1756 results about "Absorbed energy" patented technology

A semiconductor nanocrystal compound is described capable of linking to an affinity molecule. The compound comprises (1) a semiconductor nanocrystal capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation and / or absorbing energy, and / or scattering or diffracting electromagnetic radiation-when excited by an electromagnetic radiation source or a particle beam; and (2) at least one linking agent, having a first portion linked to the semiconductor nanocrystal and a second portion capable of linking to an affity molecule. The compound is linked to an affinity molecule to form a semiconductor nanocrystal probe capable of bonding with a detectable substance. Subsequent exposure to excitation energy will excite the semiconductor nanocrystal in he probe, causing the emission of electromagnetic radiation. Further described are processes for respectively: making the semiconductor nanocrystal compound; making the semiconductor nanocrystal probe; and using the probe to determine the presence of a detectable substance in a material.

A protective helmet (1) has an outer shell (2) and an inner shell (3), the outer shell being displaceable relative to the inner shell by means of at last one sliding layer (4) arranged between the the outer shell and the inner shell. In the edge region of the helmet, the outer shell and the inner shell are interconnected by means of members (5), for absorbing energy on displacement of the outer shell on the inner shell. In this way, impact energy from an oblique impact against the helmet can be absorbed during displacement between the outer shell and the inner shell.

A semiconductor nanocrystal compound is described capable of linking to an affinity molecule. The compound comprises (1) a semiconductor nanocrystal capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation and / or absorbing energy, and / or scattering or diffracting electromagnetic radiation—when excited by an electromagnetic radiation source or a particle beam; and (2) at least one linking agent, having a first portion linked to the semiconductor nanocrystal and a second portion capable of linking to an affinity molecule. The compound is linked to an affinity molecule to form a semiconductor nanocrystal probe capable of bonding with a detectable substance. Subsequent exposure to excitation energy will excite the semiconductor nanocrystal in the probe causing the emission of electromagnetic radiation. Further described are processes for respectively: making the luminescent semiconductor nanocrystal compound; making the semiconductor nanocrystal probe; and using the probe to determine the presence of a detectable substance in a material.

A composition, apparatus and method for use in a wellbore is described. In one aspect, a composition may include a shape-conforming material and nanoparticles sufficient to absorb a selected form of energy to heat the shape-conforming material to near or above a glass transition temperature. A method of deploying an apparatus using such a composition may include placing the apparatus at a suitable location in a wellbore and exposing the composition to the selected energy to deploy the apparatus in the wellbore.

A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones.

Methods and apparatus for detecting photoacoustic signals in fluid media are described. The present invention differs from conventional photoacoustic spectroscopy in that rather than accumulating the absorbed energy in the fluid of a sample cell, the absorbed energy is accumulated in an acoustic detector or sensitive element. In a preferred embodiment, the acoustic detector comprises piezoelectric crystal quartz. The quartz is preferably in the shape of a tuning fork.

The present invention discloses a sole unit for shoes, sandals, boots, and other articles of footwear. The sole unit comprises at least one spring unit having at least a top wall and a bottom wall that define an opening to allow the top and bottom walls to converge under force, absorbing energy on impact and releasing energy on rebound. Variations in the longitudinal profile, transverse profile, spring-wall thickness, and spring-wall shape permit control over spring force in response to compression. A spring unit may further comprise one or more dampeners to modify the energy-storing properties of the spring unit. A spring unit may further comprise one or more bumpers that come into contact at predetermined distances when compressing the spring unit, to further modify the dynamic response of the spring under a load.

An energy management control apparatus for a molding machine that includes a first electrically-driven prime mover configured to drive at least a first molding machine device, and a second electrically-driven prime mover configured to drive at least a second molding machine device, includes a common DC link configured to provide DC energy to the first electrically-driven prime mover and to the second electrically-driven prime mover. A slave axis is configured to supply and absorb energy from to / from the common DC link. A machine controller is configured to (i) communicate with the first electrically-driven prime mover, the second electrically-driven prime mover, the common DC link, and the slave axis, (ii) cause the slave axis to supply energy to the common DC link in response to input from at least one of the first electrically-driven prime mover and the second electrically-driven prime mover, and (iii) cause the slave axis to absorb energy from the common DC link in response to input from at least one of the first electrically-driven prime mover and the second electrically-driven prime mover.

An energy management system and device for use in an automotive frame, rail, or other structural component of an automotive vehicle. The frame or rail having a cavity or exposed surface capable of supporting at least one member. The member having an interior portion and an exterior portion with the interior portion being defined by at least one trigger or step change to the geometry of the inner portion to target and direct axial bending of the system. A reinforcing material, such as a polymer-based expandable material, is disposed along the exterior portion of a member prior to final assembly of the vehicle by the vehicle manufacturer. The system is activated as the vehicle undergoes the final vehicle assembly process and paint operation which activates and transforms the reinforcing material to expand, bond and structurally adhere the frame rail to mange, direct, and / or absorb energy in the event of an impact to the vehicle from an applied load or an external force.

Methods and apparatus for detecting photoacoustic signals in fluid media are described. The present invention differs from conventional photoacoustic spectroscopy in that rather than accumulating the absorbed energy in the fluid of a sample cell, the absorbed energy is accumulated in an acoustic detector or sensitive element. In a preferred embodiment, the acoustic detector comprises piezoelectric crystal quartz. The quartz is preferably in the shape of a tuning fork.

A method and apparatus for minimizing or eliminating the transmission of vibration away from, as well as induction of vibration into, a middle ear driving or sensing structure of an at least partially implantable hearing aid system. A vibration damping intermediary layer may be positioned between an originating structure and its housing, and / or between a housing and its mounting to the surrounding. The intermediary layer may be formed of a structure having elastic and damping characteristics. The intermediary layer may also have a number of fluid flow paths for absorbing energy and damping vibration.

Disclosed herein a prosthetic or orthotic device having a joint portion and a compliant transmission assembly in operational communication with the joint portion. The device restores the normal capabilities and natural dynamics of a healthy joint for common activities. The compliant transmission assembly includes a compliant element. The compliant transmission assembly absorbs energy when a torque is applied. between a prosthetic or orthotic device portion and another adjacent device portion or the adjacent limb segment, of the user. The compliant element of the invention absorbs energy during flexion of a joint for the dampening thereof and releases this energy during extension of the joint for assistance thereof. Also disclosed herein is an actuator assembly, a torque sensor and an actuator locking device as well as a method for determining the torque of such prosthetic and orthotic devices.

The invention comprises a composite material comprising a host material in which are incorporated semiconductor nanocrystals. The host material is light-transmissive and / or light-emissive and is electrical chargetransporting thus permitting electrical charge transport to the core of the nanocrystals. The semiconductor nanocrystals emit and / or absorb light in the near infrared spectral range. The nanocrystals cause the composite material to emit / absorb energy in the near infrared (NIR) spectral range, and / or to have a modified dielectric constant, compared to the host material. The invention further comprises electro-optical devices composed of this composite material and a method of producing them. Specifically described are light emitting diodes that emit light in the NIR and photodetectors that absorb light in the same region.

Disclosed herein a prosthetic or orthotic device having a joint portion and a compliant transmission assembly in operational communication with the joint portion. The device restores the normal capabilities and natural dynamics of a healthy joint for common activities. The compliant transmission assembly includes a compliant element. The compliant transmission assembly absorbs energy when a torque is applied between a prosthetic or orthotic device portion and another adjacent device portion or the adjacent limb segment of the user. The compliant element of the invention absorbs energy during flexion of a joint for the dampening thereof and releases this energy during extension of the joint for assistance thereof. Also disclosed herein is an actuator assembly, a torque sensor and an actuator locking device as well as a method for determining the torque of such prosthetic and orthotic devices.

A protective helmet includes a head cap, which surrounds and moves with a wearer's head, and an outer shell which surrounds the head cap. The outer shell is movable both radially and circumferentially relative to the head cap. An energy absorbing flexible liner is located between the head cap and the outer shell. The liner is attached to the outer shell and the head cap so that neither the head cap nor the head of the wearer is otherwise attached to the outer shell. The liner establishes a preset initial relative position and spacing between the head cap and the outer shell and compliantly absorbs energy imparted to the outer shell during a helmet impact to enable the outer shell to move relative to the head cap during the helmet impact and to be returned to the initial relative position with the head cap following the impact.

A composite material comprising a multitude of masses and fibers supported on a flexible substrate arranged in a manner to absorb energy from a ballistic projectile and thereby protect persons or property from ballistic injury or damage. An array of small, tough disc-like masses are suspended in a three dimensional cradle of high-tensile elastomeric fibers such that energy from an incoming ballistic projectile is first imparted to one or more masses and the motion of the masses are restrained by tensile strain of elastomeric fibers substantially in the direction of travel of the incoming projectile. The projectile is eventually decelerated to harmless velocity through a combination of transfer of momentum to the masses and the elastic and plastic tensile deformation of the fibers. One or more layers of the composite material can be assembled to form body protective armor (“bullet-proof vest”) or property protective armor, the number and characteristics of the layers being adjusted according to the specific ballistic threat anticipated.

A new design, applicable to most shoe types, having isolated, compressible rubber cushions as the only contact points with the ground. These cushions, usually 4 in number, are attached at only key points to an overlying flexible skeleton, made of a durable but bendable support structure. The ‘skeleton’ in turn is affixed to an overlying compressible ‘mattress’. This entire structure, consisting of compressible mattress, skeleton, and cushions duplicates the arch of the foot. Under the force of walking, running, etc. the rubber cushions will compress to absorb the force of the step. The overlying skeleton will also absorb energy by bowing convex downward at the toes, middle, and heel of the foot. Similarly the air space of the overlying mattress will also be compressed, absorbing pressure. Upon lifting the foot, the opposite actions will occur, releasing energy in an upward and forward direction, and thereby both lifting and propelling the foot.

A shock absorbing lanyard is a one-piece webbing. The shock absorbing lanyard has a tubular-shaped high strength outer sheath and a high elongation member inside of the outer sheath. The outer sheath and the high elongation member are secured together at spaced apart connection locations and the high elongation member is generally not secured to the outer sheath between the connection locations. Heat treatment shrinks the length of the high elongation member. The outer sheath does not substantially shrink from the heat treatment relative to the high elongation member and gathers together in an accordion-like arrangement. A tensile load applied to the lanyard stretches the high elongation member and unfolds the gathered outer sheath. The high strength outer sheath supports the tensile load when completely unfolded while the high elongation member absorbs energy as it stretches or elongates.

An airbag is provided which securely prevents gas leakage through seams between panels and has excellent productivity. The airbag 10 has panels 1, 2. Peripheral portions of the panels 1, 2 are bonded with silicone adhesive 5 and also sewn together by sewing yarns 6A, 6B. Seams of the sewing yarns 6A, 6B may be coated by silicone sealant. The sewing yarn 6A composing an inner seam is thinner than the sewing yarn 6B composing an outer seam so that the sewing yarn 6A is broken during the inflation of the airbag 10, thereby absorbing energy.

An adaptive crash structure of a vehicle body or chassis of a motor vehicle includes a first metal casting and a second metal casting. A deformation element in the form of a metal casting for absorbing energy interconnects and forms with the first and second metal castings a single piece construction through a casting process. The deformation element is comprised of a plurality of funnel-shaped wedge bodies which are disposed in succession, with neighboring wedge bodies being connected through intervention of a predetermined breaking web. Each wedge body is defined by a diameter, wherein the diameters of the wedge bodies are sized to allow the wedge bodies to move telescopically into one another when a limit stress is reached and the predetermined breaking webs rupture so as to effect a tight intergrip of the telescoping wedge bodies in a self-locking manner.

The invention is a vertical axis wind turbine that utilizes leverage to compound the force from the wind, thereby creating exstordinary power, enough to turn a plurality of generators, thereby reducing the cost per kilowatt of electricity. It has wind blocking means that when struck by the wind from behind they shift to a position to block the wind to absorb energy from the wind thereby causing the turbine to revolve. At the same time, the wind blocking means on the opposite side of the turbine are being struck by the wind on their front leading edge causing them to rotate up to a position where they do not block wind. The result is that one half of the turbine is always being driven by the wind to cause rotation while the opposite side of the turbine is always allowing wind to pass through it. It doesn't matter which direction the wind is coming from.

A rotating annular crossflow filter shears radially outward flowing axial feed between counter-rotating coaxial centrifugal impellers. A radial impedance of flow at the impeller periphery slows the radially outward flow and increases residence time of feed between the impellers. Shear lift ejects solids from the boundary layer at the filter surface, and ejected solids collect by centrifugation at the impeller periphery, where they thicken into a sludge and are extruded. Gases, oils, floating solids, and fractions having a specific gravity less than water evolve into radial vortices and are sucked radially inward and out from between the impellers by an axial pump. Three way phase separation proceeds continuously in one pass through a simple mechanical device having a long residence time for feed in the processing zone.Opposing rugose portions of counter-rotating impeller surfaces cause audio frequency pressure pulses. At the impeller periphery, the pressure pulses milk liquid out of sludge. At the portion of the radial passage prior to the filter, pressure pulses evolve gases and degassed cavitation bubbles inactivate microbes. Degassing of the high energy forced periodic cavitation bubbles between the impellers removes the cushion of noncondensibles which would otherwise absorb energy on compression, therefore implosion becomes extremely violent and a barrage of high pressure pulses and ultraviolet light pulses inactivates microbes.Applications include field water purification, municipal and industrial wastewater degassing and sludge thickening, swimming pool filtration, effluent dewatering, wine and beverage degassing and clarification, fruit crushing, olive oil dewatering, produced brine and drilling mud processing, manure slurry dewatering and degassing, and recovery of solvents and fine suspended solids from fluid mixtures such as wastewater from machining operations.

The invention provides a terahertz radiation detector. The terahertz radiation detector comprises a terahertz sensitive structure and a substrate chip including a reading circuit, wherein the terahertz sensitive structure comprises a terahertz absorption structure, a heat conversion layer and a protection layer, when passive / active terahertz waves are focused on the terahertz sensitive structure through a terahertz object lens, absorbed energy is converted into heat energy through the terahertz absorption structure, the heat energy is converted into an electric signal through the heat conversion layer, and the electric signal is read through the reading circuit on the substrate chip. According to the terahertz radiation detector, a terahertz micro-bolometer micro-bolometer operates under a non-refrigeration environment, single point detection can be carried out, terahertz imaging can further be realized through a focal plane array.

A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones.

A firearm cartridge with a bullet including a body and a nose element. The body has a forward end, and an opposed rear end, with an intermediate cylindrical portion between the ends. The front end of the body defines a cavity that may have a cylindrical shape. The nose element is formed of a resilient material such as an elastomer, and has a first portion received in the cavity, and a pointed second portion extending from the forward end of the body. The bullet may be received in a centerfire rifle casing, for safe use in a tubular magazine rifle, so that the resilient tip protects against discharge of an adjacent cartridge primer by absorbing energy of recoil or other impulse. The second portion of the tip has a small meplat, and is smoothly contoured with the exterior surface of the front of the bullet, to provide an increased ballistic coefficient.

An energy-conserving building covering material includes a building panel, such as a roofing panel or a siding panel, coated with a thermomorphic material that can change its energy reflectance. The thermomorphic coating material can be combined with a carrier material, or it can be encapsulated with a solvent and optionally a color former in a microcapsule suspended in the carrier material. Alternatively, the building panel can include an electrophoretic material sandwiched between two transparent panels acting as electrodes. The building panel, when covered with said coating material and carrier material combination, can reflect radiant energy during warmer temperatures and can absorb radiant energy during cooler temperatures and re-radiate said absorbed energy into an interior of a building.

Apparatus and methods for isolating and absorbing energy associated with shock forces that are exerted upon an object, such as the energy attendant to shock forces experienced during and immediately following a mild to severe impact. The apparatus generally having: (a) a housing defining an enclosure; (b) at least one segment of non-liquid material contained within the enclosure; and (c) a piston placed within the enclosure. When the shock or impact force is applied to either the piston or housing, the piston urges the non-liquid material to pass or extrude through an aperture, orifice, channel or slot located either within the piston or the housing. The non-liquid material passes or extrudes through the aperture, orifice, channel or slot in a direction that is generally transverse to the relative movement of the piston within the enclosure. The passage or extrusion of the non-liquid material through the aperture, orifice, channel or slot absorbs or dissipates at least a portion of the energy attendant to the shock or impact force.