Packaging

A packaging material comprises an outer material layer 52 bonded to an inner material layer 50 by way of adhesive 58 applied to at least a portion of the outer and/or inner material layers, wherein the packaging comprises at least one openable flap or panel (24, Fig. 1) defined by at least one outer score line 54 or cut located in the outer material layer and at least one inner score line 56 or cut located in the inner material layer. The outer and inner score lines or cuts are off-set to provide a marginal region 34 between the score lines or cuts, wherein adhesive is located in the marginal region and an adhesive strength reduction agent 60 is applied to at least a portion of the adhesive in the marginal region. The openable flap or panel may be resealable. The adhesive strength reduction agent can comprise a silicone, acrylate or vinyl material. A package comprising the packaging material and a method of forming the packaging material are also claimed.

Task-oriented book with functional features for facilitating experiential learning

A book is disclosed for facilitating experiential learning. The book includes a first task packet that includes a collection of preview material that introduces a task without revealing what the task is. The first task packet also includes a collection of description material that identifies what the task is. Finally, the first task packet includes a commitment mechanism configured to discourage a reader from proceeding from the collection of preview material to the collection of description material until the reader is committed to performing the task.

System for Managing Risk in Employee Travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may notify affected users of the travel risk management system of the occurrence of a risk management event during travel. The travel risk management system may store geographic location information for a plurality of users of the travel risk management system, determine the occurrence of a risk management event, determine a geographic location of the risk management event and compare the geographic location of the risk management event to the stored geographic location information for the users. The system may execute a risk management event response in response to determining that a geographic location of at least one of the users is at the geographic location of the risk management event. The response may include transmitting a risk management event notification message to a portable computing device for each user located in the affected area. 1. A method for notifying affected users of a travel risk management system of the occurrence of a risk management event during travel , the method comprising:storing geographic location information for a plurality of users of the travel risk management system;determining the occurrence of a risk management event;determining a geographic location of the risk management event;comparing the geographic location of the risk management event to the stored geographic location information for the users; andexecuting a risk management event response in response to determining that a geographic location of at least one of the users is at the geographic location of the risk management event.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the occurrence of the risk management event comprises receiving input information for the risk management event from a user at a computing device of the travel risk management system.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the occurrence of the risk management event comprises receiving risk management event information from an emergency response ...

SYSTEM FOR MANAGING RISK IN EMPLOYEE TRAVEL

A system for managing risk in employee travel may track a location of users of the travel risk management system during travel. Travel itinerary information for a user may be input into the travel risk management system, including user identification information, travel date information and geographic location information for travel destinations. During the travel period, the system may communicate with a portable computing device to determine the user's actual location, and update the stored travel itinerary information if the user's actual location is different than the user's expected location. The system may transmit a location request message to the user's portable computing device, or a mobile application may cause the portable computing device to transmit the user's location without prompting. 1. A method for tracking a location of users of a travel risk management system during travel , the method comprising:inputting travel itinerary information for a user of the travel risk management system into a user travel database of the system, wherein the travel itinerary information includes user identification information, travel date information for the time period in which the user is traveling, and geographic location information for at least one destination of the user during the travel time period;during the travel time period, communicating with a portable computing device of the user to determine an actual location of the user;comparing the actual location of the user to an expected location of the user determined based on the stored travel itinerary information; andupdating the stored travel itinerary information with the actual location of the user in response to determining that the actual location of the user is different than the expected location of the user from the travel itinerary information.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein inputting travel itinerary information comprises entering travel itinerary information at a computing device of the travel ...

System for managing risk in employee travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may notify affected users of the travel risk management system of the occurrence of a risk management event during travel. The travel risk management system may store geographic location information for a plurality of users of the travel risk management system, determine the occurrence of a risk management event, determine a geographic location of the risk management event and compare the geographic location of the risk management event to the stored geographic location information for the users. The system may execute a risk management event response in response to determining that a geographic location of at least one of the users is at the geographic location of the risk management event. The response may include transmitting a risk management event notification message to a portable computing device for each user located in the affected area.

Examiner information system

A patent Examiner information accessing system access patent Examiner information from a Patent and Trademark Office, or other, database. A search system is provided so that a user can search information aggregated by the Examiner information accessing system.

System for managing risk in employee travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may display a world risk map having countries color coded or otherwise indicating a risk level associated with each of the countries. The countries may be assigned to geographic groupings, such as continents, and the countries of the geographic grouping may change to a uniform color or other indication when the cursor is disposed within the boundaries of one of the countries of the geographic grouping. Clicking on the geographic grouping may cause the world risk map may cause the display to zoom in on an enlarged geographic group map with the countries displayed with their risk level indication. Clicking on one of the countries may cause a country information page to be displayed.

System for managing risk in employee travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may control access by users to the travel risk management system. The travel risk management system may receive and store company information for a client company subscribing to the travel risk management system, and allow activation code packages to be defined for allowing a specified number of activation codes to be generated for the subscribing client company. Once the activation code packages are defined, the specified number of activation codes may be generated and assigned to employee's of the subscribing client company. The system may provide for defining super admin users authorized to input client company information and define activation code packages, and client admin users authorized to select activation code packages, and generate and assign the activation codes to users.

System for managing risk in employee travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may track a location of users of the travel risk management system during travel. Travel itinerary information for a user may be input into the travel risk management system, including user identification information, travel date information and geographic location information for travel destinations. During the travel period, the system may communicate with a portable computing device to determine the user's actual location, and update the stored travel itinerary information if the user's actual location is different than the user's expected location. The system may transmit a location request message to the user's portable computing device, or a mobile application may cause the portable computing device to transmit the user's location without prompting.

System for Managing Risk in Employee Travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may control access by users to the travel risk management system. The travel risk management system may receive and store company information for a client company subscribing to the travel risk management system, and allow activation code packages to be defined for allowing a specified number of activation codes to be generated for the subscribing client company. Once the activation code packages are defined, the specified number of activation codes may be generated and assigned to employee's of the subscribing client company. The system may provide for defining super admin users authorized to input client company information and define activation code packages, and client admin users authorized to select activation code packages, and generate and assign the activation codes to users. 1. A method for controlling access by user to a travel risk management system , the method comprising:inputting company information for a client company subscribing to the travel risk management system at a computing device of the travel risk management system;defining an activation code package having a package activation code amount specifying a number of activation codes that can be generated for the activation code package;storing the company information and the activation code package at a database server of the travel risk management system;selecting the activation code package for generation of activation codes for the subscribing client company from the activation code package;specifying a generate activation code amount to generate from the activation code package, wherein the generate activation code amount is less than or equal to the package activation code amount;generating the specified generation activation code amount of activation codes for the subscribing client company; andstoring the generated activation codes in the database server.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:defining a super admin user of the travel risk ...

Package

Packaging

Silicon hydride nanocrystals as catalysts for proton production in water-organic liquid mixtures

Embodiments of the present methods may be used to produce energy in the form of an electrical current from water without the use of fossil fuel. Silicon hydride is very easy to make. This procedure in conjunction with an enzyme to produce hydrogen gas for fuel cells and other small devices. In fuel cells the production of protons may be bypassed, and an oxidant such as permanganate or oxygen from air may be used to drive the fuel cells. In such an embodiment, an intermediate reaction may not be needed to produce protons. In one embodiment, membrane-less laminar flow fuel cells with an external grid for oxygen supply from the air may be used.

System for Managing Risk in Employee Travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may display a world risk map having countries color coded or otherwise indicating a risk level associated with each of the countries. The countries may be assigned to geographic groupings, such as continents, and the countries of the geographic grouping may change to a uniform color or other indication when the cursor is disposed within the boundaries of one of the countries of the geographic grouping. Clicking on the geographic grouping may cause the world risk map may cause the display to zoom in on an enlarged geographic group map with the countries displayed with their risk level indication. Clicking on one of the countries may cause a country information page to be displayed. 1. A method for selecting a country from a displayed map in a travel risk management system , the method comprising:storing for each of a plurality of countries a risk level value and an assignment in a geographic grouping of countries such that a plurality of countries within a similar geographic area are assigned to the same geographic grouping;displaying a world map of all the countries on a display device of a computing device, wherein each country is displayed on the world map with a graphical indication corresponding to the stored risk level value for the country;detecting a position of a cursor of the display device within the boundaries of one of the countries on the world map;displaying all countries having the same geographic group assignment with a geographic group indicator corresponding to the geographic group assignment of the country in whose boundaries the cursor is disposed in response to detecting the position of the cursor within the boundaries of the country;detecting actuation of an input device of the display device when the cursor is disposed within the boundaries of the country; anddisplaying on the display device in response to detecting the actuation of the input device an enlarged geographic group map including the ...

Systems and methods for providing information about patent examiners

A data accessing system provides information about patent examiners. The system includes a user interface and a data search component. The user interface is accessible over a wide area network and is configured to receive a patent examiner identification input identifying a patent examiner, and a data request. The data search component is configured, in response to the data request, to retrieve patent-related writings generated by the patent examiner is prosecuting a plurality of different patent applications.

MULTI-LAYER FILM AND RECLOSABLE FILM PACKAGE

A multi-layer film and a film package made from the film are described herein that provide resealing capabilities by utilizing a tacky layer within the multi-layer film. The multi-layer film can include an outer film portion including the embedded tacky layer and an inner film portion. An opening feature formed in the multi-layer film includes a flap configured to be manipulated by a user to create an opening through the multi-layer film. The inner film portion can include a release layer configured specifically to interact with the tacky layer to provide a desired separation peel force and resealing functionalities. The outer film portion can include an outer film layer disposed on an opposite side of the tacky layer from the release layer that is configured to permanently adhere to the tacky layer. 112-. (canceled)14. A method of forming a package comprising:extruding a multilayer film with a first film layer and a second film layer with an embedded coextruded bonding layer therebetween;forming a first cut through the first film layer at least to the embedded coextruded bonding layer;adhering a base film, via an adhesive lamination layer, to the first film layer thereby creating a multi-ply multilayer film and forming a non-adhering zone between portions of the base film and the first film layer;forming an outer cut in the base film that extends through the base film and at least partially through the embedded coextruded bonding layer and a portion of the outer cut coincides with the non-adhering zone to form, in part, a pull tab;forming an inner cut extending from the second film layer at least to the embedded coextruded bonding layer; andwrapping the multi-ply multilayer film around contents and sealing the multi-ply multilayer film to form an individual package, wherein the package has a resealable opening.15. The method of wherein the step of forming the outer cut comprises forming a multi-depth outer cut with a first portion disposed adjacent a portion of the ...

Multi-layer film and reclosable film package

A multi-layer film and a film package made from the film are described herein that provide resealing capabilities by utilizing a tacky layer within the multi-layer film. The multi-layer film can include an outer film portion including the embedded tacky layer and an inner film portion. An opening feature formed in the multi-layer film includes a flap configured to be manipulated by a user to create an opening through the multi-layer film. The inner film portion can include a release layer configured specifically to interact with the tacky layer to provide a desired separation peel force and resealing functionalities. The outer film portion can include an outer film layer disposed on an opposite side of the tacky layer from the release layer that is configured to permanently adhere to the tacky layer.

MULTI-LAYER FILM AND RECLOSABLE FILM PACKAGE

A multi-layer film and a film package made from the film are described herein that provide resealing capabilities by utilizing a tacky layer within the multi-layer film. The multi-layer film can include an outer film portion including the embedded tacky layer and an inner film portion. An opening feature formed in the multi-layer film includes a flap configured to be manipulated by a user to create an opening through the multi-layer film. The inner film portion can include a release layer configured specifically to interact with the tacky layer to provide a desired separation peel force and resealing functionalities. The outer film portion can include an outer film layer disposed on an opposite side of the tacky layer from the release layer that is configured to permanently adhere to the tacky layer.

System for managing risk in employee travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may track a location of users of the travel risk management system during travel. Travel itinerary information for a user may be input into the travel risk management system, including user identification information, travel date information and geographic location information for travel destinations. During the travel period, the system may communicate with a portable computing device to determine the user's actual location, and update the stored travel itinerary information if the user's actual location is different than the user's expected location. The system may transmit a location request message to the user's portable computing device, or a mobile application may cause the portable computing device to transmit the user's location without prompting.

Ceramic H2S sensor

A sensor capable of monitoring hydrogen sulfide in a hydrogen-containing background. The sensor comprises novel sulfur sensitive materials that may be deposited as a thin film or thick film in a chemi-resistor format. The novel sulfur sensitive materials may comprise a single component oxide material or a composite of two or more oxide materials. The sensors respond reversibly to H2S in a reducing gas environment, with a corresponding change in their electrical resistance that can be used to quantify the amount of H2S present in the reducing gas.

System for Managing Risk in Employee Travel

A system for managing risk in employee travel may track a location of users of the travel risk management system during travel. Travel itinerary information for a user may be input into the travel risk management system, including user identification information, travel date information and geographic location information for travel destinations. During the travel period, the system may communicate with a portable computing device to determine the user's actual location, and update the stored travel itinerary information if the user's actual location is different than the user's expected location. The system may transmit a location request message to the user's portable computing device, or a mobile application may cause the portable computing device to transmit the user's location without prompting. 1. A method for tracking a location of users of a travel risk management system during travel and notifying the users of travel risk , the method comprising:inputting travel itinerary information for a user of the travel risk management system into a user travel database of the system, wherein the travel itinerary information includes user identification information, travel date information for the time period in which the user is traveling, and geographic location information for at least one destination of the user during the travel time period;during the travel time period, communicating with a portable computing device of the user to determine an actual location of the user;comparing the actual location of the user to an expected location of the user determined based on the stored travel itinerary information;updating the travel itinerary information with the actual location of the user in response to determining that the actual location of the user is different than the expected location of the user from the travel itinerary information;storing on the system travel risk information for a plurality of countries;determining an occurrence of a risk management event ...

MULTICHANNEL CONTROLLER

Multichannel device controllers are disclosed. In one embodiment, a multichannel device controller includes a plurality of user selectable control modes for controlling a multichannel device and a plurality of user configurable settings for adjusting parameters associated with the plurality of user selectable control modes. A touchscreen displays a user interface corresponding to a selected one of plurality of user selectable control modes and receives user input indicative of a command to send to the multichannel device. A processor generates the command to send to the multichannel device based at least in part on the user input and the plurality of user configurable settings. 1. A multichannel device controller comprising:a plurality of user selectable control modes for controlling a multichannel device;a plurality of user configurable settings for adjusting parameters associated with the plurality of user selectable control modes;a touchscreen that displays a user interface corresponding to a selected one of the plurality of user selectable control modes and that receives user input indicative of a command to send to the multichannel device; anda processor that generates the command to send to the multichannel device based at least in part on the user input and the plurality of user configurable settings.2. The multichannel device controller of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of user selectable control modes includes a touchpad mode claim 1 , a joystick mode claim 1 , a trackball mode claim 1 , a touchpad/sliders combination mode claim 1 , a touchpad/wheels combination mode claim 1 , a joystick/wheels combination mode claim 1 , and a trackball/sliders combination mode.3. The multichannel device controller of claim 1 , wherein the multichannel device includes a camera claim 1 , and wherein the user interface displays video from the camera.4. The multichannel device controller of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of user configurable settings include a speed setting ...

CORPORATE DASHBOARD FOR EXAMINER INFORMATION SYSTEM

A patent Examiner information accessing system is disclosed for accessing patent Examiner information from a Patent and Trademark Office, or other, database. A search system is provided so that a user can search information aggregated by the Examiner information accessing system. 1. A computer implemented method performed by a computer with a processor , the method comprising:receiving, at the processor, an assignee name input;accessing, with the processor, an examiner data system based on the assignee name;identifying, with the processor, a set of patent examiners in the examiner data system that examine patent applications assigned to an assignee represented by the assignee name;calculating patent prosecution statistics for the identified set of patent examiners based only on patent applications assigned to the assignee; andautomatically displaying, on a user interface display, the patent prosecution statistics along with a list of the identified set of patent examiners on a user interface display, each displayed patent examiner in the identified set being displayed with a corresponding actuable user input which when actuated, causes the processor to automatically display patent prosecution statistics for the patent examiner corresponding to the actuated user input.2. The computer implemented method of wherein automatically displaying the patent prosecution statistics comprises:displaying a plurality of actuable scope selector input mechanisms, each corresponding to a scope unit associated with a subset of the patent applications assigned to the assignee;receiving actuation of a selected one of the scope selector input mechanisms;calculating scoped patent prosecution statistics based only on the subset of patent applications corresponding to the selected scope selector input mechanism; anddisplaying the scoped patent prosecution statistics.3. The computer implemented method of and further comprising:identifying a set of legal representatives that prosecute the ...

Silicon Hydride Nanocrystals as Catalysts for Proton Production in Water-Organic Liquid Mixtures

Embodiments of the present methods may be used to produce energy in the form of an electrical current from water without the use of fossil fuel. Silicon hydride is very easy to make. This procedure in conjunction with an enzyme to produce hydrogen gas for fuel cells and other small devices. In fuel cells the production of protons may be bypassed, and an oxidant such as permanganate or oxygen from air may be used to drive the fuel cells. In such an embodiment, an intermediate reaction may not be needed to produce protons. In one embodiment, membrane-less laminar flow fuel cells with an external grid for oxygen supply from the air may be used.

USER INTERACE AND PROCESSING FUNCTIONALITY FOR PATENT EXAMINER INFORMATION SYSTEM

A patent Examiner information accessing system is disclosed for accessing patent Examiner information from a Patent and Trademark Office, or other, database. A search system is provided so that a user can search information aggregated by the Examiner information accessing system. 1. A computer-implemented method , performed by a computer with a computer processor , the method comprising:receiving a patent examiner name, identifying a single named patent examiner, input through a user interface display generated by the computer processor;searching, with the computer processor, a patent examiner data store for examiner statistics, representing examination performance and calculated from a plurality of different patent applications worked on by the single named patent examiner; andautomatically displaying the examiner statistics, using the computer processor, for the single named patent examiner.2. The computer-implemented method of and further comprising:displaying a user-actuable compare button proximate at least one of the examiner statistics.3. The computer-implemented method of and further comprising:receiving user actuation of the user-actuable compare button; andin response to the user actuation, automatically generating a comparison display showing a relative ranking of the single named patent examiner, relative to a group of additional patent examiners, based on the at least one of the examiner statistics.4. The computer-implemented method of wherein automatically generating the comparison display comprises:automatically generating the comparison display showing a relative ranking of the single named patent examiner, relative to patent examiners in a same group art unit as the single named patent examiner, based on the at least one of the examiner statistics.5. The computer-implemented method of wherein automatically generating the comparison display comprises:automatically generating the comparison display showing a relative ranking of the single named patent ...

CAMERA MOTION CONTROL SYSTEM WITH VARIABLE AUTONOMY

Variable autonomy level control systems are provided. A control system illustratively include an analog communications support component, a digital communications support component, a processing component, and a motor controller. The processing component synthesizes inputs received from the analog and the digital communications support components to generate an output. The motor controller utilizes the output from the processing component to generate a control signal for a motor. In certain embodiments, the input from the digital communications support component includes an indication of an autonomy level, and the processing component synthesizes the inputs by applying the autonomy level to the input received from the analog communications support component. 1. A control circuit board comprising:an analog communications support component;a digital communications support component;a processing component that synthesizes inputs received from the analog and the digital communications support components to generate an output; anda motor controller that utilizes the output from the processing component to generate a control signal for a motor.2. The control circuit board of claim 1 , wherein the digital communications support component includes a wireless communications module.3. The control circuit board of claim 2 , wherein the wireless communications module is communicatively coupled to a digital control input mechanism utilizing an ad-hoc wireless network.4. The control circuit board of claim 1 , wherein the input from the digital communications support component includes a sensitivity setting claim 1 , and wherein the processing component synthesizes the inputs by applying the sensitivity setting to the input received from the analog communications support component.5. The control circuit board of claim 1 , wherein the input from the digital communications support component includes a speed setting claim 1 , and wherein the processing component synthesizes the ...

DIAPHRAGM VALVE AND METHODS AND ACCESSORIES THEREFOR

Various diaphragm valves and accessories therefore are disclosed herein which improve on existing diaphragm valves and accessories and overcome many of the shortcomings of same. Related methods to these valves and accessories and/or their manufacture, assembly or use are also disclosed. 1. A method of monitoring fluid flow in an irrigation system comprising:establishing at least one normal fluid flow parameter through the irrigation system via an initial learning period;monitoring current fluid flow through the irrigation system;determining, by a processor based apparatus, if the current fluid flow is consistent with the at least one normal fluid flow parameter; andtaking action in response to a determination that the current fluid flow is not consistent with the at least one normal fluid flow parameter.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein taking action comprises at least one of shutting a valve and providing an alert that current fluid flow is not consistent with the at least one parameter.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the alert comprises at least one of sending a notice to a user claim 2 , triggering an audible alarm claim 2 , and displaying a visual indicator.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein sending a notice comprises transmitting a signal to a remote device.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein establishing the at least one normal fluid flow parameter comprises activating a learn mode through an input and determining what normal fluid flow through the irrigation system is during a period of time when the system is known to be operating normally.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein establishing the at least one normal fluid flow parameter comprises adding an upper and lower threshold buffer to the determined normal fluid flow through the irrigation system to account for acceptable variances in fluid flow rate due to pressure changes within the irrigation system.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein establishing the at least one normal fluid flow parameter comprises ...

METHOD FOR PRODUCING BN-BASED NANOPARTICLES AND PRODUCTS THEREFROM

A method of forming boron nitride nanoparticles. A plurality of precursor molecules comprising boron, nitrogen and hydrogen may be decomposed in a first heating zone to form a plurality of gaseous molecules that contain bonded boron and nitrogen, followed by heating to a second, higher temperature thereby causing the gaseous molecules to react and nucleate to form a plurality of boron nitride nanoparticles. Depending on processing temperatures, the boron nitride nanoparticles may include amorphous forms, crystalline forms, or combinations thereof. Precursor molecules may include ammonia borane, borazine, cycloborazanes, polyaminoborane, polyiminoborane, and mixtures thereof. The boron nitride nanoparticles may be incorporated into a variety of dispersions, composites, and coatings; and in one embodiment, may be a component of a propellant, wherein the boron nitride nanoparticles may confer a range of advantages to gun barrels in which such propellants may be fired. 1. A method of forming boron nitride nanoparticles , comprising the steps of:a) volatilizing a plurality of precursor molecules comprising boron, nitrogen and hydrogen in a first heating zone having a first predetermined temperature to form a plurality of gaseous molecules that comprise bonded boron and nitrogen;b) carrying the gaseous molecules comprising bonded boron and nitrogen to a second heating zone having a second predetermined temperature thereby causing the molecules to react and nucleate to form a plurality of solid boron nitride nanoparticles comprising boron and nitrogen; andc) collecting the boron nitride nanoparticles.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of volatilizing a plurality of precursor molecules comprises decomposing the plurality of precursor molecules.3. The method according to where the plurality of precursor molecules are selected from the group of precursor molecules consisting of ammonia borane claim 1 , borazine claim 1 , cycloborazanes claim 1 , ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING MULTIPLE CRYOGENIC HYDRAULIC TURBINES

There is provided a system and method for producing liquefied natural gas (LNG). An exemplary method includes flowing a high-pressure stream of LNG through a first series of liquid turbines. The exemplary method also includes generating electricity by reducing the pressure of the high-pressure stream of LNG to form a low-pressure stream of LNG. The exemplary method additionally includes bypassing any one the liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity from the first series. 1. A method for generating electricity from liquid turbines , comprising:flowing a high-pressure liquid stream through a first plurality of liquid turbines coupled in a first series, wherein, after a first turbine in the series, an inlet of each liquid turbine is coupled to an outlet of a proceeding liquid turbine;generating electricity from the first series by removing energy from the high-pressure liquid stream to form a low-pressure liquid stream; andbypassing any one of the first plurality of liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity with the remaining turbines of the first series.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:maintaining the total electrical output from the first series as a constant value when a liquid turbine is bypassed.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:maintaining the pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the low-pressure liquid stream from the first series when a liquid turbine is bypassed.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:removing a portion of the high-pressure liquid stream prior to the first series;flowing the portion through a second plurality of liquid turbines coupled in a second series, wherein, after a first turbine in the series, an inlet of each liquid turbine is coupled to an outlet of a proceeding liquid turbine; and wherein the second series is in parallel with the first series; andgenerating electricity from the second series by removing energy from the portion of the ...

Modular screw apparatus and method

An orthopedic instrument comprises a shell configured to be inserted into a cup-shaped site, a liner configured to be received within a cavity of the shell, wherein the liner has an aperture and a mating feature adjacent to the aperture, and a modular screw configured to be received within the aperture of the liner. The modular screw can include a first component that is positionable adjacent to a first side of the mating feature and a second component that is positionable adjacent to a second side of the mating feature. When assembled, the modular screw can be configured to rotate relative to the liner.

BIFUNCTIONAL ELECTRODE DESIGN AND METHOD OF FORMING SAME

A method for making a doped carbon bifunctional electrode capable of facilitating the oxygen reduction reaction and the oxygen evolution reaction that is not susceptible to performance degradation when operated bi-functionally for oxygen reduction and evolution. 1. A bifunctional electrode comprising;an electrically conductive, gas permeable electrode support; andan electrically conductive oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution catalyst comprising nitrogen-doped carbon wherein nitrogen is present at 0.1 to 10 mole %.2. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode support is a fibrous material.3. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode support is fibrous carbon.4. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode support is a metallic mesh.5. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode support further comprises a hydrophobic material.6. The electrode according to claim 5 , wherein the hydrophobic material is polytetrafluoroethylene.7. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode support further comprises a plurality of electrode support pores having a diameter of from about 1 micron to about 500 microns.8. The electrode according to claim 7 , wherein a plurality of the electrode support pores are at least partially hydrophobic.9. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the nitrogen-doped carbon further comprises phosphorous.10. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the catalyst further comprises iron.11. The electrode according to claim 1 , wherein the catalyst further comprises a plurality of catalyst pores having a diameter equal to or less than about 1 micron.12. The electrode according to claim 11 , wherein the plurality of catalyst pores are at least partially hydrophilic.13. A process for forming a bifunctional electrode claim 11 , comprising the steps of;a) mixing a catalyst precursor comprising a metal and high surface area support medium;b) pyrolyzing the catalyst precursor in ...

Systems And Methods For Using Multiple Cryogenic Hydraulic Turbines

There is provided a system and method for producing liquefied natural gas (LNG). An exemplary method includes flowing a high-pressure stream of LNG through a first series of liquid turbines. The exemplary method also includes generating electricity by reducing the pressure of the high-pressure stream of LNG to form a low-pressure stream of LNG. The exemplary method additionally includes bypassing any one the liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity from the first series. 1. A method for generating electricity from liquid turbines , comprising:{'sup': 'st', 'flowing a high-pressure liquid stream through a first plurality of n liquid turbines coupled in a first series, wherein, after a first turbine in the series, an inlet of each of the second through the n-1liquid turbines is coupled to an outlet of a proceeding liquid turbine;'}generating electricity from the first series by removing energy from the high-pressure liquid stream to form a low-pressure liquid stream;bypassing any one of the first plurality of liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity with the remaining turbines of the first series; andoperating the first plurality of liquid turbines in the first series that are not bypassed to maintain a pressure and flow rate of the low-pressure liquid stream.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:maintaining the total electrical output from the first series as a constant value when a liquid turbine is bypassed.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:maintaining the temperature of the low-pressure liquid stream from the first series when a liquid turbine is bypassed.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:removing a portion of the high-pressure liquid stream prior to the first series;{'sup': 'st', 'flowing the portion through a second plurality of n liquid turbines coupled in a second series, wherein, after a first turbine in the series, an inlet of each of the second through the n- ...

LIQUID FUEL BATTERY

A liquid fuel battery is described, having a vented case, an internal fuel chamber, and a plurality of substantially planar vertically stacked battery elements having separated fuel-sides and air sides. Such sides are separated by a series of anodic and cathodic seals. In one embodiment, a cathode contains doped carbon nanofibers and may be treated with polytetrafluoroethylene or another hydrophobic material. An anode current collector and/or cathode current collector may contain perforated metal, including metal mesh. Battery elements may be U-shaped to maximize the efficiency of the air-fuel interaction. The cathode is active for oxygen reduction and inactive for fuel oxidation. 110. A liquid fuel battery () comprising:{'b': 100', '102', '120', '104', '102', '120, 'a case () having at least one wall () defining an interior volume (), and reversibly closeable vents () in the wall () placing at least a portion of the interior volume () in reversible fluid communication with an external atmosphere;'}{'b': 130', '132', '120', '400', '402', '404', '406, 'a refillable fuel chamber () and a fuel port () at least partially within the interior volume () in fluid communication with at least one of a plurality of substantially planar vertically stacked battery elements () having at least one peripheral edge () having a fuel-side section () and an air-side section ();'}{'b': 400', '420', '422', '130', '404', '406', '424', '430', '130', '404', '406', '424', '440', '450', '406', '460', '462', '406', '130', '404', '464, 'the battery elements () comprising at least an anode collector assembly () having a anode current collector () in fluid communication with the fuel chamber () on the fuel-side section () and sealed from an ambient atmosphere on the air-side section () by an anodic air-side seal (), an anode () in fluid communication with the fuel chamber () on the fuel-side section () and sealed from an ambient atmosphere on the air-side section () by an anodic air-side seal (), ...

MULTICHANNEL CONTROLLER FOR TARGET SHOOTING RANGE

An aspect of the disclosure relates to a multichannel controller for controlling a target in a target system. In one embodiment, a multichannel controller is configured to control a target system and includes a user input interface that receives a user input for the multichannel controller, wherein the user input is a command to control one or more targets in the target system and a processor that generates the command to send to the one or more targets in the target system and a command translation unit that relays the command to the one or more targets, wherein the command comprises a motion sequence.

THERMALLY BROKEN TRUSS

A thermally broken truss () for a cage of a structural building panel, comprising: first and second elongate outer support members (); first and second elongate intermediate support members () interposed between the first and second outer support members (); at least one first connecting member () interconnecting the first outer support member () and the first intermediate support member (); at least one second connecting member () interconnecting the second outer support member () and the second intermediate support member (); and a thermally insulative fastener () which fastens the first and second intermediate support members () together in spaced apart relationship, thereby providing a thermal break between the first and second outer support members (). A thermally broken structural building panel () is also provided. 1. A thermally broken truss for a cage of a structural building panel , comprising:first and second elongate outer support members;first and second elongate intermediate support members interposed between the first and second outer support members;at least one first connecting member interconnecting the first outer support member and the first intermediate support member;at least one second connecting member interconnecting the second outer support member and the second intermediate support member; anda thermally insulative fastener which fastens the first and second intermediate support members together in spaced apart relationship,thereby providing a thermal break between the first and second elongate outer support members.2. A thermally broken truss as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the thermally insulative fastener is a sheath in which the first and second intermediate support members are received.3. A thermally broken truss as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising at least one reinforcement element which buttresses the thermally insulative fastener and is held in a spaced apart relationship from the first and second intermediate support ...

Electrochemical cell and method of using same

A novel electrochemical cell is disclosed in multiple embodiments. The instant invention relates to an electrochemical cell design. In one embodiment, the cell design can electrolyze water into pressurized hydrogen using low-cost materials. In another embodiment, the cell design can convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. In another embodiment, the cell design can electrolyze water into hydrogen and oxygen for storage, then later convert the stored hydrogen and oxygen back into electricity and water. In some embodiments, the cell operates with a wide internal pressure differential.

Multichannel controller

A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer executable instructions that, when executed, cause a computing device to execute operations comprising transitioning a displayed user interface presented on a display of the computing device from a first control mode for controlling a moveable device, to a second control mode for controlling the moveable device is presented. The user interface comprises a control mode selector and a functionality limitation setting mechanism. The control mode selector is configured to display a plurality of control mode selector icons, each corresponding to one of a plurality of control modes. The plurality of control mode selector icons includes a first control mode selector icon, corresponding to the first control mode, and a second control mode selector icon, corresponding to the second control mode. The control mode selector is configured to receive a user input selection of the second control mode selector icon. The control mode selector is configured to display the second control mode by displaying a user-controllable icon corresponding to the second control mode in a main portion of the user interface. The functionality limitation setting mechanism is configured to receive a user input selection of a functionality limitation applied to the second control mode. The user input is received through a touch screen interface of the computing device. The functionality limitation comprises a position lock function that is configured to, when actuated, lock a position of the controlled moveable device with respect to a selected axis of motion.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A method for displaying a graphical representation of a classification of a set of patent applications into a plurality of categories according to an attribute includes receiving, by a processor, a request to generate the graphical representation of the classification of the set of patent applications into the plurality of categories according to the attribute. The method further includes, in response to receiving the request, automatically displaying the graphical representation of the classification of the set of patent applications into the plurality of categories according to the attribute on a display device. The graphical representation includes a plurality of patent document icons. Each of the plurality of patent document icons corresponds to one of the set of patent applications. Each of the plurality of patent document icons graphically represents that the patent application associated with the patent document icon is classified in a category of the plurality of categories. 1. A computer implemented method for displaying a graphical representation of a classification of a set of patent applications into a plurality of categories according to an attribute , the method comprising:receiving, by a processor, a request to generate the graphical representation of the classification of the set of patent applications into the plurality of categories according to the attribute; andin response to receiving the request to generate the graphical representation, automatically displaying the graphical representation of the classification of the set of patent applications into the plurality of categories according to the attribute on a display device, wherein the graphical representation includes a plurality of patent document icons, wherein each of the plurality of patent document icons corresponds to one of the set of patent applications, wherein each of the plurality of patent document icons graphically represents that the patent application associated with the patent ...

MULTICHANNEL CONTROLLER

Multichannel device controllers are disclosed. In one embodiment, a multichannel device controller includes a plurality of user selectable control modes for controlling a multichannel device and a plurality of user configurable settings for adjusting parameters associated with the plurality of user selectable control modes. A touchscreen displays a user interface corresponding to a selected one of plurality of user selectable control modes and receives user input indicative of a command to send to the multichannel device. A processor generates the command to send to the multichannel device based at least in part on the user input and the plurality of user configurable settings. 1. A user interface on a computing device for controlling a pan/tilt device , the user interface comprising:a control mode selector that receives a user input that is a selection of one of a plurality of different user interface mechanisms for selecting a direction of movement of the pan/tilt device; anda functionality limitation setting mechanism that receives a user input that is a selection of a functionality limitation that is applied to the selected direction of movement so as to limit the functionally the way in which the pan/tilt device is to be moved in the selected direction of movement, wherein a user indicates a speed sensitivity that applies to the indicated direction of movement of the pan/tilt device.2. The user interface of claim 1 , and further wherein the user interface is accessed on a touch screen interface of the computing device.3. The user interface of claim 1 , wherein the selected control mode comprises a touchpad.4. The user interface of claim 1 , wherein the selected control mode is a trackball.5. The user interface of claim 1 , wherein the selected control mode comprises a joystick.6. The user interface of claim 1 , wherein the functionality limitation setting mechanism further comprises a speed sensitivity setting mechanism.7. The user interface of claim 1 , ...

Hydrogen-Selective Porous Composite

Provided are a composition including a hydrogen-selective porous composite, a hydrogen gas sensor device including the hydrogen-selective porous composite, a kit for detecting hydrogen including the hydrogen gas sensor device, and a method for detecting hydrogen including contacting a hydrogen-comprising gas to the hydrogen selective porous composite. The method may include, for example: providing a hydrogen-comprising gas; providing a hydrogen-selective porous composite, the hydrogen-selective porous composite comprising cerium oxide; contacting the hydrogen-comprising gas to the hydrogen-selective porous composite; and selectively detecting hydrogen in the hydrogen-comprising gas according to a decrease in an electrical resistance of the hydrogen-selective porous composite.

METHOD FOR PRODUCING BN-BASED NANOPARTICLES AND PRODUCTS THEREFROM

A method of forming boron nitride nanoparticles. A plurality of precursor molecules comprising boron, nitrogen and hydrogen may be decomposed in a first heating zone to form a plurality of gaseous molecules that contain bonded boron and nitrogen, followed by heating to a second, higher temperature thereby causing the gaseous molecules to react and nucleate to form a plurality of boron nitride nanoparticles. Depending on processing temperatures, the boron nitride nanoparticles may include amorphous, crystalline, and spherical forms, or combinations thereof. Precursor molecules may include ammonia borane, borazine, cycloborazanes, polyaminoborane, polyiminoborane, and mixtures thereof. The boron nitride nanoparticles may be incorporated into a variety of dispersions, composites, and coatings; and in some embodiments, may be a component of a propellant. 1. A method of forming a spherical boron nitride nanoparticle dispersion comprising the steps of:a) providing a predetermined quantity of spherical boron nitride nanoparticles;b) mixing the boron nitride nanoparticles with a liquid to form a dispersion in the liquid; andc) agitating the dispersion for a predetermined amount of time.2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of providing a dispersant to the dispersion.3. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of providing a binder to the dispersion.4. A method of forming a boron nitride solid composite claim 1 , comprising the steps of:a) providing a predetermined quantity of a boron nitride nanoparticle dispersion in a liquid;b) mixing the dispersion with a predetermined quantity of a compositing material;c) allowing the dispersion to fully permeate the compositing material; andd) removing at least a portion of the liquid to form a composite.5. The method according to claim 4 , wherein the step of mixing the dispersion with a predetermined quantity of a compositing material further comprises the step of mixing the dispersion ...

Systems and Methods for Using Multiple Cryogenic Hydraulic Turbines

There is provided a system and method for producing liquefied natural gas (LNG). An exemplary method includes flowing a high-pressure stream of LNG through a first series of liquid turbines. The exemplary method also includes generating electricity by reducing the pressure of the high-pressure stream of LNG to form a low-pressure stream of LNG. The exemplary method additionally includes bypassing any one the liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity from the first series. 1. A method for generating electricity from liquid turbines , comprising:{'b': '1', 'in a normal mode, flowing a high-pressure liquid stream through a first plurality of n liquid turbines coupled in a first series, wherein, after a first turbine in the series, an inlet of each of a second through an n- liquid turbine is coupled to an outlet of a preceding liquid turbine;'}generating electricity from the first series by removing energy from the high-pressure liquid stream to form a low-pressure liquid stream; andbypassing any one of the first plurality of liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity with the remaining turbines of the first series.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:maintaining a total electrical output from the first series as a constant value when a liquid turbine is bypassed.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:operating the first plurality of liquid turbines in the first series that are not bypassed to maintain a pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the low-pressure liquid stream from the first series to be the same as a pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the low-pressure liquid stream when operating in the normal mode.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:removing a portion of the high-pressure liquid stream prior to the first series;{'b': '1', 'flowing the portion through a second plurality of n liquid turbines coupled in a second series, wherein, after a first turbine in the ...

CHROMIUM-FREE WATER-GAS SHIFT CATALYST AND PROCESS FOR MAKING THE SAME

A chromium-free water-gas shift catalyst. In contrast to industry standard water-gas catalysts including chromium, a chromium-free water-gas shift catalyst is prepared using iron, boron, copper, aluminum and mixtures thereof. The improved catalyst provides enhanced thermal stability and avoidance of potentially dangerous chromium. 1. A chromium-free water-gas catalyst comprising:iron, andboron.2. The catalyst according to claim 1 , further comprising aluminum.3. The catalyst according to claim 1 , further comprising copper.4. The catalyst according to claim 2 , further comprising copper.5. The catalyst according to claim 1 , comprising a surface area of at least 30 mg.6. The catalyst according to claim 1 , comprising a surface area of at least 60 mg.7. The catalyst according to claim 1 , comprising a surface area of at least 90 mg.8. The catalyst according to claim 1 , comprising a surface area of at least 120 mg.9. The catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the catalyst has a particle surface composition by mole that is greater than 0.5% boron and less than 3.0% boron.10. The catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the catalyst has a total composition by mass of greater than 0.001% boron and less than or equal to 2% boron.11. The catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the catalyst has a particle surface composition by mole that is greater than 0.5% boron and less than 2% boron.12. The catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the catalyst has a total composition of greater than 0.01% boron and less than or equal to 0.5% boron.13. The catalyst according to claim 1 , wherein the iron further comprises a plurality of iron oxides.14. A chromium-free water-gas catalyst comprising:boron, andcopper.15. The catalyst according to claim 14 , further comprising aluminum.16. The catalyst according to claim 14 , further comprising iron.17. A chromium-free water-gas shift catalyst claim 14 , comprising:iron;boron;aluminum; andcopper.18. A process for producing a catalyst having ...

Spacer mold for orthopedic implants

A mold for forming a prosthesis is disclosed. The mold can include a stem portion, a head portion, and a securement assembly. The stem portion and the head portion can be provided in a kit having a variety of different interior dimensions so that a user can select or customize a mold cavity size based on the dimensions of a particular implant site of a patient. While a set of stem portions and head portions can have interior dimensions of varying sizes, each of the stem portions and each of the head portions can have the same or similar exterior dimensions for attachment using a common securement structure. Related methods are also disclosed.

Optically Heated and Optically Measured Fouling Sensor

An optical fouling sensor includes optical heating and optical temperature measurement of a sensor. The optical signals can interact with the sensor either through optical fibers or free space optical signals or any combination of the two. Using a heat transfer equation allows determination of the amount of fouling on a sensor, from the optical measurements.

Surgical bone rasp having flattened medial teeth

A surgical bone rasp includes a body having posterior, anterior, medial, and lateral surfaces. The medial surface includes a proximal curved portion shaped to extend substantially along a concave medial curve. The proximal curved portion includes a plurality of teeth. Each tooth in the plurality includes a tooth gullet wall, a tooth undercut, and a tooth land between the proximal and tooth undercuts. The tooth lands can be generally flat and can extend along the concave medial curve The tooth gullet walls can be parallel to one another and can be angled to extend away from the body between a distal direction and a medial direction. The tooth undercuts can be parallel to one another, can be angled to extend away from the body in a medial direction, and can be equally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis.

Electrochemical Cell and Method of Using Same

A novel electrochemical cell is disclosed in multiple embodiments. The instant invention relates to an electrochemical cell design. In one embodiment, the cell design can electrolyze water into pressurized hydrogen using low-cost materials. In another embodiment, the cell design can convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. In another embodiment, the cell design can electrolyze water into hydrogen and oxygen for storage, then later convert the stored hydrogen and oxygen back into electricity and water. 110. An electrochemical cell () comprising:{'b': 350', '750', '400', '500', '500', '600', '400', '600', '350', '750', '550', '400', '600, 'at least one electrode (, ) substantially free of liquid water and in electrochemical contact with an electrolyte layer (, )(, ), further comprising at least one gas impermeable anion-conducting membrane (, ) having a first side and a second side, in electrochemical contact with the electrode (, ) on the first side, and in electrochemical contact with a porous non-electrode layer () permeated with aqueous liquid on the second side of the membrane (, ).'}2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the aqueous liquid is a liquid electrolyte having a pH equal to or greater than 7.0.3400500500600400600550400600550. The device according to claim 1 , where the electrolyte layer ( claim 1 , )( claim 1 , ) further comprises a second gas-impermeable membrane ( claim 1 , ) claim 1 , and the porous non-electrode layer () has an opposing first side and a second side claim 1 , wherein each membrane ( claim 1 , ) is located on one of the opposing sides of the porous non-electrode layer () that is permeated by a high pH aqueous liquid.4350750350750. The device according to further comprising a second electrode ( claim 1 , ) wherein the second electrode ( claim 1 , ) is equal to or more than 50% filled with liquid electrolyte.5350750. The device according to wherein the second electrode ( claim 4 , ) is an anode.6350750. The device according ...

ENERGY STORAGE MATERIAL AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME

The instant invention includes a spherical porous secondary silicon-based particle and methods for producing the same. The spherical porous secondary silicon-based particle is comprised of agglomerated primary silicon-based nanoparticles. The secondary particle comprises a carbon coating that reduces the effective exposed surface area of the primary particles to the electrolyte, thus improving first cycle efficiency. The secondary particle further comprises porous regions that enable the silicon nanoparticles to expand during lithiation. Advantages include ease of castability with micron-sized spherical particles, ease of mixing spherical particles, ease of flow for spherical particles in various processing steps, and ease with obtaining higher loading, which translates to higher areal capacity and overall energy density of the cell. A readily scalable process for producing the particles using low-cost materials and low-cost processing methods is disclosed. 2. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the internal void space further comprises 10% to 90% by volume of the particle.3. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the particle further comprises 2% to 90% carbon by mass.4. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the internal void space further comprises 30% to 70% by volume of the particle.5. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the spherical particle has a diameter of between and including 5 to 50 microns.6. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the primary SiOnanoparticles have a diameter of between and including 10 to 1000 nanometers.7. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the primary SiOnanoparticles have internal porosity.8. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the primary SiOnanoparticles are a combination of both silicon metal and silicon oxide phases.9. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the particle further comprises 10% to 50% carbon by mass.10. The particle according to claim 1 , wherein the elemental ...

Multi-Compressor String With Multiple Variable Speed Fluid Drives

Starter arrangement for high power rotating equipment strings with multiple compressors driven by a single turbine or motor includes multiple variable fluid drive torque converters (CSTCs) to start the compressors in a pressurized start. The string can use a single CSTC for each compressor or a single CSTC for more than one compressor with at least two CSTCs for a given string. The starting procedure is sequential. After the turbine or motor is started and brought up to speed, successive CSTCs are operated from zero to lock-up speed sequentially to start each compressor or group of compressors in turn. In order to cool the working fluid of the CSTCs, a single heat exchanger is provided and the working fluid of each CSTC in turn is circulated through the heat exchanger as they are sequentially started. At lock-up speed, the CSTC is locked up, the working fluid is drained, and the working fluid of the active CSTC is isolated from the heat exchanger and the next succeeding CSTC in the start sequence is in turn, filled with the working fluid and connected to the heat exchanger. At full start, with all compressors operating at full speed, no working fluid is present in the CSTCs, and no working fluid is circulated through the heat exchangers from the locked-up CSTCs. A single heat exchanger may also be used for multiple strings, each having multiple CSTCs for multiple compressors. The starter arrangement is useful in high compressor load strings for LNG refrigeration service.

Approaches for preparing and delivering bulk data to clients

Approaches are described for a client (e.g., an application executing on a computing device) requiring a particular storage format to provide information describing its storage format to a service, such as a multi-tenant computing environment. The service contains data that the client desires to acquire, but in various embodiments, the data on the service is in a different storage format than the format required by the client. The service receives the information describing the storage format and processes the data accordingly, and then provides the processed data to the client in the format required by the client.

Electrochemical cell and method of using same

Packaging

A reconfigurable packaging carton (12) has a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections (14) for receiving product (92). Each carton section is connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge. Each carton section (14) has at least one aperture at one end and may be open a both ends to define a sleeve into which a product piece is directly received. The carton sections (14) can be of different shapes. The carton (12) is formed from a blank of foldable material and several blanks for forming the carton are also disclosed.

Dual end gear fluid drive starter

A compressor starting torque converter method and apparatus for high power rotating equipment strings includes a compressor starting torque converter (CSTC) (16) and gearing to make the input and output speed conform to the speed and power requirements of the at least one compressor (4) at the end of the string. The string also includes a prime mover (10), either a motor or gas turbine with a starter motor. The CSTC is driven by a prime mover that has been geared down (via 18) to an appropriate speed for efficient power transfer, followed by a gear increasing unit (20) to allow the output of the CSTC to be increased to conform to the necessary requirements of a high speed compressor. The gearing can be two separate units with their own housings, or incorporated in a single housing with the CSTC. The CSTC may be a CSTC used in pressurized starts high compressor load strings for LNG refrigeration service.

Multi-compressor string with multiple variable speed fluid drives

Starter arrangement for high power rotating equipment strings with multiple compressors driven by a single turbine or motor includes multiple variable fluid drive torque converters (CSTCs) to start the compressors in a pressurized start. The string can use a single CST for each compressor or a single CSTC for more than one compressor with at least two CSTCs for a given string. The starting procedure is sequential. After the turbine or motor is started and brought up to speed, successive CSTCs are operated from zero to lock-up speed sequentially to start each compressor or group of compressors in turn. In order to cool the working fluid of the CSTCs, a single heat exchanger is provided and the working fluid of each CSTC in turn is circulated through the heat exchanger as they are sequentially started. The starter arrangement is useful in high compressor load strings for LNG refrigeration service.

Systems and methods for using multiple cryogenic hydraulic turbines

There is provided a system and method for producing liquefied natural gas (LNG). An exemplary method includes flowing a high-pressure stream of LNG through a first series of liquid turbines. The exemplary method also includes generating electricity by reducing the pressure of the high-pressure stream of LNG to form a low-pressure stream of LNG. The exemplary method additionally includes bypassing any one the liquid turbines that has a failure while continuing to produce electricity from the first series.

Multicomponent ice confection product

Multicomponent ice confection product. The main part of its outer surface being regularly curved and the surface separating two components (1,2) being at least mainly concentric with respect to said outer surface; the dimensions and the electrical properties being such that on exposure to microwave radiation from a commercial household or catering heater the centre will be heated in excess of 25 DEG C while a more outwardly positioned layer is still frozen.

Suspended platform

A suspended platform, for example for use as an access/working platform in performing maintenance work on the attachment of conductors and insulators to an electricity transmission tower or pylon, comprises a main portion (20) and an extension portion (21) hingedly connected thereto so as to pivot to a closed position, which may be generally at right angles to the main portion or may involve pivoting the extension portion through an angle greater than 90° so that it lies substantially within the structure of the main portion. This latter configuration further diminishes the space taken up by the platform during hoisting to position and ensures that all parts of the platform are safely spaced from the conductors under all conditions, including under high winds which might tend to sway the platform towards the conductors.

Frozen sweet product

Multicomponent ice confection product

Multicomponent ice confection product. The main part of its outer surface being regularly curved and the surface separating two components (1,2) being at least mainly concentric with respect to said outer surface; the dimensions and the electrical properties being such that on exposure to microwave radiation from a commercial household or catering heater the centre will be heated in excess of 25 DEG C while a more outwardly positioned layer is still frozen.

Hydrogen sensitive composite material, hydrogen gas sensor, and sensor for detecting hydrogen and other gases with improved baseline resistance

A hydrogen sensitive composite sensing material based on cerium oxide with or without additives to enhance sensitivity to hydrogen, reduce cross-sensitivities to interfering gases, or lower the operating temperature of the sensor, and a device incorporating these hydrogen sensitive composite materials including a support, electrodes applied to the support, and a coating of hydrogen sensitive composite material applied over the electroded surface. The sensor may have in integral heater. The sensor may have a tubular geometry with the heater being inserted within the tube. A gas sensor device may include a support, electrodes applied to the support, and a dual sensor element to cancel unwanted effects on baseline resistance such as those resulting from atmospheric temperature changes. The hydrogen sensitive composite material or other gas sensitive materials may be used in the dual element gas sensor device.

Ceramic H2S sensor

Eddy current testing system with scanning probe head having parallel and normal sensing coils

An eddy current testing system consists of a multi-sensor probe, a computer and a special expansion card and software for data collection and analysis. The probe incorporates an excitation coil, and sensor coils; at least one sensor coil is a lateral current-normal coil and at least one is a current perturbation coil.

Scaffolding system

A scaffolding system comprising a spaced pair of columns (40), each column being mounted on a transportable base so as to be pivotable between a generally horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation, and connecting means (41) attachable to each of the columns in the pair when vertical, to extend therebetween.

Multichannel controller for target shooting range

An aspect of the disclosure relates to a multichannel controller for controlling a target in a target system. In one embodiment, a multichannel controller is configured to control a target system and includes a user input interface that receives a user input for the multichannel controller, wherein the user input is a command to control one or more targets in the target system and a processor that generates the command to send to the one or more targets in the target system and a command translation unit that relays the command to the one or more targets, wherein the command comprises a motion sequence.

Hydrogen sensitive composite material, hydrogen gas sensor, and sensor for detecting hydrogen and other gases with improved baseline resistance

A hydrogen sensitive composite sensing material based on cerium oxide with or without additives to enhance sensitivity to hydrogen, reduce cross-sensitivities to interfering gases, or lower the operating temperature of the sensor, and a device incorporating these hydrogen sensitive composite materials including a support, electrodes applied to the support, and a coating of hydrogen sensitive composite material applied over the electroded surface. The sensor may have in integral heater. The sensor may have a tubular geometry with the heater being inserted within the tube. A gas sensor device may include a support, electrodes applied to the support, and a dual sensor element to cancel unwanted effects on baseline resistance such as those resulting from atmospheric temperature changes. The hydrogen sensitive composite material or other gas sensitive materials may be used in the dual element gas sensor device.

Multi-layer film and reclosable film package

A multi-layer film and a film package made from the film are described herein that provide resealing capabilities by utilizing a tacky layer within the multi-layer film. The multi-layer film can include an outer film portion including the embedded tacky layer and an inner film portion. An opening feature formed in the multi-layer film includes a flap configured to be manipulated by a user to create an opening through the multi-layer film. The inner film portion can include a release layer configured specifically to interact with the tacky layer to provide a desired separation peel force and resealing functionalities. The outer film portion can include an outer film layer disposed on an opposite side of the tacky layer from the release layer that is configured to permanently adhere to the tacky layer.

Packaging

A reconfigurable packaging carton (12) has a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections (14) for receiving product (92). Each carton section is connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge. Each carton section (14) has at least one aperture at one end and may be open a both ends to define a sleeve into which a product piece is directly received. The carton sections (14) can be of different shapes. The carton (12) is formed from a blank of foldable material and several blanks for forming the carton are also disclosed.

Dual end gear fluid drive starter

A compressor starting torque converter method and apparatus for high power rotating equipment strings includes a compressor starting torque converter (CSTC) (16) and gearing to make the input and output speed conform to the speed and power requirements of the at least one compressor (4) at the end of the string. The string also includes a prime mover (10), either a motor or gas turbine with a starter motor. The CSTC is driven by a prime mover that has been geared down (via 18) to an appropriate speed for efficient power transfer, followed by a gear increasing unit (20) to allow the output of the CSTC to be increased to conform to the necessary requirements of a high speed compressor. The gearing can be two separate units with their own housings, or incorporated in a single housing with the CSTC. The CSTC may be a CSTC used in pressurized starts high compressor load strings for LNG refrigeration service.

Hydrate inhibition

Formation of gas hydrate e.g. crystalline hydrates from natural gas, is inhibited or retarded by addition to a medium susceptible thereto of an additive, which is at least one of (i) a hydrophilic colloid, (ii) a cyclic compound with at least -(C=O)-O- group in a ring and (iii) an amino carbohydrate and preferably at least one of (iv) an amino acid or derivative thereof, (v) an amino alcohol or derivative thereof, (vi) a glycol ether or derivative thereof, (vii) a hydroxyacid or derivative thereof, (viii) a corrosion inhibitor and (ix) a polymer of an ethylenically unsaturated compound.

Multichannel controller

Multichannel device controllers are disclosed. In one embodiment, a multichannel device controller includes a plurality of user selectable control modes for controlling a multichannel device and a plurality of user configurable settings for adjusting parameters associated with the plurality of user selectable control modes. A touchscreen displays a user interface corresponding to a selected one of plurality of user selectable control modes and receives user input indicative of a command to send to the multichannel device. A processor generates the command to send to the multichannel device based at least in part on the user input and the plurality of user configurable settings.

Confection

An edible article, e.g. an ice lolly (1) having a temperature below -3 °C, at least part (3) of which is transparent and in a non-crystalline state. In preferred embodiments that part (3) is either in a non-solidified state at temperatures down to at least -5 °C or in a glassy state at temperatures between -5 °C and -20 °C.

Ceramic h2s sensor

A sensor capable of monitoring hydrogen sulfide in a hydrogen-containing background. The sensor comprises novel sulfur sensitive materials that may be deposited as a thin film or thick film in a chemi-resistor format. The novel sulfur sensitive materials may comprise a single component oxide material or a composite of two or more oxide materials. The sensors respond reversibly to H2S in a reducing gas environment, with a corresponding change in their electrical resistance that can be used to quantify the amount Of H2S present in the reducing gas.

Packaging

A reconfigurable packaging carton (12) has a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections (14) for receiving product (92). Each carton section is connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge. Each carton section (14) has at least one aperture at one end and may be open a both ends to define a sleeve into which a product piece is directly received. The carton sections (14) can be of different shapes. The carton (12) is formed from a blank of foldable material and several blanks for forming the carton are also disclosed.

Frozen confectionery

Frozen sweet

Frosne dessert- eller konfektprodukter med lav rom- tetthet, f.eks. iskonfekt, som har en varmeovergangs- temperatur i overkant av -18*C og spesielt i overkant av -13'C, for å forhindre eller redusere utilsiktet krymping og deformasjon.

POLYPHONIC CODING.

A polyphonic (e.g. stereo) audioconferencing system, in which input left and right channels are time-aligned by variable delay stages (10a, 10b), controlled by a delay calculator (9) (e.g. by deriving the maximum cross-correlation value), and then summed in an adder (2) and subtracted in subtracter (3) to form sum and difference signals. The sum signal is transmitted in relatively high quality; the difference signal is reconstructed at the decoder by prediction from the sum signal using an adaptive filter (5). The decoder adaptive filter (5) is configured either by received filter coefficients or, using backwards adaptation, from a received residual signal produced by a corresponding adaptive filter (4) in the coder, or both. Preferably, the adaptive filter (4) is a lattice filter, employing a gradient algorithm for coefficient update. The complexity of the adaptive filter (4) is reduced by pre-whitening, in the encoder, both the sum and difference signals using corresponding whitening filters (14a, 14b) derived from the sum channel.

CHAMP COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING A CATIONIC POLYMER AND A MIXTURE OF ANIONIC TENSIANS

La presente provee una composicion de champu acuosa que comprende, mezclados: (i) un primer tensioactivo anionico en donde la relacion entre los pesos moleculares de las partes polares (hidrofilas) y no polares (hidrofobas) de la molécula es menor que 1,5; (ii) Un segundo tensioactivo anionico en donde la relacion entre los pesos moleculares de las partes polares (hidrofilas) y no polares (hidrofobas) e la molécula es mayor que 1,5, y (iii) un polímero cationico que tiene un peso molecular de por lo menos 100.000 Dalton y una densidad de carga cationica de por lo menos 0,5 meq/g; en donde la relacion de pesos entre (i)Lii) oscila entre 3:1 y 1:3. Las composiciones de champu de acuerdo con la presente demuestran una viscosidad extensional reducida (es decir, son menos ôfibrosasö). También proveen el suministro de un nivel significativamente aumentado de acondicionamiento sin aumento significativo de la fibrosidad del producto. The present provides an aqueous shampoo composition comprising, mixed: (i) a first anionic surfactant wherein the ratio between the molecular weights of the polar (hydrophilic) and non-polar (hydrophobic) parts of the molecule is less than 1.5 ; (ii) A second anionic surfactant where the ratio between the molecular weights of the polar (hydrophilic) and non-polar (hydrophobic) parts of the molecule is greater than 1.5, and (iii) a cationic polymer having a molecular weight of at least 100,000 Daltons and a cationic charge density of at least 0.5 meq / g; where the ratio of weights between (i) Lii) ranges between 3: 1 and 1: 3. Shampoo compositions in accordance with the present demonstrate a reduced extensional viscosity (ie, they are less "fibrous"). They also provide the supply of a significantly increased level of conditioning without a significant increase in product fibrosity.

Dual end gear fluid drive starter

A compressor starting torque converter method and apparatus for high power rotating equipment strings includes a compressor starting torque converter (CSTC) (16) and gearing to make the input and output speed conform to the speed and power requirements of the at least one compressor (4) at the end of the string. The string also includes a prime mover (10), either a motor or gas turbine with a starter motor. The CSTC is driven by a prime mover that has been geared down (via 18) to an appropriate speed for efficient power transfer, followed by a gear increasing unit (20) to allow the output of the CSTC to be increased to conform to the necessary requirements of a high speed compressor. The gearing can be two separate units with their own housings, or incorporated in a single housing with the CSTC. The CSTC may be a CSTC used in pressurized starts high compressor load strings for LNG refrigeration service.

Multi-layer film and reclosable film package

A multi-layer film and a film package made from the film are described herein that provide resealing capabilities by utilizing a tacky layer within the multi-layer film. The multi-layer film can include an outer film portion including the embedded tacky layer and an inner film portion. An opening feature formed in the multi-layer film includes a flap configured to be manipulated by a user to create an opening through the multi-layer film. The inner film portion can include a release layer configured specifically to interact with the tacky layer to provide a desired separation peel force and resealing functionalities. The outer film portion can include an outer film layer disposed on an opposite side of the tacky layer from the release layer that is configured to permanently adhere to the tacky layer.

Carbon monoxide sensor and method of use

A sensor (20) and method of use for detection of low levels of carbon monoxide (CO) in gas mixtures. The approach is based on the change in an electrical property (for example: resistance) that occurs when carbon monoxide is selectively absorbed by film (36) of copper chloride (or other metal halides). The electrical property change occurs rapidly with both increasing and decreasing CO contents, varies with the amount of CO from the gas stream (10), and is insensitive to the presence of hydrogen. To make a sensor (20) using this approach, the metal halide film (36) will deposited onto an alumina substrate (26) with electrodes (34, 35). The sensor (20) may be maintained at the optimum temperature with a thick film platinum heater deposited onto the opposite face of the substrate (26). When the sensor (20) is operating at an appropriate (and constant) temperature, the magnitude of the electrical property measured between the interdigital electrodes (34, 35) will provide a measure of the carbon monoxide content of the gas.

and method for inspecting a generally cylindrical elongated flexible structure

A package having visual motion effects

The invention provides a package comprising a product housing (10), a coded image region (6) which encodes images, and decoder region (8) comprising a pattern of opaque and translucent regions wherein the coded image region and decoder region are movable relative to each other to selectively visualise decoded images during movement, and wherein the coded image region or the decoder region comprises a gripping portion (12) for direct manipulation of the movement by a user.

Chromium-free water-gas shift catalyst and process for making the same

A chromium-free water-gas shift catalyst. In contrast to industry standard water-gas catalysts including chromium, a chromium-free water-gas shift catalyst is prepared using iron, boron, copper, aluminum and mixtures thereof. The improved catalyst provides enhanced thermal stability and avoidance of potentially dangerous chromium. Various embodiment's of a chromium-free water-gas catalyst including iron and boron are disclosed, some of which include copper, or aluminum and copper. The boron may reside substantially at the surface of the catalyst. In another series of embodiment's, a chromium-free water-gas catalyst may include boron and copper, and these embodiment's may further include aluminum or iron.

Oxygen-fed fuel cell system and method of using same

A fuel cell system includes hydrogen and oxygen storage vessels, a fuel cell stack, an air feed, an oxygen feed creating an internal oxygen pressure, at least one cathode and at least one cathode exhaust. The system can alternate between the air feed and/or the oxygen feed to the cathode of the fuel cell with air operation at lower power draw conditions and oxygen operation at higher power draw conditions. Oxygen may be recirculated from the cathode exhaust at a rate higher than stoichiometric and internal oxygen pressure may rise to above 1.1 bar. An automated control system can recirculate oxygen after air is expelled from the fuel cell stack, and there may be a recirculation of cathode exhaust, particularly a recirculation of oxygen exhaust. The fuel cell may be configured having ports with removeable connections for refilling the hydrogen storage vessel and the oxygen storage vessel.

Kühlpumpenkavitationsschutzsystem

A package having visual motion effects

The invention provides a package comprising a product housing (10), a coded image region (6) which encodes images, and decoder region (8) comprising a pattern of opaque and translucent regions wherein the coded image region and decoder region are movable relative to each other to selectively visualise decoded images during movement, and wherein the coded image region or the decoder region comprises a gripping portion (12) for direct manipulation of the movement by a user.

Konfekt

Detecting failures in flexible multistrand steel structures

A flexible elongate generally cylindrical structure comprising at least one layer of steel ligaments near the outer longitudinally-extending surface, the steel ligaments extending at least partly along the length of the structure, such as a riser (10), may be inspected using an electromagnetic probe (40) incorporating an electromagnet core with pole faces (44) and an electromagnetic coil (46) to induce an alternating magnetic field, and at least two sensors (50) on each pole face (44) for sensing an alternating magnetic flux density. The inspection involves arranging the probe (40) adjacent to the outer longitudinally-extending surface of the structure (10), and inducing an alternating magnetic field less than saturation in the steel ligaments using the probe (40), and sensing the alternating magnetic flux density near the outer longitudinally extending surface of the structure (10). Measurements may be taken at a wide range of different frequencies. The probe (40) is scanned (62) over the surface, and the measurements are repeated at locations adjacent to different ligaments; from the flux density sensed by the sensing means (50) a parameter sensitive to stress in the ligaments can be determined, and from any variation of the said parameter between different ligaments any broken or over-stressed ligaments can be detected.

DETECTION OF ERRORS IN FLEXIBLE MIXED STEEL STRUCTURES

Detecting failures in flexible multistrand steel structures

A flexible elongate generally cylindrical structure comprising at least one layer of steel ligaments near the outer longitudinally-extending surface, the steel ligaments extending at least partly along the length of the structure, such as a riser (10), may be inspected using an electromagnetic probe (40) incorporating an electromagnet core with pole faces (44) and an electromagnetic coil (46) to induce an alternating magnetic field, and at least two sensors (50) on each pole face (44) for sensing an alternating magnetic flux density. The inspection involves arranging the probe (40) adjacent to the outer longitudinally-extending surface of the structure (10), and inducing an alternating magnetic field less than saturation in the steel ligaments using the probe (40), and sensing the alternating magnetic flux density near the outer longitudinally extending surface of the structure (10). Measurements may be taken at a wide range of different frequencies. The probe (40) is scanned (62) over the surface, and the measurements are repeated at locations adjacent to different ligaments; from the flux density sensed by the sensing means (50) a parameter sensitive to stress in the ligaments can be determined, and from any variation of the said parameter between different ligaments any broken or over-stressed ligaments can be detected.

Detecting failures in flexible multistrand steel structures

Silicon hydride nanocrystals as catalysts for proton production in water-organic liquid mixtures

Embodiments of the present methods may be used to produce energy in the form of an electrical current from water without the use of fossil fuel. Silicon hydride is very easy to make. This procedure in conjunction with an enzyme to produce hydrogen gas for fuel cells and other small devices. In fuel cells the production of protons may be bypassed, and an oxidant such as permanganate or oxygen from air may be used to drive the fuel cells. In such an embodiment, an intermediate reaction may not be needed to produce protons. In one embodiment, membrane-less laminar flow fuel cells with an external grid for oxygen supply from the air may be used.

Carbon monoxide sensor and method of use

Carbon monoxide sensor and method of use

A sensor (20) and method of use for detection of low levels of carbon monoxide (CO) in gas mixtures. The approach is based on the change in an electrical property (for example: resistance) that occurs when carbon monoxide is selectively absorbed by film (36) of copper chloride (or other metal halides). The electrical property change occurs rapidly with both increasing and decreasing CO contents, varies with the amount of CO from the gas stream (10), and is insensitive to the presence of hydrogen. To make a sensor (20) using this approach, the metal halide film (36) will deposited onto an alumina substrate (26) with electrodes (34, 35). The sensor (20) may be maintained at the optimum temperature with a thick film platinum heater deposited onto the opposite face of the substrate (26). When the sensor (20) is operating at an appropriate (and constant) temperature, the magnitude of the electrical property measured between the interdigital electrodes (34, 35) will provide a measure of the carbon monoxide content of the gas.

Frosset konfektprodukt

Rolig frosset matvareprodukt som har en fin dendrittisk krystallstruktur som har en dendritt-tykkelse som ikke overstiger 100 nm.

Knitting machine

Dial knitting machine

Knitting machine

Multi-layer film and reclosable film package

A multi-layer film and a film package made from the film are described herein that provide resealing capabilities by utilizing a tacky layer within the multi-layer film. The multi-layer film can include an outer film portion including the embedded tacky layer and an inner film portion. An opening feature formed in the multi-layer film includes a flap configured to be manipulated by a user to create an opening through the multi-layer film. The inner film portion can include a release layer configured specifically to interact with the tacky layer to provide a desired separation peel force and resealing functionalities. The outer film portion can include an outer film layer disposed on an opposite side of the tacky layer from the release layer that is configured to permanently adhere to the tacky layer.

Carbon monoxide sensor and method of use

Surgical bone rasp having flattened medial teeth

A surgical bone rasp includes a body having posterior, anterior, medial, and lateral surfaces. The medial surface includes a proximal curved portion shaped to extend substantially along a concave medial curve. The proximal curved portion includes a plurality of teeth. Each tooth in the plurality includes a tooth gullet wall, a tooth undercut, and a tooth land between the proximal and tooth undercuts. The tooth lands can be generally flat and can extend along the concave medial curve. The tooth gullet walls can be parallel to one another and can be angled to extend away from the body between a distal direction and a medial direction. The tooth undercuts can be parallel to one another, can be angled to extend away from the body in a medial direction, and can be equally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis.

Dial knitting-machine.

Polyphonische kodierung.

Tiefkühldessert

Improvement in Circular Knitting Machines.

25,239. Stafford, W., and Holt, R. C. Nov. 17. Circular knitting-machines.-Relates to striping- mechanism. An endless pattern band H, toothed at one edge and having a series of notches on the other, is carried by a pair of pulleys adjustable on a rod k. The band is driven by a pinion G on a shaft driven by gearing from the needle cylinder. The edge of the lower span of the endless band acts on the butts of the needles, and raises some of them into range of a cam which causes them to knit at a certain yarn feeder. When a notch comes opposite a needle, it is not raised, and consequently does not knit. The band may be changed to form a different pattern.

Spacer mold for orthopedic implants

A mold for forming a prosthesis is disclosed. The mold can include a stem portion, a head portion, and a securement assembly. The stem portion and the head portion can be provided in a kit having a variety of different interior dimensions so that a user can select or customize a mold cavity size based on the dimensions of a particular implant site of a patient. While a set of stem portions and head portions can have interior dimensions of varying sizes, each of the stem portions and each of the head portions can have the same or similar exterior dimensions for attachment using a common securement structure. Related methods are also disclosed.

Camera motion control system with variable autonomy

Variable autonomy level control systems are provided. A control system illustratively include an analog communications support component, a digital communications support component, a processing component, and a motor controller. The processing component synthesizes inputs received from the analog and the digital communications support components to generate an output. The motor controller utilizes the output from the processing component to generate a control signal for a motor. In certain embodiments, the input from the digital communications support component includes an indication of an autonomy level, and the processing component synthesizes the inputs by applying the autonomy level to the input received from the analog communications support component.