cutting action. The outrider is able to be attached at several different locations on the boring bar and also serves as the support for the caliper system. Platform base (34B) is mounted rigidly to the lathe bed (30) and maintains platform assembly (34A) at a proper height. A precise wall thickness that mirrors the outside form can be achieved with this system. The system can be used to hollow-out forms not possible with previous practice. A narrow and restricted mouth opening does not hinder hollowing-out large diameters and deep forms. The operator is in control during all leveraged cutting actions and experiences minimal operator fatigue. Full Article
stem Visual system for programming of simultaneous and synchronous machining operations on lathes By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 25 May 2004 08:00:00 EDT A system and method allows visual programming of simultaneous and synchronous machining operations on multi-axis lathes. The system and method accounts for different combinations of simultaneous and synchronized lathe operations on the spindles which can utilize multiple tools. A graphic synchronization icon is assigned to each mode that preferably represents the lathe operation. Appropriate synchronous operations are grouped together in synchronization groups. The system and method are universal since a postprocessor processes the synchronization modes and synchronization groups, and translates them for use with computer programs understood by a particular CNC lathe. Full Article
stem Cutting tool and system for coring a bowl using a lathe By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 25 Apr 2006 08:00:00 EDT A cutting tool piece is provided including a rear portion and a lead portion, the lead portion including a front section having an upper side angled downwardly and forwardly and a lower side angled upwardly and forwardly to form a transverse lead cutting edge. The rear portion includes a hole to secure the tool piece to a cutting tool and transverse cutting edges extending outwardly from side walls of the front section. A system is also described for cutting a bowl by coring out an interior portion of a wood block by applying the cutting tool which is curved and rotatably mounted to a post. Its lead end with the tool piece attached creates a circular groove. The cutting tool is advanced on a path which curves toward the central axis of the lathe. Full Article
stem Hollowing system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 20 Mar 2007 08:00:00 EDT A hollowing system for a lathe having a tool rest. The hollowing system comprises a boring member, and a stabilization assembly. The boring member is adapted to support a tool such that at least one of the boring member and the tool extend past and engage the tool rest. The stabilization assembly is mountable adjacent to the lathe. The stabilization assembly supports the boring member such that the boring member extends generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the lathe. The stabilization assembly has a vertical axis and a horizontal axis. The stabilization assembly is adapted to prevent downward movement of the tool when the stabilization assembly is mounted adjacent to the lathe and the tool is positioned on the tool rest. The stabilization assembly is provided with an articulation assembly. The articulation assembly supports the boring member and permits horizontal movement of the boring member about the vertical axis, while also permitting lateral movement of the boring member in a horizontal direction. Full Article
stem Cutting tool and system for coring a bowl using a lathe By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 04 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EDT A cutting tool piece is provided including a rear portion and a lead portion, the lead portion including a front section having an upper side angled downwardly and forwardly and a lower side angled upwardly and forwardly to form a transverse lead cutting edge. The rear portion includes a hole to secure the tool piece to a cutting tool and transverse cutting edges extending outwardly from side walls of the front section. A system is also described for cutting a bowl by coring out an interior portion of a wood block by applying the cutting tool which is curved and rotatably mounted to a post. Its lead end with the tool piece attached creates a circular groove. The cutting tool is advanced on a path which curves toward the central axis of the lathe. Full Article
stem Display panel and system for displaying images utilizing the same By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 19 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT An embodiment of the invention provides a display panel, which includes a substrate having a pixel region and a peripheral region, a conducting layer overlying the substrate in the peripheral region, a first insulating layer overlying the conducting layer in the peripheral region, wherein a ratio between an area of the first insulating layer and an area of the conducting layer in the peripheral region is between about 0.27 and 0.99, a lower electrode layer overlying the first insulating layer, a second insulating layer overlying the lower electrode layer, and an upper electrode layer overlying the second insulating layer. Full Article
stem Magnetically adjusting color-converting materials within a matrix and associated devices, systems, and methods By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT Magnetically adjusting color-converting particles within a matrix and associated devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein. A magnetic-adjustment process can include applying a magnetic field to a mixture including a non-solid matrix and a plurality of color-converting particles (e.g. magnetically anisotropic color-converting particles). The magnetic field can cause the plurality of color-converting particles to move into a generally non-random alignment (e.g., a generally non-random magnetic alignment and/or a generally non-random shape alignment) within the non-solid matrix. The non-solid matrix then can be solidified to form a solid matrix. A magnetic-adjustment process can be performed in conjunction with testing and/or product binning of solid-state radiation transducer devices. For example, a position, direction, strength, or duration of a magnetic field used to perform a magnetic-adjustment process can be controlled according to optical output collected from a solid-state radiation transducer device. Measuring the optical output and performing the magnetic-adjustment process can be at least partially concurrent. Full Article
stem System for attachment of an electrode into a plasma source By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 09 Jun 2015 08:00:00 EDT An inductively coupled plasma charged particle source for focused ion beam systems includes a plasma reaction chamber with a removably attached source electrode. A fastening mechanism connects the source electrode with the plasma reaction chamber and allows for a heat-conductive, vacuum seal to form. With a removable source electrode, improved serviceability and reuse of the plasma source tube are now possible. Full Article
stem Beer dispensing device and system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT The present invention provides an easy to use, convenient, compact, energy efficient, labor efficient, cost-effective, fast, safe, neat, electricity-independent, self-contained, portable beer dispensing device and system that uses CO2 or other acceptable gas to maintain the freshness of beer, presents a ready height and arrangement for dispensing chilled fresh beer, and can be used in a variety of professional, casual, indoor and/or outdoor settings. The present invention chills beer before it is dispensed but after it has been removed from the keg. The present invention incorporates use of a gas tank to propel beer from the keg, through the beer dispensing device and system so that the beer inside the keg will not go flat. The present invention offers a convenient arrangement of its components that simplifies its use, transport, set up, and break down. The present invention also provides a space efficient arrangement for dispensing chilled, draft beer. Full Article
stem Method and system for adjusting the flow rate of charge material in a charging process of a shaft furnace By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT In a charging process of a shaft furnace, in particular of a blast furnace, batches of charge material are typically discharged in cyclical sequence into the furnace from a top hopper using a flow control valve. A method and system is proposed for adjusting the flow rate of charge material in such a process. Pre-determined valve characteristics for certain types of material are provided, each indicating the relation between flow rate and valve setting for one type of material. According to the invention, a specific valve characteristic is stored for each batch of charge material, each specific valve characteristic being bijectively associated to one batch and indicating the relation between flow rate and valve setting of the flow control valve specifically for the associated batch. In relation to discharging a given batch of the sequence the invention proposes: using the stored specific valve characteristic associated to the given batch for determining a requested valve setting corresponding to a flow rate setpoint and using the requested valve setting to operate the flow control valve; determining an actual average flow rate for the discharge of the given batch; correcting the stored specific valve characteristic associated to the given batch in case of a stipulated deviation between the flow rate setpoint and the actual average flow rate. Full Article
stem Automatic pacing system for a baby bottle By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 19 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT An insert which is useable with a baby bottle, a baby bottle including an insert, and a method of feeding an infant that serves to pace the infant's feeding rhythm. Generally, these devices and methods will be of use for a preterm infant, but that is by no means limiting because full term infants could also benefit from these devices and methods. The device generally cues the infant to swallow and breathe after each 1-4 sucks by stopping the flow of the fluid from the bottle after the infant has sucked sufficiently. Once the baby breathes, the bottle resets for the next repetition. Full Article
stem Rotary actuator for energy efficient ice cube dispenser door system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 19 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A rotary actuator suitable for use in a refrigerator ice-dispensing door provides a rotating shaft driven by a DC permanent magnet motor through a gear train and subject to a returning force of an internal spring. The gear train communicates with a switch to reduce current to the motor when a limit of travel is reached and a shunting path is provided around the motor to produce generative braking when power is removed from the motor and the actuator rotates backward to its initial position. Full Article
stem Devices, systems, and methods for adherence monitoring and devices, systems, and methods for monitoring use of consumable dispensers By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 19 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT Devices, systems, and methods are provided for adherence monitoring, and devices, systems, and methods are provided for monitoring use of consumable dispensers. In general, the devices, systems, and methods can facilitate an individual's adherence to a schedule for consuming consumables and can facilitate monitoring and tracking of the individual's adherence to the schedule. The devices, systems, and methods can allow data regarding the individual's historical adherence to the schedule to be accessible via a computer system. In one embodiment, an accessory is provided that can be configured to attach to consumable dispensers. The accessory can be configured to be removably and replaceably coupled to the dispenser. The accessory can be configured to provide a notification to a user indicating that a certain event occurred and/or that a certain action needs to be taken. The accessory can be configured to sense attachment thereof to and removal thereof from the dispenser. Full Article
stem Fluid processing systems and methods By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT Systems and methods for delivering fluid-containing feed materials to process equipment are disclosed. A liner-based pressure dispensing vessel is subjected to filling by application of vacuum between the liner and overpack. Multiple feed material flow controllers of different calibrated flow ranges may be selectively operated in parallel for a single feed material. Feed material blending and testing for scale-up may be performed with feed materials supplied by multiple liner-based pressure dispensing containers. A gravimetric system may be used to determine concentration of at least one component of a multi-component solution or mixture. Full Article
stem Fluid dispensing unit having a circulation system and a method for circulating a fluid in a fluid dispensing unit By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A dispensing unit is provided having a circulation system for circulating a fluid in the dispensing unit. The circulation system includes a circulation circuit and a mechanism for circulating the fluid in the circulation circuit. By circulating the fluid, the fluid is counteracted from crystallizing. A method for circulating a fluid in a dispensing unit is also provided. Full Article
stem Method of conditioning a body of water by delivering different dispersant combinations through a floating generally spherical dispenser system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A dispenser system for delivering various combinations of dispersants to a body of water with the various combinations of dispersants supplied to the body of water through the interchanging of dispensing cartridges which are attachable to a main dispensing cartridge where a condition for interchanging of dispensing cartridges may be triggered by an event. Full Article
stem Smart home system and operation method thereof By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A smart home system having a controller which controls an ozone generator, gas supply outlets connected to gas supply outlets of the ozone generator via a pipe, and solenoid valves which control opening and closing of the gas supply outlets. The controller is connected with each of the solenoid valves and controls opening and closing of each of the solenoid valves. An operation method for the system discloses driving the ozone generator by the controller to generate ozone, controlling opening of the solenoid valves by the central processor when the central processor receives an external signal for opening the solenoid valves, reducing opening level of the solenoid valves when a gas flow sensor detects that the ozone flow rate passing through the gas inlet is greater than the flow rate threshold, and controlling closing of the solenoid valves by the central processor when the central processor receives a signal for closing the solenoid valves. Full Article
stem Methods and systems for multi-dimensional motion By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST An apparatus includes: a primary anchoring element, a beam mount movably connected to the primary anchoring element, a beam connected to the beam mount, a vessel mount movably connected to the beam, a vessel connected to the vessel mount, the vessel being movable along at least a vertical axis, and a control unit within the vessel. The control unit is configured to accept control input from a passenger within the vessel and transmit at least one control signal to cause the beam to move relative to the primary anchoring element, the vessel mount to move relative to the beam, and the vessel to move relative to the vessel mount independently. Full Article
stem Connection system, with self-alignment, for elevator guides By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST Connection system, with self-alignment, for elevator guides, in which the front surfaces thereof maintain a perfect 90° angle with respect to the longitudinal axis (e) of each guide (1) and there is a connection plate (2) that forms through-holes (241) that are offset and in correspondence with holes (141) in the wings (14), such that, when connection means (3) are mounted therein, a front self-alignment pressure is created between the two guides (1). Full Article
stem On-train rail track monitoring system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST An automatic inspection system is provided for monitoring rail track for detecting and generating alerts for certain hazards to the operation of trains that may cause various safety concerns and even derailment. The monitoring is during normal railway service runs without interrupting the normal railway services. In one implementation, an imaging module is used on a passenger or freight train to capture video images of the rail track under the train in motion. In one implementation, the captured video images are automatically processed in a computer using a software module which is based on digital image processing techniques and algorithms to determine whether an irregularity is present on the rail track. In one implementation, video images containing detected irregularities on the rail track are transmitted to a control center for further analysis and possible alert. Full Article
stem Personal transportation rail system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 10 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST The personal transportation rail system includes an automated, elevated single lane throughway comprising multi-gauge rail track arranged in various combinations. A computerized control system regulates spacing of vehicles while maintaining uniform speed. The rail switching is accomplished by variable gauge rail wheels on the vehicle, which selectively engage or avoid engaging with various wider rail-gauge tracks. On-ramps extend from a guideway station and are taken by the vehicle temporarily engaging with a descending wide-gauge section of track that ends side by side in parallel with the narrow-gauge track. Off-ramps lead into the guideway station as the vehicle engages with the wide-gauge section of throughway track initially in parallel with the narrow-gauge track, the wide-gauge track ascending to remove the vehicle from the main rail line. Bypassing the guideway station involves continuing engagement of the variable gauge wheels with the narrow-gauge track. A level pitch is maintained during climbing and descending. Full Article