Document Document Title
US07947230B2 Apparatus for regenerating catalyst
Disclosed is a catalyst distributor and process for spreading catalyst over a regenerator vessel. Nozzles disposed angular to a header of the distributor spread catalyst throughout a full cross section of the catalyst bed.
US07947229B2 Apparatus and method for dissolution reaction
When fly ash is added to a cement kiln to materialize it after being desalinated by washing, scale is prevented from growing in a dissolution reaction apparatus depositing calcium-containing compounds dissolved in slurry, and the fly ash is effectively used as a cement material. A dissolution reaction apparatus according to the invention comprises: a dissolution tub 3 for dissolving powder material, a wet dust collector 5 for collecting powder material and mist while reacting slurry S in the dissolution tub 3 with gas G and returning the collected powder material and mist to the dissolution tub 3. A second wet dust collector 7 can be provided for collecting powder material and the like accompanying to the gas G discharged from the wet dust collector 5, and both the wet dust collectors 5, 7 can be vertical type and mounted independently with each other on the dissolution tub 3. The slurry S and the gas G can react with each other with parallel flow by feeding the slurry S and the gas G to an upper portion of the first wet dust collector 5, or the powder material and the like accompanying to the gas G may be collected with counter flow by feeding the gas G discharged from the dissolution tub 3 to a lower portion of the second wet dust collector 7.
US07947217B2 Metallurgical processing installation
Metallurgical processing installation comprising a metallurgical vessel lined internally with water cooled panels. A vessel access tower (61) fits around vessel (11) and supports a coolant flow system (62) to provide for flow of cooling water to and from the cooling panels within the vessel through water inlet and outlet connections (42,43) distributed around the exterior of the vessel. Coolant flow system (62) includes large diameter water supply and return pipes (66,67) mounted on an upper part of the tower (61) to extend around the upper end of vessel (11), a first series of vertical dropper pipes (68) of relatively small diameter connected to the main water supply pipe 66 and extending downwardly to connections with the water inlet connectors for respecting cooling panels of the vessel and a second series of smaller diameter vertical pipes (69) connected at their upper ends to the main return pipe (67) and at their lower ends to undivided outlet connectors for the cooling panels in the vessel.
US07947211B2 Catalytic nanotemplates
A catalytic nanotemplate including a freestanding template particle and a director associated with the surface of the freestanding template particle. The free standing template particle may have multiple segments and the director may be associated with one or more of the segments. In instances where multiple segments are present, the segments may be made of different materials or be of the same material in different forms. More than one type of director or no director may be associated with any particular segment.
US07947207B2 Method for retaining a vascular stent on a catheter
A method of securely mounting a stent on a balloon of a catheter. The method generally includes crimping a stent on a balloon of a catheter at least one time, and positioning the balloon with the stent thereon within a polished bore of a mold formed at least in part of a metallic material. The balloon is pressurized and heated within the mold, or within a sheath, in two stages as the stent is restrained from radially expanding. The method may include crimping the stent onto the balloon one or two times during processing. The method increases retention of the stent on the balloon catheter following sterilization.
US07947203B2 Procedure and apparatus in dry forming of fibre layer
The invention relates to a procedure and an apparatus in dry formation of a fibre layer, in which procedure fibre-containing air is passed through a forming wire (7) moving via a former (2) or an equivalent distributor unit and further through a suction box (8) or equivalent placed below the forming wire, and which air is circulated back to the upper part of the same or another former. In the solution of the invention, the air circulated through the suction box (8) is passed to the upper part of the former via channels (17) with an adjustable flow rate.
US07947201B2 Poly(arylene ether)/polyamide composition and method of making
Disclosed herein is a masterbatch comprising the reaction product of 75 to 94.5 weight percent of a poly(arylene ether), 5 to 24.5 weight percent of a polyamide and 0.5 to 2.5 weight percent of citric acid, wherein weight percent is based on the combined weight of the poly(arylene ether), polyamide and citric acid. Methods of making and using the masterbatch are also described.
US07947200B2 Method of detecting a threshold temperature
A temperature switch comprises a material (14) which melts and concomitantly undergoes a change in an electrical characteristic at a predetermined temperature. The temperature switch also includes at least two electrical contacts (10, 12) for detecting the change in the electrical characteristic. The material (14) comprises an organic cation and an anion and is preferably an ionic liquid.
US07947191B2 Composite material composed of nanoparticles of transition metal and magnetic ferric oxide, a methode of preparing the same, and uses of the same
A composite material composed of nanoparticles of transition metal(s) and magnetic ferric oxide, a method of preparing the same, and uses of the same are provided. The composite material is substantially composed of nanoparticles of transition metal(s) or alloy thereof and nanoparticles of magnetic ferric oxide, the size of nanoparticles of transition metal(s) or alloy thereof is in the range of 0.7 to 5 nm, the size of nanoparticles of magnetic ferric oxide is in the range of 5 to 50 nm, and the amount of transition metal(s) or alloy thereof is in the range of 0.1 to 30 wt %, based on the total weight of composite material, the magnetic ferric oxide is gamma-Fe2O3, Fe3O4, complex obtained from gamma-Fe2O3 by partial reduction, or complex obtained from Fe3O4 by partial reduction. The composite material has a high reactivity and an extreme selectivity for industrial reaction of hydrogenating halogeno-nitro-aromaticics to obtain halogeno-arylamine, and has important industrial applicability because the problem such as hydrogenolysis-dehalogenation during preparing halogeno arylamine by hydrogenating halogeno-nitro-aromatics is fully resolved by using the composite materials.
US07947189B2 Vacuum processing apparatus and vacuum processing method of sample
A vacuum processing method includes mounting a sample to be processed on a sample mounting surface on a sample holder placed in a vacuum container whose inside can be depressurized, feeding a processing gas and electric field to a space above the sample holder inside of the vacuum container to generate plasma, and etching films of a plurality of layers laid over the surface of the sample into a predetermined shape. A heat conducting gas is fed between the sample mounting surface and the backside of the sample, and at the same time, the pressure of the heat conducting gas is changed stepwise in accordance with the progress of the processing of the films of a plurality of layers of the sample.
US07947187B2 Method of manufacturing piezoelectric resonator
When forming an opening conforming to a groove of a quartz resonator in a metal film serving as a mask of the quartz resonator by conducting etching, the outer periphery of the metal film is wavingly etched. Therefore, when the groove is formed on the quartz resonator, the quartz resonator is formed according to the above-described metal film, which results in appearance defects or dimension defects. In order to solve the problems, the outer shape of the metal film is formed smaller than the outer shape of the quartz resonator before forming the opening conforming to the groove of the quartz resonator in the metal film, then etching of the metal film and etching of the quartz resonator are performed.
US07947185B2 Water sanitation methods
Suspect contaminated water is sanitized by treating it to produce a clean water stream and a waste water stream. A portion of the waste water stream is electrolyzed to provide a solution containing hypochlorite ions, a quantity of which is mixed with the suspect water in sufficient quantity to sanitize the suspect water and maintain sufficient residual chlorine to prevent re-contamination.
US07947182B2 Naphthenic acid removal process
A process is disclosed for removing naphthenic acid from a waste water stream using a composition containing a zeolite and carbon, wherein the carbon is present on the exterior surfaces and pore surfaces of the zeolite, for removal of at least a portion of the naphthenic acid from the waste water stream resulting in a treated water stream comprising less naphthenic acid than the waste water stream.
US07947170B2 Apparatus for treatment of chemical mechanical polishing fluid
Embodiments of the invention generally provide a method and an apparatus for treating waste effluents from substrate polishing processes, such as from an electrochemical mechanical polishing (ECMP) process. In one embodiment, a method for treating a waste effluent mixture generated during a substrate process is provided which includes flowing a waste effluent comprising chelated metal complexes from a substrate process system, combining an oxidizing agent and the waste effluent to produce free chelators, flowing the waste effluent through an organoclay media and an activated carbon media to remove the free chelators, and flowing the waste effluent through an anion exchange resin to remove metal ions and produce a waste water.
US07947166B2 Method for desulfurizing hydrocarbon fractions from steam cracking effluents
The present invention relates to a method for treating a feed corresponding to a pyrolysis gasoline, comprising: a) at least one stage of selective hydrogenation of the feed, referred to as HD1, b) fractionating in one or more distillation columns the effluent from stage a) in order to produce at least one light C5 cut, an intermediate C6 or C6-C7 or C6-C8 cut intended for aromatics production, a heavy C7+ or C8+ or C9+ cut intended for gasoline production, c) at least one stage of hydrodesulfurization and deep hydrogenation of the intermediate cut, referred to as HD2, d) at least one stage of alkylation of the heavy C7+, C8+ or C9+ cut consisting of a treatment on an acid catalyst allowing weighting of the sulfur compounds, e) at least one stage of distillation of the effluent from stage d), intended to produce a light fraction that can be directly used as a low-sulfur gasoline base, and a heavy C11+ or C12+ fraction rich in sulfur compounds, used as middle distillate or fuel oil.
US07947161B2 Method of operating an electroplating cell with hydrodynamics facilitating more uniform deposition on a workpiece with through holes
A method and apparatus for establishing more uniform deposition across one or more faces of a workpiece in an electroplating process. The apparatus employs eductors in conjunction with a flow dampener member and other measures to provide a more uniform current distribution and a more uniform metal deposit distribution as reflected in a coefficient of variability that is lower than conventional processes.
US07947159B2 NOx-decomposing electrode and method for producing NOx sensor
A NOx-decomposing electrode is provided having a certain or a high NOx-decomposing/reducing ability, which is formed on a third solid electrolyte layer for decomposing a NOx to produce oxygen. The detecting electrode contains a noble metal Pt, a material ZrO2 of the third solid electrolyte layer, and a mixture containing silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3). Specifically, the detecting electrode contains 80% to 90% by weight of the Pt, 9.5% to 19.8% by weight of the ZrO2, and 0.2% to 0.5% by weight of the mixture containing silica and alumina.
US07947156B2 Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method
A substrate processing apparatus can carry out removal of a passive layer (ruthenium oxide) present on a surface of a ruthenium film and electroplating successively, and can reduce the terminal effect at the time of the removal of the passive layer (ruthenium oxide) from the ruthenium film. The substrate processing apparatus includes: an electrolytic processing apparatus for electrochemically removing a passive layer, formed on a surface of a ruthenium film on a substrate, by electrolytic processing with the ruthenium film as a cathode; a copper electroplating apparatus for carrying out copper electroplating on the surface of the ruthenium film on the substrate; and an apparatus frame housing the electrolytic processing apparatus and the copper electroplating apparatus.
US07947147B2 Nonwoven/film laminates
The invention relates to a method for producing nonwoven/film laminates for personal hygiene articles, from an initial film web consisting of a thermoplastic polymer and an initial nonwoven web. According to said method, the initial film web and the initial nonwoven web, whose melting point lies above the crystallite melting point of the polymer, are heated to a temperature that exceeds the crystallite melting point of the polymer and lies below the melting point of the initial nonwoven web. The laminate is then guided through a cooled nip and is cooled to a temperature that lies below the crystallite melting point of the initial film web. The invention also relates to laminates that can be produced by said method.
US07947145B2 Method for making carbon nanotube composite
A method for making a carbon nanotube composite includes: (a) providing at least one carbon nanotube film and at least one polymer film; (b) forming a carbon nanotube film structure with the carbon nanotube film on a surface of the polymer film to obtain a carbon nanotube composite preform; (c) pre-combining the carbon nanotube composite preform to obtain a treated carbon nanotube composite preform; and (d) heating and pressing at least one treated carbon nanotube composite preform to achieve a carbon nanotube composite.
US07947141B2 Method for manufacturing pneumatic tire
Provided is a method of manufacturing a pneumatic tire, which is capable of reducing tire failure without leading to reduction in productivity, the method including: folding a cylindrical film made of thermoplastic resin or thermoplastic elastomer composition into a sheet shape; stacking rubber layers on both surfaces of the folded film in a manner that the rubber layers protrude from both edge portions of the film; forming a laminate by cutting protruding parts of the rubber layers into rubber protruding portions each having an amount of protrusion (h) in a range from 3 mm to 20 mm; expanding the laminate into a cylindrical shape and fitting the laminate onto a tire making drum; pressing down each rubber protruding portion toward the surface of the drum by use of a pressure roller; pasting other components of a tire onto the laminate to form an uncured tire; and curing the uncured tire.
US07947139B2 Systems and methods for creating textured laminates
Embodiments of the present invention provide an improved and economical system and method for viewing proposed texture designs for textured decorative laminates without having to make a press plate and a sample laminate. Embodiments of the present invention further provide systems and methods for making sample laminates and for registering a sample press plate with the laminate's decorative design when manufacturing a sample laminate. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention utilize transparent sheets, such as acetate films, in novel ways during the design of textured laminate press plates and during the registration of the press plate and the laminate's decorative layer.
US07947137B2 Nitrous oxide based explosives and methods for making same
An explosive device and methods for forming same, the device comprising a portion of nitrous oxide and a portion of fuel. In one example, the explosive device may include a first storage area containing said portion of nitrous oxide, and a second storage area containing said portion of fuel, wherein the first storage area selectively maintains the portion of nitrous oxide separated from the fuel in the second storage area prior to detonation of the explosive device. In another example, in the event the explosive fails to detonate, the explosive device may include a vent valve for discharging the nitrous oxide from the explosive device to reduce or eliminate its explosive characteristics. The explosive device can be used for various applications, including but not limited to military weapons, pyrotechnic devices, or civil blasting explosives, for example.
US07947124B2 High electrical resistivity ink jet ink composition
Disclosed is an ink jet ink composition having reduced ink buildup on the printer nozzle plate. The ink jet ink composition comprises a non-conductive solvent, one or more binder resins that are soluble in the non-conductive solvent, and a colorant soluble in the non-conductive solvent. Also disclosed is a method of printing on statically charged substrates. The ink jet ink composition provides one or more advantages: reduced ink buildup on the printer nozzle, reduced down time or cleaning time, and improved print quality.
US07947118B2 Containerized gas separation system
Containerized gas separation system comprising (a) a container having an interior, an exterior, and an exterior volume defined by the exterior dimensions of the container and (b) a pressure swing adsorption system installed in the interior of the container and adapted to recover a product gas from a feed gas mixture, the pressure swing adsorption system being adapted to deliver the product gas at a product gas flow rate, wherein the ratio of the exterior volume of the container to the product gas flow rate is less than about 2000 ft3/(ton per day).
US07947115B2 System and method for generation of high pressure air in an integrated gasification combined cycle system
An integrated gasification combined cycle system. In one embodiment (FIG. 2) a system (200) includes an ion transport membrane air separation unit (210) for producing oxygen-enriched gas (209) and oxygen-depleted air (227), a gasification system (5) for generating syngas with the oxygen-enriched gas (209), a gas combustor (234) for reacting the syngas (224), and a subsystem configured to provide a first stream of air to the combustor (234) at a first pressure and to provide a second stream of air to the air separation unit (210) at a second pressure greater than the first pressure. The subsystem includes a compressor (230) having multi-pressure outlets (203, 204).
US07947113B2 Artificial lung
An artificial lung includes a housing, a tubular hollow fiber membrane bundle contained in the housing and providing a multiplicity of hollow fiber membranes having a gas exchange function, a gas inflow port and a gas outflow port communicating with each other through hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes, and a blood inflow port and a blood outflow port through which blood is distributed. The tubular hollow fiber membrane bundle has a cylindrical overall shape, and a filter member having a bubble-trapping function is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the tubular hollow fiber membrane bundle.
US07947111B2 Methods and materials for the reduction and control of moisture and oxygen in OLED devices
Novel uses and methods of use for inorganic and macroreticulate polymer bonding to metals to control moisture and oxygen in OLED, and other like devices, are provided. Materials having color change capacity are also provided for the removal of moisture from an OLED, where the material changes color upon reaching its capacity and thereby signals the user that the OLED is no longer protected from moisture damage.
US07947110B2 Methods for operating a filtration system
A method of operating a filtration system that filters flue gas, which includes particulate matter and a gaseous pollutant. The filtration system may include a fabric filter, which is cleaned with periodic pulse cleanings, a discharge electrode upstream of the fabric filter, which imparts an electric charge to at least some of the particulate matter before the particulate matter collects on the fabric filter, a sorbent, which is injected into the flue gas upstream of the fabric filter and absorbs at least some of the gaseous pollutant, and a fan, which draws the flue gas through the fabric filter. The filtration system may have a pulse cleaning interval setting that may be manipulated by an operator of the filtration system. The pulse cleaning interval setting may be the time between the pulse cleanings. The method may include the steps of: determining a cost of operating the filtration system at a first pulse cleaning interval setting; determining a cost of operating the filtration system at a second pulse cleaning interval setting; and comparing the cost of operating the filtration system at the first pulse cleaning interval setting with the cost of operating the filtration system at the second pulse cleaning interval.
US07947108B2 Precious metal recovery using thiocyanate lixiviant
Mineral materials comprising copper and precious metal are subjected to an acidic leach of the copper followed by an acidic thiocyanate leach of the precious metal.
US07947106B2 Sb-Te alloy powder for sintering, sintered compact sputtering target obtained by sintering said powder, and manufacturing method of Sb-Te alloy powder for sintering
Provided is Sb—Te alloy powder for sintering in which the maximum grain size of the powder obtained by subjecting gas atomized powder of an Sb—Te alloy to mechanical pulverization is 90 μm or less, and a sintered compact sputtering target obtained by sintering this powder. Further provided is a manufacturing method of Sb—Te alloy powder for a sintered compact sputtering target including the steps of dissolving an Sb—Te alloy, thereafter subjecting this to gas atomization to obtain atomized powder, and further subjecting this to mechanical pulverization in an inert atmosphere without any atmospheric exposure so as to manufacture powder having a maximum grain size of 90 μm or less and reduced oxygen content. Thus, the Sb—Te alloy sputtering target structure can be uniformalized and refined, generation of cracks in the sintered target can be inhibited, and generation of arcing during sputtering can be inhibited. Further, surface ruggedness caused by sputter erosion can be reduced in order to obtain a high quality Sb—Te alloy sputtering target.
US07947103B2 Honeycomb structure and method for producing same
Disclosed is a honeycomb structure which is bonded with a bonding material containing 0.1 to 10 mass % of a layered clay mineral. Also disclosed are a honeycomb structure which is bonded with a bonding material containing 0.1 to 10 mass % of an organic binder, and a honeycomb structure which is bonded with a bonding material having a Casson yield value of 6 Pa or more. Further disclosed is a method for producing such a honeycomb structure.
US07947102B2 Soot filter
An improved ceramic honeycomb filter has at least one porous partition wall defining a channel that is (1) microstructurally different along the length of the channel, (2) microstructurally different than at least a portion of a partition wall defining another channel or (3) combination thereof. The improved filter may be used for filtering Diesel exhaust and may have reduced back pressure and equivalent soot capture efficiency compared to a filter without having said microstructural differences.
US07947096B2 Hydrogen generator
This invention relates to a hydrogen generator system for generating hydrogen from a water split reaction. The generator comprises a pressure container having a reactant water inlet, and a product hydrogen outlet. Pluralities of cells are vertically stacked inside the container; each cell contains a reactant compound comprising a mechanical mixture of metal and an anti-passivation material. The reactant compound produces hydrogen gas upon contact with water, and the cells are stacked such that water entering from the inlet can rise inside the container and sequentially activate each immersed cell to produce hydrogen gas.
US07947094B2 Microcartridge hydrogen generator
A hydrogen generator (101) is provided which comprises a third chamber (109) containing a catalyst (121), a first chamber (103) containing a fluid, a second chamber (105) containing a material that reacts with the fluid in the presence of the catalyst to generate hydrogen gas, and a valve (111) movable from a first position in which the flow of fluid along a pathway including the first, second and third chambers is enabled, to a second position in which the flow of fluid along the pathway is prevented.
US07947091B2 Curcumin and its derivatives for use as silicone colorants
Colored silicone polymers and elastomers are described herein wherein the colorants used in the composition provide tint to the polymer, but are capable of retaining transparency of the substrate if desired. The colorants include curcumin and/or a derivative thereof.
US07947087B2 Color transfer inhibitors, detergent compositions containing the same and uses therefor
Detergent compositions comprising a color transfer inhibitor and optionally surfactant(s), the color transfer inhibitor comprising one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of triazine derivatives corresponding to general formulae I and II: T(NH—Ar(CO2M)a)bHalc  (I) X—NH—CH2CH2—(NY—CH2CH2—)nNH—X  (II) wherein T represents a 1,3,5-triazinyl group; Ar represents a phenyl group; each M independently represents a substituent selected from the group consisting of H, Na, Li, and K; each Hal independently represents a halogen selected from the group consisting of Cl, Br, and I; each a independently represents 1, 2 or 3; b and c each represent 1 or 2 wherein b+c=3; each X represents a T(NH—Ar(CO2M)a)bHalc−1 group; each Y independently represents H or X; and n represents a number of 0 to 50, and uses therefor in washing and treating dyed and/or undyed textiles.
US07947082B2 System and method for joint arthroplasty
An orthopaedic joint prosthesis may include a first component, a bearing component, and a third component. The first component has a base and a keel protruding from the base to extend into a first bone. The keel's longitudinal axis is offset from a geometric center of the base. The base has a first articular surface and the bearing component has a second articular surface shaped to articulate with the first articular surface. A feature unitary with the first component reversibly attaches to the bearing component. The bearing component has a third articular surface shaped to articulate with a fourth articular surface on the third component. A distraction feature of the bearing component is shaped to provide alignment and/or distraction between the first articular surface and the fourth articular surface during insertion of the bearing component into a joint space between the first and second bones.
US07947078B2 Devices for forming curved or closed-loop structures
A device for forming structurally stable curved structures includes an elongated element (10) with a number of segments (12) interconnected at effective hinges (14) to allow deflection of each segment relative to adjacent segments between a reduced-curvature state and a flexed state. Neighboring segments have interlocking features (16) forming an inter-segment locking configuration such that, when the segments are deflected from the reduced-curvature state to the flexed state, the interlocking features interlock adjacent of the segments so as to retain the segments in the flexed state corresponding to a predefined curved configuration of the elongated element. Additionally, or alternatively, a leading portion (44) and a rear portion (40) of the elongated element have features forming at least part of a loop-lock configuration effective to lock together the leading portion and the rear portion so as to form a closed loop structure.
US07947058B2 Bladeless optical obturator
The invention is directed to a bladeless trocar obturator to separate or divaricate body tissue during insertion through a body wall. In one aspect, the obturator of the invention comprises a shaft extending along an axis between a proximal end and a distal end; and a bladeless tip disposed at the distal end of the shaft and having a generally tapered configuration with an outer surface, the outer surface extending distally to a blunt point with a pair of side sections having a common shape and being separated by at least one intermediate section, wherein each of the side sections extends from the blunt point radially outwardly with progressive positions proximally along the axis, and the shaft is sized and configured to receive an optical instrument having a distal end to receive an image of the body tissue. With this aspect, the tapered configuration facilitates separation of different layers of the body tissue and provides proper alignment of the tip between the layers. The side sections include a distal portion and a proximal portion, the distal portion of the side sections being twisted radially with respect to the proximal portion of the side sections. The intermediate section includes a distal portion and a proximal portion, the distal portion of the intermediate section being twisted in a first radial direction and the proximal portion of the intermediate section being twisted in a second radial direction opposite the first radial direction.
US07947056B2 Steerable sphincterotome and methods for cannulation, papillotomy and sphincterotomy
The present invention relates to methodology of and apparatus for accurately positioning devices for performing endoscopic cannulation, papillotomy and sphincterotomy and similar procedures. The sphincterotome with a steerable or adjustable distal segment of the present invention allows the physician to control the position of the distal tip of the device independently of the endoscope and adjust for inconsistencies in the device and the anatomy. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a threaded portion of a cable assembly cooperates with a torque transmission element and a cog to enable the operator to rotate a cutting wire into a desired position relative to the catheter. Alternate embodiments allow the operator to fix the depth of a needle knife while allowing, if desired, accurate rotational positioning of the associated catheter. Threaded stabilizing elements, pivot elements and a steering wire may be used together or individually to accomplish these features. Presently available products that may be modified according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, Boston Scientific Sphincterotomes and Needle Knives.
US07947046B2 Anchor extenders for minimally invasive surgical procedures
Systems for positioning a connecting element adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive surgical procedures include one or more extenders removably engaged to one or more anchors engaged to a bony segment. The anchor extenders provide a reference to the respective anchor locations within the patient even when the anchor is obstructed by skin and/or tissue of the patient. An inserter can be movably mounted to the one or more anchor extenders, or an inserter can be employed without mounting to the one or more anchor extenders. In either form, the inserter is operable to position a stabilization element relative to the anchors for engagement to the anchors to stabilize the bony segment to which the anchors are engaged. At least one of the one or more anchor extenders includes a reduction assembly that is operable to move one or more portions of the bony segment while maintaining the minimally invasive character of the procedure.
US07947042B2 Biologic intramedullary fixation device and methods of use
A biologic intramedullary fixation device for treating a bone fracture includes an internal tubular wall formed of a bioabsorbable synthetic material; and an outer wall coupled with and surrounding the internal tubular wall with an annular space therebetween. The outer wall is at least partially fenestrated and is formed of the bioabsorbable synthetic material. A biologically replaceable cement material is injectable into the annular space between the internal tubular wall and the outer wall.
US07947038B2 Obesity treatment system including inflatable balloon structures with micropores for transport of liquid
An obesity treatment system has a first treatment region sized and configured for deployment in a duodenum and a second treatment region sized and configured for deployment in a stomach. The first and second treatment regions are spaced apart a distance sized and configured to permit simultaneous deployment of the first treatment region in the duodenum and deployment of the second treatment region in the stomach. The first and second treatment regions each carry at least one electrode, which can deliver energy to ablate tissue in and the duodenum.
US07947025B2 Pouch for collecting human body waste and drainage adapter therefor
A drainable urine pouch includes a discharge portion that is foldable between a discharge position and a closed position. A security flap is sealed to both walls of the pouch by a through weld, to define a baffle near the discharge portion. The discharge portion includes a constriction, and a stepped profile with multiple step stages. The discharge portion has one or more bias members. A drainage adapter is releasably coupled to the discharge portion. The drainage adapter has a plug with a shoulder for abutting the constriction in the discharge portion, to locate the adapter correctly for obtaining a liquid-tight seal.
US07947018B2 Rotationally activated blood control
A medical device having a vascular access device including a rotationally activated flow control valve having, a body including a distal adapter and a proximal adapter defining a lumen extending therethrough and a septum. A method of use in which the connection of first and second medical devices results in the automatic activation of the rotational flow control valve.
US07947016B2 Scored catheter device
A catheter device including an elongate tubular shaft having a consistent material composition for a substantial proportion of its length. The device includes a proximal shaft portion having a first flexibility and a distal shaft portion having a second flexibility, wherein the second flexibility is greater than the first flexibility and wherein at least the distal shaft portion comprises at least one score in a surface thereof. The device includes a wholly external wire guide structure secured to the tubular shaft by a figure-eight polymer sleeve.
US07947010B2 Composition and system for wound decontamination
The present disclosure is directed to a cleansing solution and system for administering the cleansing solution to decontaminate a wound surface. A method and kit for decontaminating a wound surface is also provided.
US07947008B2 Shunt and method treatment of glaucoma
This invention provides a shunt for implantation between the anterior chamber of the eye and the epithelial-lined space through the frontal sinus bone of a patient for the treatment of glaucoma. The shunt includes a tube having a length sufficient to span the distance between the anterior chamber of the eye and the epithelial-lined space of the patient, the tube having an open anterior chamber end and a closed epithelial-lined space end, and a seal device associated with the tube between the anterior chamber and epithelial-lined space ends, for sealing a hole in the frontal sinus bone, and for anchoring the tube against movement from the frontal sinus bone. The shunt also includes a fluid pressure openable valve in the tube, located at or near the epithelial-lined space sinus end, allowing for controlled flow of aqueous humor through the tube when implanted. The invention also extends to a method of treating glaucoma in a patient by surgically implanting the shunt between the anterior chamber of the eye and the frontal sinus.
US07947005B2 One piece brace liner having multiple adjustment zones
A joint protecting brace includes a cuff member. The cuff member includes a pair of upper lateral and lower lateral tightening portions positioned on opposed sides of a cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a liner disposed between and coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and lower lateral tightening portions and extending along the cuff longitudinal axis. The cuff member further includes a connector coupled to a latitudinal strap. The cuff member further includes a first adjuster coupled to the upper lateral tightening portions and the connector. The cuff member further includes a second adjuster coupled to the lower lateral tightening portions and the connector. The first and second adjusters are disposed in tension for adjusting a distance between the upper and lower lateral tightening portions respectively. The first and second adjusters are communicable via the connector.
US07946999B2 High performance coil wire
A high performance coil over-core guide wire. The guide wire incorporates a nickel-titanium core with a stainless steel coil to provide a wire with improved kink resistance and good pushability.
US07946991B2 Ultrasonic doppler blood flow measuring device
A technology for performing the filter processing of blood flow velocity data having aliasing by only common filter processing means and common addition and subtraction means and actualizing image display of smooth blood flow velocity is disclosed. According to this technology, when performing image display of the blood flow velocity of blood within a subject biological body using an ultrasonic wave Doppler method, the difference values of data D33 of an arbitrary focus point and data D32 and D34 of points spatially prior and subsequent to this focus point are calculated in the pre-processing unit (difference calculating unit) 41. Then, in the filtering unit 42, after filter processing is performed on these difference values, data D39 after filter processing and data D33 of the arbitrary focus point are added in the post-processing unit (addition processing unit) 43. In this way, a filter processing can be performed under the assumption that the velocity difference is smaller than the velocity difference generated by the aliasing phenomenon, and filter processing of the blood flow velocity value in the sound ray direction of the ultrasonic waves can be performed without being influenced by aliasing.
US07946987B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus
The present invention aims at providing an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of displaying a stable spatial distribution of elastic characteristics for each heart beat without depending on the measurement of blood pressure and the accuracy or stability of such measurement, where an ultrasonic wave transmitted from an ultrasonic probe 13 and reflected by biomedical tissue is input to a computing section 19 by way of a receiving section 15, a delay time control section 16, phase detection section 17 and filter section 18. In accordance with the phase detection signal acquired from the phase detection section 17, the computing section 19 computes a relative elastic characteristic which is an elastic characteristic normalized by an elastic characteristic of an arbitrary reference area in the biomedical tissue. A distribution of relative elastic characteristics computed by the computing section is displayed on a display section 21.
US07946985B2 Method and system for providing sensor redundancy
A closed loop system or semi-closed loop system for infusing insulin using sensor values applies a redundant sensor system as a fail-safe method against sensor failure. The redundant glucose sensors are used corroborate each other and a failing sensor is detected if the sensors no longer corroborate each other. The use of redundant sensors has the additional benefit of producing better sensor signals compared to the use of a single sensor.
US07946980B2 Modular, zone-specific medical electrical lead design
A medical electrical lead configured to be coupled to a pulse generator in a cardiac rhythm management system. The lead comprises a proximal terminal connector configured for coupling the lead to the pulse generator, and a plurality of longitudinally arranged lead segments each configured to exhibit one or more predetermined physical characteristics based on the implantation location for the respective segment. The lead segments may be pre-fabricated as separate modules optimized for the operating environment and/or delivery requirements of the respective segments. The pre-fabricated modules are longitudinally arranged and joined to form the lead.
US07946979B2 Immobilizable in vivo sensing device
An in vivo sensing device including an immobilizer that may immobilize the device in an in vivo location. The immobilizer may be activated by for example a processor or in response to an in vivo condition or in response to a signal from an outside operator.
US07946974B2 Biomedical device for treating by virtual immersion
The invention relates to a biomedical device comprising computing means, immersion means for dipping a patient in a virtual intelligent environment, an interface for controlling the computing means, operating the immersion means and for collecting results of related medical means and different means for obtaining said results. The inventive device is characterized in that the computing means are used for controlling the immersion means in such a way that virtual three-dimensional therapeutic environments comprising a virtual person in the form of the patient, a closed three-dimensional envelop emitting at a determined light frequency which envelops the person and any scenery in which the virtual person and the closed radiating envelop thereof are located for receiving a determined psycho-neuro-immunologic response, which is positive for the organism, are formed. In particular the inventive method consists in progressively increasing the light frequency of the closed envelop and of the person receiving said radiation.
US07946963B1 Exercise cycle
An exercise cycle includes a base frame having front and rear wheels and a seat slidably mounted thereon. A pair of pivotal foot pedals operate a steering mechanism to turn the front wheels toward the left or right. Between the foot pedals is a vertical support bar having a drive pawl at an upper end with a cable spirally wrapped thereabout. A handle affixed to the distal end of the cable is accessible by a rider resting in the seat. A drive chain encompasses a gear on a side of the pawl and a similar gear on the rear wheel axle. Accordingly, a rider sits on the seat, grasps the handle and places the feet on the foot pedals. By pushing with the legs and simultaneously pulling the cable, the rider propels the cycle while simulating the workout typically provided by a rowing machine.
US07946962B2 Elliptical exercise apparatus
This invention discloses an elliptical exercise apparatus that is characterized in having left and right tracks disposed in a guider frame which is pivotally coupled to a rear portion of the elliptical exercise apparatus. When a user uses the elliptical exercise apparatus, the guider frame is at a use position. When the user folds the elliptical exercise apparatus, the guider frame is at a storage position. A user can complete folding procedure merely by operating the guider frame.
US07946956B2 Braking/driving force control device
A braking/driving force control device for changing output torque by controlling torque or a rotation number of a power source includes a unit for setting a plurality of ranges by a plurality of parameters including an output rotation number, a range judging unit that judges that a range corresponds to any of the plurality of ranges based on the parameter while driving, and a control unit that controls the torque or the rotation number of the power source based on a driving environment and a range judgment result by the range judging unit. This enables driving regulation control by, for example, a driving environment other than intentional shifting operation by a driver, in a vehicle of a type without a transmission.
US07946953B2 Dual clutch transmission
A dual clutch transmission includes a group of odd-numbered speed drive trains, including at least a first speed drive train to be driven for setting a first speed serving as the lowest speed; a first clutch to be engaged for driving any one of the odd-numbered speed drive trains including the first speed drive train; a group of even-numbered speed drive trains, including at least a second speed drive train to be driven for setting a second speed serving as the second lowest speed; a second clutch to be engaged for driving any one of the even-numbered speed drive trains including the second speed drive train; an automatic speed control system for selecting one of all the odd-and-even numbered speed drive trains to be driven, and for selecting either the first or second clutch to be engaged for driving the selected speed drive train in correspondence to a traveling speed of a vehicle equipped with the dual clutch transmission; and a manual selection device for selecting any one of all the odd-and-even numbered speed drive trains, including the second speed drive train and excluding the first speed drive train, as a starting-and-stopping speed drive train to be driven when the vehicle starts and immediately before the vehicle stops.
US07946952B2 Forward clutch high pressure holding valve for hybrid vehicles to enable engine start-stop-drive functions
A transmission for a hybrid vehicle including a combustion engine and an electric propulsion system may include a forward clutch assembly, a fluid chamber, a fluid supply, and a forward clutch holding valve. The forward clutch assembly may include a hydraulically actuated clutch member in communication with the fluid chamber. The forward clutch holding valve may be in communication with the fluid chamber and the fluid supply. The valve may provide communication between the fluid supply and the fluid chamber when in a first position and may seal the fluid chamber when in a second position, thereby maintaining a fixed quantity of fluid within the fluid chamber.
US07946950B2 8-speed transmissions
The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes three planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, two fixed interconnections and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
US07946928B2 Measurement and analysis of foot related forces during a golf swing
Apparatus (1) comprises a standing surface (2) for the player; a communication means (27); and a plurality of sensors (11) which are operable to measure force. The standing surface (2) comprises two separate foot platforms (3, 4) for the player's feet. Each foot platform (3, 4) comprises a supporting structure or supporting members where vertical forces are distributed to a plurality of discrete positions (5). The sensors (11) are located at the discrete positions (5) to which the vertical forces are distributed. The sensors (11) are operable to measure vertical forces. The apparatus also comprises a computing means (26) which is operable to analyze the swing, and includes means to receive and separately process signals from individual or groups of sensors (11); means to determine the relative magnitudes and positions of resultant forces by balance-resolution of forces, including individual forces, measured by the sensors (11) in relation to the discrete positions of the sensors (11); and means to analyze and evaluate numerical data related to the measured positions and magnitudes of the forces.
US07946918B2 Allowing media and gaming environments to effectively interact and/or affect each other
Techniques for allowing gaming and media environments to interact with which each other and/or affect each other are disclosed. The techniques are highly suitable for computing systems (or devices) that can execute games and/or present media. In one embodiment, a gaming environment can be determined and/or affected based on one or more aspects of a media environment. By way of example, gaming content and/or the gaming experience provided and/or suggested to an individual can be tailored based on his/her musical profile effectively obtained from the media environment associated with the individual (e.g., based on favorite songs, songs recently played, songs purchased). Similarly, a media environment can be determined and/or or affected by a gaming environment. By way of example, musical content provided and/or suggested to an individual can be based on his/her gaming profile (games played, games purchased, manner in which a game is played). In addition, an open media-gaming environment can be provided where various media and gaming components can be integrated together. By way of example, an individual can identify one or more of his favorite songs to be presented for a game. The game can be packaged and/or sold without the song(s) but configured to receive and effectively provide them for game play.
US07946915B2 Multi-player bingo game with real-time game-winning pattern determination
The invention is directed to methods and gaming units for conducting a multi-player wagering game, such as a Bingo game, in which at least one of the players may win the occurrence of the wagering game by matching a predetermined game-winning pattern of game indicia on a game array having a unique combination of game indicia based on matching the game indicia on the game array to game indicia randomly selected for the occurrence of the wagering game. The game-winning pattern or patterns for an occurrence of the wagering game may be determined for each occurrence based on the total number of game arrays enrolled in the occurrence of the wagering game. The game-winning patterns may be determined so that a desired statistical distribution of the number of randomly selected game indicia required for a player to match a game-winning pattern may be achieved regardless of the total number of game arrays enrolled by the players.
US07946913B2 System and method for operating on-line governmental lottery games
A method of verifying a geographic location of a participant of an on-line governmental lottery game includes accessing an agent server via the Internet from a player terminal. A request is provided for the participant to enter a telephone number where the participant can be reached and a verification code is provided. The entered telephone number is received. The geographic location of the received telephone number is determined. A telephone connection is established by calling the received telephone number. The verification code is received over the telephone connection. The participant is authorized to participate in the lottery game when the geographic location of the received telephone number is determined to be within an authorized jurisdiction and when the verification code received from the participant matches the verification code provided by the agent server.
US07946912B1 Roulette system
A gaming system for games, including roulette, wherein a projection system, preferably with a laser, is utilized for illuminating selected areas of the roulette game table in order to highlight the winning bets, enhance security, provide for a consistent signal for closing of the betting period, provide advertising, and/or display messages at selected time during or between play of the game determined by sensing the motion of the wheel and/or ball and table activity.
US07946910B2 Substantially simultaneous intermittent contest
Provided, inter alia, is a type of contest in which, at various intervals, geographically dispersed players attempt to answer the identical problem at substantially the same time. In representative embodiments, problems (typically, questions) are made available at seemingly random times throughout the day (or throughout some specified time interval), and players have the opportunity either to respond to the problem or (e.g., in the event that a given player is occupied when a particular problem arises) to pass on the current problem and wait for another one. In such embodiments, more questions are made available than the players are permitted to answer in accordance with the rules of the game, so that players have flexibility as to when they participate.
US07946909B2 Ordered execution of actions in a game environment
A system and method are disclosed for ordered execution of actions in a game environment is disclosed. An indication of a first object having been targeted in the game environment may be received whereby the object is assigned a first target slot. An indication of a second object having been targeted in the game environment may then be received, this second targeted object being assigned a second target slot. An action is then executed in the game environment with respect to each of the targeted objects in response to a command from an input device. The execution of the action with respect to each of the targeted objects may occur in accordance with an order defined by the target slots.
US07946908B2 Flexible louver opening adjustment mechanism for a pivoting combine harvester cleaning element
A cleaning element for a combine harvester having a plurality of cleaning element frames pivotable about parallel longitudinal axes. Each of the cleaning elements has a plurality of pivotal louvers connected to a longitudinal actuating element extending coaxially through the longitudinal pivoting axis of the cleaning frame. A ball joint connects the actuating element with an actuator so that pivoting of the louvers is accomplished independent of the pivoting of the cleaning element frame.
US07946907B2 Saw blade gullet configuration
A saw blade includes a circular core having a plurality of cutters disposed along a periphery thereof, and a central bore configured to receive an arbor of a rotating power tool. A plurality of gullets is located in spaced relation between the cutters, extending radially inward from the periphery. Each of the gullets includes a neck portion defined by side walls extending radially inward and extending divergently from one another into an arcuate base. The arcuate base extends along concave arcs to a linear base portion disposed at a radially innermost portion thereof, and which intersects a radius of the saw blade.
US07946906B2 Tile saw with laser guide
A tile cutting machine includes a tub for receiving water and a tile to be cut therein. A cutting head assembly having a motor driven blade is positioned above a tile supporting surface located in the tub and is movable with respect thereto. A laser projects a line of light from the cutting head assembly down onto the tile supporting surface to provide a visual representation of a cutting path of the blade. A scale permits measurement of a tile to be cut. The laser may be used with the scale to allow a user to quickly determine cutting widths without the need to manually mark the object to be cut. A light source, such as an LED, may be incorporated in the cutting head to illuminate an interior of the tub during operation of the tile cutting machine.
US07946904B1 Bra having supportive camisole
A bra having a cover panel in the appearance of a camisole uses a bra construction with bra cups, with relatively wide shoulder straps that meet in a generally U-shaped joinder. A pair of torso straps extend laterally from either side of the U-shaped joinder and connect to a respective one of the bra cups, one of the two straps being in two sections with the ends of the two sections each having one portion of a typical closure, such that the closure is located under an armpit of a wearer when the bra is donned. The cover panel attaches to a lower edge of the bra and has support straps that attach to the shoulder straps substantially along the length of the shoulder straps so that the cover panel, in addition to being decorative, provides additional confinement and lift to the breasts of the wearer.
US07946901B2 Figurine with selectable audio and visual perception
A figurine and method of use is having selectable personalization includes a doll having a head and torso, also a base disposed adjacent to the head, the base including a surrounding sidewall extending from a bottom portion to an opening defining a first interior that receives a first selected indicia. Further, a transparent cover including an outer periphery that is removably engaged from the sidewall opening. The cover having a first side and second side forming a concave profile to define a second interior portion, with the second side adjacent to the base when the cover and base are engaged, wherein the first and second interior portions form a chamber for the first indicia to be protectively and securely displayed. The base and cover engagement prevents unauthorized removal of the first indicia from the chamber by requiring a tool to separate the base and the cover.
US07946900B2 Fabrication method of discharge lamp
A fabrication method for discharge lamps is disclosed, which comprises providing a glass tube of diameter between 2 and 20 mm, the glass tube having an inner wall coated with a fluorescent phosphor and having a through-passage with a first end and a second end, connecting a first dielectric electrode to the first end of the glass tube by applying an adhesive to a contacted portion of the glass tube and the first dielectric electrode, and sintering the contacted portion of the glass tube and the first dielectric electrode to securely connect the glass tube and the first dielectric electrode. Subsequently, processes of filling and sealing are conducted to complete the fabrication of the discharge lamps.
US07946890B1 Adapter for an electronic assembly
An assembly having a first element that provides a signal that is received by a second element. The assembly includes a signal guide/transporter transporting the signal from the first to the second element and including a first and second connector/plug connected to the first and second elements, respectively. The assembly further includes an adapter for transmitting information to the first element and a third and fourth connector/plug. The third connector/plug is coupled to the first connector/plug to receive the signal, and the fourth connector/plug is coupled to the second connector/plug to transmit the signal received by the third connector/plug to the second connector/plug. The third and first connectors/plugs are adapted to forward the information transmitted by the adapter to the first element.
US07946886B1 Contact of coaxial cable connector
A coaxial cable connector includes a connector body, a contact chamber, a copper sleeve, and an observation window opening. A central contact bore is formed inside the observation window opening and an insulation layer is set between the central contact bore and the contact chamber. The central contact bore has a notch formed in a side thereof close to the copper sleeve to receive a core conductor of the coaxial cable to insert therein. The central contact bore also has a stop wall that prevents the core conductor from extending beyond the central contact bore. An insulation block covers the central contact bore, and a window opening bolt is set in engagement with and thus closes the observation window opening to force a projection of the insulation block to depress the core conductor to engage the central contact bore for electrical contact therebetween.
US07946878B2 Insulation displacement connection apparatus, and method for connecting two components using the same
The invention relates to an insulation displacement connection and to a method for connecting two components, especially for high current applications, said connection comprising a first insulation displacement element, which is fixed to a first component, and a second insulation displacement element, which is fixed to a second component. The two insulation displacement elements can be inserted into each other in the direction of assembly, the first and/or second insulation displacement element being fixed to the first and/or second component in such a way that the insulation displacement element is moveably arranged in a plane transversal to the direction of assembly.
US07946873B2 Plug with a spark meltdown-proof structure
A plug with a spark meltdown-proof structure for a spark damaged-proof effect is mainly comprised of two center hinged inserters that can be pressed for angle rotation, each inserter has a conductor, one end of which is connected with the output electric wire and the other end is connected or disconnected with the inserting conductor which can be inserted into the socket; through the said structure, when the plug is released from or inserted into the socket, current can be disconnected first at the instant to prevent conductors sparks-meltdown problems in the plug insertion process from happening.
US07946872B2 Cable connector
A cable connector including a housing with an inserting hole adapted to receive a flat cable including terminals mounted on the housing that has contact parts to be electrically connected to lead wires of the flat cable. The connector includes an actuator having a main body moveable between a first position to enable insertion of the flat cable and a second position, parallel to the direction of insertion-and-extraction of the flat cable, to connect the lead wires of the flat cable to the contact parts. The actuator includes locked portions on opposite sides of the main body and the housing includes locking portions on opposite sides of the housing which are engaged with the locked portions when the actuator is in the second position. The locked portions include tip edges extending parallel to the direction of insertion-and-extraction of the flat cable when the actuator is in the second position and the locking portions include facing tip edges inclined to the direction of the insertion-and-extraction of the flat cable with the distance between facing tip edges of the locked portions being narrower at the inlet side of the inserting hole. The actuator is mounted to permit rearward shifting movement when the flat cable is not received within the inserting hole which displaces the relative alignment between locked portions and locking portions thereby permitting easier opening of the actuator for insertion of the cable while also providing a secure lock when connection is made with the flat cable.
US07946851B2 Alternating cage coupler
A full-rotational conductor assembly includes a pair of coaxial electrically conductive members having complementary tracks, relatively rotatable about a common axis. A plurality of electrically conductive coupler halves located between and engaging the tracks enable electrical connection between the tracks of the conductive members. A cage is connected to each of the coupler halves and substantially located between the complimentary tracks.
US07946825B2 Turbofan gas turbine engine fan blade and a turbofan gas turbine fan rotor arrangement
A fan blade is provided having a root portion and an aerofoil portion that has a leading edge, a trailing edge and a tip remote from the root portion. A concave pressure surface extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge and a convex suction surface extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge. A portion of the tip of the aerofoil portion between the leading edge and the trailing edge of the aerofoil portion is thinner than the remainder of the tip. The portion of the tip of the aerofoil portion is spaced from the leading edge and is spaced from the trailing edge. The portion of the tip of the aerofoil portion has a recess arranged on the concave pressure surface such that the portion of the tip of the aerofoil portion is thinner than the remainder of the tip.
US07946819B2 Wind turbine drive shaft connection arrangement
A connection arrangement for connecting drive shafts of a wind turbine including a rotor having a rotor shaft and a hub, and a gearbox having a gearbox input shaft is provided. The connection arrangement includes a first shaft connection means having a recessed portion arranged at the rotor shaft symmetrically to the axis of the rotor shaft, a second shaft connection means having a protruding portion arranged symmetrically to the axis of the gearbox input shaft, wherein the protruding portion of the second shaft connection means engages with the recessed portion of the first shaft connection means, and a fixing means for fixing the protruding portion of the first shaft connection means at the recessed portion of the second shaft connection means. A frictionally engaged connection is provided.
US07946815B2 Airfoil for a gas turbine engine
An airfoil is provided for a turbine of a gas turbine engine. The airfoil comprises: an outer structure comprising a first wall including a leading edge, a trailing edge, a pressure side, and a suction side; an inner structure comprising a second wall spaced from the first wall and at least one intermediate wall; and structure extending between the first and second walls so as to define first and second gaps between the first and second walls. The second wall and the at least one intermediate wall define at least one pressure side supply cavity and at least one suction side supply cavity. The second wall may include at least one first opening near the leading edge of the first wall. The first opening may extend from the at least one pressure side supply cavity to the first gap. The second wall may further comprise at least one second opening near the trailing edge of the outer structure. The second opening may extend from the at least one suction side supply cavity to the second gap. The first wall may comprise at least one first exit opening extending from the first gap through the pressure side of the first wall and at least one second exit opening extending from the second gap through the suction side of the second wall.
US07946812B2 Air blowing device for cooling the internal combustion engine of a vehicle tested on a roller bench
An air blowing device for cooling an internal combustion engine of a vehicle tested on a roller bench, including an air blowing fan configured to blow air towards the air intake opening provided on the vehicle to direct an air stream towards members cooling the engine, including a nozzle arranged between the outlet opening of the air blowing fan and the opening provided on the vehicle. The nozzle has a cross-section relative to the air stream gradually tapering between the outlet opening of the fan and the inlet opening of the vehicle. The nozzle includes two side walls each having an opening allowing a strap to pass, wherein one of the ends is configured to be attached to the vehicle and the other end is configured to be attached to a fixed vertical wall arranged proximate the outlet of the fan.
US07946811B2 Assembly of sectorized fixed stators for a turbomachine compressor
An assembly of sectorized fixed compressors for a turbomachine compressor is disclosed. The assembly is a single piece and includes two coaxial rings connected by radial airfoils. The outer ring includes two annular mounting lugs on a casing of the compressor. At least one of these annular lugs is connected to the outer ring in a zone axially separate from the zone for connecting the leading edges or trailing edges of the airfoils to the outer ring.
US07946810B2 Multistage pump assembly
A modular multistage pump assembly includes a volute having a suction side and a pressure side, a pump stack having at least one stage, and a modular flange coupled to each of the volute and the pump stack.
US07946803B2 Rotor blade for a wind power system
The invention pertains to a rotor blade for a wind power system as well as a wind power system. The present invention is based on the objective of disclosing a rotor blade with a rotor blade profile and a corresponding wind power system that make it possible to improve the efficiency in comparison with arrangements known thus far. In the proposed rotor blade for a wind power system, the position of maximum thickness of the rotor blade lies approximately between 15% and 40%, preferably between 23% and 28%, and the maximum profile thickness lies approximately between 20% and 45%, preferably between 32% and 36%.
US07946784B2 Grating system
A drainage system grate assembly for covering and allowing fluid passage into a watercourse includes: a crossbar having a plurality of spaced-apart upstanding knuckles defining a plurality of spaced-apart channels therebetween, each of the knuckles having a pin-receiving hole; a plurality of tread bars positioned in the channels between the knuckles of the crossbar, each tread bar having a pin-receiving hole axially aligned with the pin-receiving holes of the knuckles; and a pin positioned within pin-receiving holes in the knuckles and the tread bars, to secure the tread bars in the crossbar.
US07946777B2 Multi-refill writing instrument
A multi-refill writing instrument includes a barrel, writing bodies accommodated in the barrel so as to be movable back and forth, elastic bodies urging the writing bodes backward, operating bodies connected to rear ends of the corresponding writing bodies and window holes formed in a side wall of the barrel so as to extend in the axial direction. The operating bodies protrude from the barrel to an outside through the window holes in the radial direction, one of the operating bodies slides forward along the window hole so that a nib of the writing body connected to the one operating body protrudes from the barrel through a front hole, and a nib of another writing body in a protruding state is retracted into the barrel, and the writing bodies and the operating bodes are pulled out from the barrel and inserted into the barrel.
US07946774B2 Folding keyboard with numeric keypad
A folding keyboard is set forth with a numeric keypad, and one fold line located between the edge of a standard continuous space bar and the edge of the numeric keypad. Preferably, the keyboard further includes left and right top cases, supporting inexpensive rubber dome switches, left and right bottom cases, membrane sheets with circuit traces connecting keyboard electronics to contact points under each key, two hinge screws or rivets (or the like) that hold the left and right sides of the keyboard together at the hinges, and a locking mechanism to keep the case closed when folded shut.
US07946769B2 Bearing mechanism, spindle motor and data storage medium drive apparatus
A bearing mechanism includes a shaft, a bearing portion, and a cover closing a bottom end of the bearing portion. The bearing portion and the cover are preferably connected to one another by laser welding. A surface of a welded portion formed by the laser welding includes an inclined surface which is inclined such that the further from a central axis a portion thereof is, the axially higher the portion is. With this unique structure, contamination of lubricant used inside the bearing mechanism by fumes generated due to the laser welding is minimized, and therefore a reliable and durable bearing mechanism is provided.
US07946768B2 Bearing apparatuses, systems including same, and related methods
A bearing apparatus is disclosed. Such a bearing apparatus may comprise a rotor including at least one bearing element mounted to the rotor and a stator including at least one bearing element mounted to the stator. At least one compliant member may be positioned between at least one selected bearing element of the at least one bearing element mounted to the rotor and the at least one bearing element mounted to the stator. Mechanical systems including such a bearing apparatus are disclosed, such as, for example, a motor for use in subterranean drilling. A method of assembling a bearing apparatus is disclosed. More specifically, a rotor and a stator each including at least one bearing element may be provided and a compressive force may be applied to the rotor and the stator to compress the bearing surfaces of the rotor and the stator against one another. Rotors and stators are disclosed.
US07946763B2 Multi-layered thermal sensor for integrated circuits and other layered structures
A compact resistive thermal sensor is provided for an integrated circuit (IC), wherein different sensor components are placed on different layers of the IC. This allows the lateral area needed for the sensor resistance wire on any particular IC layer to be selectively reduced. In a useful embodiment, a plurality of first linear conductive members are positioned in a first IC layer, in spaced-apart parallel relationship with one another. A plurality of second linear conductive members are similarly positioned in a second IC layer in spaced-apart parallel relationship with one another, and in orthogonal relationship with the first linear members or in parallel with existing wiring channels of the second IC layer. Conductive elements respectively connect the first linear members into a first conductive path, and the second linear members into a second conductive path. A third conductive element extending between the first and second layers connects the first and second conductive paths into a single continuous conductive path, wherein the path has a resistance that varies with temperature. A device responsive to an electric current sent through the continuous path determines temperature of the path from the path resistance. Two or more of the thermal sensors could be connected in series, for use in measuring critical IC circuits.
US07946755B2 Watch movement
A watch movement, includes a frame (10, 11, 20, 22, 24), defined by a first and a second parallel plane surface and defining reference planes (A, B), the second plane (B) being located alongside the movement for placing adjacent to the wrist of the wearer, at least one balance wheel (30), pivoting in bearings fixed in the frame, at least one escape mechanism (26, 28) providing support for the balance wheel, an energy source (12), clockwork finishing movements (14), connecting the energy source to the escape mechanism and motion work (42).The balance wheel turns about an axis (YY), inclined in relation to the reference planes and intersecting the same, the point of intersection (PA) of the axis (Y) with the first plane (A) being closer to the center of the movement than the point of intersection (PB) of the axis (Y) with the second plane (B).
US07946754B2 Clockwork movement
A clockwork movement includes a control member actuatable by a control lever in response to a user's action and having the form of a column wheel. The control member is rotatably mounted on the clockwork movement frame around an axis X, perpendicular thereto, for controlling first and second mechanisms exhibiting at least one movement function such as chronograph or alarm function. The control member includes rotationally fixable first, second and third parts which are mounted on a shaft at first, second and third levels, respectively, in a direction of the axis X for interacting with the control lever and for controlling the mechanisms. The shaft which is pivotally mounted with respect to the frame is arranged in at least two bearings, which are positioned remotely to each other for ensuring the shaft good stability, whereas the second and third parts are located on the both parts of the frame.
US07946749B2 Lamp holder, backlight device using the same, and display using the same
A lamp holder includes a mounting portion, a lamp holding part which is connected to the mounting portion, and includes an end capable of surrounding a peripheral surface of a lamp, and is capable of being elastically opened and deformed during attaching and detaching of the lamp. The lamp holder also includes a recessed portion positioned at a surface of the lamp holding part that is opposite to the lamp and located at a position between an end portion and a connecting region of a mounting portion, such that the recessed portion allows the lamp holding part to bend so that the end portion is displaced in a direction away from the peripheral surface of the lamp.
US07946748B2 Mosquito repellent lamp
A mosquito repellent lamp, comprising a lamp holder, which is provided with a lamp shade with luminous tube; a power switch for turning on and off the power; a mosquito repellent device mounted above said lamp shade; featured by that: said mosquito repellent device is provided with a cavity for contain mosquito repellent patch, which is provided with air inlets and outlets, which are interconnected, and a fan corresponding to the air inlets, said fan and said luminous tube are powered through a switchboard, which is connected with a fan switch for turning and stopping said fan. Compared with existing technologies, this patent provides the air inlets and air outlets on the mosquito repellent device and achieves better mosquito repellant effect by dispelling the effect of the mosquito repellent patch insides said mosquito repellent device from the air outlets by the airflow generated by said fan. Besides mosquito repellent patches, aromatics or deodorizers may also be placed in the mosquito repellent device to achieve the purpose of air purification or perfuming.
US07946740B2 Light-emitting apparatus and pedal comprising the same
The invention provides a light-emitting apparatus, which can be disposed on a manpower vehicle, including a light-emitting unit and a power-generating module. The power-generating module further includes a first magnetic conductor, a second magnetic conductor, and a coil. The first magnetic conductor is disposed on a first component of the manpower vehicle; the second magnetic conductor is disposed on a second component of the manpower vehicle, and the coil is coupled to the first magnetic conductor or the second magnetic conductor. Moreover, the first magnetic conductor or the second magnetic conductor includes a magnetic member. Particularly, the first component can apply a pre-set point as an axle to rotate, so that when a distance between the first magnetic conductor and the second magnetic conductor is changed, the coil is capable of generating an induced electromotive force for supporting the light-emitting unit with needed power.
US07946731B1 Power LED channel letter lighting module
Light Emitting Diode (LED) modules that generally comprise a) a frame or housing, b) a circuit board that comprises a solid state circuit and is mounted on the frame or in the housing, c) one or more LEDs connected to the solid state circuit and d) at least one of the following: i) a heat sink that extends outboard (e.g., outside the outer boundaries of) the housing or frame; and/or ii) a power regulator which controls power dissipation over load and line variations and/or a pulse regulation circuit which to regulates current pulses in the LEDs in the unfiltered full wave unregulated 60 cycle Hz alternating current (AC). These LED modules may be connected to one another in series and my operate on AC current. In some embodiments, these LED modules are used for channel letter lighting and other illuminated signage applications.
US07946723B2 Backlight device
Disclosed is a backlight device for illuminating a transmissive color liquid crystal display panel from its backside with white light. The backlight device includes, as a light source, a plural number of principal light emitting diode units 21mn, and a plural number of subsidiary light emitting diode units 21mn, where m and n are natural numbers. Each principal light emitting diode unit is made up by a plural number of light emitting diodes (21) arrayed in a string and emits white light of preset chromaticity. Each subsidiary light emitting diode unit is made up by a plural number of light emitting diodes (21) arrayed in a string and emits white light of chromaticity in the vicinity of the preset chromaticity. The number of the subsidiary light emitting diode units is smaller than that of the principal light emitting diode units. When the principal light emitting diode units and the subsidiary light emitting diode units are arrayed in a two-dimensional matrix, the subsidiary light emitting diode units 21mn are arrayed without being juxtaposed on the same row, and the subsidiary light emitting diode units 21mn, arrayed in a center column of the two-dimensional matrix, are arrayed towards the center of a color liquid crystal display panel (110).
US07946716B2 Imaging system and optical engine
An imaging system and an optical engine comprising the imaging system are provided. The imaging system in this invention at least comprises a lens assembly, a light valve, and a Fresnel lens. The Fresnel lens is formed with a receiving portion adapted to correspondingly receive at least one portion of the lens assembly and replaces the conventional aspheric lens to focus a light ray onto the light valve. The light valve reflects the light ray into the lens assembly for imaging. Thereby, the Fresnel lens is adapted to decrease the surface area of the receiving portion to eliminate the influence of stray light on the imaging quality and to economize lens material costs.
US07946706B2 Lens assembly for vitreoretinal surgery
This invention is directed towards ophthalmic lenses used to assist during vitreoretinal surgery. More specifically, it is directed towards ophthalmic lenses that are constructed to generate a high-resolution image of the retinal surface during surgery while maintaining a minimal mechanical envelop all while using materials and assembly methods compatible with autoclave sterilization techniques.
US07946699B2 Ink jet recording method and ink jet recording device
The invention provides an ink jet recording method that records an image by ejecting, onto a recording medium, an ink that is cured by irradiation of an active energy ray, the method comprising: applying an undercoating liquid onto the recording medium; half-curing the undercoating liquid; and forming an image by ejecting an ink onto the half-cured undercoating liquid, and an ink jet recording device. According to the ink jet recording method in the invention, ink bleeding can be effectively suppressed when using any type of non-absorbing recording media, a high degree of uniformity in an image between various recording media can be obtained, and unevenness in line width or color caused by mixing between the liquid droplets can be suppressed.
US07946695B2 Liquid container, method for producing liquid container, and ink-jet recording apparatus using liquid container
A liquid container includes a container body that stores liquid, a liquid-supplying section connected to an end of the container body and having a supply port for supplying the liquid stored in the container body to a liquid-consuming apparatus, and a decompressed space for absorbing gas dissolved in the liquid stored in the container body. The decompressed space is formed in the liquid-supplying section.
US07946681B2 Nozzle plate, ink ejection head, and image forming apparatus
A nozzle plate includes: a plate substrate in which a nozzle is formed, ink being ejected through an ejection port of the nozzle in the plate substrate; and a p-type doped layer which forms a whole perimeter of an edge portion defining an inner perimeter of the ejection port of the nozzle in the plate substrate.
US07946680B2 Liquid discharging apparatus and method for manufacturing liquid discharging apparatus
There is provided a head including a chip 10 that has a semiconductor substrate 11, heating elements 12 disposed on the semiconductor substrate 11, coating layers 14 disposed on the semiconductor substrate 11 and having nozzles 14a arranged in regions above the respective heating elements 12, and individual channels 14b each communicating with the outside and the region above the corresponding heating element 12, wherein the semiconductor substrate 11 does not have a through hole communicating with each individual channel 14b; a ink feed member 21 having a common channel 21b, the ink feed member 21 being bonded to the chip 10 in such a manner that the common channel 21b communicates with the individual channels 14b; and a top 22 disposed on the chip 10 and the ink feed member 21 so as to seal the opening of the common channel 21b.
US07946679B2 Print cradle for retaining pagewidth print cartridge
A printer cradle is provided having a recess with an inclined face for receiving and removably locating a print cartridge, a retainer for removably retaining the print cartridge within the recess, and resilient members arranged to act against the print cartridge as it is located by the inclined face and to bias the print cartridge against the retainer once located within the recess. The print cartridge has a pagewidth printhead, a printing fluid supply and a fluid connection between the printhead and the printing fluid supply.
US07946666B2 Slide rail
A slide rail includes an inner slide, an intermediate slide, a rack and a positioning element. The intermediate slide is used for receiving the inner slide; a block is positioned at an end of the intermediate slide. The rack has a plurality of ball bearings. An end of the rack is resisted against the block. The positioning element includes a fixing portion mounted to the intermediate slide, and a resilient hook portion having an ear part, the ear part capable of resisting against the other end of the rack to locate the rack.
US07946665B2 Safety cabinet with multipanel folding door
A cabinet has a body having an open side and two doors each comprised by an outer panel and an inner panel. The panels are pivotal between a closed position in which they are all generally coplanar and cover the open side with the inner panels between the outer panels and an open position giving access to the open side. A respective actuating mechanism for each door has an actuating element defining first, second, and third pivot points and pivoted on the body at the respective first pivot point and a pusher pivoted on the respective second pivot point and having a pair of arms with outer ends connected to the respective doors. A rigid connector extends between the third pivot points at all times across a line extending between the first pivot points.
US07946663B2 Drawer lock mechanism
A drawer storage container having a plurality of lockable drawers includes a movable lock bar with a drawer catch associated with each of the lockable drawers. The lock bar is moved between an unlocked position and a locked position with an actuator that is coupled to a locking mechanism, such as for example, a key cylinder. Each drawer includes a striker mechanism that is configured to be held by the drawer catch when the lock bar is in the locked position. The actuator includes a release that allows the lock bar to be moved by the striker from the locked to the unlocked position when the striker impacts a camming surface on the catch.
US07946653B2 Vehicle seat back comprising a retractable headrest
Motor vehicle seat back comprising a structure, a headrest, a headrest, a support, a slide, a return element and a lock. The structure comprises at least one socket. The headrest comprises at least one stem mounted so as to slide in the socket between a high position and a low position. The stem has a curve. The support is mounted on the structure through an articulation element having at least a degree of freedom to rotate about an axis of orientation. The slide is connected to the stem and capable of sliding relative to the support in a direction of sliding. The return element is interposed between the slide and the support and biases the headrest towards its low position. The lock has an active state in which it is capable of holding the headrest in the high position and an inactive position in which it releases the headrest.
US07946629B2 Pipe coupling and method for installation
The coupling includes a mandrel and a coupling outer sleeve. In a method for installing the coupling on a pipe, the mandrel is inserted into the inner diameter of an end of pipe with an outboard end of the mandrel protruding from an end of the pipe. Then the outer sleeve is positioned over the pipe to form a length of substantially concentrically arranged, overlapping parts of the mandrel, the pipe and the sleeve. Then the sleeve is crimped over at least a portion of length, which engages the pipe between the sleeve and the mandrel. Either before or after sleeve is crimped over the pipe, the sleeve is connected to the outboard end of the mandrel.
US07946627B2 Female quick coupling fitting element for pipes
A female element (1) includes a hollow internal body (2) having an end (3) provided with fastening device (5) to one of the pipes to be joined, a hollow external body (7) coaxial with the internal body (2) and having an end (8) which axially protrudes with respect to another end (4) of the internal body (2) opposite to that provided with the fastening device (5), one rigid central stem (9) coaxially supported by the internal body (2) by a transversal perforated base (18) and having a widened end (10) near the protruding end (8) of the external body (7), an axially sliding sealing bush (12) coaxially arranged about the stem (9) and elastically stressed to be engaged with the widened end (10) of the stem (9) to prevent the passage of fluid within the female element (1), a cleaning bush (14) coaxially arranged about the sealing bush (12) and axially stressed in position so as to prevent the entrance of dirt about the sealing bush (12) and a lock sleeve (16) arranged about the protruding end (8) of the external body (7) and engageable with a complementary end of a male element to ensure the stable union of the two male and female elements of the fitting. The stem (9) is fixed to the base (18) by at least one half bush (25) radially fitted and axially locked in corresponding seats (26, 27) of the stem (9) and the base (18).
US07946626B2 Substrate having IR-absorbing dye with branched axial ligands
A substrate having an IR-absorbing dye disposed thereon. The IR-absorbing dye is a metal phthalocyanine dye having branched axial ligands. The branched axial ligands minimize interaction between π systems of adjacent dye molecules, and assist in reducing absorption of visible wavelengths.
US07946625B2 Binding structure for binding sheets
A binding structure for binding sheets to form a book or the like, includes a pair of hard covers, at least one of which has a slide groove, and a middle sheet member connected between the hard covers and extending slidably into the slide groove. The middle sheet member has a spine portion that is exposed between the hard covers when the hard covers are in a closing position and that is concealed at least partially within the slide groove when the hard covers are in an opening position.
US07946623B2 Roll over protection system
A roll over protection system for a passenger car, including at least one extended top unit (1) having substantially vertical beam(s) or tube(s) terminated or bridged by a connecting member (7) at their top ends. Initially in a crash, the upper part of the top unit only deforms by being bent backwards, thus creating a skid-plate against the ground and at the same time the survival room is impaired only negligibly.
US07946620B2 Passenger airbag
An airbag includes end panels sewn onto opposite ends of the airbag. The end panels include side tabs and a center tab. The side tabs hook onto a retainer. The center tab is sewn to the airbag adjacent the opening in the retainer to pull the airbag against the concave inner surface of the retainer, thereby eliminating bunching and folding of airbag material at the interface of the retainer and inflator.
US07946614B2 Occupant restraint device for a motor vehicle
An occupant restraint device for a motor vehicle includes a supporting structure of the motor vehicle. The supporting structure includes an outer side facing an exterior of the vehicle and an inner side facing an interior of the vehicle. A vehicle seat includes an outer side facing the inner side of the supporting structure. A receptacle for an airbag is arranged on the outer side of the motor vehicle seat. An openable region is included on the receptacle such that the airbag can be deployed into the interior of the vehicle. A pre-crash detection device identifies an imminent application of force on the outer side of the supporting structure. The pre-crash detection device triggers a shifting of the receptacle from an inoperative position into an operative position along a direction of movement between the outer side of the vehicle seat and the inner side of the supporting structure.
US07946613B2 Dual chamber airbag cushion
An airbag cushion has two chambers to permit the front chamber to inflate less rapidly than the back chamber for cushioning the head of an occupant in a vehicle with less force than the chest of an occupant is cushioned by the back chamber.
US07946610B2 Arrangement of an air bag module on a motorcycle, and motorcycle incorporating same
A motorcycle includes main frames extending from a head pipe to rear left and right sides, a fuel tank provided between the main frames, seat frames extending rearwardly from the main frames; a seat supported by the seat frames; and an air bag module disposed at a position proximate to a front upper portion of the seat. The air bag module may be disposed in a recess formed on a rear upper portion of the fuel tank, and is mounted on stay members extending respectively upwardly from the left and right main frames.
US07946608B2 Ski or snowboard with a plate-type force-transmitting element
The invention relates to a ski (2) or a snowboard in the form of a board-type gliding device (1), comprising a multi-layered gliding board body. A force-transmitting element (13) is supported on the top face (7) of the gliding board body, the top face of which is provided as a means of supporting a binding mechanism (3) for a connection to a sports shoe which can be released as and when necessary. The force-transmitting element (13) is of a plate-type design and extends across more than 50% of the length of the gliding board body. Within its longitudinal extension, the plate-type force-transmitting element (14) is supported in at least part-portions on the top face (7) of the gliding board body so as to transmit load and is connected to the gliding board body by means of a plurality of connecting zones (30) disposed in the longitudinal direction of the plate-type force-transmitting element (13).
US07946607B1 System for attaching a tree stand to an ATV
A system attaches a hunter's tree stand to an ATV in order to allow the ATV to easily tow the tree stand. A bracket is removably attached to the rear deck of the ATV, the bracket having a receiver/. A coupler is removably attached to the tree stand and is removably received within the receiver, the coupler being able to pivot both up and down and side to side. A pair of wheels are each attached to a respective one of the bottom of the legs of the tree stand.
US07946604B2 Roll formed step rail for a vehicle
A roll formed step rail for a vehicle comprises an elongated rail body including a continuous rail wall of substantially uniform thickness. The rail wall describes a continuous cross-sectional profile between two elongated free edges, the cross-sectional profile of the rail being substantially uniform along the length of the rail body. The cross-sectional profile of the rail body includes a relatively flat top portion disposed between a substantially semi-circular front curved portion and a substantially quarter-circular rear curved portion. A rear mounting lip extends forward from the rear curved portion to one of the elongated free edges. A front mounting lip extends upward and then rearwards from the front curved portion to another of the elongated free edges. The elongated free edges are generally in line with one another, but spaced apart to define a longitudinal channel therebetween having a predetermined width. The rail body is formed from a sheet of material by a process of roll forming.
US07946603B2 Air suspension system
An air suspension system for a multi-axle vehicle having air bags (4,5; 6,7; 8,9; 10,11; 44 to 49) supporting either side of the axles (2,3; 41 to 43), including separate air lines (18 to 25; 50 to 55) respectively connecting each air bag to a level control valve (16,17; 56,57) via manifolds (26,27; M) and air lines (28,29; 54,55) to independently control air supply to the bags on either side, the separate air lines being of the same size and length to ensure that substantially the same volume of air is supplied to each bag to improve the responsiveness and stability of the system.
US07946599B2 Cross-linked variable piston air suspension
An air suspension includes first and second air spring assemblies that each include a piston airbag and a primary airbag. A first fluid connection connects one of a first piston airbag and a first primary airbag of the first air spring assembly to one of a second piston airbag and a second primary airbag of the second air spring assembly. A second fluid connection connects the other of the first piston airbag and the first primary airbag to the other of the second piston airbag and the second primary airbag. Air flow through the first and second fluid connections is passively controlled solely in response to road load inputs to reduce roll stiffness and improve articulation.
US07946585B2 Mechanical ball projection game devices
Mechanical ball projection game devices, including game devices having mechanically-actuated ball loader assemblies, and game devices to release a tangible prize upon game balls reaching or entering a prize location to release a tangible prize upon game balls reaching or entering a prize location. Game devices disclosed herein include prize inserts that may be configured to receive one or more of paper currency, gift cards, financial transaction cards, greeting cards, toys, and candy. Mechanical ball projection game devices may include user-controllable features to redirect ball travel, features to guide and obstruct ball travel, and ball projector devices.
US07946584B2 Conveying arrangement for the takeover and transfer of printed products
A conveying arrangement for printed products includes a feed conveyor to successively transport the printed products in a transporting direction to a takeover region, a transporting device having a transfer region to receive the printed products, and a circulating intermediate conveyor to transport the printed products from the takeover region to the transfer region of the transporting device. The circulating intermediate conveyor includes an endless track having a plurality of conveying elements to respectively grip the printed products and transport the gripped printed products from the takeover region to the transfer region where the printed products are transferred to the transporting device. The conveying elements have a swiveling axis that extends transverse to the transporting direction, wherein at least in an area between the takeover region and the transfer region, the conveying elements execute a controlled swiveling movement around the swiveling axis.
US07946582B2 Double efficiency sheet buffer module and modular printing system with double efficiency sheet buffer module
Disclosed are a multi-sheet buffer module and a modular printing system incorporating the buffer module. The buffer module includes a primary sheet transport path that extends horizontally across a frame. Vertical buffer paths extend downward and upward from the primary sheet transport path. Each buffer path connects to a secondary sheet transport path, which provides a loop back connection to the primary sheet transport path. As a stream of sheets moves along the primary sheet transport path, sheets printed out of order will be selectively diverted into the sheet buffer paths. Then, at the proper moment, the sheet buffer paths will feed the buffered sheets into the secondary sheet transport path(s), which will transport them to the primary sheet transport path, such that they are inserted at the proper locations back into the stream of sheets.
US07946577B2 Switchback mechanism, switchback apparatus, and switchback method
A switchback mechanism for reversing a mail item conveying direction has a switchback roller which holds the mail item in a nip and rotates in both forward and backward directions. When there is a remaining mail item deviated from the nip of the switchback roller and remaining in the switchback unit, a pressure roller is pressed to an output roller always rotating in the direction of R1, the remaining mail item is held and fed out to the nip. At this time, a control unit takes out the remaining mail item at timing not to interfere with other mail items.
US07946572B2 Paper pick-up mechanism and feeder using the same
A paper pick-up mechanism for a feeder includes a pick-up roller, a pick-up roller shaft, a separation roller, a transmission shaft, a gear set and a transmission gear shaft. Two one-way clutches are respectively coupled to the transmission shaft and the transmission gear shaft in parallel. When the transmission shaft is rotated in a direction opposite to a sheet-feeding direction, the gear set, through the cooperation of the two one-way clutches are used as a planetary gear set to lift up the pick-up roller.
US07946562B2 Kit for assembling portable reconfigurable work stations and work supports
A kit of modular parts from which the user may assemble portable multi-configurable work stations, work support structures or structures that perform both functions alternately or concurrently; whose support does not derive from a continuous surface.
US07946561B2 Anti-vibration support system for engine
An anti-vibration support system for an engine, comprising an active anti-vibration supporting device including an elastic member adapted to receive a vibration of the engine; a liquid chamber, wherein at least a portion of a wall surface of said liquid chamber is defined by said elastic member; a movable member adapted to change a volume of said liquid chamber; and an actuator that uses an electromagnetic force to drive said movable member, wherein the vibration of the engine is prevented from being transmitted to a vehicle body frame by controlling a supply of electric current to said actuator, and wherein operation of said active anti-vibration supporting device is prohibited when an abnormality in an operational state of the engine is detected.
US07946548B2 Display device
A display device includes a supporting member, a mounting plate, a fastener, and a monitor. The supporting member includes a base wall defining two through holes therein, and a clamping portion extending from a bottom portion thereof. The clamping portion is capable of contacting with an upper surface of the worktable. The mounting plate has two through holes defined therein configured for contacting with a lower surface of the worktable. The fastener extends through the through holes of the supporting member and the through holes of the mounting plate to sandwich the worktable. The monitor is provided with a pillar extending downward from a bottom portion thereof. The pillar of the monitor is attached to the supporting member.
US07946545B2 Wall mount assembly
A wall mount assembly for mounting to a building is described. The wall mount assembly includes a base member having a front surface and a rear surface and having a wall extending about an outer periphery and inwardly from the rear surface. The base member also includes at least one edge recessed rearwardly from the front surface defining a recessed portion therein. The edge of the recessed portion also defines mounting apertures, mounting holes and/or mounting surfaces spaced about the recessed portion. An annular flange extends rearwardly from the recessed portion. An insert member and/or a cover member mount to either one of the mounting apertures, mounting holes and/or mounting surfaces for creating an aesthetic appearance.
US07946538B1 External point spring locking device
The invention provides an external spring-loaded locking device for use with railroad switches. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US07946536B2 Device for interconnecting first and second control sticks of an aircraft in roll and in pitch
The present invention relates to a device for interconnecting first and second control sticks (1, 2) for controlling an aircraft in roll and in pitch, the device comprising a pitch interlinking shaft (20) and roll interlinking means (10) respectively for interlinking the first and second control sticks (1, 2) during pitch movements and/or during roll movements. The device is remarkable in that the roll interlinking means (10) are arranged inside the pitch interlinking shaft (20).
US07946534B2 Pressure vessel having continuous sidewall
A spacecraft pressure vessel has a tub member. A sidewall member is coupled to the tub member so that a bottom section of the sidewall member extends from an attachment intersection with the tub member and away from the tub member. The bottom section of the sidewall member receives and transfers a load through the sidewall member.
US07946527B2 Aircraft with fixed, swinging and folding wings
An aircraft with wings that may be fixed for flight and which swing and fold for storage and for maneuvering and otherwise operating the aircraft while not in flight is disclosed. An embodiment includes wings which swing backwards and through the body of the aircraft and then fold by drooping elevons which span the trailing edges of the wings along the sides of the body. Another embodiment includes wings which swing forward and control surfaces which fold upwards at the sides of the aircraft. The invention provides for a narrow width for the aircraft when not in flight using a simple mechanism.
US07946523B2 Self-adjusting payoff core
An invention is provided which employs a self-adjusting core section having an outer diameter which essentially matches that, or is larger than that, of the inner diameter of a wire coil, where the self-adjusting core has a vertical slit along the its length to allow the diameter of the core to be adjustable. Bridging the vertical slit are straps secured to the core to determine the core's maximum diameter, and allow the core diameter to be reduced through flexing.
US07946514B2 Shredder with thickness detector
A shredder includes a thickness detector device having a contact portion in a throat of a housing. The contact portion is movable by a thickness between opposing major surfaces of at least one article being received by the throat. The thickness detector device includes a detectable portion movable by the contact portion, and a detector for detecting at least one position of the detectable portion that includes a position when the detectable portion has been moved by the contact portion by an amount that correlates to a predetermined maximum thickness. A controller is coupled to the thickness detector, is operable to prevent a motor from driving cutter elements in a shredding direction responsive to the detector detecting that the detectable portion has been moved by the amount that correlates to the predetermined maximum thickness, and is configured to vary the predetermined maximum thickness based on receiving an input parameter.
US07946511B2 Appliance for manual and localized spraying
A manual sprayer for receiving a liquid which includes a gripping knob mounted on one end of a reservoir and a spray assembly mounted in fluid communication on another end of the reservoir, a skirt for supporting the spray assembly against the ground, and a vent for venting the reservoir. The apparatus includes a valve that is actuated by a user gripping the knob and the valve being movable between a closed position preventing communication between the reservoir and the outside and an open position allowing such communication.
US07946510B2 Nozzle assembly for spray guns
A spray gun includes a nozzle connected to the open end of the spray gun and an air cap having a central passage through which the nozzle extends. The air cap includes symmetrical angular passages and multiple air passages. A back board is located at the back face of the air cap and includes an air outlet portion which includes a central hole and multiple air passages which are independent from the central hole. The nozzle extends through the central hole. Multiple resilient members are located on the back face of the air cap and push the back board to contact the air cap constantly. The air cap includes protrusion on the back face and the back board includes notches in its front face so that when rotating the air cap relative to the back board, the user is acknowledged the angle that the air cap is rotated.
US07946508B2 Method and apparatus for separating a solution
A method and apparatus for separating a solution containing a target substance. The solution is atomized into a mist in an atomizer (1) to produce a mixed fluid of mist and gas. In the collection of the mist from this mixed fluid, a gas transmission membrane (51) is used. The gas transmission membrane has a pore size that transmits gas but does not transmit the target substance contained in the mist. The mixed fluid is brought into contact with the primary surface of the gas transmission membrane (51), and the pressure on the primary surface is made higher than the pressure on the secondary surface of the opposite side. Thus, the gas in the mixed fluid is allowed to pass through the gas transmission membrane (51) to separate part or all of the gas contained in the mixed fluid.
US07946503B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device which may be used as an ID chip and data may be rewritten only one time. In addition, a semiconductor device may be used as an ID chip and data may be written except when manufacturing the chip. The invention has a modulating circuit, a demodulating circuit, a logic circuit, a memory circuit, and an antenna circuit over an insulating substrate. The modulating circuit and the demodulating circuit are electrically connected to an antenna circuit, the demodulating circuit is connected to the logic circuit, the memory circuit stores an output signal of the logic circuit, and the memory circuit is a fuse memory circuit using a fuse element.
US07946493B2 Wireless bar code transaction device
A cellular camera telephone includes: a photosensor for capturing an image of a target; at least one illumination source for projecting an aiming pattern to a bar code indicia in the target and illuminating the bar code indicia for image capture; a processor for decoding bar code indicia in the image; a button for activating image capture and decoding; a switchable lens assembly comprising a fixed lens and one or more secondary lens for superimposing over the fixed lens to change focal range of the cellular camera.
US07946477B1 Automated banking machine with noncontact reading of card data
An automated banking machine can receive user card data from a cell phone. The phone stores the card data of several selectable cards, including electronic account number data. The machine generates and displays a random number correlated with a time period. A machine user manually inputs the displayed random number into their phone. The phone's banking software application encrypts the selected card's data along with the inputted random number data. The phone displays a bar code image containing the encrypted data. The machine includes a bar code reader which can read the displayed image. The machine causes the read data to be decrypted. The random number is used to verify the current transaction session. Thereafter, normal transaction flow can follow, including PIN input. The process replaces physical insertion of a card yet allows secure input of the card's data. Fraudulent activities requiring card insertion are also reduced.
US07946476B1 Automated banking machine system and monitoring method
A cash dispensing automated banking machine actuated by user cards is in operative connection with a system usable to capture images related to activity that is conducted at or adjacent to the machine. The automated banking machine is positioned at a banking facility including a vault and an entrance. A plurality of cameras are positioned at the facility. Images captured may be analyzed at the bank facility or the remote monitoring center. The monitoring center may operate to assure that employees of the bank facility or others can safely access and/or leave the bank facility.
US07946472B2 Theft-resistant mailbox for parcels and method of construction thereof
A theft-resistant mailbox for parcels and method of construction thereof are presented. An inner door is pivotably affixed to a top inner surface of a housing and is rotatably moveable on a top edge around a sphere of rotation. An outer door is pivotably affixed to a front surface of the housing and is rotatably moveable on a bottom edge. At least one connecting member is rotatably attached on one end to a side edge of the inner door and on the other end to a common side edge of the outer door. An inner panel is fixedly attached to the bottom edge of the outer door and is rotatably moveable on a proximal edge in the same direction as the outer and inner door. The inner panel is comprised of a distal edge defining a sphere rotatably distinct from the sphere of rotation for the inner door.
US07946466B1 Alternative ignition source system for an exothermic reaction mold device
An alternative ignition source system for an exothermic reaction mold device for welding conductors. The system includes a crucible in a block with an open top so that the crucible receives an exothermic weld material. The conductors to be welded exothermically are placed in the weld cavity of the mold. A lid covers the open top wherein the lid has a opening therethrough. An electronic thermal igniter assembly has an ignition component receivable through the opening in the lid so that the exothermic weld material may be ignited either by the electronic thermal igniter assembly or may be ignited by a spark.
US07946453B2 Surgical band fluid media dispenser
A multiple use fluid dispenser dispenses a flowable material in a precise pattern and quantity with leaking and clogging between dispensing avoided by employing a trigger fired syringe plunger to expel a fixed volume through a band. Between strokes, an advancement knob rotates the band over a distal dispensing tip to a nondispensing location that wipes excess flowable material and seals a dispensing orifice in a fluid conduit. The advancement knob further may rotate the band to a dispensing position wherein a combination of one or more dispensing holes produce a desired pattern and rate of flow with material over the dispensing hole(s) serving to initiate the flowable material, to control placement, serve as a detachable bandage or buttress material, etc.
US07946452B2 Multiple chamber bottle with diagonal division(s) achieving curvilinear surface division(s)
A diagonally divided bottle is disclosed, wherein the bottle includes at least two bottle sections separately formed, each bottle section including a bottom wall and outer wall extending therefrom defining a chamber. At least one portion of the outer wall of each bottle section has a portion adapted to mate with the portion of another bottle section. The mated portions of the bottle sections form at least one common wall. The common wall is arranged at an angle disposed diagonally to a major axis of the bottle when viewed from the top or bottom such that products contained in the chambers of the bottle sections are simultaneously viewed when the diagonally divided bottle is observed from a front.
US07946448B1 Pill dispenser
A pill dispenser is provided for removing a pill from a blister pack having one or more foil sealed compartments in a plastic sheet, each containing a single pill. The pill dispenser includes a generally planar stage in generally horizontal orientation, a press assembly and a post. An opening is provided in the stage. The post extends upward, from the stage and the press assembly is rotatably coupled to the post. The press assembly includes a punch, configured such that the press assembly may be rotated to advance the punch through the opening. The blister pack may be loaded on the stage, with a compartment aligned with the opening and the foil adjacent to the stage. The press assembly may be operated to collapse the compartment, rupture the foil, and force the pill through the opening. A tray may be provided below the stage, for catching the pill.
US07946446B2 Gas storage tank and method of manufacturing the same
A gas storage tank for storing a gas, the tank has an opening formed on at least one of two ends; a filling unit that is housed in the tank; and a support member that is arranged between the tank and the filling unit and holds the filling unit in the tank to connect a whole gap formed between the tank and the filling unit with the opening.
US07946445B2 Multiple-use two-reservoir bucket
A two-reservoir bucket comprised of conjoint reservoirs with sidewalls intersecting to form a narrow channel between the two reservoirs and an integral or removable divider with passageway(s) positioned in the channel to divide the reservoirs.
US07946440B2 Two-piece expandable sealing plug
An elongated two-piece expandable sealing plug (20) that is adapted to sealingly close a marginal end portion of a hole or opening (22) provided in a body (21) broadly comprises: a cup-shaped member (23) having an annular open upper end, having an outer surface that is adapted to face toward a wall on the body surrounding the opening, and having an inner surface (38) that diverges radially outwardly in a direction toward the member upper end; and a head having an outer rim portion (25) mounted on the upper end marginal end portion of the member for rotation therewith, and having a central portion (26) arranged within, and secured to, the rim portion; wherein the member is adapted to be inserted (i.e., slidably and/or rotatively) into a marginal end portion of the body opening (FIG. 2); and wherein the central portion is adapted to be forcibly pushed toward the bottom of the cup-shaped member to (a) cause the central portion to physically separate from the rim portion, and (b) cause such separated central portion to movably engage the inner surface of the member to urge the member outer surface to move radially outwardly into engagement with the walls of the body about the opening (FIG. 4).
US07946437B2 Closure system for a vial, vial, method of closing and filling a vial and stand for a vial
A closure system for a pharmaceutical vial, comprising an elastomer closure part, a clamp part which holds the closure part in engagement with the mouth of the vial, and a cover part which engages with the clamp part. The interior of the closure part is profiled to minimize retention of residual liquid therein.
US07946434B1 Collapsible clothes rack
The present invention relates to a folding collapsible clothes rack. The rack includes two fixed side frames and two retractable side frames pivotally connected separately to the two fixed side frames. A pair of reinforcing links are pivoted together and coupled between the fixed side frames. In addition, a cross hanger tube is secured between the two retractable side frames and is able to be removably attached from one of them. The rack may also include a plurality of pockets positioned about the retractable side frames.
US07946431B1 Ultrafiltration process
An inorganic membrane suitable for ultrafiltration or nanofiltration, and methods for making and using the membrane. The membrane has a organic polymer deposited on the feed surface, but is not able to perform separations by solution-diffusion.
US07946423B2 Portable workstation
A portable workstation for beadcrafting operations is provided. The workstation includes a base including at least one receptacle for holding parts such as beads, preferably in a desired pattern. A cover interfittable with the base includes a seal portion that engages and surrounds the receptacle so as to maintain the parts in their desired position, despite movement of the workstation.
US07946420B2 Package containing a window and a performance characteristic indicator
A package including a container having a layer with an interior surface and an exterior surface. The layer forms an interior space. The container includes a window on only a portion of the exterior surface. The container contains within the interior space one or more absorbent articles each having substantially the same absorbent capacity. Each absorbent article is individually wrapped in a wrapper. The exterior surface of the container has a signal color corresponding to the absorbent capacity, and each of the wrappers has a substantially similar signal color in the form of a design. In addition, only a portion of the wrapper can be viewed through the window.
US07946419B1 Detachable and changeable message banding on nursery containers
A detachable and changeable message banding on nursery containers, comprising a container assembly having a first sidewall that extends from a base and terminates as a lip. A band assembly has a second sidewall extending between a first top edge and a first bottom edge. The band assembly further comprises an intermediate lip inwardly extending a predetermined distance from the second sidewall. The band assembly is secured onto the container assembly. A rim assembly has a second top edge and a second bottom edge. The second bottom edge defines a top channel lip. The rim assembly mounts upon the band assembly to frame changeable messaging thereon. A removable sidewall assembly has a third sidewall extending between a third top edge and a third bottom edge. The removable sidewall assembly mounts onto the container assembly. It also comprises a base assembly.
US07946417B2 Curable material mixing and delivery device
An apparatus and method for mixing two components and delivering the mixture to a patient. The apparatus contains a mixing chamber for mixing a liquid component and a powder component. The liquid component and powder component are mixed within the mixing chamber by rotation of a collapsible mixing element. A plunger is then advanced through the mixing chamber to force the mixture out of the mixing chamber and deliver the mixture to the patient.
US07946414B2 Conveyor system
A conveyor system has a pair of outer wheel tracks and a pair of inner wheel tracks, the wheel tracks of each pair being spaced from each other and extending parallel to each other. Each wheel track has at least one generally vertical portion and at least one generally horizontal portion. A conveyor member has two pairs of wheels, the wheels of each pair being located on opposite sides of the member, each pair of wheels engaging one pair of wheel tracks; the wheels and tracks are configured and oriented relative to each other so that the member is maintained in a selected orientation as the member moves relative to and along the tracks. The conveyor system includes a lift subsystem for preventing slippage of the conveyor member as the conveyor member travels around a curved portion of the conveyor system.
US07946409B2 Self service terminal
A self service terminal having a slot; at least one shutter for selectively opening and closing the slot and a gear drive for moving the shutter between open and closed positions, the gear drive having a first gear that interacts with a second gear, at least one of the first and second gears defining a stop that is engagable with the other of the first and second gears to stop or prevent non-gear driven movement of the shutter.
US07946405B2 Guide path for electronic components
A guide rail for electronic components, especially for use in robots for electronic components. The guide rail comprises a vertical or inclined guide duct that is provided with a curved, undulating guide track along at least one section thereof in order to decelerate components as the components slide within the guide track.
US07946404B2 Work vehicle controller
A device for a work vehicle eliminates uncomfortable operation feeling, improves the working efficiency, and reduces thermal load on a clutch and transmission shock. It is determined whether the current travel direction of the vehicle body is a forward travel direction F or a reverse travel direction R based clutch oil pressure of the forward clutch or reverse clutch. Braking force of a brake device is controlled such that the brake device is activated on the conditions that the travel direction position selected by the travel operation lever and the travel direction determined by a travel direction flag are opposite to each other, and the detected vehicle body speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value.
US07946402B2 Motor vehicle hydraulic pump
A motor vehicle hydraulic pump (1) is provided comprising a gerotor rotor set or planetary rotor set and at least two output stages. A first output stage (10) of the hydraulic plump (1) is connected to a lubricant, in particular, a clutch lubricant. A second output stage (11) of the hydraulic pump (1) is connected to at least one clutch (2) of the actuation thereof. The invention also provides a method for actuating at least one clutch which is arranged in the motor vehicle by means of a motor vehicle hydraulic pump, whereby an inter-connection of a volume flow outlet of the first step (10) and the second step (11) of the hydraulic pump (1) takes place according to requirements for actuating the clutch.
US07946400B2 Viscous clutch
A viscous clutch assembly (100) includes a rotor (104), a selectively rotatable member (102) surrounding the rotor and defining a working chamber (114) therebetween, a first opening (126A) defined through the rotor (104) between front and rear sides of the rotor (104) and in fluid communication with the working chamber (114) at both the front and rear sides of the rotor (104), a reservoir (112) supported by the rotor (104) and having a second opening (138), a valve assembly (106) supported by the rotor (106) having a cover plate (140) for selectively covering the second opening (138), and a channel (128,130) defined in the rotor (104) between the first opening (126A) and an area adjacent to the second opening (138). The channel (128,130) is in fluid communication with the first opening (126A).
US07946390B2 Tie-down compensation for an elevator system
An elevator system (20) includes a tie-down compensation arrangement (40). A tension member (42) extends between a cab (22) and counterweight (26) to provide a desired amount of tension on a load bearing rope or belt (30) that supports the cab and the counterweight. The tension member (42) in one example comprises a coated steel belt. At least one sheave (46) is supported on a base module (48) and remains stationary relative to a floor of a pit (52). A damper (50) is supported for movement with the counterweight (26) or the cab (22) to absorb energy that would otherwise tend to cause counterweight jump following a rapid descent and stop of the cab (22).
US07946389B2 Oil supply system for vehicle
An oil supply system for a vehicle includes: a mechanical oil pump driven by an engine; an electric oil pump driven by an electric motor; a hydraulic pressure control circuit supplied with oil from the mechanical oil pump and the electric oil pump through an oil discharge passage for the mechanical oil pump and an oil discharge passage for the electric oil pump, which are connected to each other; a lubrication/cooling oil passage that is supplied with the oil from the hydraulic pressure control circuit; and a communication passage that provides communication between the lubrication/cooling oil passage and the mechanical oil pump. With this oil supply system, it is possible to prevent the electric oil pump from causing air-sucking noise, for example, in the motor-power cruise mode, and to improve the rising characteristics of the hydraulic pressure produced by the mechanical oil pump during startup of the engine.
US07946388B2 Oil pan apparatus
An oil temperature sensor is externally mounted on a side plate of an oil pan cover that constitutes an external cover for an oil pan apparatus. The oil temperature sensor can output a signal in accordance with the oil temperature prevailing near a thermostat valve apparatus in a second chamber. If the second chamber oil temperature rises immediately after startup of an engine, a CPU judges that an open valve failure has occurred, that is, the thermostat valve apparatus is stuck open. If the oil temperature of the second chamber is not raised when an adequate amount of time has elapsed after the end of a warm-up operation, the CPU judges that a closed valve failure has occurred, that is, the thermostat valve apparatus is stuck closed.
US07946386B2 Isolation mechanism for electrically isolating controls of boomed apparatus
An isolation mechanism for electrically isolating a control input mechanism of an otherwise substantially conventional boomed apparatus (12), such as, for example, an aerial device, digger derrick, or crane, having a workstation (14) coupled with a movable boom (16), wherein the isolation mechanism allows a worker to control movement of the boom (16) and positioning of the work station (14) while protecting against electrical discharge along substantially any path which includes the control input mechanism. In a first embodiment, the isolation mechanism takes the form of an improved control input mechanism (10), portions of which are constructed of or covered with an electrically non-conducting material. In a second embodiment, the isolation mechanism takes the form of a boom extension (110) constructed of or covered with electrically non-conductive material. In a third embodiment, the improved control input mechanism (10) and the boom extension (110) are combined.
US07946381B2 Sound-absorbing device and its mounting method
The degree of freedom of a sound-absorbing device in terms of size is increased, maintaining easy mounting operation of the sound-absorbing device, even if the sound-absorbing device has a greater length.The sound-absorbing device 1, which alleviates and absorbs a sound generated by fuel movement in a fuel tank in such a state that the sound-absorbing device is put into the tank through an opening E formed in the tank and is mounted to the tank, has a three-dimensional structure, which has a narrower width X than a width of the opening and a greater length Y than the width of the opening E; and the sound-absorbing device comprising plural sound-absorbing parts 2A and 2B coupled together through a coupling portion 3 in an intermediate position in a longitudinal direction extending along the length Y.
US07946379B1 Filter assembly
The present invention discloses a filter assembly for filtering pop noise during a recording session, having a frame that forms the outer perimeter of the filter assembly, the frame comprising a first frame structure and a second frame structure. Further included is a filter diaphragm enclosed in between the first frame structure and the second frame structure of the frame, and a strap comprised of a second soft material that is coupled with the frame for detachably coupling the frame with a microphone.
US07946378B2 Membrane for an electroacoustic transducer
A membrane for an electroacoustic transducer is disclosed having a first area, a second area, which is arranged for translatory movement in relation to said first area, and a third area, which connects said first area and said second area, wherein local, planar spring constants along a closed line within said third area encompassing said second area, are determined in such a way that local, translatory spring constants along said line in a direction of said translatory movement are substantially constant or exclusively have substantially flat, mutual changes.
US07946374B2 Vehicle
A rear wheel drive mechanism acting as a drive force transmission mechanism provided in a vehicle is provided with a spline section provided on an outer periphery of one end of a first drive shaft acting as an output shaft, a spline hole provided on an inner periphery of a tubular engaging section of a universal joint and engaging with the spline section, and a circular clip disposed spanning the inner periphery and the outer periphery. An operating section of the clip faces a notched section provided on the tubular engaging section. The notched section is provided on a tip of the tubular engaging section and opens with respect to an axial dimension of the first drive shaft. The drive mechanism so configured simplifies the operation of mounting or removing a universal joint onto an output shaft of a vehicle.
US07946372B2 Dual tracked mobile robot for motion in rough terrain
The invention is an autonomous dual tracked mobile (10) robot system comprising two or more tracked driving units (12x) configured to travel in tandem and a separate mechanical linkage (16), which joins each of the mobile units to the unit immediately preceding and following it, and enables efficient power transmission between the two driving units. Each of the mechanical linkages comprises one connecting bar (14) and three revolute joints (18y) located on each of the adjacent units and a connecting beam that connects the connecting bar on one of the units with the connecting bar on the adjacent unit.
US07946371B1 Snowmobile suspension
A snowmobile suspension for allowing snowmobiles to more easily manage curves and moguls without the skis riding on their edges. The snowmobile suspension includes a base member being attached to a chassis of a snowmobile, and also includes a biased pivot assembly being supported by the base member and being attached to a body of the snowmobile to allow the body of the snowmobile to biasedly pivot relative to the chassis.
US07946367B2 Rotating radiator screen having air curtain seal
A rotating radiator screen has a series of fins surrounding the peripheral edge of the screen at its interface with a wall surface of the machine on which the screen is mounted. An annular baffle on the wall surface circumscribes the fins and cooperates with them in producing positive pressure and an axially outwardly moving curtain of air in the vicinity of the interface so as to oppose the ingress of ambient air and foreign materials at that location.
US07946361B2 Flow operated orienter and method of directional drilling using the flow operated orienter
A bottom hole assembly (BHA) for use in drilling a wellbore includes: a first mud motor having a stator and a rotor; a second mud motor having a stator and a rotor; a drill bit rotationally coupled to the second rotor and having a tool face and a longitudinal axis inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the first mud motor; and a clutch. The clutch is operable to: rotationally couple the second stator to the first stator in a first mode at a first orientation of the tool face, rotationally couple the first rotor to the second stator in a second mode, change the first orientation to a second orientation by a predetermined increment, orient the tool face at the second orientation in an orienting mode, and shift among the modes in response to a change in flow rate of a fluid injected through the clutch and/or a change in weight exerted on the drill bit.
US07946343B2 Versatile additives for well cementing applications
The present invention provides a versatile additive for improving the properties of a cement slurry made with portland cement and to be utilized in well cementing, said versatile additive comprising type of silicates and/or borates that inhibit gelation occurring with the interstitial phase. The additive of the present invention improves significantly the rheology (i.e., strong dispersing effect) and can even overcome severe gelation problems. At temperature above about 88° C. (190° F.) the additive acts as retarder aid, enabling to reduce considerably the concentration of retarder required to achieve a given thickening time.
US07946337B2 Heat exchanger with vibrator to remove accumulated solids
A ultrasonic transducer is associated with a heat exchanger and is operable to vibrate a tube associated with the heat exchanger to break up accumulated solids which may have formed on an outer periphery of the tube. A gas flow passes over the tube to remove the pulverized solids.
US07946336B2 Heat sink structure
A heat sink is used for dissipating thermal energy generated by an electronic component of an electronic device. The heat sink includes a contact base and a fin base. The contact base is attached on the electronic component to transfer thermal energy, and the fin base is pivotally connected to the contact base to transfer thermal energy with the contact base. The fin base has a plurality of fins, and rotates relative to the contact base. A center of gravity of the fin base deviates from a rotation axis. When the electronic device is moved, due to the deviated center of gravity, the fin base rotates to make the fins disturb the air inside the electronic device.
US07946328B2 Quick change tape application rollers within a carton or case sealing apparatus
A system for mounting the front or rear sealing tape application roller of a carton or case sealing apparatus wherein the front or rear tape application roller is able to be quickly and easily replaced upon its roller shaft without the need for special tools. A spring-biased detent pin which is spring-biased between a radially outwardly position at which the detent pin so as to be engaged with and block removal of the roller from its roller shaft but which may be depressed radially inwardly so as to be disengaged from the roller and thereby permit the roller to be removed from its roller shaft.
US07946318B2 Variable depth router and base
A variable depth router and base assembly can include a ring-type, depth-adjustment mechanism. The base assembly can be a two-piece base wherein one piece is disposed inside the other. One of the pieces can include an annular lip or recess that can cooperate with levers on the adjustment ring to secure the router to the base assembly. The two-piece base assembly can facilitate the manufacture of the base assembly, can allow the use of different materials for different portions of the base assembly, and can provide a more economical base assembly. The use of differing materials can facilitate the using of more wear-resistant materials where needed while avoiding the costs of such materials in locations where it is not needed. The two-piece base assembly may allow various features to be economically incorporated into one of the pieces, thereby facilitating the manufacturing and assembly of the base assembly.
US07946312B2 Flexible pipe
Apparatus and methods are disclosed relating to flexible pipe and composite tape. Flexible pipe body for a flexible pipe comprises an internal pressure sheath and at least one armour layer over the sheath comprising a wound tape of composite material. A method for manufacturing a composite tape is disclosed making use of a pultrusion process.
US07946311B2 Robust preconditioned air hose
A preconditioned air hose includes an abrasion-resistant external layer made of robust nylon, an insulating layer, and an inner layer. The robust external layer protects the air hose from wear and degradation due to abrasion. The external layer may be made of a fabric with an abrasion resistance of at least 22,000 cycles to failure as measured using the ASTM D 3884 standard. This external layer fabric may be composed of filaments having a linear density of about 1,000 denier. The external layer fabric may weigh about 10.8 ounces per square yard.
US07946307B2 Collapsible structures with water delivery
A structure has at least one foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering portions of the frame member to form at least one panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. A water tube is attached to the fabric material and connected to a water supply, and a water outlet is coupled to the water tube.
US07946303B2 Carrier for reducing entrance and/or exit marks left by a substrate-processing meniscus
A carrier for supporting a substrate during processing by a meniscus formed by upper and lower proximity heads is described. The carrier includes a frame having an opening sized for receiving a substrate and a plurality of support pins for supporting the substrate within the opening. The opening is slightly larger than the substrate such that a gap exists between the substrate and the opening. Means for reducing a size and frequency of entrance and/or exit marks on substrates is provided, the means aiding and encouraging liquid from the meniscus to evacuate the gap. A method for reducing the size and frequency of entrance and exit marks is also provided.
US07946302B2 Parts immersion apparatus and method
A parts immersion system and method includes a trough through which a conveyor belt carries the parts. A chemical solution is introduced into the trough through an opening in the bottom of the trough, from above the trough, and/or from the sides of the trough. The parts on the conveyor belt in the trough have a tendency to retard liquid movement out of the open ends of the trough thereby allowing the chemical solution to accumulate in the trough resulting in a greater immersion of the parts in the chemical solution. A gate may be provided near one or both ends of the trough to further enhance the accumulation of the chemical solution in the trough. Flights may extend upwardly from the conveyor belt to further enhance liquid retention in the trough between the flights. Flexible seals at the ends of the flights may contact sidewalls of the trough. One or more vibrators may be provided to enhance drainage of the chemical solution from the parts as the parts exit the trough.
US07946300B2 Rinse water heating device for dish washer
A rinse water heating device for a dish washer includes a water tank for storing a rinse water used for washing dishes, a rinse water tank divided from the water tank by a separation plate positioned at a lower portion of the water tank, partitions installed in the rinse water tank to form a rinse water guide path in a zigzag pattern, a heater installed along the rinse water guide path, and an inlet pipe installed to introduce water in the water tank into the rinse water tank. The water tank and the rinse water tank are divided from each other, so this device may subsequently heat a small amount of water in the rinse water tank within a short time. Therefore, the rinse water heating device allows an automatic dish washer to wash dishes with enhanced sterilizing, cleaning and drying abilities, thereby ensuring effective rinsing and washing.
US07946290B2 Underwater exhaust system and method
An underwater exhaust system and method which includes an exhaust valve having a sealing edge, an exhaust outlet for exiting an exhaust gas, and a projection for directing water flow away from the exhaust valve. The exhaust valve includes a valve head and a valve stem, the valve stem being coupled with the valve head. The system and method prevent a siphoning effect, whereby leakage of water into the exhaust valve is minimized or prevented.
US07946272B2 Method for determining the composition of a fuel blend
A method for determining composition of a fuel blend from a first and at least a second fuel for operating an internal combustion engine. An ignition angle of the internal combustion engine is altered and a non-intermittent fluctuation in torque, which is a function of ignition angle, and/or a non-intermittent rotational discontinuity, and/or a variable derived from the discontinuity is used as a parameter for determining the composition of the fuel blend.
US07946268B2 Two-part piston for an internal combustion engine
A two-piece piston for an internal combustion engine has an upper piece and a lower piece, the lower piece having an upper base part with an opening lying coaxial to the piston axis into which a pin on the upper piece is inserted. The upper piece is connected to the lower piece with a hexagonal nut screwed onto the pin. A resilient sleeve is arranged between the upper piece and the lower piece comprising an inwardly directed collar on the against which the upper face of the hexagonal nut lies and in the region facing away from the piston crown, a contact surface facing the piston crown lying on a surface on the inner side of the opening. An economically produced two-piece piston results with a resilient sleeve between both screwed piston pieces which exerts a pre-tensioning and thus provides security for the screw connection.
US07946266B2 Hydraulic circuit, particularly for camshaft adjusters, and corresponding control element
The invention relates to a valve and suitable hydraulic circuit, especially for camshaft adjusters of an internal combustion engine. The hydraulic circuit comprises a number of check valves or two-way valves operating as check valves, in order to provide a rapid camshaft adjuster with a high regulating quality.
US07946261B2 Electromagnetic actuator with two electromagnets comprising magnets having different forces and method of controlling an internal combustion engine valve using same
An electromagnetic actuator including an actuating member associated with an armature and able to move between two extreme positions under the action of an elastic member and two electromagnets that attract the armature to one of the extreme positions, where the electromagnets each include a coil, a core for channeling a flux of the coil so that it forms a return path in the armature, and permanent magnets associated with the core so that the latter channels a flux of the permanent magnets so that it forms a return path in the armature, where the permanent magnets of one of the electromagnets exert a force on the armature sufficient to retain the armature in the associated extreme position against the springs, and where the permanent magnets of the other electromagnet exerts a force on the armature insufficient to retain the armature in the associated extreme position against the springs.
US07946255B2 Anti-cribbing horse collar
An anti-cribbing collar for a horse. The collar includes an elongate rigid member defining a longitudinal axis. The collar includes at least one elongate flexible support member having a front edge and a rear edge and which defines a majority of the collar's circumferential length. The rigid member is positionable proximate a lower jaw depression and throat of the horse with its longitudinal axis extending in a generally front-to-back direction. The flexible support member extends laterally outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis proximate an intermediate longitudinal location on the rigid member and the first end of the rigid member projects forwardly of the front edge of the flexible support member and the second end of the rigid member projects rearwardly of the rear edge of the flexible support member. A portion of the rigid member is positioned below a tensile loop defined by the collar.
US07946250B2 Dual-purpose jar-aquarium
A dual-purpose cap for a jar-aquarium comprising a topwall having (a) at least one ingress aperture sized to accept free unbroken water-stream passage therethrough for cap-on filling of the jar-aquarium and (b) at least one egress aperture smaller than the ingress aperture and spaced therefrom to facilitate controlled cap-on out-pouring of water, whereby jar-aquarium water may be changed without removing the cap. A series of egress apertures may be grouped together along the edge of the topwall.
US07946243B1 Double acting lift mechanism for boat platform
A second stage lift assembly for a moveable boat stern platform is disclosed and provides the ability to raise the moveable platform up an additional higher amount as compared to it's in-line level with the boat's walk-on deck or fixed platform. By being raised higher when the boat is moving, the moveable platform avoids dragging problems often encountered where the moveable platform remains at the same height as the walk-on deck or fixed platform.
US07946238B2 Ensuring installation of drain plug when launching aquatic vessel
An auxiliary strap, connected to a tie-down strap for securing a boat to a trailer, is removably anchored to a drain opening in the boat, by being connected to a tethered drain plug, or by being connected to a spring clip that extends into the drain opening. The connection of the tie-down strap to the drain opening reminds the boater to reinstall the drain plug before launching the boat.
US07946237B2 Method for changing the direction of travel of a watercraft and apparatus therefor
An apparatus for retarding and/or changing the direction of travel of a sailing vessel is disclosed. The apparatus includes a watercraft (10) with moveable flaps (12A, 12B, 12C) internal ballast tanks, solenoid banks (20) and explosive activated nut and bolt clamps. The watercraft (10) is manually navigated or navigated by remote control. A method of utilizing the watercraft (10) to retard and/or change the direction of travel of the sailing vessel is also disclosed.
US07946232B2 Planter with depth adjustment mechanism
A planter row unit has a pair of ground-engaging gauge wheels located in close proximity to opposite sides of a furrow opener of the unit. The depth of penetration of the furrow opener depends upon the vertical position of the gauge wheels relative to the furrow opener. Wheel arms that connect the gauge wheels to the frame of the row unit are operably coupled with a depth adjustment lever through a rigid link that transmits adjusting movement of the depth adjustment lever to the gauge wheels to raise or lower the same. The link is made adjustable in length to provide fine depth adjustment of the unit for calibration purposes or otherwise.
US07946227B2 Detonator system
A detonator system which includes an array of a plurality of discrete time delay relays (16) connected in series to one another, and a plurality of detonators (28) which are respectively connected to the array at spaced intervals (22).
US07946226B1 Serigraphy reflection transfer and product and method for producing the same
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a screen print reflection transfer product and to reflection transfer systems produced by this method. According to said method, the reflecting color is provided with a multitude of reflecting particles, said reflecting particles protruding from the surface of the top color coat.
US07946216B2 Two-part piston for an internal combustion engine
The invention relates to a two-piece piston (1) for an internal combustion engine, comprising a piston upper piece (2) and a piston lower piece (2). A cylindrical molding (24) is arranged on the underside of the piston upper piece (2), facing away from the piston crown, lying coaxial to the piston axis (15), with two radial outward-facing hooked projections (27) on the end thereof facing away from the piston crown. The piston lower piece (6) has an opening (16) on the piston crown side, in which the cylindrical molding (24) with the projections (27) is introduced and rotated on assembly of the piston upper piece (2) on the piston lower piece (6), such that the projections (27) engage behind the edge of the opening (16).
US07946212B1 Dual elevation weapon station and method of use
A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) includes a sighting system, a control unit, a weapon cradle for receiving a weapon, and an operator interface for the GWS located remotely from the weapon cradle and the sighting system. The weapon cradle is co-located with the sighting system as a unit in the GWS. The GWS includes four independent axis drives: a first elevation drive for elevating the weapon cradle; a first azimuth drive for rotation the weapon cradle in azimuth; a second elevation drive elevating the sighting system independently of the elevation of the weapon cradle by the first elevation drive; and a second azimuth drive for rotating the sighting system independent of the weapon cradle in azimuth.
US07946209B2 Launcher for a projectile having a supercapacitor power supply
The present invention generally concerns systems and methods for supplying electric power using supercapacitors; and more particularly, representative and exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally relate to improved methods and systems for supplying power to a guided rocket.
US07946206B2 Quick-release system
A thin veneer stone saw and related methods are provided. The thin veneer stone saw includes one or more circular saw blades. A quick release mechanism is disclosed to facilitate changing of saw blades. The quick release mechanism is operative for interconnecting a driven member to a rotating member. In one implementation, the quick release mechanism includes a bearing surface fixedly interconnected to the rotating member, a shaft fixedly interconnected to the rotating member, and a cam plate. The cam plate is disposed a fixed distance away from the bearing surface. The quick release mechanism further includes an adjustable plate that may be disposed between the bearing surface and the cam plate. A distance from the adjustable plate to the cam plate can be adjustable. The quick release mechanism further includes a clamp base that is selectably fixable to the shaft and a cam arm pivotably interconnected to the clamp base.
US07946204B2 Lubrication system for a multi-spindle automatic screw machine
An automatic screw machine (20) has a body (22), and a head (21) that is rotatably mounted on the body and that is adapted to be selectively rotated relative to the body between any of a plurality of index positions. The body and head have closely-spaced and facing bearing surfaces (25, 28 and 26, 29), have spindles (23) journalled on the head for rotation relative thereto, and have a source of pressurized lubricant. The improvement broadly includes: at least one body passageway (32) communicating the source with the body bearing surface, the intersection of each body passageway with the body bearing surface defining a body port (33); a head passageway (36) communicating the head bearing surface with the spindle, the intersection of said head passageway with said head bearing surface defining at least one head port (42); and the body and head passageways being so configured and arranged such that lubricant may flow from the source to the spindle only when the head is in the vicinity of the index position such that the body and head ports overlap one another.
US07946203B2 Tool handle for holding multiple tools of different sizes during use
A circular, cylindrically shaped tool handle holds multiple sizes of tools. The handle includes one or more holding slots each positioned on the outer surface into which tools are inserted and held. Each holding slot includes one or more contoured compartments in which tools rest when engaged with the handle. Each contoured compartment is of a size and dimension which corresponds to one or more tool sizes. Each contoured compartment is formed about a corresponding receiving hole. A lock is positioned over the contoured compartment to irremovably confine the short leg of the hexagonal wrench within the contoured compartment. Hexagonal shaped tools other than wrenches are able to be used with the handle of the present invention such as screwdrivers and socket wrenches. A tool container stores the tools and the tool handle.
US07946195B2 Steering apparatus for vehicle
A steering apparatus for a vehicle capable of executing a steer-by-wire (SBW) mode of steering road wheels by a steering mechanism mechanically disconnected with a steering device. The steering apparatus includes a clutch which is composed of a shaft that rotates together with the steering device, an internal gear ring which has a rotation center coinciding with that of the shaft and transmits its rotation to the steering mechanism, an external gear ring partially intermeshed with the internal gear ring, lock members which transmit/disconnect the rotation of the shaft to the external gear, and a lock operating member for displacing the lock members to lock/unlock positions.
US07946194B2 Continuously variable compound lever human powered transmission
A human powered transmission for self propelled vehicles having oscillating power input levers displacing a pivoted power input member. The power input member pivotally journaled to a power output lever, the power output lever bearing on a fulcrum roller. The fulcrum rollers having a mechanism for adjusting the fulcrum roller along a predetermined length of the power output lever. Power output lever having a power output pivot, the power output pivot is connected to a flexible member for transferring tensile force to a unidirectional torque converter.
US07946187B2 Mass flowmeter
A mass flowmeter is provided which operates on the Coriolis principle, having (1) at least four measurement tubes which can oscillate and through which a medium can flow, (2) at least one oscillation generator for excitation of the oscillations of the measurement tube, and (3) at least one oscillation sensor for detection of the excited oscillations of the measurement tubes. The measurement tubes are preferably arranged closely in parallel such that the flow cross section covered by the measurement tubes covers as small an area as possible. The use of four or more compactly arranged measurement tubes advantageously allows for the measurement of a high mass flow rate with measurement tubes having a relatively small cross section and length, resulting in a mass flowmeter having compact length and width dimensions, and which requires only a relatively low energy oscillation generator for excitation of the oscillations of the measurement tubes.
US07946178B2 Vacuum measuring cell device having a heater
The invention relates to a vacuum measuring cell device comprising a vacuum membrane measuring cell (8) having a connecting means (5, 6) arranged thereon for a communicating connection to the medium to be measured, an electronic system (34), which is electrically connected to the vacuum membrane measuring cell (8), and also comprising a heating arrangement (20, 21) for heating the vacuum membrane measuring cell (8) to a predefinable temperature value, wherein the heating arrangement (20, 21) substantially encloses the entire vacuum membrane measuring cell (8) such that said cell forms a thermal container (20). Said container constitutes a thermal body (20a) in the area of the connecting means (5, 6) and connecting means (6) are guided through it, the connecting means thereby being thermally contacted at least in some areas by the thermal body. The thermal container (20a) comprises a heating source (21) for the heating thereof. The thermal container (20) is substantially entirely enclosed by an insulating shell (22).
US07946175B2 In-situ monitoring device and method to determine accumulated printed wiring board vibration stress fatigue
A monitoring system includes a calibrated micro-electro-mechanical structure (MEMS) matrix in communication with a controller. The MEMS matrix includes MEMS elements of various sizes which create a continuum of vibration-stress-resistant elements. The MEMS elements will flex in response to flexing of a printed circuit board due to mechanical vibration until failure occurs. The controller monitors the continuity of the MEMS matrix to determine which elements of the MEMS matrix have failed to accurately determine the accumulated vibration stress experienced by the printed circuit board.
US07946169B2 Fluid level detector
A fluid detector includes a piezoelectric element that outputs a first ultrasonic signal in response to an input electrical signal and a lens with an upper portion and a lower portion. A housing is integral with an outer surface of the wall of a container and defines a cylindrical central bore for receiving the lens. The piezoelectric element is coupled to the upper portion of the lens so that the lens focuses the first ultrasonic signal toward the wall so that it enters the wall. An ultrasonic detector is disposed adjacent the outer surface of the wall, for receiving a second ultrasonic signal from the wall that results from the first ultrasonic signal and that is affected by the presence or absence of fluid. The ultrasonic detector generates an output electrical signal corresponding to the second ultrasonic signal.
US07946165B2 Over-speed, rough loads and hard landing detection system
A system, apparatus and method provide a means for indicating an overload condition has occurred during aircraft operation. The occurrence of an overload condition is automatically determined and an indication output thereof. Based on the indication received by the cockpit, avionics, maintenance, etc., further action may be taken to correct the effects of the overload condition on the tires and/or landing gear.
US07946164B2 Measurement machine for the uniformity of vehicle tires
A measurement machine for uniformity serves for determining radial and lateral force fluctuations of vehicle tires (4), which are received by a drivable support spindle (2) supported on a machine frame (1). The vehicle tire (4) rotates on a rotatable revolving drum supported on the machine frame (1) via force measurement elements (8). The rotational axis of the support shaft (2) is disposed horizontally. The rotational axis of the revolving drum (5) is disposed horizontally in a vertical plane containing the rotational axis of the support shaft (2) beneath the support spindle (2). The revolving drum (5) is supported in a revolving drum carriage (9) vertically adjustable in the machine frame (1). The revolving drum (5) has a drum shaft (6), the two drum shaft bearings (7) of which are each supported via one of the force measurement elements (8) on the revolving drum carriage (9).
US07946162B2 Method for estimating the oxygen concentration in internal combustion engines
A method for estimating the oxygen concentration in an internal combustion engine that includes, but is not limited to an intake manifold, an exhaust manifold, an EGR system, a throttle valve, an air mass sensor for measuring a fresh air flow ({dot over (m)}thr) entering the intake manifold through the throttle valve, and cylinders. The method includes, but is not limited to the steps of estimating the total gas flow ({dot over (m)}o) entering the cylinders, calculating the EGR gas flow ({dot over (m)}egr), calculating the air fraction (f—air—em) of the gas flowing in the exhaust manifold, calculating the air mass (mim—air) entering the cylinders based on the air fraction (f—air—em) in the exhaust manifold, on the total gas flow ({dot over (m)}o) entering the cylinders, on the EGR gas flow ({dot over (m)}egr) and on the fresh air flow ({dot over (m)}thr), calculating the total mass (mim) in the intake manifold based on the fresh air flow ({dot over (m)}thr), on the EGR gas flow ({dot over (m)}egr) and on the total gas flow ({dot over (m)}o) entering the cylinders, calculating the air fraction (fair—im) in the intake manifold based on the air mass (mim—air) entering the cylinders and the total mass (mim) in the intake manifold, and calculating the oxygen mass concentration ([O2]m—im) in the intake manifold based on the air fraction (fair—im) in the intake manifold.
US07946155B2 Method for quantitatively determining unbound metal in formulations containing chelates
Methods are provided for quantitatively determining the amount of unbound metal present in a sample suspected of containing a metal-ligand chelate.
US07946150B2 Detection systems
An IMS system or the like has dopant contained in a way such that it is only released when needed. The dopant could be contained in a device (50) similar to an ink-jet printer and released as droplets (55) when required. Alternatively, the dopant could be trapped in material (156) of a molecular sieve (150) in such a way that it is not normally released into air flowing through the sieve but can be released by energising a heater (157) in the sieve.
US07946135B2 Extended-baking process for glass deposition tubes
Disclosed is a method of heat treating quartz glass deposition tubes at between 900° C. and 1200° C. for at least 115 hours. The resulting deposition tubes are useful in forming optical preforms that can yield optical fibers having reduced added loss.
US07946129B2 Reducing crown corrosion in a glassmelting furnace
Corrosion of the inner surface of the crown of a glassmelting furnace is reduced or avoided by directing at low velocity along that surface a gaseous stream comprising water vapor, or comprising the combustion products of an oxy-fuel burner operated at a stoichiometric ratio of at least 1.0, or the combustion products of a burner operated at a stoichiometric ratio less than 1.0, or by injecting into the furnace interior a gaseous reactant which reacts with alkali species in said space.
US07946115B2 Hydraulic cylinder for a brake system
A hydraulic cylinder for a brake system includes a cylindrical body and a piston. The cylindrical body has a receiving space longitudinally defined therein for movably and sealingly receiving the piston. The receiving space is divided into a first chamber and a second chamber diametrically smaller than the first chamber. The piston has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion sealingly and movably abut against the first chamber and the second chamber respectively. In a speed reduction stage the first portion interacts with the first chamber, and in an emergency brake stage the first portion and the second portion interact with the first chamber and the second chamber respectively for providing a greater braking force than in the speed reduction stage.
US07946114B2 Hydraulic control system
The invention relates to a hydraulic control system for providing at least one hydraulic consumer with a pressure medium. Said system comprises an LS pump system and a metering port for adjusting the pressure medium volume flow rate towards the consumer. The LS line is connected to a pressure medium sink via a current regulator. The invention is characterized in that the current regulator can be adjusted depending on the pump rate in order to modify the pressure drop at the metering port.
US07946105B2 Bi-directional locking ring assembly for aircraft thrust reverser manual drive unit
A bi-directional locking ring assembly is provided comprising a housing and a gear having a plurality of teeth. The gear is coupled to the housing to rotate in opposite directions about a rotational axis. A pin is also coupled to the housing and has an apex configured to travel along a line that does not pass through the rotational axis of the gear. The pin is configured to translate between (1) a disengaged position wherein the gear is free to rotate, and (2) an engaged position wherein the apex resides between two of the plurality of teeth to prevent rotation of the gear in both rotational directions. A pin actuator is coupled to the housing and configured to engage the pin to selectively lock the pin in the engaged position.
US07946100B2 Shrinking process for producing solid, transportable and printable containers and a device for carrying out a shrinking process of this type
The invention relates to a shrinking process for producing solid, transportable and printable containers by wrapping the articles to be packaged with a film in such a manner as to produce an overlapping section of the film ends on the base area, heating by heat exchange or convection in order to seal the free ends in the area of overlap, and finally heating in a shrinking oven, the container so produced being stabilized by the shrinking process. The method comprises first locally limiting the incoming hot air to the base area of the container to form a peripheral shell in the area of the bottle bottoms, the shape of the container being stabilized thereby, while the container is continuously transported during stabilization and the hot air directed onto the base area of the container in a bundle of discretely distributed gas jets is thereby discharged and guided back after a locally limited heat transfer with the film, and more hot gas is directed laterally against the continuously transported container at an increased lateral blow speed in order to complete the shrinking process. The invention further relates to a device for carrying out the shrinking process.
US07946097B2 Feeder
The feeder for the controlled transfer of product items into the pockets of a web of sheeting has a base unit, a supply container for holding the product items, and a product conveyor for receiving the product items from the supply container. Further, the feeder has an exchangeable format unit including a sorting plate for receiving the product items from the product conveyor, a filling unit with a number of vertically extending filling tubes for receiving the product items from the sorting plate and with a blocking slide unit with a blocking slide plate for temporarily blocking the guiding channels of the filling tubes. The format unit further has a filling shoe for receiving the product items from the filling unit and for guiding them to the pockets of the web of sheeting. A plurality of drives and the corresponding electrical control components for moving the format unit, the sorting plate, the blocking slide plate and the filling shoe are arranged in the base unit.
US07946094B2 Topside beam
The invention provides a topside beam. The topside beam comprises: an upper topside beam that is comprised of an upper web beam (10), an upper left wing beam (12) and upper right wing beam (11), wherein the section of the upper web beam (10) has a shape of an inverted “L”; the upper left wing beam (12) and the upper right wing beam (11) are oppositely connected to the two sides adjacent to the lower end of the upper web beam (10) respectively; the upper left wing beam (12) opposite to the upper web beam (10) inclines downwardly; and the upper right wing beam (11) is located at 90° with the upper web beam. And a lower topside beam that is comprised of a lower web beam (20) and a lower right wing beam (21), wherein the lower right wing beam (21) is connected to the right side adjacent to the upper end of the lower web beam (20); and the lower right wing beam (21) opposite to the lower web beam (20) inclines upwardly and is parallel to the upper left wing beam (12). And besides, the upper left wing beam (12) and the lower right wing beam (21) are tightly connected by a connecting member.
US07946092B2 Method of constructing a building, such building, and wall and floor elements for use therein
The invention relates to a method of constructing a building, comprising the step of providing a skeleton for a building wall of the building. The skeleton includes at least upright building elements such as columns or dividing walls. At least one lightweight, heat insulating and fire retarding wall element is placed between each adjacent pair of said columns. The columns are covered to provide substantially closed wall surfaces. The wall surfaces are covered with a covering layer having properties so as to provide fire-resistance to the complete wall. The covering layer on the inside wall surface may include a base layer of modified resin mortar, and a top layer of plaster mortar. The covering layer on the outside wall surface may include a base layer of modified resin mortar and a top layer of mineral mortar. Lightweight, heat insulating floor elements are placed and interconnected, and supported if necessary, and thereafter structural fill-material, such as concrete, is poured onto the floor elements to form a floor. The invention also includes a building, and wall and floor elements.
US07946091B1 Post construction wall mounting box
A post construction wall mounting box assembly (100) is formed from an enclosure (200) and a clenching bracket (300) which are joined together with joining screws (431, 432) where the enclosure includes a first set of parallel and opposed sidewalls (210) having exterior wall flanges (214) and the clenching bracket includes first and second slideable sidewall portions (310, 320) that have interior wall flanges (314, 324) and these exterior and interior wall flanges cooperate to engage an edge of a wall board when the joining screws are tightened.
US07946083B2 Wheelchair ramp for shower access
A frame for building a ramp provides wheelchair users ingress and egress to a shower area. A first embodiment includes a first flat inclined surface and an arcuate surface. In a second embodiment, the frame has first and second flat inclined surfaces having first and second inclinations, respectively, and an arcuate surface. A third embodiment adds a third flat inclined surface having a third inclination and includes the arcuate surface. A first set of screw mounts is formed adjacent a lowermost end of the frame, a second set of screw mounts is formed in the frame at a predetermined elevation above the first set of screw mounts and a set of stabilizing legs is formed in the arcuate surface at the predetermined elevation. The frame may be cut to lower its profile.
US07946078B1 Starter tray and planting and method using a tray
A plurality of plants of at least one species are planted in starter soil contained in a starter tray. The tray can have a perforated floor with a plurality of reinforcing ribs and one or more walls rising from the floor peripherally. The plants are nurtured in the starter tray long enough to develop entangled roots with an interplant root entanglement that at least partially consolidates the starter soil.
US07946074B2 Machine gun sighting system
A sighting system for a fire arm, e.g. machine gun includes front and rear sight assemblies. The rear sight assembly has a pivotal L-shaped member having two different sized apertures. Pivotal and windage lateral movements of the L-shaped member are achieved via a threaded shaft and a knob held in place via a detent screw/plunger assembly. The L-shaped member is secured in place via the detent plunger spring assembly. The front sight assembly is configured for windage lateral movement and has a sight post that is raised and lowered and secured in place via detent plunger spring assemblies. Another embodiment includes a rear sight assembly which may be configured for windage lateral movement. Detent plunger spring assemblies secure an aperture member of the rear sight assembly and the front sight assembly during operation of the fire arm, and the front sight assembly is configured for elevational and windage lateral movements.
US07946073B1 Reticle aiming device
In one embodiment, the reticle for a projectile weapon aiming system comprises a primary horizontal sight line, a primary vertical sight line which intersects the primary horizontal sight line to define a primary aiming point, a windage grid, a ballistics grid, and a range finder grid.
US07946072B2 Flip-up cover mechanism for a sight
A flip-up cover mechanism. An annular body includes two opposite through holes. A displacing member is disposed in the annular body and includes two opposite push portions and a first flange. The push portions respectively protrude from the annular body via the through holes. A cover is rotatably connected to the annular body and includes a second flange detachably engaged with the first flange. A torsion spring is connected between the annular body and the cover. When the second flange is engaged with the first flange, the cover is closed in relation to the annular body and the torsion spring is twisted to provide restoring resilience. When the push portions are respectively pushed through the through holes, the displacing member is elastically deformed to separate the first flange from the second flange and the cover is lifted from the annular body by the restoring resilience provided by the torsion spring.
US07946067B2 Picture frame with tilt display and support
A picture frame comprising a block of foam attached to a flat cardboard backing with a hole formed therein to allow the picture frame to be mounted on a wall; a first double sided adhesive tape on the low-tack side attachable to a back surface of the picture; a support structure for the picture frame comprising an extended portion of the flat cardboard backing, wherein a proximal end of the extended portion is connected to the cardboard backing along a hinge and the distal end of the extended portion extends to an edge of the cardboard backing opposite the hinge, the extended portion having a perforated line dividing it to a first part and a second part.
US07946050B2 Three-dimensional microprobe array
The present invention discloses a three-dimensional microprobe array assembly structure, wherein spacers are used in assembling edge-type microprobe arrays to form a three-dimensional structure, and the spacers reveal conductive pads of the edge-type microprobe arrays to benefit wire bonding. The present invention detects depths and angles and thus increases detection reliability. Besides, in the present invention, the related IC is integrated with the spacer to achieve circuit integration and reduce cost.
US07946047B2 Belt rib wear gauge
A belt rib wear gauge comprising a body, an elongate member having a length and extending from the body, the elongate member having an arcuate surface, the elongate member further comprising a tactile surface cooperatively disposed with respect to the arcuate surface, and the arcuate surface having a predetermined radial dimension wherein engagement of the elongate member within a belt groove and the position of the tactile surface relative to a datum plane at a tip of belt ribs disposed immediately adjacent to the belt groove indicates a state of wear of the belt ribs.
US07946046B1 Masonry line stretcher system
An elongated base component has primary and secondary ends with a first length and upper and lower and lateral side surfaces. A first cross piece with a second length is operatively located at the primary end of the base component and has an upper end extending upwardly and a lower end extending downwardly. A second cross piece having a third length is coupled to the base component and spaced from the secondary end has an upper end extending upwardly and a lower end extending downwardly. An intermediate means is coupled to the base component intermediate the first and second cross pieces.
US07946045B2 Level tool
A level tool has a body including a vial opening, a vial positioned at least partially within the vial opening, a passageway formed in the body such that the passageway intersects the vial opening and is axially aligned with the vial, and a plug positioned within the passageway to secure the vial, the plug being pre-formed at one end thereof to generally conform to a cross-sectional profile of a wall of the body.
US07946044B2 Surveying instrument and a method therefor
A surveying instrument includes a measuring system having a component, a support, and a mounting unit that is arranged at the support. The component is mounted on the mounting unit and the support and the mounting unit are configured such that the mounting unit is adjustable relative to the support. The instrument also includes a fine inclination sensor that is arranged at the component and is configured to measure an inclination angle of the component and to output fine inclination data. The instrument further includes a coarse inclination sensor that is arranged at the component, is configured to measure the inclination angle and to output coarse inclination data, and includes an electronic acceleration sensor. The instrument additionally includes an evaluation unit that is configured to select inclination data from the coarse inclination data and the fine inclination data and an output unit that is configured to output the inclination data.
US07946043B2 Archery bow plane alignment device and method
Methods and systems for tuning an archery bow are disclosed, including providing a bow having a string, providing a laser plane, rotating the laser plane to be inline with the string and aligning the bow to the laser plane.
US07946041B2 T-back hand saw
A hand saw including an ergonomically constructed saw blade holder with a pistol type grip, an elongated support having a blade channel for receiving and supporting a particular “T” blade, and various tooth configurations of a saw blade having a cooperating T-shaped blade shanks. Each blade shank includes an aperture at its rear end for receiving a locking pin positioned at the back end of the blade holder that drops into position to secure the blade within the channel of the grip. Additionally, a trigger-like mechanism on the pistol grip, when squeezed, rotates a rubber surfaced pad upward through an opening in the base of the support to contact the underside of the blade shank pushing it upward into the top of the channel to insure blade stability. The “T” design of the blade allows orienting the cutting surface of the blades in different directions so that a user does not have to twist their body or arm to saw.
US07946039B2 Hand-held ratchet tool for moving a pair of jaw members toward and away from each other
A ratchet tool has a first jaw member pivotally mounted on a first handle. An elongate linkage has a first end pivotally mounted on a second handle and a second end pivotally connected with a second jaw member on the first jaw member. The second jaw member includes a plurality of ratchet teeth. A pawl is pivotally mounted on the second end of the second handle along with the elongate linkage. The pawl has first and second sets of ratchet teeth alternatively engageable with the second jaw member teeth by a pivotally mounted spring and a rotatable actuator with cams that can be rotated into over center positions with respect to the spring and held there by the spring and a stop engaged by the actuator.
US07946030B2 Apparatus for assembling components on a target object utilizing a slider for movement of a pallet
An assembly-target-object-and-assembly-component carrier pallet carries thereon a target object (semi-finished product) 2 and a plurality of assembly components arranged, as viewed in plane, on a straight line which passes through a predetermined attachment position on the target object where the predetermined assembly component is to be attached. This allows a minimum of moving parts in the attaching device which attaches the assembly components to the assembly target object. Therefore, the structure of an assembling apparatus is simplified and mechanical errors and assembly time are reduced, thereby improving assembling accuracy.
US07946021B1 Double safety fastener
A double safety fastener prevents accidental disengagement. The double safety fastener is composed of a first and second threaded fastener. The two fasteners are joined with a pivotable protrusion extending from the first fastener into a recess of the second fastener. When both fasteners are engaged with a threaded rod, torque is transferred from the second fastener to the first fastener through the protrusion, recess interface. If the second fastener disengages the threaded rod, the second fastener will swing away from the threaded rod eliminating transfer of torque to the first fastener, thus eliminating the disengagement of the first fastener from the threaded rod. Conversely reengaging the disengaged second fastener to the threaded rod is accomplished by rotating (typically clockwise) and pressing the second fastener toward the first fastener thereby catching the beginning thread of threaded rod.
US07946017B2 Integrated hinge and temporary door checker
A temporary checking device is provided that works in conjunction with elements of a vehicle hinge that remain in the vehicle's final configuration. The hinge includes a hinge pin rotatably connecting a door hinge bracket to a pillar hinge bracket. The checking device includes a spring portion that is disposed between the door hinge bracket and the pillar hinge bracket. The spring portion is compressed during movement of the door hinge bracket relative to the pillar hinge bracket from either of two rest positions. The spring portion urges the vehicle door affixed thereto back into one of the rest positions, thus allowing manufacturing operations such as painting, etc., to be performed on the vehicle.
US07946016B2 Method and machine for removing a tyre fitted with a rigid inner run-flat ring
A method and machine for removing a tire, fitted with a rigid inner run-flat ring, from a relative rim, whereby, once the rim and the tire are fixed onto a turntable having a central hub and rotating about a first axis coaxial with the hub and the tire, a bead of the rigid inner ring is engaged and moved axially outwards of a relative flange of the rim by a hook carried by a lever hinged to the hub and oscillated, with respect to the hub and in a radial plane of the turntable, about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and rotating about the first axis.
US07946012B2 Apparatus for installing a waster disposer sink mount
An apparatus and method enhances installation of a waste disposer mounting assembly at a drain-received sink flange. The apparatus comprises a carriage guide, a carriage assembly, and a spring-actuable notch stop. The carriage guide comprises a hooked end, a handled end, and a notched face extending intermediate the hooked and handled ends. The carriage assembly is translatably and cooperably associated with the carriage guide and comprises a centralized rail guide aperture and a plurality of fastener-engaging arm assemblies. The guide aperture is sized and shaped to receive the guide rail and the notch stop engages the notched face for selectively prevent translation of the carriage assembly relative to the carriage guide. The arm assemblies of the carriage assembly carry a mounting assembly via fastener-port engagement to a mount position where a snap ring fastener may be manually installed to prevent downward displacement of the mounting assembly from the mount position.
US07946000B2 Apparatus for the fibre-sorting or fibre-selection of a fibre bundle comprising textile fibres, especially for combing
In an apparatus for the fiber-sorting or fiber-selection of a fiber bundle comprising textile fibers, especially for combing, which is supplied by means of supply device to a fiber-sorting device, especially a combing device for removal of the combed fiber material at least one take-off means with a sliver-forming element is present, downstream of which is a drafting system to enable productivity to be substantially increased and an improved combed sliver to be obtained, downstream of the supply device there is arranged at least one rotatably mounted roller rotating rapidly without interruption, which is provided with clamping devices for the fiber bundle, which clamping devices are distributed spaced apart in the region of the periphery of the roller and the combed sliver formed is arranged to be supplied directly to the drafting system.
US07945992B2 Mat fastening system
A system for securing a floor mat with respect to a carpet within a vehicle that may include a carpet grommet configured to secure to the carpet, a mat grommet configured to secure to the floor mat, and a locking ring secured to or within one of the carpet grommet or the mat grommet. The locking ring includes first ramped shelves configured to securely abut reciprocal ramped surfaces formed on the other of the carpet grommet or the mat grommet. The first ramped shelves are angled in a non-perpendicular and non-parallel manner with respect to a central longitudinal axis of the system, wherein the locking ring secures the carpet grommet to the mat grommet. The carpet grommet may also include an auger configured to pierce and secure into the carpet.
US07945991B2 Vacuum cleaner comprising an operating rocker
An actuating element mounted on an electrical appliance for pivotal movement about a pivoting axis in the switching direction of a switch, in order to switch a function of the electrical appliance by actuating the switch, and comprises a slide with an actuating surface that is guided along a slide path provided on the actuating element to adjust an operating parameter. An operating rocker/slide is provided enabling uniform forces introduced into the operating rocker during displacement of the slide. The actuating element includes the slide path and the pivoting axis extending substantially parallel to each other. The parallel orientation of the pivoting axis and the slide path enables the same length of lever arm to be obtained in relation to the pivoting axis of the actuating element, in each position of the slide, during the introduction of forces into the actuating surface of the slide.
US07945989B2 Wet extractor valve system
A wet extraction floor cleaning device having a base assembly adapted for movement on a surface being cleaned, an operating handle pivotally attached to the base assembly, a supply tank having a supply tank outlet, and a recovery tank having a recovery tank inlet and a recovery tank outlet. The base assembly has an inlet nozzle that extends from an inlet slit proximal the surface being cleaned to a nozzle outlet. The device further includes a fluid deposition assembly that can be selectively placed in fluid communication with the supply tank outlet, a vacuum source, and first and second external pockets. The supply and recovery tanks are adapted to be selectively placed in the first and second external pockets, thereby placing the supply tank outlet in fluid communication with the fluid deposition system, the recovery tank inlet in fluid communication with the nozzle outlet, and the recovery tank outlet in fluid communication with the vacuum source inlet.
US07945981B2 Automatic pool cleaner with flexible scrubbing panel
An automatic pool cleaner includes a housing having a bottom, an outer surface and an interior, at least two wheels connected to the housing and supporting the housing for rolling movement on a support surface with the bottom facing the support surface, a propulsion system in the interior configured to move the pool cleaner along the support surface, a suction inlet, and a scrubbing panel connected to the housing. The scrubbing panel includes at least one flexible panel and a resilient stiffener connected to the flexible panel that is configured to bias a planar portion of the flexible panel against the support surface when the wheels support the housing on the support surface.
US07945978B2 Duvet and duvet cover combination
A duvet and duvet cover combination where the duvet is arranged to be placed inside the duvet cover, where the duvet includes an integrated substantially rectangular extension part having a first long side attached to the duvet, and a second long side divided up in two parts that are separated by an aperture which extends essentially centered and over at least half the distance between the second long side and the first long side The duvet includes straps arranged in corners of the extension part and the duvet cover includes through holes arranged in corners of the extension part. The straps are arranged to be passed through the holes on the upper side and the under side of the extension part of the duvet cover whereafter they may to be tied together to keep the extension part of the duvet safely in place inside the extension part of the duvet cover, whereby the shoulders and arms of a user may be kept warm by the extension parts.
US07945967B2 Method and apparatus for mounting a vision system
A bridge assembly couples a vision system to a helmet or headgear to allow a user to alternatively align an eyepiece of the vision system in front of a left or right eye of a user. The bridge assembly includes a receiver for removably mounting the vision system. The receiver is coupled to a slide assembly providing side-to-side movement of the vision system relative to the helmet.
US07950066B1 Method and system for restricting use of a clipboard application
Techniques and mechanisms for controlling copying of content from a secured file or secured document are disclosed. In one embodiment, the techniques or mechanisms operate to control clipboard usage such that content from a secured document of one application is not able to be copied to another application or a different document of another application by way of a clipboard. According to another embodiment, alternate content is copied to another application or a different document of another application instead of the content from the secured document.
US07950056B1 Behavior based processing of a new version or variant of a previously characterized program
Behavior based processing of a new version or variant of a previously characterized program is disclosed. An indication is received that a process with respect to which a trust decision was made previously has undergone a change. The process is allowed to continue to engage, after the change, in a network behavior associated with the process prior to the change, without first prompting a user, subsequent to the change, to provide an input indicating whether the changed process is to be allowed to engage in the network behavior subsequent to the change.
US07950050B2 Authentication system, authentication-service-providing device, authentication-service-providing method, and computer-readable medium
An authentication system includes: a first information processor; a second information processor; an authentication-service-providing device; and an authentication device, wherein the authentication-service-providing device has: an unit that receives second authentication information for authenticating a user from the second information processor and executes a second authentication based on the second authentication information; and an unit that issues third authentication information to the second information processor when the second authentication is successful; and the authentication device has: an unit that receives first authentication information for authenticating the user from the first information processor and executes a first authentication based on the first authentication information; and an unit that receives, from the first information processor, third authentication information obtained by the second information processor and input to the first information processor and cooperates with the authentication-service-providing device to obtain a result of a third authentication based on the third authentication information.
US07950044B2 Centrally managed proxy-based security for legacy automation systems
A system that facilitates enhanced security with respect to an industrial automation environment comprises a legacy device that is existent within an industrial automation system and a central access authority that provides access rules to a proxy. The proxy receives an access request directed to the legacy device and determines whether the access request is permitted based at least in part upon characteristics of the access request and the access rules provided by the central access authority.
US07950041B2 Broadcasting for browsing the web
A broadcast system includes a transmitting unit configured for: receiving a web page as input; converting the web page into video image data; and providing a link to the video image data on a basis of a link provided to the web page; an encoder for compressing the video image data; and a receiving unit for receiving the compressed video data; decoding the compressed video data; and directly transmitting the decoded video data to a video display device, without requiring a browser application.
US07950040B2 Programming distribution system
A method is provided for distributing programming. A first set of programs is transmitted in real time according to a schedule of programming. A second set of programs is stored on a server, with at least one of the first set of programs having a counterpart in the second set of programs. A request from a user for program control over one of the programs in the first set of programs is detected. A determination whether the requested program has a counterpart program stored on the server is made. If so, the counterpart program form the server is played under the control of the user.
US07950033B2 Utilization of relational metadata in a television system
A method and mechanism for delivering and processing relational metadata in a television system. A client is configured to receive a broadcast signal and relational metadata which corresponds to received programming. The received relational metadata includes information which identifies two sets of data and a relationship between them. Upon identifying the data indicated by the relational metadata and determining the indicated relationship, the client is configured to perform a predetermined action which corresponds to the received relational metadata and the identified data sets. The receiver includes, or is coupled to, a mass storage device configured to store received relational metadata and programming. Among the actions which may be automatically performed include replacing the first identified data with the second data on the storage device, deleting the first or second data from the storage device, requesting the second data from a remote location, or copying a previously captured portion of a broadcast signal from a temporary buffer to a mass storage device. Further, utilizing the relational metadata, personalized viewing content and experiences may be created by a viewer.
US07950032B1 Ratings control system with temporary override capability
A system and related apparatus for comprising a video processing system having a ratings control system which blocks or permits viewing of programs which are broadcast with ratings or spending information according to a profile set by a supervisor who has entered a password accepted by the control system, in which supervisor can temporarily modify the profile. After completion of the time period(s) or supervisor-designated television broadcast(s) or programs, the system automatically returns to the normal profile.
US07950029B2 Method for interactive television using foveal properties of the eyes of individual and grouped users and for protecting video information against the unauthorized access, dissemination and use thereof
A method of interactive television providing for generating, transforming or displaying video information taking into account individual peculiarities of the user's eye and individual peculiarities of a group of viewer's eyes. The method provides simultaneously all or, at least, two operations from the above operations of formation, conversion and transmission of video signal and display of video information perceptible on the screen of information display facilities for one and/or a group of users or an unrestricted group of users. This is accomplished by one or a combination of various video editing and transmission adjustment techniques.
US07950023B2 Utilizing abstract descriptions to generate, exchange, and configure service and client runtimes
The present invention extends utilizing abstract descriptions to generate, exchange, and configure service and client runtimes. A computer system parses compiled code and potentially optional configuration information for implementing a service and converts the compiled code and any configuration information into an abstract service description. The abstract service description can then be converted into code document object model and service configuration information or exported as metadata. A corresponding service runtime can be initiated by calling a service initializer included in the abstract service description. The code document object model and configuration information and/or metadata can be transferred to another computer system. The other computer system can utilize the code document object model and configuration information and/or import the metadata to facilitate initialization of a compatible channel for communicating with the service runtime.
US07950016B2 Apparatus for switching the task to be completed in a processor by switching to the task assigned time slot
A method of assigning task management blocks for first type tasks to time slot information on a one-by-one basis, assigning a plurality of task management blocks for second type tasks to time slot information, selecting a task management block according to a priority classification when switching to the time slot of the time slot information, and switching to the time slot except the time slot information. Additionally a task switching apparatus selects the task management block assigned to the time slot and executes the task.
US07950011B2 Leveraging advanced queues to implement event based job scheduling
A job scheduling technique that allows jobs to be launched as a result of messages which are not targeted specifically at the job, and for jobs to be interrelated in complex ways.
US07950010B2 Software deployment system
The present invention provides a system and method for deploying software onto multiple heterogeneous systems at the same time. A generic software deployment manager may deploy software by communicating with client software deployment services residing on the systems that are receiving the software deployment. The software deployment manager can operate independent of the software and the operating system on which software is being deployed by communicating with the client software deployment service. To execute a software deployment, the software deployment manager may send software deployment messages containing generic commands that signify operations to be performed to deploy software. The client software deployment service provides an interface between the software deployment manager and the recipient system by translating these generic commands to commands that are compatible with the local operating system. The software deployment manager may transmit software deployment messages simultaneously to each of the systems within a system group or an environment so that software can be efficiently deployed without incompatibilities in the network. The software deployment manager may deploy software in Linux, Windows, Unix, Macatosh, Java, or any other operating system and may deploy any software.
US07950009B2 Terminal and method of displaying content thereof
A method of displaying contents on a mobile terminal. The method includes displaying a plurality of contents on a display of the mobile terminal, selecting a content from the plurality of displayed contents, and displaying the selected content and similar contents having a similar type as the selected content to be discriminated from other displayed contents that do not have the similar type as the selected content.
US07950003B1 Heads-up-display software development tool for analyzing and optimizing computer software
A method and apparatus for software development and a method and system for analysis of graphics software are disclosed.
US07950002B2 Testing a software product by initiating a breakpoint and executing a probe routine
A method for testing a software product comprises initiating a breakpoint in the software product, and executing a probe routine. The executing of the probe routine comprises creating a single step state stack, and repetitively; identifying data to be protected, disabling interrupts, writing the data to the single step state stack, enabling interrupts, restoring a state according to the single step state stack, and single-stepping a probe instruction, until the instructions in the probe are completed.
US07950001B2 Method and apparatus for instrumentation in a multiprocessing environment
A method of instrumentation, preferably a computer implemented method for instrumentation, in a program which contains an original program. The original instruction is copied into a user address space which has an unused stack space. When a breakpoint is encountered the original instruction is executed out-of-line in the unused stack space by single stepping. Using this debugging in a multithreaded environment is advantageous as all threads will switch into the unused stack space and execute the breakpoint.
US07950000B2 Architecture that restricts permissions granted to a build process
Architecture that facilitates management of a build process according to a level of trust of a build entity. The build process processes one or more build entities, each of which is associated with a level of trust. These associations are stored in a policy file that is run against the one or more entities at the start of the build process. The build process runs at a permission level that is representative of the lowest level of trust of the build entities. The levels of trust include at least trusted, semi-trusted, and untrusted levels. If the lowest level is untrusted, the build process fails, and the user is notified.
US07949997B2 Integration of software into an existing information technology (IT) infrastructure
A method and apparatus for integrating a software application into an information technology (IT) infrastructure. An inventory is created using a Model-Driven Architecture (MDA) approach from the Object Management Group (OMG). The inventory includes information about: each component of the IT infrastructure, the software application, how each component communicates with each other component, and how the software application communicates with each component. Each element of information in the inventory has a single source and owner. The inventory is used to analyze the IT infrastructure and the software application during integrating the software application. From contents of the inventory, using the MDA approach from the OMG, artifacts that execute the integration are generated, and test programs are generated to verify that the integration is complete and correct. The inventory is progressively updated during and after the integration as more information about the IT infrastructure or the software application is developed.
US07949995B2 Visual programming method
The invention is a computer programming method that includes inputting a drawing shape or drawing figure into a computer via a user interface of the computer. In response to a prompt that is generated related to the input drawing shape or drawing figure, data is input into the computer via the user interface. Computer program code is then synthesized that is related to the input drawing shape or drawing figure and the input data. The foregoing steps can be repeated for at least one other drawing shape or drawing figure that has an entry point connected to a previously entered drawing shape or drawing figure.
US07949992B2 Development of information technology system
A method performed in an Information Technology (IT) development environment and an associated computer system. Business requirements are translated into functional requirements. An abstract IT structure is generated by translating the functional requirements into the abstract IT structure.
US07949991B1 Systems and methods for specifying states within imperative code
Systems and methods which implement declarative language for specifying states within imperative code are shown. According to embodiments an application program developer declaratively identifies one or more states within the imperative code of the application program. Declarative language identifying a particular state of an application program may both operate to identify the state and to describe the state so that the state may be selected or “jumped to” without a user having to navigate the application program flow to arrive at the state. Particular states may be described using a difference or “delta” between the particular state and another state, such as a base state. Transitions may be implemented between states, such as to provide animation, fading, color change, et cetera.
US07949989B2 Methods, systems and computer program products for layout device matching driven by a schematic editor
Systems and computer program products for layout device matching driven by a schematic editor. Exemplary embodiments include identifying a master device in a circuit layout having at least transistors, the master device having property values including at least one of topology, name and device-type, identifying a cloned device linked to the master device, automatically propagating the property values to the cloned device, making changes to a design layout of the master device, including a change to the properties, and automatically propagating the changes to the design layout and the change to the properties of the master device to the cloned device.
US07949987B1 Method and system for implementing abstract layout structures with parameterized cells
An improved method and system are disclosed for utilizing abstracted versions of layout portions in conjunction with parameterized cells (pcells). One significant advantage is that abstracted versions of pcells can be generated from normal pcells and stored in a pcell cache, which avoids the need to abstract layout pcells on the fly.
US07949985B2 Method for compensation of process-induced performance variation in a MOSFET integrated circuit
An automated method for compensating for process-induced variations in threshold voltage and drive current in a MOSFET integrated circuit. The method's first step is selecting a transistor for analysis from the array. The method loops among the transistors of the array as desired. Next the design of the selected transistor is analyzed, including the steps of determining threshold voltage variations induced by layout neighborhood; determining drive current variations induced by layout neighborhood. The method then proceeds by attempting to compensate for any determined variations by varying the length of the transistor gate. The method can further include the step of identifying any shortcoming in compensation by varying contact spacing.
US07949984B2 Method and apparatus for designing a three-dimensional integrated circuit
A method of designing a three-dimensional integrated circuit includes dividing two-dimensional layout data of a circuit formed on a semiconductor substrate into a plurality of layout block data in order to re-arrange in different layers, generating layout block data reversing one of the layout block data of two folded layers arranged vertically adjacent to each other, alternately arranging the reversed layout block data and non-reverse block layout data to form a plurality of layers vertically overlapped, selecting at least one from interconnects included in a plurality of layout block data of the circuit and ranging over plural layers so as to be mutually and functionally collected together with respect to at least one of time delay, interconnect length and block configuration, and re-arranging the selected interconnect using a via connecting an upper layer and an under layer of the folded interconnect.
US07949980B1 Circuit design tools that support devices with real-time phase-locked loop reconfiguration capabilities
Computer-aided-design tools are provided that support real-time phase-locked loop reconfiguration with a single design compilation. Each design compilation may involve operations such as logic synthesis and place and route operations. A circuit designer who is designing an integrated circuit may supply circuit design data. The circuit design data may include design data for multiple configurations of a phase-locked loop. By using a phase-locked loop scan chain initialization file generator engine located in a CAD tool design input wizard, the computer-aided-design tools may produce multiple phase-locked loop initialization files without performing a design compilation. The CAD tools may process one or more initialization files and the circuit design data to produce output data. The output data may include configuration data to implement the circuit design. The output data may also include warning messages that indicate when phase-locked loop settings in an initialization file do not match settings in the circuit design.
US07949978B2 Structure for system architectures for and methods of scheduling on-chip and across-chip noise events in an integrated circuit
A design structure integrated circuit (IC) system architectures that allow for the reduction of on-chip or across-chip transient noise budgets by providing a means to avoid simultaneous high current demand events from at least two functional logic blocks, i.e., noise contributors, are disclosed. Embodiments of the IC system architectures include at least one noise event arbiter and at least two noise contributor blocks. A method of scheduling on-chip noise events to avoid simultaneous active transient noise events may include, but is not limited to: the noise event arbiter receiving simultaneously multiple requests-to-operate from multiple noise contributors; the noise event arbiter determining when each noise contributor may execute operations based on a pre-established dI/dt budget; and the noise event arbiter notifying each noise contributor as to when permission is granted to execute its operations.
US07949975B2 Apparatus and method of extracting equivalent circuit of T-type transmission circuit
A method of extracting an equivalent circuit of a T-type transmission circuit measures signals of the first and second terminals to obtain S parameters, converts the S parameters into Z parameters to generate a T-type circuit by using the Z parameters, obtains first to third lead line resistors and first to third lead line inductors in the T-type circuit based on the Z parameters corresponding to constants of the T-type circuit, subtracts the Z parameters corresponding to the T-type circuit from the Z parameters corresponding to all of the equivalent circuit to calculate the Z parameters of a π-type circuit, converts the Z parameters of the π-type circuit into the Y parameters, and calculates first to third coupling capacitances based on the Y parameters.
US07949974B1 Isolation verification within integrated circuits
A computer-implemented method of verifying isolation between a plurality of modules of a circuit design to be implemented within an integrated circuit can include identifying a first module and at least a second module of the circuit design for the integrated circuit. One or more circuit attributes indicative of isolation between the first module and the second module can be identified and compared with at least one isolation criterion. An indication of whether the first module is isolated from the second module can be output according to results of the comparison.
US07949973B1 Methods of implementing multi-cycle paths in electronic circuits
Methods of implementing circuits while automatically taking multi-cycle paths into account. A processor-implemented method can include inputting a behavioral description of the circuit, a simulation test bench for the circuit, and a library that includes at least one synchronous element. The synchronous element includes code that, when simulated, outputs tracking information including a minimum number of clock cycles between state changes for terminals of the synchronous element. The behavioral description is synthesized to generate a netlist description of the circuit. The netlist description includes at least one instance of the synchronous element. The netlist description is simulated using the simulation test bench and the library. The simulation outputs a description of all multi-cycle paths in the netlist description based on the tracking information output by all instances of the synchronous element in the netlist description. This description can provide constraints for use when placing and routing the design.
US07949961B2 User interface for performing load analysis
A user interface for performing load analysis on various geometries is provided. The user interface is especially useful for performing load analysis operations on mobile platforms, for example an aircraft. The user interface includes an object display that lists a plurality of load objects that include object data. A plurality of menu displays list a plurality of load operations. A data display displays the object data associated with the plurality of load objects.
US07949959B2 Target estimation device and target estimation method
A target estimation device that appropriately estimates a function targeted by a user from among functions of an operated apparatus includes: an item inputting unit (102) that obtains an item; a function representation storing unit (107) that stores function names of the operated apparatus; an identical word detecting unit (116) that detects a category of a word identical between each of the function names and the item; an operation intention calculating unit (117) that changes a method for calculating similarities between the item and the respective function names, for each of the function names, depending on the detected category, and that calculates the similarities as degrees of intentions of the user who has selected the item, using the changed calculation method; and a target estimation unit (112) that estimates a function so that the function having a higher degree of an intention is the function targeted by the user.
US07949955B2 Virtual magnifying glass system architecture
A display screen magnifier is controllable by a user to magnify selected portions of a desktop including windows open on the screen. A magnified image is presented within a moveable magnifier frame. The magnified image corresponds to screen content located within a magnification region underlying the magnifier frame, magnified to a set level of magnification. The magnifier is configured to remain on top of the display screen desktop, including open windows, while it is activated. It also passes events of a user input device to windows located beneath the magnifier, and dynamically updates the magnified image to reflect changes in underlying screen content. The display screen magnifier is configured to operate this way through a leveraging of resources made available by application programming interfaces (APIs) of an operating system, namely a windows style, and a second stage screen content compositing engine associated with the windows style.
US07949950B2 Systems and methods for enhanced document composition features
Systems and methods for enhanced document composition features which can be utilized by a user are described. One method imports user-selected pages into a digital document platform. The method protects content of individual pages while allowing pages to be moved relative to one another and allows new content to be added between the user-selected pages.
US07949949B2 Domain transformation languages
A method and system for transforming documents from different domains into a common representation for viewing and editing is provided. The system prepares the domain-specific document for visual representation by performing a series of transformations in a pipeline that convert the document from its domain-specific input state to a series of intermediate languages. The intermediate languages share the same syntax regardless of the domain of the document being transformed.
US07949945B2 Variable text processing for an electronic press
A software system is useful for generating page files from a template file and database entries. The database entries are representative of variable information and the template file includes data designating a first variable text area and a second variable text area. The software system includes a computer-readable medium storing a software program having first, second, and third routines. The first routine selects a record from the database, while the second routine associates the first variable text area with the contents of an entry in the selected record and associates the second variable text area with one of a plurality of text files. The third routine generates the page files from the template file, the text files, and the database.
US07949944B2 Creation and delivery of customized content
A method, apparatus, and software are disclosed for delivering customized content to clients with diverse content needs, such as clients from diverse geographical areas an language backgrounds. Customizable content is separated from the underlying code, which is used as a template for inserting localized content into a basic document framework as represented by the template. Both electronic mail and Web community customization techniques are disclosed.
US07949942B2 System and method for identifying line breaks
Method, system, and computer code for preparing markup language documents containing multi-line text elements for WYSIWYG printing. The document is rendered in a prepress server system by a duplicate of the browser that was used to prepare the document in the client system. User-imposed line breaks are identified by reviewing text elements for break characters. Browser-imposed line breaks are identified by comparing spatial location information from the browser for each sequential pair of characters in a text element. The collective line break information is used to ensure that the line breaks viewed by the user are maintained when the document is converted to a prepress system.
US07949941B2 Optimizing XSLT based on input XML document structure description and translating XSLT into equivalent XQuery expressions
Transformation of a set of XML documents via an XSLT stylesheet is made more efficient by rewriting the stylesheet at compile-time, based on the structural description of the set of XML documents, into an optimized stylesheet containing fewer dynamic template-matching calls than the original stylesheet. This rewritten stylesheet can be further rewritten into a set of XQuery expressions. At compile-time, the particular transformation templates that are appropriate for transforming the particular nodes contained in the set of XML documents are determined, and XSLT calls to the templates are converted to calls to corresponding XQuery user-defined functions. Determination of the appropriate transformation templates may be based on the structural description of the input set of XML documents, such as an XML Schema or Document Type Definition. The data from each template is translated into corresponding XQuery constructors, instructions from the template are translated into XQuery expressions, and the XQuery functions are inlined if possible.
US07949934B2 Enabling pseudo-class styles without revealing personal information
Various embodiments enable particular CSS pseudo-classes to be employed, but limit particular functionality aspects of those pseudo-classes that can lead to divulging personally identifiable information. Thus, various embodiments can change how a CSS pseudo-class is allowed to function. For example, in at least some embodiments, CSS pseudo-classes are permitted to be used to make the visual formatting changes to a web page, but not structural formatting changes. That is, changes that do not affect the structure of content within a web document are allowed, while changes that affect the structure of the content are not allowed.
US07949930B2 Information recording medium, data sorting device and data reproduction device
A stream including plural access units is recorded on an information recording medium. Each access unit has a first packet that includes basic data as well as a second packet which includes extension data related to the basic data. The basic data is data that is decodable in a completed state without using extension data, and the extension data is data for improving the quality of data generated from the basic data. The header of the first packet holds first information, which indicates that the first packet includes the basic data, and the header of the second packet holds second information which indicates that the second packet includes the extension data. This arrangement allows a decoder that decodes only basic data to process the access unit, which includes the basic data and the extension data.
US07949917B2 Maintaining data coherency in multi-clock systems
A system comprises storage that includes first and second data. The system also comprises circuit logic coupled to the storage. The circuit logic receives a plurality of clock signals. As a result of receiving a signal, the circuit logic uses the plurality of clock signals to obtain the first and second data and to provide the first and second data to target logic coupled to the circuit logic. The system resets the circuit logic between providing the first data and providing the second data.
US07949912B1 System and method of securing data stored in a memory
A system and method of securing data stored in a memory are disclosed. The method comprises storing a payload data in a memory in one of first and second states related by a transform, reading the payload data from the memory, attempting to use the payload data for an application, verifying the payload data as being in the first state, transforming the payload data as a function of the transform in response to verifying that the payload data is in the second state, and repeating performing the verifying and transforming steps until the payload data is verified as being in the first state.
US07949911B2 Method for testing storage apparatus and system thereof
A method for testing a storage apparatus, which includes: (a) writing a specific pattern to a storage unit of a storage apparatus; (b) reading the specific pattern written to the storage apparatus; (c) determining an error bit number of the specific pattern read in the step (b); and (d) determining that the storage unit has defect when the error bit number is larger than a error bit threshold value, wherein the error bit threshold value is smaller than a correctable bit number for a error correction code corresponding to the specific pattern.
US07949898B2 Multi-microprocessor system and control method for the same
A multi-microprocessor system and a control method for the same are provided. The multi-microprocessor system includes a first microprocessor and a second microprocessor. The second microprocessor is coupled to the first microprocessor. The second microprocessor transmits a detecting signal to the first microprocessor and determines a state of the first microprocessor by monitoring the first microprocessor for a predetermined time period. In the event that the first microprocessor crashes, the first microprocessor is immediately rest or restarted by the second microprocessor in order to maximize stability of the multi-microprocessor system.
US07949893B1 Virtual user interface failover
A virtual user interface allows a collection or cluster of data storage devices (nodes of the cluster) to be managed remotely by providing access to cluster management software running on one or more nodes of the cluster. Moreover, the virtual user interface fails-over, such that, if a node hosting an instance of the virtual user interface is unable to continue hosting (e.g., communication becomes unreliable, hardware failure, etc.), the hosting duties are substantially automatically migrated to another node in the cluster. Further, failover rules are substantially automatically organized at an initiation of the cluster, and adjusted in accordance with ongoing events occurring in the cluster to provide an administrator with substantially seamless cluster management capabilities.
US07949889B2 Forced idle of a data processing system
Exemplary embodiments of methods and apparatuses to manage a power of a data processing system are described. One or more constraint parameters of a system are monitored. The data processing system is forced into an idle state for a first portion of a time while allowed to operate for a second portion of the time based on the one or more constraint parameters, wherein the system is forced into the idle state in response to comparing a target idle time to an actual idle time. The target idle time of the system is determined, in one embodiment, based on the one or more constraint parameters. The actual idle time of the system may be monitored to take into account interrupts which disrupt an idle time and idle times resulting from no software instructions to execute. The system may be allowed to operate based on comparisons of the target idle time and the actual idle time.
US07949887B2 Independent power control of processing cores
Independent power control of two or more processing cores. More particularly, at least one embodiment of the invention pertains to a technique to place at least one processing core in a power state without coordinating with the power state of one or more other processing cores.
US07949884B2 Apparatus and method for managing power-saving mode of portable terminal
An apparatus and method for managing a power-saving mode of a portable terminal are provided. The method includes when a application program is running, assigning a network traffic type of the application program with one of a class type selected from a plurality of predefined class types of a sleep mode, instructing a modem to operate in the sleep mode of the assigned class type, and operating the modem in the sleep mode of the assigned class type.
US07949883B2 Cryptographic CPU architecture with random instruction masking to thwart differential power analysis
An apparatus and method for preventing information leakage attacks that utilize timeline alignment. The apparatus and method inserts a random number of instructions into an encryption algorithm such that the leaked information can not be aligned in time to allow an attacker to break the encryption.
US07949882B2 Storage session management system in storage area network
In a storage session management system in a storage area network, the session information blocks periodically collected from the storage devices in the network are grouped based on the information indicating the relation between sessions. That is, since a storage session management server in the management system integrally manages constitution information and operation information, when there is a possibility that circumstances such as a failure and the deterioration of performance occur in information devices, a failure notification module displays such circumstances and makes notification of them to a minimum necessary range that is consolidated by a session consolidation module, thereby a storage session can be managed without applying loads on the respective information devices and the network.
US07949863B2 Inter-port communication in a multi-port memory device
A method and system for inter-port communication utilizing a multi-port memory device. The memory device contains an interrupt register, an interrupt signal interface (e.g., a dedicated pin), an interrupt mask, and one or more message buffers associated with each port. When a first component coupled to a first port of the memory device wants to communicate with a second component coupled to a second port of the memory device, the first component writes a message to a message buffer associated with the second port. An interrupt in the input register of the second port is set to notify the second component coupled to the second port that a new message is available. Upon receiving the interrupt, the second component reads the interrupt register to determine the nature of the interrupt. The second component then reads the message from the message buffer.
US07949859B2 Mechanism for avoiding check stops in speculative accesses while operating in real mode
A method and processor for avoiding check stops in speculative accesses. An execution unit, e.g., load/store unit, may be coupled to a queue configured to store instructions. A register, coupled to the execution unit, may be configured to store a value corresponding to an address in physical memory. When the processor is operating in real mode, the execution unit may retrieve the value stored in the register. Upon the execution unit receiving a speculative instruction, e.g., speculative load instruction, from the queue, a determination may be made as to whether the address of the speculative instruction is at or below the retrieved value. If the address of the speculative instruction is at or below this value, then the execution unit may safely speculatively execute this instruction while avoiding a check stop since all the addresses at or below this value are known to exist in physical memory.
US07949855B1 Scheduler in multi-threaded processor prioritizing instructions passing qualification rule
A processor buffers asynchronous threads. Instructions requiring operations provided by a plurality of execution units are divided into phases, each phase having at least one computation operation and at least one memory access operation. Instructions within each phase are qualified and prioritized. The instructions may be qualified based on the status of the execution unit needed to execute one or more of the current instructions. The instructions may also be qualified based on an age of each instruction, status of the execution units, a divergence potential, locality, thread diversity, and resource requirements. Qualified instructions may be prioritized based on execution units needed to execute instructions and the execution units in use. One or more of the prioritized instructions is issued per cycle to the plurality of execution units.
US07949844B2 Pipelined burst memory access
A memory device for multichannel continuous or fixed burst mode operation includes multiple burst address counter circuits and associated control logic to minimize latency which would otherwise occur in multichannel operation.
US07949843B1 Method and system for single pass volume scanning for multiple destination mirroring
A method for operating a computer data storage system is disclosed. The system operates an active file system on a first volume of a plurality of volumes of storage devices connected to one or more servers, each volume being a plurality of storage devices. Snapshots of the active file system are stored on one or more destination volumes. A mirroring operation is initiated on a selected server of the one or more servers. A scanner executes on the selected server, the scanner identifying a latest snapshot on each of the one or more destination volumes, the scanner. Data blocks which are newer than a latest snapshot stored at each destination volume are sent to each destination volume.
US07949841B2 Protection of critical memory using replication
Typical computer programs may incur costly memory errors that result in corrupted data. A new memory model is presented wherein it may be determined that certain data is critical and critical data may be stored and protected during computer application execution. Critical Memory allows that data determined to be critical may be stored and retrieved using functions enabled to increase the reliability of the data. Functions are presented enabling allocation of redundant computer memory; functions are presented enabling consistently writing critical data to redundant locations; and functions are presented enabling reading critical data while ensuring that the data read is consistent with the most recent write of critical data and enabled to repair inconsistent data. The memory model and functions presented are designed to be compatible with existing third-party libraries.
US07949833B1 Transparent level 2 cache controller
A digital system that connects to a bus that employs physical addresses comprises a processing core. A level one (L1) cache communicates with the processing core. A level two (L2) cache communicates with the L1 cache. Both the L1 cache and the L2 cache are indexed by virtual addresses and tagged with virtual addresses. A bus unit communicates with the L2 cache and with the bus.
US07949830B2 System and method for handling data requests
A system and method for handling speculative read requests for a memory controller in a computer system are provided. In one example, a method includes the steps of providing a speculative read threshold corresponding to a selected percentage of the total number of reads that can be speculatively issued, and intermixing demand reads and speculative reads in accordance with the speculative read threshold. In another example, a computer system includes a CPU, a memory controller, memory, a bus connecting the CPU, memory controller and memory, circuitry for providing a speculative read threshold corresponding to a selected percentage of the total number of reads that can be speculatively issued, and circuitry for intermixing demand reads and speculative reads in accordance with the speculative read threshold. In another example, a method includes the steps of providing a speculative dispatch time threshold corresponding to a selected percentage of a period of time required to search a cache of the computer system, and intermixing demand reads and speculative reads in accordance with the speculative dispatch time threshold.
US07949828B2 Data storage control on storage devices
An object of the present invention is to improve the usage efficiency of a storage extent in a storage system using the Allocation on Use (AOU) technique. A controller in the storage system allocates a storage extent in an actual volume to an extent in a virtual volume accessed by a host computer, detects any decrease in necessity for maintaining that allocation, and cancels the allocation of the storage extent in the actual volume to the extent in the virtual volume based on the detection result.
US07949811B2 Method and device for creating a time schedule for transmitting messages on a bus system
A method for creating a time schedule for transmitting messages on a bus system (bus schedule), the time schedule being created by using a genetic algorithm.
US07949809B2 Peripheral component interconnect express interface and method for signal processing
The present invention discloses a PCI Express interface and a method of signal processing, and particularly relates to the physical coding sub-layer that transmits data between physical media access layer and media access control layer of the PCI Express. The PCI express interface of present invention enables physical coding sub-layer to be able to receive or output 8-bit data as well as to receive or output 16-bit data by adding an input interface unit and an output interface unit in physical coding sub-layer, thereby the data formats of physical coding sub-layer and media access control layer are compatible; enables the physical coding sub-layer to be able to handle data with sampling errors during transmission from physical media access layer to physical coding sub-layer by adding data adjustment unit in the physical coding sub-layer and applying corresponding signal processing method, thereby it ensures the integrity of the data transmitted over physical coding sub-layer.
US07949807B2 Data conversion apparatus and data conversion method
It is aimed, for example, to reduce an amount of power consumption of an operation concerning data encryption or decryption and to make it difficult to perform a power analysis. In the case an exclusive OR operation between 32-bit input data and a 32-bit key is performed to obtain output data of 32 bits, the input data is kept in an input shift register 105 of 32 bits and the key is kept in a key shift register 106 of 32 bits. Then, 1 bit of the input data and 1 bit of the key are input into a serial operator 107, and an exclusive OR of 1 bit is obtained and shifted to the left end of the input shift register 105. The key shift register 106 performs a cyclic right shift. By performing the above thirty-two times, the operation of 32 bits is completed and the last result is kept in the input shift register 105.
US07949795B2 Power conservation in data storage device by only starting the active state when the measured time indicates data is present on the interface
A storage device for storing data includes: an interface controller connectable to a host via a interface, the interface controller having an active state capable of transmitting data to the host and an inactive state having a lower power consumption than the active state; a medium for storing data; a head for read out data stored in the medium; and a processor for executing a process including receiving a command for reading out data stored in the medium from the host, determining timing when the data read out from the medium reaches the interface controller, and starting transition of the interface controller from the inactive state into the active state before the determined timing.
US07949792B2 Encoding a TCP offload engine within FCP
The present invention defines a new protocol for communicating with an offload engine that provides Transmission Control Protocol (“TCP”) termination over a Fibre Channel (“FC”) fabric. The offload engine terminates all protocols up to and including TCP and performs the processing associated with those layers. The offload protocol guarantees delivery and is encapsulated within FCP-formatted frames. Thus, the TCP streams are reliably passed to the host. Additionally, using this scheme, the offload engine can provide parsing of the TCP stream to further assist the host. The present invention also provides network devices (and components thereof) that are configured to perform the foregoing methods. The invention further defines how network attached storage (“NAS”) protocol data units (“PDUs”) are parsed and delivered.
US07949786B2 Method of assigning a node address in a local network
The present invention discloses a home network system using a living network control protocol. The home network system includes: at least one new device including a node address having an initial logical address through a network based on a predetermined protocol, transmitting a configuration request message having the node address to a master device, receiving a temporary address setting request message, changing the initial logical address by selecting one temporary logical address, generating a temporary address setting response message, transmitting the temporary address setting response message to the master device, receiving an address change request message having a predetermined logical address from the master device, changing the temporary logical address into the received logical address, and having a unique node address; and at least one master device for receiving the plurality of configuration request messages from the new device, setting the temporary logical address range for the new device, transmitting the temporary address setting request message having the set temporary logical address range to the new device, receiving the temporary address setting response message from the new device, setting the predetermined logical address of the new device, and transmitting the address change request message having the set logical address to the new device of the selected temporary address.
US07949784B2 Peer-to-peer data relay
Methods and apparatus for relaying data in a peer-to-peer network. In one implementation, a wireless device includes: an antenna; a wireless communication interface connected to said antenna and supporting wireless communication across a wireless connection provided by said antenna; storage supporting storing data; and a controller connected to said wireless interface and to said storage, supporting an application service, a message service, and a relay service for relay messages; wherein said application service provides execution and management of one or more application programs accessible by said controller using application data stored in said storage, said message service provides building messages and processing received messages, and said relay service provides building a new relay message indicating a selected recipient to which the wireless device does not have a direct wireless connection, sending a built new relay message, and sending a received relay message that indicates a recipient other than the wireless device.
US07949781B1 Flow routing for reducing internet congestion
For reducing Internet congestion caused by multiple flows of the same popular content transmitted to different destinations, a single flow of content is transmitted from the content hosting server to an Internet regional domain using a conventional exterior routing and in the regional domain, using an interior flow routing. Inside of regional domain, packet destination address is replaced by a flow number, which is used as a local and temporary alias of content. This enables recipient devices that have requested the same content and have been provided with the flow number to receive the same flow of packets and thus to prevent congestion and delays in content delivery that may be caused by multiple separate flows of the same content transmitted from the content hosting server to recipients at different recipients' addresses. The technology implementation is local to a singly administered regional system and does not require any change to the global Internet infrastructure.
US07949777B2 Communication protocol for controlling transfer of temporal data over a bus between devices in synchronization with a periodic reference signal
A communication protocol over the serial bus allows a peripheral device to control the flow of data between a host computer and the peripheral device so as to maintain synchronization to a periodic reference signal. The protocol involves transferring flow control messages between the peripheral device and the host computer, allowing the peripheral device to control how and when the host computer sends the uncompressed audio and video data.
US07949771B1 Authentication of unknown parties in secure computer communications
Authentication of an unknown party in a secure computer communication may be performed even without consulting a public whitelist of trusted parties. A digital certificate from an unknown party not authenticated by a trusted certificate authority may be locally processed to determine if the digital certificate is a trusted, non-trusted, or unknown digital certificate. For example, a model may be created by training a support vector machine to classify a digital certificate. The model may be provided to a computer involved in secure computer communication. The computer may receive an incoming digital certificate, extract fields from the incoming digital certificate, and take a hash of the extracted fields perform input data that may be employed by the model to determine if the incoming digital certificate is a trusted, non-trusted, or unknown digital certificate.
US07949769B2 Arrangements and methods relating to security in networks supporting communication of packet data
The present invention relates to a system nodes and a method for enhancing security of end user station access to Internet and intranet(s), e.g. of corporate access, over access network access points, with gateway packet data nodes and packet data support nodes. It further includes security indication providing means for providing an (corporate) access point with a security criterium indication (defining security) and for distributing said security indication to a packet data support node. A security enforcement mechanism is provided in the packet data support node, the security enforcement mechanism at least providing for preventing all other traffic not fulfilling the security criterium conflicting the security indicated access point when there is a connection requiring security over the security indicated access point, at least until the last packet of the security indicated access point connection has been sent.
US07949766B2 Offload stack for network, block and file input and output
An apparatus for offloading network, block and file functions from an operating system comprises a network interface coupled to a network for receiving packet flows; one or more processors each having one or more processor cores; a computer-readable medium carrying one or more operating systems and an input/output networking stack which are hosted in one or more of the processor cores. The networking stack is shared among the operating systems. The networking stack comprises instructions which when executed cause receiving a request for data transfer from one of the operating systems at internal network, block and file system interfaces, and permitting data to be transferred between the internal interfaces and a plurality of external interfaces by preventing the operating systems from performing the data transfer and performing the data transfer on behalf of the operating systems.
US07949758B2 Electronically negotiating application layer properties
An initiating application layer and at an initiating message processor identifies offer information for negotiating an application layer agreement such as, for example, the communication properties of a communication channel, with one or more other message processors. The initiating message processor sends a schema-based offer including the offer information to the one or more other message processors. A receiving application layer at a receiving message processor receives the schema-based offer. In response, a receiving application layer at the receiving message processor identifies response information, such as, for example, indicating an acceptance, a rejection or a counter offer to the schema-based offer, for negotiating the application layer agreement. The receiving message processor sends a schema-based response including the response information to the initiating message processor. Negotiations continue until an application layer agreement is reached or until one of the application layers rejects further negotiations.
US07949755B2 Network/service control method
A network/service control method comprises a step of acquiring, when providing a communication service to a user, a user context defined as knowledge information about the user associated with an environment surrounding the user and a past behavior pattern of the user, a step of acquiring a user profile defined as information about a user's favorite registered previously by the user at arbitrary timing, and a service control step of determining network requirements for providing the communication service on the basis of the user context and the user profile.
US07949748B2 Timing module for regulating hits by a spidering engine
A method and system for retrieving web-site based information by a spider engine at a target bandwidth is described. A target bandwidth is received from the spider engine. A wait time is calculated by a timing module. Data retrieval from a web site is delayed by the calculated wait time so that data is retrieved at the desired target bandwidth.
US07949740B2 Methods and systems for prioritized servicing or maintenance of networked printers
Methods and systems are presented for prioritizing service or maintenance of networked printers based on affinities between printers and users determined from job tracking data so that printers shared by large numbers of users or high volume printers used by only one or a few users can be serviced or maintained before other printers to provide overall printer support while mitigating user disruption due to unavailable printers.
US07949737B2 Method and apparatus for grouping nodes based on connection characteristics
Techniques for correlating different results of role grouping includes receiving two sets of grouping of nodes on a network, grouping of the nodes according to connection characteristics of the nodes in the groups, each of the sets having associated identifications and correlating associated identifications of one set with those of the other set so that the two groups have the same identifications, if the member hosts of each set of groups have nearly identical connection habits.
US07949733B2 Driver management method, driver management apparatus, and driver management program
Driver management method, driver management apparatus and driver management program which manages drivers corresponding to devices connected to a network, in which devices connected to a subnet of the network are detected, and drivers corresponding to the devices connected to the subnet, of drivers installed in a user terminal are presented to a user.
US07949731B2 Communication apparatus, communication control method, and program for reading communication control information for removable storage media
The present invention relates to a communication apparatus, communication control method and program adapted for carrying out wireless LAN communications without imposing a troublesome feeling upon the user. A television receiver carries out communications with another apparatus through a predetermined network. Meanwhile, the television receiver, when inserted by a memory card 13 in its card slot 10, reads wireless LAN information out of the memory card 13 and sets the wireless LAN information to the television receiver. The present invention is applicable to a television receiver or the like having a wireless LAN function, for example.
US07949730B2 System and method for remote data acquisition and distribution
Methods and systems for remote data collection and distribution include components and operations for receiving, at a server, data transmitted by a first client device via a communication network. The method may also include selecting, by one or more client devices associated with the communication network, a second device to receive the data. The method may further include establishing a connection between the server and the selected second device via the communication network. The method may also include automatically transmitting the received data to the second device using the connection via the communication network. The method may further include causing, by the one or more client devices, the second device to execute a predefined operation.
US07949729B2 System and method for displaying dynamic page content in a page-caching browser
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for displaying dynamic page content in a page-caching browser. The system and method prevent the loading of unintended page content from a local cache into a browser by ensuring the uniqueness of the content request. Such embodiments include (i) specifying an address to stored content; (ii) appending a unique identifier to the address; (iii) requesting the content with the address and appended identifier; and (iv) transmitting the content request to the server regardless of whether there is cached content associated with the address. By appending a unique identifier to the requested address, each content request is unique, thus, preventing the browser from locating and loading corresponding content from the cache.
US07949713B2 Information providing apparatus, provided information presenting apparatus, and information providing method
In order to achieve secure provision of appropriate information according to the status of a plurality of terminal apparatuses, a status detecting section detects the status of a cellular mobile phone, and the like, and a communication destination apparatus determining section selects a terminal apparatus with which communication can be established and at which received information can be presented according to the priority for transmission of the provided information. A content DB retrieves information to be provided. A server communication section transmits retrieved provided information to the selected terminal apparatus. With such a structure, the provided information is presented at another terminal apparatus when a terminal apparatus having a high priority is impossible to establish communication or is unsuitable for presentation of the provided information. Thus, provision of information is securely achieved.
US07949712B2 High availability presence engine for instant messaging
Systems for a high availability presence engine for instant messaging service comprise a plurality of presence engines for receiving presence information on users and a global table engine accessible to the plurality of presence engines. The global table engine includes user presence information and receives presence changes from the plurality of presence engines. A plurality of local tables are accessible to the plurality of presence engines and the global table engine. The plurality of local tables are configured such that each of the plurality of local tables is associated with at least one of the plurality of presence engines, and is configured to receive presence change information from the global table engine. Other systems and methods are also provided.
US07949710B2 System and method for instant messenger to make friend by cyber pet
A method by which a service system including an instant messenger server provides users with a service for raising a cyber pet and making friends through the cyber pet, includes the service system's providing and installing an instant messenger program to a user; receiving, storing and managing the user's friend list; displaying a cyber pet on the user's client terminal when an instant messenger active window is opened; and in the case that the user does not raise the cyber pet for a predetermined time, receiving the user's friend list and friend lists of another users hierarchically linked thereto, forming a potential friend list from the collected friend lists of another users, moving the cyber pet to the friend list and the potential friend list of the user, and displaying the cyber pet to another user executing the instant messenger.
US07949709B2 Internal substitution bi-level addressing for compatible public networks
Communications traffic in a network is addressed. An original signal comprising an embedded destination service address is receiving at an ingress capable network device of the network. A database server is queried to obtain an internal routing address corresponding to the embedded destination service address. A transit signal corresponding to the original signal and including at least the embedded destination service address is routed through the network to an egress capable network device of the network according to the internal routing address. The transit signal enables the egress capable network device to restore the embedded destination service address and to forward the transit signal from the network.
US07949707B2 Internet radio receiver with linear tuning interface
A system for supplying streaming media or other media sources to clients, said system providing for selection of internet based audio content providers based on arbitrarily assigned numbers that function as proxies for the URL or IP address of the audio content providers.
US07949701B2 Method and system to perform shifting and rounding operations within a microprocessor
A method and system to perform shifting and rounding operations within a microprocessor, such as, for example, a digital signal processor, during execution of a single instruction are described. An instruction to shift and round data within a source register unit of a register file structure is received within a processing unit. The instruction includes a shifting bit value indicating the bit amount for a right shift operation and is subsequently executed to shift data within the source register unit to the right by an encoded bit value, calculated by subtracting a single bit from the shifting bit value contained within the instruction. A predetermined bit extension is further inserted within the vacated bit positions adjacent to the shifted data. Subsequently, an addition operation is performed on the shifted data and a unitary integer value is added to the shifted data to obtain resulting data. Finally, the resulting data is further shifted to the right by a single bit value and a predetermined bit extension is inserted within the vacated bit position to obtain the final rounded data results to be stored within a destination register unit.
US07949697B2 Bit field operation circuit
A bit field operation circuit has a first shift unit, a mask shift amount control circuit, a second shift unit, a logic operation unit, and a selection unit. The first shift unit outputs a first intermediate data based on a first control signal. The mask shift amount control circuit outputs a mask shift control signal in accordance with a mask shift amount. The second shift unit outputs a second intermediate data based on a mask shift control signal. The third shift unit outputs a third intermediate data based on the first control signal. The logic operation unit performs logical operation of the second intermediate data and the third intermediate data, and outputs a mask selection data. The selection unit selects either one of the first intermediate data or the second input data based on the mask selection data to output as output data.
US07949693B1 Log-structured host data storage
Methods of communicating data between a host and a client. The methods may comprise the step of receiving a write request from a client. The write request may comprise first data and first metadata describing a logical position of the first data within a file. The first data may be encrypted to the host. The methods may also comprise the step of writing the first data to a data storage. The first data may be written as a data sub-file of the file. In addition, the methods may comprise the step of writing the first metadata to the data storage. The first metadata may be written as a metadata sub-file of the file.
US07949669B2 Methods, systems, and computer readable media for self-targeted content delivery
Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media are provided for self-targeted content delivery are provided. Content objects can be delivered to a user and indications from the user to mark any content object can be received thereby generating standard data structures to be placed into a central data store. At a later time, on various other systems, a content guide may be provided to the user showing the content related to the standard data structures placed in the central store. The user may mark digital content as it is encountered via television, internet, mobile devices, automobile terminals, public terminals, kiosks, or otherwise. Standardized data structures can allow the marking to operate across platforms, operating systems, hardware, and delivery modes. Content guides created from data structures associated with marked content can allow the marked content to be recalled and accessed from any of various other systems at a later time.
US07949661B2 System and method for identifying web communities from seed sets of web pages
An improved system and method is provided for identifying web communities from seed sets of web pages. A seed set of web pages may be represented as a set of seed vertices of a graph representing a collection of web pages. An initial probability distribution may be constructed on vertices of the graph by assigning a nonzero value to the vertices belonging to the seed set. Then a sequence of probability distributions may be produced on the vertices of the graph by modifying the probability distribution over a series of one-step walks of the probability distribution over the vertices of the graph. For each probability distribution produced in the sequence, level sets of vertices may be generated, and a level set with minimal conductance may be selected for each probability distribution. The level set with the least conductance may then be output representing a community of web pages.
US07949660B2 Method and apparatus for searching and resource discovery in a distributed enterprise system
A method for searching and resource discovery in a distributed enterprise (DE), the method including: generating a first classifier for a first repository in the DE; generating a second classifier for a second repository in the DE, where the second classifier has a vector element identifying a location of the second repository; submitting a copy of the second classifier to a web server of the first repository; obtaining a resource at the first repository after submitting the copy of the second classifier; matching the resource to the copy of a second classifier; sending a copy of the resource to the second repository using the vector element; and storing the copy of the resource in the second repository.
US07949657B2 Detecting zero-result search queries
A processing device and method may be provided for determining whether a zero search result may be produced with respect to a search for a document including all words of a word group. An index, with respect to words included in a group of documents, may be searched for documents including all words of the word group when a zero search result is determined not likely to occur with respect to the search for the document including all of the words of the word group. A method for creating multiple types of data structures corresponding to word grouping collections may further be provided to store occurrence information indicating a likelihood of a presence of a document including all words of a word group.
US07949645B2 Control method for modifying engineering information from a remote work site and a system of the same
A control method for modifying information concerning a remote work site includes: (i) setting up a database that comprises information concerning a remote work site; (ii) using an electronic device that has an image-capturing unit, in order to capture images of equipment or construction sites at the remote work site; (iii) communicating with an access platform and an option menu arranged on the access platform via an Internet connected module, creating an issue in a network database via the electronic device with an Internet browser and accessing information about the issue via the option menu that allows access to the database according to an authority level of a user; or creating an issue directly on a network database via an network connected module; and (iv) modifying the information in accordance with the issue of the images from the remote work site.
US07949636B2 Systems and methods for a read only mode for a portion of a storage system
In general, embodiments of the invention relate to reading data from and writing data to a storage system. Specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to a read only mode for a portion of a storage system. In one embodiment, a selective read-only mode for a portion of a storage system is implemented by monitoring a condition that may affect a subset of persistent storage in a storage system, by detecting the condition, by entering a read-only mode for the subset, and by enforcing a policy of processing write requests and read requests to the storage system, which includes processing the write requests without modifying user data stored on the subset and processing the read requests, including requests for user data stored on the subset.
US07949635B1 Backup server architecture
A method for managing archived data includes creating a plurality of images of storage devices of computing systems and for, different users, each image being associated with a restore point of a particular storage device; storing the images for the different users in different storage locations, the storage locations being controlled by a single backup server and belonging to storage pools. Multiple locations of one user are stored in different pools on different storage devices. The method also involves moving contents of locations of one user from one pool to another in predefined direction, simultaneously with reorganizing images within the locations. Each image is a backup of one user's data. At least some of one location's content is frozen so that it is never moved from one pool to another. The storage devices of locations of different pools differ from each other by type, such that storage devices in a first pool are hard disk drives, storage devices in the next pool are SAN, or an NAS, and a storage device in the next pool is a network disk drive accessible through a network and a storage device in the next pool is a magnetic tape drive.
US07949632B2 Database-rearranging program, database-rearranging method, and database-rearranging apparatus
A database-rearranging program which is capable of rearranging a database while maintaining high reliability, without stopping services provided by the database. When a request for rearranging the copy source database is input, a record copying module sequentially selects pages in the copy source database, and the records in the selected page are copied to the copy destination database. Further, the record copying module sets a progress of copying of each page of the copy source database to a page status management table. Thereafter, when a request for writing updated records is input, a record writing module refers to the page status management table, and when a page of the copy source database in which the updated records should be written is in an uncopied status, the updated records are written in the page of the copy source database, and when the same is in a copied status, the updated records are written in the copy source database and the copy destination database.
US07949625B2 Automated management of brand rules for providing content
Automated assistance is provided for managing rules and/or guidelines regarding the usage of branded content for a project, e.g., an advertising campaign, event, signage, decoration, and the like. One or more queries regarding the project are presented to the user. Based on the user's responses to the queries, branded content that is approved for the project's intended use(s) is automatically identified and made available to the user. The determination of which digitized content (media objects) to provide to the user is based at least in part on brand rules and/or guidelines that can be relatively static or dynamically updated by the current user.
US07949622B2 System and method for generating a classifier model for classifying web content
Generally, the present invention provides a method and computerized system for generating a classifier model, wherein the classifier model is operative to classify web content. The method and computerized system includes a first step of defining a plurality of predictive performance measures based on a leave one out (LOO) cross validation in terms of selectable model parameters. Exemplary predictive performance measures includes smoothened predictive measures such as F-measure, weighted error rate measure, area under curve measure, by way of example. The method and computerized system further includes deriving efficient analytical expressions for predictive performance measures to compute the LOO predictive performance and their derivatives. The next step is thereupon selecting a classifier model based on the LOO predictive performance.
US07949617B1 System and methods for facilitating user thinking and learning utilizing enhanced interactive constructs
Embodiments of the invention provide system and methods for new approaches for facilitating the development of and transferring of user thinking and understanding about an arbitrary problem, in some embodiments through automatically creating new interactive forms of thinking and knowledge constructs as enhanced interactive and/or visually appealing presentational and working forms. Some embodiments involve the development of an interactive construct by one or more users for use by one or more other users (as in educational or professional development situations, for example).
US07949612B2 Method and load input device for optimizing log truck productivity
A method of optimizing log truck productivity utilizing technology allowing the entry of log truck orders from the field. The present invention generally seeks to improve productivity by (1) minimizing the distances log trucks drive with empty loads and (2) improving coordination between groups of log truck drivers and groups of log loaders to allow for more efficient cross-servicing between the parties. Using the load input device, a loader operator in the field enters a “load ticket” that specifies a mill destination, a desired pickup time for the truck to arrive at the logging site and a desired trailer configuration type. This order is transmitted to a server where it is a received into a centralized application or server. A computer running optimization software can match the load with available trucks or trucks about to become available.
US07949611B1 Controlling access to profile information in a social network
Systems and methods for controlling access to relationship information in a social network are described. One described method comprises receiving a request from an observer for relationship information indicating at least a first relationship between a target in a social network and a second entity in the social network, identifying at least a first privacy rule for the first relationship, and outputting at least part of the relationship information to the observer if the first privacy rule is satisfied.
US07949609B2 System for secure online selling, buying and bill pay in an electronic commerce setting
A method and system for biometric-secure online selling, buying and bill paying in electronic commerce and retail point-of-sale settings that also simplifies the checkout process and eliminates fraudulent transactions. The system relies on an exchange service provider (ESP) that hosts multiple servers: one implementing a web portal for secure online banking, auctions and other exchange opportunities, another being a biometric fingerprint device authenticating database, and yet another being a transaction traffic manager. Participating banks and supporting institutions distribute and activate Secure Individual Identity Devices (SIIDs) to registered users, each SIID being a portable biometric activated identification device that locally stores a fraction of the enrolled users fingerprint (minutia) along with an encrypted code that is used to verify and authenticate the user, eliminating the use of personal or financial information for this purpose. The SiiD becomes the user's own personal key for completing secure online transactions. The user simply plugs their SiiD into any USB-equipped device and scans their own fingerprint for each transaction. The encrypted codes are authenticated in the ESP database and the transaction is processed to the appropriate financial institutions.
US07949597B2 Method of collecting delinquent specialized debt
An internet-based system for organization and collection of specialized debt that is delinquent; an example of specialized debt being healthcare debt.
US07949595B2 Computer-implemented systems and methods for resource allocation
Systems and methods are described for processing queue data and for providing queue messaging over a network. An illustrative queuing system includes a first queue configured to hold resource requests from a plurality of users, and program code stored in computer readable memory configured to determine or estimate whether a resource requested by a first resource request submitted by a first requester will be available when the first resource request will be serviced, and to transmit a message over a network to the first requester indicating that the requested resource will not be available when the queued request is serviced if it is estimated or determined that the requested resource will not be available when the first request is serviced.
US07949589B2 System and method for evaluating and managing participatory real estate investments and transactions
An automated System and method for evaluating real estate Candidate Transactions for participatory funding by Investment Criteria based Managed Investment Funds; and, then managing the funded Candidate Transactions from purchase and/or construction to completion and/or sale. Complex, secured, real estate based participatory funding transactions, are evaluated, funded and transacted from initiation to completion, by utilization of a method employing an automated system to effectively evaluate the advisability of investing in evaluated and ranked Candidate Transactions which meet Investor Criteria. A system administrator sets system policy for a system transaction manager to move content and protocol to/from indexed users over a communication link to evaluate candidate transactions from real estate investors, fund accepted candidate transactions, oversee improvements, and execute exit strategies. Accepted Candidate transactions are funded and moved in a seamless interface by an automated systems manager that employs vendors, interfaces with consultants and directs all aspects of a real estate based transaction from funding through completion.
US07949586B2 Method and system for creating and trading derivative investment instruments based on an index of collateralized options
Collateralized option index derivative investment instruments and methods for creating a collateralized option index are disclosed herein based on changes in a performance of collateralized option strategies. According to an aspect of the disclosure, a method for calculating a collateralized option index is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method for calculating a collateralized option index includes calculating a value of a portfolio invested in a collateralized short strategy according to the relation: Vt=Mt−NlastPt where Mt is a value of a LIBOR component of the portfolio at the close of date t, Nlast is a number of put options sold at a last roll date, and Pt is a price of the underlying option portfolio based on arithmetic averages of the last bid and ask prices of all options in the underlying option portfolio reported before a time on date t.
US07949581B2 Method of determining an obsolescence rate of a technology
Methods for constructing an estimated depreciated schedule for a patent are disclosed. The steps for constructing this schedule may include: (1) determining a first function which approximately describes the rate of initial increase in expected forward patent citations over time; (2) determining a second function which approximately describes the rate of eventual decay in expected forward patent citations over time; and (3) constructing an estimated depreciation schedule using a calculated decay coefficient derived from said second function.
US07949578B2 Sales force automation and method
A salesforce automation system which integrates computerized, intelligent automated salesperson support for multiple phases of the sales process. Various subsystems may be provided to facilitate the sales process which may include pre-sales lead generation, maximize time spent with the customer, effectively manage an order, ensure customer satisfaction and retain the customer for future sales. Also provided to support the phases of the sales process are additional tools, integrated in the system. The additional tools may include self management subsystems, sales management subsystems and training subsystems.
US07949561B2 Method for determining advertising effectiveness
A method for determining advertising effectiveness of cross-media campaigns provided. The effectiveness of the combined campaign is plotted, and the effects of different media are isolated. Examining complementary effects and synergies are examined, and a dollar-for-dollar comparison for each of the media is performed. This dollar-for-dollar comparison may include a return on marketing objective calculation. If applicable, budget re-allocations are recommended. Optionally, post effectiveness, efficiency, and allocation analysis are performed. Such analysis may include providing descriptive advertising and media suggestions on each media independently.
US07949557B2 Method and system for improving recycling through the use of financial incentives
Methods and systems are provided for improving recycling and participation rates by providing financial incentives to households engaged in recycling. Certain embodiments of the invention relate to reduction of costs associated with waste collection and the enhancement of collection efficiency. Other embodiments of the invention relate to opening a marketing channel for participating retailers to build value from responsible corporate citizenship.
US07949544B2 Integrated system for generation and retention of medical records
A system for populating patient records by use of evidence-based relational database, which compares the medical practitioners diagnoses to predetermined responses, to produce accurate patient chart notes and the integration of stored and generated data into clinical and administrative medical record keeping and billing. Episodic encounters are developed into cases for a specific patient under the care of a practitioner. The subjective symptoms from the patient and the objective observations of the care provider concurrent with the episode are used to form a diagnosis which presents a treatment regimen from an evidence-based relational database and populates medical and administrative templates. Patient history and updated information are retained in the database. “Best practice” treatment plans are continually placed in the relational database from practice guides and experts in the field.
US07949525B2 Active labeling for spoken language understanding
A spoken language understanding method and system are provided. The method includes classifying a set of labeled candidate utterances based on a previously trained classifier, generating classification types for each candidate utterance, receiving confidence scores for the classification types from the trained classifier, sorting the classified utterances based on an analysis of the confidence score of each candidate utterance compared to a respective label of the candidate utterance, and rechecking candidate utterances according to the analysis. The system includes modules configured to control a processor in the system to perform the steps of the method.
US07949524B2 Speech recognition correction with standby-word dictionary
At least one recognized keyword is presented to a user, and the keyword is corrected appropriately upon receipt of a correction for the presented result. A standby-word dictionary used for recognition of uttered speech is generated according to a result of the correction to recognize the uttered speech. Therefore, even if recognized keywords contain an error, the error can be corrected and uttered speech can be accurately recognized.
US07949518B2 Hierarchy encoding apparatus and hierarchy encoding method
A hierarchy encoding apparatus capable of calculating appropriate delay amounts and also capable of suppressing increase in the bit rate. In this apparatus, a first layer encoding part (101) encodes the input signal of the n-th frame to produce a first layer encoded code. A first layer decoding part (102) generates a first layer decoded signal from the first layer encoded code and applies it to a delay amount calculating part (103) and a second layer encoding part (105). The delay amount calculating part (103) uses the first layer decoded signal and input signal to calculate the delay amount to be added to the input signal, and applies the calculated delay amount to a delay part (104). The delay part (104) delays the input signal by the delay amount applied from the delay amount calculating part (103) and then applied it to a second layer encoding part (105). The second layer encoding part (105) uses the first layer decoded signal and the input signal from the delay part (104) for encoding.
US07949511B2 System and method for tunneling and slicing based BMC decomposition
A system and method for bounded model checking of computer programs includes providing a program having at least one reachable property node. The program is decomposed for bounded model checking (BMC) into subproblems by creating a tunnel based on disjunctive control paths through the program. A reduced BMC sub-problem obtained using BMC unrolling, while using path constraints imposed by the at least one tunnel. For the reachable property node, determining a quantifier-free formula (QFP) in a decidable subset of first order logic. Satisfiability of the QFP is checked, independently and individually, to determine whether the QFP is satisfiable for the subproblem. The decomposing is continued until the a BMC bound is reached.
US07949501B1 Systems and methods for a real time machine simulator to explore the effects of rules used in a modular manufacturing or assembly system
A simulation device for simulating and exploring the effects of different policies used on a machine in a manufacturing system. The simulation device representing the machine includes controls to allow the participation of an operator in simulation modeling. The operator initiates the simulation process by, for example, loading a block into the simulator according to a hypothesis policy. During the simulation, a computer records all the changes in the system and those changes are transmitted to the computer. When the simulation stops, the total number of items completed by the system represents the throughput of the system during the simulation time. The operator can view the results of the simulation and change the policies and repeat the simulation using the same system structure or parameters.
US07949484B2 Probability density function separating apparatus, probability density function separating method, noise separating apparatus, noise separating method, testing apparatus, testing method, calculating apparatus, calculating method, program, and recording medium
There is provided a probability density function separating apparatus that separates a predetermined component in a given probability density function, including: a domain transforming section that is supplied with the probability density function and transforms the probability density function into a spectrum in a frequency domain; and a standard deviation computing section that computes standard deviation of a random component included in the probability density function based on the spectrum.
US07949482B2 Delay-based bias temperature instability recovery measurements for characterizing stress degradation and recovery
A method, test circuit and test system provide measurements to accurately characterize threshold voltage changes due to negative bias temperature instability (NBTI) and positive bias temperature instability (PBTI). Both the bias temperature instability recovery profile and/or the bias temperature shifts due to rapid repetitions of stress application can be studied. In order to provide accurate measurements when stresses are applied at intervals on the order of tens of nanoseconds while avoiding unwanted recovery, and/or to achieve recovery profile sampling resolutions in the nanosecond range, multiple delay or ring oscillator frequency measurements are made using a delay line that is formed from delay elements that have delay variation substantially caused only by NBTI or PBTI effects. Devices in the delay elements are stressed, and then the delay line/ring oscillator is operated to measure a threshold voltage change for one or more measurement periods on the order of nanoseconds.
US07949481B2 Self-orienting embedded in-situ flux system
A fluid flux measurement system that includes a heated element fluid flow sensor that is capable of being repositioned relative to a mean fluid flux direction is disclosed. The repositioning may be performed by a motor interconnected to the heated element fluid flow sensor. The heated element fluid flow sensor may be positioned proximate to the measurement region of a sonic anemometer and may be operable to be repositioned relative to the sonic anemometer. The heated element fluid flow sensor may be a three-dimensional hot-film constant temperature anemometer. The fluid flux system may be operable to measure small-scale turbulent fluxes in uncontrolled environments such as remotely located atmospheric monitoring stations. The heated element fluid flow sensor may be calibrated in-situ with data collected by the sonic anemometer.
US07949474B2 Visual-servoing optical microscopy
The present invention provides methods and devices for the knowledge-based discovery and optimization of differences between cell types. In particular, the present invention provides visual servoing optical microscopy, as well as analysis methods. The present invention provides means for the close monitoring of hundreds of individual, living cells over time; quantification of dynamic physiological responses in multiple channels; real-time digital image segmentation and analysis; intelligent, repetitive computer-applied cell stress and cell stimulation; and the ability to return to the same field of cells for long-term studies and observation. The present invention further provides means to optimize culture conditions for specific subpopulations of cells.
US07949472B1 Rapid polymer sequencer
Method and system for rapid and accurate determination of each of a sequence of unknown polymer components, such as nucleic acid components. A self-assembling monolayer of a selected substance is optionally provided on an interior surface of a pipette tip, and the interior surface is immersed in a selected liquid. A selected electrical field is impressed in a longitudinal or transverse direction at the tip, a polymer sequence is passed through the tip, and a change in an electrical current signal is measured as each polymer component passes through the tip. Each measured change in electrical current signals is compared with a database of reference signals, with each reference signal identified with a polymer component, to identify the unknown polymer component. The tip preferably has a pore inner diameter of no more than about 40 nm and is prepared by heating and pulling a very small section of a glass tubing.
US07949469B2 Obstacle avoidance control device and recording medium
An obstacle avoidance control device has a detector for detecting the distance between a vehicle and an obstacle and the relative speed of the vehicle with respect to the obstacle, a memory for storing a map for calculating vehicle generation force to avoid the obstacle based on a parameter set by a physical quantity determined by a component Vx in the vehicle front-rear direction as of the relative speed, a component Vy in the vehicle lateral direction of the relative speed, and a distance Ye′ in the vehicle lateral direction, for avoiding the obstacle, and a computing unit for computing the parameter based on the distance and the relative speed that are detected by the detector and computing vehicle generation force by using the calculated parameter and the map.
US07949465B2 Method and apparatus for routing ocean going vessels to avoid treacherous environments
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for generating a route for a vessel to travel from a start point to an end point. A start point and an end point for the vessel are identified. A forecast of wave conditions during a period of time is obtained. A model of the vessel is obtained, wherein the model includes parameters used to calculate a response of the vessel to the wave conditions. A route is generated from the start point to the end point for the vessel to travel on using the model of the vessel and the forecast of the wave conditions, wherein the route avoids conditions that may cause a treacherous environment and meets a set of goals.
US07949459B2 Control apparatus for vehicle
A target throttle opening degree computing device of a control apparatus computes a target throttle opening degree of a throttle valve and includes a phase lead compensator. A filter filters the target throttle opening degree to provide an ultimate target throttle opening degree, which is used to drive a drive motor to adjust an opening degree of the throttle valve.
US07949458B2 Control apparatus and method and control unit
A control apparatus capable of ensuring high control accuracy even if a controlled object is in a transient state, when a control input is calculated based on a value obtained by correcting a value calculated by a feedforward control method using a value calculated by a feedback control method. The control apparatus calculates a fuel correction coefficient such that an output from an oxygen concentration sensor converges to a target output, and multiplies a basic injection amount by the coefficient to calculate a fuel injection amount. The basic injection amount is selected from three values according to the cause of a mapping error. Two of them are calculated by searching respective maps according to corrected throttle valve opening values and engine speed. The other is calculated by multiplying a value obtained by searching a map according to the opening and the speed by a correction coefficient.
US07949455B2 Brake control apparatus for vehicle and brake control method for vehicle
A brake control apparatus which is used in a vehicle having wheels on left and right sides, and controls a braking force provided to each wheel is disclosed. The brake control apparatus is provided with a vehicle body speed calculating section, a steering angle calculating section, and an ECU. A braking force is provided to a wheel on the inner side with respect to the vehicle turning direction in the case where the absolute value of the steering angle is equal to or greater than the preset threshold value of the steering angle. In the case where the vehicle body speed is less than the preset speed threshold value, the braking force becomes smaller than the braking force in the case where the vehicle body speed is equal to or greater than the speed threshold value.
US07949452B2 Optimizing shift strategies through driving simulation
A motor vehicle includes a clutch and an automated transmission between the engine and the drive wheels of the vehicle. A method for shift control in the motor vehicle when starting off or under way includes continuously performing computer simulations of the future driving of the vehicle, at least in response to information on road incline and throttle opening position, for a set of different shift schedules with combinations of engine speeds when shifting and shift steps, and selecting a shift schedule from the set of shift schedules which is optimal with regard to a selected criterion.
US07949450B2 Control system for a torque transmitting device in an automatic transmission
A control system for controlling a torque transmitting device in a transmission includes a controller, a plurality of solenoids, and a valve assembly. The valve assembly has a plurality of signal control areas in communication with the solenoids that are used to control the torque transmitting device to provide multiple gains of torque transmission.
US07949449B2 Constant work tool angle control
A method of controlling a work tool with respect to a design surface gradient identifies surface gradient and determines a desired angle for the work tool. Movement of the machine is monitored and the distance between the design surface gradient and the work tool is determined. The angle of the work tool is varied based on one or more of these parameters.
US07949445B2 Suspension control device, vehicle comprising said device, production and associated program
A device for controlling the suspension of the body shell of a motor vehicle performs calculation of a relative modal body shell speed in relation to the mid-plane of the wheels, and calculation of the set modal stress of the damper as a function of the relative modal body shell speed in relation to the mid-plane of the wheels. The control value includes a determined shock absorption principle from among a plurality of different shock absorption principles that impose the force of the damper as a function of its travel speed.
US07949439B2 Method and a system for diagnosing an aircraft from measurements performed on the aircraft
A method of diagnosing an aircraft by analyzing at least one spectrum obtained from measurements taken on the aircraft, in particular from vibration measurements, in which the spectrum (spectra) to be analyzed is/are input to a calculation module (23) together with at least one first reference spectrum, the calculation module determining a diagnosis value (Diag) as a function of the spectrum (spectra) to be analyzed, of the reference spectrum (spectra), and of parameters determined from at least two reference spectra including the first reference spectrum.
US07949433B2 Sensor device for interrupting irrigation
Methods and apparatus are provided herein for permitting or interrupting irrigation using sensor equipment. In one embodiment, a method for controlling irrigation comprising the steps of: generating an indication representing the amount of rain fall at a sensor unit; transmitting a signal comprising at least the indication from the sensor unit to an interface unit, wherein the interface unit is adapted to cause an interruption of programmed watering schedules of an irrigation controller; receiving the signal at the interface unit; determining, based at least on the indication from the signal, whether irrigation should be interrupted; and generating an interrupt command to interrupt irrigation.
US07949431B2 Fitting device for adjusting state of clogging caused in fit
A fitting device for fitting a fitting workpiece, which is held by a robot, to a workpiece to be fitted by force control, comprises: a force detecting portion for detecting a force and moment acting on a control point of the fitting workpiece; a judging portion for judging whether or not clogging is caused between the fitting workpiece and the workpiece to be fitted at the time of fitting; and a changing portion for changing a position of the control point according to a distance by which the fitting workpiece enters the workpiece to be fitted and for pressing the fitting workpiece against the workpiece to be fitted in a direction perpendicular to the fitting direction so as to adjust a posture of the fitting workpiece on the basis of the control point that has been changed, in the case where it is judged by the judging portion that clogging is caused. Due to the foregoing, posture of the fitting workpiece can be appropriately adjusted in a short period of time so that the fitting workpiece can be fitted into the workpiece to be fitted.
US07949422B1 Machine tool control system
A machine tool control system. A machine tool controller is provided to receive commands from an input source and provide control instructions to a machine tool based at least in part on the commands. An operator interface is provided for inputting commands to the controller. The interface includes a display screen having images of individual command functions, the images being selectable on the screen to place into a sequence of command functions selected by an operator. A sequence generator indicates sequential ordering of the command functions represented by the sequence of images on the screen, such that a sequence of images on the screen selected by the operator is translated by the operator controller sequence generator into a sequence of commands to be inputted into the controller. The operator interface may include one or more images each representing a plurality of individual command functions in a defined sequence.
US07949419B2 Method and system for controlling gain during multipath multi-rate audio processing
Methods and systems for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. Aspects of the method may comprise controlling gain during multipath, multi-rate audio processing by generating via a digital gain circuit, a digital signal that is a product of an input digital signal and a gain coefficient derived from a lookup table, and bit-shifted to generate a digital output signal. The gain coefficient may be partitioned into a number of gain blocks. The gain values in each of the gain blocks may be twice a corresponding value in each preceding gain block. The gain blocks may be partitioned into steps that represent particular gain values within a range associated with the gain block. The digital output signal may be ramped utilizing a linear interpolation of the gain coefficients one step apart over a number of samples of the digital input signal, where the number of samples is given as a power of two.
US07949418B2 Safety programmable logic controller
A safety PLC includes an I/O module to which a safety device for detecting a predetermined condition at any time is connected, a CPU module that executes a safety program for managing the I/O module, and a communication unit that interconnects the I/O module and the CPU module with each other. The CPU module includes: a PIN code memory that stores a PIN code for authenticating that the safety program satisfies a predetermined standard; a PIN code input unit that allows a user to designate the PIN code; a program auto-creating unit that automatically creates the safety program; and a program authentication unit that puts the safety program into an executable condition when the PIN code designated by the user coincides with the PIN code stored in the PIN code memory.
US07949413B2 Operator interface terminal for correlating data points to time points
An operator interface terminal receives individual data points from a machine at individual time points. The operator interface terminal correlates the individual data points to the individual time points as the data points are received. The operator interface terminal transfers the data points correlated to the time points to a central information system. The operator interface terminal receives a control instruction from an operator. The operator interface terminal processes the control instruction to transfer a control signal to the machine, wherein the control signal drives the machine to operate based on the control instruction.
US07949396B2 Ultrasonic transducer for a metallic cavity implated medical device
An implantable medical device comprising a housing and an ultrasonic transducer having a communication frequency coupled to a portion of the housing. The housing resonates at the communication frequency, and a casing is coupled to the housing and disposed over the ultrasonic transducer. The casing is adapted to amplify the deformation of the ultrasonic transducer in a bending mode and transfer the bending moment to the housing. An implantable medical device comprising a housing having an upper portion and a lower portion. A first ultrasonic transducer is coupled to a first connection rod and is coaxial with the first connection rod. The first ultrasonic transducer and first connection rod are interposed between the upper and lower portions such that the first ultrasonic transducer is adapted to vibrate the upper and lower portions simultaneously. A method of optimizing an ultrasonic transducer and a housing of an implantable medical device.
US07949391B2 System and method for regulating cardiac triggered therapy to the brain
A medical device system includes a brain monitoring element, cardiac monitoring element, therapy module and a processor. The processor is configured to activate the therapy module upon detection of a cardiac event in the cardiac signal. The processor is further configured to monitor the brain signal and communicate to the therapy module to change the cardiac triggered therapeutic output to the brain based upon the brain monitoring. A method of treating a person with a neurological disorder is also provided.
US07949388B1 Methods and systems to characterize ST segment variation over time
A system and method are provided for characterizing ST segment (STS) variations of a patient. The method includes collecting STS variations for multiple data collection periods, calculating multiple statistical parameters based on the collected STS variations, and constructing a STS variation trend. The statistical parameters are associated with a corresponding data collection period. The STS variation trend is based on the multiple statistical parameters over multiple data collection periods.
US07949385B2 System and method for reconstruction of the human ear canal from optical coherence tomography scans
A method for reconstructing an ear canal from optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan data of an ear comprises extracting frame numbers and line numbers of interference intensities corresponding to one or more markers on an OCT scan guide, receiving reference frame numbers and lines numbers for one or more markers, determining a starting position and direction for the OCT ear scan from the ear scan marker frame and line numbers and the reference marker frame and line numbers, for each scan line, finding a pixel number of a maximum interference intensity value, and determining an offset distance of said pixel from said scan guide, and reconstructing a surface of the ear canal from the distance offset data.
US07949373B2 Combined telephone and credit transaction enabler
A credit transaction enabled cell phone has its back removably attached to a plate by a double-sided tape or clamps. The plate is attached to a hinge, which carries a U shaped credit card retainer second element. A credit card is carried by the credit card retainer second element in between the two arms of the U shape. The interior surfaces of the arms of the U shape are rubberized, and apply compressive forces to the credit card, securing the card by friction. The hinge may be opened from the closed transpiration position to extend the credit card from the cell phone, and swiped in a swiping credit card reader, using the cell phone as a handle. The credit card may be extracted from the U shaped credit card retainer and used for manual imprint or with an automatic credit card reader, and replaced after use.
US07949370B1 Scanner for a mobile device
Systems, apparatuses, and methods for a scanning device for use with a mobile device are described herein. The scanning device may include an image capture module to capture surface images of a medium to be scanned and a positioning module to determine positioning information based at least in part on navigational images and the captured surface images. A mobile device may include one or more features of the scanning device including the image capture module and the positioning module. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
US07949367B2 Baseband signal input current splitter
A current steering mechanism is provided in a radio transmitter (e.g., a multiband radio transmitter) to provide compatibility with a variety of baseband parts. Different proportions of an input signal current (“in”) are steered to a dummy load, a mixer for a first band, and at least one other mixer for a second band. The mechanism is structured to selectively apportion a current input signal between multiple paths of the same polarity having respective load circuits and concurrently steer different proportions of the current input signal to a dummy load path and at least one mixer path.
US07949363B2 Methods and systems for efficient conveyance of bandclass information in wireless networks
Systems and methods are presented for efficiently conveying bandclass information between switching modules in a wireless communications system to facilitate call delivery or call origination. A compact bandclass information field is provided in inter-system paging and other non-handoff messages, in which each of a plurality of field bits indicates whether a particular bandclass is supported by a given mobile communications unit, thereby providing bandclass support information in an efficient manner to a recipient switching module.
US07949359B2 Methods and system for dynamically and anonymously linking wireless communications unit users
A system and method for wireless communications unit users within proximity to make social connections. Users can dynamically discover potential matches in the proximity and interactively find out mutual intentions to socially connect in an anonymous and discreet manner.
US07949338B2 System for managing a communication system
A system for managing a communication system is disclosed. A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a network management system having a network configuration element that identifies for each of a plurality of wireless base terminals (WBTs) a resultant communication path to a mobile telephone switching office (MTSO) according to a plurality of performance characteristics and a delay injected into at least one of a plurality of alternative communication paths connecting combinations of the WBTs to the MTSO. Additional embodiments are disclosed.
US07949337B2 System and method for cell reselection in a mobile communication network
A system and method for cell reselection in a radio communication network is provided. The system comprises a mobile terminal transmitting a receive signal strength list after measuring signal strengths of at least a neighbor cell; and a host system selecting a cell suitable for the mobile terminal based on a suitable cell list and the receive signal strength list and transmitting the cell reselection information to the mobile terminal. The suitable cell list comprises information representing whether or not the neighbor cell is suitable for selection by the mobile terminal.
US07949329B2 Network support for mobile handset anti-virus protection
Embodiments of the method and system provide network support for automatic anti-virus protection by a telecommunication network for mobile terminals. The method may have the steps of: storing in the telecommunication network at least one anti-virus protection level for at least one mobile terminal; initiating, by the telecommunication network, a call setup for a call associated with the mobile terminal, the call having a data stream; using, by the communication network, the at least one anti-virus protection level to recognize a virus in the data stream intended for the mobile handset; and filtering, by the network, the recognized virus from the data stream before the data stream arrives at the mobile terminal. The system implements the method.
US07949322B2 Frequency selective amplifier with wide-band impedance and noise matching
This disclosure is directed to a frequency-selective low noise amplifier (LNA) with wide-band impedance and noise matching. The LNAS may include a closed loop circuit that supports wideband input matching. For example, the closed loop circuit may be configure to impedance match an input signal and provide a low noise figure. In addition, the LNA may include an open loop circuit that amplifies the input signal and provides a high output impedance. The open loop circuit may further include a selectivity filter that filters out frequencies outside a desired frequency band. The LNA may drive a tunable band-pass filter via the open loop circuit.
US07949305B2 Method and system of modifying configuration settings of a device based on an estimated change in transmission traffic
A method of modifying a configuration setting of a portable communication device based on an estimated change in transmission traffic. The method includes monitoring radio frequency (RF) signals at a first portable communication device. The RF signals include signals communicated by one or more other communication devices. The method further includes measuring a first number of transmissions communicated by the RF signals during a first time window and measuring a second number of transmissions communicated by the RF signals during a second time window. The first number of transmissions is compared to the second number of transmissions to estimate a change in transmission traffic. A configuration setting of the first portable communication device is modified from a first setting to a second setting based on the estimated change in transmission traffic.
US07949297B2 Method and system for mobile receiver antenna architecture for handling various digital video broadcast channels
A method for an antenna architecture for handling various Digital Video Broadcast (DVB) channels may be provided. The method may comprise receiving, at a first circuit, a first signal within a 850 MHz band, a 1900 MHz band and/or a 2100 MHz band, wherein the first circuit is integrated within the mobile terminal and is operably coupled to a first antenna and/or a second antenna. Second signals within the 850 MHz band, the 1900 MHz band and/or the 2100 MHz band may be received at a second circuit, wherein the second circuit is integrated within the mobile terminal and is operably coupled to the first antenna. A video broadcast signal may be received at a third circuit, wherein the third circuit is integrated within the mobile terminal and is operably coupled to a third antenna.
US07949292B2 Hinge apparatus for cover of image forming apparatus
A hinge apparatus for a cover of an image forming apparatus has a hinge body with supporting brackets, movably inserted into a coupling hole positioned in a main body of the image forming apparatus, a hinge cam connected to the cover and pivotably connected to the supporting brackets, and a pressure device disposed at the hinge body to press the hinge cam. Accordingly, the hinge apparatus can be implemented with a simple and easy assembly operation, since it is not a complicated structural connection among the component parts of the hinge apparatus.
US07949284B2 Image forming apparatus
The present invention is intended to provide an image forming apparatus capable of producing high-quality images for a long period of time wherein the consumption of the opposite polarity particles is reduced, and a reduction in the amount of toner charge resulting from carrier deterioration is minimized, even if a great number of images having a low image area ratio were printed. This image forming apparatus is characterized in that the surface of an image carrying member, which is placed face to face with a toner carrying member, and on which an electrostatic latent image to be developed with the toner supported on the toner carrying member is formed, has an contact angle of 95 degrees or more with respect to pure water.
US07949279B2 Image forming apparatus and control method thereof
An image forming apparatus includes an input unit configured to input image data, an image processing unit configured to process the image data, a transfer unit configured to form a developer image corresponding to the processed image data and transfer the developer image onto a sheet, a fixing unit configured to fix the developer image, a conveyance unit configured to convey a plurality of sheets at predetermined conveying intervals to the transfer unit and the fixing unit, and a control unit configured to control the transfer unit and fixing unit such that a developer image corresponding to image data of a page is not transferred onto a sheet and the sheet is conveyed to the fixing unit if an image processing with respect to the image data of the page has not been completed.
US07949275B2 Cleaning device, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A cleaning device capable of inhibiting noise from being caused by stick-slip vibration between a blade member of the cleaning device and an image carrier, a process cartridge, and an image forming apparatus are provided. A vibration detecting device for detecting a vibration state is attached to a central part of a holder holding a blade member, and an excitation member for vibrating the blade member is attached to the blade member over the entire length thereof in a direction along a sliding contact surface contacting a photoreceptor.
US07949273B2 Fixing device, fixing device temperature control method and image forming apparatus
A fixing device has a heating roller and a pressurizing belt which convey the a recording material in mutual contact while fixing a toner on the recording material, a heater which heats the heating roller, a noncontact first thermister which detects a surface temperature of the heating roller in a position located apart from a surface of the heating roller, a pressurizing unit which is placed inside the pressurizing belt, a second thermister which detects a temperature of the pressurizing unit; and a control section which adjusts the surface temperature of the heating roller by controlling the heater on the basis of a detection temperature of the first thermister and a detection temperature of the second thermister. Thus, fixing device is capable of suppressing a temperature difference generated in noncontact temperature detecting sections and obtaining a stable fixed image performance.
US07949272B2 Image forming apparatus with control of a contact position of fixing and pressure rollers
A transfer unit transfers a toner image formed on an image carrier onto a recording medium. A fixing unit includes a fixing roller and a pressure roller for fixing the toner image onto the recording medium by applying heat and pressure to the recording medium. At least one driving unit drives the fixing roller and the pressure roller. When stopping the fixing roller, a control unit controls the driving unit to stop the fixing roller such that the fixing roller and the pressure roller make a contact with each other at a contact position different from a previous contact position.
US07949269B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a black image forming unit that can be used in a black monochrome mode to form supply toner images corresponding to color patches and cause the supply toner images to be carried by an intermediate transfer belt. During the black monochrome mode, a fur brush comes into contact with the supply toner images, so that discharge products are removed from the fur brush. Thus, when the black monochrome mode ends and a full-color mode is returned, the color patches transferred to a secondary transfer roller can be sufficiently removed by single passage and no backside contamination of a recording material occurs.
US07949267B2 Image forming apparatus having an adjustment unit for adjusting a contact state between two members
An image forming apparatus is provided that has a developing agent holder arranged as opposed to an image holder having an electrostatic latent image formed thereon, the developing agent holder attaching the developing agent to the image holder, a developing agent supplying unit rotatably arranged in contact with the developing agent holder, the developing agent supplying unit supplying a developing agent to the developing agent holder, an adjustment unit capable of adjusting a contacting state between the developing agent holder and the developing agent supplying unit.
US07949262B2 Space diversity receiver for optical communications
An optical beam combiner is provided, which allows efficient collection of light for various applications: non-line of sight and free-space optical communications, remote sensing, optical imaging and others. A multitude of transverse scattered optical beam portions is captured by the multi-aperture array positioned perpendicular to the beam projection direction. These beam portions are combined first into a single optical waveguide with modulating the beam portions phase and coupling ratio of directional couplers in the optical beam combiner tuned to maximize the final output power. A portion of the output beam is used for the power detection and forming a feedback signal for the phases and coupling ratios adjustment. The data is recovered from the received optical beam using coherent detection.
US07949255B2 System, device and method for transporting signals through passive optical network
A system for transporting signals through PON, including a device for transporting optical network signals and a device for transporting optical line signals, wherein: the device for transporting optical network signals is adapted to map upstream optical signals with a PON frame format to upstream optical channel data unit signals, to convert into upstream signals with an optical channel transport unit format, and to transport to the device for transporting optical line signals through OTN; and to perform corresponding downstream processing; the device for transporting optical line signals is adapted to convert the upstream signals into upstream optical channel data unit signals, to de-map to upstream optical signals with a PON frame format, and to transport to an optical line terminal; and to perform corresponding downstream processing. The invention further discloses relevant devices and methods.
US07949249B2 Software based photoflash synchronization of camera equipped portable media device and external lighting apparatus
Methods of using software to synchronize the control of a camera on portable media device with the photoflash on an external lighting apparatus.The Camera-Equipped Portable Media Device (CEPMD) utilizes an External Lighting Apparatus (ELA) as a light source to improve the lighting conditions for portable media device photography. Both ELA and CEPMD are controlled by software, which synchronize the photoflash image capture as well as post process the image to further enhance the image quality. Furthermore, in a preferred ELA embodiment, it acts as a protective case for the CEPMD.
US07949244B2 Method for measuring subject distance
An exemplary method for measuring a distance from a subject to a camera includes the following operations: focusing on the subject using the imaging system; illuminating an area on the subject using auxiliary light; capturing an image of the subject, the image having an illumination portion corresponding to the illuminated area; measuring the area of the illumination portion of the image; and calculating the subject distance based on the measured area.
US07949241B2 Anamorphic focal array
An imaging system includes an offset focal array including a plurality of photosensitive elements disposed at different focal lengths from at least one lens to output an image simulating an orthogonal view of an oblique coverage area. In further embodiments, the photosensitive elements are arranged in layers positioned substantially equal to the focal lengths of one or more focusing lenses.
US07949237B2 Heating configuration for use in thermal processing chambers
An apparatus for heat treating semiconductor wafers is disclosed. The apparatus includes a heating device which contains an assembly linear lamps for emitting light energy onto a wafer. The linear lamps can be placed in various configurations. In accordance with the present invention, tuning devices which are used to adjust the overall irradiance distribution of the light energy sources are included in the heating device. The tuning devices can be, for instance, are lamps or lasers.
US07949229B2 Discontinuous timeline in disc authoring
Synchronizing media data used in authoring a Blu-ray disc (BD) comprising: receiving a discontinuous input timecode associated with at least one stream of the media data, said discontinuous input timecode having at least one discontinuity, said at least one discontinuity having a start point and an end point; generating an output timecode that matches said discontinuous input timecode until the start point of said at least one discontinuity, and continue generating said output timecode sequentially from a timecode subsequent to the end point of said at least one discontinuity, if a user specifies a continuous output timecode; and generating an output timecode that matches said discontinuous input timecode until the start point of said at least one discontinuity, and continue generating said output timecode that matches input timecode from a timecode subsequent to the end point of said at least one discontinuity, if a user specifies a discontinuous output timecode.
US07949228B2 Information storage medium and information recording/playback system
There are provided an information storage medium capable of real-time recording/playback of digital moving picture information, and a digital information recording/playback system using this medium. In a medium that records/plays back data including video data and control information, the control information (DA21 in FIG. 4; RTR_VMG in FIG. 30) includes information (VOBU entry in FIG. 31) for accessing a specific portion (VOBU) of the video data.
US07949226B2 Information storage medium and information recording/playback system
There are provided an information storage medium capable of real-time recording/playback of digital moving picture information, and a digital information recording/playback system using this medium. In a medium that records/plays back data including video data and control information, the control information (DA21 in FIG. 4; RTR_VMG in FIG. 30) includes information (VOBU entry in FIG. 31) for accessing a specific portion (VOBU) of the video data.
US07949220B2 Hybrid optical/electrical mixed circuit board
The present invention provides a hybrid optical/electrical circuit board in which an optical waveguide prepared by an exposing and developing step is combined with an electric circuit, wherein a printed wiring board containing an inorganic filler and a light absorber is used, and it has an optical waveguide core pattern having a high resolution and makes it possible to raise a density of optical wiring.
US07949216B2 Bragg grating elements for optical devices
Three-dimensional holographic elements are disclosed. Three-dimensional Bragg gratings recorded on bulks of optical material are included in the disclosure. Such elements may be manufactured by placing a three-dimensional bulk of optical material directly behind a recorded master hologram, directing a reference beam onto a master hologram such that a replica of the master hologram is recorded in the optical material. The replica may form the three-dimensional holographic element. The master hologram may be Bragg grating formed on a surface of a transparent substrate.
US07949215B2 Apparatus for side fire fiber lasers
A fiber laser having at least one pair of reflectors coupled to an optical fiber, the at least one pair of reflectors defining an optical cavity between the at least one pair of reflectors and being configured to reflect light within the optical cavity. At least one light pump is coupled to the optical fiber and configured to provide pump light into the optical cavity, and at least one medium is positioned within the optical cavity and configured to generate signal light from the pump light in the optical cavity. Further, at least one grating positioned within the optical cavity and configured to couple the signal light out of the optical cavity.
US07949208B2 Monitor system, monitor device, search method, and search program
A search method is provided so that video data transmitted from an image-pickup unit of a monitor terminal is accumulated, meta data transmitted from a meta-data-generation unit of the monitor terminal is accumulated, search criteria are stored in advance, where the search criteria are used for extracting desired data from the video data and/or the meta data, the search criteria stored in advance are displayed, and meta data and/or video data satisfying a predetermined search criterion is extracted when the predetermined search criterion is selected from among the displayed search criteria, and the extracted meta data and/or the extracted video data is displayed.
US07949205B2 Image processing unit with fall-back
An image processing unit for computing a sequence of output images on basis of a sequence of input images, comprises: a motion estimation unit for computing a motion vector field on basis of the input images; a quality measurement unit for computing a value of a quality measure for the motion vector field; an interpolation unit for computing the output images by means of interpolation of pixel values of the input images, on basis of the motion vector field; and control means to control the interpolation unit on basis of the quality measure. The quality measurement unit is arranged to compute the value of the quality measure on basis of a maximum difference between neighboring motion vectors. If the value of the quality measure is lower than a predetermined threshold, then a motion compensated interpolation is performed, else a non-motion compensated interpolation is performed.
US07949203B2 Geospatial modeling system providing void inpainting based upon selectable inpainting functions and related methods
A geospatial modeling system may include a geospatial model data storage device and a processor. The processor may cooperate with the geospatial model data storage device for selecting and transforming a reference sample of a geospatial model frequency domain data set into a corresponding reference sample geospatial model spatial domain data set, and inpainting data into at least one void of the geospatial model frequency domain data set based upon an initial selected inpainting function from among a plurality of different inpainting functions. The processor may further select and transform a test sample of the inpainted geospatial model frequency domain data set into a corresponding test sample geospatial model spatial domain data set, and compare the reference sample geospatial model spatial domain data set and the test sample geospatial model spatial domain data set to determine whether to repeat the inpainting using a different inpainting function from among the plurality thereof.
US07949200B2 Image processing apparatus, display device, and image processing method
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus includes an obtaining module, a coefficient filter, a large area filter, and a determination module. The obtaining module obtains a feature value indicating an image structure of a pixel block comprising a target pixel to be processed and a surrounding pixel neighboring the target pixel in an input image. The coefficient filter performs filtering on the pixel block using a filter coefficient corresponding to the feature value. The large area filter performs smoothing on a pixel block that are larger than blocks used with coefficient filter. The determination module determines to cause the large area filter to perform the smoothing when the image structure indicated by the feature value is smooth.
US07949195B2 Per block breakpoint determining for hybrid variable length coding
A method, and apparatus, and logic encoded in one or more computer-readable tangible medium to carry out a method. The method is to code an ordered sequence of quantized transform coefficients of a block of image data using a hybrid coding method that includes determining a breakpoint location in the sequence between a low frequency region and a high frequency region; coding the low-frequency region using a selected low-frequency variable length coding method; coding the high-frequency region using a selected high-frequency variable length coding method; and coding the location of the breakpoint. The breakpoint location is determined as a function of the sequence such that different sequences can have different breakpoints.
US07949185B2 Method of performing robust auto white balance
Disclosed herein is a method of performing robust white balance. The method includes a first process of dividing an input image into blocks, a second process of selecting blocks having higher color errors, and calculating average RGB values of the selected blocks, a third process of selecting a specific top percentage of bright blocks, and calculating the average RGB values of these selected blocks, a fourth process of calculating average RGB values through color clustering, a fifth process of converting the average RGB values into CIE xyY color space, a sixth process of calculating the Euclidean distances between the x and y values of standard light sources in a color space and the x and y values of the average RGB values in CIE xyY color space, and selecting an average RGB value having the shortest Euclidean distance (Ed), and a seventh process of calculating white balance gain values using the selected average RGB value, and correcting the input image using the balance gain values.
US07949184B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and computer readable medium and computer data signal for processing image
An image processing apparatus includes: a unit producing a histogram in a color space from an input image; a unit extracting a plurality of peak colors having a local maximum frequency of appearance of a color value in the histogram; a unit determining whether to unify the extracted plurality of peak colors, based on a feature amount of the extracted plurality of peak colors, and selecting a peak color as a representative color when the extracted plurality of peak colors are unified, the feature amount being a lightness difference among the extracted plurality of peak colors and directions of vectors in the color space, the vectors each showing a shortest distance from one of the extracted plurality of peak colors to a line segment connecting between a reference color and a dark color; and a unit replacing a color of each pixel in the input image by the representative color.
US07949183B2 Methods and apparatus for enhancing color data
In one embodiment, an image processor may be used to manipulate a hue value to obtain an updated hue value, manipulate a saturation value to obtain an updated saturation value based on the updated hue value and the saturation value, and if updated pixel data including the updated hue value and the updated saturation value is an illegal value, adjust a luma value. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US07949165B2 Method for determining a temporal profile of a probability distribution with local three-dimensional resolution for the presence of a substance in a vascular system
The invention relates to a method for determining a probability distribution with local three-dimensional resolution for a substance in a vascular system. An acquisition time is assigned to a group of x-ray images showing a presence distribution with local 2D resolution for a substance in the vascular system at the acquisition time. A first preliminary presence probability distribution is determined using the x-ray images assigned to the acquisition time and a volume data set of the vascular system. A second preliminary presence probability distribution is determined using the presence probability distribution for the preceding acquisition time and a migration probability distribution with the substance migrating from first vascular locations to second vascular locations. A high individual probability to vascular locations is assigned if both preliminary presence probability distributions have a high probability value for the respective vascular location. Otherwise a lower and greater than zero individual probability is assigned.
US07949161B2 Microscope system and method for synthesizing microscopic images
An obtainment unit obtains microscopic images in a time series obtained by picking up images of a specimen as a motion image and also obtains microscope information that is information correlated with each of the microscopic images and the information that indicates an observation state of the microscope when the microscopic image has been picked up. An image synthesis unit synthesizes individual microscopic images constituting the motion image based on position information which is included in the microscope information and which indicate positions of the specimen when the microscopic image has been picked up, thereby synthesizing a wider view image than the microscopic image.
US07949160B2 Imaging apparatus and imaging method
In executing projection processing for the purpose of enhancing the efficiency of diagnosis, if a threshold is reached again after a specific value of a pixel reaches the threshold in the x direction in which tomographic planes are arrayed, the execution of the projection processing is ended, and a projected image is generated. Then, in generating that projected image by executing projection processing, tomograms are so synthesized with the projected image that the positions of the pixels projected in the x direction and the pixels of the tomograms generated in the x direction match each other in the scanned three-dimensional area of the subject, and the synthesized images are thereby generated.
US07949159B2 Solid-state imaging device, imaging method and imaging system
A solid-state imaging device includes a semiconductor substrate, a light receiving portion, and a spacer. The solid-state imaging device photoelectrically converts light incident from an object to be imaged upon a light incidence surface in the light receiving portion provided in the semiconductor substrate, thereby acquiring an image of the object to be imaged based on a magnitude of an electric charge generated through the photoelectric conversion. On a part of the light incidence surface, the spacer is provided. The spacer prevents the object to be imaged from contacting the light incidence surface.
US07949155B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and storage medium
An image processing apparatus includes image memory that stores an image; character recognition rate acquisition unit that segments the image stored in the image memory into a plurality of partial images and acquiring a character recognition rate for each partial image; image quality assessment unit that calculates a parameter showing the image quality of the image based on the character recognition rates of the plural partial images acquired by the character recognition rate acquisition unit; and output unit that outputs assessment results obtained by the image quality assessment unit.
US07949154B2 Method and system for associating source information for a source unit with a product converted therefrom
The invention provides a method and system having a computer system and imaging sensors that capture image data of an object, such as a carcass, as it moves through a processing facility and is converted into individual food products. The computer system analyzes the image data to produce a blob for the object being monitored. Source information that is referenced with the object being monitored can be associated with the object's blob. The blob can be used to track and identify the object, and to determine when one or more additional objects have been converted from the object being monitored. The computer system can create blobs for the additional objects and associate the referenced information with the new blobs. In one embodiment, the computer system is capable of continuously associating the source information for a particular source unit of food with converted food products that are converted from the source unit.
US07949153B2 Image processing system, image processing method, image processing program, image capturing apparatus, and image capturing method
An image processing is performed based on a distance computed for each partial area within an image capturing range. An image processing system according to the present invention includes a captured image acquiring section that acquires a captured image taken by an image capturing apparatus, a distance information acquiring section that acquires subject distance information that is information indicative of a distance between the image capturing apparatus and a subject for each of a plurality of partial areas in the captured image acquired by the captured image acquiring section, and an image processing section that performs an image processing different from one another on each of the plurality of partial areas in the captured image acquired by the captured image acquiring section according to the subject distance information acquired by the distance information acquiring section.
US07949147B2 Watermarking compressed data
A method of embedding auxiliary data in coefficients generated for a compressed data stream applies embedding rules to selected coefficients in different blocks to embed the data. The method receives coefficients in a data stream in which the coefficients are divided into blocks. It changes the value of selected coefficients to embed multi-bit message data in the coefficients. The process of changing the coefficients includes controlling changes to the selected coefficients from different blocks so that the relationship of the selected coefficients from the different blocks satisfy an embedding rule. One embedding rule causes the embedded data to form a pattern across the blocks. Another rule causes coefficients of blocks to have a desired phase relationship. Another rule enforces entropy and/or bit rate constraints onto the data stream. These embedding rules facilitate data hiding within bit rate and perceptibility constraints, while increasing robustness.
US07949141B2 Processing audio signals with head related transfer function filters and a reverberator
A method, an apparatus, and a software product to process a plurality of input audio signals. The apparatus accepts a plurality of input signals and includes a multi-input, multi-output reverberator arranged to generate a set of output signals including delayed reverberation components simulating the reverberations a listener is likely to hear in a listening environment. The apparatus further includes a multi-input, two-output filter accepting the outputs of the reverberator and the plurality of input terminals, providing outputs for the left and right ears, and configured to implement a set of head related transfer functions corresponding to a listening environment and a set of directions of a listener in the listening environment. The apparatus is such that a listener listening to the outputs through headphones has the sensation of listening to the plurality of input audio signals as if they are emanating from a plurality of loudspeakers spatially located in the listening environment at a corresponding plurality of directions.
US07949139B2 Technique for subwoofer distance measurement
The present invention automatically corrects for subwoofer or other speaker crossover settings or other parameters by providing an adjustable factor passed upon not only pulse location, but on pulse width. In FIG. 2, as the low-pass frequency of the subwoofer is decreased, either by the crossover setting or the physical design of the subwoofer, the impulse response is shifted to the right and the width of the impulse increases. By relating the adjustment factor to the width of the impulse, the accuracy of the computed distance is greatly increased. The relation may be found doing a simple polynomial curve fitting to empirical data from several subwoofers at various crossover settings and distances, storing that data, and then measuring pulse location and width of the actual subwoofer during the setup routine, and adjusting the distance (delay) calculations accordingly.
US07949138B2 Secure instant messaging
Secure instant messaging is described. In an embodiment, a messaging device encrypts a challenge identifier to generate an encrypted challenge message, and communicates the encrypted challenge message via a peer-to-peer communication link to a recipient messaging device. The recipient messaging device decrypts the encrypted challenge message and encrypts the challenge identifier as a return challenge identifier to generate an encrypted challenge return. The messaging device receives the encrypted challenge return from the recipient messaging device, decrypts the encrypted challenge return, and verifies that the return challenge identifier matches the challenge identifier to establish that communications are secure when communicated via the peer-to-peer communication link and, optionally, to establish control policies pertaining to a communication received at the recipient messaging device.
US07949128B2 Method and device for the encryption and decryption of data
Method for the encryption of data as well as a corresponding decryption method are set forth. In order to guarantee a secure transmission of data with relatively little effort, an encryption method is provided in which a key vector with a second length is generated from a secret key information vector with a short length and a public matrix with a size corresponding to the first length times a second length, which is greater than the first size, and in which an encryption vector is formed by means of a first encryption method from a data vector with a third length, which is less than or equal to the second length, and the key vector.
US07949127B2 Headset
A headset (1. 10. 30) e.g. for use in connection with wireless communication. The housing may be constructed as two shells (2, 3) which may be opened and closed so that all mechanical parts may be concealed on the housing when the headset (1, 10, 30) is not in use. The shells (2, 3) may be interconnected by means of a hinge (7, 8) which has an axis disposed in the same plane as the surface of the shells. Alternatively, the shells may be arranged such that the axis is disposed in a perpendicular plane. The headset (1, 10, 30) has all mechanical and electrical parts are well protected when the headset is not used.
US07949126B2 Unsplit bipolar pulse forming line
A bipolar pulse forming transmission line module and system for linear induction accelerators having first, second, third, and fourth planar conductors which form a sequentially arranged interleaved stack having opposing first and second ends, with dielectric layers between the conductors. The first and second planar conductors are connected to each other at the first end, and the first and fourth planar conductors are connected to each other at the second end via a shorting plate. The third planar conductor is electrically connectable to a high voltage source, and an internal switch functions to short at the first end a high voltage from the third planar conductor to the fourth planar conductor to produce a bipolar pulse at the acceleration axis with a zero net time integral. Improved access to the switch is enabled by an aperture through the shorting plate and the proximity of the aperture to the switch.
US07949124B2 Information processing apparatus, control method for the same, program and storage medium
An information processing apparatus that generates private information used as one of an encryption key for encrypting data or a generation key for generating falsification detection information used in detecting falsification of data, comprises a storage unit adapted to prestore key information, an input unit adapted to input calculation target information, a calculating unit adapted to perform a calculation on targeted information based on the key information held in the storage unit, a detecting unit adapted to detect a predetermined event, and a control unit adapted, when triggered by detection of the event by the detecting unit, to perform controls to generate the private information by making the calculating unit perform the calculation with the input calculation target information as the targeted information, and to place the key information stored in the storage unit in an unusable state.
US07949108B2 Modem and method for switching operation modes thereof
A modem (10) includes a signal tuner module (101), a signal processing module (103), and a mode switching module (105). The signal tuner module receives a radio frequency (RF) signal in a first operation mode, and converts the RF signal to an intermediate frequency (IF) signal according to the first operation mode. The signal processing module processes the IF signal to generate an error rate according to the first operation mode. The mode switching module determines whether the first operation mode is right according to the error rate, and switches from the first operation mode to a second operation mode when the first operation mode is not right. A method for switching operation modes thereof is also provided.
US07949107B2 Method, system, and computer program product for providing privacy measures in instant messaging systems
The present invention provides privacy measures in instant messaging systems. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: setting a time-out value for a message; sending the message to a receiving user; and displaying the message to the receiving user only for a time period equal to the time-out value. In another embodiment, a stealth delivery mode is provided in which an IM message is displayed to the receiving user only if the receiving user has approved the display of the IM message. In a further embodiment, a predetermined number of elements received prior to a current IM message are displayed in the conversation pane of an IM client, based on a threshold value.
US07949105B2 Method and system for multimodal presence detection
Methods and systems for operating a communication module is disclosed. Generally, a fingerprint authentication device coupled with a communication module biometrically authenticates a user. The communication module sends an indication that the communication module is active for the user to receive a message based on the biometric authentication of the user. The communication module receives a message for the user that has been routed to the communication module based on the indication that the communication module is active for the user to receive a message.
US07949096B2 Path planning and collision avoidance for movement of instruments in a radiation therapy environment
A patient positioning system for use with a radiation therapy system that monitors the location of fixed and movable components and pre-plans movement of the movable components so as to inhibit movement if a collision would be indicated. The positioning system can also coordinate movement of multiple movable components for reduced overall latency in registering a patient. The positioning system includes external measurement devices which measure the location and orientation of objects, including components of the radiation therapy system, in space and can also monitor for intrusion into the active area of the therapy system by personnel or foreign objects to improve operational safety of the radiation therapy system.
US07949093B2 X-ray fluorescence spectrometer
An X-ray fluorescence spectrometer for measuring the concentration of sulfur contained in a sample (S), by irradiating the sample (S) with primary X-rays from an X-ray tube (11), monochromating fluorescent X-rays emitted from the sample (S) with a spectroscopic device, and detecting monochromated fluorescent X-rays with an X-ray detector. The spectrometer includes the X-ray tube (11) having a target with an element including chromium, an X-ray filter (13) disposed on a path of travel of X-rays between the X-ray tube (11) and the sample (S) and having a predetermined transmittance for Cr—Kα line from the X-ray tube (11) and made of a material which is an element of which absorption edges do not exist between energies of S—Kα line and Cr—Kα line, and a proportional counter (18) having a detector gas containing a neon gas or a helium gas.
US07949092B2 Device and method for performing X-ray analysis
The invention relates to a device for performing X-ray analysis. Device 1 comprises an X-ray tube 2 and at least one capillary lens 4 for focusing the X-rays in a micro-region at a location 5 for a sample for analysis. Device 1 further comprises a detector 6 for detecting X-ray fluorescence from the sample. Device 1 further comprises at least one energy-dependent filter 3 placed between the X-ray tube 2 and the capillary lens 4. The filter 3 is adapted to substantially block X-rays with an energy which is lower than a predetermined threshold value.
US07949089B2 Apparatus and method for tracking feature's position in human body
A CT scanner for scanning a subject is provided, the scanner comprising: a gantry capable of rotating about a scanned subject; at least two cone beam X-Ray sources displaced from each other mounted on said gantry; at least one 2D detector array mounted on said gantry, said detector is capable of receiving radiation emitted by said at least two X-Ray sources and attenuated by the subject to be scanned; a first image processor capable of generating and displaying CT images of a volume within the subject; a second image processor capable of generating projection X-Ray images of said volume, wherein the images are responsive to X-Ray separately emitted by each of said at least two cone beam X-Ray sources; and a third image processor capable of generating and displaying fluoroscopic images composed of said projection X-Ray images, wherein said fluoroscopic images are spatially registered to said CT images.
US07949085B2 Stressless shift register
A shift register unit includes a plurality of register units electrically coupled in cascade. Each register unit outputs an output pulse according to a first clock signal, a second clock signal and an output pulse of a previous register unit. Each register unit includes a first switch unit, a second switch unit, a third switch unit, a fourth switch unit, and a driving unit. The first switch unit is used for conducting the input pulse to a first node when the first switch is turned on. The second switch unit is used for conducting the output pulse of the register unit according to the first clock signal to an output end when the second switch unit is turned on in response to the input pulse. The third switch unit electrically coupled to a supply end is used for conducting a supply voltage to the output end when the second switch unit is turned off. The fourth switch unit electrically coupled to the supply end is used for conducting the supply voltage to the first node when the fourth switch unit is turned on in response to a driving pulse. The driving unit is used for providing the driving pulse according to the first clock signal, the second clock signal, and the input pulse.
US07949083B2 Clock synchroniser
A clock synchronizer for generating a local clock signal synchronized to a received clock signal. The clock synchronizer incorporates a reference oscillator providing a reference signal, and a synthesizer circuit arranged to synthesize a local clock signal from the reference signal. The synthesizer circuit comprises a phase-locked-loop circuit, including a phase detector receiving the reference signal, and a controllable divider arranged in a feedback path from a controlled oscillator to the phase detector, the divider being controllable to set a frequency division value N along the path to determine a ratio of the local clock frequency to the reference frequency. The clock synchronizer also incorporates a clock comparison circuit adapted to generate a digital signal indicative of an asynchronism between the local and received clock signals. A control link is arranged to link the clock comparison circuit to the divider. This link receives the digital signal and provides a control signal to the divider to adjust the frequency division value N according to the digital signal, to alter the local clock frequency and reduce the asynchronism.
US07949077B2 Response probability calculating device and method, and base station control device and communication system using the same
There is provided a response probability calculating method for use in a communication system in which a response probability is sent from a communication network to a plurality of terminals, and the terminals report terminal information to the communication network according to the response probability, including a step of selecting a first calculation formula for monotonously increasing the response probability or a second calculation formula for calculating the response probability using the response probability sent at the previous time and the previous number of responses in accordance with the number of responses from the terminals, and a step of calculating the response probability in accordance with the selected calculation formula.
US07949075B2 Data slicer circuit, demodulation stage, receiving system and method for demodulating shift key coded signals
The invention relates to a data slicer circuit for processing a voltage signal input having two voltage values, each value representative of a value assigned to one characteristic of a modulated baseband carrier signal corresponding to a binary one or zero bit of information, the data slicer comprising first means for detecting a rising transition segment of the voltage signal, first means for detecting a falling transition segment of the voltage signal, means for providing a first serial digital signal output with a binary zero value if a rising transition segment of the voltage signal is detected or a binary one value if a falling transition segment of the voltage signal is detected or vice versa.
US07949074B2 Apparatus and method for decoding in a hierarchical, modulation system
A satellite receiver receives a hierarchical modulation based received signal, which has at least an upper layer (UL) and a lower layer (LL), and simultaneously recovers therefrom data conveyed in the UL signal and data conveyed in the LL signal.
US07949072B2 Local oscillator with injection pulling suppression and spurious products filtering
A single sideband mixer circuit includes a voltage controlled oscillator operable a tunable frequency f1. The mixer circuit outputs a frequency signal at a frequency f1±f2. A tracking filter operates to filter the frequency signal and generate a first output signal at the frequency f1±f2. A resonance frequency fr of the tracking filter is tunable to substantially match the frequency f1±f2 of the frequency signal. The output signal of the tracking filter may be processed by a phase lock loop circuit to generate a control signal for controlling the setting of the tunable frequency f1 and resonance frequency fr. Alternatively, the output signal of the tracking filter may be divided and the divided signal processed by a phase lock loop circuit to generate the control signal for controlling setting of the tunable frequency f1 and resonance frequency fr.
US07949065B2 Radio transmission with variable length of guard interval
Information, in particular OFDM-symbols, is transmitted via radio from an emitting unit to a receiving unit. At least one first symbol has a first total length, which includes a first time section during which first user data is transmitted and a second time section during which cyclic repetitions of the first user data are transmitted. Also, at least one second symbol has the first total length which includes a third time section, having a length different than the first time section, during which second user data is transmitted, and a fourth time section, having a length different than the second time section, during which cyclic repetitions of the second user data is transmitted.
US07949063B2 Method and apparatus for impairment correlation estimation in MIMO systems
The teachings herein disclose methods and apparatus that simplify impairment correlation estimation for received signal processing, based on determining, for any given processing interval, which impairment contributors should be considered in the estimation of overall received signal impairment correlations. These simplifications reduce computational processing requirements, allowing reduced circuit complexity and/or reduced operating power, and improve receiver performance. A corresponding transmitter and transmission method include transmitting multiple information streams to targeted receivers according to ongoing scheduling, and controlling the ongoing scheduling to reduce the number of impairment contributors considered in impairment correlation estimation at the targeted receivers. In one embodiment, a receiver identifies which impairment contributors to consider based on receiving control information. In another embodiment, the receiver identifies the impairment contributors to consider based on background processing, e.g., background determination of parametric model fitting parameters for a plurality of impairment contributors, and observing those model fitting parameters over time.
US07949042B2 Image searching device and method, program and program recording medium
An encoded code stream is searched for a frame generally coincident with a specific frame without having to decoding the frame to its original image. The present invention provides an image search device that searches an object encoded code stream formed by compression coding of a plurality of frames for a frame generally coincident with a specific one, which includes a decoder for making entropy decoding of the object encoded code stream to generate quantization coefficients of each frame, a matching unit for making matching between the quantization coefficients of the specific frame and those of each frame which are generated by the decoder and correspond in sample position to those of the specific frame, and a judging unit for judging, based on the result of matching, whether the frame is generally coincident with the specific one.
US07949040B2 Reception quality measuring apparatus and reception quality measuring method
A reception quality measuring apparatus of the present invention comprises a first sub-carrier averaging unit for averaging and outputting a channel gain after equalization estimated on the basis of the pilot signal over a sub-carrier, a first power calculation unit for calculating the power of a signal output from the first sub-carrier averaging unit and outputting the same as signal power, a pilot replica generator for generating and outputting a pilot signal replica with respect to a zero-timing signal component based on the zero-timing signal component when a signal x(n) in the time domain after equalization corresponding to the equalized signal is n=0, and also based on a previously set pilot code characteristic, a subtractor for subtracting the pilot signal replica output from the pilot replica generator from the equalized signal and outputting the result as an interference signal, a second power calculation unit for calculating and outputting the power of the interference signal output from the subtractor, a second sub-carrier averaging unit for averaging the power output from the second power calculation unit over the sub-carrier and outputting the result as interference power, and a divider for dividing the signal power output from the first power calculation unit by the interference power output from the second sub-carrier averaging unit to calculate a reception quality after equalization.
US07949037B2 Base station for carrier offset recovery
A base station for carrier offset recovery. An adaptive matched filter produces a filtered signal. A rake receiver provides relative path values of multipath components. A mixer generates channel impulse response estimates. A channel despreader despreads the filtered signal using the pseudo-noise signal generated to produce a despread channel signal of the selected channel. A pilot channel despreader despreads the filtered signal using a pseudo-noise signal generator to produce a despread pilot signal of the pilot channel. A hard decision processor determines a symbol value of the despread channel signal. A complex conjugate processor generates a complex conjugate of the symbol value as a correction signal. A phase-locked loop produces a phase correction signal to recover carrier offset.
US07949032B1 Methods and apparatus for masking and securing communications transmissions
A secure information transmission system includes one or more transmitters and one or more receivers. The transmission waveform employed includes highly randomized, independent stochastic processes, and is secured as a separate entity from the information it carries. The signal, using novel modulation methodology reducing impulse responses, has a paucity of spectral information and may be detected, acquired and demodulated only by communicants generating the necessary receiving algorithm coefficients. The physical area of signal reception is restricted to that of each intended communicant, reception areas following movements of mobile communicants. A unique instant in time is used as basis for communications keys to the securing algorithms dynamically generated on a one-time basis and never exchanged or stored by communicants. Technology is applicable to both fixed and mobile communications and may be applied to communications systems using wireless, fiber-optic, copper, acoustic and any other man-made or naturally occurring transmission media.
US07949024B2 Multibeam arrays of optoelectronic devices for high frequency operation
A VCSEL array device formed of a monolithic array of VCSELs and short circuited mesas is disclosed. The VCSELs can be spaced symmetrically or asymmetrical, in a manner to improve power or speed, or in phase and in parallel. The VCSELs are connected to a first metal contact pad formed on a heat-spreading substrate. The short-circuited mesas are formed alongside the VCSELs and are bonded to and form a short circuit to a second metal contact pad on the grounding substrate. Each VCSEL is encompassed by a thick metal heat sink to increase the height of VCSEL mesas. The structure of the heat sink, the VCSELs and the shorting mesas reduce parasitic impedance thereby increasing output power and high frequency response. The VCSELs and shorting mesas can be packaged as a coplanar waveguide in a ground-signal-ground configuration that improves signal modulation characteristics.
US07949015B2 Clock skew compensation
A method and arrangement in a receiving communication device for compensating for the difference between the clock-frequency controlled sample rate of the receiving device and the sample rate of a sending communication device. The sending device transmits packets comprising M audio samples to be stored in a buffer in the receiving device accommodating at least 2·M samples before play-out. An estimation of the clock skew is continuously updated from a calculated accumulated difference between an expected and an actual point of time of reception of the M audio samples. Before play-out, an adjusted number N of audio samples to be read from the buffer before play-out is calculated using the estimated clock skew. Thereafter, the N audio samples are resampled by interpolation to M audio samples to play-out.
US07948994B2 Method and apparatus for routing and forwarding between virtual routers within a single network element
A method and apparatus for routing and forwarding between virtual routers is described. A method in a single network element comprises peering a first virtual router to a second virtual router, wherein the first and second virtual routers have separate address spaces and separate routing tables, distributing a set of one or more routes from the first virtual router to the second virtual router, wherein a first of the set of routes identifies the first virtual router as a next hop of the first route, said first route including a destination, and downloading to a set of one or more forwarding tables, the destination and the next hop.
US07948990B2 Control decisions in a communication system
A method, system, network and gateway of deciding a policy for controlling communications in a communication system are disclosed. The method comprises determining the type of an access network associated with communications via a gateway. In a further step, a policy to apply to communications via the gateway is decided based on information regarding the type of the access network.
US07948989B2 Methods and systems for enhancing local repair in robust header compression
Methods and systems to enhance local repair in robust header compression (RoHC) decompressors (110, 114), which may improve network transmission efficiency and quality. One method uses lower layer information to enhance local repair at the decompressor (110, 114). Another method uses a user datagram protocol (UDP) checksum to enhance local repair at the decompressor (110, 114).
US07948968B2 Network session management
A communication system providing telephony communication across combined circuit switched and packet switched networks, such as a telephone network and the Internet, which are connectable to terminals, such as telephones and computers, for selective communication therebetween. The communication system includes an authorization and account control object in the packet switched network, multiple gateways between the circuit switched and packet switched networks providing controlled connectivity between those networks, and an information retrieval object in the packet switched network, wherein the authorization and account control object maintains a substantially real time record of user accounts and usage, and the information and retrieval object provides substantially real time retrieval of selected information from the authorization and account control object. The retrieval object provides on demand to terminals which provide authentication for access to an identified account information regarding that account. The information regarding the account is substantially real time information including information with respect to communications in progress, which are chargeable to the account which has been authenticated. The authorization and account control object is preferably a unitary logical object having distributed instances thereof handling multitudinous accounts of widely separated terminals. The retrieval object provides isolation of the authorization and account control object permitting simultaneous multitasking by the authorization and account control object and the retrieval object respectively.
US07948955B2 Subscription method and device
A subscription method and device based upon the session initiation protocol are disclosed, such that a function of permanent subscription and temporary subscription is achieved, and a time at which a notification is sent can be customized. In the present invention, a mechanism of permanent subscription and temporary subscription is introduced. Upon reception of a SUBSCRIBE message, a notifier sets a temporary subscription flag or a permanent subscription flag for a subscriber according to an identifier carried in the message or service characteristic corresponding to a subscribed event. In the case of the permanent subscription flag, a NOTIFY message from the notifier is continuously sent until the subscriber or the system revokes subscription, and in the case of the temporary subscription flag, the notifier no longer sends a NOTIFY message upon finishing of a subscribed service. The subscriber may also carry a parameter indicative of a start time at which subscription gets validated and/or a parameter indicative of a time at which a notification is sent in the SUBSCRIBE message sent to the notifier. The notifier parses the message and sends the NOTIFY message to the subscriber when the start time at which subscription gets validated is reached and/or according to the time at which a notification is sent.
US07948952B2 Controlling services in a packet data network
A method and system controls services in a packet data based communication network comprising terminal devices and service entities. In response to a change detected in the state of a connection between a terminal device and a gateway node, a service policy request for the terminal device is sent from the gateway node to a session control means. Service policies including service information indicating which service entities and in which order are to be utilized for providing services to the terminal device, are generated. Service policies are sent to the gateway node. At the service entities, services are provided.
US07948948B2 Base band processing module N+M backup method based on switching and device thereof
The present invention discloses a base band processing module N+M backup method based on switch, is characterized in that: a switch unit is added between RF transceiver unit and base band processing unit, and IQ signal forwarding between base band processing modules of the base band processing unit and RF transceiver modules of the RF transceiver unit is performed by the switch unit; handing over the functions of the base band processing module in trouble to a backup base band processing module by resetting the switch unit and modifying the path of receiving and transmitting IQ signal, therefore realizing the N+M backup for base band processing module. The present invention can effectively realize the N+M backup for the base band processing module by adding a switch unit, therefore solving the technical problem of complexity and high cost for wiring and interfacing when having a large number of BBP and TRX modules.
US07948947B2 Handoff method in FMIPv6 for seamless TCP packet transmissions
A handoff apparatus and method in FMIPv6 for seamless TCP packet transmissions. The handoff method includes steps of intercepting by a previous access router certain TCP packets sent from a correspondent node to a previous temporary address of a mobile node; and creating a TCP ACK by the previous access router in response to the certain TCP packets and sending by the previous access router the created TCP ACK to the correspondent node every time the certain TCP packets are forwarded to a new access router through a bi-directional tunnel. The handoff method has an advantage in that the packet transmission rate can be secured at the same level as the mobile node stays still during the performance of the handoff of the mobile node since the previous access router instead of the mobile node creates and sends the TCP ACK to the correspondent node during the performance of the handoff of the mobile node.
US07948939B2 Method and apparatus to perform synchronization in an AD-HOC network
A wireless communication system in which each of communication stations performs networking operation in an autonomous, distributed manner, wherein each of the communication stations gathers information indicative of a band use situation in peripheral stations, grasps bands usable and unusable by the own station from the gathered information to set a band to be actually used by the own station, and mutually recognize bands to be used and unusable by the own station by informing to the peripheral stations.
US07948902B1 Method of generating packets without repetition in verification of a device
In the present method for use in verification of a device, a plurality of injection flags are provided, each of which is associated with one of a plurality of packet classes. Each injection flag may be of a first or a second state. Next, a packet is generated. If the injection flag of the packet class of the generated packet is in the second state, it is indicated that a packet of that packet class has already been generated, and the device is not tested. If the injection flag of the packet class of the generated packet is in the first state, the device is tested and the injection flag of the packet class of the generated packet is set to the second state. The process is repeated, the running of subsequent tests being determined by the state of the injection flag of the packet class of the generated packet.
US07948896B2 Weighted-fair-queuing relative bandwidth sharing
A network device for scheduling packets in a plurality of queues. The network device includes a plurality of configurable mechanisms, each of which is configured to process information in one of a plurality of queues based on a predefined bandwidth. A scheduler services an associated one of the plurality of queues based on the predefined bandwidth. The network device also includes means for tracking whether or not the plurality of queues has exceeded a predefined threshold. If the plurality of queues has exceeded the predefined threshold, a new bandwidth allocation is calculated for each of the plurality of queues. The new bandwidth allocation replaces the predefined bandwidth and is proportional to the predefined bandwidth for each of the plurality of queues.
US07948873B2 Method for recovery of a controlled failover of a border gateway protocol speaker
A method and apparatus for recovering from a controlled failover of a BGP speaker is provided. A user sends, to a network element, a request to switch a designation of an active Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) speaker of the network element from a first BGP speaker to a second BGP speaker. After receiving the request, the network element pauses operation of a transport for BGP. Routing data, which describes a state of a first routing information base (RIB) maintained by the active BGP speaker, is transferred from the first BGP speaker to the second BGP speaker. Thereafter, the first BGP speaker may instruct the second BGP speaker to become the active BGP speaker. After the second BGP speaker becomes the active BGP speaker, the second BGP speaker resumes operation of the BGP transport.
US07948867B2 Program reception/execution apparatus that can commence execution of a machine program having only received the program in part, and a program transmission apparatus that enables such execution
When a program transmission apparatus divides a program into a plurality of partial programs before transmission, a program reception execution apparatus executes a partial program when the partial program has already been received, and, when the execution needs to proceed to from a present partial program to a next partial program, executes the other partial program when the next partial program has been received.
US07948862B2 Crosstalk cancellation using sliding filters
A crosstalk cancellation system and method is disclosed for use in a multi-channel communication system. Crosstalk which couples between channels is cancelled through use of an in-line FFE filter and in-line delay. A cross-connect system associated with each channel includes a cross-connect delay and cross-connect filter. The cross-connect system generates a cancellation signal for each of the channels, which is routed into a junction. The junction subtracts the cancellation signal from the received signal, which has also been delayed and filtered, to remove unwanted cross-talk. During training, cancellation magnitude is monitored at various delay offsets to determine which offset and corresponding filter coefficients, for each delay, maximizes cancellation. The filters are set with filter coefficients that maximize cancellation. The cross-connect delay with the maximum offset is set to zero and its calculated offset amount is established as the in-line delay offset. The other cross-connect delay offsets are adjusted accordingly.
US07948861B2 Optical disk and recording method of visible figures into optical disk
Multicolor characters or pictures are written in an optical disk in a visible manner. The optical disk comprises a figure writing layer for writing a visible figure in addition to a data recording layer for recording data. Recording of user data in the data recording layer and the writing of a visible figure in the figure writing layer are performed using the same optical disk drive. In one example, the figure writing layer comprises phase change layers that are formed via protection layers in a region sandwiched between a pair of reflective layers. By writing figure data separated into individual basic colors in the phase change layers individually, a multicolor figure can be made visible.
US07948860B2 Optical recording medium, manufacturing method for optical recording medium, and reproducing method for optical recording medium
An optical recording medium includes a main-information area in which a metal reflection film is formed on a substrate where a row of pits is formed as main data, and a sub-information area in which is recorded medium identification information, which is used to identify the optical recording medium individually, by removing the metal reflection film partially and forming a plurality of reflection-film removed areas. Information is reproduced by irradiating the metal reflection film with a beam of light. In the sub-information area, a row of pits or a guide groove is formed on the substrate, and a track pitch of the row of pits or the guide groove is at least 0.24 μm wide and at most 0.45 μm wide.
US07948856B2 Manufacturing method of an objective lens for an optical pickup apparatus and the optical pickup apparatus
A method of manufacturing an optical pickup apparatus, comprising steps of selecting one type objective lens from plural types of objective lenses different in specification of respective optical path difference providing structures in accordance with an oscillation wavelength of a laser light source; and assembling the selected type objective lens and the laser light source into the apparatus.
US07948848B2 Reproduction data recording methods
A reproduction data recording method for an optical storage medium. The method comprises storing additional data to a first temporary region of a memory device; reading the first recorded data from the optical storage medium and storing the first recorded data to the first temporary region; reading a data segment of the second recorded data from the optical storage medium and storing the data segment to a second temporary region of the memory device; reading the first recorded data from the first temporary region and the data segment from the second temporary region, and decoding the first recorded data and the data segment to confirm accuracy of the first recorded data; reading the first recorded data and the additional data from the first temporary region, and encoding the first recorded data and the additional data to generate encoded data; and writing the encoded data to the optical storage medium.
US07948843B2 Information recording medium, apparatus and method for recording information, and computer program
Disclosed is an information recording medium (100) comprising a first recording layer (L0 layer) which is provided with a first recording track for recording record information, and a second recording layer (L1 layer) which is provided with a second recording track for recording record information. Each recording zone (zone #n) including one recording area in the first recording layer and another recording area in the second recording layer which is opposite to the recording area in the first recording layer has a management information recording area (RMA) for recording management information (RMD) for recording the record information.
US07948836B2 Optical disk drive and optical disk drive control method
The present invention is directed to an optical disk drive in which laser beams are emitted to an optical disk in a state of not rotated, and simultaneously an objective lens which collects the laser beams is moved to a direction approaching the optical disk at a constant speed, a time length required for moving a focused position of the laser beams from a surface of the optical disk to a recording layer is measured by observing a reflected light from the optical disk, and a type of the optical disk is determined based on the time Tdet thus measured, includes a control means which executes, a calculating process which calculates an additional travel time Tadd, based on the Tdet and an in-periphery maximum surface wobbling amount Vd of the optical disk, a moving process which further moves the objective lens for the additional travel time Tadd at the constant speed after the laser beams are focused on the recording layer, a rotating process which rotates the optical disk, a move-away process which moves the objective lens in a direction to be away from the optical disk, and a detecting process which detects that the laser beams are focused on the recording layer of the optical disk after the move-away process is started.
US07948832B1 Time zone determination
A computer-implemented method of determining a time zone for a computing device is disclosed. The method includes identifying a first time offset for the device at a first instant in time, identifying a second time offset for the device at a second instant in time, and determining a time zone for the device using the first and second offsets.
US07948831B2 Smart shower, a motion activated shower timer and alarm with diversion related soundbytes for entertaining or informing used to conserve energy and water
A sound device with a motion detector. The device is used to provide a diversion while user occupies the shower, at the same time keeping track of time and alarming the occupant when time has elapsed. For example: A minute after entering the shower, the timer automatically starts and a trivia question is posed to the occupant. The occupant then has a predefined amount of time to come up with the answer. Upon time lapse, the answer is provided with a gentle reminder that your time is over. Any other variations on this principle are possible.
US07948830B2 Electronic device and display control method
In an electronic device that includes a first display unit (28) and a second display unit (29) that differs from the first display unit (28) in at least a type, a driving method to perform a display control, and a mode of driving to perform the display control, and that displays a plurality of functions using the first display unit (28) and the second display unit (29), a change request to change from a display in a normal mode (11) to a function mode (13) is acquired, and only a display mode of the second display unit (29) is changed, when the change request is made, to a preparation mode (12) without changing a display mode of the first display unit (28) that is in the normal mode (11) when the display modes of the first display unit (28) and the second display unit (29) are to be changed based on the acquired change request.