Document Document Title
US07662645B2 Reworked integrated circuit device and reworking method thereof
Reworking method for removing defects on integrated circuit device is disclosed. An integrated circuit is provided, which has a substrate, a conductive material layer formed in the substrate, a dielectric layer formed on the substrate, at least a contact plug embedded in the dielectric layer, and a conductive layer contacting to the contact plug formed on the dielectric layer. A defect is found in the conductive layer and the reworking method is performed, including an etch back process, a chemical mechanical polishing process, and a deposition process. The reworking method removes the prior formed conductive layer and reform a conductive layer to prevent the integrated circuit from being scraped.
US07662644B2 Labeled peptides, proteins and antibodies and processes and intermediates useful for their preparation
The invention provides peptide synthons having protected functional groups for attachment of desired moieties (e.g. functional molecules or probes). Also provided are peptide conjugates prepared from such synthons, and synthon and conjugate preparation methods including procedures for identifying optimum probe attachment sites. Biosensors are provided having functional molecules that can locate and bind to specific biomolecules within living cells. Biosensors can detect chemical and physiological changes in those biomolecules as living cells are moving, metabolizing and reacting to its environment. Methods are included for detecting GTP activation of a Rho GTPase protein using polypeptide biosensors. When the biosensor binds GTP-activated Rho GTPase protein, an environmentally sensitive dye emits a signal of a different lifetime, intensity or wavelength than when not bound. New fluorophores whose fluorescence responds to environmental changes are also provided that have improved detection and attachment properties, and that can be used in living cells, or in vitro.
US07662642B2 Method for detection of specific antibodies using ubiquitin fusion proteins
Disclosed are epitope-containing heat shock fusion proteins, DNA constructs encoding such fusion proteins, and methods of use. More specifically, disclosed are ubiquitin fusion proteins comprising ubiquitin fused to a plurality of identical or non-identical epitopes at specified locations.
US07662640B2 Method for silver staining of biological substances
A method for silver staining a gel on which biological substances such as nucleic acids and proteins are separated by electrophoresis, which comprises at least the following steps: (a) the step of immersing an untreated gel after the electrophoresis in an aqueous solution of sodium thiosulfate; (b) the step of immersing the gel obtained in the step (a) in a mixture of ethanol and an aqueous solution of sodium acetate; and (c) the step of immersing the gel obtained in the step (b) in a mixture of ethanol and an aqueous solution of silver nitrate.
US07662639B2 Composition, kit and method of detecting and locating traces of blood
The invention relates to a composition for the detection of traces of human or animal blood. The aforementioned composition comprises a luminol compound, an oxidizing agent and a base which are diluted in a preferably aqueous solvent. Said composition is characterized in that: the luminol compound is present in a quantity providing a concentration of between 1 and 20 mmoles/l in the end composition, the oxidizing agent is hydrogen peroxide which is present at a concentration of between 25 and 100 mmoles/l in the end composition, the base is soda, NaOH, which is present at a concentration of between 25 mmoles/l and 500 mmoles/l in the end composition. The invention also relates a kit and a method for preparing said composition. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of detecting and locating traces of human or animal blood.
US07662629B2 Peptide scaffolds for transfer of molecules into eukaryotic cells
Compositions and methods of using compositions with a nuclear targeting peptide containing a nonclassical nuclear localization signal to deliver selected molecules to the nucleus of eukaryotic cells are provided. The compositions are particularly useful in gene transfer methods.
US07662625B2 Methods for detecting the differentiation status of cells using 5T4 antigen expression
The present invention relates to methods for detecting the differentiation status of stem cells comprising detecting the expression of 5T4 antigen in said stem cells. The present invention also relates to methods for separating populations of undifferentiated or differentiated mammalian stem cells from a mixture of differentiated and undifferentiated stem cells through detection of 5T4 expression.
US07662622B2 Flea peritrophin nucleic acid molecules
The present invention relates to flea peritrophin proteins; to flea peritrophin nucleic acid molecules, including those that encode such flea peritrophin proteins; to antibodies raised against such proteins; and to compounds that inhibit the activity of such proteins. The present invention also includes methods to obtain and use such proteins, nucleic acid molecules, antibodies, and inhibitory compounds. The present invention also includes therapeutic compositions comprising such inhibitory compounds, particularly those that specifically inhibit flea peritrophin activity, as well as the use of such therapeutic compositions to treat animals.
US07662620B2 Human and mammalian stem cell-derived neuron survival factors
The present invention relates to human, rat and mouse stem cell-derived neuron survival factor polypeptides (SDNSF), a process for producing them, cDNA encoding SDNSF, a vector comprising the cDNA, host cells transformed by the vector, an antibody against SDNSF, pharmaceutical compositions containing SDNSF or the antibody, a method of assaying SDNSF, a reagent for assaying SDNSF, and a screening method using SDNSF. The polypeptides are effective in the survival of nerve cells and neuronal stem cells, therefore, efficacious in treating injury to the central nerve system and cancer.
US07662619B2 Sol-fusin: use of GP64-6His to catalyze membrane fusion
The present invention provides an isolated nucleic acid comprising the nucleotides set forth in the Sequence Listing as SEQ ID NO: 1. SEQ ID NO: 1 is an example of GP64-6His nucleic acid. The invention further provides polypeptides encoded by GP64-6His nucleic acids as well as the polypeptide encoded by SEQ ID NO: 2. The invention also provides liposomes comprising GP64-6His polypeptides as well as liposomes comprising GP64-6His polypeptides and biological molecules. The invention further provides a method of increasing the solubility of polypeptides comprising linking a 6His tag to a polypeptide and measuring the solubility of the 6His-tagged polypeptide, whereby an increase in solubility of the 6His-tagged polypeptide can be detected. The invention also provides a method of solubilizing a viral fusion polypeptide comprising linking a 6His tag to a viral fusion polypeptide. Further provided is a method of delivering a biological molecule to a cell comprising, administering the liposome comprising a GP64-6His polypeptide to a cell. This invention also provides a method of delivering a viral vaccine to a cell comprising administering the liposome comprising a GP64-6His polypeptide to a cell. Also provided is a method of delivering a DNA vaccine to a cell comprising administering the liposome comprising a GP64-6His polypeptide to a cell. Further provided is a GP64-6His polypeptide further comprising a binding site for a cell surface molecule. Also provided by this invention are chimeric proteins comprising GP64-6His.
US07662603B2 Nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide with the biological activity of a serine hydroxymethyltransferase
The present invention relates to serine hydroxymethyltransferase (E.C. 2.1.2.1) as novel target for herbicides, and to nucleic acid sequences encoding a polypeptide with the biological activity of a serine hydroxymethyltransferase, which, when not present, bring about growth retardation symptoms and chlorotic leaves, comprising the nucleic acid sequence SEQ ID No:3, and functional equivalents of the abovementioned nucleic acid sequence or the nucleic acid sequence SEQ ID NO:7 and functional equivalents of the abovementioned nucleic acid sequence. Moreover, the present invention relates to the use of the abovementioned nucleic acid sequences, of functional analogs of the SEQ ID NO:3 or SEQ ID NO:7 or of polypeptides encoded by one of the abovementioned nucleic acid sequences in a method for identifying herbicidally active compounds which inhibit serine hydroxymethyltransferases, and to the use of these compounds which have been identified by the method as herbicides.
US07662600B2 Modified flavin adenine dinucleotide dependent glucose dehydrogenase
An object of the present invention is to provide a more practically advantageous enzyme usable as a reagent for measuring blood glucose than the known enzymes used as blood glucose sensors.A modified flavin adenine dinucleotide dependent glucose dehydrogenase (FADGDH) with more improved heat stability than FADGDH derived from wild-type FADGDH, the modified FADGDH being derived from preferably a eukaryote, more preferably a filamentous fungus, and furthermore preferably an Aspergillus fungus, and, for example, those having a primary structure with at least one amino acid substituted, deleted, inserted or added to FADGDH having an amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID Nos. 2 or 46 in the sequence table.
US07662575B2 Use of cross-protection to identify novel vaccine candidates for infectious agents
This invention discloses methods for identifying Francisella tularensis vaccine candidates. It enables identification of novel vaccine candidates and quality assurance for vaccine batches, assessment of protection in vaccinates and identification of the infecting agent in vaccinates. Mice were first vaccinated with Brucella abortus O-polysaccharide (OPS) vaccine. These animals were then given 10 LD50s of F. tularensis live vaccine strain (LVS). Sixty percent (60%) of the vaccinated mice survived the multiple lethal doses. Sera were collected from these surviving mice and the antibodies were used to probe supernatant and cell lysates of live F. tularensis LVS cultures. Several F. tularensis components were identified only by the noted “survivor” antisera. Of these identified proteins, enzyme digestions and chemical oxidation suggest post-translational modifications of some proteins e.g. a 52 kDa glycoprotein, a 45 kDa lipoprotein and a 19 kDa nucleoprotein. The 52 kDa component caused nitrous oxide induction in tissue cultures at low concentrations, cell death at high concentrations. Vaccination with this gave partial protection while addition of other components acted synergistically to give enhanced protection from 250 LD50s of F. tularensis LVS.
US07662570B2 Labor biomarkers, methods comprising same, and methods targeting same
The present invention provides methods of predicting or detecting labor in a female subject and methods of testing a compound for an ability to delay the onset of labor. The present invention also provides methods of testing a labor marker useful in the diagnostic methods, isolated peptides identified in the present invention, methods for inhibiting labor, utilizing the peptides, and kits comprising methods of the present invention.
US07662566B2 Gene copy number profiling
The invention relates to copy number profile analysis. Specifically, copy number profile analysis is used to determine whether two or more separate tumors in a single individual are derived from a common source.
US07662560B2 Broad specificity affinity arrays: a qualitative approach to complex sample discrimination
Described is a method for discriminating complex biological samples using an array of discrete biological sensing elements immobilized onto a solid support in which constituents bound to the sensor array is directly determined by measuring the mass increase on the surface; data analysis of said method is performed using neutral network or statical based pattern recognition techniques. In a preferred embodiment the liquid sample is tested for the presence of soluble constituent(s) by contacting said sample with said sensor array under specific conditions, removing unbound sample constituent(s), determining the mass increase on the surface and comparising said mass increase data with a reference standard using pattern recognition software.
US07662558B2 Method of profiling gene expression in a human subject
The present invention is directed to detection and measurement of gene transcripts in blood. Specifically provided is a RT-PCR analysis performed on a drop of blood for detecting, diagnosing and monitoring diseases using tissue-specific primers. The present invention also describes methods by which delineation of the sequence and/or quantitation of the expression levels of disease-associated genes allows for an immediate and accurate diagnostic/prognostic test for disease or to assess the effect of a particular treatment regimen.
US07662553B2 Polymorphisms in the ERCC1 gene for predicting treatment outcome
The invention provides compositions and methods for determining the increased risks for recurrence of certain cancers and the likelihood of successful treatment with one or both of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The methods comprising determining the type of genomic polymorphism present in a predetermined region of the gene of interest isolated from the subject or patient. Also provided are nucleic acid probes and kits for determining a patient's cancer risk and treatment response.
US07662552B2 Method of diagnosing and treating lesion of crystalline lens using human CRYGS gene and coding product thereof
The method of diagnosing lesions of crystalline lens such as cataract is disclosed. It comprises detecting variation of crygs gene, transcript and/or protein of individuals compared with normalty. The individual suffers from cataract more possible than normalty when occurring the variation. The present invention also discloses the method and pharmaceutical composition of treating lesions of crystalline lens such as cataract.
US07662544B2 Method for manufacturing a master, master, method for manufacturing optical elements and optical element
Disclosed are a method for manufacturing of a master for manufacturing of optical elements having optically effective structures by molding structures, which are formed on the master, onto a surface of an optical substrate, by providing a substrate; coating a surface of said substrate for forming a coating on said substrate; and patterning said coating for forming structures in said coating; a master for manufacturing of optical elements; and a method for manufacturing of optical elements as well as to an optical element having at least one surface, wherein at least in portions of said surface optically effective structures are formed.
US07662543B2 Pattern forming method and method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A pattern forming method includes forming a resist film on a substrate, coating the resist film with a coating solution which forms a cover film on the resist film to form the cover film on the resist film, transferring a pattern onto the resist film by an immersion lithography method using a liquid immersion fluid to form a latent image on the resist film, removing the cover film after the formation of the latent image, conducting a first inspection to inspect whether or not the cover film has a defect between said forming the latent image and said removing the cover film, performing predetermined processing when the defect is found in the first inspection, and developing the resist film to form a resist pattern on the substrate after said removing the cover film.
US07662542B2 Pattern forming method and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A pattern forming method includes the following steps. A resist pattern is formed on a to-be-processed film. A mask pattern including the resist pattern and a resin film formed on a surface of the resist pattern is formed. Slimming of the mask pattern is executed.
US07662537B2 Lithographic printing original plate and lithographic printing plate
An object of the present invention is to provide a lithographic printing plate with a hydrophilic layer mainly made from resins which has a photosensitivity to the light in near infrared region, on which images can be printed directly with laser beam, requiring no development and wiping off operation, and immediately recovering from ink stains without any difficulties when an ink attaches to non-image areas on printing, and a photosensitive resin composition applied to the printing plate.A lithographic printing original plate having a photosensitive layer formed on a support is characterized in that the surface of the photosensitive layer has a phase-separation structure, and the recessed parts are formed on the surface of a photosensitive layer by the dissolution of one component of photosensitive layer constituting the phase-separation and the surface of the photosensitive layer is changed to have affinity for ink by irradiation with light.
US07662536B2 Resin particle liquid dispersion for electrostatic image developing toner, production process of the liquid dispersion, electrostatic image developing toner, production process of the toner, electrostatic image developer and image forming method
A resin particle liquid dispersion for an electrostatic image developing toner includes: a polycondensable resin obtained by polycondensing at least one selected from the group consisting of a polycondensable monomer, an oligomer of the polycondensable monomer and a prepolymer of the polycondensable monomer, wherein the resin particle liquid dispersion further comprises a compound having a solubility parameter of 8 or less.
US07662522B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor devices, and method for forming a pattern onto an exposure mask
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes calculating a correction amount for correcting a dimension error generated in a pattern, by using an area and a total length of sides of a perimeter of the pattern included in each grid region of a plurality of mesh-like grid regions made by virtually dividing a pattern creation region of an exposure mask, exposing the pattern whose dimension has been corrected by the correction amount onto a substrate on which a resist film is coated, developing the resist film after the exposing, and processing the substrate by using a resist pattern after the developing.
US07662513B2 Negative electrode active material for lithium-based secondary battery and method of preparing same
A negative electrode active material for a lithium-based secondary battery includes a graphite-like carbon material having an intensity ratio I(110)/I(002) of an X-ray diffraction peak intensity I(002) at a (002) plane to an X-ray diffraction peak intensity I(110) at a (110) plane of less than 0.2.
US07662510B2 X-ray sensitive battery separator and a method for detecting the position of a separator in a battery
The instant application relates to an X-ray sensitive battery separator for a secondary lithium battery and a method for detecting the position of a separator in a secondary lithium battery. The X-ray sensitive battery separator includes a microporous membrane having an X-ray detectable element. The X-ray detectable element constitutes less than 0.1% by weight of the microporous membrane. The method for detecting the position of a separator in a battery includes the following steps: (1) providing a battery including an X-ray sensitive battery separator; (2) subjecting the battery to X-ray radiation; and (3) thereby detecting the position of said separator in said battery.
US07662508B2 Secondary battery module
A secondary battery module includes at least more than two battery aggregates having a plurality of unit batteries continuously arranged, and a housing receiving the battery aggregates, wherein, with respect to the arrangement direction of the unit batteries, each of the unit batteries of each of the battery aggregates is disposed in an oblique direction against the arrangement direction of the unit batteries.
US07662504B2 Direct oxidation fuel cell
A direct oxidation fuel cell is provided. A direct oxidation fuel cell includes one or more electricity generators which have a membrane-electrode assembly and anode and cathode members disposed in close contact with respective sides of the membrane-electrode assembly interposed therebetween to generate electrical energy and water by a reaction of a fuel and oxygen. The cathode member includes a plurality of air vents through which air flows and is exposed to the atmosphere. Diameters of a plurality of the air vents gradually increase in a direction toward an exposed area of the cathode member.
US07662502B2 Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells, and an ejector for supplying a fuel gas to the fuel cell stack. A flow rectifier for rectifying the flow of the fuel gas is provided at a portion of an insulating plate of the fuel cell stack connecting the ejector and the fuel gas supply passage. The flow rectifier includes an opening having a laterally elongated shape in correspondence with the bottom of the fuel gas supply passage having a laterally elongated shape, and a plurality of holes provided above the opening.
US07662501B2 Transpiration cooling and fuel cell for ultra mobile applications
In some embodiments, transpiration cooling and fuel cell for ultra mobile applications is presented. In this regard, an apparatus is introduced having an integrated circuit device, a fuel cell to power the integrated circuit device, wherein the fuel cell produces water as a byproduct, a chassis to house the integrated circuit device and the fuel cell, and a skin to cover the chassis, the skin comprising a waterproof layer configured to prevent water from contacting the integrated circuit device and a water absorbent layer of hydro gel configured to absorb water. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.
US07662500B2 Package for a miniature fuel cell
A package for a fuel cell having an upper plate having a plurality of openings, the front surface of a cell element being intended to be received under each opening to close it, each cell element having a first pad and a second connection pad, each opening being provided with at least one crossbar connecting two sides of the opening, this crossbar having at least a conductive track portion having a first end connected to a pad of a first cell element and having a second end connected to a pad of a neighboring cell element.
US07662499B2 Plate elements for fuel cell stacks
The invention relates to a plate element for a fuel cell stack which comprises a frame region and at least one inner region which is surrounded by the frame region. In addition, it has a plurality of webs which extend from the frame region into the at least one inner region and define a flow guidance structure in the at least one inner region, in which at least four bore holes are in the frame region of which at least two are connected with the flow guidance structure.
US07662484B2 Component, anti-oxidation coating for such a component and method of producing the same
A component such as a gas turbine engine component has an oxidation protective layer formed as a substrate surface region in a substrate of the component. The substrate has a nickel-based composition including nickel and an aluminum proportion of greater than 4.5 weight %. The surface region is formed by diffusion of at least platinum into the substrate surface region to provide an integrated platinum proportion of 5 to 40 weight percent over the integration depth range in the surface region.
US07662480B2 Butyl ionomer having improved surface adhesion
A butyl rubber ionomer having improved adhesion to substrates whose surfaces have polar functional groups. Examples of such substrate materials include stainless steel, glass, mylar or Teflon®. The adhesion of the butyl rubber ionomer to the substrate is at least 25% greater than the adhesion of a non-ionomeric butyl rubber to the same substrate surface and with certain substrates is more than 150% greater. The adhesion is improved with increasing levels of multiolefin content in the butyl rubber ionomer. The adhesion is greatest for butyl rubber ionomers having a high multiolefin content (at least 3.5 mol% of multiolefin monomers or at least 1.5 mol % of residual multiolefins). By taking advantage of these high adhesion levels, a composite article can be formed between the butyl rubber ionomer and the substrate.
US07662479B2 Liquid silicone rubber coating composition, curtain air bag, and method of producing same
A liquid silicone rubber coating composition that is ideal for forming a coating on an air bag is provided. The composition includes: (A) an organopolysiloxane containing two or more alkenyl groups bonded to silicon atoms within each molecule, (B) an organohydrogenpolysiloxane containing at least two silicon atom-bonded hydrogen atoms within each molecule, (C) an addition reaction catalyst, (D) a finely powdered silica with a specific surface area of at least 50 m2/g, (E) an organosilicon compound containing an epoxy group and a silicon atom-bonded alkoxy group within each molecule, and (F) a compound represented by a general formula: Al(OH)(OCOR)2 (wherein, R represents identical or different, unsubstituted or substituted monovalent hydrocarbon groups of 1 to 20 carbon atoms). Leakage of the inflator gas when the air bag is in an inflated state is suppressed, enabling production of an air bag that exhibits excellent sustainability of the inflation period.
US07662474B2 Flame-retardant plastic composition, yarn and textile structure coated therewith
The invention concerns a halogen-free flame retardant plastic composition, for coating a substrate, comprising an acrylic resin and an intumescent agent. It is in the form of plastisol, and comprises therefore a plasticizing medium wherein the acrylic resin and the intumescent agent are dispersed, said plastisol being formulated such that, in combination: the viscosity remains not more than 6000 mPa's, measured with a Brookfield RVT viscometer at 20 revolutions per minute, its rheological behavior is pseudo-plastic and Newtonian.
US07662473B2 Amorphous inorganic ceramic material and method of producing same
An amorphous inorganic ceramic material including silicon, carbon and oxygen is provided. In the ceramic material, the average elemental ratio between silicon, carbon and oxygen is represented by a compositional formula: SiCaOb wherein, a is a number that satisfies: 0.5≦a≦3.0, and b is a number that satisfies 0.5≦b≦4.0), the material has a siloxane skeleton formed of Si—O—Si bonds, and the hydrogen mass fraction is within a range from 0 to 1% by mass. The material exhibits excellent heat resistance, wettability with other materials, strength and elastic modulus, and is useful as a reinforcing material for composite materials, or as an exhaust gas filter material or the like.
US07662470B2 Method and derived product, for the preparation of chips, flakes, pastes, and similar items, containing particles, to be added to moulding polymers and paints
This invention concerns an agglomeration of particles to be used as additives for moulding thermoplastic polymers or paints, said agglomeration being in the form of chips, flakes, powder or paste in which a coating with a carrier of said particles is provided that moves in between the particles to keep them essentially separate from one another, said particles being substantially coated all over their surface. The invention also concern a method to obtain the particles coating with a carrier substantially all over the surface of said particles in form apt to be additivate to moulding thermoplastic polymers or paints in order to obtain flatting of moulded pieces with said thermoplastic polymers or painted with said paints said agglomeration being in the form of chips, flakes, powder or paste, characterized by the fact that said particles are mixed with said carrier in powder to obtain a mixture, said mixing occurring at a temperature which is close, but lower then melting point of said carrier, in order to provoke an adhesion of speck of said carrier on the surface of said particles.
US07662468B2 Composite materials made from pretreated, adhesive coated beads
A composite material comprised of polymeric beads and adhesive, primarily intended for use in constructing buildings, athletic fields, waste pond covers, packaging, contact sports gear and medial equipment, is comprised of a plurality of electrical excitation zone-treated beads having average diameters between about 1 mm and about 10 mm that are substantially coated with the adhesive material and used in quantities such that void spaces constitute at least about 10 percent by volume of the total volume of the composite material. Upon curing, said adhesive preferably has hardness levels ranging from about Shore A 20 to about Shore A 95.
US07662461B2 Synthetic leather articles and methods for producing the same
Novel synthetic leather articles comprise a substrate and a coating applied to a surface of the substrate. The coating comprises a resin and a polymeric colorant. The polymeric colorant comprises a chromophore and an oligomeric constituent bound to the chromophore. Novel methods for producing synthetic leather articles using polymeric colorants are also provided.
US07662456B2 Guarded cover sheet for LCD polarizers and method of making the same
The invention generally relates to polymer films used as protective cover sheets for polarizer plates, their manufacture, and to a method for producing polarizing plates employing such polymer films. More particularly, the invention provides a guarded cover sheet composite comprising a temporary carrier substrate having a first cover sheet comprising a first low birefringence film on one side and a second cover sheet comprising a second low birefringence film on the other side.
US07662450B2 Ornamental ribbon and the process for its formation
A ribbon used in binding and decorating includes two separate superposed flat films of polyolefin plastic, which are bonded or glued together to form an intimate union, the films differing form each other by their elastic elongaton and/or heat-shrinkage properties such that, on leaving the production equipment, the difference between the films results in a different extent of shortening between the two films, to thereby cause curving of their constituted assembly. The curving is contained within a range of elastic deformation compatible with the curvature of the subsequent winding of the ribbon and such as to create spontaneous curling of the ribbon at the ambient temperatures at which it is used, as soon as it is unwound.
US07662448B2 Photosensitive resin composition for column spacers for liquid crystal display device, column spacers formed using the composition and display device comprising the column spacers
A photosensitive resin composition for forming column spacers for a liquid crystal display device is provided. The composition includes an alkali-soluble resin, a reactive unsaturated compound, a photoinitiator and a solvent. The alkali-soluble resin includes structural units represented by Formulae 1, 2 and 3, which are described in the specification. A pattern formed using the composition is also provided. The pattern shows improved thickness uniformity, good developability without leaving any residual image, superior solvent resistance and high recovery rate.
US07662446B2 Polarizing plate
A polarizing plate has a polarizer and a protective film formed on at least one surface of the polarizer. The protective film is formed by curing an energy ray-curable composition that contains at least one of a first energy ray-polymerizing compound having a bisphenol residue, a second energy ray-polymerizing compound having a neopentylglycol group, a third energy ray-polymerizing compound having a trimethylolpropane group, and a fourth energy ray-polymerizing compound having a pentaerythritol group. In the polarizing plate, though the protective film is thin, the polarizer is protected from the influence of external moisture, etc., and therefore its polarizability is kept good even in high-temperature high-humidity environments.
US07662440B2 Process for marking object surfaces
The invention relates to a process for the marking of an object surface, wherein there is arranged in contact with, or a distance away from the object surface a carrier element, featuring on its side facing the object surface at least one metal coating embedded in other layers, whereby the layers in particular form a Low-E coating system and whereby a laser beam is directed onto the coating system and by reason of the laser irradiation material is transferred from the coating system onto the object surface to be marked, adhering thereto as a matrix with metallic nano-particles, whereby the matrix is formed of the substances originally present in the layers of the coating system. The invention furthermore relates to an object with an object surface marked according to this process.
US07662436B1 Method of spin coating a film of non-uniform thickness
Embodiments of the invention provide a method for spin coating a film onto a substrate. Preferred embodiments deposit a film, such as a resist, having a thickness gradient from the substrate's centrifugal center to its edge. The gradient may be linear or stepwise continuous, for example. Other embodiments of the invention provide a semiconductor fabrication method. The method comprises forming a resist layer having a predetermined thickness on a substrate. Preferably, the predetermining includes making swing curve measurements on a single test wafer that is coated according to embodiments of the invention.
US07662411B2 Process for removal of solvent and detergent from plasma
The present invention relates to a process of disinfecting biological materials. In particular, a novel process is provided for removing detergent and/or solvent added to biological materials for the inactivation of viral contaminants. Safe, efficient, and economical methods for removing virucidal agents such as solvent-detergent from virus-inactivated pooled plasma by hydrophobic interaction chromatography are provided. Methods for clearing solvent-detergent from virus-inactivated biological materials in a single step are also provided.
US07662390B2 Lawsonia intracellularis subunit vaccine
The present invention relates to nucleic acid sequences encoding novel Lawsonia intracelluaris proteins. It furthermore relates to DNA fragments, recombinant DNA molecules and live recombinant carriers comprising these sequences. Also it relates to host cells comprising such nucleic acid sequences, DNA fragments, recombinant DNA molecules and live recombinant carriers. Moreover, the invention relates to proteins encoded by these nucleotide sequences and to their use for the manufacturing of vaccines. The invention also relates to vaccines for combating Lawsonia intracellulairs infections and methods for the preparation thereof. Finally the invention relates to diagnostic tests for the detection of Lawsonia intracellularis DNA, the detection of Lawsonia intracellularis antigens and of antibodies against Lawsonia intracellularis.
US07662383B2 Chimeric antibody against tumor associated antigens and its use in diagnosing tumors
The invention relates to murine monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), A, B, C and D, which are directed against tumor-associated antigens. The nearly complete nucleotide sequences of the V genes of these MAbs are described, so that the relevant variable domains can be put together to give chimeric MAbs, or “humanized” MAbs are obtained by inserting the hypervariable regions (complementarity determining regions=CDR) into a human MAb framework. Antibody constructs of this type can be employed in human therapy and in vivo diagnosis without the disadvantages observed with murine MAbs.
US07662381B2 Interferon alpha receptor 1 antibodies and their uses
The present invention provides isolated human monoclonal antibodies that bind to IFNAR-1 and that are capable of inhibiting the biological activity of Type I interferons. Immunoconjugates, bispecific molecules and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the antibodies of the invention are also provided. The invention also provides methods for inhibiting Type I interferon-mediated disorders using the antibodies of the invention, including methods for treating autoimmune disorders, transplant rejection or Graft Versus Host Disease using the antibodies of the invention.
US07662372B2 Insect inhibitory lipid acyl hydrolases
The present invention discloses DNA sequences encoding plant and novel lipid acyl hydrolase proteins having coleopteran specific insect inhibitory activity, as well as variants and permuteins having enhanced levels of activity directed to controlling coleopteran insect infestation and enhanced levels of expression in planta. Additionally, catalytic dyad active site conformation is disclosed for both dicot and monocot plant derived non-specific lipid acyl hydrolases having coleopteran insect inhibitory properties.
US07662370B2 Low-toxicity, long-circulating human interferon-alpha PEGylated mutants
Interferon-alpha (IFNα) analog proteins modified by chemical attachment of at least one hydrophilic polymer moiety, such as polyethylene glycol chain, are described. In one embodiment, the IFNα analog protein has an amino acid sequence that differs from a native human IFNα interferon-alpha by one or more amino acid residues in the N-terminal region, comprised of between about residues 1-27, inclusive, by one or more substitutions selected based on the amino acid residue at the corresponding position of a mature interferon-tau (IFNτ) protein. Methods of treating viral diseases and other disorders with the polymer-modified IFNα analog protein are also described.
US07662365B2 Polymer conjugates of opioid antagonists
The invention provides polymer conjugates of opioid antagonists comprising a polymer, such as poly(ethylene glycol), covalently attached to an opioid antagonist. The linkage between the polymer and the opioid antagonist is preferably hydrolytically stable. The invention also includes a method of treating one or more side effects associated with the use of opioid analgesics, such as constipation, nausea, or pruritus, by administering a polymer conjugate of the invention.
US07662356B2 Method of refining Si
The present invention provides a method of refining low purity Si by a slag, in particular removing B, which suppresses wear of the reaction vessel due to the slag and produces high purity Si used for solar battery materials etc. at a low cost, comprising adding SiO2 and an alkali oxide or alkali carbonate as a slag material into molten Si to form a slag during which adding one or more types of materials among materials the same as the reaction vessel material used or ingredients included in the reaction vessel material into the slag so as to remove the impurities in the molten Si.
US07662355B2 Silicon nanosized linear body and a method for producing a silicon nanosized linear body
Silicon nanosized linear bodies with different structures and properties can be produced by appropriately setting the condition for the pretreatment by a radical (reaction condition of a hydrogen radical, e.g. concentration). A silicon nanosized linear body is produced from a silicon radical active species in the presence of a catalyst. The catalyst is at least one selected from Ga, Ga compound, In, In compound, Tl and Tl compound that are pretreated by a radical.
US07662344B2 Locking pipette tip and mounting shaft
The invention relates to a pipette tip mounting shaft configuration and a disposable pipette tip having a matching configuration. The mounting shaft includes a locking section located above a lower sealing section. The locking section has outwardly extending locking lobes circumferentially spaced around the mounting shaft and located above a stop member that separates the lower sealing section from the upper locking section. In certain embodiments, the diameter of the mounting shaft below the stop member is reduced in order to lessen insertion and ejection forces, which is particularly helpful for hand-held multi-channel pipettors. In these embodiments, the lower sealing section contains either a frustoconical sealing section, or an annular groove and a sealing ring, such as a flouroelastomeric O-ring seal.
US07662342B2 Measuring cell
The invention relates to a spectrophotometric measuring cell, useful for automated reagent mixing and for handsfree physical cleansing comprising: a measuring cell; a shaker; and an actuator. The invention also relates to a method for automatically mixing of fluids and/or reagents and for handsfree physical cleansing of the inner core of spectrophotometric measuring cells.
US07662341B2 Sensor arrangement and method for operating a sensor arrangement
A sensor arrangement and method of operating the sensor arrangement are described. The sensor arrangement has sensor devices formed on or in a substrate and a calibration device for calibrating a respective sensor device. Each sensor device has an electrical signal converter which is a field-effect transistor (FET) having a gate terminal coupled to a sensor element that is coupled to the signal converter, a device that keeps constant the electrical voltage between source and drain terminals of the FET, and a device for detecting the value of the electric current flowing through the signal converter. The sensor element characteristically influences the electrical conductivity of the signal converter on account of a sensor event on the sensor element. The calibration device brings the gate region of the FET to an electrical calibration potential such that the electric current is independent of parameter fluctuations of the FET.
US07662340B2 Extractor chemical analyzer and chemical analyzing method
The invention is achieved by feeding a reagent using centrifugal force, without providing a valve for controlling the flow rate of the reagent in the reagent flow path.A chemical analyzer is used which comprises a structure that is supported so as to be rotatable, said structure comprising a capturing section for capturing specific chemical substances from a specimen, specimen containers and reagent containers including washing solution containers.The washing solution containers and the other reagent containers comprise a liquid outlet port which is provided at the side opposite to the rotation center side, and the capturing section is held in the structure, closer to the outer periphery side than the specimen container and washing solution and the other reagent containers, and a flow path is provided, with a bent flow path portion which returns to the rotation center side, and which at a particular stage prevents the flow of liquid from the washing solution containers to the capturing section, and at another stage, forms the liquid flow due to the centrifugal force from the rotation of the structure.
US07662324B2 Polymer processing aid and method for processing polymers
In an exemplary embodiment, the present method includes the stops of providing a polymer resin to be processed: blending particulate boron nitride (BN) and a fluorine-containing polymer with said polymer resin to provide a resin blend: heating said resin blend to obtain a desired flowability value: and processing said resin blend into a desired shape.
US07662323B1 Elastomeric bicomponent fibers comprising block copolymers having high flow
Bicomponent fibers having a sheath-core morphology where the sheath is a thermoplastic polymer and the core is an elastomeric compound are made which can be continuously extruded from the melt at high production rates. The elastomeric compound comprises a coupled, selectively hydrogenated block copolymer having high flow. The block copolymer has at least one polystyrene block of molecular weight from 5,000 to 7,000 and at least one polydiene block of molecular weight from 20,000 to 70,000 and having a high vinyl content of 60 mol % or greater. The bicomponent fibers are useful for the manufacture of articles such as woven fabrics, spunbond non-woven fabrics or filters, staple fibers, yarns and bonded, carded webs. The bicomponent fibers can be made using a process comprising coextrusion of the thermoplastic polymer and elastomeric compound to produce fibers at greater than 800 mpm and having a denier from 0.1 to 50 g/9000 m.
US07662320B2 Method and device for separating pasty materials
A pasty molding material is divided by a process wherein, for the division, the pasty molding material is brought into contact with at least on stream containing at least one fluid medium.
US07662319B2 System and method for two-shot molding crash pad
A system and a method for two-shot molding a crash pad, in which a passenger side air bag (PAB) door region is more flexible than other regions is disclosed. The system includes a first resin supply unit, a second resin supply unit, a temperature sensor mounted on a predetermined position of a mold, adjacent to a target material interface, and a controller for controlling a time at which to supply the second resin into the passenger side air bag region based on a detection signal from the temperature sensor. This system is cost effective and can maintain a uniform interface between different types of materials.
US07662317B2 Dispersant, paste composition including the dispersant, inorganic device using the paste composition, and display apparatus including the inorganic device
Provided is a dispersant including a hydrophobic moiety with a branched alkyl group and an arylene group and a hydrophilic moiety with an alkylene oxide group and a carboxylic acid group. The alkyl group is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group of 5-30 carbon atoms, the arylene group is a substituted or unsubstituted arylene group of 6-30 carbon atoms, and the alkylene oxide group is a substituted or unsubstituted alkylene oxide group of 2-10 carbon atoms. The dispersant has good dispersibility, and a low residual carbon content after sintering. Thus, a paste composition including the dispersant can maintain a low viscosity and disperse many inorganic particles. Thus, an inorganic device prepared using the paste composition can have a low residual carbon content and a high packing density.
US07662314B2 Conductive organic/inorganic composite composition and organic electroluminescent device comprising the same
A conductive organic/inorganic complex composition, a method of preparing the composition, a thin conductive organic/inorganic complex film prepared using the composition, an organic electroluminescent device comprising the thin conductive organic/inorganic complex film, and a method of manufacturing the organic electroluminescent device. The conductive organic/inorganic complex composition is prepared by mixing a mixed solution comprising a conductive polymeric monomer, an oxidizing agent, and an alcohol solvent with a silica sol solution comprising an organosilicon compound, water, an acid catalyst, and an alcohol solvent. According to the present invention, the conductive organic/inorganic complex composition is hydrophobic and insoluble in water and an organic solvent, has a high mechanical strength, and is thermally and chemically stable. Further, a compositional composition of the conductive organic/inorganic complex composition can be changed over a wide range.
US07662302B2 Lifting and supporting device
The invention relates to a lifting and supporting device for handling and positioning particularly large-surface elements in the shape of panels, especially in plasma processing installations. Said lifting and supporting device comprises a particularly metallic base plate, on which a plurality of particularly dielectric pins are arranged. Said pins may be set in pin holes especially provided in the base plate. Said panel-shaped element may be positioned on the pin end for the handling thereof or during a plasma processing. Said panel-shaped element may present an electrostatic charge. A small diameter for the pins and pin holes is selected such that, in conformity with the panel-shaped element provided with the electrostatic charge, an undesired electrostatic charge on said panel-shaped element is essentially avoided or, in conformity with the panel-shaped element to be plasma processed, a plasma perturbation in the area of the pin holes or pins is essentially avoided.
US07662292B2 Radium selective media and method for manufacturing
Media for selectively removing radium ions from water where manganese oxide (DMO) has been dispersed in a cation ion exchange resin (gel or macroporous) to adsorb radium ions. The media is manufactured by precipitating a soluble manganese (II) salt such as manganous sulfate with a permanganate salt such as sodium permanganate inside a strong acid cation (SAC) to form a resin containing highly dispersed manganese oxides. The resin is then post treated with a reducing agent such as sodium metabisulfite (Na2S2O2) to prevent the leaching of soluble manganese from the resin. The reducing treatment ensures that soluble manganese species will be converted into an insoluble oxide form.
US07662282B2 Permanent magnet array iron filter
A permanent magnet array iron filter has a generally circular collar made of a high magnetic permeability material with a plurality of magnetic assemblies interiorly disposed longitudinally around an interior circumference therein. Each magnetic assembly has two magnets with opposite poles facing the center of the filter and a gap between the adjacent assemblies. This arrangement intensifies the resultant magnetic field and projects the field deeply within the interior region of the filter. Rare earth permanent magnets are used to maximize the magnetic field. The collar may be coated with a plastic coating to protect the filter. The collar has a gap to provide flexibility when sliding the filter over an oil filter. The thickness of the collar may be adjusted to meet the requirements of a particular application.
US07662277B1 Wastewater treatment apparatus
An improved wastewater treatment apparatus is provided. The waste treatment apparatus illustratively follows a primary treatment system such as, for example, a septic tank, a primary clarifier, a lagoon, or an activated sludge process.
US07662265B2 Electrophoretic assembly of electrochemical devices
Methods are provided for making bipolar electrochemical devices, such as batteries, using electrophoresis. A bipolar device is assembled by applying a field that creates a physical separation between two active electrode materials, without requiring insertion of a discrete separator film or electrolyte layer.
US07662262B2 Supercalendering optimization using a steam shower
There is described a method and apparatus for applying steam from a steam source to a moving web to thereby improve the smoothness and gloss of the web. A housing has at least one cooling chamber upstream and at least one steam chamber downstream. The cooling air in the cooling chamber is used to cool the web before steam is applied to the web from the steam chamber. This allows a sufficient volume of steam to be delivered to the web to thereby raise its moisture content to a desired level to thus achieve optimized calendering of the web.
US07662258B2 Roofing mat using urea-formaldehyde binder of particular viscosity and surface tension
Provided is thermosetting urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin binder formulation, preferably prepared with modified styrene-maleic anhydride. The formulation has a viscosity in the range of from 3 to 10 cP and a surface tension of from 35 to 50 mN/m, and is prepared using a UF resin composition exhibiting a viscosity of from 175 to 250 cP.
US07662254B2 Methods of and apparatus for aligning electrodes in a process chamber to protect an exclusion area within an edge environ of a wafer
Positional relationships are established in a process chamber. A base is configured with a lower electrode surface to support a wafer, and an upper electrode has a lower surface. A drive mounted on the base has a linkage connected to the upper electrode. A fixture placed on the lower surface moves into a desired orientation of the lower electrode. With the upper electrode loosely connected by the linkage to the drive, the fixture transfers the desired orientation to the upper electrode. The linkage is tightened to maintain the desired orientation, the fixture is removed and a process exclusion insert is mounted to the upper electrode. The drive moves the upper electrode and the insert to define an inactive process zone between the upper electrode and the wafer on the lower electrode to protect a central area of the wafer during etching of a wafer edge environ around the central area.
US07662253B2 Apparatus for the removal of a metal oxide from a substrate and methods therefor
An apparatus generating a plasma for removing metal oxide from a substrate is disclosed. The embodiment includes a powered electrode assembly, including a powered electrode, a first dielectric layer, and a first wire mesh disposed between the powered electrode and the first dielectric layer. The embodiment also includes a grounded electrode assembly disposed opposite the powered electrode assembly so as to form a cavity wherein the plasma is generated, the first wire mesh being shielded from the plasma by the first dielectric layer when the plasma is present in the cavity, the cavity having an outlet at one end for providing the plasma to remove the metal oxide.
US07662251B2 Method of manufacturing composite riser
A method of manufacturing a composite riser section with a liner assembly comprises holding the liner assembly in a horizontal position, bowing the liner assembly upward, and winding resin impregnated fibers about the liner assembly to form a structural composite overwrap. Another method of manufacturing a composite riser with a liner assembly comprises holding the liner assembly in a horizontal position between two supports, and winding resin impregnated fibers about the liner assembly to form a structural composite overwrap. A system for manufacturing a composite riser section with a liner assembly having a longitudinal axis comprises a first support and a second support that hold the liner assembly in a horizontal position therebetween, and a plurality of rollers that rotate the liner assembly about the longitudinal axis.
US07662250B2 Production method of dielectric ceramic composition and production method of electronic device
A production method of a dielectric ceramic composition at least including a main component including a dielectric oxide having perovskite-type crystal structure expressed by a formula ABO3 (note that in the formula, “A” indicates one or more elements selected from Ba, Ca, Sr and Mg, and that “B” indicates one or more elements selected from Ti, Zr and Hf) comprises steps of preparing a main component material including said dielectric oxide expressed by ABO3; preparing a subcomponent material including a composite oxide expressed by M4R6O(SiO4)6 (note that “M” indicates at least one selected from Ca and Sr, and that “R” indicates at least one selected from Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu); mixing said main component material and subcomponent material to obtain a dielectric ceramic composition material; and firing said dielectric ceramic composition material.
US07662243B2 Hot rolled steel sheet
An exemplary hot rolled steel sheet can included, in terms of percent by mass, C of 0.01 to 0.2%; Si of 0.01 to 2%; Mn of 0.1 to 2%; P of ≦0.1%; S of ≦0.03%; Al of 0.001 to 0.1%; N of ≦ 0.01%; and as a remainder, Fe and unavoidable impurities. For example, a microstructure can be substantially a homogeneous continuous-cooled microstructure, and an average grain size of the microstructure may be more than 8 μm and 30 μm or less. An exemplary method for manufacturing a hot rolled steel sheet can include subjecting a slab having the above composition to a rough rolling so as to obtain a rough rolled bar, subjecting the rough rolled bar to a finish rolling so as to obtain a rolled steel under conditions in which a finishing temperature is (Ar3 transformation point +50° C.) or more; and starting cooling the rolled steel after 0.5 seconds or more pass from the end of the finish rolling at a temperature of the Ar3 transformation point or more. At least in the temperature range from the Ar3 transformation point can be cooled to 500° C. at a cooling rate of 80°C./sec or more, a further cooling can be effectuated until the temperature is 500° C. or less to obtain a hot rolled steel sheet and coiling the hot rolled steel sheet.
US07662236B2 Method for forming insulation film
In a process involving the formation of an insulating film on a substrate for an electronic device, the insulating film is formed on the substrate surface by carrying out two or more steps for regulating the characteristic of the insulating film involved in the process under the same operation principle. The formation of an insulating film having a high level of cleanness can be realized by carrying out treatment such as cleaning, oxidation, nitriding, and a film thickness reduction while avoiding exposure to the air. Further, carrying out various steps regarding the formation of an insulating film under the same operation principle can realize simplification of the form of an apparatus and can form an insulating film having excellent property with a high efficiency.
US07662234B2 Method for purification of high purity sucrose material
A method for purifying a sucrose material already in a high purity liquid, crystalline or other form of sucrose, such as raw sugar, utilizing chromatography, or utilizing chromatography in connection with other methods of purification.
US07662232B2 Plasma processing apparatus
The object of the invention is to provide a plasma processing apparatus having enhanced plasma processing uniformity. The plasma processing apparatus comprises a processing chamber 1, means 13 and 14 for supplying processing gas into the processing chamber, evacuation means 25 and 26 for decompressing the processing chamber 1, an electrode 4 on which an object 2 to be processed such as a wafer is placed, and an electromagnetic radiation power supply 5A, wherein at least two kinds of processing gases having different composition ratios of O2 or N2 are introduced into the processing chamber through different gas inlets so as to control the in-plane uniformity of the critical dimension while maintaining the in-plane uniformity of the process depth.
US07662226B2 Pretreated aggregate for hotmix asphalt concrete applications and other related applications
A process of producing an asphalt concrete with enhanced performance is provided by utilizing a primer comprising uintahite and an augmenter. The primer is added to a hot aggregate with a surface temperature of at least 250 deg. F. prior to addition of an asphalt-derived base binder. The primer forms a primer interlayer between the hot aggregate and the base binder. As a result, the asphalt concrete has enhanced performance when compared with other asphalt concretes produced without a primer being added.
US07662217B2 Soil separator and sampler and method of sampling
A soil sampler includes a fluidized bed for receiving a soil sample. The fluidized bed may be in communication with a vacuum for drawing air through the fluidized bed and suspending particulate matter of the soil sample in the air. In a method of sampling, the air may be drawn across a filter, separating the particulate matter. Optionally, a baffle or a cyclone may be included within the fluidized bed for disentrainment, or dedusting, so only the finest particulate matter, including asbestos, will be trapped on the filter. The filter may be removable, and may be tested to determine the content of asbestos and other hazardous particulate matter in the soil sample.
US07662214B1 Disposable absorbent liner for use with refrigerator drawers and associated method
A protective liner includes a body formed from disposable and porous material and has planar top and bottom surfaces respectively. Such a body is removably positioned within an existing refrigerator drawer such that the body covers an entire bottom surface of the existing refrigerator drawer. The body has an outer layer provided with a uniform thickness extending along the top and bottom surfaces respectively. Such an outer layer is formed from paper material and the core member is formed from cotton. The body further has a unitary core member intercalated between the outer layer and is statically nested therebetween. Such a core member is formed from water-absorbent material for soaking up and trapping moisture from the foodstuff.
US07662195B2 Methanol steam reforming catalysts, steam reformers, and fuel cell systems incorporating the same
Methanol steam reforming catalysts, and steam reformers and fuel cell systems incorporating the same. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst includes zinc oxide as an active component. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst further includes at least one of chromium oxide and calcium aluminate. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst is not pyrophoric. Similarly, in some embodiments, steam reformers including a reforming catalyst according to the present disclosure may include an air-permeable or air-accessible reforming catalyst bed. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst is not reduced during use. In some embodiments, the methanol reforming catalysts are not active at temperatures below 275° C. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst includes a sulfur-absorbent material. Steam reformers, reforming systems, fuel cell systems and methods of using the reforming catalysts are also disclosed.
US07662190B2 Surface-modified implants
An osteogenic implant with improved osteointegration properties, this implant being made of titanium metal or a titanium-based alloy and being suitable for implantation in bones, said implant having a roughened surface, which in the hydroxylated state has been at least partially covered with a compound which comprises in the molecule at least two groups which are, independently of one another, a primary amino group, a secondary amino group, a carboxyl group, an amide group, a phosphano group and/or hydroxyl, or with a mixture of such compounds.
US07662184B2 Osteoimplant and method for making same
A method of manufacturing an osteoinductive osteoimplant is provided which comprises the steps of: demineralizing part or all of at least one surface of a monolithic section of cortical bone to a depth of at least about 100 microns; and, configuring the monolithic section of cortical bone to provide an osteoimplant possessing an outer surface possessing at least one demineralized zone and a non-demineralized zone. An implant produced according to the above method demonstrates improved osteoinduction without producing any clinically significant reduction of strength in critical regions of the osteoimplant.
US07662174B2 Spinal plate with screw locks and cam locks
A bone plate for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae or ends of a bone having a span for extending across the discontinuity. The span has brackets for attaching to the bone. The brackets have countersunk apertures terminating through which bone screws are placed in the bone. An cam bore is located between the countersunk apertures and a cam with lobe surfaces is positioned in the cam bore. Upon rotation of the cam, the lobe surfaces engage an end of the wedge shoes and move them so that the other end of the wedge shoes move into the countersunk apertures and frictionally engage the heads of the bone screws. The wedge shoe is provided with means to lock the cam in position. The wedge shoe is also provided with means to indicate that the shoe has completely engaged the head of the bone screw in the countersunk aperture.
US07662162B2 Tool and method for minimally invasive bypass surgery
A minimally-invasive coronary artery bypass graft procedure may be performed with a splittable proximal anastomosis tool. A distal anastomosis tool may be used as well, where that distal anastomosis tool may include a staple holder having two spaced-apart arms, staples detachably held by the staple holder, and an anvil connected to the staple holder.
US07662161B2 Vascular hole closure device
A device for closing an aperture in a vessel wall comprising an elongated member having a longitudinal axis and positionable inside the vessel against the internal opening of the aperture. The elongated member has a dimension to prevent egress of fluid through the aperture. A material forms two curved legs having ends positionable external of the vessel. The legs curve in different directions and a retention portion is formed in the material to retain the legs during placement of the elongated member inside the vessel.
US07662160B2 Suture loading
A device includes a body defining a tapered hole for guiding a member, such as a suture thread, into a tube, and a slot communicating with the hole for separating the body and the member. The body defines a bore for receiving the tube. The bore communicates with the tapered hole. The bore has a constant diameter or is tapered. A width of the bore is greater than a width of a narrowest portion of the tapered hole. The slot extends from the tapered hole and the bore to an external surface of the body. A method includes coupling a body to an end of a tube, guiding a member into the tube through a tapered hole, and separating the body and the member by passing the member through a slot.
US07662158B2 Wire twisting driver tool
A screw or nut driver having a handle having front and rear ends; a driver shaft having front and rear ends, the driver shaft being fixedly attached to or formed wholly with the handle, the driver shaft extending forwardly from the front end of the handle; a driver head fixedly attached to or formed wholly with the front end of the driver shaft; a first rearwardly opening bore extending forwardly into the handle from the rear end of the handle; a socket having front and rear ends, the socket being nestingly received within the first rearwardly opening bore; a second rearwardly opening bore extending forwardly into the socket from its rear end; at least a first radially opening bore extending radially outwardly from the second rearwardly opening bore; and at least a first traction pin nestingly received by and extending radially inwardly from the at least first radially opening bore.
US07662148B2 Systems and methods for intrastromal scanning patterns
A method for photodisrupting a preselected subsurface volume of corneal tissue to alter a cornea's refractive properties is disclosed. Specifically, at least one stromal volume having a substantially conical shaped surface is photodisrupted. For this purpose, a laser device having a laser source, laser scanner and one or more optical elements is typically used. In one embodiment, a plurality of stromal volumes, with each stromal volume having a substantially conical shaped surface, is sequentially photodisrupted to form a contiguous stromal cavity. In a particular implementation, each conical shaped surface defines a cone axis that is aligned to be co-linear with a reference axis that passes through the anterior surface of the eye and may be aligned orthogonally to the anterior surface of the eye.
US07662145B2 Partial-length indwelling urinary catheter and method permitting selective urine discharge
A partial-length catheter, or an extendable tube or sleeve member of the catheter, is selectively movable within the prostatic urethra to open a urine drainage passageway through and obstructed portion of the prostatic urethra or to open the external urinary sphincter muscle and thereby discharge urine from the bladder. A control element is manipulated at a position exterior of the urinary canal to selectively move the catheter or the extendable tube or sleeve member, thereby selectively controlling urine discharge. The catheter may also be used to diagnose urinary retention problems caused by a weak bladder or a prostatic obstruction.
US07662143B2 Apparatus and method for treating intravascular disease
Medical devices and methods of treatment using medical devices, and more particularly, methods of treating a treatment site in a blood vessel and devices or apparatuses for use therewith. In some embodiments, a method and apparatus for treating a treatment site in a blood vessel using fluid movement or agitation adjacent the treatment site is disclosed. In some embodiments, an apparatus is provided including one or more deployable structures adapted to create fluid movement within the vessel. The apparatus is inserted into the vessel, and the deployable structure is positioned adjacent the treatment site. The deployable structure is used to create fluid movement adjacent to the treatment site. In some embodiments, a treatment material, such as a medicine or drug, is introduced into the vessel proximate the treatment site, and the deployable structure is used to create fluid movement or agitation adjacent the treatment site to create a better interface between the treatment site and the medicine, or to move the medicine into the treatment site. In some embodiments, the fluid movement created by the deployable member aids in removal of tissue or other material from the treatment site.
US07662134B2 Needle stick protection device
A needle stick protection device includes a housing and a locking member positioned within the housing to permit the selective locking and releasing of the needle relative to the housing. The device further includes a self-locking member cooperating with an opening in the housing to permanently secure the tip of the needle for disposal. The self-locking member is longitudinal in shape and includes a plurality if spring biased locking tabs along the length thereof. The spring biased locking tabs extend outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the self-locking member; wherein the locking tabs engage inner wall surfaces of the housing in a locked position preventing removal of the self-locking member from the housing and securing the needle tip permanently within the housing.
US07662133B2 Spinal fluid introduction
A fluid introduction system includes an introducer configured to create a pressure of at least 69 kPa within a spine, and an operator configured to actuate the introducer to introduce fluid into the spine according to a predetermined fluid introduction profile. The system can include a computer readable medium having code for receiving fluid introduction data indicative of a fluid introduction parameter, and for receiving response data indicative of a response of the patient at a time related to a time of the fluid introduction data. A method for introducing fluid includes positioning a first introducer in a first portion of a spine, positioning a second introducer in a second, different portion of the spine and, without removing the first and second introducers, introducing fluid into the first portion of the spine with the first introducer and introducing fluid into the second portion of the spine with the second introducer.
US07662105B2 Systems and methods for determining respiration metrics
Systems, devices and methods provide for acquiring respiration information. A respiration information device includes timer circuitry to time a plurality of shorter time apertures and a plurality of longer time apertures. A respiration sensor, which may be implemented as a transthoracic impedance sensor, is configured to generate a signal indicative of patient respiration. For each aperture of the plurality of shorter time apertures and for each aperture of the plurality of longer time apertures, an estimated characteristic of the respiration is determined. Respiration metrics are developed using one or both of the estimated respiration characteristics of the shorter time apertures and the estimated respiration characteristics of the longer time apertures.
US07662102B2 Method of measuring instantaneous arterial blood pressure and compliance and device thereof
A method of measuring the instantaneous arterial blood pressure and compliance and the device thereof are disclosed. The method identifies a critical depth under the skin. At this critical position, the arterial mean blood pressure is equivalent to the mean blood pressure obtained on the skin. The variation in the arterial mean blood pressure is tracked and controlled to maintain the equivalence between the mean blood pressure measured on the skin and the arterial mean blood pressure. In this case, the compliance of the muscle tissues remains invariant. Therefore, the variation measured on the skin is simply the behavior of the blood vessel. Using the skin-artery correlation, the invention can obtain the instantaneous blood pressure after some computation and the dynamic compliance at the critical position.
US07662100B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic device
An edge detector executes a process to extract a surface of an inner wall of a left ventricle from a binarized image output from a binarization circuit. A telediastolic edge memory stores an intracardial surface image at the end of ventricular diastole from among intracardial surface images for time phases output from the edge detector. A displacement detector unit detects the amount of displacement for each site of the intracardial surface between time phases from the intracardial surface image at the telediastolic which is output from the telediastolic edge memory, a current intracardial surface image which is output from the edge detector, and a center-of-mass coordinate of the intracardial section at the telediastolic point which is stored in a telediastolic center-of-mass memory. A coloring processor unit applies a coloring process to each site of the surface of the current intracardial surface image based on the amount of displacement and outputs the result to an image synthesizer unit.
US07662099B2 Method and instrumentation to sense thermal lesion formation by ultrasound imaging
A combination therapy and imaging instrument is provided. The instrument includes: a therapy probe for producing energy to alter tissue; and an imaging probe proximate the therapy probe for imaging the tissue altered with the therapy probe.
US07662095B2 Endoscope provided with a lighting system and a combined image transmission
The invention relates to an endoscope used for lighting and visualizing the fields of an object in cavities. The inventive endoscope comprises a lighting unit and an image transmitting system provided with an optical lens on the distal side thereof and with an optical eyepiece or a filming unit which are used as an observation system on the proximal side thereof. Said endoscope is characterized in that an optical dividing element for complementary light polarization or for wavelength bands and the complementary polarization is inserted between the lighting unit, the image transmitting system, and the visualizing system in such a way that the light emitted by the lighting unit can be injected into the image transmitting system. The dividing element for the complementary light polarization is combined with a quarter-wave plate which is arranged before the lens on the distal side thereof.
US07662093B2 Reduced size imaging device
A reduced diameter in vivo imaging device, such as a swallowable imaging capsule. The imaging device includes a first circuit board configured for accommodating at least an image sensor, and a second circuit board, which is in electrical communication with the first circuit board and which extends substantially perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the first circuit board.
US07662091B2 Flexible borescope assembly for inspecting internal turbine components at elevated temperatures
A borescope is received within a housing. The borescope includes a flexible end portion carrying the video head and a housing includes a flexible end portion comprised of ball-socket segments and a tip for following the movement of the flexible end portion of the borescope. Cooling air is provided in an annular passage between the borescope and housing for flow about the borescope to maintain the video head temperature below its temperature limitation. Two cables maintain the ball-socket segments and tip in contact with a transition piece and with one another to enable the flexible borescope end portion to follow the movement of the directionally controlled video head.
US07662089B2 Endoscope suitable to body cavity
An endoscope for treatment suitable to the treatment in a body cavity comprises an elongated soft observing optical unit having at least an observing optical system; and a unit inserting tool having a unit inserting channel in which the observing optical unit is inserted and a treatment tool inserting channel in which a treatment tool is inserted. The unit inserting channel of the unit inserting tool has a branching portion at which the unit inserting channel is branched into a first inserting channel and a second inserting channel. An observing window which is arranged at the end opening of the first inserting channel is provided in a surface at the distal-end and an observing window which is arranged at the end opening of the second inserting channel is provided in a surface at the halfway portion. The unit inserting tool comprises an optical unit guiding port for guiding the observing optical unit and at least one treatment tool lead-in port in which a treatment tool is inserted at the proximal end portion and a treatment tool lead-out port which is communicated with the treatment tool inserting channel that extends from the treatment tool lead-in port at least in one of the surface at the distal-end and the surface at the halfway portion.
US07662082B2 Expandable brachytherapy device
A brachytherapy device for the provision of brachytherapy is disclosed. The brachytherapy device has at least one source lumen located outside a movable surface of the device. The source lumen may be secured to the movable outer surface in a manner whereby relative movement of the source lumen relative to the movable outer surface is permitted. The brachytherapy device is inserted into a body cavity. After insertion, the movable surface is moved to position the at least one source lumen closer to the tissue boundary of the cavity. One or more sources of radiation are then placed within the at least one source lumen to provide a customizable treatment. Also disclosed are methods for providing brachytherapy via body cavities.
US07662078B2 Method for creating a uniform nip pressure utilizing a compliant pressure roller
The present invention provides a method for creating uniform pressure at a nip comprising the acts of providing a stationary inner core, pivotally mounting a plurality of shoes to the stationary inner core, creating a plurality of annular chambers wherein each of the shoes occupies one of the chambers. In addition, the method further provides filling each of the chambers with a magneto-rheological fluid, surrounding the plurality of chambers, shoes, and stationary inner core with a thin, metal, rotatable shell; detecting a deformation in the shell and changing a magnetic field in at least one of the chambers to change a viscosity of the magneto-rheological fluid to correct the deformation.
US07662072B1 Hand holding type exercising device
An exercising device includes a control handle having a limit flange, a retaining ring mounted on the limit flange, a mounting seat combined with the retaining ring to limit the limit flange between the mounting seat and the retaining ring, a driven member mounted on the mounting seat, a stop member mounted on the driven member, and a weight member located between the mounting seat and the stop member. Thus, the weight member is adjustably mounted on the driven member to adjust the relative position between the weight member and the mounting seat and to adjust the damping force applied by the weight member onto a user's hand. In addition, the stop member can stop movement of the weight member to prevent the weight member from being detached from the driven member due to an excessive centrifugal force.
US07662065B1 Method and apparatus to provide daily goals in accordance with historical data
A method and apparatus for identifying a raw target exercise level for a user and applying a goal setting algorithm to adjust the raw target exercise level for the user, the adjustment made in accordance with analysis of the user's data, and displaying an adjusted target exercise level to the user, in order to achieve the raw target exercise level for the user.
US07662064B2 Personal training device using GPS data
A personal training device (10) adapted to assist a user in reaching performance goals, navigating, and accumulating performance statistics. In a preferred embodiment, the device broadly comprises a housing (10); an attachment mechanism (30); a GPS component (40); a user interface (50), including an input portion (52) and an output portion (54); a processor (60), including a timer (62) and a memory element (64); a data interface (70), including an input portion (72) and an output portion (74); an audio component (80); and a power supply (90). The device (10) is adapted to store goal information, monitor performance using GPS-derived data, and communicate performance information.
US07662055B2 Lacrosse head weight training device
The present invention relates to devices for physical training purposes and specifically to training weights for use on a lacrosse head. This weight training device for lacrosse distributes weight uniformly around the entire perimeter of a lacrosse head, is easy to attach to lacrosse heads from multiple manufacturers, is unobtrusive to be used during ball handling, and is available in multiple weight models to address the needs of beginners to professionals.
US07662051B2 Golf head
Present invention is relative to a golf head. The golf head includes a main part. The main part that is made of metal includes a body portion and a neck portion. A hitting part, which is made of metal that is harder than the main part, has a face portion and a bottom portion. The bottom portion that extrudes from the bottom of the face portion is modeled with the face portion integral whole. The hitting part connects with the body portion of the main part by the rim. The back of the face portion and the top of the bottom portion, which closes to the face portion, suspend in midair. The connective position of the body portion and the rear of the bottom portion crosses the central line of the bottom of the golf head and is partial to rear.
US07662044B2 Dual-function skate rail
An improved skate rail having the dual-function of a flat surface and a round surface in one device. The skate rail allows the skateboard rider to easily choose either the flat surface or the round surface. A locking mechanism holds the skate rail securely in either position.
US07662042B2 Adjustable video game cockpit
An adjustable video game cockpit that facilitates a number of independent adjustments to accommodate users of all sizes. The video game cockpit may include a video monitor stand and a universal video game console mount. The inclusion of the video monitor stand and universal video game console permit the cockpit to operate as a single gaming unit. The video game cockpit collapses down to a low profile for convenient relocation and storage.
US07662036B2 3-cone diffuser
3-Cone Diffuser including a central cone (1), an intermediate cone (2) and outer cone or outer frame (3) placed one above the other in a spaced apart relationships having same vertical axis (14). The central cone (1) at the back is provided with bracket (8) spot welded or brazed or rivetted directly or via an intermediate plate to the central cone to hold the centre cone which is fixed on the intermediate cone with the central opening (15) having outwardly projected flanges (16) having holes (17) to accommodate the front (18) and back (19) support of the bracket. The back support is provided with springs (9) for easy removal of the bracket, thereby enabling dismantling the central cone easily. The intermediate cone (2) on its outer flanges of the central opening (15), provided with pipe/rod (6) with spring (7) welded or brazed so as to fix the intermediate cone on the brackets (5) provided in the inner part of the outer cone enabling dismantling the intermediate cone by a slight pressing of the biasing spring (7). The outer cone (3) has a central inlet (20) with flanged portion outwardly directed (4) to connect with the ducting or damper. The inlet is adjustable as per the requirement of the ducting and the central cone is further provided with a hole (10) to adjust the aperture of the damper.
US07662035B1 High efficiency solar powered fan
Highly efficient ventilation fans for exhausting air out from underneath roofs, and for being portable in use and application. The fan can include optimized airflow blades having a twisted configuration that can move at a rotational speed operation of up to approximately 500 rpm. The approximately 15 inch diameter twisted blades can be premolded on a hub that together form a single molded unit of plastic. They can also be fabricated using metal. The unit can be mounted in an exhaust outlet having a conical diffuser on or adjacent to a roof. Alternatively, the fan can be portable for use most anywhere there is a need for ventilation and moving of air. The blades can rotate by a solar powered motor, where the blades and motor can generate up to approximately 1040 cfm while using no more than approximately 16 Watts.
US07662029B2 Casing-unfolding module for the automatic stuffing of meat products
Employed in a casing applicator (13) for stuffing of meat products which is mounted on a stuffing tube (3) through which the meat mass is displaced coming from a stuffing machine (4) toward a clipping device (5), a supporting tube (2) through which a casing (1) travels, it consists of a pair of unshirring wheels (8) which pull the previously shined casing (1) on the supporting tube (2) taking it to the end of the supporting tube (2), being complemented with a ring (9) on the external surface of which the casing slides, incorporating a robot (12) which controls the speed and working of the servo-motors associated with the unshirring wheels and actuates the pneumatic cylinders for positioning the wheels on the casing.
US07662027B2 Rotor with wear-resistant core for a power abrading or polishing tool
A power driven abrading or polishing tool is provided that includes a motor having a rotor; a carrier part having a shaft and a key extending from the shaft; and an abrading or polishing head attached to the carrier part. The rotor includes an outer body of a first material and a core of a second material having a resistance to wear greater than the first material. The core includes an inner passage with a keyway which receives the key on the shaft of the carrier part such that a rotation of the rotor is transmitted to the carrier part and the head.
US07662025B2 Polishing apparatus including separate retainer rings
A polishing apparatus includes a polishing pad for polishing a wafer and a polishing head for holding the wafer. The polishing head includes a retainer ring, a membrane sheet, and a head body. The retainer ring retains the wafer in a horizontal direction. The membrane sheet depresses the wafer to the polishing pad. The head body supports the retainer ring and the membrane sheet. The retainer ring includes a fixed retainer ring and a released retainer ring. The released retainer ring is interposed between the inner periphery of the fixed retainer ring and the periphery of the wafer to retain the wafer in the horizontal direction.
US07662022B2 Polishing pad, platen, method of monitoring, method of manufacturing, and method of detecting
A polishing pad, platen, method of monitoring, method of manufacturing, and method of detecting using a pseudo window area, where the pseudo window area has a thickness less than a thickness of a polishing layer and a thickness greater than zero.
US07662017B2 Toy vehicle
A toy vehicle comprises a lift mechanism which allows the toy vehicle to be lifted from a support surface in a lifting motion and roll end over end over end. The lift mechanism includes a lift arm pivotally mounted to a housing of the toy vehicle. A lift arm actuating motor is coupled to a lift arm drive screw that is in threaded engagement with a lift arm drive nut. A strut is coupled between the drive nut and the lift arm. In operation, the lift arm actuating motor drives the lift arm drive screw and causes the lift arm drive nut to drive the strut and move the lift arm into an extended position, causing the lift arm to engage a support surface to lift the toy vehicle. In the extended position, the toy vehicle is sufficiently rounded to permit the vehicle to roll end over end over end.
US07662012B2 Throwable toy having spring assisted motion
A throwable device consisting of a generally tube-shaped body having a baffle defined on one end of the body, wherein the baffle defines an opening therein restricting the flow of air through the tube-shaped body, thereby providing aerodynamic stability to the device. The body of the device also has a spring integral therewith, which allows the compression of the body of the device. The device is propelled away from the thrower by holding the device in a compressed position with both hands and propelling the device away from the body of the thrower in a motion similar to a two-handed basketball pass, with a combination of the throwing force and the decompression of the spring determining the speed, distance and trajectory of the device.
US07662011B2 Method of sealing an organic el display provided with an adhesive layer over a peripheral insulating layer
A structure of a display device in which water is prevented from passing through the side faces of a display device using an organic light-emitting element and a gap between substrates is made uniform. On the first substrate having the light-emitting element provided thereon, the thicknesses of the layers deposited in the peripheral area, the pixel portion and the driving circuit portion are equalized with each other. Furthermore, an adhesive is provided as thin as possible in the peripheral area of the first substrate so as to bond a second substrate to the first substrate. As a result, the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate can be made uniform throughout the peripheral area of the first substrate, the pixel portion and the driving circuit. Moreover, since a protective film overlying the organic light-emitting element is also provided on the side faces of the second insulating film, water is prevented from entering the display device through its side faces.
US07661992B1 Safe power plugging mechanism
A safe power plugging mechanism is configured on a power base with a pivot joint, wherein a male plug with conducting plates at its inside is configured on the pivot joint and is electrically connected with the pivot joint. A half-tile-shaped insulating tile configured outside the pivot joint axis is integral with the enclosure of the male plug, and partly encloses the pivot joint axis. A power connection plate is configured inside the power base to electrically connect the conducting plates of the male plug when the male plug is turned to a specific angle. The safe plugging mechanism also includes a female plug, which is configured at its inside with two conducting poles fitting the conducting plates of the male plug. The safe power plugging mechanism adopts a method of electric connection through a pivot joint axis which maintains connection at a specific angle and insulation at other angles.
US07661990B1 Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes a dielectric housing, a plurality of terminals and a shield. The dielectric housing defines a plurality of terminal grooves therein for receiving the terminals. At least one recess is formed in an outer surface of the dielectric housing. The shield has a plurality of sidewalls to define a receiving space therebetween for receiving the dielectric housing therein. At least one of the sidewalls is punched inward at a portion corresponding to the recess of the dielectric housing to form a retaining portion restricted in the recess after the dielectric housing is mounted in the receiving space. The retaining portion is restricted in the recess for fixing the dielectric housing inside the shield. The depth of the recess and the retaining portion restricted in the recess is not limited by the depth of the material of the shield. The dielectric housing is fixed in the shield firmly.
US07661958B2 Methods and apparatus for interior design component selection
Apparatus and methods are provided for interior design component selection. An apparatus for presenting a plurality of design components to a user has a first plurality of first design component samples and a second plurality of second design component samples. A binding mechanism is adapted to bind the first plurality of the first design component samples adjacent the second plurality of the second design component samples so that at least one design component sample of the first plurality and the second plurality can be viewed together. The binding mechanism is also configured to permit at least one design component sample of each of the first and the second pluralities to be moved about the binding mechanism.
US07661957B2 Method for reversible fixing of a tool to an implantable element and device for carrying out such a fixing method
A method for reversible fixing of a tool to an implantable element, when fitting of a dental prosthesis is performed, comprises, in a first step, reversible fixing of a hollow intermediate connecting part onto an external complementary part of the tool. In a second step, the method consists in placing the tool equipped with the intermediate connecting part, on the end of the implantable element until the intermediate connecting part clips onto an external complementary part of the implantable element. The hollow intermediate connecting part is preferably fixed by clipping or screwing onto the external complementary part of the tool.
US07661941B2 Machine with vibratable section
A machine for treating or processing a conveyable material, particularly a free-flowing or pasty material or a bulk material comprises at least one passage section having at least one passage through which the conveyable material, which is to be treated or processed, can be conveyed along a direction of conveyance. The at least one passage section forms at least one partial area of a channel of the machine and is mounted so that it can move in relation to this channel. This at least one passage section is coupled to at least one source, which is provided for effecting oscillations and by means of which the passage section can be set in mechanical oscillatory motion with regard to the channel of the machine.
US07661937B2 Axial piston machine and a control plate for an axial piston engine
The invention relates to a control plate (20) for an axial piston engine (1). The inventive control plate (20) comprises a through hole (38) and a radial internal edge of said control plate (20) embodied in the form of a centering surface (29) which centers the control plate (20) to a centering body (7) arranged on the side of a bearing surface. Said centering surface (29) consists of several partial surfaces (29.1, 29.2, 29.3) formed on segments (43.1, 43.2, 43.3) of the internal edge (47) of the control plate (20) radially extending towards the internal space of said through hole (38). The segments (43.1, 43.2, 43.3) are divided by cuts (36.1, 36.2, 36.3).
US07661920B2 System and a method for manipulating a cassette used in storage by means of a transfer device
A method and a storage and manipulation system for manipulating and transferring cassettes used for storage. The system includes a rack for storing cassettes. The rack includes supports on which the cassette rests. A transfer device includes a slide, onto which the cassette can be transferred. The slide includes a lifting and lowering movement. The transfer device also includes grippers that grip the cassette and moving it onto or off the slide. The slide can be placed underneath the front part of the cassette and, by a lifting movement, elevate the front part of the cassette such that the cassette can be transferred along the support onto the slide. A rear part of the cassette is simultaneously supported by the support. The slide can also lower the front part of the cassette onto the support when the rear part of the cassette is transferred onto the support of the rack.
US07661919B2 Discontinuous conveyor system
The present invention generally comprises a transport system for transporting containers throughout a fabrication facility, and more specifically through a tool bay in the fabrication facility. The present invention generally includes a first container transport system for transporting a container from an interbay conveyor towards the first tool bay, a second container transport system for moving a container away from the first tool bay and a tool loading device to move containers between the first and second container transport systems and a load port. A merged return conveyor for transporting a container between the second container transport system and the interbay conveyor may also be included.
US07661916B2 Fastener assembly
A fastener assembly adapted for providing adjustment between at least two members. A bolt includes a head, a shank axially extending from the head, and a circumferentially uninterrupted threaded portion axially extending from the shank. A first cam washer is fixed against rotation to the shank of the bolt in a position that is adjacent with respect to the head of the bolt. A second cam washer is fixed against rotation to the shank of the bolt in a position that is adjacent with respect to the threaded portion of the bolt. A threaded portion of a nut is threaded to the threaded portion of the bolt, and a skirt portion of the nut displaces the second cam washer as the nut is torqued down on the bolt.
US07661913B2 Hole saw with depth stop
A hole saw includes a depth stop for limiting the depth of penetration of the hole saw into a workpiece. The blade of the hole saw includes a plurality of slots, one of which is used to receive the depth stop. The depth stop is mounted to the blade by positioning a portion of the depth stop within the slot and sliding the depth stop from an unsecured position to a secured position. Once in the secured position, a locking member is moved within the depth stop to secure the depth stop in place. In use, the blade is advanced through the workpiece until the depth stop contacts the proximal surface of the workpiece.
US07661912B2 Tool having damper
Disclosed herein is the structure of a damper that is capable of improving the degree of freedom in design to optimize the damping characteristics of the damper and is capable of allowing the damper to be easily optimized and manufactured for a wide variety of dynamic stiffness characteristics of a tool body, and a manufacturing method using the same. A plurality of ring-shaped elastic members are disposed at opposite ends of a weight part. The weight part is connected to the tool body via the elastic members. Consequently, the weight part is moved relative to the tool body. The plurality of elastic members are mounted while spacers are disposed between the elastic members, and the spacers are moved with respect to the weight part in the axial direction thereof. A viscous fluid is filled in the region surrounded by the outer circumferential surfaces of the spacers, the elastic members, and the inner surface of a hollow part of the tool body. Consequently, it is possible to damp the relative movement of the weight part with respect to the tool body.
US07661909B2 Method and a device for powdering, and a use thereof in a powdering system, in particular in an installation for detecting surface defects by sweating
Gas under pressure is admitted through an orifice formed in the bottom portion of a tank of substance in powder form, and is guided along an internal tube connected to the admission orifice, the tube passes through the powder stored in the tank and entrains powder through openings formed in the wall of the tube, the powder being extracted in the form of a gas-and-powder flow through an outlet at the top portion of the tank. The gas-and-powder mixture traveling along the internal tube is guided to the top portion of the tank where it is directed substantially towards a side wall of the tank so as to set up a gas-and-powder flow traveling through the volume situated in the tank above the powder stored in the tank, prior to the gas-and-powder flow being extracted through the outlet. The gas-and-powder flow can be taken to one or more powdering nozzles, e.g. in a system for powdering a developer in an installation for detecting surface defects by sweating.
US07661908B1 Trench shield with adjustable vertical panels
A trench shoring or shielding unit, for securing the sidewalls of an earthen formation, trench or excavation, includes a plurality of adjustable, vertically arranged panels forming a protective wall. As a shielding unit, two opposing protective walls are spaced and attached by at least two spreader bars. Each adjustable panel has opposing top and bottom ends, a C-shaped channel traversing the panel's height, and opposing side edges that inter-engage with the side edges of adjacent panels. Further, each adjustable panel is attached to at least one of two or more whalers along an inner surface of the panel by a clamp-like fastener having a bolt passing through the whaler and into the C-shaped channel of the corresponding panel. The inter-engaging side edges are segmented, preferable concave and convex, so that adjacent adjustable panels inter-engage to resist lateral torque or twisting that may be caused by shifting or collapse of the excavation.
US07661904B2 Water conservation and distribution system
Rainwater collected from roof gutters is poured into the vertical portion of an “ell” shaped perforated drainage pipe. The horizontal leaching pipe portion of the drainage pipe discharges the rainwater into a catch basin. Water from the catch basin flows into another perforated leaching pipe that is set in the bottom of a trench. In turn, the lower part of the trench is filled with crushed rock to a height of about three quarters of the trench depth. A water impermeable barrier of asphalt shingles or thirty pound asphalt roofing felt is placed over the top of the crushed rock and the balance of the trench is filled with soil up to the ground level.
US07661903B1 Low-pressure dosing system for sewage disposal and associated methods
A drain field assembly includes a distribution pipe for receiving liquid effluent that has a plurality of holes through the wall. A plurality of generally cylindrical void pipes receive effluent from the distribution pipe, retaining the effluent for a time, and distributing the effluent to an area of soil. The void pipes are positioned in a trench atop one another so that the cylindrical axis of a bottom void pipe is substantially vertically aligned with the cylindrical axis of a top void pipe, and the cylindrical axis of a middle void pipe is offset from those of the bottom and top void pipes. A distribution pipe is positioned within the top void pipe. In some embodiments a second distribution pipe can be positioned atop the top void pipe. A protective soil-impervious, liquid-permeable sheeting is placed atop and beneath the assembly for protecting the holes pipes from intrusion by soil.
US07661896B2 Therapeutic writing instrument devices and methods
The invention provides systems and methods for a writing instrument that can be manipulated into an infinite number of shapes and configurations. The invention can be applied to relieve minor stress as well as strengthen hand muscles, rehabilitate finger and joint movement, and improve overall range of hand motion. A textured coating can be applied to the surface of each segment that gives the writing instrument a unique feel, thereby creating a pleasant sensation and feel to the hands and fingers. Segments can operate as a holder for a writing instrument body, and similarly can be arranged to provide a creative sculpture. Segments can be removed as desired by the user.
US07661892B2 Image-capturing device, light adjustment mechanism, and light control blade
An image-capturing device includes a lens barrel having therein an optical image-capturing system; a light control blade which opens and closes an optical path of the optical image-capturing system so as to control the amount of light entering the system; and a base body having a transmission hole through which the optical path extends and supporting the light control blade in a movable manner. The light control blade includes a multilayer laminate including a base material composed of a film and serving as a substrate, and at least a metallic layer disposed on the base material; and a light-blocking layer disposed on a first section of the multilayer laminate. A second section of the multilayer laminate not having the light-blocking layer disposed thereon defines a light adjustment filter for adjusting the amount of incident light. The first section having the light-blocking layer defines a light-blocking portion for blocking incident light.
US07661886B2 Apparatus for electro-optical device connection
An optical fiber connector for releasably coupling an optical fiber to an electro-optical module is disclosed. The optical fiber connector includes a housing, a strain relief, a fiber retention clip, and a pair of latching arms. The housing includes a housing bore defined through at least a portion of the housing and adapted to accommodate the exterior diameter of a typical optical fiber. The optical fiber extending through the strain relief and into the housing bore, terminating at an end of the housing. The optical fiber is retained by the housing by the utilization of the fiber retention clip. The latching arms are arranged to releasable attach the connector to an electro-optical device such that the optical fiber and an optical lens disposed in the electro-optical device are aligned.
US07661880B2 Radiographic sensor positioning system
The present invention is a radiographic sensor positioning system. In particular, the present invention is directed to a system for positioning a digital dental radiographic sensor in a patient's mouth and for positioning a radiographic device, e.g. a gamma ray source, to interact with the sensor. A preferred embodiment of the dental radiography positioning system comprises an aimer ring that slides onto an extension bar in one of several positions. The extension bar is preferably curved with a flared end and a tined end. The extension bar inserts into a bite block at one of three slots. The bite block has a bite surface above the three slots and a preferably tapered sensor holder slot with two stabilizer posts. A sensor holder is inserted into the sensor holder slot. For posterior images, the stabilizer posts can stabilize the sensor.
US07661878B1 On-chip temperature sensor for an integrated circuit
An on-chip temperature sensor for an integrated circuit includes in one embodiment a voltage/current source circuit that provides a reference voltage and a current. A sense signal circuit receives the current of the voltage/current source circuit and provides a sense signal corresponding to the temperature of the integrated circuit. A reference signal receives the reference voltage of the voltage/current source circuit and provides a reference signal having a selectable value. A comparator compares the sense signal of the sense signal circuit to the selectable reference signal of the reference signal circuit and provides a temperature sensor output signal.
US07661876B2 Infrared target temperature correction system and method
Infrared Ir Thermometer Calibration Systems and Methods are Disclosed in which the temperature of an IR thermometer calibration system is controlled such that radiation emitted by a target at a given input temperature is equal to the radiation emitted by a graybody heated to the input temperature and having an emissivity equal to an emissivity setting of an IR thermometer to be calibrated using the IR thermometer calibration system.
US07661875B2 Balance for timepiece movement
The balance comprising a felloe (3), arms (4) connecting the felloe (3) to the balance staff and inertia blocks (11) is characterized in that the felloe (3) includes studs (7) in its inner surface, a threaded hole (9) into which said inertia blocks (11) are screwed from the inside, without passing beyond the external surface of the felloe (3), passing through said felloe (3) and said studs (7).
US07661869B2 Backlight assembly and display device having the same
A backlight assembly includes a light-generating unit, a heat-radiation member, a first receiving container, and a second receiving container. The heat-radiation member is disposed under the light-generating unit and radiates heat generated by the light-generating unit. The first receiving container is composed of a bottom portion and side portion extended from the bottom portion. The first receiving container has an opening formed through partial removal of the bottom portion so that the heat-radiation member received inside is exposed. The second receiving container is disposed under the first receiving container. An air layer is formed in between the first and second receiving containers.
US07661868B2 Diffuser sheet for compensating for chromatic dispersion and illumination apparatus employing the same
A diffuser sheet which compensates for chromatic dispersion generated in a hologram light guide plate, and an illumination apparatus employing the diffuser sheet are provided. The diffuser sheet includes a plate type light-transmissive substrate and a light diffusion layer disposed on a light emission surface of the light-emission substrate. A light-incident surface of the light-transmissive substrate has declined surfaces and flat surfaces which are alternatively and repeatedly formed thereon. The declined surfaces are declined at a predetermined angle.
US07661866B2 Lighting system and display apparatus using the same
The present invention provides a low-cost and highly heat-radiating lighting system and a display apparatus using the same. The lighting system has a plurality of packages, each containing LEDs, lead frames and a transparent sealing material, a heat-radiating substrate and an adhesive layer adapted to bond the packages and the heat-radiating substrate. The lead frames are 0.1 mm or more in thickness. Further, the area of the surfaces of the heat-radiating substrate and the lead frames bonded together via the adhesive layer is 70 mm2 per 1 mm2 area of the LEDs. The display apparatus of the present invention uses the lighting system as the backlight thereof.
US07661864B2 Back-light unit having prism sheet including reflective elements with different curvature surfaces, a back-light unit and LCD device using said back-light unit
A prism sheet changes a direction of light propagation by reflecting light launched with an intensity distribution of a predetermined angle range wherein: a reflective surface for perfect reflection of light includes a higher order surface constructed by at least a small curvature surface and a surface different from the small curvature surface.
US07661857B2 Vehicle light unit with shadow casting feature
The light unit includes a lens, shadow-forming surface, and a shadow casting surface. Outside light entering the light unit is at least partially blocked by the shadow casting surface so as to cast a shadow on the shadow-forming surface. The shadow casting surface may be embedded within or on a surface of the lens or otherwise supported above the shadow forming surface. The shadow casting design is preferably spaced from the shadow-forming surface.
US07661847B2 Formed lighting fixture having a fibrous layer
An improved formed lighting fixture having a frame, a light source, a cover layer coupled to the frame, and a fibrous layer coupled to the cover layer, in which the frame is formed by gathering a plurality of rods and profiled in a specific contour, the light source is configured to provide light from inside the frame and out through the cover layer onto the fibrous layer. The fibrous layer is configured to provide decorative and functional aspects to the lighting fixture, including, in some embodiments, a contoured or fur-like appearance, or where the fibrous layer has light-diffusive properties, a dazzling glow effect when light from the light source is diffused.
US07661827B2 Image processing system, projector, computer-readable storage medium, and image processing method
A projector is configured of a difference image generation section that generates a difference image between an all-white first calibration image and a second calibration image which includes an image having features at the center and periphery thereof, a center reference position detection section that detects a reference position of a center block area in the difference image, a peripheral reference position detection section that detects a reference position of a peripheral block area, and a projection area information generation section that generates projection area information indicating a position of a projection area, based on those reference positions.
US07661824B2 Light source module air flow cooling
A light source module includes a lamp assembly, at least one temperature sensor for monitoring a temperature of the lamp assembly, and a processor coupled to the temperature sensor and the lamp assembly, the processor being configured to operate the lamp assembly at a reduced power level when the temperature is above a first temperature threshold.
US07661819B2 Method and a device for automatically preparing an ophthalmic lens for mounting
A method includes the following steps: a step of automatically measuring centering characteristics of the lens; a step of blocking the lens on a cutting-out element; a step of cutting out the lens; and a plurality of steps of acquiring axial coordinates of acquired points of a face of the lens, including a first acquisition of axial coordinates of the lens prior to blocking the lens on the cutting-out element, and a second step of acquisition by feeling that is subsequent to the blocking step.
US07661818B2 Clip-on light apparatus
A clip-on light apparatus is provided having a polyaxial coupling joint between a light module and frame to permit the light module to be pivoted about a plurality of axes relative to the frame for directing light in a plurality of directions. The polyaxial coupling joint preferably permits pivoting of the light module about at least two orthogonal axes. In one form, the light module is mounted to a pivot shaft about which the module can be turned with the pivot shaft itself being pivoted along one of the two orthogonal pivot axes.
US07661817B2 Integrated audio eyewear
Eyewear includes a lens supporting frame along with temple pieces extending therefrom with at least one of the temple pieces including an open sided chamber sized for receiving an audio unit having communication socket disposed at one end of the audio unit. The open side enables access to the controls disposed on one side of the audio unit. A cover is provided for moving the audio unit within the chamber in order to engage the socket with a plug and removably affixed the audio unit within the temple piece chamber.
US07661814B2 Hand held micro-fluid ejection devices configured to block printing based on printer orientation and method of blocking
A hand-held micro-fluid ejection device for ejecting a fluid onto a substrate surface in a plurality of physical orientations between the ejection device and a substrate surface, and methods for controlling the geometric accuracy of printing using a hand-held printing apparatus. Various spatial and dynamic orientations of the ejection device are measured, such as rotation angle, yaw angle, and velocity and acceleration vectors. Threshold limits are established for the orientations and printing is disabled if the measured values exceed the threshold limits.
US07661808B2 Image recording method and image recording apparatus employing the same
Disclosed in an image recording method comprising the steps of ejecting a first water-based UV curable color ink onto a non-absorptive substrate to form a first color ink image on the non-absorptive substrate, exposing to ultraviolet rays the first color ink image to form a first UV cured color ink image, ejecting a second water-based UV curable color ink onto the first UV cured color ink image to form a second color ink image on the first UV cured color ink image, and exposing to ultraviolet rays the second color ink image to form a second UV cured color ink image, wherein a static contact angle of the second water-based UV curable color ink to the first UV cured color ink image is in the range of from 10 to 50°.
US07661805B2 Ink-jet printer
An ink-jet printer including: a buffer tank; an air-discharging valve device; and a valve opening-and-closing device. The ink-jet printer further includes an operating member which is arranged to be interposed between the air-discharging valve device and the valve opening-and-closing device. The valve opening-and-closing device operates the air-discharging valve device via the operating member, such that the air-discharging valve device is placed in a valve-open state and a valve-close state. The ink-jet printer is arranged to execute a first discharge operation in which the air separated from the ink in the buffer tank is discharged while placing the air-discharging valve device in the valve open state, and a second discharge operation in which an inside of the air-discharging valve device is exhausted to remove the ink remaining in the air-discharging valve device while placing the air-discharging valve device in the valve-close state.
US07661803B2 Inkjet printhead with controlled de-prime
An inkjet printer that has an ink supply, an ink manifold in fluid communication with the ink supply, a printhead IC with and array of ink ejection nozzles mounted to the ink manifold, a pump in fluid communication with the ink manifold and, a gas inlet that can be opened to establish fluid communication between the ink manifold and a supply of gas, and can be closed to form a gas tight seal. The ink manifold can be primed using the pump by closing the gas inlet, and de-primed when the gas inlet is open. This allows the printhead to be deprimed during storage and transport and it allows the printhead IC to be cleaned by a foam formed by air forced through the ink election nozzles.
US07661802B2 Liquid droplet spraying apparatus
A liquid droplet spraying apparatus includes: a plurality of nozzles, a plurality of pressure chambers respectively connected to the nozzles, the pressure chambers each configured to store liquid to which spraying pressure is selectively applied, a common ink chamber that stores the liquid supplied to the pressure chambers; and narrowing portions coupled between the common liquid chamber and the plurality of pressure chambers to supply the liquid therethrough. The narrowing portions are larger in a pressure loss than the common liquid chamber and the plurality of pressure chambers. A ratio of a length of each of the narrowing portions in a liquid flowing direction with respect to a length of corresponding one of the pressure chambers in the liquid flowing direction is 0.34 or more, wherein the liquid flowing direction corresponds to a direction in which the liquid flows through the narrowing portions.
US07661801B2 Printer including an ink-jet recording head
An ink-jet recording head having no piezoelectric element in a part where no piezoelectric element is required and including an individual electrode lead-out part having such a cross section that allows smooth power supply is provided.The ink-jet recording head includes an individual electrode having an individual electrode main body formed at a position corresponding to an ink chamber and an individual electrode lead-out part for supplying power, a piezoelectric element formed to contact the individual electrode, and a diaphragm formed to contact the piezoelectric element. The individual electrode lead-out part is connected to the individual electrode main body from a position offset from a face including an electrode face of the individual electrode main body, and the piezoelectric element is formed into a shape corresponding to the individual electrode main body.
US07661799B2 Recording apparatus and method for producing the same
A circuit element which ensures an operation of a driving IC chip and a recording element, is mounted between a power supply and the driving IC chip of a flexible flat cable. Since the circuit element is arranged so as to avoid a bending portion of the flexible flat cable, even in a case of mounting the circuit element near the driving IC chip, it is possible to prevent the circuit elements from being peeled off, and to let the driving IC chip and the heat sink make a close contact assuredly.
US07661791B2 Apparatus and method for performing mechanical printhead alignment in an imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus includes a printhead carrier configured for mounting a printhead cartridge and a cam rotatably coupled to the printhead carrier, the cam having a cam surface positioned opposite the datum pad, the cam surface being positioned for direct contact with the datum pad. A rotation of the cam causes the cam surface to translate the printhead along the media feed direction.
US07661788B2 Jetting timing determining method, liquid-droplet jetting method and ink-jet printer
In a liquid-droplet jetting apparatus such as an ink-jet head having a plurality of nozzle rows formed therein, an ink is jetted from one of the nozzle rows and the ink is jetted from another nozzle row concurrently while changing delay times by each of which a jetting timing for the nozzle row is delayed with respect to a jetting timing for the another nozzle row. Then, an optimum image is determined among images formed by the ink jetted from these two nozzle rows, and a delay time in the jetting timings is extracted, among the delay times, which correspond to the optimum image. By determining the delay time in the nozzle rows in such a manner, the variation in jetting characteristics is small in the nozzle rows, thereby realizing satisfactory reproducibility of image.
US07661785B2 Ink jet head driving method and apparatus
In an ink jet head driving method for applying a drive pulse to an actuator ACT to change capacities of a plurality of pressure chambers in which ink has been filled, ejecting an ink droplet from a nozzle formed in communication with the pressure chamber to print onto a printing medium, and moreover, controlling the number of ink droplets ejected according to the number of drive pulses to carry out gradation printing, a control is made such that, in the case where the number of ink droplets is small, a boost pulse Pb for amplifying a pressure vibration of the pressure chamber is applied prior to a drive pulse for ejecting a first ink droplet, and in the case where the number of ink droplets is large, applying of the boost pulse Pb is disabled.
US07661779B2 Printing and display device incorporating at least two printheads
A printer configured to receive documents to be printed from a computer system, the printer including an interface, and being configured to: receive, via the interface, input from a user indicative of a print command; send, from the printer to the c A printing and display device comprising: a flat panel display for displaying images from a computer; and a printer, the printer including at least two the printheads, the printheads being disposed on either side of a path through which print media is fed for printing, thereby enabling substantially simultaneous printing of both sides of the print media.
US07661777B2 Dolly dropdown box drawer for a tow truck
A dolly dropdown box drawer is disposed below a bed or a frame of a tow truck along each side of the truck near a driver's cab for the storage and safeguarding of a pair of towing dollies with one on each side of the truck. Each drawer pulls out laterally and then tilts and arcs downward at the front end of the drawer to provide ready and convenient access to a towing dolly at a level below waist level of a tow truck driver who desires to use the towing dolly during a recovery operation conducted regarding a motor vehicle.
US07661774B2 Track comprised or internal and external links
In a track with a rotatable bushing which is brought into engagement with a sprocket of a track-type vehicle, it is intended that strength is enhanced rationally by link functionality sharing and by combination of such assigned functional tasks for achieving further improvements in rotatable bushing function. To this end, a first bolt insertion hole provided in a track shoe mount surface of an external link and a second bolt insertion hole provided in a track shoe mount surface of an internal link are arranged on the same straight line, and a straight line connecting the first bolt insertion hole and the second bolt insertion hole is situated at a position more interior than a contact plane of the external link and internal link.
US07661770B2 Pneumatic emergency brake assurance module
A pneumatic emergency brake assurance module comprises a high capacity transfer valve connected in a first position to the output of the variable load relay valve and in a second position connected to a source of emergency braking air pressure. A timing reservoir is in communication with the pilot port of the high capacity transfer valve. A check valve/choke circuit provides parallel connections between a double check valve and the output of the variable load relay valve such that flow from the variable load relay valve passes through a charging choke and opposite flow to the variable load relay valves passes through a dissipation choke.
US07661761B1 Motorcycle backrest assembly
A motorcycle backrest assembly includes a pair of side plates each for mounting on either the left or right side of the motorcycle's rear fender. A receiver is securable to each plate for adjustably receiving one of two side rails depending from a backrest. Each receiver is angularly adjustable to vary the position of the backrest. The entire assembly can be quickly removed from the motorcycle and stored, if desired.
US07661760B2 Device for vehicle seat
When a seat back in a forwardly folded state is raised to a predetermined raised state by activating an electric motor by turning on a switch, the electric motor is immediately stopped even if the switch is still turned on, and the seat back is retained in the raised state. There are provided a locking member which operates to retain the seat back in the raised state when the seat back is in the predetermined raised state and a lever which turns in association with the operation of the locking member. The lever turns on another switch to open a drive circuit for the electric motor.
US07661758B1 Head restraint support component for a vehicle seat
A vehicle seat assembly is provided with a seat frame adapted to be mounted within a vehicle. The seat frame has a tubular upper cross member. A bracket member is mounted to the tubular upper cross member of the seat frame. The bracket member has a pair of fulcrum bushings integrally formed therein. The bracket member is attached to onto the tubular upper cross member by an interference fit. At least one support rod is sized to be received within each of the pair of fulcrum bushings. At least one head restraint post is sized to be received within the at least one support rod. An active head restraint is mounted to the at least one head restraint post.
US07661756B2 Bicycle saddle assembly
A bicycle saddle assembly comprises a saddle body including a wider posterior portion for supporting bicycle rider's buttocks and a narrow anterior portion which fits between bicycle rider's crotch. The saddle body further includes a concave portion provided between the wider posterior portion and the narrow anterior portion. The saddle body has a highest area located on the wider posterior portion and a lowest area located on the concave portion to define an opening space with a sufficient depth above the concave portion so that, as riding, bicycle riders can arrange his perineal areas comfortably on the saddle body to relieve pressure placed thereon and dissipate heat generated therein.
US07661755B2 Flatbed trailer sidewall panels
A wall panel for use in a flatbed trailer sidewall system includes a frame and a waterproof fabric sheet. The frame may include a bore therein to receive an enlarged edge profile of the fabric sheet. The frame of the wall panel is generally rectangular in shape and consists of a top rail, a bottom rail, and two opposing side rails extending between the top rail and bottom rail. The rails may be secured to one another using one or both of a corner bracket and a threaded insert and threaded fastener assembly.
US07661750B2 Bow for a convertible vehicle
The invention relates to a convertible vehicle (1) comprising a roof (2) provided with a flexible roof covering (4) in at least certain areas, said roof covering being gripped from below by one or several bows (6, 7) which are arranged in a transversal manner in relation to the direction of travel (F). At least one bow (6;7) is made of several pieces and comprises a central area (9) which is connected to lateral fittings (10) and is configured in such a manner that securing means are provided (16) in order to connect the central part (9) and the fittings (10). When the roof is closed, said securing means are arranged in the region of the respective bow (6, 7) and are at least approximately parallel to the extension plane (17;18) of the external roof covering (4).
US07661748B2 Apparatus for preventing transfer of odors from a vehicle to a hunter
An apparatus for preventing transfer of odors from a vehicle to a hunter from a self propelled vehicle has at least one seat, a floorboard and a steering wheel. A cover for the seat, and/or floor mat and/or steering wheel has a vapor barrier to prevent odors from the seat, and/or floor mat and/or steering wheel from passing therethrough, and a material such as silk or RAYON® disposed on top of the vapor barrier of the seat, and/or floor mat and/or steering wheel which is free of any substance foreign to it that would have an odor associated with it, or it can be treated with an odor absorbing substance, or it can be treated with a “cover scent” such as acorn or earth/dirt scent which would be transferred to the hunter's hands and/or clothing and/or boots. Alternatively, a scent absorbing layer, such as a SCENT LOK® layer, can be disposed under the vapor barrier.
US07661743B2 Bezel retainer clip
The invention concerns a vehicle having a closure with a handle surrounded by a handle bezel, and a method of assembling the handle bezel to the closure. The handle bezel, which may contain a key cylinder, mounts around the handle and includes a retainer bracket having a retaining clip. The retaining clip includes fastener retention tabs that engage with a fastener extending from an inner surface of the closure. The fastener retention tabs allow the handle bezel to be installed from the outer surface of the closure without requiring extra fastener installation. But the handle bezel cannot be removed from the closure without access to the inner surface of the closure.
US07661738B2 Radiation detection unit for mounting a radiation sensor to a container crane
A radiation detection unit includes a housing and isolators unitarily constructed from mechanical energy absorbent material. The housing is attached rigidly to a structure and its major dimensions are selected to exceed corresponding major dimensions of a radiation sensor. The isolators have a body portion and projections extending outwardly therefrom. The body portion engages the radiation detection sensor proximal a respective one of its radiation collection end and its interface end. The projections are disposed intermediate the body portion and an interior surface of the housing and have a distal end contacting the interior surface to carry the radiation sensor in a three dimensional spaced apart relationship to the interior surface. The length of the projections is selected to attenuate substantially mechanical energy that is induced at the distal end and propagates along the length of each projection prior to the propagated energy being incident upon the body portion.
US07661735B2 Assembly consisting of a bumper skin and of a shock absorber
The invention relates to an assembly comprising a vehicle bumper skin and a channel-section bumper impact absorber, the absorber being made of thermoplastic material and comprising a web and two flanges, each having a free longitudinal edge and an opposite longitudinal edge that is connected to the web, the flanges and the web defining a longitudinal channel, in which the bumper skin and absorber are connected together in such a manner that the concave side of the absorber faces towards the bumper skin.
US07661731B2 Pipe ring apparatus
An apparatus according to which the apparatus includes a pair of connected arcuate members for clamping around a pipe, with each arcuate member including at least one protrusion. The arcuate members have a first material hardness and at least a portion of the at least one protrusion has a second material hardness that is greater than the first material hardness so that the portion penetratingly engages the pipe when the arcuate members are clamped around the pipe.
US07661726B2 Internal release connector and method
A tubing connection release system. The system includes, a male connector having a profile at one end thereof and receptive to a tubular at the other end thereof, a female connector receptive to a tubular at one end thereof and receptive to the male connector at the other end thereof. The system further includes, a sleeve disposed radially inwardly of the female connector, and a collet having at least one deflectable collet finger disposed radially inwardly of the sleeve. The collet is biased to a position within the female connector whereat the at least one collet finger is supported against radially outward deflection. The collet is further movable by the push-in connector against the bias to a position where the at least one collet finger is radially outwardly unsupported such that the profiled end of the male connector is movable into engagement with the at least one collet finger.
US07661716B2 Securing arrangement of loose elements in draft arrangement on work surface of hand portable object
An apparatus for securely holding and protecting a layout of elements includes a portfolio having a first cover and a first overlay. The first overlay and the first cover are releasably cohered together, preferably utilizing magnetic forces. A loose arrangement of elements can be secured to a work surface of the first cover using the first overlay for safe storage and transport. The apparatus is used in rubber stamping design, stained-glass design, and quilting design.
US07661710B2 Blind member for vehicle, and gap-closing structure including blind member
The present invention provides a blind member for a vehicle, which is used in a steering device provided with a tilting structure that can adjust a position of a steering wheel in a vertical direction, and closes a gap between: an opening in an instrument panel provided on a driver's seat side and in which a steering column is inserted; and a column cover which surrounds around the steering column. The blind member includes: a blind main body which is arranged next to the column cover; and a hinge portion which attaches the blind main body to an edge of the opening in the instrument panel such that the blind main body can swing in the vertical direction.
US07661708B2 Gas bag module
A gas bag module has a gas bag whose wall, in a first state of the gas bag, has at least one pleat that is formed in that opposite sections of the wall lie against each other. The gas bag module further has a holder that holds the opposite sections together and affixes the pleat. The holder can be actively released in response to a signal, as a result of which the gas bag reaches a second state in which the pleat is opened.
US07661704B2 Combination grab handle and airbag bracket
A dual function mounting bracket is affixed to a hydroformed roof side rail to allow the connecting brackets to be located at the same position as previously known despite the use of a hydroformed roof side rail frame member that has a substantially different shape and configuration. The dual function mounting bracket has a first mounting surface projecting upwardly from a second mounting surface to provide support for a grab handle connecting bracket. The second mounting surface provides support for the connecting bracket of a side curtain air bag. The second mounting surface is also configured with a pair of side tabs and a front tab for welding the mounting bracket to a hydroformed roof side rail. The grab handle spans between the mounting bracket and a spaced apart sole function mounting bracket. A bead between the first and second mounting surfaces on the dual function mounting bracket provides stiffness.
US07661701B2 Curtain airbag device
According to the inflation of the curtain, its tip portion moves away from the first window side and comes to engages with support portions. At the same time, a tether moves from the side of the window side to the support portions and comes to be positioned across the window portion. Thereby, the window portion can be properly covered by the curtain airbag.
US07661690B2 Mechanical advantage drive system for cycles
A cycle with a mechanical advantage drive and leaning steering system comprises a frame with at least one wheel rotationally attached to the frame. A drive rim is attached to the wheel adjacent to the outer circumference of the wheel. A pulley is rotationally attached to the frame. A belt is trained around and engages both the pulley and the drive rim. Because the belt is positioned at the outer circumference of the wheel a mechanical advantage is created that significantly reduces the amount of force required on the belt to propel the cycle. The cycle may be steered via the rotation of the rider's body on a seat. This rotation translates to rotation of a front portion of the frame with respect to the a rear portion of the frame about a pivoting interface portion, thereby causing the cycle to turn.
US07661686B2 Steering structure of a walk-substituting cart
A walk-substituting cart has a transverse rod secured to a chassis thereof, first and second sleeves secured on the transverse rod, first and second rotating shafts passed through the sleeves for connection to a handlebar device, a connecting rod, a front wheel on each side, and two transmission rods; the first sleeve is nearer to one side of the chassis while the second sleeve is right behind the middle of the front of the cart; the connecting rod is pivoted to the rotating shafts at two ends for passing on turning motion; each front wheel has a direction changing plate joined thereto, and the transmission rods are pivoted to respective direction changing plates, and pivoted to the second rotating shaft; therefore, the handlebar device can be located either right behind the middle of the front of the cart or nearer to a lateral side of the cart.
US07661682B2 Recreational and sporting device for movement over ground
The present invention relates to a recreational and sporting device (10) comprising a foot support (12) that is mounted on a first wheel (26) such that the foot support is located below the axis of rotation of a first wheel (26). The foot cradle (12) is hingedly attached to a leg support (18) which is adapted to be attached to a user's leg. The device (10) may further include a second wheel (56) used for stabilization and to assist in steering. The device (10) provides a recreational and sporting apparatus that is more manoeuvrable and can be used on uneven terrain where conventional skates, such as in-line skates, cannot be used.
US07661681B1 Automated suspension system
A suspension system for towed vehicles automatically adjusts for different payloads and road conditions without the need for manual shims used in prior art suspensions. automatically adjusts a mechanical bias on the vehicle to keep the suspension within a preferred ride height range. A hydraulic cylinder between the frames of the towing and the towed vehicles provides a mechanical biasing force to the towed vehicle. A sensor measures the ride height and causes the hydraulic cylinder to retract or extend according to the bias needed to maintain the suspension in the preferred ride height range.
US07661680B2 Ferrofluid magnetic seal
A ferrofluid based magnetic seal, comprising at least one gasket, the at least one gasket comprising a flexible, closed cell material, such as, without limitation, neoprene, polyvinylchloride, or plastic, and a ferrofluid core; a first housing, wherein a first face of the first housing is designed to receive at least a portion of the gasket; a second housing, wherein a first face of the second housing is designed to receive at least a portion of at least one magnet; and wherein the at least one magnet is positioned such that when the first housing and the second housing are in close proximity, the at least one magnet is positioned substantially along the length of the at least one gasket.
US07661678B2 Poker game with dealer disqualifying hand
A method of playing a poker-type wagering game is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: a) placing a mandatory Ante bet to participate in a poker-type card game against a dealer hand; b) placing a mandatory Super Bonus bet on the occurrence of one of a predetermined plurality of winning poker hands; c) a dealer dealing at least two hands of cards to the dealer position and a hand of cards to each player participating in the game; d) and when the dealer's first hand meets or exceeds a predetermined high ranking hand value, discarding the first hand and playing the second hand; e) each player placing an additional mandatory Bet after viewing at least the player's hand of cards to stay in the game; f) resolving each player hand against the dealer hand; g) paying the player on the Ante and Bet if the player's hand ranking exceeds that of the dealer; and h) paying the player on the Super Bonus bet if the player hand is one of a plurality of predetermined winning poker hands. The game is preferably played with three cards in a hand, and has additional features such as an optional side bet on the occurrence of a predetermined winning poker hand.
US07661674B2 Feeding device and image recording apparatus equipped with the feeding device
A feeding device including a drive roller and a driven roller opposed to the drive roller and biased toward the drive roller, such that the drive and driven rollers cooperate to feed a sheet while holding the sheet therebetween. The driven roller includes a toothed wheel portion and a contactable portion having a diameter smaller than that of the toothed wheel portion. The drive roller includes first and second portions. A radially outer end of the second portion is more distant from an axis of the drive roller than a radially outer end of the first portion. During absence of the sheet between the drive and driven rollers, the contactable portion of the driven roller is held in contact at its circumferential surface with a circumferential surface of the second portion of the drive roller, while a radially outer end of the toothed wheel portion is not in contact with a circumferential surface of the first portion. Also disclosed is an image recording apparatus including the above-described feeding device.
US07661663B2 Vibration damper having a buffer spring
A vibration damper is disclosed which includes a damper tube filled with a damping medium; a piston rod which can move in an oscillating and reciprocal manner in the damper tube and one end of which protrudes into the damper tube and which comprises at this end a piston rod extension and a shoulder. A piston divides the interior of the damper tube into a working chamber remote from the piston rod and a piston rod-side working chamber and which is disposed coaxially with respect to the piston rod extension and comprises restrictor openings and at least one spring washer covering these restrictor openings in each working chamber. A buffer spring is disposed in the piston rod-sideworking chamber.
US07661660B2 Method and apparatus for aeration of a fluid
Disclosed are a method and system for providing improved aeration of a fluid that is propelled though a pump to efficiently transfer oxygen and other gasses to a liquid body. In addition to the aeration, circulation of the liquid body may be performed to provide additional efficiency and benefit to the fluid system. In one embodiment, the apparatus performs efficient aeration by utilizing a venturi effect on the submerged intake manifold of a floating centrifugal pump. The aerated fluid is then directed to circulate the aerated liquid to a portion of the fluid body that is in greatest need of the gas that is being mixed with the fluid.
US07661656B1 Barbed tape
A barbed tape is formed from an elongate strip having laterally spaced first side and second sides. A series of sharpened barb clusters project from at least one side, and preferably both sides, of the strip. The area of the strip between each adjacent pair of barb clusters is characterized by a plurality of transverse corrugations formed adjacent the first side of the strip, and preferably extending about to the strip centerline. A continuous longitudinally extended strengthening rib may be formed on the uncorrugated second side of the strip.
US07661654B2 Valve unit
A valve unit is connected to a fixed member and an external member. The valve unit includes an actuator to actuate a valve member for communicating and blocking a fluid passage. The valve unit includes a housing defining a chamber therein for absorbing variation in pressure. A mount member secures the housing to the external member. A protruding portion is provided at a location other than a location of the mount member. The protruding portion outwardly extends, thereby being inserted into an insertion hole of the fixed member. A bias member is provided to a substantially annular groove in an outer periphery of the protruding portion. An eccentrically positioning unit positions a bottom surface of the substantially annular groove eccentrically with respect to the insertion hole to bias the bias member to an inner periphery defining the insertion hole.
US07661651B2 Apparatus for controlling medium flow
An apparatus for controlling medium flow, especially for controlling dilution liquid flow in connection with the headbox of a paper-making machine or a cardboard-manufacturing machine, which apparatus comprises a valve which controls dilution flow, which valve consists of a valve housing, a stem part and a flow channel between an inlet and an outlet of the valve. The stem part is movable in the housing between at least two positions, a first position in which the flow path between the inlet and the outlet is open, and a second position in which the flow path is closed, and the stem part and/or housing is designed to direct the medium flow at least in the vicinity of the outlet opening.
US07661643B2 Swivel mount system for a monitor
A mount system supports a monitor against a supporting surface such as a wall. The mount system allows the monitor to swing open adjacent to one of its edge and extends the monitor away from the wall so that the edge of the monitor does not hit the wall. A motor or a linear actuator may be used to move the monitor through a motorized action.
US07661636B1 Combined bottle holder and activity center apparatus for infant
An combined bottle holder and activity center apparatus for an infant is provided. The apparatus generally comprises at least one mounting strap portion having upper and lower ends; a holding ring portion disposed at a lower end of the mounting strap portion; a support strap portion coupled to at least one of the mounting strap and holding ring portions; and, a plurality of interactive elements coupled in manipulable manner to at least one of the mounting strap and holding ring portions. The holding ring portion defines a looped receiving space for a base portion of a feed bottle. The support strap portion includes an engaging member for retentively engaging a forward portion of the feed bottle. Each of the interactive elements is thematically configured with visual and tactile distinction one from the other.
US07661634B2 Keyed channel strut mounted connector device
A keyed channel strut mounted connector device includes channel engagement structure connected to attachment structure. The channel engagement structure includes a key for engaging the channel, and an octagonal neck connecting the key to a boss surmounting the attachment structure. The neck includes clearance facets permitting the key to pass into the longitudinal channel, and relief facets defining support shoulders on the key for supporting the key on the inwardly turned sidewalls of a channel strut. Two pairs of opposed support shoulders permit installation of the device for supporting a run of cables or pipes parallel with the longitudinal axis of the strut, or rotation of the device 90° for supporting the cables or pipes transverse to the strut. By rotating the device 180° in either direction, the head and tail ends of the attachment structure can be reversed without changing the parallel or transverse orientation of the attachment structure.
US07661628B2 Catalyzed decomposing structural payload foam and method of using same
A high energy, e.g., ultraviolet (UV), catalyzed decomposing foam encapsulating a payload to be boosted in space provides an ultra-light weight, adaptable means to facilitate survival of much lighter, smaller satellites and space hardware under boost environment. The decomposable foam is to contain multiple satellites within a booster payload in lieu of the traditionally heavy and complex structural framework. The catalyzed decomposing foam significantly lowers the weight and structure of all space hardware. This packaging system is especially beneficial where several or even hundreds of satellites are required for a constellation system, thereby significantly benefiting all technologies applied in space, ranging from the telecommunication industry to DOD applications. In addition to weight and cost savings, advantages of this foam are many in that it is adaptable to any payload shape as it may be injected, sprayed, formed, molded, easily cut or manufactured to support any geometry required.
US07661625B2 Jettisonable nosecone and missile with a jettisonable nosecone
A jettisonable nosecone (10) for a missile is specified, which nosecone (10) is longitudinally split into at least two parts (15, 16) and is held together by detachable connecting structures, in which case the connecting structures are designed to actively move the at least two parts (15, 16) away from one another when released. A missile having a correspondingly designed nosecone (10) is also provided. A nosecone (10) of this type allows simple jettisoning during every flight phase of the missile, and is also suitable for retrofitting to an already existing missile.
US07661623B2 Cable storage device
The present invention is an improved cable/cord storage device. The cable management device includes first and second expanded regions, a medial region, and at least one channel with a resealable slit. The first and second expanded regions are respectively wider than the medial region. The at least one channel includes an opening on the first region, an opening on the medial region, and an internal cavity therebetween. The internal cavity may be intentionally exposed via a resealable slit to allow a cable to be routed through the internal cavity between the openings. Upon release, slit automatically reseals, thereby reliably supporting the cable. A second embodiment includes two such channels, one in each expanded region. An improved embodiment features transition zones at the origin and terminus of each channel, a rounded edge to each slit, and transitioning curvature of the medial region.
US07661617B2 Device and method for canceling sheet material
The invention relates to an apparatus and a corresponding method for canceling, in particular destroying, sheet material, in particular bank notes. The apparatus comprises at least one canceling means (2) to which the sheet material (1) to be canceled is fed, in which the fed sheet material (11) is canceled, in particular destroyed, and from which the canceled sheet material (11) is discharged. The apparatus comprises furthermore at least one supervising means (7) for monitoring the sheet material (11) being discharged or having been discharged from said canceling means (2).For improved monitoring of the cancellation of sheet material, in particular with respect to malfunctions, there is provided at least one monitoring means (6a, 6b) for monitoring the fed sheet material (1). The fed sheet material (11) is compared to the sheet material (11) being discharged or having been discharged in an evaluation means (9).
US07661616B2 Chopper and method of chopping unwound items
A method and apparatus for separating long, unwound items like fiber, fiber strands, yarn, etc. into short lengths is disclosed. The apparatus has a backup roll, a blade roll that uses novel dummy blade slot fillers between each pair of chopping blades on the blade roll to eliminate or substantially reduce vibration normally encountered when making longer chopped lengths of chopped product.
US07661614B2 Shredder throat safety system
The present invention relates to a shredder that includes a housing having a movable part that forms at least a part of an opening for the insertion of articles to be fed into the shredder. A detector detects motion of the movable part, and in response, a controller performs a predetermined operation, including, for example, stopping cutting elements of the shredder mechanism.
US07661609B2 Pressure washer with soft start washer wand
A pressure washer wand having first and second valves that can be opened in a predetermined or user-adjustable manner through movement of a trigger. In one form, the first and second valves are opened sequentially in response to movement of a trigger to transition from a no-flow condition to a relatively low pressure flow and thereafter to a relatively high pressure flow. In another form, the sequencing of the valves can be changed such that only the first valve, which provides a relatively low pressure flow, is opened in response to movement of the trigger. A pressure washing system having the pressure washer wand is also provided.
US07661600B2 Laser etched security features for identification documents and methods of making same
Identification documents employing laser-etched or -engraved features are detailed, together with methods for their manufacture. Tactile effects produced by the laser-processed features may be felt by touch, helping confirm the authenticity of such documents.
US07661596B1 Symbology-based self-configuring verifier
A self-configuring verifier for performing standardized evaluation and verification of the print quality of a data carrying graphical symbol is structured with a plurality of illumination sources and at least one imaging device. The verifier is capable of automatically determining the symbology of the graphical symbol to be evaluated, and establish a pre-defined illumination pattern and possibly other settings, as required, to satisfy pre-defined evaluation standards. Once the illumination pattern is established and setup is complete, the verifier may fully evaluate and report on the quality of at least one data carrying graphical symbol imaged by the imaging device of the verifier. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope and meaning of the claims.
US07661591B2 RF point of sale and delivery method and system using communication with remote computer and having features to read a large number of RF tags
A method and system for providing point-of-sale and point-of-delivery and/or distribution of products in a restricted access unit near the customer. The method and system utilize products equipped with radio frequency tags and reduce the effects of energy sharing, shadowing, and nulls. In one embodiment, a plurality of RF tagged products are placed within a refrigerator, cabinet, or other micro-warehouse that has a door or opening that can detect access to the micro-warehouse. In one embodiment, one or more antennas are positioned within the door. Each antenna may have a transmission line of sight and be configured to emit a signal at predefined frequencies. Each antenna generates an electromagnetic field within the micro-warehouse. In one embodiment, the products are positioned in one or more bins, compartments, or similar devices located within the micro-warehouse such that at least two of the plurality of products are spaced a distance from each other to reduce energy sharing. The electromagnetic field is moved or altered within the micro-warehouse through the use of reflectors, devices that move the antennas, or other mechanisms.
US07661582B2 Medical indication device and identification method
The present invention relates to a medical-technical identification device for identifying a sterile product (4, 62, 72, 82), and to a method of identifying such a product, for example a product intended for one-time-use only, when connected to a piece of medical equipment (1, 60, 70, 80), wherein the sterile product (4, 62, 72, 82) includes a fixedly mounted information carrier (9, 63, 73, 83) which is adapted to deliver or to offer specific product information in a contactless fashion to a reading element (12, 64, 74, 84) connected to the equipment (1, 60, 70, 80).
US07661579B2 Packaging container, and method and apparatus for making same
A new and improved packaging container, and a method and apparatus for fabricating the same, comprises a laminated structure comprising a plurality of plies formed from suitable paper or similar materials. The plurality of plies, having a predetermined width dimension, are bonded together in a substantially flattened state by glue which is applied in predetermined, axially extending, laterally staggered patterns. Subsequently, the substantially flat, laminated structure is longitudinally scored or embossed at predetermined lateral or transverse positions so as to effectively predispose, and thereby facilitate, for example, the upward folding of oppositely disposed side members of the laminated structure with respect to a central member of the laminated structure whereby the resulting packaging container not only has a desirable substantially U-shaped cross-sectional configuration, but in addition, has optimized flexural beam strength characteristics within its corner regions due to the fact that the oppositely disposed corner regions preferably comprise the same number of multiple plies as the side wall and bottom wall members of the packaging container.
US07661578B2 Packing box
A packing box includes four walls, a bottom support, a cover and plates. The walls, the bottom support and the cover cooperatively define a space for accommodating items to be packed therein. The bottom support is formed with the walls for supporting the items packed in the space. The cover is configured for closing the packing box. The plates are disposed in the space and are formed by folding a cardboard extension from one or more of the walls. The plates separate the space into compartments.
US07661573B2 Heating apparatus
The heating apparatus allows an outlet of a heating nozzle to get opposed to an electronic component during detachment of the electronic component from a printed wiring board. Hot air blown out of the outlet of the heating nozzle is utilized to heat the electronic component. Electrically-conductive terminals thus melt between the electronic component and the printed wiring board. An air discharge nozzle is located in the vicinity of the heating nozzle. The air discharge nozzle serve to generate airflow at a location distanced from the heating nozzle. The airflow serves to suppress rise in the temperature in the vicinity of the electronic component. Other electronic component in the vicinity of the electronic component is reliably prevented from rise in temperature. The other electronic component is thus prevented from destruction.
US07661566B2 Infant carrier with hood
An infant carrier with hood comprises a belt portion to be mounted on a user, and a support portion connected to the belt portion for supporting an infant. A bag-like accommodating portion is provided on an outside face of the support portion and a hood capable of being developed so as to cover the infant supported by the support portion is accommodated in the accommodating portion.
US07661563B2 Device for packaging and dispensing a product
A device for packaging and dispensing a product such as a cosmetic product. A preferred example of the device includes a container forming a holder for the product, and a dispensing element surmounting the container. A dip tube is provided for supplying product to the dispensing element, with the dip tube being connected to the dispensing element by a first end. In addition, a body is able to slide along the dip tube. Further, the dip tube includes, at a distance from its first end, an element forming a stop piece for the body in such a way as to limit the movement of the body along the dip tube.
US07661562B2 Micro powered dispensing device
A liquid dispenser includes a reservoir for holding a liquid, and a chamber in communication with the reservoir. The chamber receives the liquid, and a micro power source generates electricity for heating the liquid disposed in the chamber. A nozzle is included for releasing the heated liquid from the chamber through an orifice in the nozzle.
US07661557B2 Metering device for a medium
A metering device with an applicator housing having an application orifice for medium discharge. A metering pump conveys medium from a medium store to the applicator. An electronic counting module having a stroke detection means operatively engageable with a relatively movable pump portion of the metering pump. A data processing processor evaluates signals from the stroke detection means, and an indicator unit indicates data produced by the data processing processor. A current source supplies the data processing processor with current. A module housing houses an electronic counting module. The external dimensions of the module housing are conformed to the internal dimensions of a reception space. The reception space is open on one side of the applicator housing, so that the module housing can be inserted completely into the reception space through the opening and be fastened therein.
US07661553B2 Apparatus for serially dispensing folder sheet products
A dispenser for dispensing folded sheet products from a stack of folded sheet products, includes: an open-ended body, a front panel provided with a dispensing opening, a rear panel, and a transverse panel located between the front and rear panels. The dispenser further includes a support member for receiving the stack of the folded sheet products and at least one locking mechanism located between the support member and at least one longitudinal wall of the open-ended body.
US07661545B2 Product securement and management system
A system for managing and securing product and deterring theft in a retail setting includes a system that resides either on a standard retailer shelf or may be a stand-alone system. In an embodiment, the system includes a plurality of shelves and product dividers positioned between the shelves and extending from the front edges of the shelves toward the rear of the shelves. Front retaining walls are positioned at the front edges of the shelves and are configured to have a height that inhibits access to products on the shelves. Individual retaining tabs of varying height may be added in front of rows of taller product to inhibit access to these products. In an embodiment, rigid or moveable barriers may be positioned above retaining walls that further restrict access to the products. With the invention, the “sweeping” of numerous products by a thief is deterred. In another embodiment, an alert device may be configured to detect and monitor movement of the moveable barriers and may provide an alert signal corresponding to the management of product on the shelf or corresponding to a potential theft situation. In an embodiment, the alert device may communicate with a security camera to monitor the vicinity and provide a notification to the potential thief that his actions are being monitored and recorded, or provide a notification to store computer, pager, cellular telephone, or the like.
US07661539B2 Liquid filtration device
A liquid filtration device that efficiently filters a filter element and vents pressurized vapors from inside the filter element. The liquid filtration device is comprised of a vent valve apparatus that is furnished within the main body of the filter head and a plug which is located on the filter housing. The main body has a first opening that is located on the outside of the filter housing, a second opening that communicates with the inside of the filter element, an opening that communicates with the second opening and the first opening and a third opening. The third opening permits communication between the filter element and the filter housing as well as between space and the passage found within the third opening. The plug is installed within this passage, and can move between a first position that does not vent pressurized vapors that are within the housing and a second position that vents pressurized vapors that are within the housing.
US07661535B2 Multi-functional storage apparatus
A multi-functional storage apparatus for selectively supporting a capturing device includes a main casing having a receiving cavity and a supporting arrangement. The supporting arrangement is provided on the main casing to operate the main casing between a normal storing mode and an capturing mode, wherein in the normal storing mode, the supporting arrangement is arranged to rest on the main casing so as to allow the main casing to function as a portable carrying device through storing objects within the receiving cavity, wherein in the capturing mode, the supporting arrangement is selectively extended from the main casing to detachably attach to the image capturing device, in such a manner that the image capturing device is securely and suspendedly supported by the main casing as a supporting base for stably capturing image in a predetermined direction.
US07661530B1 Pill organizer containing disposable receptacles
A pill organizer assembly and the associated method of organizing and isolating multiple doses of pharmaceuticals using a pill organizer. The pill organizer includes a holding case. A plurality of partition walls extend between the side walls in the holding case. The partition walls define a plurality of compartments. A lid is provided that is selectively positionable into a closed position on the holding case. A plurality of removable receptacles are provided. A removable receptacle is disposed within each of the plurality of compartments. The lid creates a seal against each of the removable receptacles when the removable receptacles are within the plurality of compartments and the lid is in its closed position. The seal created by the lid isolates the contents of the removable receptacles until they are removed from the holding case.
US07661523B2 Linear hydraulic motor and reciprocating floor conveyor
A linear hydraulic motor (12) includes an elongate cylinder (26) and at least one piston (34) slidingly located inside the cylinder. The piston (34) has a longitudinally extending portion which fits with clearance in the cylinder and which describes a path in use which penetrates an interior zone of the cylinder which extends radially inwardly from an aperture in the cylinder wall. An internal reinforcing member (300) is slidingly located inside the cylinder to travel with the piston. The reinforcing member describes a path in use which also penetrates said interior zone of the cylinder which extends radially inwardly from the aperture in the cylinder wall and the reinforcing member has portions which are concentric and radially aligned with circumferentially spaced portions of the cylinder wall that are on opposite sides of said aperture in the cylinder wall.
US07661514B2 Elevator belt for an elevator installation and method of producing such an elevator belt
An elevator belt for an elevator installation includes a belt body in which a tensile carrier arrangement with several tensile carriers for transmission of a tension force in a longitudinal direction of the elevator belt is arranged. A profile body which spaces these tensile carriers from one another is arranged between adjacent tensile carriers of the tensile carrier arrangement.
US07661513B2 Dual-car elevator system with common counterweight
An elevator system has a lower elevator car, an upper elevator car and a counterweight. A first drive drives the lower elevator car and a second drive drives the upper elevator car. Two parallelly extending guide rails lying in the region of a vertical center plane guide the elevator cars. A support device for the elevator cars and the counterweight comprises two separate support strands. The lower elevator car is fixed at two substantially diagonally opposite points of a horizontal plane each at a respective end of one of the support strands. The upper elevator car is similarly fixed at two substantially diagonally opposite points of a horizontal plane each at an end of one of the support strands, wherein the two diagonals intersect.
US07661508B1 Lightweight speaker enclosure
A speaker enclosure having a substantially seamless rigid outer skin, a middle sound absorbing layer, and a substantially seamless inner skin results in a lightweight speaker having sound absorbing characteristics. The speaker enclosure is comprised of two basic parts, a box section and a baffle section where each of these sections include a rigid outer skin, the middle sound absorbing layer and a seamless inner skin and are made according to the same method. The outer skin is formed from a layer of sheet molding compound, the middle sound absorbing layer includes pieces of honeycomb material, and the inner skin is formed from a layer of sheet molding compound. The layers of material are placed into a mold and then cured through vacuum bagging and heating thereby producing a strong, lightweight speaker enclosure made of materials which attenuate the transmission and retransmission of errant sound waves in the enclosure thereby reducing distortion of the sound signal produced by the speaker.
US07661503B2 Vehicle suspension system for stable squat magnitude responses
A wheel suspension system having under powered acceleration a stable squat magnitude response.
US07661501B1 Vehicle operated by multiple power sources
An economically operated low cost wheeled vehicle that accommodates a single driver occupant is propelled by power provided by a controllable combination of pedaling action of the driver, an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The vehicle is elongated upon a center axis between a front extremity and a rear extremity having a single, axially centered wheel that drives the vehicle.
US07661499B2 Construction machine
A construction machine capable of increasing a frictional force and an acceleration performance without causing unwanted slip and an excessive load to a transmission by a driving force. The construction machine comprises a first mode to set the maximum output of an engine to a prescribed output, a second mode to limit the maximum output of the engine to an output lower than the prescribed output and a mode selector switch used for a operator to select from the plurality of modes. The construction machine also comprises control means that controls the machine to operate in the second mode regardless of the mode selected by the mode selector switch when a vehicle speed is equal to or less than a prescribed speed and the opening of an accelerator is equal to or more than a prescribed opening.
US07661496B2 Motor vehicle comprising a pop-up hood
Described here is a motor vehicle comprising a body, a bonnet and also at least one actuator which is supported on the body and engages with a first edge of the bonnet for the purposes of raising the first edge up to a stop means in the event of an impact. Prior to the striking of the stop means, the actuator accelerates the first edge to a speed which is such that the impulse received by the bonnet is sufficient to raise a second edge of the bonnet that is located opposite the first edge when the first edge strikes the stop means.
US07661492B1 Motorized wheeled vehicle having a multi-stage speed reduction function when turning
A motorized wheeled vehicle includes a support frame, a head tube secured on the support frame, a front fork pivotally mounted on the head tube, a front wheel rotatably mounted on the front fork, a steering tube pivotally mounted on the head tube and secured on the front fork, a speed reduction control switch mounted on the head tube and provided with a plurality of contact points, and a contact board mounted on the steering tube and movable relative to the speed reduction control switch to press or detach the contact points of the speed reduction control switch. Thus, the speed reduction control switch has a multi-stage and micro-adjustment speed reduction function so as to reduce the speed of the motorized wheeled vehicle gradually when the motorized wheeled vehicle is turned.
US07661487B2 Downhole percussive tool with alternating pressure differentials
A downhole percussive tool is disclosed comprising an interior chamber and a piston element slidably sitting within the interior chamber forming two pressure chambers on either side. The piston element may slide back and forth within the interior chamber as drilling fluid is channeled into either pressure chamber. Input channels supply drilling fluid into the pressure chambers and exit orifices release that fluid from the same. An exhaust orifice allows additional drilling fluid to release from the interior chamber. The amount of pressure maintained in either pressure chamber may be controlled by the size of the exiting orifices and exhaust orifices. In various embodiments, the percussive tool may form a downhole jack hammer or vibrator tool.
US07661474B2 Connector assembly and method of use
A connector assembly for interconnecting wellbore tools to form a tool string include a first adapter having a tool end connectable to a first wellbore tool and an alignment end, a mandrel that has a pin end and an opposing end, the pin end being matable with the alignment end of the first adapter, a second adapter having an adapter end connectable to a second wellbore tool and a second end connected to the opposing end the mandrel and a sleeve that has a first open end and a second open end, the sleeve is moveably disposed over and in connection with the mandrel and the second open end is connectable with the alignment end of the first adapter for interconnecting the first adapter and the second adapter. The connector assembly facilitates hands-free make-up and break-out of tool strings.
US07661467B1 Methods to control heat transfer in fluids containing drag-reducing additives
A drag reducing fluid pumped (22) through a heat exchanger (12).
US07661451B2 Method and machining installation for the machining of wood workpieces
A method as well as a bonding installation for machining of wood workpieces. At least one machining aggregate is provided where in the supplying and discharge region one conveying system each is arranged. Besides machining of the front end region by the machining aggregate also other machinings are carried out on the wood workpiece.
US07661450B2 Process for making a bamboo filament slab floor by opposite directional hot pressing
The present invention relates to bamboo manufacturing field, in particular, to a process for making a bamboo filament slab floor by opposite directional hot pressing. Aiming to overcome the defects that, while compressing, the existing bamboo filament slab floor at normal temperature under cold pressing is easy to rebound and expand, has low strength and weak resistance to abrasion and is easy to mildew while using for a long time, the present invention adopts shredding bamboo sheet, sizing treatment, molding bamboo filament and etc. procedures, characterized in that, a secondary drying procedure should be inserted between said sizing treatment and bamboo filament molding procedure; said sizing treatment should be implemented by soak sizing bamboo filament; said compressing includes opposite directional hot pressing of positive pressing and side pressing. The present invention adopts specific manufacturing technology, thus the floor can avoid the occurrence of holes and gaps inside bamboo filament slab floor and discharge formaldehyde and has stable quality, and will be not prone to mildew and deform while using for a long time. It can be widely used and suitable for indoor and outdoor flooring and various boards used in decoration and furniture.
US07661448B2 Automatic liquid dispenser and refrigerator with the same
An automatic liquid dispenser and a refrigerator with the same is disclosed wherein a level of liquid to be ejected into a receptacle can be established, and a display module is mounted to thereby enhance a user convenience, and wherein the automatic liquid dispenser is mounted on the refrigerator to allow being independently driven and manufactured.
US07661446B2 Method for operating and managing a re-fueling business
Disclosed is a method for operating and managing a re-fueling business. The method includes contracting with a customer to fuel a fuel consuming vehicle for the customer, providing a locking device with a fuel tank of the vehicle, the locking device being unlockable by the re-fueling business and the customer, and transporting a fuel containing structure from the re-fueling business to various locations of the customer's vehicle whenever a fueling of the vehicle is desirable to the business and the customer, the locations being remote of the business, unlocking the locking device of the fuel tank upon arrival at the locations, filling the fuel tank with an amount of fuel from the fuel containing structure upon the transporting of the fuel container to the locations, and re-locking the locking device after filling the fuel tank with the amount of fuel.
US07661442B2 Compact hydraulic accumulator
A lightweight, optimally efficient, easily serviced, piston-in-sleeve high pressure accumulator is provided. The accumulator includes one or more cylindrical composite pressure vessel separate end cap manifolds. A piston slidably disposed in a thin impermeable internal sleeve in the accumulator separates two chambers, one adapted for containing a working fluid and the other adapted for containing gas under pressure. Gas is provided in a volume between the impermeable internal sleeve and the composite pressure vessel wall. Additional gas is optionally provided in gas cylinders. Further components are provided for withstanding harmful effects of radial flexing of the composite vessel wall under high pressures, and from stresses present in use in mobile applications such as with a hydraulic power system for a hydraulic hybrid motor vehicle.
US07661440B2 Device for selectively regulating the flow rate of a fluid
A device for regulating the flow rate of a fluid includes a housing containing a plurality of flow conduits fluidly connecting an inlet and an outlets each of the flow conduits comprising a flow control tube and a resiliently compressive occlusion tube, wherein the flow control tubes are of substantially equal internal diameter. Each of the flow control tubes has a length associated with a different flow rate. A resilient flow-blocking element is operatively associated with each of the occlusion tubes and is movable into a flow-blocking compression against its associated occlusion tube. An actuation mechanism in the housing is operable (a) to selectively engage and move one or more of the flow-blocking elements into the flow-blocking compression against its associated occlusion tube, and (b) to selectively be disengaged from any of the flow-blocking elements.
US07661439B2 Safety override circuit for pneumatic positioner and method of use thereof
Systems and processes may provide improved performance for a pneumatic positioner during a safety override. In certain implementations, a system and process may include the ability to receive an input control signal, power control circuitry of the pneumatic positioner using the input control signal, and generate a control signal for a signal-to-pressure converter with the control circuitry based at least partially on the input control signal. The system and process may also include the ability to detect an unsafe operating condition for the pneumatic positioner based on an input signal and modify the control signal in response to detecting the unsafe operating condition, to cause the converter to transition to a safe state. The system and process may additionally include the ability to allow the control circuitry to continue being powered by the input control signal while the converter is in the safe state.
US07661435B2 Pump connector for Presta valve
Pump connector for Presta valve is disclosed in which one end of a pump connector valve seal is formed with a hollow chamber, and is disposed inside a space of a cap having a channel. The hollow chamber is assembled with a valve seal insert which includes a through hole. The second end of the through hole is formed with an inner edge corresponding to the shape of the shoulder section of the Presta valve. An end cap is assembled with the cap for preventing the pump connector valve seal from separating from the cap. Accordingly, the Presta valve can be screwed together with a first internal thread of the cap, and at the same time the shoulder section of the Presta valve is tightly fitted to the inner edge of the valve seal insert for direct inflation.
US07661429B2 Plunger
A plunger intended for an inserter for an intrauterine device with a T-body, which plunger has a first end and a second end. The plunger's length in its longitudinal direction is substantially larger than the diameter of the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The plunger's cross-section is substantially circular. An opening (17) has been arranged in the plunger's longitudinal direction so that the opening's longitudinal axis is substantially the same as the plunger's longitudinal axis. The opening at the first end of the plunger is arranged to expand in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis to form a tip portion, so that the tip portion has at least one surface (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11), which along at least a portion of the tip portion's length turns at least 35° in relation to a first plane in parallel with the longitudinal axis and at least 35° in relation to a plane at an angle in relation to the longitudinal axis.
US07661427B2 Proportional pressure assist ventilation controlled by a diaphragm electromyographic signal
A closed loop system uses (a) the intensity of the diaphragm electromyogram (EMG) for a given inspiratory volume; (b) the inspiratory volume for a given EMG intensity; or (c) a combination of (a) and (b); in view of controlling the level of gas flow, gas volume or gas pressure delivered by a mechanical (lung) ventilator. The closed loop ventilator system enables for automatic or manual adjustment of the level of inspiratory support in proportion to changes in the neuro-ventilatory efficiency such that the neural drive remains stable at a desired target level. An alarm can also be used to detect changes in neuroventilatory efficiency in view of performing manual adjustments.
US07661426B2 Method for controlling the pressure supplied by a CPAP device, CPAP device and storage medium
The present invention relates to a method for controlling the pressure supplied by a CPAP device. The method comprises repeated measurement of a respiratory air flow during operation of the device and determining at least one respiratory event from the measured time-dependent behavior of the respiratory flow, the respiratory event representing an indication that the pressure supplied by the CPAP device is too low. Furthermore, the method comprises a slow, quasi ramp-like lowering of the pressure supplied by the CPAP device as long as no respiratory event is detected. Furthermore, the invention relates to a CPAP device for carrying out such a method and to a storage medium with a corresponding program.
US07661425B2 Inhaler
An inhaler comprising a tubular body (1) defining a tubular air flow passage with a bendable section, preferably a U-shaped section comprising peripherally extending corrugations and means for supplying a dose of at least one active inhalable, particulate substance into the flow passage and a cap (2). According to the invention the dose of the at least one active, inhalable particulate substance is placed in the cap (2) to be released from said cap substantially at the beginning of the corrugations in the intake direction.
US07661424B2 Method of use of gas mixtures to achieve nitrogen washout from the body and mitochondria of the heart
The disclosure details methods and gas mixtures which are useful for washing nitrogen out of the body and mitochondria following acute cerebrovascular accidents (strokes) or myocardial infarction (heart attacks) and allow the reuptake of oxygen into mitochondria of ischemic tissues following re-flow, thereby reducing the severity of reperfusion damage and cell death.
US07661412B2 Method of controlling the start-up of an internal combustion engine
A method of controlling the startup of an engine using a sensor having a reference index, commanding the rotation of the crankshaft, detecting the rotation of the crankshaft, selecting a group of cylinders for which the reference index is detected less than a half-turn of the crankshaft before the piston reaches the top dead center, before the inlet valves of the selected group of cylinders closes, commanding the injectors of the selected group of cylinders, detecting the reference index, and commanding the ignition element.
US07661410B1 Fluid leak limiter
A fluid leak limiter for a high-pressure fuel injection system is disclosed. The fluid leak limiter may have a body at least partially defining a central bore and having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a piston reciprocatingly disposed within the central bore, and a spring located to bias the piston toward a first flow-blocking position at which fluid from the fluid inlet is inhibited from flowing to the fluid outlet. The fluid leak limiter may also have a pin configured to selectively lock the piston in a second flow-blocking position at which fluid from the fluid inlet is inhibited from flowing to the fluid outlet.
US07661409B2 Operating method and device for a gas-operated internal combustion engine
The invention relates to an operating method and to a device for a gas-driven internal combustion engine. According to the invention, the pressure in a gas injection system is adapted to the operational state of the internal combustion engine. A higher pressure is adjusted in the gas injection system during a higher charge of the internal combustion engine. Said higher pressure enables a higher volume flow through the gas injection valves associated with the gas injection system. The power produced by the internal combustion engine can be optimized. A lower pressure in the gas injection system is adjusted in the event of a lower charge or if the internal combustion engine is switched off. The lower pressure emits lower pollutant emissions which are produced by the internal combustion engine. The invention is characterized by a bi-directional interface between a control device and a pressure reducer or pressure controller.
US07661401B2 Laser type engine ignition device
A laser type ignition device for an internal combustion engine includes a laser oscillator mounted in the internal combustion engine so as to focus its laser beam on an air-fuel mixture supplied into the combustion chamber, a pressure sensor for detecting pressure in the combustion chamber, a power source for the laser oscillator and a control unit for controlling the power source to supply the laser oscillator with the current whose amount changes according to the pressure in the combustion chamber. The power of the laser beam increases as the pressure in the combustion chamber decreases to completely ignite the air-fuel mixture.
US07661400B2 Switchable cam follower
A switchable finger lever (1) of a valve train of an internal combustion engine is provided, including an outer lever (3) and an inner lever (4) that extends between the arms thereof. One end of the outer lever (3) is provided with a contact area (6) for a head of a resting element on the bottom side (5) thereof. A smooth-faced longitudinal recess (7) for a coupling means (8) extends above the contact area (6). Some sections of the coupling means (8) can be engaged with the driving area (9) located on a face (10) of the inner lever (4) when the levers (3, 4) are coupled. The coupling means (8) is provided as a circular cylinder which is freely rotatable in the longitudinal recess (7) that is provided as a bore. The driving area (9) is provided on the inner lever (4) so as to be complementary to the outer envelope (14) of the coupling means (8). Durability in the coupling zone is improved as a result of the fact that the coupling means (8) is freely rotatable.
US07661393B2 Hoof bath system
The present invention is directed to methods for applying bovine foot and hoof treatment compositions having two or more specific and complimentary antimicrobial components in a hoof bath just prior to use to work more effectively. These antimicrobial components may include antimicrobial inorganic salts of certain heavy metals, cationic agents, peroxides, aldehydes, fatty acids, iodines or other suitable compounds effective in the killing of microorganisms.
US07661391B2 Swiftlets farming for production of edible bird's nests
An edible bird's nests production facility comprising of: a wholly man made artificial caves system and/or converted natural relief such as caves, valleys, cliffs forming the nesting habitat and associated supporting facilities configured to breed swiftlets for their nests by means of a captive breeding program for swiftlets; commercialized-scientific farming methods; specialized apparatus, mechanisms and techniques; managed sustainable harvesting of nests; provision of a safe and secure nesting habitat and a conducive environment to maximize avian population by minimizing mortality rates; safe collection of nests by means of mechanized lifting systems and specialist mountaineering equipment.
US07661385B2 Device for spin-coating substrates
A device for spin-coating substrates with liquid media is provided, including a rotatable substrate plate for horizontally supporting a substrate, and a covering unit for covering the substrate during a distribution operation of the liquid medium by means of rotation of the substrate holder. The substrate holder is adapted to be joined tightly to the covering unit, so that passage holes arranged circumferentially on the substrate holder so that an internal coating space, defined by the covering unit and the substrate holder, is in fluid communication with the environment outside the internal space.
US07661383B2 Contact lens case with date storing feature
A date indicator for use with a contact lens case having a base and at least one lens container is disclosed. The indicator comprises a lid to selectively close the at least one contact lens container. A generally annular day wheel has a plurality of day indicators on an upper surface thereof, and is rotatably captured within a cylindrical depression of the lid. A generally circular month wheel includes a plurality of mouth indicators on an upper surface thereof, and is rotatably captured on a central spindle of the lid. A torsion spring is fixed to a spring mounting mechanism of the day wheel. One end of the spring engages a sawtooth-notched wall of the month wheel and the other end of the spring engages a sawtooth-notched wall of the lid. The spring allows the day and month wheels to rotate in one direction together while preventing the day wheel from rotating in the opposite direction. The day wheel may be set at a desired day indicator by rotating the month wheel and day wheel together in the one direction. The month wheel may be set at a desired month indicator by rotating the month wheel in the opposite direction.
US07661380B2 Method of and apparatus for detecting and controlling bilge water in a sea vessel
An improved bilge water level monitor, alert and control system for boats and other vessels. The system provides a method of detecting excessive leakage of water into the bilge and in response to the excessive water in the bilge, triggering an alarm to notify the operator and others and energizes bilge pumps to remove the excessive water. The system is designed with many redundancies in the sub elements and subsystems for safety. The system provides a means for reducing the likelihood of exhausting battery power in the event of a significant seawater leakage problem. The electrical power rating of the monitoring circuitry components is relatively low, thereby reducing the size and weight of those components relative to prior bilge pump monitoring and alert systems. There is no electrical wiring exposed to bilge water during system operation thereby reducing damage to the wiring components. The water level detection and control circuitry operates with sufficiently low amperage to substantially eliminate the hazard of spark-induced combustion.
US07661369B2 Method for replacing old ties of a railroad track with new ties
The invention relates to the replacement of old ties of a railway track by new ties. This aim can be achieved by spreading the two rails apart from each other. The reception of ballast gravel for producing a recess of ballast is carried out in a region below of the sleeper head of a ballast bed, which is located adjacent to the region of the old sleepers along their longitudinal axis. The received ballast gravel is temporarily stored and, once the new sleepers have been deposited, thrown off for the purpose of ballasting. In parallel and prior to the deposit of new sleepers, excess ballast gravel is ploughed in the recess of ballast so as to produce a leveled surface of ballast.
US07661367B2 Radial-linear shaped charge pipe cutter
A radial-linear shaped charge pipe cutter is constructed with the booster explosive packed intimately into a booster aperture that is bored axially through the charge upper end plate. The cutter explosive is initiated at the interface between the upper margin of the cutter explosive and the contiguous inside surface of the upper end plate. This interface is within a critical initiation distance from the half charge juncture plane. In one embodiment, a half charge liner is configured as the assembly of two, coaxial, frusto-cones with the smaller cone diverging from the half charge juncture plane at a smaller angle than the outer cone. In another embodiment, the liner thickness increases from the juncture plane out to the liner perimeter.
US07661364B2 Safety and arming unit for a spinning projectile fuze
A safety and arming unit (11) which is designed in particular for an electrical fuze circuit (27) does not reliably respond just to lateral loads on one side, but responds only to centrifugal forces produced by the spin during free flight, in that two contact pairs (22-23, 22-23) which are connected electrically in parallel with one another via rings (14, 15) and are arranged diametrically opposite one another on a cross-sectional plane of the fuze (12) are both no longer electrically conductively bridged at the same time by the bolt (17) because, just by virtue of the centrifugal force, both bolts (17) are simultaneously moved radially outwards from their short-circuit safety positions in their blind holes (16), which are oriented transversely with respect to the rotation axis (13).
US07661357B2 Stencil printing machine with a plurality of drum units and method of controlling the same
A controller reads out image data of an area frame that a user has drawn on an original and accurately extracts the area frame by removing noise from the read-out image data to divide image data of an area outside the area frame and image data of an area inside the area frame into separate stencils, according to a separation program. It is therefore possible to execute a separation process desired by the user without increasing costs and man-hours and with easy operations not making the user feel troublesome.
US07661356B2 Food-cutting device
A food-cutting device includes an upper metal base and a lower metal base respectively formed with recessed areas and shaped mold cavities with a predetermined cavity depth having raised rims outwardly projecting from the recessed areas and having inclined and closed peripheral patterns formed on inner surfaces. Cutters having a height greater than that of the raised rim are provided around the shaped mold cavities of the upper metal base. Moreover, press members respectively have one ends connected to each side of the upper metal base and the other ends connected to each side portion of a handle pivotally connected to a rear sick of the upper metal base. When the upper and lower metal bases are in a closed state to heat foodstuff, the foodstuff is pressed into a predetermined configuration, and a filling is encapsulated within the foodstuff followed by cutting the foodstuff by the cutters.
US07661355B2 Meat processing
A processor and process method for preparing pre-cooked ground meat. An augered heated tube allows meat to be cooked as it is tumbled and moved through the tube. The cooked ground meat can be mechanically degreased through a mechanical process such as spinning to provide a meat product that has a controlled fat content. Then the meat can be packaged and irradiated to provide a pre-cooked meat product that is easy to use and that has a long shelf life.
US07661354B2 Kettle for beverage, electric water kettle and cableless electric kettle for beverage
This invention is in technical field of electric heating, and relates to a kind of kettles for beverage, electric water kettles and cableless electric kettles for beverage. Its aim is to solve the problem appearing at existing kettles for beverage, i.e. Vapor and water generated in existing kettles for beverage flies out through top port of funnel. This may not only go through the lid of inner vessel, but also reach onto the lid of kettle body. As result, inner side of the lid of kettle body would be with tea or coffee stains, and its surface will be very hot to make its use difficult and there is sanitary problem due to contamination on surface of the lid. Kettles of this invention contain an inner vessel fixed on bottom of the kettle body inside the kettle. A funnel is provided at top opening of the inner vessel. There are two separate filtering layers inside the funnel: an upper and a lower filtering layer. On the inner vessel, there is a cap covering the opening of the kettle body and having a pipe from cavity of inner vessel to space between kettle body and inner vessel. Kettles of this invention are easy to use, and avoids accidental touch of the funnel with high temperature. It may prevent from burned as well as contamination due to touch of inner part of the kettle body.
US07661351B2 Hydrostatic axial piston machine and use of said machine
The invention relates to a hydrostatic axial piston machine having a cylinder block which can be rotated about a first axis, the cylinder block being provided with a plurality of cylinder bores which extend in the axial direction and which are arranged on a partial circle which is concentric in relation to the first axis, in addition to a plane which can be rotated about a second axis, whereon a number of pistons associated with the bores, can be articulated in a pivotable manner on a second partial circle which is concentric in relation to the second axis and form a ring. Also provided is a device for synchronizing the rotation of the cylinder block about the first axis and the drive shaft about the second axis. The cylinder block and the drive shaft can be adjusted in a continuous manner using both axes, between a first position, wherein both axes are parallel, and a second position, wherein both axes together form a maximum pivoting angle which is different from zero.
US07661349B1 Multifunctional firearm muzzle attachment system primarily for attaching a noise suppressor to a firearm
An apparatus and method for easily, quickly and reliably attaching a noise suppressor or other auxiliary device to the muzzle end of a firearm barrel and for easily, quickly and reliably removing the noise suppressor or other auxiliary device there from. My invention also provides for adjusting the host firearms point of impact by changing the orientation of the noise suppressor in relation to the host firearms bore.
US07661341B2 Wrench with electronic torque display unit
A wrench with electronic torque display unit includes a torque adjustment mechanism which includes a sleeve, two gears, a rod and a movable tube, and a locking mechanism which includes a positioning cap, wherein the value of the torque to be output can be set by operating the adjustment mechanism by rotating the positioning cap. The pre-set value is displayed on the display screen so as to provide a wrench with convenient operation and precise feature.
US07661334B2 Locking device
A locking device (10) includes an adjustable bracket (7) provided with a recess (16), a stationary contour (9) with a contact surface (12), a pin (8), which is arranged movably in the recess (16) and on which an axial spring force generated by a compression spring (21) acts. A pin head (14) projects from the recess (16) of the bracket (7) and has a contact pair with the contact surface (12). At least one centering device (18) is provided between the pin (8) and the bracket (7). The locking device has a centering device (18), which has an elastically deformable ring (19). The ring (19) is arranged between the pin (8) and the bracket (7) within the recess (16) and is displaceably arranged within the recess (16). The ring (19) has a surface (22) with a cross section tapering against the direction of the force of the compression spring (21). The surface is in contact with a complementary surface (23) at the pin (8).
US07661329B2 Pawl drive for coupling torque between two rotatable elements
A method and apparatus for transferring torque from one rotatable element to another rotatable element using at least one pawl. The apparatus comprises a first rotatable element having at least one recess, a second rotatable element and at least one pawl coupled from the second rotatable element to the at least one recess. The method comprises coupling a first rotatable element, wherein the first rotatable element comprises at least one pawl to a second rotatable element, wherein the second rotatable element comprises at least one recess; rotating the first rotatable element; engaging the first rotatable element with the second rotatable element by adapting the at least one pawl to couple with the at least one recess; and transferring torque from the first rotatable element to the second rotatable element.
US07661324B2 Magnetostrictive torque sensor and electric power steering apparatus
This magnetostrictive torque sensor 10 includes a rotating shaft 11 used to rotate according to an input torque and provided with magnetostrictive films 14A and 14B, an excitation coil 12 configured to apply an alternating magnetic field 31 to the magnetostrictive film, and detection coils 13A and 13B each of which detects a change in the magnetic characteristic of an associated one of the magnetostrictive films. The magnetostrictive torque sensor is configured so that a bias magnetic field is added to the alternating magnetic field from a bias power supply 17 so as to satisfy the following conditions: Hm−Hin>−Hn where Hm (>0) is an applied magnetic field corresponding to a maximum magnetic permeability obtained according to a magnetic hysteresis curve 34 of the magnetostrictive film, which shows magnetization caused by the alternating magnetic field, Hn (>0) is an applied magnetic field corresponding to an end of a range in which a discontinuous magnetization is performed, and Hin (>0) is an applied magnetic field that determines a sensitivity range to be set on a magnetostrictive sensitivity curve representing a magnetostrictive sensitivity exhibited by the magnetostrictive film.
US07661320B2 Deformation sensor bearing comprising at least three strain gauges
The invention relates to a bearing comprising at least one system for determining the amplitude A of the pseudo-sinusoidal deformations of an area of the fixed race that are induced during rotation, the said system comprising at least three strain gauges (7), a device for measuring three signals Vi depending respectively on the temporal variations of the signal emitted by each gauge (8), the said device being able to form two signals SIN and COS respectively of like angle and like amplitude, and a device for calculating the amplitude A of the deformations of the area (7) as a function of time, the said device being designed to calculate the expression SIN2+COS2 so as to deduce the amplitude A therefrom.
US07661314B2 Method and system for defect investigation of component
One surface of a component is obliquely ensonified through a liquid or gaseous first medium with a checking sound beam produced by a transmission/reception transducer for defect investigation of the component. A response sound beam, which is reflected back from the surface to the transmission/reception transducer, is received and its delay time in the medium between the transmission/reception transducer and the surface is evaluated. The delay time in the medium determined in this way is taken into account for localization of a defect within the component.
US07661302B2 Multi-phase flow measurement system having a fluid separator
An apparatus for determining a characteristic of a fluid flow within a pipe is provided, wherein the apparatus includes a separating device for separating the fluid into a gas component and a liquid component and directing the gas component to flow within a gas leg portion of the pipe and the liquid component to flow within a liquid portion of the pipe. The apparatus includes a gas leg portion metering device for generating gas component data and a liquid leg portion metering device for generating liquid component data. Moreover, the apparatus includes a processing device communicated with at least one of the gas leg portion metering device and the liquid leg portion metering device, the processing device being configured to receive and process at least one of the gas component data and the liquid component data to generate fluid flow data responsive to a fluid flow characteristic.
US07661295B2 Method for coupling a gas chromatography device to an NMR spectrometer and associated apparatus
A method for coupling a gas chromatograph (21) to an NMR spectrometer, wherein the carrier gas present at the outlet of a separating column (23) of the gas chromatograph (21) including a sample contained in the carrier gas is supplied via a heated transfer line (1) to a collecting device (2) for the sample contained in the carrier gas, is characterized in that the carrier gas containing the sample is introduced into a collecting liquid (8) in the collecting device (2), and the sample is collected in the collecting liquid (8), wherein the collecting liquid (8) is suitable as an NMR solvent for the sample. The sample loss of the coupling method is reduced.
US07661294B2 Non-invasive multi-function sensor system
An integrated multi-function sensor system has a head having a slot to accept a tube of a deformable material and a plurality of sensor elements mounted in the walls of the head slot to confront a tube in the slot, each sensor element being for affecting sensing of a condition relating to a liquid in the tube. An integrated electronic circuit including a microprocessor operates to determine the various conditions of a liquid flowing in the tube sensed by the sensor elements, which conditions include detection of air bubbles and/or particles by ultrasonic sensing elements, detection of an occlusion in the liquid flow by sensing the deformation of the tube wall by a force sensing element, determining the temperature of the liquid by an infrared temperature sensing element, and determining the color of the liquid by optical elements.
US07661286B2 Method for producing a cup-shaped object
A method for the production of a cup-shaped article, in particular a blank of a screw cap for glass bottles or the like, from an enameled metal sheet, using two tools in a stepwise manner: 1) the blank is stamped from the metal sheet in a first tool by the relative motion between a cutting bell cooperating with a blank holder and a drawing block, and the blank is drawn around the drawing block, the width of a flange forming between the cutting bell and the blank holder being continuously reduced with a progressive degree of deformation until the flange reaches a defined width (R-r), and 2) the blank is deformed in a second tool such that the radially outwardly directed flange is deflected toward a profiling introduced in a wall of the blank.
US07661281B2 Method and device for shaping an orthodontic archwire
Methods and an apparatus for bending orthodontic wires are provided. An apparatus for bending an orthodontic wire can determine an optimal shape of a portion of an archwire to include a pair of nominal bends, apply an actual bend to the archwire at a location coinciding with the location of one of the pair of nominal bends, measure the actual bend applied, compare the actual bend to the nominal bend to determine an amount of deviation from that desired, determine corrective movements to substantially eliminate the deviation, iteratively reexecute such steps until the deviation is within a predefined tolerance, and recalculate a value of the other of the pair of nominal bends to compensate for any remaining deviation.
US07661278B1 Lock assembly capable of counting the number of times of unlocking operation
A lock assembly includes a housing, a shackle having a pivotal portion, which is disposed in the housing and axially moveable and pivotable, and a free end insertable into a top hole of the housing, and a latch movably disposed in the housing and engagable with the pivotal portion or the free end of the shackle. A key controlled lock unit is disposed in the housing and has a plug rotatable between an unlocked position where the latch can be disengaged from the shackle by a first arm, and a counter can be started by a second arm, and a locked position where the latch is engaged with the shackle.
US07661276B1 Evaporator
An evaporator (102) provides a compact design in which thermal energy can be removed from a DUT (108) in an efficient manner. The evaporator (102) can include a cover (306) which includes both input and output apertures for providing refrigerant into and out of the evaporator (102). An orifice plate (304) is located between the cover (306) and a heat exchanger (302). The heat exchanger (302) includes a plurality of pillars which help increase the surface area of the heat exchanger (302). The orifice plate (304) includes an aperture (310) which forms a nozzle which sprays refrigerant onto the heat exchanger in order to remove the heat away from the heat exchanger (302).
US07661273B2 Turbomachine with annular combustion chamber
Turbomachine with an annular combustion chamber including at its upstream end an annular chamber bottom, and attached at its downstream end by annular flanges to a radially inner casing and outer casing, wherein the upstream end of the chamber is connected to the inner casing or outer casing by elastically deformable bridges.
US07661269B2 Gas turbine burner
A turbine burner (1) comprising a secondary feed unit for the supply of a backup mixture and a primary feed unit intended for the supply of a primary mixture comprising lean gas, comprising a primary mixture channel (24). The primary mixture channel (24) has an annular wall (28) having a truncated cone-shaped end portion (30) capable of conveying the primary mixture directly to the combustion zone (6) facing the axial swirler (18), achieving efficient combustion even for primary mixtures comprising gases with a low calorific value.
US07661266B2 Method for braking a vehicle driven by means of a hydrostatic gearbox and also a hydrostatic drive
The invention relates to a method for braking a vehicle, driven by means of a hydrostatic gearbox (28) and a hydrostatic drive. The hydrostatic gearbox (28) comprises at least one adjustable hydrostatic motor (6,6). The vehicle driven by means of the hydrostatic gearbox (28) may be retarded by an operating brake. On recognition of a certain braking process, the hydraulic motor (6,6) is adjusted to a minimal pivot angle. On recognition of a termination of the certain braking process, the hydraulic motor (6,6) is adjusted to a pivot angle which matches the speed achieved after the braking process.
US07661260B2 Gas turbine engine assembly and method of assembling same
A method for assembling a gas turbine engine assembly includes coupling a fan assembly to a core gas turbine engine such that the fan assembly is upstream from the core gas turbine engine, coupling a low-pressure turbine downstream from the core gas turbine engine such, wherein the low-pressure turbine includes a disk and a plurality of splines formed in the disk, providing a shaft that includes a first end and a second end that includes a plurality of splines, coupling the shaft first end to the fan assembly, and coupling the shaft second end to the low-pressure turbine such that the shaft splines mesh with the disk splines such that torque is transmitted from the low-pressure turbine to the fan assembly via the shaft during engine operation.
US07661255B2 Lawn equipment minimal track wheel
A wheel for a piece of lawn equipment specifically designed not to produce tracks in the lawn as the lawn equipment moves over the lawn. The wheel is made of two parallel circular discs spaced apart by a center spacer. The two discs are relatively thin and thereby have minimal contact with the grass blades when rolling over the lawn. The height of the wheel and the diameter of the axle are sufficient so that glass blades on the lawn are not bent downward and extend upward between the two discs. An optional ring structure made of rubber or similar material is attached over the perimeter edge of each disc to provide greater traction and to protect the edge from damage. Located inside the wheel axle is an optional bushing or wheel bearing.
US07661253B2 Modular rotary cutterbar
A modular rotary cutter bed is formed by a series of essentially identical cutter modules mounted end-to-end along the length of a common support beam. Guards for the cutters of the modules are arranged such that each guard overlaps and bridges the seam between an adjacent pair of modules so as to increase the structural rigidity of the cutter bed. Each guard is attached at its front end to the noses of a pair of adjacent modules and at its rear end to the support beam to increase structural integrity in all directions. A second embodiment does not utilize a common support beam for the modules but instead relies upon the interconnections between adjacent modules and bridging overlap of the guards to rigidify the cutter bed.
US07661251B1 Header float system for use with an agricultural windrower or combine
An agricultural harvester includes a traction unit and a crop harvesting header coupled with the traction unit. The header includes a main frame with a right hand (RH) side and a left hand (LH) side. A RH gauge wheel is movably coupled with the RH side of the main frame, and a RH hydraulic cylinder is coupled between the RH gauge wheel and the main frame. A first hydraulic circuit is coupled with the RH hydraulic cylinder and configured to control an operating height of the RH gauge wheel. A LH gauge wheel is movably coupled with the LH side of the main frame, and a LH hydraulic cylinder is coupled between the LH gauge wheel and the main frame. A second hydraulic circuit is coupled with the LH hydraulic cylinder and configured to control an operating height of the LH gauge wheel. The second hydraulic circuit is independent from the first hydraulic circuit. A third hydraulic circuit is coupled with a vertical position hydraulic cylinder and configured to operate at a predetermined operating pressure, whereby a portion of the weight of the header is carried by the traction unit. The third hydraulic circuit is independent from each of the first hydraulic circuit and the second hydraulic circuit.
US07661245B2 Capping device with bearing mechanism having a plurality of bearing members between a drive member and a capper body
A capping device fits caps onto containers by applying an axial force to the caps as they are threaded onto the containers. The capping device utilizes a drive member rotatable about an operational axis for imparting rotation to a capper body slidably coupled to the drive member. A helical spring urges the capper body away from the drive member with a biasing force. A bearing mechanism allows relative free sliding movement of the capper body relative to the drive member. The bearing mechanism includes a plurality of bearing members. In one embodiment, the bearing members are bushings. In another embodiment, the bearing members are ball bearings.
US07661243B2 Apparatus for transporting rolls during packing
A method for moving paper, board and cellulosic web rolls in a roll packaging system comprising a plurality of roll handling stations. The system imports at least three rolls (10, 16, 17) via a receiving station (5), the rolls (10, 16, 17) are moved in the system by the use of a car (4) of an indexing conveyor, the car being adapted to move synchronously at each roll handling station, the car (4) is moved in a return motion when the indexing conveyor car (4) is in its lowermost position (elevation level −1), the rolls (10, 16, 17) are moved in synchronism forward to at least one station, e.g., the wrapping station (7) and to at least one other station (6 or 8 or 9), and at least one roll (10) is moved at one station (7) in the direction of the roll's longitudinal axis. All rolls (10, 16, 17) in the system are moved at least once synchronously having the indexing conveyor car (4) driven into its uppermost position (second elevation level 2), and at least one roll (10) is moved at one station (7) having the indexing conveyor car (4) driven into a vertical position (elevation level 1) situated at any level between the uppermost and the lowermost elevation level.
US07661242B2 Hollow structural component made of plural connected parts
A hollow structural component suitable for an aircraft structure includes an inner framework of intersecting longitudinal and transverse ribs, cover sheets covering the top and bottom of the framework, and end closure sheets covering ends of the framework. The transverse ribs have slots to receive the intersecting longitudinal ribs and vice versa, so the ribs intermesh in a grid pattern. Top and bottom edges of the ribs have protruding connector tabs that are fitted into slots provided in the cover sheets. Additional connector tabs at the ends of the transverse ribs are fitted into slots in the end closure sheets. After the parts are assembled by intermeshing the longitudinal and transverse ribs and fitting the connector tabs of the ribs into the slots of the cover sheets and end closure sheets, the resulting plugged-in joints are permanently mechanically secured, e.g. by welding, brazing, soldering or adhesive bonding.
US07661241B2 Universal staircase tool
A new and improved single tool or jig which is universally useable in connection with the fabrication or trimming of left and right side edge portions of stair tread components, left and right end portions of stair tread side edge plank components, and stair riser components, so as to permit all of such components to be properly mated together in order to impart to the exposed or open stair members a seamless finished appearance.
US07661240B2 Rooftop structure supporting stand
A roof top structure support has a flat bottom rigid base to be positioned on a roof and spread the load supported by the support substantially evenly over the surface of the base in contact with the roof. A tower rises from the base and includes a slot across the top thereof and a bore therein extending downwardly from the bottom of the slot and adapted to receive a threaded rod therein. The slot in the top of the tower is sized to receive a strut therein. A bolt extending through the strut and into the bore secures the strut to the support. Struts and other structures can be supported above the tower and slot by threaded rod such as “all thread” screwed into and extending from the bore.
US07661235B2 Modular panel system and method
Methods and systems are provided for an exterior covering capable of withstanding extreme wind loads. In one embodiment, a wind resistant exterior covering includes a first panel fastened to a substrate and a second panel fastened to the substrate. The second panel engages the first panel, and a clip fastened to the substrate is adapted and located to laterally restrain movement of the second panel with respect to the first panel. In another embodiment, a method of engaging panels of a modular exterior covering system includes coupling a protruding portion of a first panel with a respective receiving portion of a second panel. The coupling is such that the first panel is laterally restrained by the second panel and a clip, and the first panel is outwardly restrained by the receiving portion of the second panel.
US07661231B2 Concrete building system and method
A system of building concrete homes and apartment buildings. The system creates a structure that is well insulated and that is very practical and economical to build. The system uses standard components such as wall ties, concrete forms, rigid foam insulation, and concrete, all of which are readily available in the market today. The system creates a building that is insulated and thermally broken at its structural connections such that use in temperate and colder climates is possible. Presently concrete construction finds only limited use for the construction of single family and multi-family housing. The system is economical to construct when compared to wood frame housing.
US07661229B2 Electrical conductivity in a suspended ceiling system
A ceiling system including a grid framework having a plurality of grid elements arranged in a substantially horizontal plane. A conductive material is embedded in one of the plurality of grid elements. The grid element in which the conductive material is embedded includes at least one slot such that portions of the conductive material are exposed. A tap is attached to the grid element so that it is in alignment with the slot, and, in turn, with the conductive material. The tap includes a housing, a conductor engaging means and a tap conductor. The conductor engaging means forms a connection with the conductive material embedded in the grid element and the tap conductor.
US07661228B1 Armored building modules and panels
Panels and their modules, such as for walls and roofs, are disclosed that provide armored shelter for protecting people and equipment from ballistic projectiles and mortar attacks. Each module is made from multiple co-parallel plates arranged in a stack, spaced apart, and held together along their sides by side elements. This is done in such a way that, when assembled side-by-side or end-to-end into panels, adjacent modules overlap one another to prevent straight-through seams yet allow any damaged module to be removed and replaced without moving adjacent modules. Space within a module, between plates and sides, can contain energy absorbing material in a variety of shapes. Plates serve as structural flanges, and side elements comprise structural webs, to permit each module to function as a structural beam.
US07661223B2 Portable security device for fishing rods and reels
A device is provided for securing against crime-of-opportunity theft at least one fishing rod and reel to be stored or transported in an outdoor, unsecured area or on an open, unsecured portion of a vehicle, such as an open bed of a pick-up truck, trailer, or boat. The device includes: (a) a flexible webbing material, wherein the flexible webbing material has a generally bag-like shape with an open end; (b) a first cable and first lock operatively connected for closing and locking the open end of the flexible webbing material around a forward portion of a fishing rod protruding through the open end when at least the rear portion thereof is positioned inside the flexible webbing material, and (c) a second cable and second lock operatively connected for attaching and locking the flexible webbing material to a fixed structure in the open area or on the vehicle; wherein each of the flexible webbing material, the first cable for closing, and the second cable for attaching is resistant to cutting with a hand-held knife.
US07661213B2 Yard sign assembly
A durable yard sign assembly includes: (a) a central message panel including a lightweight, thermoplastic core, lightweight metallic front and rear face sheets, and a plurality of parallel panel apertures within the core; the front and rear face sheets being attached to opposite, front and rear sides of the core; each panel aperture extending from one end of the central panel to the opposite end; (b) two substantially rectangular side posts, each including an open upper end accessing an upper post hollow, each side post including at least two inside side post apertures on an inside wall, and at least one outside side post aperture on an outside wall; (c) at least two panel support rods, each extending through a different one of the panel apertures; (d) at least one pair of support rod connectors, each being connectable to an end portion of the at least two panel support rods; and (e) two removable upper end caps; wherein the yard sign assembly includes an unassembled position for storage or transport, and an assembled, rail-less position. A free-standing double sign is also described herein.
US07661212B2 Appliance for ironing or steaming linen, comprising a container for additive
The invention relates to an appliance for ironing or steaming linen, comprising a device which is used spread an additive over the linen and a container for said additive (20). The invention is characterized in that the additive container (20) comprises a substrate (22) bearing microcapsules and in that said microcapsules are carried progressively by a flow of fluid discharged by the device in order to spread the additive over the linen, said flow conveying the microcapsules outside of the appliance.
US07661211B2 Method and apparatus for raising a snow plow
A snowplow assembly includes an adjustment mechanism for use in adjusting the position of a snowplow frame member on a lift frame member into at least two positions: (1) a first position where the snowplow frame member is on the bottom portion of the lift frame member, the snowplow is positioned to plow snow, and the snowplow operation axis is substantially parallel to a ground surface; and, (2) a second position where the snowplow frame member is on the top portion of the lift frame member and the snowplow operation axis is at an angle A1 that is between 10° and 90° with respect to the ground surface.
US07661208B2 Shoe with writing surface
A shoe is provided with a writing surface so that temporary expressive indicia can be applied to the shoe. The writing surface is preferably in the form of a side surface of the shoe extending between a tread and a foot contacting surface of the shoe. The side surface is preferably formed of patent leather compatible with a dry erase marker provided as a writing implement. In a most preferred form of the invention, the shoe includes a bore which acts as a housing for the marker or other writing implement to conveniently store the writing implement when not in use. The bore or other housing also keeps the writing implement fresh by sealing the writing implement within the bore when not in use, especially when the writing implement is a dry erase marker.
US07661207B2 Snowshoe binding without heel strap
A snowshoe binding engages the sole of the user's boot in a region between the arch and the widest part of the sole, gripping the sole laterally and sufficiently firmly that the boot will not pull out of the binding during use of the snowshoe, even in the absence of a heel strap. The arch area of the boot typically is narrower in width than the ball of the foot, providing a rearwardly tapering region for positive engagement against pulling back of the boot in the binding. By engaging the boot at the sole, the binding can put pressure on the boot not felt by the user. In one form the sole engaging binding device has a width adjustment with a sliding element, and the firmly clamping sole engagement preferably is accomplished with a cam that engages when a strap is tightened. An efficient buckle and strap are also disclosed.
US07661197B2 Method of reading the outline of the bezel of a rim of an eyeglass frame
A method of reading the outline of the bezel of a rim of an eyeglass frame, includes contacting the bottom of the bezel and a feeler finger (9) belonging to a feeler (8) and pointing along a feeler axis (C) or with a feeler blade belonging to a feeler and extending in a feeler plane, and moving the feeler along the bezel In order to feel the bottom of the bezel by turning about an axis of rotation. The invention, the feeler blade or finger, at least when located in a temple zone of the rim of the frame, points obliquely towards the rim of the frame and towards its rear side that is to be placed facing the eyes of a wearer, such that its feeler axis or its feeler plane forms a non-zero feeler angle (A1) with a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the feeler.
US07661188B2 Method of manufacturing glass substrate for magnetic disk
In a manufacturing method of a glass substrate for a magnetic disk including a cleaning process of the glass substrate, the cleaning process includes a process of contacting the glass substrate with a cleaning solution containing a compound, such as thioglycolic acid or a thioglycolic acid derivative, having a thiol group as a functional group.
US07661178B2 Fastener adapter
A fastener adapter and fastener strap combination includes a first strap member having first and second ends, an outer surface and an inner surface with hook material; and a second strap member having first and second opposing surfaces of hook material. The second strap member is attached to the inner surface intermediately between the first and second ends of the first strap member. The first surface of the second member and a portion of the inner surface of the first member define a first all-hook opening. The second surface of the second member and a portion of the inner surface of the first member define a second all-hook surface. The combination also includes a continuous fastener strap having first and second end portions, the first end portion frictionally attached to the first all-hook opening and the second end portion frictionally attached to the second all-hook surface.
US07661167B2 Positioning member for securing movable jaw of adjustable wrench during surface grinding process
A positioning member is used to position the movable jaw to the sliding groove of the adjustable wrench and the adjustable wrench together with the positioning member are applied by vibrate grinding technology so as to make the outer surface of the movable jaw to be a mirror surface and the rod of the movable jaw is kept as the surface condition after being machine. The tolerance between the rod and the sliding groove is controlled within expected range.
US07661164B2 Collapsible gel articles
A tear and fatigue resistant gel article comprising two or more communicating internal volumes like cavities when depressed by external pressure or force is capable of collapsing unto itself in a controllable and directionally preselected manner by venting static air within said internal through openings in said gel article, said gel article is made from gel compositions having rigidity of from about 20 gram Bloom to about 1,800 gram Bloom suitable for cushioning and other uses.
US07661157B2 Portable crib or containment device
A portable travel crib, play yard or other infant or child containment device is provided. The device may have longitudinal support structures. The device may also have an upper peripheral support structure provides an outward compressive force.
US07661156B2 Portable folding play yard with stabilized corner posts
A folding play yard includes a collapsible play yard frame movable between a retracted stored position and a deployed position, wherein the frame defines a baby receiving portion in the deployed position with a floor and bordering side walls around the periphery of the floor, wherein the frame includes a plurality of corner posts forming at least a portion of a support for the side walls with the play yard in the deployed position, wherein the corner posts are constructed to remain substantially parallel to a vertical axis of the play yard as the play yard moves between the closed and the open position.
US07661154B2 Bathing chair with turnable seat
A bathing chair with a fixing device comprises a front frame and a rear frame, shaped like the inverted letter U, reaching across a bathtub and having horizontal rods which pass over an edge of the bathtub at a distance, the front and rear frames being connected by right and left connecting rods, a seat, having a fixed base mounted on the horizontal rods, an axis mounted on the fixed base in a central position thereof, and a rotatable base, which is rotatable around the axis, a bearing assembly, comprising several gliding blocks connected with the seat and allowing the seat to glide along the horizontal rods, and a handle.
US07665134B1 Profiling users based on artificially constructed deceptive content
Profiling a user is disclosed. The user's behavior with respect to specially designed content comprised of one or more units of content is monitored. The specially designed content is designed such that one or more characteristics of the user may be inferred based at least in part on the user's behavior with respect to the content. One or more characteristics of the user is/are inferred based at least in part on the user's behavior with respect to the specially designed content.
US07665125B2 System and method for distribution of security policies for mobile devices
In a particular embodiment, a wireless security system is disclosed. The wireless security system includes a client module deployed on a wireless device, a network module, and a server module. The client module is adapted to authenticate a wireless device while the wireless device is operating independently from the network module and the server module.In another embodiment, a method of distributing security policy information from a server to a mobile computing device is disclosed. The method includes authentication of a connection between the server and a gatekeeper, sending a policy package to the gatekeeper, initiating data synchronization between the mobile computing device and the gatekeeper, authenticating the mobile computing device, and sending the policy package from the gatekeeper to the mobile computing device.
US07665122B2 Authentication apparatus, method and program
An authentication apparatus for solving problems involving convenience and security is disclosed. The authentication apparatus according to the present invention is an authentication apparatus having a plurality of authentication mechanisms, the apparatus determining (S23) whether authentication information that has been input by a card reader for inputting authentication information of an object of authentication is that of a user who is capable of changing over the plurality of authentication mechanisms, displaying (S24) a list of the plurality of authentication mechanisms if it is determined that the user is capable of making the changeover, and registering (S26) the authentication mechanism, which has been selected in the display list, as the effective authentication mechanism.
US07665118B2 Server, computer memory, and method to support security policy maintenance and distribution
In a particular embodiment, a server module deployed on a server is disclosed. The server module is connected to a wireless network access node. The server module includes a database containing user information for multiple wireless devices. Each element in the database is attributable to at least one authorized wireless device and contains at least one type of data file from the following group: (i) wireless connectivity permissions, (ii) authorized wireless device identification, and (iii) authorized network access node information.
US07665116B2 Network architecture for real time delivery of video over lossy networks from remote locations
A method for content delivery comprising transmitting content via a first network to a content aggregation point and transmitting the content from the content aggregation point via a second network to a receiver at the request of the receiver. A system for content delivery comprising a content provider, a content aggregation point operatively coupled to the content provider via a first network wherein the content aggregation point receives content from the content provider, and a receiver operatively coupled to the content aggregation point via a second network wherein the receiver is configured to request content from the content aggregation point. Also disclosed are methods for improving the network functionality through in-band measurement of network statistics, multi-constraint based QoS routing, and back up path determination.
US07665113B1 Rate adaptive video transmission and synchronization system
The present invention, in particular embodiments, is directed to methods, apparatuses and systems directed to rate adaptive video transmission. In a particular implementation, the present invention provides a video server that delivers video frames received from a video source in response to video frame requests transmitted by one or more video clients. In such a configuration, video clients essentially pull video frames of a video stream at a rate adapted to various attributes of the client and/or the client application consuming the video stream, such as bandwidth available to the client the video client application requirements, and the like. Additional embodiments also provide for novel video data compression techniques that use client pull mechanisms to achieve an adaptive video streaming mechanism. In one implementation, only lower levels of a multi-resolution or wavelet video stream are requested to optimally utilize system bandwidth. In combination with client frame pull, a temporally and spatially scalable multi-resolution image codec, that utilizes wavelet compression, is realized. In yet another implementation, a differencing codec is utilized for compression wherein successive predictive frames are dependent on a reference frame. In combination with client frame pull, the differencing codec is also temporally and spatially scalable. Furthermore, the present invention provides an efficient way to transmit video over wired and wireless networks, particularly mixed networks that contain both wired and wireless networks.
US07665110B2 System and method for synchronous reproduction of local and remote content in a communication network
In accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, a reproduction engine for reproducing A/V data stored on an interactive DVD comprises a navigator connected to a temporary data storage unit for loading A/V data from the interactive DVD into a first section of the temporary data storage unit, and for loading enhanced data associated with the A/V data into a second section of the temporary data storage unit; a decoder for decoding the A/V data and the enhanced data loaded into the temporary data storage unit; and a presentation engine for reproducing the decoded A/V data and the enhanced data in accordance with control information stored on the interactive DVD.
US07665109B2 Electronic program guide with hyperlinks to target resources
An electronic programming guide (EPG) resides in a user interface unit memory and is executable on the processor of the user interface unit to organize programming information that is descriptive of the programs supplied over an interactive entertainment system. The EPG supports a user interface (UI) which visually correlates programs titles to scheduled viewing times. A hyperlink browser also resides in memory and is executable on the processor. One or more hyperlinks, which reference target resources containing interactive content related to the video programs, are integrated as part of the EPG UI. When a viewer activates a hyperlink within the EPG, the user interface unit launches the browser to activate the target resource specified by the hyperlink. The instruction might cause the visual display unit to tune to the program or channel represented by the particular label, or to initiate procedures to record the program when it begins playing, or to jump to a related target resource, such as a Web site.
US07665107B2 Viral advertising for interactive services
The subject invention provides a unique system and method that facilitates propagating selected advertisements among users of interactive services. Interactive service users can be targeted for specific types of advertisements for particular products or services. When a user selects at least one advertisement for more detailed viewing, the advertisement can be distributed to or shared with one or more other users. These other users may be part of the original user's social network. Thus user-selected advertisements can be shared among users who are familiar with each other's current or future interests. In some cases, user-selected advertisements can replace system-selected advertisements. As a result, advertisers can benefit from increased exposure of and interest in their advertisements.
US07665104B2 Content transmission system
In a conventional content transmission system, there has been a problem that it takes a long time from when a user, who tries to start viewing and listening of content, issues a command to a receiver by using a remote controller or the like until when the user can actually view and listen to the content from content viewing and listening equipment (content starting time). To this end, a content transmission system according to the present invention has a transmitter and a receiver including a human sensor and has a configuration that the state of the receiver is changed corresponding to a detection result of the human sensor so as to reduce the content starting time and power consumption.
US07665102B2 Heat-assisted magnetic recording method and test record reproduction method
A heat-assisted magnetic recording method is provided for implementing information recording on a recording magnetic film of a magnetic recording medium rotated around a rotation center. The method includes the steps of: illuminating a recording region in the magnetic film with a laser beam for locally heating the recording region; and applying a recording magnetic field to the heated recording region. The power of the laser beam illuminating the recording region is selected in accordance with the distance between the rotation center and the recording region.
US07665082B2 Methods and systems for adaptation, diagnosis, optimization, and prescription technology for network-based applications
The present invention adapts, diagnoses, optimizes, and prescribes a network-based application between a client and a host system. Some or all components of the network-based application, including configuration information may be installed on the client. The components and configuration information may be installed as the network-based application is executed. Alternatively, the components and configuration information may be installed in advance of the network-based application. To launch the network-based application, a user via the client sends an application request to the host system. The host system sends program code to the client. Upon executing the program code, the client attempts to establish a session with the host system and determines configuration information for the network-based application. Upon establishing the session and determining the configuration information, the client then launches the network-based application.
US07665079B1 Program execution method using an optimizing just-in-time compiler
It is one object of the present invention to provide a program execution method for performing greater optimization. A program execution apparatus according to the present invention performs a transfer from an interpreter process to a compiled code process in the course of the execution of a method. At this time, if no problem occurs when a transfer point is moved to the top of a loop, the transfer point for code is so moved. And when a transfer point is located inside a loop, a point that post-dominates the top of the loop and the transfer point is copied to a position immediately preceding the loop. Then, information for generating recalculation code is provided for the transfer point, and a recalculation is performed.
US07665078B2 Huffman-L compiler optimized for cell-based computers or other computers having reconfigurable instruction sets
A method for optimizing a code sequence by tuning the representations of an instruction set based on the frequency of operations performed by the code sequence. For example, the number of bit symbols used to represent a code sequence may be reduced using the present invention.
US07665075B1 Methods for sharing of dynamically compiled code across class loaders by making the compiled code loader reentrant
A method for sharing dynamically compiled code between different class loaders is provided. In this method, loader-reentrant compiled code is produced from bytecodes by generating native code implementing a class initialization barrier when compiling bytecodes that require a class to be initialized, by generating native code implementing a link resolution barrier when compiling bytecodes that require a symbolic link to be resolved, and by generating code to retrieve loader-dependent data from a loader-dependent table when compiling bytecodes that use data computed from a resolved symbolic link.
US07665072B2 Generating test cases for software with complex preconditions
Techniques and tools for generating test cases for methods or programs with input preconditions are described. For example, after finding feasible control flow paths for a tested method along with each path's associated input conditions, a new program is created which tests these conditions along with the precondition. By analyzing this new program's control flow graph, a class of test cases is found while avoiding inefficiencies created by doing complete searches of paths through the combined control flow graph of the precondition and the method. Additional efficiencies are introduced by partitioning a control flow graph for the precondition into branched and straight sections.
US07665071B1 Management object model for performing management of a computer system
A management system is provided for the generation of a management object model for performing management of a computer system. The object model includes a structured hierarchy of objects representing components of a computer system. The management system can include component modules operable to define mappings from instrumentation of the components to objects representing those components and configuration modules operable to configure associations between the component modules for the generation of the management object model.
US07665070B2 Method and apparatus for a computing system using meta program representation
A method (and apparatus) for executing a main program having a series of machine-executable instructions in one of a program binary representation and an object code representation, including establishing a first pipeline for executing the main program and establishing a second pipeline for executing a meta-program to at least one of fetch and store meta-program information of the executing of the main program and a result of an analysis of the executing the main program. The program binary representation or object code representation of the main program is not modified by establishing the second pipeline or by executing the meta-program.
US07665059B2 System and method for designing multiple clock domain circuits
A Hardware Description Language (HDL) utilizing a Term Rewriting System (TRS) is provided that simplifies handling of clocks, and signaling between various clock domains of a multi-clock domain circuit specification. A specific clock data type is supplied for use with clock signals. Using the clock data type, and other requirements of a circuit specification, clock domain crossing between domains of clocks of the same clock family is handled implicitly. For clock domain crossing between clock domains driven by clocks of different clock families, a “hardware approach” and a “linguistic approach” are provided. A “hardware approach” provides facilities to explicitly specify a synchronizer, using, in part, TRS rules. A “linguistic approach” allows a designer to abstracts the instantiation of synchronizers and instead specify a circuit specification in terms of differently clocked interfaces.
US07665052B1 Method and mechanism for performing timing aware via insertion
A method and system to insert redundant vias while preserving timing is disclosed. The system and method preserve the timing during redundant via insertion, which utilizes incremental timing and extraction updates. A budgeting based approach and a path based approach to the method are disclosed. The budgeting approach is faster, while the path based method has a better insight of the worst slack/slew for the entire design.
US07665044B1 Method and system for the condensed macro library creation
A method and a system to pre-scan a file, analyze data and create the Condensed Macro Library (CML) file. The method used is to find macros or cells of certain classes that are defined by rules. After a suitable macro or cell is identified, a parser scans the macro or cell pins and finds pins which have ports with the shapes defined on the specific layers defined by the rules and user data. Further processing is then performed based on a set of rules and the pin data to generate a CML file that contains relevant information regarding relevant pins.
US07665040B2 Information processing apparatus utilizing real image data
An information processing apparatus has a first section for specifying a selection range with respect to a real image displayed on a display screen, a second section for acquiring image data corresponding to the real image in the specified selection range, a third section for obtaining a spot specified by user based on an input item when the user inputs a specific item such as name and location by which the spot such as a facility can be determined, and a fourth section means for obtaining a display position of a real image of the obtained spot. Based on the obtained position, an area containing the real image of the spot specified by the user is specified as the selection range.
US07665028B2 Rich drag drop user interface
In an electronic file system, preview information is provided to the user during a drag operation of a selected object onto a target object. The information indicates what type(s) of action is to be taken should the selected object be dropped onto the target object. The action(s) to be taken may depend upon the type of the selected object and/or the type of the target object. For example, where the selected object is an item and the target object is a persisted auto-list, the action may include adding, removing, or modifying one or more properties of the selected object to conform to one or more criteria defined by the persisted auto-list. Also, numerical feedback may be provided to the user where multiple objects are selected. For example, where seven objects are selected, the textual number “7” may appear next to the cursor.
US07665021B2 System and method for script based event timing
An integrated and interactive real-time media creation system and method are disclosed that visually link the order and execution of media events to a scrolling on-screen text script that is spoken. As the user speaks, the on-screen text script scrolls under user control. Adjacent to the script text are visual images which represent associated media events. The visual images maintain a constant relative spatial relationship with the text. When the text reaches a predetermined region of the screen it is spoken out loud by the user and the media events are caused to occur at that time. The invention allows a single user with a single personal computer to easily self-produce a multimedia presentation of undetermined and variable length, featuring media events appropriately inserted in real-time without the assistance of a director or other operator.
US07665020B2 Method and system for providing multiple levels of help information for a computer program
A method and system for providing help information for a computer program. The help system provides help information based on a schema that specifies the structure of a valid computer program. The schema provides definitions of program element types that are specific instances of a program element type derived from more general program element types. The help system identifies a “derivation” of program element types relating to the selected program element. The help system then displays the derivation to the user. The user can then select to display documentation associated with the displayed program element types.
US07665019B2 Method for recording and replaying operations in a computer environment using initial conditions
A method for recording and replaying operations in a computer environment utilizes initial conditions of the computer environment at the start of a recording to configure a replay computer environment during replay. The initial conditions of the computer environment are saved prior to recording of user inputs to the computer environment. The saved initial conditions and the recorded user inputs can then be used to actively operate the replay computer environment from a state substantially identical to the initial state of the computer environment to replay the recorded operations in the replay computer environment. The replay computer environment may be a copy of a current computer environment from which a replay of the recorded operations has been initiated.
US07665016B2 Method and apparatus for virtualized XML parsing
A method and apparatus for performing virtualized parsing of an XML document. A document is divided into multiple segments, which may correspond to separate packets containing portions of the document, disk blocks, memory pages, etc. For each segment, a processor operating within an XML accelerator initiates parsing by identifying to a hardware parsing unit the document segment, a symbol table for the document and a location for storing state information regarding the parsing. Each segment is parsed in sequence, and the state information of the parsing is stored after each segment is completed, for retrieval when the next segment is to be parsed.
US07665014B2 Method and apparatus for generating forms using form types
A method, computer readable medium and system are provided which generate model driven forms that represent data models. Using the method, to generate a form that represents a data model, such as a business model, a selection is made to identify which of a plurality of different logical form types is to be used to generate the form to represent the data model. Then, a logical form is generated at run-time using the data model and the selected logical form type.
US07665012B2 Impulse noise mitigation
In a signal transmission medium such as an ac power line, impulse noise in the line may be dealt with by detecting impulse noise in the transmission medium, determining whether the impulse noise is periodic or complex, and, at least approximately, correlating the time at which periodic impulse noise occurs in the transmission medium to the phase of the ac power line frequency. One or more noise mitigation techniques may be applied with respect to the impulse noise. Methods also include predicting at least the approximate time of the next periodic noise impulse, and at least its approximate occurrence in the phase of the ac power line frequency. Methods also address impulse noise in complex impulse conditions.
US07665009B2 Device, data sector, method of processing data, and signal-bearing medium embodying program of device
A device for processing data read from a memory, the data including a word and a parity element with respect to the word, the device including a data recovery circuit that corrects error data in the word using a correction code generated from the parity element.
US07664979B2 Method for adjusting monitor clock phase that selects scaler threshold voltage corresponding to period having reference number of pulses
An exemplary method for adjusting clock phase of a monitor includes: setting a reference threshold voltage, when an input voltage of image signals is greater than the reference threshold voltage, a scaler begins to receive clock phases generated by a Phase Locked Loop; dividing the clock phase into a plurality of equal periods, recording a corresponding input voltage at each point dividing two adjacent period, and setting the corresponding input voltage as a threshold voltage of the next period; recording a quantity of the clock pulses in each period; evaluating whether a period of the clock phase is a regular period according to whether the quantity of clock pulse in the period is equal to a reference quantity or not, while the input voltage is generating retardation; and selecting the input voltage of the image signals corresponding to a regular period as a threshold voltage of the scaler.
US07664977B2 System and method for cooling a CPU passively
The present invention provides a method for cooling a CPU. The method includes the steps of: setting a passive cooling mode; setting a critical temperature and a reference temperature that is lower than the critical temperature; setting a plurality of temperature intervals between the reference temperature and the critical temperature; predetermining a duty cycle corresponding to each temperature interval; detecting a current temperature of the CPU; comparing the current temperature with the reference temperature and the critical temperature; entering into the passive cooling mode if the current temperature is between the reference temperature and the critical temperature; confirming which temperature interval the current temperature falls in; confirming a corresponding predetermined duty cycle according to the temperature interval; and switching the CPU between a working status and a sleeping status according to the confirmed predetermined duty cycle. A related system is also disclosed.
US07664970B2 Method and apparatus for a zero voltage processor sleep state
Embodiments of the invention relate to a method and apparatus for a zero voltage processor sleep state. A processor may include a dedicated cache memory. A voltage regulator may be coupled to the processor to provide an operating voltage to the processor. During a transition to a zero voltage power management state for the processor, the operational voltage applied to the processor by the voltage regulator may be reduced to approximately zero and the state variables associated with the processor may be saved to the dedicated cache memory.
US07664966B2 Secure storage on recordable medium in a content protection system
An application on a computing device to write data to a storage medium associated therewith. The data is to be written to a secure storage area associated with an object on the storage medium, and the secure storage area has a value storage area associated therewith. The application generates a nonce and employs a shared session key (KS) to encrypt the nonce to result in (KS(nonce)). The storage medium receives same and decrypts with (KS) to result in the nonce, locates the value storage area associated with the secure storage area, and stores such nonce in the located value storage area. The application employs the nonce to generate a key (KH), encrypts the data with (KH) to result in (KH(data)), and sends same to the storage medium for storage in the secure storage area. Thus, (KH(data)) is associated with the nonce in the value storage area.
US07664965B2 Method and system for bootstrapping a trusted server having redundant trusted platform modules
Multiple trusted platform modules within a data processing system are used in a redundant manner that provides a reliable mechanism for securely storing secret data at rest that is used to bootstrap a system trusted platform module. A hypervisor requests each trusted platform module to encrypt a copy of the secret data, thereby generating multiple versions of encrypted secret data values, which are then stored within a non-volatile memory within the trusted platform. At some later point in time, the encrypted secret data values are retrieved, decrypted by the trusted platform module that performed the previous encryption, and then compared to each other. If any of the decrypted values do not match a quorum of values from the comparison operation, then a corresponding trusted platform module for a non-matching decrypted value is designated as defective because it has not been able to correctly decrypt a value that it previously encrypted.
US07664954B2 Providing apparatus, providing method, communication device, communication method, and program
A providing apparatus that provides information required for a secure communication to first and second devices includes a receiving unit for receiving candidates for parameters used for the secure communication from the first and second devices; a generating unit for generating the information required for the secure communication based on the candidates for the parameters received from the first and second devices; and a transmitting unit for transmitting the information required for the secure communication, generated by the generating unit, to the first and second devices.
US07664953B2 Data processing device, method of same, and program of same
A data processing device, in a system performing authentication among a plurality of storage device (IC cards etc.), able to maintain security of authentication at other device even when secrecy of key data held by part of the devices is lost, wherein a key generation unit generates individual key data unique to an IC card based on identification data unique to the IC cards received from the ICs of the IC cards and a card processing unit performs mutual authentication with the IC based on the individual key data.
US07664946B2 System and method of guaranteed anonymity of cable television viewership behavior
A system and method for permitting viewership behavior on a cable television system, or satellite system, to be analyzed while guaranteeing the anonymity of the individual viewers. Using this system and method, the content of the message initiated by a consumer device, that is configured to receive television programming content, cannot be known by the cable operator even though the cable operator can identify the source of the message; alternatively, the entity that analyzes viewership behavior cannot know the source of the message but can know the content of the message.
US07664945B2 Computer system for booting a diskless server after a fault by reading a boot loader from a maintenance logical unit and identifying a boot file based on identifier of diskless server
In investigating the cause of a fault in a computer storage system, it is considered useful to previously prepare maintenance logical units (LUs) of a simple structure, the operation of which has been confirmed. If the same number of LUs as servers are prepared for each server as in the prior art, the efficiency is low. Furthermore, securing these LUs complicates assignment of the LUs for construction of a system and a work for addressing the fault. The present invention provides a computer system free of these problems. The computer system has a first computer for executing a first OS (operating system), a second computer for executing a second OS, and a storage array system. The storage array system uses a disk device having a logical unit (LU) for storing a boot loader, as well as the first and second OSes. The boot loader is executed on any one of the two computers, reads in any of the OSes corresponding to the currently operating computer into this operating computer, and executes the read OS.
US07664929B2 Data processing apparatus with parallel operating functional units
A program of instruction words is executed with a VLIW data processing apparatus. The apparatus comprises a plurality of functional units capable of executing a plurality of instructions from each instruction word in parallel. The instructions from each of at least some of the instruction words are fetched from respective memory units in parallel, addressed with an instruction address that is common for the functional units. Translation of the instruction address into a physical address can be modified for one or more particular ones of the memory units. Modification is controlled by modification update instructions in the program. Thus, it can be selected dependent on program execution which instructions from the memory units will be combined into the instruction word in response to the instruction address.
US07664924B2 System and method to secure a computer system by selective control of write access to a data storage medium
A system and method to securing a computer system from software viruses and other malicious code by intercepting attempts by the malicious code to write data to a storage medium. The invention intercepts the write access requests made by programs and verifies that the program is authorized to write before letting the write proceed. Authorization is determined by using the identity of the program as a query element into a database where permission values are stored. Depending on the presence or value of the permission value, write access is permitted or denied. Permission values can be set by the user, downloaded from a central server, or loaded into the central server by a group of users in order to collectively determine a permission value. The interception code can operate in kernel mode.
US07664922B2 Data transfer arbitration apparatus and data transfer arbitration method
When a concentration of access requests on a specific bank occurs, the delay time is caused due to the competition among the accesses, thereby lowering the processing speed of an information processing apparatus as a whole. A data transfer arbitration unit 172 sequentially transfers data to be recorded to a memory controller 160 that records data in memory having a plurality of banks. A selector 174 selects any DMAC 170 from among a plurality of DMACs, irrespective of priority sequence of transfer service for the DMAC. A transmitter 176 transmits, to a control-side transfer unit 114, data requested to be transferred by the selected DMAC 170. The selector 174 selects consecutively the DMAC 170 so that the transfer service for the same DMAC is consecutively executed, and determines the number of consecutive selections so that a transfer across the banks of the DMAC 170 occurs by a plurality of the transfer services.
US07664920B2 Microprocessor with improved data stream prefetching
A microprocessor includes a hierarchical memory subsystem, an instruction decoder, and a stream prefetch unit. The decoder decodes an instruction that specifies a locality characteristic parameter. In one embodiment, the parameter specifies a relative urgency with which a data stream specified by the instruction is needed rather than specifying exactly which of the cache memories in the hierarchy to prefetch the data stream into. The prefetch unit selects one of the cache memory levels in the hierarchy for prefetching the data stream into based on the memory subsystem configuration and on the relative urgency. In another embodiment, the prefetch unit instructs the memory subsystem to mark the prefetched cache line for early, late, or normal eviction according to its cache line replacement policy based on the parameter value.
US07664916B2 Global smartcard cache methods and apparatuses
Methods and apparatuses are provided for use with smartcards or other like shared computing resources. A global smartcard cache is maintained on one or more computers to reduce the burden on the smartcard. The global smartcard cache data is associated with a freshness indicator that is compared to the current freshness indicator from the smartcard to verify that the cached item data is current.
US07664914B2 Hierarchical control apparatus of hierarchical storage system and method for maintaining and managing duplexed media
A control unit of a hierarchical control apparatus holds information in which one of duplexed library apparatuses is set as a master and the other is set as a slave for each medium in each of the duplexed library apparatuses, and statistical information about each of the library apparatuses. The control unit includes an automatic redundant copy unit detecting that a statistical information of a medium reaches a predetermined amount, replacing the medium with a free medium, and copying data to the free medium, a master/slave setting unit setting the medium to which the data is copied and the other medium as a master or a slave such that a load is even between the duplexed library apparatuses according to the statistical information, and a unit copying and reading the requested data to the disk array apparatus by prioritizing one of the duplexed library apparatuses including the medium set as a master when there is no requested data in the disk array apparatus.
US07664908B2 Semiconductor memory device and operating method of the same
A semiconductor memory device adapted to burst transmission is provided for improving flexibility of data write operation. The semiconductor memory device is composed of a memory array, a set of write registers, and an input buffer designed to sequentially receive a series of write data during a burst cycle, and to write the write data into the associated write registers. The device also includes a write release register containing a set of write release flags associated with the write registers, respectively, and a write release register controller asserting the associated write release flags in response to the write data being written into the associated write registers. The device also contains a write amplifier designed to concurrently write the write data contained in the write registers associated with the asserted write release flags, selectively, when the burst cycle is aborted in response to a control signal.
US07664905B2 Page stream sorter for poor locality access patterns
In some applications, such as video motion compression processing for example, a request pattern or “stream” of requests for accesses to memory (e.g., DRAM) may have, over a large number of requests, a relatively small number of requests to the same page. Due to the small number of requests to the same page, conventionally sorting to aggregate page hits may not be very effective. Reordering the stream can be used to “bury” or “hide” much of the necessary precharge/activate time, which can have a highly positive impact on overall throughput. For example, separating accesses to different rows of the same bank by at least a predetermined number of clocks can effectively hide the overhead involved in precharging/activating the rows.
US07664898B2 Method and system for efficient framing on addressed buses
A framing mechanism may be provided that enables passing of messages over an addressed bus. This creates a form of information hiding, which passes information by converting an addressed bus interface to a message-based bus interface. Address-based information in a transaction may be replaced with additional information that specifies framing details comprising, for example, a check pattern and length information. The check pattern provides a mechanism for determining whether frame information may be valid. An end device may utilize this length information to determine an actual length of an incoming frame. The combination of the check pattern and the length information may provide a pattern for resynchronizing a data stream when errors are detected. The framing mechanism may operate over existing addressed buses without requiring host side controller hardware modifications and additional host side software driver may be utilized to add the framing information.
US07664894B2 Wireless human interface device (HID) coordination
A method relating to wireless human interface device (HID) coordination is disclosed. A first human interface device (HID) is wirelessly coupled to two or more computing devices, wherein the first HID is configured to toggle between interactions with each of the two or more computing devices. An inquiry or paging message is broadcast to one or more HIDs, including a second HID wirelessly coupled to the two or more computing devices, wherein the second HID is configured to receive and provide a response to the inquiry or paging message. The second HID is located based on the response to the inquiry or paging message. A wireless link is established between the first HID and the second HID based on the locating, wherein the first HID is configured to coordinate, via the wireless link, interactions with the two or more computing devices by both the first HID and the second HID based on the toggle.
US07664893B2 Media drive control system and method
Media drive control system and method. The media drive control system comprises a player console, a user operation filter, and a plurality of playback management devices. The player console provides an instant user operation (UOP) according to a received user command. The user operation filter comprises a queue and a management device. The queue receives and stores a plurality of UOPs, and outputs stored UOPs as control instructions on a first-in-first-out basis. The management device determines whether the queue is full. If the queue is full, the management device discards at least one of the stored UOPs prior to storing the instant UOP in the queue. Each playback management device receives control instructions for controlling corresponding playback devices.
US07664891B2 Modular data transfer architecture
A system on chip (SoC) integrated circuit includes a plurality of computational blocks. A modular data transfer architecture interconnects the computational blocks for intra-chip communications. The computational blocks include an initiator block and a target block, with the initiator block originating a data communication having a global address associated with the target block. The modular data transfer architecture includes a first peripheral module having an initiator port connected to the initiator block to receive the data communication and a second peripheral module having a target port connected to the target block. A first port mapper within the first peripheral module maps the global address to a first peripheral module target port along a data path towards the second peripheral module. A second port mapper within the second peripheral module maps the global address to the target port connected to the target block. The modular data transfer architecture further includes a plurality of internal modules support intra-chip communications. Each internal module has a plurality of initiator ports connected to target ports of other modules and a plurality of target ports connected to initiator ports of other modules. An internal port mapper for each internal module maps the global address to a certain internal module target port along the data path towards the second peripheral module.
US07664890B2 System control device
A system control device comprises a system LSI section having a plurality of functional blocks, a system control microcomputer section for controlling the control register of each of the functional blocks, an address decoding section for decoding an access address to a predetermined byte in a control register which the system control microcomputer section attempts to access, and issuing an access control signal to the whole of a single control register including the predetermined byte, an access control section for changing the access control signal to the whole of the single control register to an access control signal to the predetermined bytes of the plurality of control registers included in the system LSI section, with respect to access to an address to the predetermined byte, and an access mode control register for indicating whether or not the changing by the access control section is to be performed.
US07664880B2 Lightweight address for widely-distributed ADHOC multicast groups
Delivery of a message over a communications network from a sender based on a single delivery address. The single delivery address is generated as one unit for the message. The single delivery address has a collection of recipient addresses including one or more recipient addresses each identifying at least one recipient of the message. Each of the one or more recipient addresses includes a user level information and a domain level information. The generated single delivery address with the collection of recipient addresses is included in the message. A copy of the message is provided to the identified recipient(s) as a function of the domain level information of the one or more recipient addresses. The message is transmitted over the communications network to the identified recipient(s) recipient based on the collection of recipient addresses.
US07664879B2 Caching content and state data at a network element
Methods are disclosed for caching content and state data at a network element. In one embodiment, data packets are intercepted at a network element. An application layer message, which specifies a request for specified data from a server application, is determined from the data packets. A first portion of the specified data contained in the network element's cache is determined. A message that requests a second portion of the data not contained in the cache is sent toward a server application. A first response that contains the second portion, but not the first portion, is received. A second response, which contains the first and second portions, is sent toward a client application.In one embodiment, data packets are intercepted at the network element. An application layer message, which specifies session or database connection state information, is determined from the data packets. The state information is cached at the network element.
US07664874B2 Node capable of saving a third-layer operation
In a node having first, second, and third layers, a packet (or a cell) is mapped in the first layer. The first layer judges whether the packet (or the cell) is to be dropped at the node or to be hopped to a next node. The first layer transmits the packet to the third layer through the second layer when the first layer judges that the packet is to be dropped at the node. The first layer transmits, when the first layer judges that the packet is to be hopped to the next node, the packet to the next node by making the packet cut through the first layer.
US07664872B2 Media transfer protocol
A computer device selected as a media server is connected to a consumer electronic (CE) device over multiple media transfer channels. The multiple media transfer channels together with an improved media transfer protocol allow for efficient, real-time transfer of different types of digital media, in various combinations, for playing on the CE device. Each type of media is transferred over its own dedicated channel according to its individual data rate. The improved media transfer protocol allows the data to be transmitted in either an asynchronous mode or a synchronous stream or timestamp mode depending on whether synchronization is desired. A dedicated control channel allows for the transfer of control information from the CE device to the media server as well as for resynchronizing media position of the server upon a change in play mode of the corresponding media.
US07664863B2 Data transferring method
The data transfer between an initiator and a target, interconnected over an IEEE1394 interface, is to be improved in efficiency. At the time of login, the buffer information of the targets 11 to 14 is acquired by an initiator 10. Based on the buffer information, acquired by the initiator 10, a data transfer table, at least including the node ID information of the targets 11 to 14, address information of the buffer memory and the data transmission/receipt specifying information for specifying the transmission or receipt of the data, is formulated. The data transfer table, formulated by the initiator, is supplied to each target. When a signal instructing the transfer of the data is input, handshaking is performed between the initiator 10 and the targets 11 to 14, based on the predetermined information appended to the transfer protocol of the interface, to effect the data transfer based on the data transfer table.
US07664862B2 Browser-based proxy server for customization and distribution of existing applications
A system, method and computer program product for executing at least one client computer software application by embedding a web browser in a proxy server, thereby forming a proxy browser. The proxy browser is used to execute the application inside the proxy server. In one embodiment of the invention, each client browser that connects to the proxy server is assigned an instance of the proxy browser and session information is maintained for the client browser. When the client browser makes a request to the proxy server, the request is linked to the instance of the proxy browser.
US07664856B2 Dynamically balancing user experiences in a multi-user computing system
A media experience policy engine includes three components: an information manager, a policy evaluator, and an enforcement module. The information manager collects information regarding the current state of a media delivery system, such as, for example, usage of a CPU, memory, hard disk, (I/O) interface, and a network. This collected data is then verified by the policy evaluator to see if resource contention is, or is close to, occurring. If so, existing or potential conflicts are dealt with by the enforcement module, which applies corrections, such as, for example, limiting the access of later chronologic users, or degrading the user experience of all users, in accordance with a desired policy in order to vitiate the resource contention and maintain a user experience consistent with the desired policy.
US07664853B2 Automatically infering and updating an availability status of user
A system, system, and program for automatically inferring and updating an availability status of a user are provided. At least one current activity of a user is detected, where the current activity includes at least one system level event within a computer environment accessible to the user. A current availability status for a particular communication request is inferred from the current activity of the user in view of multiple availability rules, where the multiple availability rules map current activity to multiple possible availability statuses. In addition, inference of the current availability status is determined based on the identity of the requester of communication with the user, where the multiple availability rules map the requester identity in combination with the current activity to multiple availability rules. Output of the current availability status is controlled, such that the requester of the particular communication request is notified of an availability of the user to respond to the particular communication request.
US07664851B2 Systems, methods, and computer products for an event-driven network service switching utility
Systems, methods, and computer products for event driven and timer-driven network service switching. Exemplary embodiments include a network-switching method, including establishing a connection with a network via a network adapter, monitoring the adapter for a connection status with the network, generating a first block of network traffic over the network adapter and blocking a second block of network traffic over the network adapter.
US07664850B2 System for measuring communication quality and method thereof
A system for measuring a communication quality and a method thereof are disclosed. The system includes: a first communication quality measuring unit for requesting a second communication quality measuring unit to transmit a test traffic, measuring a communication quality from the test traffic received from the second communication quality measuring unit as a response of the request, and controlling a generation frequency and an amount of test traffic for a next communication quality measuring stage by analyzing the measured communication quality; and the second communication quality measuring unit for generating a test traffic by controlling a generation frequency and an amount of the test traffic according to a request of the first communication quality measuring unit.
US07664835B2 Communication control unit and communication control method
A communication control unit receives destination terminal identification information and communication software from a source communication terminal. The communication control unit installs software. Address information of another communication control unit is acquired from an externally located apparatus. The another communication control unit can be connected to a destination communication terminal corresponding to the destination terminal identification information. The destination terminal identification information and software identification information uniquely identifying the installed software is transmitted to an address of the another communication control unit included in the address information. Software identification data is transmitted to the another communication control unit. Software corresponding to the software identification data is received and installed to control a network connection of the another communication control unit.
US07664829B2 Document managing system, document managing apparatus and document managing method
A document managing system is provided with a plurality of document managing apparatuses each configured to retrieve a document stored in a storage according to a document ID and to judge whether or not an operation with respect to the retrieved document is possible according to a user ID that is generated with respect to each document managing apparatus, and a user ID generating apparatus provided externally to the document managing apparatuses and configured to generate a common user ID that is used in common among each of the document managing apparatuses. Each document managing apparatus has an export and import part configured to export and import data of an arbitrary document and an access control list (ACL).
US07664824B2 System for transmission/reception of e-mail with attached files
A mail gateway generates an identifier for each attached file included in the e-mail addressed to a user and held in a mail server, and notifies a mail terminal belonging to the user of a list of generated IDs. When the user selects attached files that the user wants to attach to the e-mail from the list of IDs that is notified from the mail gateway, the mail gateway constructs e-mail including the selected attached files and the mail server transmits the constructed e-mail to addresses of the receivers of the e-mail.
US07664821B1 Systems and methods for determining communication chains based on messages
A pool of messages, e.g., e-mails and/or other electronic documents that each correspond to a communication from a sender to a recipient, is analyzed to identify communication chains between a source and a target. Sender and recipient identifiers extracted from the messages are used to detect communication links between pairs of entities. Indirect chains of any desired length can be found by iteratively tracing a communication path one step forward from the source, then one step backward from the target, and so on; at each new step, entities at end points of the forward paths and backward paths are compared to detect any entities that complete a communication chain from source to target. Information related to the identified communication chains can be presented to a user via an interactive report that supports iterative analysis of the communication-chain data.
US07664819B2 Incremental anti-spam lookup and update service
The present invention provides a unique system and method that facilitates incrementally updating spam filters in near real time or real time. Incremental updates can be generated in part by difference learning. Difference learning involves training a new spam filter based on new data and then looking for the differences between the new spam filter and the existing spam filter. Differences can be determined at least in part by comparing the absolute values of parameter changes (weight changes of a feature between the two filters). Other factors such as frequency of parameters can be employed as well. In addition, available updates with respect to particular features or messages can be looked up using one or more lookup tables or databases. When incremental and/or feature-specific updates are available, they can be downloaded such as by a client for example. Incremental updates can be automatically provided or can be provided by request according to client or server preferences.
US07664816B2 Multi-participant online activities
Multi-participant online activities are described. In one or more implementations, a protocol is described which ties an online activity (e.g., an online game) to an instant messaging infrastructure. For example, an online game may leverage the instant messaging infrastructure to form rosters of participants for participation in the online game, Once the roster is formed, the instant messaging infrastructure may further manage the presence of the participants in the online activity, such as which users join and cease participation in the online activity and notify other users of these changes. Further, the state of participation in the online activity may be stored such that the users may continue between sessions.
US07664812B2 Phonetic filtering of undesired email messages
Several embodiments, among others, provided in the present disclosure teach a filtering of email messages for spam based on phonetic equivalents of words found in the email message. In some embodiments, an email message having a word is received, and a phonetic equivalent of the word is generated. Thereafter, the phonetic equivalent of the word is tokenized to generate a token representative of the phonetic equivalent. The generated token is then used to determine a spam probability.
US07664793B1 Transforming unrelated data volumes into related data volumes
Disclosed is an apparatus and method for transforming unrelated data volumes into related data volumes. The present invention is employed after creation of first and second unrelated data volumes. In one embodiment, the second data volume is refreshed to the data contents of the first data volume so that the second data becomes a PIT copy of the first data volume. Refreshing the second data volume includes overwriting all data of the second data volume with data copied from the first data volume. However, before all data of the second data volume is overwritten with data copied from the first data volume, data of the first data volume can be modified.
US07664779B1 Processing of a generalized directed object graph for storage in a relational database
A method, computer program product, and system for creating transaction instructions. A description of a set of objects is received. For each of at least a subset of objects in the set of objects, a description of one or more associated relationships is received. The description of the set of objects and the descriptions of the one or more associated relationships for each object in the at least a subset of the set of objects are processed to create an ordered list of transaction instructions for storing the set of objects and the one or more associated relationships for each object in the at least a subset of the set of objects.
US07664767B2 System and method for geographically organizing and classifying businesses on the world-wide web
A method and search engine for classifying a source publishing a document on a portion of a network, includes steps of electronically receiving a document, based on the document, determining a source which published the document, and assigning a code to the document based on whether data associated with the document published by the source matches with data contained in a database. An intelligent geographic- and business topic-specific resource discovery system facilitates local commerce on the World-Wide Web and also reduces search time by accurately isolating information for end-users. Distinguishing and classifying business pages on the Web by business categories using Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes is achieved through an automatic iterative process.
US07664762B2 Semantically aware relational database management system and related methods
A semantically aware relational database management system includes suitable programming to relate attributes of the relational database to semantic equivalents of such attributes. In response to receiving a query, the relational database management system performs at least one semantically aware operation on the data in the relational database in order to determine what data is to be retrieved in response to the query. Results of the query presented to a user may include data derived from performing the semantically aware operations.
US07664757B1 Multiply-integrated system for product inventory, sales, and distribution
A multiply-integrated system for inventory, sales, and distribution of products comprises a supplier database, an order database, and a programmed order processor. The supplier database includes inventory/pricing information for multiple independent participating product suppliers, which may include: product manufacturers, distributors, and/or retailers. The order database includes order information received by the multiple participating product suppliers from multiple independent product purchasers. The multiple product purchasers may include any or all of: product manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and/or purchasers. The order processor is linked to the databases and programmed for implementing a multiply-integrated method comprising the steps of: a) receiving/entering pricing/inventory information for the supplier database; b/c) receiving/entering order information for multiple product purchasers into the order database; d) searching for ordered products available from a supplier; e) issuing instructions for delivery of each ordered and located product; f) updating the order database; and g) creating a financial accounting record for delivered products.
US07664756B1 Configuration management database implementation with end-to-end cross-checking system and method
A system for end-to-end configuration management is provided. The system includes, a server component, a network component, an application component, a resources component, and a services component each operable to identify servers, communication network hardware, applications, human resources, and services, respectively, of the enterprise. The system further includes a management component operable to identify an end-to-end relationship between at least some of the communication network hardware to at least some of the servers, and from at least some of the servers to at least some of the applications, and from at least some of the applications to at least some of the human resources, and from at least some of the applications to at least some of the services.
US07664753B2 Standing order database search system and method for internet and intranet application
An internet and/or intranet based database search system and method for conducting searches of highly confidential records such as individual patient medical records and to automate the process of securing required approvals to make such records available to a properly authorized and authenticated requesting party. The system's central premise is that the patient has a fundamental right to the confidentiality of their personal medical records and should control that right through specific, informed consent each time that a party requests to receive them. It reinforces the widely held conception of privacy in general as well as of the sanctity of the doctor/patient relationship by granting the doctor the right, subject to the patient's express permission, to initiate a search request. At the same time, it provides an expedited and cost-efficient means for transfer of such records as demanded by many healthcare reform proposals and gives the repositories where these records are held the right to stipulate the specific terms and conditions that must be fulfilled before they will release litigation alleging breaches of patient confidentiality. And it carries out all of documents entrusted to their care, thereby substantially reducing the risk of these legitimate interests in a way that is fast, simple to use and easy to audit. The system optionally includes a billing mechanism to pay for any added cost associated with providing this additional protection; and in its preferred embodiment, is applicable to both digital as well as non-digital records.
US07664751B2 Variable user interface based on document access privileges
Users may be presented with different viewing interfaces for a document based on a combination of factors relating to display rights possessed for the document and user specific information. In one implementation, the user's location is used to determine portions of the document that can be displayed to the user. More particularly, access privileges to a document for a user are determined based on geographical location information of the user and based on access rights possessed for the document. Portions of the document may then be formatted for display to the user based on the determined access privileges.
US07664737B2 Method for generating documents using layer-specific inheritance rules
Audience specific document targeted at a particular media type are generated by accessing data from an audience hierarchy. When obtaining a data value for a particular audience, if that value does not exist for that audience then the audience hierarchy may be utilized to find the data value for an inherited audience. By adding regional, cultural or regulatory subdivisions within the audience hierarchy and inheriting large portions of existing audience specific data entries, a large number of audience specific documents may be generated with a minimal amount of data entry required. Audiences may be specified in a given order for traversal within the hierarchy and displayed in a data entry and editing application utilizing visual characteristics to inform a user if the value for a particular piece of data is inherited from another layer or utilized from the particular layer in use. Audience specific documents may be masked and accessed by payment.
US07664730B2 Method and system for implementing a SQL profile
A method, apparatus, and computer program product with a persistent data structure for storing a profile of tuning information for a query statement separately from the query statement. The profile in the persistent data structure includes a statement signature to identify the query statement, and an action to tune the statement.
US07664728B2 Systems and methods for parallel evaluation of multiple queries
Implementations described herein relate to evaluating multiple queries represented in an opcode tree having opcode nodes and branch nodes. Each opcode node comprises an opcode that is a part of an opcode block derived from compilation of a query, the opcode block consisting of a linear sequence of opcodes. Opcode nodes are arranged in the tree according to location of its corresponding opcode in the opcode block with opcodes that occur earlier in the opcode block being represented at a higher tree level than subsequent opcodes. Only one opcode node corresponds to a common opcode block segment that is included in multiple queries. Executing the opcode tree against an input evaluates each of the multiple queries represented in the opcode tree.
US07664722B2 Data analysis to optimize an explicative rule for analyzing the operation of a production line
A method for optimizing an explicative rule including constructing an explicative rule including at least one logical combination of at least one elementary conclusion, each elementary conclusion including a restriction of the domain of a variable; calculating at least one modified explicative rule optimizing the value of one or more quality indicators on a database of examples; and displaying a representation of the rules and corresponding quality indicators.
US07664715B2 Apparatus and method for compressing data, apparatus and method for analyzing data, and data management system
There are provided an apparatus and a method for compressing data, an apparatus and a method for analyzing data and a data management system, which are capable of compressing huge data and accurately reproducing the characteristics of the original data from the compressed data.The data compressing apparatus includes detection means for detecting a multiplicity of data sets, each including n parameter values that vary according to an operation of an object, where n is a natural number; and data compressing means for compressing the data sets by inputting the data sets into an n-dimensional space, arranging neurons smaller in number than the data sets in the n-dimensional space, carrying out unsupervised learning for a neural network on the neurons, and converting the data sets into a neuron model parameter characterizing a neuron model obtained by the unsupervised learning.
US07664708B2 System for controlling the distribution and use of digital works using digital tickets
A method, system and software for controlling the number of times that a usage right associated with a digital work can be exercised, including creating a digital work; determining a usage right for the digital work, the usage right specifying a digital ticket, the digital ticket indicating a number of times the usage right may be exercised; requesting access to the digital work including an identification of the usage right; determining the validity of the usage right based on a number of times the digital ticket has been used; granting or denying access to the digital work based on the result of the determining step; and updating the digital ticket if access to the digital work is granted.
US07664706B2 Method for granting customers access to a product
Example embodiments relate to a method for granting customers access to a product or a set of products. The method may include providing by the customer through a secured communication network, a code to a registration center, wherein the code being unique, transmitting the code from the registration center to an authorization center, retrieving the identifier of the product or the set products from the code, by requesting a data base or calculating the identifier, and transmitting, by the authorization center, an authorization code to the customer terminal, wherein the authorization code allows access to the product or the set of products.
US07664703B2 Value transfer systems and methods
One method involves the use of stored value account that may be used, for example, to make internet payments, and that can be credited using a variety of payment techniques. Such a method involves receiving money at a money transfer location from a potential purchaser. The money is then stored as an electronic record in a stored value account of the purchaser. This money is then available for transfer at the request of the purchaser. Upon such a request, the money may be electronically sent to a recipient and the stored value account may be debited.
US07664697B2 Personal electronic settling system and a terminal and control apparatus therefor
According to the present invention provided is an accounting means that is superior in safety and usability. The accounting means comprises: payment means including a plurality of systems of communication means; charging means including a plurality of systems of communication means; and settlement means including a plurality of systems of communication means. Since the payment means and the settlement means exchange transaction data by communicating with each other, it is possible to prevent the assessment of an illegal charge by the charging means. In addition, since a signature (a digital signature) and an accounting statement are exchanged by communication between the payment means and the charging means, the efficiency of the sale can be improved.
US07664696B2 Data processing system for complex pricing and transactional analysis
The present invention provides methods and systems for defining financial transaction components; defining mapping rules for taking individual financial transactions and breaking them down into their components, such as production services, billing services and settlement services. A data processing system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, creates a transaction instance corresponding to a financial transaction, creates a production service instance linked to the transaction instance by a first relation instance, and creates a billing service instance linked to the production service instance by a second relation instance. The data processing system, may also create other production service instances linked to the transaction instance using other relation instances, as well as, other billing service instances linked to the production service instances.
US07664688B2 Managing information in a multi-hub system for collaborative planning and supply chain management
A method and system for managing information in a multi-hub system for supply chain management and collaborative planning. A technique is presented from managing communications in a multi-hub model. First, consistency of data throughout the system is maintained by limiting which entities in the supply chain have the authority to write to the data. Various techniques for determining which entity has such authority are presented. Second, the relative complexity of transactions is determined by identifying how much computer processing is required. Transactions that require little processing are handled by lightweight servers; transactions that required moderate to extensive processing are sent to heavyweight servers. The end user receives information about the transaction more rapidly because the transactions are processed more efficiently.
US07664685B1 Computer-implemented system for recording oil and gas inspection data
A system for recording oil and gas inspection data comprising an inspection database server; a server-side vendor inspection database; at least one inspector client device; an inspector-side vendor inspection database; at least one customer client device; wherein at least one inspector inputs oil and gas inspection data to the inspection database server; wherein the inspection database server comprises computer instructions for instructing the inspection database server to provide at least one report; wherein the at least one inspector client device and the at least one customer client device are operable to access the oil and gas inspection data, the at least one report, or combinations thereof; and wherein the computer instructions instruct the inspection database server to formulate the at least one report for selected oil and gas inspection data and communicate the at least one report for viewing by at least one customer upon demand.
US07664683B2 Computer implemented system for determining a distribution policy for a single period inventory system, optimization application therefor, and method therefor, and decision support tool for facilitating user determination of a distribution policy for a single period inventory system
Computer implemented system for determining a distribution policy for a single period inventory system on the basis of the relative merit of allocating a draw unit of one of a multitude of different consumer items to one of a multitude of different locations in accordance with an allocation decision criterion subject to one or more constraints, an optimization application therefor, and method therefor, and including a Decision Support Tool for facilitating user determination of a distribution policy for a single period inventory system.
US07664679B2 Method and a system for computer software distribution using networked software dispensing vending machines
A method and a system for dispensing software programs from a networked software dispensing kiosk device or ATM. Software developers can place software for sale within the network thereby causing various remote software ATMs to offer the software. The user causes a display of a list of different categories of software titles available through a remotely located software ATM, e.g., located in a retail market place, or other public place. The user makes a selection from the list and may optionally execute the selected software using an on-screen emulation of the user's device. If the user is satisfied with the execution of the selected software, the user can purchase or rent the selected software using automated vending equipment of the software ATM. Purchased or rented software titles are electronically communicated from the software ATM to the user's portable computer system. The software ATM can also provide backup and archiving services for a portable computer user.
US07664668B2 Lead management in multi-tiered sales organizations
Techniques are described that provide automated sales-related assistance to sales organizations, such as for multi-tiered sales organizations that are clients of a multi-tenanted network-accessible server hosting a sales lead management service. The automated assistance may include assisting first-tier sales development representatives to qualify leads as sufficiently developed to allow a second-tier sales representatives to efficiently develop sales from them, and by further assisting the second-tier sales representatives to provide meaningful feedback that addresses problems in the lead qualifying process, such as by notifying a sales development representative of the reasons that one of their qualified sales lead was rejected by a sales representative and prompting resolution by that sales development representative. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and it is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US07664663B2 System and method for displaying airline seats
The present invention relates to a system and method for displaying airline seats. The system or method transmits data to an application running on a general purpose computer, the data including information descriptive of available individual seats on one or more airplanes, the data processed by the application to generate a graphical user interface on the general purpose computer that comprises an interactive seating map representing individual seats on the one or more airplanes, the data processed by the application to generate an additional display of information about one or more of the individual seats in response to a user interaction with the graphical user interface, the interaction being triggered when placing a mouse over a portion of the graphical user interface.
US07664653B2 System and method for electronic, web-based, address element correction for uncoded addresses
Systems and methods for correcting addresses to contain a code representing a delivery segment (ZIP+4™ code) within a defined geographic location (ZIP Code™) include determining whether the address is already matched with a ZIP+4™ code and contains a valid delivery point. Further, if a match the address cannot be made, the systems and method may correct or adjust the address and check if a match can be made after correcting and/or adjusting the address. If no match can be made after correcting and/or adjusting, the systems and methods may send the address to a district office and/or delivery unit to determine the ZIP+4™ code and the delivery point.
US07664649B2 Control apparatus, method and computer readable memory medium for enabling a user to communicate by speech with a processor-controlled apparatus
A control apparatus for enabling a user to communicate by speech with a processor-controlled apparatus, 1) controls a display of text data which includes a speech link that can be activated by a spoken command, 2) determines the location of a cursor displayed on a display from gaze input information, 3) changes a shape of the cursor when the cursor is located over the speech link, and 4) outputs a prompt identifying speech commands that can be used to activate the speech link when the cursor is displayed on the display in a changed state for a predetermined time located over the speech link.
US07664646B1 Voice activity detection and silence suppression in a packet network
The present invention is a system and method that improves upon voice activity detection by packetizing actual noise signals, typically background noise. In accordance with the present invention an access network receives an input voice signal (including noise) and converts the input voice signal into a packetized voice signal. The packetized voice signal is transmitted via a network to an egress network. The egress network receives the packetized voice signal, converts the packetized voice signal into an output voice signal, and outputs the output voice signal. The egress network also extracts and stores noise packets from the received packetized voice signal and converts the packetized noise signal into an output noise signal. When the access network ceases to receive the input voice signal while the call is still ongoing, the access network instructs the egress network to continually output the output noise signal.
US07664633B2 Audio coding via creation of sinusoidal tracks and phase determination
Coding of an audio signal represented by a respective set of sampled signal values for each of a plurality of sequential segments is disclosed. The sampled signal values are analyzed (40) to determine one or more sinusoidal components for each of the plurality of sequential segments. The sinusoidal components are linked (42) across a plurality of sequential segments to provide sinusoidal tracks. For each sinusoidal track, a phase comprising a generally monotonically changing value is determined and an encoded audio stream including sinusoidal codes (r) representing said phase is generated (46).
US07664625B2 Molecular modeling for metalloproteins
A method for designing a metal ion for use in a molecular dynamics simulation can include the steps of building a metal ion molecule having a center atom and a dummy atom, assigning a van der Waals radius to the center atom, and assigning a charge to the dummy atom. A metal ion molecule may have the center atom covalently linked to one or more dummy atoms resulting in the metal ion molecule having a polyhedron geometry. New force field parameters may be used in methods for designing metal ions for use in molecular dynamics simulations.
US07664624B2 Method for determining the acid gas storage capacities of a geologic medium by means of a multiphase reactive transport model
Method for determining acid gas storage capacities of an underground geologic medium by means of a multiphase reactive transport model.The geologic medium is divided into a set of sub-volumes for which connections are defined. A multiphase reactive transport model is then defined by dividing, according to a transfer rate principle, the phenomena involved in the behaviour of said geologic medium into two parts. A first part is treated by a first sub-model of “compositional multiphase reservoir” type allowing the transfer rates linked with the gas phase to be determined. A second part is treated by a model of “single-phase reactive transport” type allowing the transfer rates linked with the water and the solid to be determined. The model is initialized by means of data acquired in the field or in the laboratory. The acid gas storage capacities of the medium are determined from the reactive transport model.Application: acid gas storage in a natural reservoir.
US07664612B2 Signal processing system and method
First and second complementary voltage signals are operatively coupled across a series circuit comprising first and second sense resistors and a circuit element therebetween. An output signal responsive to the self-impedance of the circuit element is generated responsive at least one of a voltage across the first sense resistor and a voltage across the second sense resistor, and at least one of the first and second complementary voltage signals is controlled responsive to the output signal so as to provide for attenuating at least one noise signal having a frequency that is substantially different from a frequency of the first and second complementary voltage signals.
US07664607B2 Pre-calibrated gas sensor
A pre-calibrated gas sensor is disclosed. The gas sensor includes a cathode and an anode for outputting a current signal responsive to a sensed oxygen concentration and a signal processing module in communication with the cathode and the anode and configured to receive the current signal and to output a pre-calibrated signal representative of the sensed gas concentration based on a value of the received current signal.
US07664592B2 Fuel injection control apparatus
The fuel injection control apparatus includes a function of making a determination of whether learning conditions are satisfied to allow a fuel injection amount learning to be performed, a function of directing a commanded fuel injection amount in the fuel injection amount learning to a fuel injection valve if result of the determination is affirmative, a function of setting an upper limit value of an injection pressure in the fuel injection amount learning, a function of setting a target injection pressure in the fuel injection amount learning, a function of setting the injection pressure to the target injection pressure, a function of detecting an actual fuel injection amount, and a function of correcting an amount of fuel injected by the fuel injection valve on the basis of a difference between the commanded fuel injection amount and the actual fuel injection amount at the target injection pressure.
US07664584B2 Steering control system
A steering control system comprises a steering component, a turning component, and a backup mechanism for alternately mechanically separating and linking steering and turning components. A steer-by-wire control unit is provided for executing steer-by-wire control of a turning actuator to a turning angle corresponding to a steering condition and control of a steering reaction force actuator for imparting steering reaction force corresponding to the turning condition. A steering assistance control unit is selectively linked to the backup mechanism to executing steering assistance control for at least one of the steering reaction force actuator and the turning actuator. A control switching unit is provided for controlling a shift, under predetermined conditions, between control by the steer-by-wire control unit and control by the steering assistance control unit.
US07664581B2 Method and device for changing over a first mode of a control device to a second mode, via a data bus
A method and a system for switching between a first operating mode and a second operating mode of a target control device connected to a data bus are provided. After activation of the target control device, a test device generates a predefined signal to be transmitted on the data bus, the predefined signal having a predefined frequency and a predefined pulse-duty factor. The target control device is switched from the first operating mode to the second operating mode in response to detecting the predefined signal transmitted on the data bus.
US07664580B2 Method for operating drive train side components of a motor vehicle
A method for operating power train side components of a motor vehicle. Using a control device of a motor, at least one motor parameter is issued and delivered via a databus to at least one control device of one other power drive side component working independently of the motor control device in order to operate all or each one of the power drive side components dependent. in a first inventive aspect, a behavior of the respective other power drive side components that adjusts itself according to the motor torque actually made available by the motor is evaluated. In second inventive aspect, the motor torque issued by the motor control device is compared with a torque stored according to motor operation parameters in the control device working independently of the motor control device.
US07664569B2 Robot device operation control device and operation control method
A ZMP equilibrium equation stating the relationship of various moments applied to a robot body of a robot, based on desirable motion data made up by trajectories of respective parts, imaginarily divided from the robot body, is generated, and moment errors in a ZMP equilibrium equation are calculated. A priority sequence of the parts, the target trajectories of which are corrected to cancel out the moment errors, is set. The target trajectories are corrected from one part to another, in a sequence corresponding to the priority sequence, to compensate the moment errors.
US07664563B2 System for making custom prototypes
A system for making custom prototypes including devices for making the prototype, logic, software, firmware, hardware, circuitry or other components and responsive to user input.
US07664543B2 CT scanner for and method of imaging a preselected portion of the lower abdomen region of a patient
A CT scanner and method are designed to scan a preselected portion of a patient's lower abdomen. The scanner may include a source and detector array designed to rotate about a rotation axis oriented substantially parallel to or coincident with the hips of the a patient so that a scanning plane does not pass through the patient's pelvic bones Higher-resolution image CT images can be achieved by using a detector array of the type used for digital radiography. The presence of prostatic cancer can be detected by first injecting the patient with a material including a high contrast material for X-ray imaging and a material for binding the high contrast material to a specific biological site if present in the preselected portion of the lower abdomen of the patient; and generating a CT image of the preselected portion of the lower abdomen.
US07664541B2 Multi-channel magnetic resonance imaging reconstruction method for water-fat separation
In a multi-channel magnetic resonance imaging reconstruction method for water-fat separation, one in-phase image and two opposed-phase images are acquired with multiple reception coils in respective channels. The sensitivity distribution of the coils of the respective channels is calculated. The images of respective channels are merged dependent on the sensitivity distribution. A phase difference between the two opposed-phase images is calculated. At lease one characteristic region of the in-phase image is detected, which is used as a criterion for phase correction. The phases of the opposed-phase images are corrected and images of water and fat are calculated. The method provides stable and reliable imaging, has a short reconstruction time and also solves the problem that images of water and fat may be exchanged.
US07664540B2 Bluetooth earphone set with wire control function
A Bluetooth earphone set, which includes a main unit that houses an auto-reversible first winding mechanism and an auto-reversible second winding mechanism, an earphone cable coupled to the auto-reversible first winding mechanism for voice output, a signal connector cable coupled to the auto-reversible second winding mechanism and connectable to a cell phone, a switch, which is switched between a first position for enabling the earphone cable to output voice signal that is received wirelessly from a cell phone by the main unit and a second position for enabling the earphone to output voice signal that is received from a cell phone through the signal connector cable.
US07664537B2 Performance and efficiency of wireless devices
A wireless input device may negotiate a predefined transmit/receive schedule with a receiving device (i.e., PC, PDA, cellular device). To conserve power, the wireless components of the input device are powered down during periods of non-transmission. The wireless input device detects intermediate user input and corresponding data according to a detection rate during periods of non-transmission. The intermediate data is then transmitted to the receiving device during a transmission period along with a current data detected at the time of transmission. The wireless device may further discard any intermediate data which does not reflect a significant change. Additionally, the system and method may include a detection rate that adapts to degrees of user activity detected by the wireless input device.
US07664526B2 Method of establishing communication link, and computer product
A radio device from which communication is started transmits a confirmation signal to a counterpart, and if an acknowledgement signal is not returned from the counterpart, switches a communication mode to another communication mode. This operation is repeated until the acknowledgement signal is returned from the counterpart. Thus, the communication mode is matched with that of the counterpart, thereby establishing a communication link with the counterpart. A radio device caused to start communication by a second radio device receives a signal from the second radio device. The radio device switches a communication mode to another communication mode if synchronization is failed to be established. This operation is repeated until the synchronization is succeeded to be established. Thus, the communication mode is matched with that of the second radio device to be a communication counterpart, thereby establishing a link with the second radio device.
US07664521B2 Target value control system for transmission power control and method thereof and base station and mobile communication terminal
In the mobile communication system, a total reception quality between a terminal and a base station is converged into a target quality, thereby suppressing a period in which the transmission power of a distant station becomes excessive.In a mobile communication terminal, when a target SIR for the transmission power control in a down link from a radio base station is controlled, when a transmission power control system using a moving average is adopted, an error occurrence situation is detected by a reception quality calculating unit, and when many errors occur in the short time in the shadow of a building and the like, the number of errors is replaced with a predetermined upper limit value, and the reception quality of the moving average is calculated by an up/down adjusting unit, and when this calculating result is better than a target reception quality, the going down timing and down width of the target SIR are changed, and the target SIR at that time is decided and controlled by a target SIR deciding unit. In this way, the period in which the transmission power of the radio station becomes excessive can be suppressed.
US07664517B2 Wireless communication system utilizing a persistence value for group communication requests to reduce latency
A system and method for minimizing latency for direct group communications, such as push-to-talk (PTT) calls, among a group of wireless telecommunication devices on a wireless telecommunication network. The wireless telecommunication device selectively requests and then receives an open dedicated broadcast channel for an outgoing communication, which can include a group communication stream to a communication server that receives and creates a group communication to all wireless telecommunication devices of the designated group. The wireless telecommunication device selectively receives a broadcast channel based upon a predetermined probability, and assigns a greater probability of receiving an open broadcast channel for requests to transmit group communication streams than for requests to open a broadcast channel that are not for a group communication.
US07664492B1 Network engineering in a wireless network
A and collects provides various types of information therefrom, including E911 location information, Hand Off (HO) information, and Power information, as well as other Measurements and System Parameters. This information is analyzed by a Data Collection and Filtering system and the results of this analysis are provided to a Network Control system to dynamically control the operation of the wireless network. The various optimizations that can be achieved include: (1) dynamically allocating radio frequency (RF) signal power in the wireless network, (2) setting dynamic dedicated handoff (HO) thresholds for individual mobile transceivers; and (3) intelligently forming or steering radio frequency (RF) signal beams. Moreover, the collected and analyzed information can be used to identify and resolve problems in the wireless network, especially when the identified problems are correlating with E911 location information.
US07664473B2 Amplifier control device
A bias control signal generation unit detects ON and OFF of a transmission signal input to an amplifier and having a property of a burst according to burst information. The bias control signal generation unit controls a bias voltage to be applied to an amplifier such that an idle current flowing through the amplifier can be flowing in a larger amount in a transmission OFF period, and can return to a normal level in a transmission ON period.
US07664468B2 Wireless transceiver system
A wireless transceiver system, for compensating a transport loss, includes an antenna (300), a transceiver (100), a tower mounted amplifier (TMA) (200), and a transport loss detector (400). The transceiver transmits a first signal at a transmit power. The first signal is changed into a second signal after the cable attenuation from the transceiver. The TMA, connected to the transceiver via a cable, receives the second signal and amplifies the second signal. The transport loss detector, connected between the TMA and the transceiver, detects a transmission state of the transceiver, and calculates a transport loss between the transceiver and the TMA. The TMA transmits signals to the antenna or receives signals from the antenna according to the detected result of the transport loss detector, and compensates the transport loss according to the calculated result of the transport loss detector.
US07664461B2 RFID reader architecture
A highly integrated and low-cost reader for a radio frequency identification (RFID) system is realized by providing a transmitter operable to generate an outbound radio frequency (RF) signal and a receiver operable to receive an inbound RF signal having a frequency similar to a frequency of the outbound RF signal on a single integrated circuit. Since the inbound RF signal may include not only a modulated RF signal produced by an RFID tag responsive to the outbound RF signal, but also a blocking signal corresponding to the outbound RF signal, the receiver additionally includes a block cancellation module operable to substantially cancel the blocking signal from the inbound RF signal using the outbound RF signal and to substantially pass the modulated RF signal before down-conversion of the modulated RF signal.
US07664446B2 Image forming apparatus and a fixing device having a rigid heat-insulating layer
A fixing device for fixing a toner image on a sheet with heat while conveying the sheet of the present invention includes a heat roller or rotatable heating member and a press roller or rotatable pressing member. The heat roller includes a heat-generating layer and a rigid heat-insulting layer positioned inward of the heat-generating layer. The press roller conveys the sheet by nipping it in cooperation with the heat roller.
US07664443B2 Image forming apparatus having improved home position sensing structure of transfer belt, and method of disposing home position sensing apparatus of transfer belt for image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a transfer belt having a light penetrating portion formed at one side of an edge portion of the transfer belt, a protection tape adhered to both sides of the edge portion to cover the light penetrating portion, and a guide member attached to one side of the protection tape. A plurality of rotation rollers drive the transfer belt in a caterpillar-type manner and include a guide groove formed at both ends of each rotation roller such that the guide member is inserted therein. A sensing body receives one end of the transfer belt to be positioned therein. A first sensing element and a second sensing element are disposed at both sides of the transfer belt such that a second distance from a transfer surface of the transfer belt to the second sensing element is longer than a first distance from the other surface of the transfer belt to the first sensing element.
US07664442B2 Developing apparatus
A developing apparatus including: a developer carrying member carrying a developer with which an electrostatic image on an image bearing member is developed; a developer supplying/removing member having a conductive member and an insulating member on the surface thereof, and provided apart from the developer carrying member to supply and remove the developer to and from the developer carrying member, and moving directions of the developer carrying member and the developer supplying/removing member being opposed in a developer supplying position; and an electric field producing device producing between the developer carrying member and the developer supplying/removing member an oscillating electric field, in which direct potentials of the conductive member and the developer carrying member are the same, or the direct potential of the conductive member, with respect to the direct potential of the developer carrying member, is on the opposite side to a normal charging polarity of the developer.
US07664438B2 Developing device, image forming apparatus and developing method
A device for transferring toner along a flow path extending sequentially through an upstream stirring chamber(s) and a downstream stirring chamber(s). Toner transfer control apparatus controls toner transfer into the flow path, and a transfer of a developer including toner and a carrier between and from the upstream stirring chamber(s) to and between the downstream stirring chamber(s) to the latent image carrier whereby toner density along the flow path is controlled such that (i) a weight percentage of toner relative to developer in the upstream stirring chamber(s) is equal to or less than a first threshold value governing a time required to uniformly charge the toner; and (ii) the weight percentage of the toner to developer in the downstream stirring chamber(s) is greater than the first threshold value and equal to or less than a second threshold value necessary for the avoidance of uncharged toner.
US07664431B2 Photoconductive drum driving gear device usable with image forming apparatus
A photoconductive drum driving gear usable with an image forming apparatus includes a driving shaft, a driving gear to rotate with the driving shaft in connection with the driving shaft and meshed with a photoconductive drum gear of a process cartridge of the image forming apparatus, and a connection unit to connect the driving gear and the driving shaft so that the driving gear rotates with respect to the driving shaft by a predetermined angle when mounting the process cartridge to a main body of the image forming apparatus. The connection unit includes a plurality of connection projections formed at one of the driving shaft and the driving gear, a plurality of connection recesses formed at the other one of the driving shaft and the driving gear to correspond with the connection projections and having a greater width than the connection projections, and an elastic member interposed between the connection projections and the connection recesses to elastically bias the driving gear in a certain direction with respect to the driving shaft.
US07664430B2 Image forming apparatus with a holding amount adjusting unit
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier that rotates in a predetermined direction so as to carry a toner image, a charging member that charges the image carrier by a discharge operation, a toner holding member that is disposed to be in contact with the image carrier so as to hold toner in a portion being in contact with the image carrier and that removes a discharge product generated on the image carrier, and a holding amount adjusting unit that adjusts a toner holding amount of the toner holding member. The holding amount adjusting unit includes an estimation unit that estimates a current toner holding amount of the toner holding member, and a correction unit that corrects the toner holding amount of the toner holding member on a basis of an estimation result obtained from the estimation unit.
US07664427B2 Image forming apparatus with locking means
The image forming apparatus of this invention comprises: an image bearing member bearing a toner image to be transferred to a recording material; a unit including the image bearing member and capable of being pulled out from an apparatus main body; a transfer member which contacts the image bearing member and transfers the toner image on the image bearing member onto the recording material; an opening/closing member including the transfer member and capable of being opened and closed with respect to the apparatus main body; a first locking means which locks the unit to the apparatus main body; and a second locking means which locks the opening/closing member in a closed state; wherein the second locking means is released in conjunction with the releasing operation of the first locking means.
US07664422B2 Image forming system and sheet humidifying apparatus
An image forming system, comprises an image forming section to form an image on a sheet; a fixing section to fix the image formed on the sheet; a sheet conveying passage to convey the fixed sheet; a humidifying roller arranged on the sheet passage and to humidify the sheet; a water supplying tank to feed water to the humidifying roller; an electric component; and a waterproofing member to protect the electric component from water.
US07664416B2 Image recording apparatus including a fusing unit having a plurality of heater members
An image apparatus which minimizes temperature differences between end portions and a central portion of a print medium includes heater members having different heat distributions, a temperature detecting unit for detecting a temperature of an area where a print medium passes through, a heat controlling unit for controlling a fusing unit temperature by an individual heat controlling of the heater members based on the temperature detected by the temperature detecting unit, and a rate determination unit for determining a divisional rate of heat to be charged per unit time to the fusing unit by means of the heater members. The rate determination unit determines the divisional rate based on the fusing condition input and the heat controlling unit which controls the heater members individually on the basis of the divisional rate determined by the rate determination unit.
US07664413B2 Image forming device including a toner pattern forming unit
An image forming device includes a toner pattern forming unit that forms a first toner pattern and a second toner pattern downstream of the first toner pattern along a direction of advance of an intermediate transfer belt on the intermediate transfer belt. The first toner pattern is configured to include color patches of which a color density gradually differs so that, when detected by a sensor, a fluctuation of a toner density is adjusted by a feedback data. The second toner pattern is configured to prevent a cleaning blade from being twisted by a friction of the intermediate transfer belt due to the toner lubrication.
US07664404B2 Modular system for an optical rear panel bus
The invention relates to a rear panel bus, with a number of plugs which may be plugged into the modules and a fibre optic cable, for guiding light signals, whereby the fibre optic cable has a number of interruptions in the propagation direction of the light signals, into which means, for injection and decoupling of light signals running in the fibre optic cable may be inserted. The interruptions in the fibre optic cable are arranged such that a plug may be allocated to an interruption. The invention further comprises a module which may be plugged into an optical rear panel bus and means for injection and decoupling of light signals running in an optical fibre cable whereby the means for injecting and decoupling are arranged such as to be able to be inserted in interruptions in the fibre optic cable, to decouple light signals from the fibre optic cable and to inject light signals into the fibre optic cable in the propagation direction.
US07664396B2 1+1 protection method of services in OBS networks, intersection node apparatus and service protection system
A 1+1 protection method of service in optical burst switching (OBS) networks, an intersection node apparatus, and protection system of service are provided. The method discloses that burst packets bearing service are transferred through two risk-independent routes, and each burst packet corresponds to a control packet. The intersection node receives a first control packet transferred through either route with a sequence number, and then, when it continues to receive the second control packet, which is transferred through the other route with the same sequence number as the first control packet carries within the waiting time of the first control packet, the intersection node selects the burst packet corresponding to the control packet with a smaller quality loss field value of the first and second control packets. The present invention prevents the services from being cut down, and remarkably reduces the packet loss ratio of the service.
US07664375B2 Information signal edition apparatus, information signal edition method, and information edition program
In an information signal editing device, when a user specifies a desired reproduction section or reproduction start position, a management information file recorded in a memory is rewritten into a second management information file which is created on the basis of the specified information, and a second information file is set on the basis of the second management information file. The information signal editing device constructed as described performs arbitrary virtual editing when a DVD-RAM disk is non-rewritable, whereby the user can obtain a desired reproduction signal.
US07664373B2 Program, data processing method, and system of same
A program capable of individually decoding video data and audio data from data storing, mixed together, the video data, the audio data, and attribute data interleaved, wherein an SYS parse routine parses data MXF_D to extract system data SYS; a PIC parse routine parses the data MXF_D to extract video data PIC and decodes the related extracted video data PIC based on system data SYS extracted by the SYS parse routine 61, and an SOU parse routine parses the data MXF_D to extract audio data SOU and decodes the related extracted audio data SOU based on the system data SYS extracted by the SYS parse routine.
US07664369B2 Method and apparatus for improving the playability of a PAL or NTSC video signal containing color burst modifications
In the known color stripe process for preventing recording of video signals, the color burst present on each line of active video is modified so that any subsequent video tape recording of the video signal shows variations in the color fidelity that appear as undesirable bands or stripes of color error. This color stripe process is improved by a combination of modifying the phase of the color burst on only part of the color burst. Additional improvements were obtained by incorporating techniques of widening the normal color burst envelope towards the trailing edge of horizontal sync and towards the beginning of active video. These techniques are useful in improving the performance of the color stripe process in both the NTSC and PAL color systems. However, additional improvements are described in the PAL system whereby the phase modifications are controlled so as to avoid disturbing the so-called PAL ID pulse. Such avoidance of the PAL ID pulse improves the playability of the color stripe signal in the PAL format.
US07664368B2 Information recording/play-backing apparatus
It is possible to save power in an HDD/optical disc combination camera. During a normal recording operated by a battery, only the hard disk is operated and operation of the optical drive is stopped. Alternatively, only the optical drive is operated and the operation of the hard disk is stopped. During dubbing, both of the HDD and the optical drive are operated when performing play-back/display during the dubbing and a large current is consumed. Accordingly, the operation is permitted only by external power supply. In the case of dubbing not performing play-back/display, the battery remaining amount is checked and dubbing is permitted only if the amount is equal to or greater than a threshold value.
US07664364B2 Waveguide assembly and connector
One aspect of the invention relates to a waveguide assembly. The waveguide assembly comprises a waveguide (120) provided on a substrate (126), a waveguide housing (100) and an embedding layer (138) embedding at 5 least part of the waveguide housing (100). The waveguide housing (100) comprises a waveguide channel (102) for guiding the waveguide (120) from the substrate (126) through the embedding layer (138).
US07664356B2 Hollow waveguide and method of manufacturing the same
A hollow waveguide has a metal-clad pipe having an inside metal layer and an outside metal layer, and a hollow region formed inside of the metal-clad pipe. The metal-clad pipe is formed by pressure-bonding metal pipes each of which is made of a metal material different from each other.
US07664348B2 Optical switch with reconfigurable broadcasting and combining capabilities
An optical switch provides the ability to broadcast one input signal to multiple output channels and to combine multiple input signals into single output channel. The signal broadcast pattern is reconfigurable. One or more diffractive optical elements are used in the switch.
US07664331B2 Log data recording device, log data recording method and storage medium storing program
The present invention provides a log data recording device which records log data concerning a processing of image data. The log data recording device includes a compression unit and a recording unit. If the image data is judged to be a pre-specified document image, the compression unit compresses the image data with a first compression ratio, the first compression ratio is different from a second compression ratio for compressing image data other than the pre-specified document image. The recording unit records the log data including the compressed image data.
US07664328B2 Joint classification and subtype discovery in tumor diagnosis by gene expression profiling
A program storage device is provided readable by machine, tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the machine to perform method steps for classification of biological tissue by gene expression profiling. The method steps include providing a training set of gene expression profiles of known tissue samples, providing a first-layer strong classifier of the known tissue samples by combining weak classifiers using boosting, creating two sample sets based on the first classifier, populating the two sample sets with a next-layer of classifiers based on a previous-layer classifier, organizing the classifiers in a tree data structure, and outputting the tree data structure as a probabilistic boosting tree classifier for tissue sample classification and disease subtype discovery. A multi-class diagnosis problem is transformed to a two-class diagnosis process by finding an optimal feature and dividing the multi-class problem into two-classes.
US07664322B1 Feature-based color adjustment
Methods and apparatus implementing a technique for adjusting the color of pixels in an image. The technique includes identifying a target region of pixels in the image that represent an object, the object having a shape and a predefined set of features; and adjusting the color of one or more pixels in the target region by an amount determined based on one or more probability functions and one or more spatial profile functions, each probability function defining a probability value at each of the one or more pixels in the target region, the probability value representing the probability that the pixel corresponds to one or more features of the object, each spatial profile function being defined based on one or more spatial properties of the object or one or more of its features.
US07664321B2 Image processing method, system, program, program storage medium and information processing apparatus
This invention provides the following environment. That is, an original document file corresponding to a document to be copied is specified from image data of that document to be copied, and a print process is made based on the specified file so as to prevent deterioration of image quality. Also, when a document to be copied is not registered, a registration process is executed to suppress deterioration of image quality in an early stage. Furthermore, since the document is converted into vector data, re-use of such document is facilitated, and deterioration of image quality can be suppressed even when an image process such as enlargement or the like is made. To this end, when an original digital file cannot be specified, an apparatus of this embodiment executes a vectorization process (S54), converts the obtained vector data into a data format that can be re-used by an application (S55), and registers the converted file in a file server (S56). With this registration process, since the location of the file is settled, that location information is composited on an image to be scanned using an identifier such as a two-dimensional barcode or the like (S48), and the composite image can be printed (S49). Even when the printed document is scanned again, a registered digital file can be easily specified.
US07664319B2 Method and device for color balance correction, and computer product
A color balance correction device includes a histogram generating unit that generates histograms of a gradation level of pixels for R, G, and B; a decreasing-tendency-area identifying unit that identifies a range that the frequency tends to decrease first from a highlight side of each of histograms generated by the histogram generating unit as the catch light area; and a correction-amount calculating unit that calculates a correction amount of the color balance using data of pixels except for those in the catch light area specified by the decreasing-tendency-area identifying unit.
US07664315B2 Integrated image processor
An integrated image processor implemented on a substrate is disclosed. An input interface is configured to receive pixel data from two or more images. A pixel handling processor disposed on the substrate is configured to convert the pixel data into depth and intensity pixel data. In some embodiments, a foreground detector processor disposed on the substrate is configured to classify pixels as background or not background. In some embodiments, a projection generator disposed on the substrate is configured to generate a projection in space of the depth and intensity pixel data.
US07664314B2 Method for the analysis of correspondences in image data sets
Processing of image data relating to moving scenarios, especially for recognizing and tracking objects located therein, requires identifying corresponding pixels or image areas in the individual successive image data sets. Likewise, processing of stereo images requires identifying the data areas which correspond to each other in two images that are recorded substantially at the same time from different angles of vision. According to the novel method of analyzing correspondences in image data sets, the image data sets that are to be compared are transformed using a signature operator such that a signature string is calculated for each pixel and is stored in a signature table allocated to the individual image data sets along with the pixel coordinates in a first step. A correspondence hypothesis is then generated for the signature strings identified in both tables and is stored in a list of hypothesis is then generated for the signature strings identified in both tables and is stored in a list of hypotheses for further processing. The inventive method advantageously makes it possible to analyze correspondences in a very efficient manner regarding the computing time while allowing fast processing of image pairs even when individual objects are presented at very different points in the two data sets.
US07664307B2 Photomask manufacturing support system
A drawing data inputting/interpreting section of a data processing device reads in hierarchical structured drawing data from a first memory device and stores interpreted drawing data information extracted as graphic information in a second memory device. A data analysis section reads in the interpreted drawing data information, analyzes information necessary for a drawing step, and stores the same as drawing analysis results in the second memory device. In addition, a data conversion section reads in the interpreted drawing data information, and after a format conversion to inspection data, stores the converted inspection data in the second memory device. Thereby, a drawing data analysis step and an inspecting data conversion step can be carried out in parallel.
US07664306B2 Visual inspection method and visual inspection apparatus
In a visual inspection method and apparatus, a picture processing unit converts an original picture, obtained by taking a photograph of a BGA illuminated by a ring illuminator from above, by using a camera, and labels a binary picture obtained by this binary conversion. Then, it forms a circumscribing rectangle circumscribing an outer circumference of a labeling picture obtained by the labeling, and inverts a labeling picture within the formed rectangle, and removes a portion of a region formed by the outer circumference and the circumscribing rectangle in a picture obtained by the inversion, and then generates an inspection picture by adding a picture obtained by the removal to the labeling picture, and accordingly judges a pass or rejection of the inspection target sample based on the generated inspection picture. Thus, the inspection can be carried out at a high accuracy irrespectively of a low cost.
US07664302B2 Simultaneous grayscale and geometric registration of images
Simultaneous grayscale and geometric registration of images, such as mammograms, facilitates temporal comparison and enhances the speed and reliability of computer aided diagnosis (CAD) detection of medical abnormalities. The method generally includes optimizing a merit function, e.g., sum of squared errors, containing parameters associated with a transformation function for simultaneous geometric and grayscale registering of the images, the optimizing of the merit function being performed by determining optimal values of the parameters using data in the images and registering one image to the other by applying the geometric and grayscale transformation function using the optimal values of the parameters. The optimizing may be performed iteratively from coarse to fine resolutions using a modified Levenberg-Marquardt method for optimizing nonlinear parameters with linear regression for optimizing linear parameters. A final iteration may be performed after removing pixel value pairs from the images that correspond to outliers of a joint pixel value histogram.
US07664297B2 Three-dimensional joint structure measuring method
A method enabling a destroyed part of a joint or joint cartilage to be extracted accurately and at a high speed with a good repeatability and enabling quantitative and simple 3D analysis of the joint and the destroyed part, that is, a method of 3D image processing comprising filling in a medullary cavity region, comprised of a hollow region inside a joint, of a digitalized image of a cross-section of the examined joint using the Expansion and Shrinkage method, performing 3D labeling by a 3D image obtained by stacking digitalized images of cross-sections of the examined joint generated at a step of extracting a contour of the cross-sectional image of the joint or digitalized images of cross-sections of the examined joint not pre-processed, and defining the joint image to be evaluated.
US07664296B2 Image recording method and system, image transmitting method, and image recording apparatus
An input apparatus reads a patient ID from an ID card and transmits it to a computer. On the basis of the patient ID, the computer obtains corresponding patient information containing a photograph of the patient's face and the patient's name, from a medical database, and then transmits the patient information to the digital camera together with the patient ID. The digital camera displays the patient information to enable confirmation of the patient to be photographed. After the patient has been confirmed, the patient ID is filled in a header part of an image file for the image photographed using the digital camera, and the image file is transmitted to the medical database or the like. Thus, the input of the identification information input before photographing and the subject to be photographed can be easily confirmed.
US07664287B2 Headset capable of receiving signals from an electronic device, method of manufacturing same, and ear loop and earplug capable of removable engagement with same
A headset capable of receiving signals from an electronic device includes a body (110), a neck (120) protruding from the body, a speaker (130) coupled to the neck, an ear loop (140) removably attached to the neck, and an earplug (150) removably attached to the neck. The ear loop can include an attachment portion (810) including a substantially circular arc, and an ear engagement portion (820) coupled to the headset attachment portion and including a flexible wire (821) surrounded by a coating (822). The earplug can include a neck attachment portion (1110) and an ear engaging portion (1120) adjacent to the headset engaging portion and having a protruding lip (1121).
US07664273B2 Approach for controlling audio signals in remote location
An example embodiment is directed to use in a facility benefiting from the distribution of audio throughout different facility zones (“audio zones”), with each audio zone receiving an audio signal from a remotely-located audio distribution controller. For controlling audio at a user-controlled speaker load located in one of the audio zones, a circuit arrangement includes isolation circuit, speaker load circuit, user-input device and an audio control unit. The isolation circuit generates a transformed audio signal by provide an impedance-matched termination and by permitting one of a number of impedance-matching circuits to be set wherein each impedance-matching circuit provides a different amount of electrical power to the speaker load. The speaker load circuit delivers, in response to the transformed audio signal, audible signals in the audio zone. The audio control unit has a microprocessor adapted to control the delivery of the audible signals in response to the input commands generated via the user-input device.
US07664272B2 Sound image control device and design tool therefor
A sound image control device filters transfer functions H3 and H1 indicating transfer characteristics of a sound from an acoustic transducer (8) to entrances to respective ear canals (1) and (2) as well as filtering transfer functions H4 and H2 from an acoustic transducer (9) to the entrances to the respective ear canals (1) and (2) and generates second transfer functions H6 and H5 indicating transfer characteristics of a sound to the entrances to the respective ear canals (1) and (2) from a target sound source (11) at a location different from the sound sources, the sound image control device being equipped with correction filters (13) and (14) that (i) store characteristic functions E1 and E2 for performing filtering operations on the first transfer functions H1, H2, H3, and H4 and (ii) generate the second transfer functions H5 and H6 from the first transfer functions H1, H2, H3, and H4 using such characteristic functions E1 and E2.
US07664264B2 Utilizing data reduction in steganographic and cryptographic systems
The present invention relates to methods for protecting a data signal using the following techniques: applying a data reduction technique to reduce the data signal into a reduced data signal; subtracting the reduced data signal from the data signal to produce a remainder signal; embedding a first watermark into the reduced data signal to produce a watermarked, reduced data signal; and adding the watermarked, reduced data signal to the remainder signal to produce an output signal. A second watermark may be embedded into the remainder signal before the final addition step. Further, cryptographic techniques may be used to encrypt the reduced data signals and to encrypt the remainder signals before the final addition step. The present invention also relates to a system for securing a data signal including: computer devices for applying a data reduction technique to reduce the data signal into a reduced data signal; means to subtract the reduced data signal from the data signal to produce a remainder signal; means to apply a first cryptographic technique to encrypt the reduced data signal to produce an encrypted, reduced data signal; means to apply a second cryptographic technique to encrypt the remainder signal to produce an encrypted remainder signal; and means to add the encrypted, reduced data signal to the encrypted remainder signal to produce an output signal.
US07664263B2 Method for combining transfer functions with predetermined key creation
A method for combining transfer functions with predetermined key creation. In one embodiment, digital information, including a digital sample and format information, is protected by identifying and encoding a portion of the format information. Encoded digital information, including the digital sample and the encoded format information, is generated to protect the original digital information. In another embodiment, a digital signal, including digital samples in a file format having an inherent granularity, is protected by creating a predetermined key. The predetermined key is comprised of a transfer function-based mask set to manipulate data at the inherent granularity of the file format of the underlying digitized samples.
US07664257B2 Method and apparatus for article authentication
An authentication method for authenticating an article in a device includes the steps of (a) reading an identification number stored on the article, (b) reading an authentication number stored on the article, (c) determining an input number based at least in part on the identification number, (d) applying an authentication function to the input number to calculate an output number, (e) determining that the article is authentic only if the authentication number corresponds to the output number, and (f) permitting use of the article in the device if the article is authentic, and disabling use of the article in the device if the article is not authentic.
US07664248B2 Call forwarding to voice mail systems based on redirecting number
A method and system is presented to route calls to a voicemail system. The method includes receiving a call from an originating device at a first redirecting device and forwarding the call from the first redirecting device to a second redirecting device. The forwarded call has an associated data message that includes a calling number of the originating device and the first redirecting number of the first redirecting device. The method also includes forwarding the call from the second redirecting device to a destination voice mailbox. The destination voice mailbox is selected based on an evaluation of the first redirecting number and the second redirecting number.
US07664242B2 System and method for anonymous telephone communication
The present invention comprises a system and method for masking the identity of a user of a calling telephone. Preferably an information processor is provided to receive over a public switched telephone network a telephone call from the calling telephone. The information processor receives from the user of the calling telephone a destination telephone number and a user-defined telephone number that is to be transmitted to a telephone at the destination telephone number. When the destination telephone answers, the user-defined telephone number is displayed.
US07664238B2 Method of transmitting one text message to many receivers
A method of transmitting one text message to a plurality of receivers is disclosed. The method includes inputting numbers of the receivers and a text message to be transmitted, determining a type of a transmission speed of the inputted text message, and transmitting the inputted text message of the determined type to numbers of the respective receivers. If the text message transmission succeeds, the method further includes confirming whether any further receivers of the text message exist and, if so, inputting new numbers of the further receivers and re-transmitting the corresponding text message to the new numbers of the further receivers. In inputting the phone numbers of the receivers, the sender can transmit the text message more rapidly and conveniently using the phonebook function and one-touch dial function.
US07664230B2 X-ray tubes
The present invention is directed to an X-ray tube that has an electron source in the form of a cathode and an anode within a housing. The anode is a thin film anode, so that most of the electrons which do not interact with it to produce X-rays pass directly through it. A retardation electrode is located behind the anode and is held at a potential which is negative with respect to the anode and slightly positive with respect to the cathode.
US07664229B2 X-ray tube and x-ray source including same
The present invention relates to an X-ray tube, having a structure enabling capturing of a clear magnified transmission image and enabling increase of a magnification factor of the magnified transmission image, and an X-ray source including the X-ray tube. In the X-ray tube, X-rays are generated by making electrons from an electron gun incident onto an X-ray target of an anode, disposed inside an anode housing unit, and the generated X-rays are taken out from an X-ray emission window. In particular, the anode housing unit has a pair of conductive flat portions disposed parallel to a reference plane, orthogonal to an electron incidence surface of the X-ray target, and so as to sandwich the X-ray target. The reference plane contains a first reference line, joining an electron emission exit center of the electron gun and an electron incidence surface center of the X-ray target, and a second reference line, being a straight line intersecting the first reference line on the electron incidence surface of the X-ray target and joining the electron incidence surface center and an X-ray emission window center.
US07664223B1 Collimator element
A beam collimator arrangement for scanned-slot x-ray imaging having one or several collimators in an x-ray apparatus is disclosed. The beam collimator arrangement includes an x-ray source; an x-ray image receiver positioned to receive x-rays from the x-ray source; a compressor or means for compressing a female breast to be examined where the compressor is positionable between the x-ray source and the x-ray image receiver; and the beam collimator is positioned between the x-ray source and the compressor. The beam collimator arrangement is arranged on a carrying structure to displace the beam collimator arrangement between a first position when no x-ray exposure is conducted and a second position before x-ray exposure is initiated.
US07664218B2 Shift register and image display apparatus containing the same
A shift register includes a first transistor supplying an output terminal with a clock signal input to a first clock terminal and a second transistor discharging the output terminal. Defining the gate node of the first transistor as a first node, and the gate node of the second transistor as a second node, the shift register includes an inverter circuit in which the first node serves as its input node and a capacitive element serves as a load, and a buffer circuit receiving the output from the inverter circuit and outputting a signal to the second node.
US07664216B2 Digital frequency locked delay line
A device includes a signal generator having a delay locked circuit for providing a of output signals based on an input signal. The output signals have a fixed signal relationship with each other and with the input signal. The signal generator also includes a selector for selecting an enable signal from a range of signals formed by the output signals. The device further includes a transceiver circuit in which the transceiver circuit uses the enable signal for data processing.
US07664214B2 System and method for transferring data among transceivers substantially void of data dependent jitter
A communication system, clock generation circuit, and method are provided for receiving jitter upon data and to generate a clock reference that does not contain the received jitter. The clock reference can be used either by a digital subsystem of a communication system node, or can be transmitted as substantially jitter-free data from that node to a downstream node of the communication system. Instead of recovering the clock reference from the data having jitter, a pattern is regularly defined within the data stream preferably at periodic, timed intervals. The data pattern may be made up of a series of non-transitions which, regardless of any jitter in the data itself, does not impute any jitter onto a phase-locked loop triggered from an edge of the non-transitioning data pattern. Using the edge as a reference point, a jitter-free clocking signal can be derived at the same frequency as a clocking signal which would normally be produced from the jitter-induced data.
US07664212B2 Apparatus and method for switching clocks while preventing glitches and data loss
A apparatus (700) and method (600) are presented for preventing glitches and data loss in an Digital Base Band (DBB) portion (110) of an Ultra Wideband (UWB) receiver. a first and a second recovered clock (111, 112) and an external clock (109) can be input to a switch (116). Logical rules (490) can be used to determine conditions under which to hold the state of an output clock (310, 320) based on the states of a first clock (410, 420, 430, 440) and a second clock (450, 460, 470, 480) and the state of a switch request signal (312). In addition to holding the state of the output clock, a first data stream (501) associated with the first clock and a second data stream (502) associated with the second clock can be synchronized such that when switching from the first to the second clock no data loss will be experienced in the data stream.
US07664209B2 Method and apparatus for coordinating transmission of short messages with hard handoff searches in a wireless communications system
A method and apparatus for coordinating the time at which a mobile station performs searches for alternative systems to which a hard handoff will occur. The mobile station receives a command which instructs the mobile station as to when to tune to alternative frequencies in order to search for indicates of the presence of an alternative system. In another system which includes the present invention, predetermined times are defined with respect to a reference point in time that is common to both the origination base station and a mobile station. The mobile station tunes to alternative frequencies to perform searches only during these predetermined times. In addition, the mobile station coordinates the transmission of reports, which indicate the results of searches for alternative systems such that these reports are only transmitted from the mobile station when the mobile station is tuned to the origination frequency.
US07664201B2 Digital automatic gain control
An automatic gain control system prevents input overload by precisely controlling the input level of a received, digitally modulated signal without variable gain amplification. Limiting amplification in conjunction with a logarithmic detection splits an input signal path in two, providing separate phase and amplitude information for downstream digital signal processing, where the separate phase and amplitude information is processed without variable gain artifacts. The separated phase information may further be divided into I and Q signals.
US07664199B2 Transmission power control for mobile telecommunication: terminal device, method and control program
A mobile telecommunication terminal device is provided which is capable of preventing an excessive increase in transmitting power to be fed from a base station even if a burst error occurs in a mobile unit. The mobile telecommunication terminal device has an error frequency calculating section to calculate a frequency of detection of errors in received data, a target transmitting power setting section to decrease a set value of a target SIR (Signal to Interference Power Ratio) when the frequency of detection of errors is not larger than the target SIR, while the frequency of detection of errors exceeds the target detection frequency value, to increase the set value of the target SIR, an SIR measuring section, an SIR comparing section, a transmitting power requesting section, and an error frequency correcting section.
US07664198B2 System and method for broadcasting data over a wireless network using rateless codes
A system and method for broadcasting content data to a plurality of mobile devices. The content data is arranged into data blocks, and each data block is broadcast using an initial set of rateless transmission symbols. Mobile devices that did not receive a sufficient number of initial symbols respond with a no acknowledgment (“NACK”) message, and a NACK rate for the broadcast system is monitored. Responsive to the NACK rate, additional symbols may be broadcast or otherwise transmitted to mobile devices, and, the NACK rate is used to determine when to terminate transmission of additional symbols for a particular data block. An initial set of symbols for the next data block may be transmitted concurrently with the additional symbols for one or more previous data blocks. The NACK rate may also be used as feedback to the broadcast system to adjust the transmission scheme.
US07664194B2 Combining space time block code (STBC) with spatial multiplexing for MIMO transmission
A STBC-based transmission method and transmission system provides equal protection on all data streams such that all streams operate at the same SNR. STBC and spatial multiplexing are combined in a transmitter which provides equal STBC coding protection on all data streams. Such a combination of STBC with spatial multiplexing for MIMO transmission results in performance enhancements, such as in high throughput WLANs.
US07664189B2 OFDM demodulator, receiver, and method
An orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) demodulator demodulates an OFDM signal constituted by OFDM symbols each including at least an effective symbol and a scattered known signal. The OFDM demodulator includes a Fourier transform performing unit, a known signal extracting unit, a time dimension interpolation unit, a delay spread generating unit, a frequency dimension interpolation unit, and a waveform equalizing unit. The delay spread generating unit employs a time difference between a time point for a starting position of the Fourier transform operation performed by the Fourier transform performing unit and a time point at which a latest arriving path arrived as the delay spread.
US07664188B2 Spatio-temporal processing for communication
A space-time signal processing system with advantageously reduced complexity. The system may take advantage of multiple transmitter antenna elements and/or multiple receiver antenna elements, or multiple polarizations of a single transmitter antenna element and/or single receiver antenna element. The system is not restricted to wireless contexts and may exploit any channel having multiple inputs or multiple outputs and certain other characteristics. Multi-path effects in a transmission medium cause a multiplicative increase in capacity.
US07664186B2 Channel decoding for multicarrier signal transmission by means of DC-offset and carrier-frequency offset-dependent weighting of reliability information
The influence of a DC offset with a carrier-frequency offset at the same time is reduced in that the values of the assumed or determined DC offset and of the assumed or determined carrier-frequency offset are included in the determination of reliability information for one sub-carrier in the multicarrier system, and the reliability information is corrected in this way. A factor M, where M<1, is defined for each sub-carrier on the basis of the values for the DC offset and for the carrier-frequency offset, and the reliability information for the sub-carriers is multiplied by these factors M.
US07664175B1 Mark-based content modulation and detection
A method for modulating mark (20) within content signal (18) that has frames, where each of the frames has content lines and one or more measurable parameters, where each of the content lines has pixels, and where each of the pixels has a value, the method comprising selecting framesets from among the frames of the content signal; modulating at least two of the framesets; and causing mark (20) to be present within content signal (18) by at least modulating at least two of the framesets.
US07664171B2 Uplink burst equalizing method in broad wide access system
A method for uplink burst equalization in broad wide access system, using the form of combining pre-training and burst equalization, that is, before transmitting user data, training the equalizer, then starting transmitting user data, in which, the equalizer uses decision user data as reference to track the changed wireless channel; if the change of channel exceeds the tracking region of equalizer, for example, the error rate exceeds threshold 1 but doesn't exceed threshold 2, the burst equalization will be performed; if the channel change exceeds the equalization region of equalizer, for example, the error rate exceeds threshold 2, the training will be performed again. By using the form of combining pre-training and burst equalization, setting different thresholds for handoff, the present invention greatly prolongs the intervals of subsequent pre-training process, thereby reducing the times of pre-training and increasing the effective bandwidth; By introducing burst equalization process, the present invention also decreases the requirement of system on operation occasion (for example, the static channel or the interval of bursts should be short), thereby increasing the application occasions of product.
US07664169B2 Method and system for improving modem performance, computer program product therefor
A method controls performance of modem arrangements wherein a plurality of tones having associated gains with a maximum reachable value are used for carrying respective bitstreams. The method includes at least one of selectively swapping bits between the tones in the plurality and selectively changing the tone gains to optimized an error parameter. The method also includes: determining the current values for the associated gain, determining the gain margins between the maximum reachable values and the current values, and performing, to optimize the error parameter as a function of the margins, at least one of: varying the number of bits allocated to the tones, and performing a transmitted power variation by varying the gains.
US07664165B2 Correlation apparatus based on symmetry of correlation coefficient and method thereof
Provided is a correlation apparatus based on symmetry of a correlation coefficient that can reduce complexity of hardware by reducing the number of adders and multipliers. Accordingly, when values of a real number part and an imaginary number part are exchanged with respect to a middle point of a correlation coefficient sequence and divided into two parts of left and right by the middle point of the correlation coefficient sequence, the values of the real number part and the imaginary number part are even-symmetrical with respect to the middle point of the divided two parts. Therefore, the number of the adders required for forming the correlation apparatus is reduced by at least 20% and the number of the multipliers is reduced by at least 70% in comparison with the 62 adders and the 64 multipliers required for a conventional correlation apparatus.
US07664161B2 Pulse generator and the transmitter with a pulse generator
A pulse generator for UWB transmission, lower power consumption, and suppression of LO leakage by nonuse of the LO signal. The pulse generator includes a clock generator (CLK) for giving clock of a predetermined period; a delay circuit (DLY) equipped with a function of controlling a delay time and for delaying the clock; a square-wave pulse generation circuit (SWPG) that receives information being spread by a spread code and modulates phases of square wave pulses that have a pulse width corresponding to a differential delay for one stage of the delay circuit; and an amplitude control unit (AMPC) that outputs an impulse sequence having the pulse width of the square wave in a predetermined amplitude and combines the impulses; and outputs pulses that have a predetermined envelope form.
US07664158B2 Two-dimensional photonic crystal surface-emitting laser
A two-dimensional photonic crystal formed by arranging in a lattice pattern a medium having a refractive index different from that of a medium layer formed near an active layer. The two-dimensional photonic crystal includes a distributed-feedback control photonic crystal in which a light propagating through the active layer as a core is subjected to a two-dimensional distributed feedback within a plane of the active layer, and the light is not radiated in a direction normal to the plane of the active layer, and a surface-emission control photonic crystal in which the light is radiated in the direction normal to the plane of the active layer, which are superimposed with each other.
US07664156B2 Wavelength tunable laser
A wavelength tunable laser comprises a multiple ring resonator, an input/output side waveguide coupled to a ring resonator, a reflection side waveguide coupled to a ring resonator, a multiple ring resonator, a PLC substrate where the input/output side waveguide and the reflection side waveguide are formed, a high reflection film set on the reflection side waveguide, a SOA connected to the input/output side waveguide through a anti-reflection film, a film heater which is placed above a ring waveguide for wavelength tuning in the PLC substrate and provides heat to the ring waveguide for wavelength tuning, and a adiabatic groove, which restrain conducting heat provided by the film heater to the PLC substrate except the ring waveguide for wavelength tuning.
US07664153B2 Laser diode array, optical scanning device and printing apparatus
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a laser diode array including: a laser array chip including: a substrate; and at least three of laser diodes that are formed on the substrate; first electrodes that are formed on each of the laser diodes so as to be isolated from one another; a sub-mount; and second electrodes that are formed on the sub-mount so as to correspond to the first electrodes and so as to be isolated from one another, wherein the laser array chip is mounted on the sub-mount through the first electrodes and the second electrodes, and wherein, among contacting surfaces between each of the first electrodes and a corresponding one of the second electrodes, a contacting area of a central one of the contacting surfaces is larger than that of an end one of the contacting surfaces.
US07664152B2 Semiconductor laser device
A semiconductor laser device has a front surface electrode formed by Au plating, a rear surface electrode formed by Au plating, an anti-adhesive film on the front surface electrode or the rear surface electrode and made of a material that does not react with Au, and a coating film that covers an end face on a light emitting side and an end face opposite the light emitting side. The anti-adhesive films may be located at least at the four corners of the front or rear surface electrode.
US07664144B2 Packet-switched network synchronization system and method
A synchronization system and method for use in a packet switched communication network are provided. The synchronization system comprises a transmitter-identification system, a packet-boundary detection system and a storage-access system. The transmitter-identification system enables each receiving terminal within the network to know the identity of the originating transmitter terminal for a given packet of information, prior to the reception of this packet of information. The packet-boundary detection system enables detection of packet synchronization parameters for all transmitter-receiver pairs of terminals within the network. The storage-access system stores the detected packet synchronization parameters and allows the receiver to access the packet synchronization parameters. According to one embodiment of the invention, the synchronization method comprises the step of detecting synchronization parameters and, for a given receiver terminal, establishing the identity of the originating transmitter for an incoming packet of information, accessing synchronization parameters corresponding to the identified transmitter, adjusting receiver based on accessed synchronization parameters and decoding the incoming packet of information.
US07664132B2 Random medium access methods with backoff adaptation to traffic
Using low PF values in conjunction with traffic-adapted contention windows leads to substantial decreases in delay and jitter. In general, adaptation to traffic reduces contention or delay: opening up the contention window in congestion and closing it on relief. Residual backoff adaptation provides for the reduction of the already decremented backoff values of stations that interrupted the backoff countdown process due to a transmission. It is good to adapt both the contention window and the residual backoff in order to avoid jitter. Otherwise, if the contention window is reduced but residual backoffs stay unchanged, new arrivals will enjoy shorter backoff delays than older ones, resulting in greater jitter. Adjusting both preserves the relative ordering of backoff counter values, which implies also some form of age ordering. Different adjustments can be applied to different priority traffic.
US07664125B1 Indication forwarding in a distributed environment
Described are techniques for performing indication forwarding. At an indication consolidator, a request is received from a client to receive indications about a plurality of nodes in accordance with first filter information. A communication structure for forwarding indications is determined. Subscription requests including said first filter information are forwarded from said indication consolidator to others of said plurality of nodes to establish communication connections between said plurality of nodes in accordance with said communication structure. Indications fired from any of said plurality of nodes in accordance with said first filter information are forwarded to said indication consolidator node in accordance with said communication structure. The client is notified of any indications received at said indication consolidator node in accordance with said first filter information.
US07664118B2 System and method for high precision clock recovery over packet networks
An innovative system and method for achieving high precision clock recovery, i.e. reconstruction of the clock signal having the same frequency, over a packet switched network. The proposed method utilizes a minimum network delay approach, which overcomes the problems caused by delay variation of the network and filters out network jitter, such as noise jitter and other “singular” anomalies causing latency deviations. Minimum network delay is defined herein as the time delay in which a packet remains in the network under assumption that all transmission queues through which the packet passes are empty.
US07664114B1 Traffic matrix computation for packet networks
Systems in the current art provide capacity planning for packet networks. These systems require input data that characterizes traffic demands. The demands may be expressed as matrixes that record the number of bytes and packets exchanged between access routers or service nodes for each type-of-service. This invention defines a system and method to calculate these traffic matrixes. Access routers in a service node export flow records to a Record Collector. The flow records are processed to create ingress and egress records that are stored on the Record Collector. This data is uploaded to a Capacity Planning Server at which the traffic matrixes are generated. The egress access router(s) for a flow are determined by searching for matching ingress and egress records. Matching records have identical source and destination addresses. This algorithm requires no knowledge of the complex topology and routing protocols that are used within packet networks. Sampled or non-sampled flow records may be used. The concepts in this invention may also be used to calculate traffic matrixes for virtual private networks (VPNs).
US07664112B2 Packet processing apparatus and method
A packet processing apparatus includes a packet processing engine and a search engine connected through a bus having a bandwidth which is equal to or greater than a total transmission bandwidth of one or more receiving ports. The packet processing engine is configured to append a device internal header containing a search key to each of the packets, transfer the packets to the search engine through the bus, and receive the packets whose device internal headers are provided with search result information from the search engine through the bus. The search engine includes a packet buffer for temporarily storing the packets, a search processing part for performing search processing on the basis of the search key in the device internal header, and means for transferring the search result information from the search processing part and the packets stored in the packet buffer to the packet processing engine.