Document Document Title
US08328179B2 Transport-object transporting device and image processing apparatus
A transport-object transporting device includes a power-transmission blocking mechanism that blocks the transmission of power at an intermediate point of the cam driving gear train so as to maintain the discharge roller in the release position. The power-transmission blocking mechanism includes an engaged portion provided in the rocking arm, and an engaging portion whose engagement position thereof relative to the engaged portion is changeable by changing a rocking direction of the rocking arm. When the engaging portion is set at a predetermined engagement position relative to the engaged portion, the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear are both kept away from the cam driving gear.
US08328177B2 Feed device with improved grip
A mailpiece feed device comprising a mailpiece-receiving deck for receiving a stack of mailpieces, conveyor rollers for conveying the mailpieces along a longitudinal referencing wall and towards a separator device designed to separate the mailpieces one-by-one from said stack of mailpieces and to convey them downstream, and, incorporated vertically in said longitudinal referencing wall, at least one friction roller of varying roughness, with its coefficient of friction decreasing from the top to the bottom of said longitudinal referencing wall.
US08328171B2 Multi function linkage clamping system
A linkage clamping system that may be used both for moving a clamp laterally and for rotating the clamp. The device includes a linear actuator, a rotational linkage assembly, and a clamping member. The linear actuator may first rotate the clamp, then move the clamp laterally, or may be configured to move the clamp laterally first, then rotate it. Both the lateral and rotational movements are achieved in distinct motions with a single linear actuator. The clamp may be rotated about 180 degrees and the lateral movement may only be limited by the lateral movement provided by the linear actuator. The linkage clamping system may be used to secure equipment, such as a material handler for unloading an open top railroad car.
US08328166B2 Restraint system
In a preferred embodiment, a restraint system is described for restraining a standing occupant in a vehicle such as a plane or helicopter. The restraint system includes a webbing strap that winds and unwinds from a spool assembly. The spool assembly includes a trigger assembly that locks a spool from rotation, a manual release assembly for manually releasing the trigger assembly and lock, and an adjustable payout assembly that determines the maximum length that the webbing strap can be pulled out before stopping (i.e., the number of rotations of the spool). The trigger assembly can trigger the lock assembly from one or more sensors. Further, the trigger assembly can be arranged to automatically unlock after a triggering event, manually unlocked after a triggering event or a combination of the two for different sensors.
US08328162B2 Pivotable control valve assembly for water treatment device
A pivotable control valve assembly may be used with a water treatment device in a water treatment system. A pivotable control valve assembly may be pivotable relative to the water treatment device to allow user controls on the pivotable control valve assembly to be oriented in a desired user access position. In a water treatment system including a plurality of water treatment devices, for example, one or more pivotable control valve assemblies may be pivoted such that user controls for each of the water treatment devices are in desired user access positions.
US08328160B2 Seals, ball valve assemblies, and methods of operating ball valve assemblies
Seals, ball valve assemblies, and methods of operating ball valves assemblies are provided. The seal includes an annular jacket, a restrictor, and a spring energizer. The annular jacket includes a first annular pocket and a second annular pocket. The restrictor is disposed in the first annular pocket and is capable of restricting shrinkage of the first annular pocket to a predetermined diameter range, if the seal is exposed to a temperature within a predetermined temperature range. The spring energizer is disposed in the second annular pocket and is configured to supply a force against the annular jacket to maintain the seal against a contact surface.
US08328159B2 Vacuum valve device for bag
A vacuum valve device is used with a bag and has a base and a clip. The base has a tube, a clipping flange and a valve. The tube mounted through a sheet of the bag and has a central hole and at least one outlet hole. The clipping flange is formed on the tube. The valve is mounted slidably in the tube and selectively seal the at least one outlet hole. The clip is mounted detachably around the tube of the base and cooperates with the clipping flange to hermetically clip the sheet of the bag. The vacuum valve device may be reused, is economical and marketable.
US08328155B2 Rail adjustment system for a motor vehicle seat
The invention relates to a rail adjustment system for a motor vehicle seat, wherein the rail adjustment system includes an electromotive spindle drive and a threaded spindle that can be coupled to a flexible drive shaft for the longitudinal adjustment of a rail pair. The rails of said rail pair are connected to one another by means of a retaining element, which includes an integrated guide duct for holding the drive shaft.
US08328153B2 Display apparatus and stand thereof
A display apparatus includes a display body for displaying information and a stand for supporting the display body. The stand includes a base, a first supporting member comprising a first positioning portion adjustable disposed on the base and a first supporting portion connecting with the display body; and a second supporting member comprising a second positioning portion adjustable disposed on the base and a second supporting portion pivotally fixed on the first supporting portion to form a triangle. A distance between the first positioning portion and the second positioning portion is changeable.
US08328137B2 Emergency exit hatch for exiting a cabin module in an emergency and entering the same
The invention relates to an emergency exit hatch for exiting a cabin module for an aircraft in an emergency and entering the cabin module. Said emergency exit hatch comprises a first mechanism for visually inspecting a zone below the emergency exit hatch by at least partly opening the emergency exit hatch by means of the first mechanism, and a second mechanism for entirely opening the emergency exit hatch . The first mechanism is not the same as the second mechanism.
US08328129B2 Vibration-attenuating hard-mounted pylon
A preferred embodiment of a pylon has six pylon mounting links for mounting the pylon to an airframe. Each link is considered “near-rigid” and has a spherical-bearing rod-end on both ends such that the link can only transmit axial loads. At least one of the links has a mass carried within the link and selectively moveable by an actuating means along the axis of the link in an oscillatory manner for attenuating vibrations traveling axially through the link. The actuating means may be an electromechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or piezoelectric system. By mounting each link in a selected orientation relative to the other links, the actuating means may be operated in a manner that attenuates axial vibration that would otherwise be transmitted through the link and into the airframe.
US08328122B2 Spraying apparatus and method of using the same
An outlet head (22) for a spray device (10), the outlet head (22) comprising an inlet section (31) having an opening (30) adapted to receive an output section (20) of a spray material container (16), said opening (30) forming a first end of a fluid channel for spray material from the spray material container (16), the outlet head (22) also comprising an outlet portion (14) adapted to eject spray material and forming a second end of the fluid channel for spray material, wherein the inlet section (31) has a first, major, lateral axis and a second, minor, lateral axis, said first and second axes being substantially at right angles to one another, wherein the size of the inlet section along the first, major, axis is greater than the size of the inlet section along the second, minor, axis.
US08328117B2 Lawn sprinkler
A lawn sprinkler providing water distribution over an irregular or unique shaped water receiving area. The apparatus includes a water impeller, a first water regulator, a second water regulator, and a bypass channel. The sprinkler regulates the delivery of water according to the shape of the area to be irrigated, so that water is not wasted on adjacent areas which do not require irrigation.
US08328116B2 Method and system for preheating epoxy coatings for spray application
A method and system for the spray application of epoxy materials is provided. The system includes a dual walled tank structure as a reservoir for containing and preheating the epoxy materials in preparation for mixing and spray application. Each component of the epoxy material is preheated before the components are mixed. After preheating, the components are then mixed together and spray applied. The method and system of the present invention provides a high quality spray applied epoxy coating while reducing equipment down time and cleaning.
US08328115B2 Wicking apparatus for liquid droplet spray device
This wicking apparatus includes a liquid reservoir, a wick holder, and a wick. The wick holder has a top part for fitting on the reservoir neck and a bottom part for insertion into the reservoir opening, the top part being plate-formed with a central opening, and with two peripheral projections that are spaced apart and that extend downward from the plate towards the reservoir body, projections for contacting inner and outer walls of the reservoir neck, and a second projection for contacting an outer wall of the reservoir neck, the bottom part having wick supporting arms that extend downwards and have flexible end portions projecting inwardly towards the center of the reservoir opening. The wick is step-shaped with a larger diameter part, and a smaller diameter part; the interface between them defines a shoulder which is supported and held in place by the flexible end portions of the supporting arms.
US08328103B2 Device for checking energy received by an antenna for preventing data corruption during a write operation in a non volatile transponder memory
A transponder circuit includes an antenna for receiving radio frequency signals and an extraction unit for extracting therefrom energy for the transponder circuit, a non volatile memory unit, a control logic unit that activates a received energy evaluation unit when a write operation is received. The evaluation unit is arranged directly at the antenna to provide the control logic unit with a signal representative of the status of energy available in the antenna indicating whether the available energy is greater than a minimum level for ensuring a proper write operation or not, wherein the control logic unit is arranged for performing, or not performing, the write operation. The evaluation unit includes a resistive divider including a set of resistors or a programmable current source and rectifier means on each connector of the antenna for simulating a write operation in the memory and energy recoverable by the power supply.
US08328089B2 Hands free contact database information entry at a communication device
A method, system, and program provides for hands free contact database information entry at a communication device. A recording system at a communication device detects a user initiation to record. Responsive to detecting the user initiation to record, the recording system records the ongoing conversation supported between the communication device and a second remote communication device. The recording system converts the recording of the conversation into text. Next, the recording system extracts contact information from the text. Then, the recording system stores the extracted contact information in an entry of the contact database, such that contact information is added to the contact database of the communication device without manual entry of the contact information by the user.
US08328084B2 Device for receiving and/or issuing payment means and/or for processing value documents
An apparatus for accepting and/or dispensing payment and/or for processing value documents having a housing in which there is disposed a control device for controlling at least one part of the apparatus, the housing having a housing body with a housing opening, a housing element movable relative to the housing body, and a housing element holding device that holds the housing element movably on at least one part of the housing body, and a display device controlled by the control device for displaying operating and servicing information which is held on the housing element. The housing element holding device is configured so that the housing element reciprocates between an operating position in which the housing element at least partly closes the housing opening, and a servicing position in which the housing element at least partly releases the housing opening, where the display device in the operating position is oriented with respect to the display device in the servicing position so as to be rotated by an angle that is smaller than 90°.
US08328070B1 Wire handling facilitator
A wire handling facilitator in the form of a backpack. An apparatus that is useful for handling small rolls of wire that is to be welded into channels of metal surfaces.
US08328057B2 Roof rack with stowable crossrails
A roof rack assembly is provided for a motor vehicle roof. The roof rack assembly includes a support member adapted to be fixedly secured to the roof. The support member includes first and second flanges extending out therefrom. A crossrail is releasably coupled to the support member for movement between a stowed position and a deployed position. The crossrail is engageable with the first flange when in the stowed position and engageable with the second flange when in the deployed position.
US08328056B2 Device for carrying sets of documents of various sizes and associated method
A device is disclosed for carrying sets of documents of various sizes utilizing at least a document support tray supported on the forearm of a carrier by a forearm supporter secured by a single arm and hand of a carrier such that the documents may easily be delivered utilizing the free arm of the carrier to selectively pick from one of the stacks made available through the device. The device also includes a holder to secure an animal repellent container. The device also permits a novel method of delivering mail whereby the carrier may have free use of the hand and arm opposite to that engaged by the device.
US08328055B1 Wrist holder for a smartphone or personal digital assistant
A holder for a handheld device such as a smartphone or personal digital assistant (PDA) worn securely on a wrist, that allows the device to selectively rotate to a plurality of desired positions while remaining on the wrist. The holder has a protective shell case rotatably connected to a wrist strap by a pair of interlocking assemblies. In a first embodiment, a spring assembly with a pair of tabs on the wrist strap connects to a socket assembly attached to the shell case. In a further embodiment, the socket assembly on the strap connects to the spring assembly on the case. The shell case holds the device, allowing a user to directly access and use the device single-handedly when worn on the wrist. The device rotates between portrait and landscape positions by grasping the shell case and twisting, and detaches quickly by squeezing the tabs, disengaging the interlocking assemblies.
US08328047B2 Robust pouch and valve assembly for containing and dispensing a fluent substance
A package (52) is provided for containing and dispensing a fluent product. The package (52) includes a fitment body (18) having a tailpiece (40) defining a dispensing passage (19) extending along a longitudinal axis (23), and a collapsible pouch (12) for containing a fluent product to be dispensed, the pouch (12) defined by at least two opposing, flexible, web portions (24). The fitment body (18) extends from a dispensing end (33) of the pouch (12) with the tailpiece (40) being sandwiched between the flexible web portions (24), and the flexible web portions (24) being welded to each other and to the tailpiece (40) to define a robust weld structure (54).
US08328043B2 Container with concertina side walls and base
A collapsible container or reservoir including at least one side wall region (4-7) and a basal wall region or base (8) surrounding a containment region having an upper opening or mouth (10) surrounded by a perimeter flange (9) at the ends of the side walls distal from the basal wall region, the side walls include a region of concertina (14) whereby, upon squeezing or compression of the side walls, the basal wall region of the container is compacted more, relative to the extent of the upper opening. The container can be used for dispensing foods such as pet food, sauces, yogurt, custard or the like, or other liquids or semi fluid materials such as oil, grease, glue or resin.
US08328040B2 Multiple-walled storage tank
A liquid storage tank includes a vessel comprising sidewalls, end walls, a floor and a roof that define a closed interior cavity within the vessel, with at least a first of the sidewalls of the vessel having a multi-walled construction comprising an interior wall and an interior wall. The tank further comprises a manway assembly in the first sidewall. The manway assembly comprises exterior and interior openings and exterior and interior doors for closing the exterior and interior openings, respectively. The exterior and interior openings and the exterior and interior doors are arranged relative to each other and the interior door is sufficiently small so that while the exterior door is open the interior door can be opened by pivoting the interior door into the exterior opening.
US08328038B2 Closure with liner seal vents
A plastic closure includes a shell having a base wall with a skirt for securement to a container finish and a lip that extends radially inwardly from the skirt at a position adjacent to and spaced from the base wall. A liner is compression molded in situ against the base wall, and between the base wall and the lip. The lip has a plurality of circumferentially spaced passages that extend through the lip for venting air during compression molding of the liner.
US08328036B2 Double rib overcap with plug for a container with a removable membrane
There is provided a double rib overcap with a plug for a container with a removable membrane. The skirt of the overcap includes two inside surfaces axially separated a rib. The container opening is encircled by a rim and the membrane covers the opening such that the membrane extends radially onto an outer surface of the rim. The two inside surfaces of the skirt are dimensionally sized to create an interference-fit with the rim when the overcap is connected to the container when the membrane is either attached or removed. The overcap also includes a circumferential ring radially inward of the skirt that is axially positioned to engage the top surface of the membrane when the membrane is attached to the container and is diametrically dimensioned to engage an inner wall of the container when the membrane is removed from the container.
US08328034B2 Food container
A lunch box assembly having a main housing having a lid rotatably, hingedly attached to a base to provide access to an opened interior of one or more compartments is disclosed. The lid can have ferrously magnetic material and recesses to accept magnets. The magnets can be shaped to fit the recesses. The base can have compartments aligned with corresponding compartments in the lid. The base and the lid can form one or more closed food storage compartments that separate the contents from the neighboring compartments. A latch on the base and lid can produce a clamping force on a small lidded container or containers placed in one or more of the compartments. The clamping force can clamp the lidded container closed and prevent leakage of fluids in the container.
US08328018B2 Child-resistant carded blister package and method of manufucture
A carded package includes a front card bonded to a rear card with a blister card captured therebetween. The blister card has upstanding blister compartments projecting through openings of the front card. The rear card extends over an opposite face of the blister card and is a laminate including a tear-resistant polymeric layer bonded to a paperboard layer. The polymeric layer extends adjacent the blister card and the paperboard layer of the laminate extends remote from the blister card forming an exposed surface of the rear card. The rear card includes perforations aligned behind the blister compartments. The perforations include a first set of perforations cut entirely through the paperboard and polymeric layers and a second set of perforations cut into the paperboard layer and not into or entirely through the polymeric layer. A method of assembling a carded package is also disclosed.
US08328017B2 User inflated breachable container, and method
Breachable product container 10 is formed by first lamina 10B and opposed second lamina 10C selectively pressed together. Perimeter seal 10S extends around the perimeter of the container. Product chamber 12P and inflatable breaching bubble 12 are between the selectively pressed opposed laminae, within the perimeter seal. Product 16 is contained within the product chamber. Inner divider 14D extends between the product chamber and the breaching bubble. Transfer passage 14 through the inner divider permits inflation of the breaching bubble in response to moderate pressure applied to the product chamber during an extended inflation period. Breaching edge 12E forms part of the perimeter seal around the breaching bubble. The breaching edge provides an edge breach by separating the opposed laminae along the breaching edge in response to substantial pressure applied to the breaching bubble during a brief breaching period. Opposed peel flaps 12C and 12B are formed along the edge breach by the separated opposed laminae. The end-user pulls the peel flaps apart causing detachment of the inner divider for permitting access to the product chamber.
US08328014B2 Multiple sealed beverage vessels in a case
A consumer packaged good includes a case, a plurality of translucent vessels vertically stacked within the case, a beverage stored in each of the plurality of the vessels and a barrier sealed to each vessel for containing the beverage in the respective vessel. The case includes a base wall and at least one side wall extending upwardly from the base wall. The plurality of translucent vessels are surrounded by the sidewall. Each vessel includes an opening for drinking from the vessel and a base surface for supporting the vessel on an associated support surface. The barrier seals to each vessel for covering the opening and containing the beverage in the respective vessel. The barrier is peelable from the vessel without destroying the vessel to provide access to the beverage stored in the vessel.
US08328010B2 Cap assembly having storage chamber for secondary material with movable working member
The storage chamber for secondary material applicable to the discharging direction of contents stored in the container consists of body with storage space and inseparable operating section mounted around the globe. If above operating section moves up, opening and closing hole made or formed in the storage space of storage is opened and contents stored in the storage space is dropped and mixed with contents stored in the container. The mixed contents are discharged via a vent mounted on the top of operating section. A vent is not opened until the operating section is opened, and closing section of opening and closing hole is provided so that the opening and closing hole may not be not clogged after being opened.
US08328008B2 Case for electronic tablet
A case incorporates a built-in stand for an electronic device, such as an electronic tablet computer, which the case houses. The case protects the electronic device and allows a user to view and access the device without removing it from the case. The built-in stand is adjustable and allows for multiple viewing angles.
US08328007B1 Business card package
A package of business cards arranged in a stack. Each card has a main body bearing data and an end tab connected to one end of the main body along a tear line, and a cover. The cover includes a back panel having a segment underlying all the end tabs and a front panel hingedly connected to the back panel adjacent to the free ends of the main bodies so that the front panel may be swung between an open position wherein it exposes the main body of the uppermost card in the stack and a closed position wherein it covers that main body. Securements secure together all the end tabs of the stack and the segment of the lower panel. An end cap covers the end tabs and provides a knife edge to facilitate tearing the main bodies from their tabs along their respective tear lines.
US08328006B2 Conveyor roller servicing apparatus
A return side conveyor belt support for a conveyor may comprise: a mandrel mountable to the far side of the conveyor and extending transversely toward the near side thereof; a member slidably and rotatably mountable to the mandrel from the near side of the conveyor for sliding thereon and for rotating about the mandrel; a return roller rotatable and supported by the member, wherein the return roller is transverse to the conveyor belt when the member is mounted to the mandrel, wherein rotating the member in a first direction moves the return roller to an operating position for supporting the conveyor belt and rotating the member in a second direction moves the return roller to a position wherein the member and return roller are removable from the support mandrel.
US08328004B2 Conveyor system
A conveyor system for conveying at least one product comprises at least one first conveyor, which is adjacent to at least one second conveyor via a junction. The conveying direction of the first conveyor near the junction is different from the conveying direction of the second conveyor near the junction. The first conveyor has a first conveying surface and the second conveyor has a second conveying surface for supporting the product thereon. The orientation of the normal of the part of the first conveying surface adjacent to junction is substantially different from that of the normal of the part of the second conveying surface adjacent to the junction. A moving assembly is configured to move the product from the first conveyor to the second conveyor The first conveyor describes an arcuate path at least near the junction.
US08328003B2 Shopping cart conveyor with gate assembly
A conveyor for moving a shopping cart between a first location and a second location. The conveyor including a movable conveyor that is adapted to engage and move the shopping cart along a path, and a gate assembly including a door that is movable between an open position allowing passage of the shopping cart along the path, and a closed position inhibiting passage of the shopping art along the path. The door is adapted to move from the closed position to the open position as the shopping cart approaches, and is adapted to move back to the closed position before the shopping cart has passed the door.
US08327995B1 Cash handling device having environmental condition monitoring system
A cash recycler or other currency handling device includes an environmental condition monitoring system including a plurality of sensors configured to monitor environmental conditions inside the housing of the cash recycler. In some arrangements, the temperature and/or humidity within the housing will be monitored. Upon sensing that the conditions are outside of a predetermined threshold, an indication will be sent to a controller that will adjust operation of the cash recycler based on the indications received from the sensors.
US08327992B2 Friction plate and wet-type multi-plate clutch having such friction plate
The present invention provides a friction plate having a friction surface formed by sticking an annular friction material to a substantially annular core plate and wherein the friction surface is provided with a first oil groove having an opening portion opened to an inner peripheral edge of the friction plate and an end terminating at a point between the inner peripheral edge and an outer peripheral edge, and a second oil groove having an opening portion opened to the outer peripheral edge of the friction plate and an end terminating at a point between the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge.
US08327989B2 Clutch reaction plate
A torque-transfer clutch includes a clutch reaction plate including an annular-shaped reaction element fixedly attached to a rigid plate element. The annular-shaped reaction element includes a preformed spring steel element and a plurality of undulations projecting orthogonal to a planar surface of the rigid plate element.
US08327985B2 Two stage vibration isolator
A vibration isolating system is disclosed. The vibration isolating system comprises a passive mechanical system comprising a damping assembly, a first resilient member coupled in series with the damping assembly, and a second resilient member coupled in parallel with the series combination of the damping assembly and the first resilient member. The vibration isolating system further comprises a support member coupled in series with the passive mechanical system, a viscoelastic mount coupled to the support member, and a motion limiter coupled to the support member such that the passive mechanical system transmits a force to the support member when the passive mechanical undergoes longitudinal displacement greater than a predetermined displacement.
US08327984B2 Magnetorheological (MR) piston assembly with primary and secondary channels to improve MR damper force
A magnetorheolgical (MR) damper includes a piston assembly having a primary channel disposed along a longitudinal axis and contained in a cylinder. MR fluid is also contained in the cylinder. The piston assembly having a primary channel, or primary channel MR piston assembly, includes a piston body having a first end axially spaced from a second end and defining a hole therethrough. The primary channel is defined in an outer body surface of the piston body from the hole at the second end to a coil groove in the outer body surface about the axis. A secondary channel is defined in the outer body surface from the coil groove towards the first end to improve MR damper force performance at low primary channel MR piston assembly velocities.
US08327982B2 Actuator/coupler for towed and towing vehicle combination
An actuator/coupler device having a housing connected to a towed vehicle and a coupler attached to a towing vehicle, wherein the coupler is secured to the housing through a pair of opposing roller shafts extending through a slot within the coupler and a hole in the housing. Rollers secured to the roller shafts bear on a surface within the generally hollow interior of the coupler. A brake actuator secures within the coupler, wherein a first end of the brake actuator is secured to the rear roller shaft and a second end is fixed to the coupler, wherein the brake actuator is in operable communication with the brakes of the towed vehicle such that the brake actuator is actuated by movement of the coupler relative to the housing. A coupler ball socket is included within the coupler for releasable attachment of the coupler ball connected to the towing vehicle.
US08327966B2 Articulated dump truck
An article dump truck has a front tractor unit connected to an associated rear trailer unit with a tipping container by an articulated coupling. The articulated coupling is operable to allow the front tractor unit and rear trailer unit to pivot about a vertical pivot axis, rams being provided to turn the front tractor unit and rear trailer unit about the pivot to steer the dump truck. The articulated coupling also allows the front tractor unit and rear trailer unit to rotate relative to each other about a longitudinal axis of the dump truck. In addition, the front tractor unit has a front chassis mounted on a pair of wheels by an independent suspension system.
US08327964B2 Arrangement of canister in saddle-riding type vehicle
A canister is provided which efficiently purges in a saddle-riding type vehicle having an engine disposed downwardly of a rider seat so as to develop a drive power for driving a rear wheel, a fuel tank storing fuel to be supplied to the engine, and a canister adsorbing fuel vapors generated in the fuel tank. An air guide path that guides exhaust air discharged rearwardly from a radiator, which circulates coolant with an engine, is formed inside a vehicle body cover. The canister is disposed in the air guide path.
US08327961B2 Walk-with apparatus
Walk-with apparatus (101), e.g. a powered golf-caddy (101), has a reference member (18), a handle (1) adapted to be used to hold and guide the apparatus, and rotary mechanical damping means (13, 14), the handle 1 being movable in a forwards and backwards direction (103) relative to the reference member (18) to produce electric signals (104) to vary the speed of the (apparatus 101), under the effect of the damping means (13, 14) thereby to inhibit hunting. In addition to spring means (6, 8) and a DC motor controller (110) with an acceleration ramp, the damping means (13, 14) is needed to give smooth motion. The handle (1) has rotary cam means (80, 81, 90) to lock it in any position along direction (103), with a 45° rotation either way at any angle. The handle (1) has a fold-flat articulation means (21a, 23a, 84-88) comprising two interengaging cogged parts (21a, 23a), each having a pivot (87), one part (23) a for handle land the other part (21a) for a support member (21) (on the main part of caddy (101)) for handle (1), and a tie (84, 84) tying the two pivots (87, 87) together. The handle (1) can swivel sideways (under rotary mechanical damping means (200a, 210, 210a)) to steer the caddy (101), with a potentiometer (207) to generate electric steering signals (104), e.g. to operate differentially the caddy's wheels (101a, 101b) for steering.
US08327960B2 Robotic vehicle
A robotic vehicle (10,100,150A,150B150C,160,1000,1000A, includes a chassis (20,106,152,162) having front and rear ends (20A,152A,20B,152B) and supported on right and left driven tracks (34,44,108,165). Right and left elongated flippers (50,60,102,154,164) are disposed on corresponding sides of the chassis and operable to pivot. A linkage (70,156,166) connects a payload deck assembly (D1,D2,D3,80,158,168,806), configured to support a removable functional payload, to the chassis. The linkage has a first end (70A) rotatably connected to the chassis at a first pivot (71), and a second end (70B) rotatably connected to the deck at a second pivot (73). Both of the first and second pivots include independently controllable pivot drivers (72,74) operable to rotatably position their corresponding pivots (71,73) to control both fore-aft position and pitch orientation of the payload deck (D1,D2,D3,80,158,168,806) with respect to the chassis (20,106,152,162).
US08327957B2 Downhole cutting tool having center beveled mill blade
Downhole cutting tools such as blade mills comprise a body having a first end for connection with a rotating component of a drill string and a cutting end for rotation in unison with the body. The cutting end comprises at least two blades, each of the at least two blades comprising a front sidewall surface, a back sidewall surface, an inner end, an outer end, and at least one beveled portion disposed along the front sidewall surface toward the inner end of each of the at least two blades. At least one of the beveled portions comprise at least one cutting element disposed thereon that is disposed across a center point of the face of the cutting end to provide for cutting away an object disposed in a wellbore to occur across a center point of the cutting end.
US08327946B1 Dry sprinkler
A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The preferred dry sprinkler has a metallic disc annulus positionable within a passageway to skew a central axis of a face of the metallic disc annulus with respect to a longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler so that an expected minimum flow rate based on a rated discharge coefficient is provided. The dry sprinkler operates to provide an expected flow rate over a range of start pressures. The expected flow rate is based on a K-factor rating. The dry sprinkler provides an acceptable level of fluid flow rate from the expected flow rate based on the K-factor for a range of start pressures.
US08327944B2 Whipstock attachment to a fixed cutter drilling or milling bit
An assembly is provided to attach a whipstock to a mill/drill bit. The assembly includes an upper collar adapted for installation around a shank of the mill/drill bit. At least one connecting member is mounted at a first end to the upper collar. The connecting member extends downwardly from the upper collar and is adapted to fit within a junkslot of the mill/drill bit to which the upper collar is attached. A whipstock attachment structure is mounted to a second end of the at least one connecting member.
US08327942B2 Method and an apparatus for cold start of a subsea production system
A method and an apparatus for establishing a hydrate free regime in a subsea production flowline before discharging into the subsea production flowline a production flow of hydrate prone hydrocarbon product pursuant to a shutdown or at an initial start of production. The hydrate free regime is achieved by injecting into the flowline a heated water volume in advance of discharging the hydrocarbon product from the subsea production system.
US08327940B2 Method for hydraulic fracturing of a low permeability subterranean formation
A fracturing fluid containing proppant particles is injected into a fracture made in a low-permeability subterranean formation, providing a turbulent flow of the fluid in the fracture during injection. This allow to increase a fracture conductivity after its closure by means of preventing transverse migration of proppant particles within the fracture and the reduction of their setting rate.
US08327922B2 Heat sink and method for manufacturing the same
A heat sink comprises a plurality of individual plates. Each of the plates comprises a heat-dissipating portion and a binding portion connecting with the heat-dissipating portion. The binding portions are stacked together on each other to form a heat-absorbing portion. At least some of the heat-dissipating portions are bent at angles relative to the respective binding portions. At least a hoop encloses the heat-absorbing portion. A method of manufacturing the heat sink is also disclosed.
US08327917B2 Apparatus for producing amorphous alloy foil strip and method for producing amorphous alloy foil strip
An apparatus and a method for producing an amorphous alloy foil strip, which are capable of producing an amorphous alloy foil strip having a large sheet thickness in an industrial scale, are provided.A production apparatus 101 for an amorphous alloy foil strip S includes: a pair of cooling rolls 113a and 113b; a driving unit 111 configured to rotate the cooling rolls; and a crucible 114 configured to supply a molten alloy sequentially to an outer circumferential surface of the cooling roll 113a and an outer circumferential surface of the cooling roll 113b. The crucible 114 is movable along a moving unit 116. A molten alloy is supplied alternately to the cooling roll 113a and the cooling roll 113b while rotating and water-cooling the cooling rolls 113a and 113b.
US08327916B2 Low pressure cylinder head outer die components for core gas removal
An apparatus for core gas removal in a low-pressure cylinder head die casting operation includes an upper die, a lower die, an ejector plate disposed above the upper die to eject a part that has been cast, a plurality of tight plugs fastened into cavities formed in the upper die, and a plurality of clean pins attached to the ejector plate, each clean pin corresponding to a location of one of the tight plugs. The clean pins and the tight plugs have matching geometries. The ejector plate lowers to eject a casted cylinder head from the upper die such that a portion of the clean pins extend axially into the tight plugs to clean core gas residue formed on inner walls of the tight plugs during the casting cycle.
US08327914B2 Feeding system for semi-solid metal injection
A semi-solid metal alloy injection feed system for reduced inclusion injection molding comprises a substantially closed injection chamber for containing a billet of semi-solid metal alloy, and thrusting the billet through the injection chamber into a mold, wherein the injection chamber has a first section defined by a wall with an inner contour for mating with a bearing surface for reciprocating motion of the bearing surface within the first section, along a center axis of the injection chamber; and the injection chamber has an outlet in fluid communication with the mold, the outlet provided at an opening in the injection chamber that is offset with respect to the center axis, and is disposed at an angle of 90° to 125° from the center axis. There is no neck or throttling between the chamber and the outlet. A butt end trap is preferably formed that requires inclusions that are principally on a bottom side of the injector to travel a relatively long ways to enter the outlet.
US08327909B2 Process for casting a metal melt
A method for the casting of cast parts from an iron melt forming vermicular or spheroidal graphite, includes casting iron melt into a casting mold, which includes at least one casting mold part, which is formed from a mold material, which is mixed from a sand-type basic material and an organic binder, and then gassed with a gas containing sulphur in order to harden the binder, such that a mold part of stable form is obtained. The method provides embodiments in which molds produced in accordance with the SO2 process enable the risk of occurrence of local microstructure degeneration in the cast part to be reduced to a minimum. This is achieved in that, after the hardening of the mold part and before the casting, at least one of the surfaces, which comes into contact with the iron melt, is provided with a coating containing a non-volatile sulphide former.
US08327906B2 Tiltable double-layered fabric blind
A tiltable double-layered fabric blind is provided, which includes a double-layered fabric, composed of transparent front and rear sheets and a plurality of opaque spacer veins, with a horizontal bar mounted to a lower end of the fabric, a rotator having a coupling pipe and a driving body mounted to one side of the coupling pipe, the coupling pipe being combined with the double-layered fabric, an angle regulator having a rotating pipe and a rotating body, the rotating pipe having a friction member, which makes one layer of the double-layered fabric brought into close contact with the circumference thereof, a connection plate having a protrusion, which is coupled through the rotator and the angle regulator, and control cords mounted on one side of the rotator and the angle regulator.
US08327897B2 Automatic tire sealing and inflating system
Sealing and inflating system incorporated with a vehicular wheel including a tire rim and a tire mounted to the tire rim including a source of sealing and inflating compound arranged in connection with the tire or tire rim, a detecting mechanism for detecting a rupture in the tire, and a release mechanism coupled to the source and the detecting mechanism for releasing a quantity of the sealing and inflating compound from the source when the detecting mechanism detects a rupture in the tire. The source, detecting mechanism and release mechanism can all be arranged in the pressurized interior space defined by the tire and the tire rim. In this case, the source can be attached to the tire rim. One such construction of the source has two substantially semi-circular parts arranged around the tire rim and connected together, with a release mechanism being arranged in engagement with each part.
US08327895B2 Drive axle seal body and tire inflation system
A sealing body disposed about a rotating drive axle and forming an air chamber thereabout. The drive axle is provided with an air conduit extending therein and communicating air from the air chamber to the center of the drive axle and for delivery to tires via the wheel at the center of the axle flange. The sealing body includes an air conduit in communication with the air chamber, and is configured to secure to remain stationary about the drive axle axially rotating therein. The sealing body is typically disposed between the drive axle splines and the wheel and forms an air seal thereabout. The sealing body may comprise of a plurality of parts when the splines have a greater diameter than the remainder of the drive axle, but may also comprise of a unitary body configured to be axially disposed over the splines when the splines have a diameter consistent with the drive axle.
US08327892B2 Vaporizer filler lock and method of filling a vaporizer
A vaporizer filling system includes a filler assembly, a sump, and a valve. The valve controls fluid communication into the sump. A retaining device retains the valve in an open position. A delay is connected to the retaining device. The delay controls the operation of the retaining device in order to retain the valve in the open position until the delay detects a release condition. The delay then controls the retaining device to release the valve. A method of filling a vaporizer includes engaging a bottle of liquid anesthetic agent with a filler assembly. The bottle and the filler assembly are moved from a first position to a second position. The bottle and filling assembly are locked in the second position with a retaining device. Then the retaining device is released and the bottle and filler assembly are returned to the first position.
US08327886B2 Conduit repair structure
A conduit repair structure in which solid objects are less likely to accumulate on a conduit bottom and that, even if solid objects accumulate on the conduit bottom, facilitates removal of the solid objects. A hollow frame-like reinforcement body laid substantially along a cross-sectional shape of a conduit (1) is constructed using a reinforcing member (2) having fixing parts (2p) arranged at predetermined intervals on the inner side of the conduit (2). Resin inner face bars (10) are attached to the inner side of the reinforcement body, and a curable filling material is placed in the space formed by the inner face bars (10) and a conduit inner wall (1a) to form a filling material layer (3). A body section (10c) of each inner face bar (10) is formed recessed in its width direction. The recessed shape of the body sections (10c) forms riblets on the bottom of the conduit, and this reduces resistance to water flowing in the conduit. Even in conduits, such as a horseshoe-shaped conduit and a rectangular conduit (box culvert), having flat bottoms and in which objects flow at low speed, the structure allows the objects to flow easier.
US08327883B2 Multi-way selector valve
There is provided a multi-way selector valve capable of suppressing any excessive rise in the pressure of a high-pressure refrigerant during a transitional phase of flow path switching and of preventing malfunctioning of a flow path switching operation, while also being capable of preventing situations in which erroneous judgments of anomaly/failure occurrences in the device are made by a fail-safe mechanism to cause the device to stop unduly. A high-pressure passage portion 55 to which a high-pressure fluid is introduced is formed in a valve member 50. A valve seat portion 65 provided with a first inlet/outlet 13 and a second inlet/outlet 14 that are selectively communicated with an outlet-side end portion 55a of the high-pressure passage portion 55, and a valve chest 61 into which a low-pressure fluid is selectively introduced via the first inlet/outlet 13 and the second inlet/outlet 14 are provided in a valve body 60. During the transitional phase of flow path switching, the outlet-side end portion 55a of the high-pressure passage portion 55 of the valve member 50 is made to slide while being pressed against a portion between the first inlet/outlet 13 and the second inlet/outlet 14 in the valve seat portion 65. There is formed between the first inlet/outlet 13 and the second inlet/outlet 14 of the valve seat portion 65 an escape passage portion 69 comprising a groove, notch, through-hole or the like for allowing the high-pressure refrigerant of the high-pressure passage portion 55 to escape to the side of the valve chest 61 during the transitional phase of flow path switching.
US08327871B1 Multi-valve cartridge pressure regulator
A pressure regulator having a conduit with a plurality of adjustable valves inserted reversibly into the conduit. The valves are aligned along the axis of water flow. The interior of the conduit is divided into an inlet chamber and outlet chamber by a septum. The valves are inserted into the inlet chamber, and valve seats protrude through holes in the septum into the outlet chamber, thereby sealing the inlet chamber from the outlet chamber. Fluid flows into the conduit, into the inlet chamber, through the open valve, into the outlet chamber, and then flows out of the conduit. The valves regulate fluid pressure in the outlet chamber. The degree of pressure regulation can be adjusted for each valve by turning pressure adjustment knobs on the top of the valves to produce precise regulation of pressure and fluid flow. A conduit plug can replace a valve in the conduit.
US08327860B2 Heat retaining hair curling system and method of styling
An improved hair styling device with heating elements and heat retaining clips inside the device's housing. The clips present double concave inner faces, and form an enclosed space when in a closed position. A heat retaining element with an elevated heat capacity is incorporated into the clips adjacent the inner surface of the jaws of the clips; and also presents a double concave surface to the inside of the clips when in a closed position. The heating elements are made up of elongated heating rods with multiple heating locations along their length. Each heating location has an enlarged double convex area on the surface of the heating rods. The heating locations are complimentary to the shape of the heat retaining element, and therefore heat the clips quickly and evenly.
US08327856B2 Environmentally degradable cigarette filter
An environmentally degradable cigarette filter includes a filter element of a bloomed cellulose acetate tow and a plug wrap surrounding said filter element. A weak organic acid and a pH adjusted inorganic ester salt are encapsulated in a matrix material which is in contact with the tow. The pH adjusted inorganic ester salt has a pH less than or equal to 8. When the cigarette filter is discarded into the environment, water liberates the weak acid and the ester salt from the matrix material. The weak acid hydrolyzes the ester liberating a strong acid. The strong acid catalyzes the degradation of the cellulose acetate tow. (The weak acid also hydrolyzes the cellulose acetate tow, but after the strong acid is generated, the strong acid becomes the dominant acid catalyst for the cellulose acetate tow degradation.)
US08327851B2 Respiratory mask with user interface
This invention is a respiration-related mask with a user interface for custom fitting the mask to a person's face. It comprises: a respiration-related mask that directs a breathable gas into a person's nose, mouth, or both; two or more differentially and selectively movable members that are part of the mask, wherein differential and selective movement of these members changes the face-contacting contour of the mask; and a remote user interface that allows the person to differentially and selectively adjust the movable members so as to better fit the face-contacting contour of the mask to the person's face while the person is wearing the mask. The resulting mask can conform to the contours of a person's face so that there are no places around the mask that fit too tightly (causing irritation, skin marks, and pain) and no places that fit too loosely (causing air leaks). This can increase patient tolerance of wearing a mask and can improve the therapeutic efficiency of wearing a mask.
US08327848B2 Pressure reducing valve
A pressure reducing valve for use in a system adapted to deliver a breathing gas to a patient. The pressure reducing valve is structured to communicate a flow of breathing gas to such a patient's airway during an inspiratory phase. The pressure reducing valve is structured to isolate the flow of breathing gas from the patient's airway and to “dump” the flow of breathing gas and a flow of exhalation gas to atmosphere during the expiratory phase. The flow of breathing gas is dumped to atmosphere through a first number of ports; whereas a flow of exhalation gas is dumped to atmosphere through a second number of ports. Because the flow of breathing gas remains isolated from the flow of exhalation gas, less effort is required by a patient during the expiratory phase.
US08327844B2 Nasal delivery method
A delivery device (20, 22) for and a method of delivering a substance to the nasal airway (1) of a subject, in particular the posterior region of the nasal airway, the delivery device comprising: a closure unit for causing the closure of the oropharyngeal velum of the subject; and a delivery unit for delivering a gas flow entraining a substance to one of the nostrils of the subject at such a driving pressure as to flow around the posterior margin of the nasal septum and out of the other nostril of the subject, wherein the delivery unit comprises a nosepiece (30, 40, 58, 82, 102, 132) which includes an outlet through which the gas flow is in use delivered to the one nostril and a sealing member for sealing the one nostril to the outlet such as in use to prevent the escape of the gas flow through the one nostril.
US08327835B2 Door locking mechanism for an oven having french-style doors
A cooking appliance having first and second oven doors that combine to extend across and close off a frontal opening of a cooking chamber includes a latching mechanism for locking the first and second oven doors in a closed position. The latching mechanism includes a fixed support plate and a motor having an output shaft to which is rotatably mounted an eccentric drive member. Preferably, the motor is fixedly mounted to the support plate. The latching mechanism further includes first and second latch members each having a first end portion pivotally attached to the eccentric drive member extending to a second end portion defining a hook element. When the motor is activated, a guide mechanism directs the second end portions of the first and second latch members to a locking position leading the hook members into engagement with the first and second doors.
US08327833B2 Block splitting assembly and method
A masonry block that is produced from a workpiece that is split in a block splitting assembly which uses any of a variety of projections to supplement or replace the action of the splitting blade in splitting and dressing the workpiece. The resulting masonry block has features that provide the masonry block with a weathered appearance.
US08327823B2 Multi-fuelling an engine
A compression ignition engine is supplied with a first fuel in a flow of air and a second fuel is injected into the combustion chamber. The first fuel comprises a more volatile fuel than diesel such as ethanol, LPG or other combustible gas; the second fuel comprises diesel or biodiesel; and the second fuel is injected in multiple pulses in each ignition cycle with the first pulse acting as a pilot pulse to trigger ignition, and the timing of the second pulse being such as to modify the temperature through evaporation of the second fuel and thereby reduce the combustion temperature and mitigate knock susceptibility. Preferably the pilot pulse is followed by a single further pulse of the second fuel in the ignition cycle. The engine may be controlled to operate in two different modes, one mode for light and medium load conditions when there is only a pilot pulse injection of the second fuel which reduces NOx and soot emissions, and the other mode for higher load conditions when there is a pilot pulse injection followed by a main pulse injection of the second fuel. The first fuel may comprise bioethanol and or one or more of the following: ethanol, butanol, propanol, lpg, natural gas, hydrogen.
US08327822B2 Diesel engine
A diesel engine in which a lubrication oil on the wall surface of the cylinder liner is prevented from being burned and diluted, and a smoke resulting from the local lack of air in the combustion chamber is also prevented from being generated. The diesel engine comprises a group injection hole nozzle 20 and a piston 110. A step 115 having a height gradually increased toward the radial outer circumference of the piston is formed over the entire circumference of the top surface 111 of the piston. Furthermore, a tilted part 115b is formed as the step surface of the step 115.
US08327819B2 Constant velocity engine/technology
Constant velocity internal combustion engines/designs capable of converting linear motion to rotary motion or rotary motion to linear motion include a gearshaft rather than a crankshaft, at least one pair of opposed and reciprocating pistons, and the gearshaft controlling the reciprocal linear translation of the pistons.
US08327818B2 Apparatus and method for adding one or more additives to an engine lubricant
Apparatus and method for adding one or more additives to an engine lubricant, while the lubricant is circulating within an engine having an engine lubricant filter with a by-pass valve which opens when the pressure of the lubricant passing through the filter exceeds a pre-determined back-pressure value in which the apparatus further comprises an additive chamber containing one or more additives operably connected to the by-pass valve such that when the by-pass valve opens at the pre-determined back-pressure, at least some of the lubricant is caused to flow through the additive chamber and contact the one or more additives.
US08327817B2 Automotive engine bearing
A bearing for an automotive engine includes a base having a first bearing segment formed therein, and a bearing cap removably mounted to the base, with the bearing cap including fastener towers in contact with the base. A second bearing segment extends between the fastener towers. A number of non-contact stiffening ribs extend parallel to the fastener towers. The stiffening ribs are attached to outboard portions of the fastener towers. The stiffening ribs cause the bearing cap to avoid excessive flexing and distortion, while at the same time avoiding fretting corrosion which would occur were the clamp loads of the cap to the base be reduced by materially increasing the size of the fastener towers.
US08327812B2 Nucleate boiling cooling system
A cooling system for a liquid cooled internal combustion engine having coolant passages and a heat exchanger selected to operate the engine cooling system in the region of nucleate boiling. A sensor detects the presence of nucleate boiling and a variable volume chamber has a flexible diaphragm urged on one side by controlled air pressure and responsive to the sensor maintain the coolant system pressure at a level maintaining optimum nucleate boiling to increase heat flux from the engine and reduce overall size of the system.
US08327811B2 Rotary working machine
When a cooling airflow used for cooling an engine etc. is discharged to a side of a machine as a discharge airflow, the airflow can be prevented from blowing to trees located at the side of the machine and to walkers passing the side of the machine. A rotary working machine has, inside a bonnet (10), an engine (8) and a discharge type cooling fan (45). An opening (10b) for discharging cooling airflow is provided in a side of the bonnet (10), and a movable louver (50) having blades (52, 52, . . . ) is provided in a duct (48) placed between the opening (10b) and the cooling fan (45).
US08327808B2 Universal dog leash
A dog leash that is capable of serving a multitude of purposes. The dog leash is made of resilient material, allowing it to stretch, which decreases the stress on both the user and the dog. The leash can be configured to lead one dog or two dogs at the same time. The leash can be used as a hands free lead, worn around the user's waist or shoulder. When worn around the waist, it allows 360 degrees of movement by the dog. The lead is also capable of being used as a seat restraint in a motor vehicle or as a tether. The leash is readily adjustable, suited for all size dogs, and can be especially useful for service dogs.
US08327805B2 Adjoining extrusions for animal husbandry tunnel door panels
An animal husbandry tunnel door with adjoining extrusions for closing a tunnel ventilation opening typically in a broiler house has opposing faces with top, bottom and side edges. The faces sandwich an insulation layer. The adjoining extrusions have a first door top, bottom and side extrusion, along with a second door side edge extrusion. The first door top, bottom and side edge extrusions each have parallel inner prongs with barbs and adjacent parallel outer flanges forming two slots therebetween for receiving the top, bottom and side edges of the opposing door faces as the inner prongs with barbs pass into the insulation and are held thereat. The second door side edge extrusion has parallel inner prongs adjacent parallel outer flanges forming two slots therebetween for receiving the other side face edges as the inner prongs with barbs pass into the insulation and are held thereat. The second extrusion has second opposing parallel skirt flanges with inward distal barbs adapted to impinge upon, securely capture and hold the outer flanges of one of the first extrusions of a second adjacent tunnel door.
US08327793B1 Door knocker
A door knocker including a front display piece that is in the form of an alpha character piece including a front facing surface for display of the alpha character and a rear facing surface having at least one rearwardly directed flange member that forms part of a pivot means for the front display piece, and a rear support piece that is adapted for attachment to the face of the door. The rear support piece includes at least a first leg for pivotal engagement with the flange member and forming another part of the pivot means, a second leg that is for attachment to the door, and a third leg that forms a knocker that is selectively engageable with the rear facing surface of the alpha character piece.
US08327787B2 Rotating spray head and system for induced suction generation
A support head capable of generating suction upon the rotation thereof has a body that defines a first surface, a second surface opposing the first surface, a peripheral edge, and an open region formed in a central portion of the second surface. Work producing elements such as spray nozzles are mounted in the first surface. Each of a first plurality of holes extends between the first surface and the second surface. Each of a second plurality of holes extends between the peripheral edge of the body and the open region of the body. When the body is positioned over the surface with the first surface opposing same, suction forces are generated as the body is rotated.
US08327786B2 Hatch cover and associated personal watercraft system
A personal watercraft system includes a watercraft, a frame, and a cover. The watercraft includes a deck and a hull and defines a hatch providing access to a cargo hold. The frame is coupled with the watercraft and defines a channel on a side of the hatch and a cavity in communication with the channel. The cover includes a fabric portion and a rod extending along and coupled with a side margin thereof. The cover is secured to the personal watercraft on an opposite side of the hatch. When compression is applied to the rod, the rod flexes to fit within the channel aligning an end of the rod with the cavity. When the compression is subsequently removed from the rod, the rod returns to its original length and the end of the rod slides into the cavity securing the cover to entirely cover the hatch.
US08327778B2 Light weight portable fire resistant containment system
A lightweight portable fire resistant containment system has an outer shell and an inner shell that fits inside the outer shell, forming an insulating air gap. A lid closes the outer shell, defining a closed storage space. The outer shell, inner shell and lid are fabricated from high temperature resisting ceramic fibers and are bonded together with an inorganic or charred bond to form a light weight integral component. A stainless steel sheet wrap prevents ingress of flame and hot gas into the bonded ceramic fibers of the outer shell and lid. The inner shell outer surface has a metallic infrared reflecting wrap limiting radiation received from the inner surface of the outer shell. The inner surface of the inner shell has an encased ceramic porous body infiltrated with solidified phase change material, absorbing latent heat of fusion from the interior surface of inner shell and limiting temperature exposure of valuable stored documents and photographs.
US08327776B2 Pallet
A pallet 10 having a hollow double-walled structure formed by blow molding includes a first wall 13 on which a cargo is placed, a second wall 14 spaced apart from the first wall 13 by a predetermined distance, and inner ribs that connect the first wall 13 and the second wall 14. In the pallet 10, the inner ribs are respectively formed by continuously abutting and integrating end surfaces of first inner ribs 13a and 13b projecting from the first wall 13 toward a hollow portion and end surfaces of second inner ribs 14a and 14b projecting from the second wall 14 toward the hollow portion.
US08327775B2 Transport pallet
A transport pallet is provided with a chassis including feet on its underside from providing space for lifting using a fork lift truck or the like. The chassis is also provided with receptacles in the chassis for corner posts erectable at the corners of the chassis. The corner posts may also be provided with cross-members for increased stability. When not in use the corner posts and cross-members can be stowed in channels in the chassis, with the channels, posts and cross-members being color coded for ease of identification. The chassis can also be provided with straps for securing of the load.
US08327772B2 Low-floor railway vehicle bogie and low-floor railway vehicle comprising the bogie
A bogie for a low floor type railway vehicle, in which the accuracy of the distance between left and right wheels is enhanced and which enables a vehicle body to be low-floored. The bogie has a bogie frame for supporting the body of the railway vehicle, a main axle and an auxiliary axle arranged so as to laterally extend at the front and rear in the traveling direction of the bogie frame, wheels attached to both the left and right sides of each of the axles, shaft boxes attached to both the left and right sides of each of the axles and supporting the axle, and shaft box support devices respectively supporting each of the shaft boxes by elastically joining the shaft boxes and the bogie frame together. The wheels attached to the main axle are large-diameter wheels, and the wheels attached to the auxiliary axle are small-diameter wheels having a smaller diameter than the large-diameter wheels.
US08327770B2 Trolley braking system
A trolley for transporting the rider supported by a harness on a cable or rope, the trolley having a mounting plate configured with a connection point to receive the rider's harness, a pulley rotatably mounted to the mounting plate to support the plate on the cable or rope, and a friction shoe mounted on the plate forward of the pulley to contact the upper portion of the cable or rope, wherein the connection point is located beneath the cable or rope between the centers of the pulley and the friction shoe. The apparatus may also provide a manually operated brake handle to allow the rider to selectively apply braking force to reduce the speed of the trolley on the cable as desired.
US08327760B2 Cam slider shock absorbing member in cam device and mounting method thereof
In order to provide a cam slider shock absorbing member for a cam device which realizes a sufficient stroke, easy replacement, a compact profile, and an easy-to-machine property without necessity of adhesive agent, the shock absorbing member includes a mounting portion having an external dimension at least larger than an internal dimension of a mounting hole on the side of a lower end thereof and a deflecting portion having a predetermined distance for a deflecting margin with respect to an inner wall surface of the mounting hole on the upper side of the mounting portion, and an upper end of the deflecting portion projects upward from an opening end of the mounting hole and being formed to have a height which secures a length corresponding to the stroke to be compressed.
US08327755B1 Beverage brewer with power driven tubular hot water dispense valve and method
An electrical beverage brewer (10) having a controller (26) responsive to a start switch (72) to operate a brew cycle by dispensing hot water from a tank (42) to beverage ingredient within a brew basket (38) through a bent tube (78) mounted to the water tank (42) for rotation about an axis aligned with an external horizontal rotary section (90) of the bent tube (78) between a closed position in which an inlet (80) of a swinging tubular section (79) is in a relatively elevated, closed position and an open position at a lower elevation relative to the closed position. A rotary electromechanical solenoid (96), a pneumatic rotary solenoid (134) or a stepper motor (126) or other like rotary, drive mechanism requiring no positional sensors has a rotary axis aligned with the central axis of rotation of the rotary section (90) and axially linked, inline, with the rotary section (90) to axially drive the rotary section (90) and thereby move the swinging section (79) between the open position and the closed position without applying lateral forces to the rotary section (90).
US08327754B2 Coffee and tea pod
A pod for holding an amount of mixable material. The pod may include a circular sidewall and a base. The base may include a number of apertures. A substantially stiff filter paper may be positioned about the base.
US08327748B2 Robotic defilade system
A stout wall assembly which self-transports under remote control or onboard machine logic is disclosed. It combines three very well understood and proven technologies into a novel, new military system for creating protected positions behind very strong cover while a formation is in motion or stationary. The wall assembly is unmanned and is designed to sacrificially block any destructive effects directed at the protected object in its lee. It provides a non-pyrotechnical, passive, always-on, solid, physical barrier defense with no reaction or recycle time whatsoever, an unlimited duty cycle, and minimal possibility of fratricide or collateral damage. It can defeat or degrade kinetic energy, blast, fragmentation, fire, particulate, shaped charge, and high explosive squash head weapons and is uniquely capable against street-level improvised explosive devices.
US08327745B2 Punch assemblies and methods for modifying
A retain-and-release member, which is coupled to a punch holder of a punch assembly, engages a punch tip against an end of the holder, such that a working portion of the tip extends from the end. A punch guide sidewall of the assembly includes an aperture aligned with an actuation interface of the retain-and-release member, when the punch holder and the engaged punch tip are slidably engaged within a guide bore formed by the punch guide sidewall. The aperture provides access for applying a force, to the actuation interface, in order to disengage the retain-and-release member from the punch tip, while the punch holder remains within the guide bore of the assembly. Following the removal, the same punch tip, or another, may be inserted into the guide bore and into engagement with the retain-and-release member.
US08327741B2 Torque wrench and method for determining rotational angle of torque wrench
A torque wrench includes a wrench body, a torque sensor, an angle sensor, a gravity sensor and a processor. The wrench body can provide a torque to a workpiece. The torque sensor can sense whether the torque is greater than a predetermined torque value. The angle sensor can obtain a rotational angle value by measuring the rotation of the wrench body after the torque is greater than the predetermined torque value. The gravity sensor can sense the tilt angle of the wrench body. The processor is programmed to correct the rotational angle value according to the tilt angle of the wrench body.
US08327739B2 Wheel nut wrench and manufacturing process thereof
In order to provide a wheel nut wrench in which strength of a nut socket portion is allowed to be increased even though processes are facilitated under a situation where a tube made of carbon steel such as S45C is used as a material, and a manufacturing process thereof, an embodiment to implement the present invention is a wheel nut wrench made with a tube-shaped steel tube and provided with a nut socket portion at least one end, a nut socket shell portion whose inner and outer peripheries are both formed in a hexagonal shape is provided at an end portion of the steel tube, a sleeve made of a steel plate and having a cross section of a hexagonal shape is pressed into the nut socket shell portion, and a portion of the nut socket shell portion is deformed toward the sleeve to thereby achieve unification of the nut socket portion and the sleeve.
US08327737B2 Adjustable handlebar for a bicycle
A bicycle is disclosed. A direction control device thereof comprises a handlebar, a steering stem, two adjusting stems, and a quick switch device. The steering stem is connected to the main frame and comprises a longitudinal rod and a horizontal rod. Each adjusting stem comprises an adjusting main body, a first clamping portion, and a second clamping portion. Both ends of the horizontal rod are clamped by each first clamping portion; the handlebar is clamped by each second clamping portion. There are two clamping states of the first and second clamping portions: a fastening state and a non-fastening state. The quick switch device is coupled to each adjusting stem and controls the clamping state of each first clamping portion and each second clamping portion.
US08327728B2 Torque amplifying apparatus and system
Described is a torque amplifying device that is of centrifugal or gyroscopic type and has a unidirectional drive or drives. This device is used to control the body of a controlled object, such as an airplane, helicopter, land vehicle, cargo handling mechanism, earth moving machine or maritime device or vehicle. The torque amplifying devices are designed so that they supply a torque (momentum) to the body of the controlled object where it is connected. Thereby, the orientation or weight distribution of the body is controlled. The orientation is achieved without resorting to the physical properties of the surrounding environment (ground, water or air). Thus, it can apply a torque to this body in pitch, roll and/or yaw, so that it achieves the position or weight distribution the control system is calling for. The duration of the torque can be unlimited, until the conditions that produce it are intentionally changed.
US08327727B2 Probe tip
To eliminate or otherwise reduce unintended movement of a probe tip of a probe assembly being held by a probe arm, the probe assembly includes one or more resilient members that compensate for the contraction or expansion of the probe arm in accordance with the coefficient of thermal expansion of the material from which the probe arm is made. Thus, the probe tip can remain in contact with a sample being measured at the desired location on the sample, during an automated full or wide scale temperature range sweep.
US08327726B2 Microfluidic device
A microfluidic device includes a sample chamber accommodating a sample, a first sample distribution unit connected to the sample chamber and receiving the sample, a sample transfer unit connected to the first sample distribution unit and forming a path for transferring the sample, and including a first connection unit connected to the first sample distribution unit and a second connection unit, wherein the distance from the center of rotation to the second connection unit is greater than the distance from the center of rotation to the first connection unit, a second sample distribution unit connected to the second connection unit and receiving the sample transferred via the sample transfer unit after filling the first sample distribution unit, and first and second analysis units respectively connected to the first and second sample distribution units and analyzing ingredients of the sample.
US08327722B2 Rotary torque detecting device
There is provided a rotary torque detecting device in which a first magnetic body and a second magnetic body are formed in substantially band shapes and third magnetic bodies are formed in substantially rectangular shapes, respectively, by forming the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body in the substantially band shapes and arranging the plurality of substantially rectangular third magnetic bodies at predetermined intervals between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body, and the magnets. With this structure, in the rotary torque detecting device mainly used for detection of rotary torque of a steering of an automobile, it is possible to reliably detect the rotary torque at low cost.
US08327720B2 Air sampling apparatus and method
A sampling system includes a collection module including a gas handler, and a flow controller in communication with the gas handler of the collection module. The flow controller controls the gas handler to move a selected volume of gas through the collection module.
US08327719B2 Measuring transducer of vibration-type, as well as an in-line measuring device having such a measuring transducer
A measuring transducer comprising: a transducer housing, of which an inlet-side, housing end is formed by means of an inlet-side, flow divider having exactly four flow openings spaced, in each case, from one another and an outlet-side, housing end is formed by means of an outlet-side, flow divider having exactly four flow openings spaced, in each case, from one another; as well as exactly four, straight, measuring tubes connected to the flow dividers for guiding flowing medium along flow paths connected in parallel. The measuring transducer includes an electromechanical exciter mechanism for producing and/or maintaining mechanical oscillations of the four measuring tubes. The measuring tubes are excitable pairwise to execute opposite phase bending oscillations in, in each case, a shared imaginary plane of oscillation.
US08327716B2 Optical strain gauge
An optical strain gage incorporates an optical waveguide or fiber that includes a sensing section with a fiber Bragg grating, which serves for detecting a strain in a strainable member on which the strain gage is mounted. At locations displaced away from the fiber Bragg grating section, on both sides thereof, the optical waveguide is covered by two fastening elements, which secure the optical waveguide in a force-transmitting manner on the strainable member or a bottom support. Between the two fastening elements, a relatively soft elastic fixing material surrounds the optical waveguide and fixes the fiber Bragg grating section on the strainable member or bottom support in a form-fitting and force-isolating manner.
US08327711B2 Electrostatic capacitive vibrating sensor
An electrostatic capacitive vibration sensor has a substrate, a through-hole, a vibrating electrode plate, and a fixed electrode plate opposite the vibrating electrode plate. The fixed electrode plate is subjected to vibration to perform membrane oscillation. Pluralities of acoustic holes are made in the fixed electrode plate. The vibrating and fixed electrode plate are disposed on a surface side of the substrate such that an opening on the surface side of the through-hole is covered. A lower surface of an outer peripheral portion of the vibrating electrode plate is partially fixed to the substrate. A vent hole that communicates a surface side and a rear surface side of the vibrating electrode plate is made between the surface of the substrate and the lower surface of the vibrating electrode plate. In addition, the acoustic hole has a smaller opening area except at the outer peripheral portion.
US08327704B2 Angular velocity detection circuit, angular velocity detection apparatus, and failure determination system
An angular velocity detection circuit is connected to a resonator for making excited vibration on the basis of a drive signal and detects an angular velocity. The angular velocity detection circuit includes: a self-vibration component extraction unit that receives, from the resonator, a detection signal including an angular velocity component based on a Coriolis force and a self-vibration component based on the excited vibration and extracts the self-vibration component from the detection signal; a direct-current conversion unit including an integration unit that integrates an output signal of the self-vibration component extraction unit; and a temperature characteristic compensation unit that compensates for a variation due to a temperature in an output signal of the direct-current conversion unit.
US08327702B2 Adjustable measuring device
An adjustable measuring device that includes a container with a channel and a mating slider in the container. The slider is magnetically attached. Portion(s) not filled by the slider provide define at least one measuring chamber of variable volume depending on the positioning of the slider in the channel. Also, in an adjustable measuring device using a mating slider, measurement lines can be formed of elastomeric polymer to facilitate sealing.
US08327695B2 Restricted filter diagnostic system and method
A restriction diagnostic system for a vehicle comprises a pressure difference module and a diagnostic module. The pressure difference module determines a pressure difference between an ambient air pressure and a filtered air pressure measured at a location between an air filter and a valve that is selectively opened to enable ambient airflow through the air filter to a fuel vapor canister. The diagnostic module selectively diagnoses restriction of the airflow through the air filter when the pressure difference is greater than a predetermined pressure.
US08327694B2 Method for adapting mechanical tolerances of a timing wheel
Disclosed is a method for adapting mechanical tolerances of a timing wheel of a sensor unit of an internal combustion engine of a hybrid drive of a vehicle, the hybrid drive having at least one second motor, in particular an electric motor, in addition to the internal combustion engine, and the internal combustion engine being operated in a desired operating mode during adaptation operation. It is provided that the desired operating mode is performed in such a way that the internal combustion engine is driven using the second motor, in particular an electric motor, and no fuel is supplied to the internal combustion engine. A corresponding device is also disclosed.
US08327688B2 Gas permeation testing system
A system for the automated regulation of a gas permeation testing system is disclosed, wherein a control system in communication with a data processor facilitates more precise control of a pressurized fluid caused to flow through the gas permeation testing system.
US08327684B2 Method for adjusting resonance frequencies of a vibrating microelectromechanical device
The present invention relates to a method for adjusting the resonant frequencies of a vibrating microelectromechanical (MEMS) device. In one embodiment, the present invention is a method for adjusting the resonant frequencies of a vibrating mass including the steps of patterning a surface of a device layer of the vibrating mass with a mask, etching the vibrating mass to define a structure of the vibrating mass, determining a first set of resonant frequencies of the vibrating mass, determining a mass removal amount of the vibrating mass and a mass removal location of the vibrating mass to obtain a second set of resonant frequencies of the vibrating mass, removing the mask at the mass removal location, and etching the vibrating mass to remove the mass removal amount of the vibrating mass at the mass removal location of the vibrating mass.
US08327683B2 Composite materials and calibration assemblies using the same
Example composite materials and calibration assemblies using the same. An example calibration assembly for use in calibrating a downhole formation evaluation tool includes a first body comprising a first material and having a first geometry, a second body comprising a second material formed to receive the first body, wherein the first and second materials and the first geometry are selected so that a calibration property of the calibration assembly substantially matches a corresponding calibration property of a third material.
US08327675B2 Lock cylinder and matching key
A lock cylinder having: a cylinder core having a key channel for inserting a key which is provided with profiling; at least one feeler element which is disposed in the cylinder core, is acted on by a spring and is held in a blocking position by the spring when the key is not inserted in the key channel; and a blocking element which, when the feeler element is in the blocking position, is held in a blocking position which blocks rotation of the cylinder core. The feeler element can be shifted against the return force of the spring into a release position by the profiling on the matching key inserted into the key channel, in which position the locking element can be deflected into a position releasing the cylinder core. In order to enable the lock cylinder to lock more securely, the feeler element includes a feeler arm for feeling the profiling, which feeler arm protrudes radially from a shaft rotatably supported in the cylinder core and which feeler arm, when the matching key is inserted, is acted upon such that the shaft rotates about the axis thereof into the release position.
US08327674B2 Locking mechanism, for a padlock for example, in which a shackle can be severed for luggage inspection and then relocked
A locking mechanism (10) comprising a housing (16) and a shackle (14) having a first side (44) and a second side (46). The shackle (14) is slidable between a primary closed position in which the first and second sides (44 and 46) are each engaged with the housing (16) and a primary open position in which the first side (44) is engaged with the housing (16) and the second side (46) is free from the housing (16). A port (65) is provided in the housing (16) exposing a portion of the first side (44) of the shackle (14) in the primary closed position. Severing the shackle (14) through the port (65) allows the shackle (14) to move from the primary open position to a secondary open position, from which the shackle (14) can move back to a secondary closed position.
US08327672B2 Methods and systems for water delivery in an additive dispenser
A washing apparatus such as an automatic laundry washing machine includes a wash agent dispenser drawer including an additive compartment for storing various additives such as detergent, bleach and fabric softener. One or more water inflow tubes may extend downwardly into the additive compartment and may be configured to deliver water for diluting the additives contained in the compartment. The inflow tubes are of sufficient length to reach a sub-surface portion of additive held in the compartment. Water may simultaneously be delivered to the surface of the additive. Furthermore, inflow tubes have their outlets positioned adjacent to the base(s) of one or more siphon post/cap assemblies located in the additive compartments, such that a churning effect is produced from the injection of water through the tubes and the siphoning action of the siphon post, whereby mixing is enhanced and additive buildup may be avoided and/or removed.
US08327670B2 Motor controller and drum washing machine
A motor controller including a vector controller that controls a permanent magnet motor including a rotor being provided with a permanent magnet having a coercivity low enough to allow modification in amount of magnetization and that executes a vector control by detecting current flowing at the permanent magnet motor; a speed/position detector that detects a rotational speed and a rotational position of the permanent magnet motor; a magnetization controller that increases or decreases the magnetization of the permanent magnet depending on the rotational position of the permanent magnet motor through adjustment in status of the magnetization of the permanent magnet by way of armature counteraction; and a demagnetization detector that detects a decrease in the magnetization of the permanent magnet magnetized by the magnetization controller during operation of the permanent magnet motor.
US08327668B2 Gravity bending glass sheets
A gravity bending mold for bending glass sheets, the gravity bending mold comprising a peripheral shaping rail, the peripheral shaping rail having at least one end section, and at least one auxiliary rail mounted on the peripheral shaping rail, the or each auxiliary rail being respectively mounted adjacent to at least a portion of a respective end section by at least one mount that is adapted to permit relative vertical movement of the auxiliary rail with respect to the respective end section, a tripping mechanism for selectively and temporarily disposing the auxiliary rail in a raised position with respect to the respective end section, and a latch mechanism connected to the tripping mechanism, the latch mechanism being adapted to be engaged by an external actuator to cause relative vertical movement of the auxiliary rail with respect to the respective end section, by operation of the tripping mechanism, so that the auxiliary rail is subsequently disposed in a lowered position with respect to the respective end section. There is also provided a method of bending glass sheets using such a mold.
US08327664B2 Method of producing transparent conductive film glass
A method for producing transparent conductive glass by a) depositing two barrier layers on the surface of hot glass by chemical vapor deposition; and b) depositing two conductive film layers on the surface of the glass ribbon having the two barrier layers. The method is easy to control and suitable for mass production. The resultant transparent conductive glass has low surface resistance and moderate haze.
US08327659B2 Insulated cooler
A cooler is particularly configured for application of any selected design or marking. Any design may be easily applied to a standard cooler configuration. The design can be protected with a cover. The cooler also has structure for ease of mounting to different objects, and can be readily stacked. The lid can selectively retain cold or warm packs to cool or heat the interior.
US08327646B2 Forward sleeve retainer plate and method
In a combustor section, wherein a forward sleeve is disposed to encircle a leading end of an impingement sleeve comprised of first and second impingement sleeve parts abutted along a longitudinal junction thereof, a retainer member disposed to overlie the longitudinal junction. The retainer member is welded to at least one of said forward sleeve and the impingement sleeve. The retainer member has first and second axial end edges disposed transverse to the longitudinal junction, and at least one of the axial end edges has a cutout defined therein and disposed to overlie the longitudinal junction.
US08327644B2 Micro-turbine combustor
A micro gas turbine engine for use in a turbo heater or co-generation application is described. The micro gas turbine engine includes a fuel delivery system which minimizes the development of deposits in the air-fuel passageway. To this end, a fuel delivery channel formed between a fuel deflector and a slinger body is formed with a contoured or undulating surface. A fuel deflector ring is interposed between the fuel delivery channel and the slinger impeller to facilitate the flow of the air-fuel mixture into the combustion chamber.
US08327641B2 System for generation of power using solar energy
An electricity generation system is presented. The electricity generation system includes a solar preheater for preheating compressed discharge air, a combustor to receive the heated compressed air from the solar preheater, burn a fuel using the heated compressed air to generate hot burned gas, a first turbine to receive the hot burned gas from the combustor, expand the hot burned gas to generate exhaust gas, a heat recovery steam generator to receive the exhaust gas from the first turbine, generate vapor by heating a condensed fluid using the exhaust gas, a solar evaporator/superheater to receive a heated working fluid from the heat recovery steam generator, generate solar vapor by heating the heated working fluid, and a second turbine to drive a second generator using vapor and the solar vapor.
US08327640B2 Adjustment device on an exhaust-driven turbocharger
The present invention relates to an adjustment device (1) for adjusting a valve or a flap, in particular a pressure nozzle for actuating a bypass valve when a limit charge pressure on an exhaust-driven turbocharger is exceeded, which comprises a single- or multi-part housing (2), in particular a housing (2) having a housing lower part (3) and a housing lid. Essential to the invention is that a clip device (4) is provided, by means of which the adjustment device (1) is fastened to a part (6).
US08327634B2 Exhaust heat recovery system
An exhaust heat recovery system (10) includes: an exhaust heat exchanger (18) that is communicated with a catalytic converter (16) through an exhaust gas pipe (14A), and that recovers exhaust heat into a coolant; and heat transfer restriction means (50) provided between the catalytic converter (16) and the exhaust heat exchanger (18). The heat transfer restriction means (50) includes a heat insulator (56) disposed between a first exhaust gas pipe (52) and a second exhaust gas pipe (54) that constitute the exhaust gas pipe (14A), and. restrains a released heat from the catalytic converter (16) from reaching the exhaust heat exchanger (18).
US08327633B2 Exhaust pipe for vehicle-mounted engine
An exhaust pipe for a vehicle-mounted engine. An inner pipe inserted in an outer pipe contacts, at its outer end, with the inner peripheral surface of the outer pipe at a first position, the outer pipe contacts the inner pipe at a second position different from the first position, and thus an expansion chamber is formed between the inner pipe the outer pipe. The inner pipe includes a plurality of communication holes for communicating the inside of the inner pipe and the expansion chamber, thereby forming a muffler. An exhaust gas purification catalyst is provided within the outer pipe adjacent to the expansion chamber. On the inner peripheral surface of the outer pipe, a weir for stopping condensed water is provided between the outer end of the inner pipe and the exhaust gas purification catalyst. Consequently, in the exhaust pipe, deterioration of the purification function of the exhaust gas purification catalyst caused by contact of condensed water, which is produced when exhaust gas is cooled, with the exhaust gas purification catalyst can be suppressed.
US08327632B2 Exhaust system comprising catalysed soot filter
An exhaust system which has a catalysed soot filter (CSF), a control unit, and a catalyzed sensor. The exhaust system, controllable by the control unit, can increase hydrocarbon (HC) and/or carbon monoxide (CO) content in an exhaust gas flowing into the CSF resulting in combustion of the HC and/or CO in the CSF, a temperature increase of the CSF, and combustion of particulate matter collected on the CSF. The catalyzed sensor is disposed between an engine manifold and the CSF, and combusts CO and/or HC in the exhaust gas and inputs the control unit with a datum correlating with an enthalpy of combustion of HC and/or CO in the exhaust gas, thereby controlling the content of the combustible HC and/or CO in the exhaust gas flowing into the CSF. The catalysed sensor is the only catalysed component in the exhaust system disposed between the engine and the CSF.
US08327631B2 Air pollution control system for ocean-going vessels
A platform mounted emissions control unit includes a first system to reduce Particulate Matter (PM), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and a second system to reduce Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx). The systems serially process exhaust from a mobile or stationary pollution source. In one embodiment, first system is an Ionizing Wet Scrubber (IWS) and the second system is a Selective Catalytic Reducer (SCR), wherein the IWS processes the exhaust first to improve efficiency and service life of the SCR. A generator produces power required by the IWS and SCR, and heat from exhaust of the generator may be used convert urea to ammonia for use by the SCR, and to heat the exhaust flow into the SCR. The SCR may further include a heat exchanger to capture heat in the flow out of the SCR and use the captured heat to heat the flow into the SCR.
US08327627B2 Exhaust emission control device
Provided is an exhaust emission control device in which only a casing for a particulate filter can be easily taken out of position with a casing for a selective reduction catalyst being left on a vehicle body in a reliably supported state.The exhaust emission control device has a particulate filter 5 and a selective reduction catalyst 6 housed in casings 7 and 8, respectively, and arranged side by side with entry ends of them are directed in one and the same direction, and an S-shaped communication passage 9 which interconnects the casings 7 and 8 and is intermediately provided with urea water addition means 10. The communication passage 9 is intermediately provided with a separable portion for suitable separate-off, and the casing 8 for the selective reduction catalyst 6 is supported by a frame 15 on a vehicle body independently of the casing 7 for the particulate filter 5. The casing 7 for the particulate filter 5 is detachably mounted and supported on the vehicle body and on the casing 8 for the selective reduction catalyst 6.
US08327625B2 Method for regenerating soot filters in the exhaust gas system of a lean mix engine, and exhaust gas system therefor
To adhere to legal exhaust-gas regulations, the exhaust gases of a lean-burn engine must be freed from soot particles and nitrogen oxides. It is proposed that the cylinders of the lean-burn engine be divided into two groups which discharge their exhaust gases into two associated exhaust lines which each comprise a soot filter and which are merged at an opening-in point into a common exhaust line. The common exhaust line comprises the catalytic converter for the removal of the nitrogen oxides. By regenerating the two soot filters at different times, the exhaust-gas temperature in the common exhaust line is limited to a mean temperature between the exhaust-gas temperature of normal operation and that of regeneration operation, and the catalytic converter for the removal of the nitrogen oxides is preserved.
US08327624B2 System for purifying exhaust gas
A system for purifying an exhaust gas may include a catalyzed particulate filter trapping particulate matters contained in the exhaust gas, a diesel oxidation catalyst oxidizing carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon in the exhaust gas, a selective catalyst reduction apparatus reducing nitrogen oxide contained in the exhaust gas, a dosing module located upstream of the selective catalyst reduction apparatus and dosing a reducing agent into the exhaust gas, and a control portion controlling an operation of an engine, wherein the catalyzed particulate filter, the diesel oxidation catalyst, the selective catalyst reduction apparatus, and the dosing module are mounted on an exhaust pipe, and the selective catalyst reduction apparatus is mounted downstream of the catalyzed particulate filter and the diesel oxidation catalyst, and wherein the control portion controls flow of the exhaust gas and the engine to raise an exhaust gas temperature if a heating mode enter condition is satisfied.
US08327619B2 Method for operating an internal combustion engine
In a method for operating an internal combustion engine, the engine includes a plurality of cylinders each of which having at least one valve of a first type, an inlet valve, and at least one valve of a second type, an exhaust valve, arranged in an end part of the cylinder, each of the cylinders further having a piston movably arranged therein, the piston being adapted to reciprocate between a first end position and a second end position, wherein the first end position is located closer to the valves than the lower end position, the engine being adapted to allow deactivation of at least one cylinder by reducing its supply of fuel, the engine further being adapted to allow varying opening times of the inlet valves and/or the exhaust valves. The method includes extending the total opening time of at least one valve type of a deactivated cylinder compared to the opening time of the same valve type when the cylinder is active, the extension of the total opening time being performed such that at least one valve of the type is open at least partly both during a first engine stroke, wherein the piston moves in a direction towards its second end position, as well as during a second consecutive engine stroke, wherein the piston moves in a direction towards its first end position.
US08327618B2 Catalyst degradation determination device for internal combustion engine
A catalyst deterioration determination device for determining deterioration of an exhaust gas purging catalyst arranged in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The determination device forcibly changes an air-fuel ratio of an air-fuel mixture, calculates an oxygen occlusion amount of the catalyst based on an oxygen concentration of the exhaust gas at a downstream side of the catalyst that varies after the forcible changing of the air-fuel ratio, and performs deterioration determination on the catalyst based on the calculated oxygen occlusion amount. The determination device includes a prohibition unit which sets a prohibition period when calculating the oxygen occlusion amount after the increasing correction ends to prohibit calculation of the oxygen occlusion amount immediately after the increasing correction ends. The prohibition unit variably sets the prohibition period to be longer as a total increased amount of fuel during the increasing correction increases.
US08327610B1 Capsule opener and emptier
The present embodiments are directed to a medicinal extractor that may open and empty pharmaceutical capsules of variable sizes. The medicinal extractor may have a cover that swings open to expose an interior chamber for a powder-filled medication capsule to be dropped into, and the cover may then be closed. The medicinal extractor may have squeezable side depressors on each side for manually squeezing or holding the capsule in place horizontally. Once closed, the cover may be pushed down to compress two components of the medicinal extractor that are moveable with respect to each other. As the moveable components compress, the cover may press the capsule downward onto a hollow piercing element. The hollow piercing element may puncture the capsule to allow medication within the capsule to fall through the hollow piercing element and into a collection chamber or onto a surface below the medicinal extractor for collection.
US08327597B2 Construction method for wooden house and wall panel
A plurality of columns are erected with predetermined spacing on a groundsill. Then, a wall panel composed of a plurality of paulownia plates laminated, with the grains of the paulownia plates being crossed, is fixed between these columns. One surface of the wall panel is used as an external wall and the other surface of the wall panel is used as an internal wall to form the walls of the wooden house.
US08327595B2 Transition molding
The invention is a joint cover assembly for covering a gap adjacent an edge of a panel that covers a sub-surface, and a method of covering such a gap. The assembly includes a molding having a foot, a first arm, and a second arm. The foot is positioned along a longitudinal axis, and the first arm extends generally perpendicularly from the foot. The second arm extends generally perpendicularly from the foot. A tab depends generally perpendicularly from the first panel engaging surface. At least one of the tab and the foot engage the edge in order to tightly fit within the gap. The method includes the steps of placing the foot in the gap, pressing the respective panel engaging surfaces into contact with respective panels, and configuring at least one of the tab and the foot to cooperate to retain the molding in the gap when the assembly is in an installed condition.
US08327592B2 Structural reinforcing system components
A structural reinforcing panel system for reinforcing a structure against lateral or shear and uplift loads. The system includes a structural reinforcing panel which is installed between the studs in a wall of the structure. The panel is connected to the foundation of the structure and the sill or header. Two or more panels may be connected together at a corner, within a wall, ceiling or floor. The roof rafters of the structure may be attached to a top plate bracket mounted to the sill plate, which may also be connected to one or more structural reinforcing panels, provides uplift load support for the structure. For structures built on piers, a pier mount bracket provides a linkage to one or more structural reinforcing panels.
US08327591B2 Overhead panel and installation system
An overhead panel assembly for coupling to a drop ceiling includes a support channel and a clip coupling the support channel to a grid member of the drop ceiling. The overhead panel assembly further includes a vertical panel received over and coupled to the support member with a plurality of binding members. A plurality of clips, support channels, and vertical panels may be positioned in series along a drop ceiling to form a decorative soffit, valance, display, or other structure.
US08327590B2 Roofing system support assembly
A support assembly for supporting a retrofit roof to be installed above an existing roof made of preformed panels. Elongated support assembly members are positioned along the roof line to provide additional points of attachment for the new roof, while at the same time forming a substantially even plane for new roof panels. Some of the support members fit in the channels between the ridges of the preformed panels, which can be R-panels or standing seam panels. Transverse top members secure the channel-mounted members in place, while strapping members positioned atop the top members form additional lateral support for the new roof. A plurality of bracket support assemblies is secured between the top members to the roofing panels to elevate the new roof support. The bracket support assemblies are formed of two engageable parts to increase resistance to wind forces.
US08327589B2 Wall-mounted modular accessory system
A modular accessory system is supportable on a vertical surface such as a wall, an office divider, or the like and includes a framework that support panels and/or functional modules to provide a desired appearance and/or functions for use in an area. The panels and modules are repositionable, and some may be oriented in two or more different orientations on the framework. Engaging members are provided at spaced intervals along each panel and module, with additional engaging members provided at spaced intervals along the framework. The engaging members along the framework releasably engage the engaging members on the panels and modules to support them on the framework. In addition, brackets may be coupled to the framework in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, such as alongside any panel or module, to support accessories thereon. Electrical wiring may be routed through the framework to supply certain panels, modules, or accessories.
US08327578B1 Process for the off-season production of blackberries
Blackberries are grown so that an additional blackberry crop can be harvested after the normal blackberry growing season has ended. During the normal growing season a distal portion of a blackberry plant is rooted in a planting medium. After the conclusion of the growing season the distal portion is severed from the original plant so that the distal portion is independent form the original plant. After subjecting the distal portion to a chilling period, the distal portion is moved to a warmer climate (or simply warmed) and thereby produces a second harvest of blackberries in the off-season months of December to May.
US08327564B2 Repeatably displaceable emanating element display
One aspect relates to generating a repeatably displaceable emanating element display that may display at least part of an at least one synchronously modifiable oriented image based at least in part on alterable vehicle-related information, wherein the repeatably displaceable emanating element display may be synchronously modified as perceivable by a viewer at least partially by synchronizing an at least one repeatably displaceable display emanating element based at least in part on an orientation of the repeatably displaceable emanating element display as synchronously modified as perceivable by the viewer.
US08327559B2 Climate configurable sole and shoe
Disclosed are articles of footwear and soles therefor, in particular sports shoe soles that include openings for ventilation and vapor exchange. The soles include an insole layer with a plurality of first openings, a support layer with a plurality of second openings that partially overlap the plurality of first openings, and an outsole layer with at least one third opening that at least partially overlaps the plurality of second openings to provide fluidic communications through the sole from an interior of the shoe to an exterior of the shoe. A substantial portion of the plurality of first openings in the insole are interconnected to provide a path for diffusion. The shoes and soles can include a cushioning layer, a tread layer, a breathable membrane, and additional support elements. In addition, the shoes can be used with climate control socks to further enhance the climate control properties of the shoes.
US08327556B2 Hydraulic micrometer system for remote measurement of inside diameter of pipes
A hydraulic micrometer system for remote measurement of inside dimensions such as the inside diameter of long straight/curved pipes and tubes adapted to go deep inside any long straight/curved pipe/tube by way of provision of flexible operative connection there between the micrometer head adapted for traversal deep inside the pipe/tube and the like and a remotely located control unit. Importantly, the micrometer system preferably includes a three-point micrometer for measurement of dimensions of internal diameter and the like or a two point micrometer for measurement of depth of a slot or groove and the like features. Advantageously, the hydraulic micrometer system have applications in manufacturing industries, process industries, power plants, chemical plants etc., including in hazardous and humanly inaccessible positions. The system is user friendly including PC-based control, display and data analysis provision for wide industrial application and use.
US08327553B2 Device and method for determining vertical positions
The invention relates to a device and a method for determining the vertical spacing of objects while carrying out positioning tasks with a vertical travel portion. The object of providing a device and a method for determining the vertical spacing of objects while carrying out positioning tasks with a vertical travel portion, which, or with which, respectively, a vertical spacing determination can easily be carried out even after a power failure with a low outlay for apparatus, is achieved by a device for vertical spacing determination in that at least a first pressure sensor (4) is arranged on a first object (1) and at least a second pressure sensor (5) is arranged on a second object (2) and evaluation means are provided, the objects (1, 2) changing their vertical position relative to one another while the positioning is being carried out and the vertical travel portion between the positions of the objects (1, 2) being determinable by the evaluation means from the difference of the measured pressure values of the first and second pressure sensor (4, 5).
US08327549B2 Garden shears
A garden shears has a main cutting member, a minor cutting member, two applying arms, and two assembling members. The major and minor cutting members both have a first pivot aperture and an extended section. An end of each extended section is bent up to form an L-shaped pawl forming a first indentation; an arced limiting slot is adjacent to each first pivot, and a tool end is respectively formed at an opposite end of the major and minor cutting members. Each applying arm has a handle and an assembling portion, each assembling portion having a second pivot aperture and a second indentation. A top edge of each second indentation has driving teeth that respectively engage with the L-shaped pawls of the major and minor cutting members. Each assembling member has a third pivot aperture and two fourth pivot apertures corresponding to the first pivot apertures and the second pivot apertures.
US08327542B2 Method for the production of a drop-forged balancing shaft
The invention relates to a method for the production of a drop-forged balancing shaft for a mass balancing gear of an internal combustion engine. The balancing shaft has an unbalanced plane formed by the rotational axis thereof and an eccentric mass center of gravity, and at least one bearing journal, the outer lateral surface of which serves as a track for a rolling bearing supporting the balancing shaft in the internal combustion engine. To this end, the balancing shaft is to be forged in a forging die having a parting plane extending in the direction of the rotational axis and rotated in relation to the unbalanced plane.
US08327539B2 System and method for facilitating proper assembly of an exhaust system
A system and method are disclosed for facilitating proper assembly of an exhaust system. The system includes a first modular exhaust treatment unit connectable to a second modular exhaust treatment unit. At one end, the first modular exhaust treatment unit includes a substantially continuous collar that integrates a first docking element therein. The second modular exhaust treatment unit includes a second docking element configured to engage the first docking element. When connected, the first and second docking elements operate to rotationally align and properly order the first and second modular exhaust treatment units.
US08327531B2 Production system general-purpose cell
In a production system general-purpose cell for general-purpose use in processing and transportation of a received workpiece in a production system of processing and delivering the workpiece, the production system general-purpose cell includes a base unit having a planar shape of quadrangle and supporting at least a robot for use in transportation of the workpiece such that the robot is movable on the planar area of quadrangle, a parts supply unit for supplying parts of the workpiece to the robot supported by the base unit, and a processing area extending outside the base unit. The robot supported by the base unit having a motion range set in a range from inside to outside the base unit in a form including at least part of the processing area.
US08327526B2 Isolated active temperature regulator for vacuum packaging of a disc resonator gyroscope
A micromachined thermal and mechanical isolator for MEMS die that may include two layers, a first layer with an active temperature regulator comprising a built-in heater and temperature sensor and a second layer having mechanical isolation beams supporting the die. The isolator may be inserted between a MEMS die of a disc resonator gyroscope (DRG) chip and the leadless chip carrier (LCC) package to isolate the die from stress and temperature gradients. Thermal and mechanical stress to the DRG can be significantly reduced in addition to mitigating temperature sensitivity of the DRG chip. The small form can drastically reduce cost and power consumption of the MEMS inertial sensor and enable new applications such as smart munitions, compact and integrated space navigation solutions, with significant potential cost savings over the existing inertial systems.
US08327525B2 Magnetic head slider testing method
A step portion for mounting a row bar is provided at a table stepping down from the face of the table, and by lowering a pair of hooks crossing over the step portion in its width direction, a row bar held by the hooks is mounted on the step portion. While interposing the row bar mounted on the step portion between a pair of hooks and a side face of the step portion, the side in longitudinal direction of the row bar and the bottom face thereof are butted to the bottom face and the standing up side face of the step portion to position two axes of the row bar among XYZ directions, successively, positioning of the row bar in one remaining direction along longitudinal direction of the row bar mounted on the step portion is performed by moving the table in the one remaining axial direction.
US08327512B2 Slide switch for buckle apparatus
A slide switch installed in a buckle apparatus includes a body 20, a slider 30 held slidably in the body 20, the slider 30 sliding when pressed by a movable part of the buckle apparatus, fixed contacts 41 to 43 placed in a direction in which the slider slides, on a surface of the body 20 that faces the slider 30, a movable piece 44 sliding on the surface of the body 20 on which the fixed contacts 41 to 43 are placed. The slider 30 has a size that obscures the fixed contacts 41 to 43 in the entire range in which the slider 30 slides. The fixed contacts 41 to 43 are unlikely to be affected by foreign matter etc. and adherence of foreign matter that degrades performance can be prevented.
US08327506B2 Socketing material and speltered assembly for terminating tension member
A socketing material (16), or mortar, for speltering wire rope, strand, and other tension members (14), comprising 35%-55% AL2O3; 32%-52% SiO2; 0%-20% CaO; and 0%-2% Fe2O3. The material (16) may have a continuous-use temperature of at least 1000 degrees, at least 2000 degrees, or at least 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. A speltered assembly (10) is produced by introducing the material (16) into and allowing it to cure within a cavity (24) of a terminal fitting (12) around the ends of a plurality of wires (31) of a tension member (16) which are arranged within the cavity (24) in a spaced-apart relationship.
US08327502B2 Centrifugal dehydrating device for mop
A centrifugal dehydrating device includes a bucket receiving a cylinder for receiving a mop. A shaft is mounted to a bottom of the cylinder. An annular sleeve is formed on the bottom of the cylinder and engaged with an annular fender on a mounting plate. A water fender includes a skirt having a top portion with an annular groove for receiving a rim of the cylinder. An annular wing extends radially inward from the top portion of the skirt. Water splashing upward from the cylinder during rotation of the cylinder is stopped by the annular wing. A top seat is fixed to a bottom side of the mounting plate and receives a gear train. The gear train meshes with and is driven by a rack on a pedal such that stepping of the pedal causes rotation of the gear train, the shaft, and the cylinder.
US08327486B2 Deployable ramp assembly
A deployable ramp assembly including a fixed ramp portion and a pivotable ramp portion connected thereto through a direct pivot connection to pivot between stowed and deployed positions defined at a first angle from one another, a cover member pivotally connected to the fixed portion to pivot between closed and opened positions defined at a second angle from one another which is substantially smaller than the first angle, a drive assembly pivoting the cover member between the closed and opened positions, and a multiplier assembly interconnecting the pivotable portion and the cover member to transfer the pivoting motion of the cover member to the pivotable portion in an amplified manner, the multiplier assembly bringing the pivotable portion in the stowed position when the cover member is in the closed position and the pivotable portion in the deployed position when the cover member is in the opened position.
US08327483B1 Foldable pillow
A foldable pillow (10) is disclosed having a pillow base (11) and a flexible strap (12) coupled to and spanning the pillow base. The pillow base is generally rectangular in shape having a top surface layer (14) and a bottom surface layer (15) which form an outer covering. The pillow strap is coupled to the pillow base closer to one end side (18) than the other end side. In use, the pillow may be folded and maintained in a folded configuration by tucking one end of the pillow below the strap.
US08327478B2 Fabric case
A mattress and/or seat cushion for reducing pain and anaesthetization of parts of the human body include a stretchable fabric case made of textile threads and elastomer or rubber threads woven together to form a stretchable fabric. The case has a top layer with a top surface and a bottom surface and a bottom layer with a top or inner surface and a bottom or outer surface and the size to cover a cushion for a seat or mattress that fits on a cot or bed. The seat cushion or mattress also includes a relatively thin resilient pad disposed within the fabric case adjacent the bottom surface of the top layer and includes a number of passageways extending therethrough. In addition, a mass of cleaned sand and mountain salt is disposed within the fabric case below the resilient pad and below the bottom layer. Also included is a means for pumping air and medication into and out of the mattress which will impinge upon and pass around the body of an individual in order to wholly or partly enclose the person in a micro climate to promote healing, prevent bed sores and the like.
US08327476B1 Beach towel with anchoring means
A modular beach towel with an integral anchoring means designed to help keep the towel from blowing away while in use comprising additional enhancements is herein disclosed. The beach towel further comprises a plurality of grommets located along corner and perimeter areas. Each grommet receives a stake, thereby holding the beach towel down to a ground surface. The beach towel is fabricated of a layered textile assembly with internal cushioning, further having a removable protective waterproof mat and an attachable food and drink holder. The beach towel apparatus also comprises reflective zippered pouches at each corner position that provide storage of personal items as well as aiding in identifying the towel from a distance. The corner pouches may also be loaded with sand or weights to provide additional anchoring.
US08327475B2 Bedding foundation having nestably stackable spring assembly welded to border wire with generally rectangular cross-section
A bedding foundation having a nestably stackable spring assembly, including a border wire having a generally rectangular cross-section. The foundation's spring assembly may be nestably stacked with numerous other such assemblies for transportation, thereby avoiding the need to compress and tie the assembly for shipping. Each foundation assembly includes a number of corrugated support wires having alternating peaks and valleys. The border wire is generally rectangular in cross-section to reduce wire costs without compromising beam strength of the border wire.
US08327473B2 Sauna device
A sauna cabinet is humidified and heated without airborne perceivable water drops by the use of a fine spray. The user can thus remain comfortably in the sauna cabinet that is free of airborne perceivable water drops. The user's view is also not clouded by mist. Accordingly, the user can enjoy viewing images and reading books in the sauna cabinet, and a user's sensible temperature distribution in the sauna cabinet is also uniform. This sauna equipment thus provides uniform temperature and humidity even in a large bathroom. The sauna equipment includes a first circulator and a second circulator for circulating air in the sauna cabinet, an air heater for heating supplied air, and a water atomizer for turning supplied water into fine water drops.
US08327468B2 Vest insert for tactical training
The vest insert for tactical training is an insert kit for retrofitting an outer tactical vest or the like for tactical training purposes. The vest insert includes front and rear training plates adapted to be removably received within front and rear pockets of front and rear carriers of an outer tactical vest. Each of the front and rear training plates has an opening formed therethrough to indicate that the plate is for training purposes. Each of the front and rear training plates is formed from polyvinyl chloride. Additionally, a pair of front and rear fabric panels are provided to replace the inner panels of the outer tactical vest, each of the front and rear fabric panels being formed from woven polyvinyl chloride. The training plates and the front and rear fabric panels are sized and shaped to match the inserts and inner panels of a typical outer tactical vest.
US08332953B2 Receiving policy data from a server to address theft and unauthorized access of a client
Techniques for securing a client. When a client, such as a portable computer, undergoes a change in operational state, an operating system agent sends a state message to a server. The state message describes the change in the operational state of the client. The operating system agent is one or more software modules that execute in an operating system of the client. The client receives a policy message from the server. The policy message contains policy data, which a BIOS agent stores in the BIOS of the client. The policy data identifies one or more security policies which the client should follow.
US08332944B2 System and method for detecting new malicious executables, based on discovering and monitoring characteristic system call sequences
The invention relates to a method for detecting malicious executables, which comprises: in an offline training phase, finding a collection of system call sequences that are characteristic only to malicious files, when such malicious files are executed, and storing said sequences in a database; and, in runtime, for each running executable, continuously monitoring its issued run-time system calls and comparing with the stored sequences of system calls within the database to determine whether there exists a match between a portion of the sequence of the run-time system calls and one or more of the database sequences, and when such a match is found, declaring said executable as malicious.
US08332930B2 Secure use of user secrets on a computing platform
A computing platform (20) is adapted for secure use of trusted user input. The computing platform (20) comprises a user input device (14), a first isolated operating environment (21) for execution of applications requiring use of trusted user input, a second isolated operating environment (22) adapted for secure processing of information relating to a user, and a third isolated operating environment (23) adapted for secure communication with the user input device (14). In this computing platform, no isolated operating environment can communicate with another isolated operating environment other than by a secure path (26, 27) therebetween. When an application executing in the first isolated operating environment requires provision of trusted user input, the user provides user input through the user input device (14) to the third isolated operating environment (23). The user input is then provided to the second isolated operating environment (22), and the second isolated operating environment (22) provides a service relating to the trusted user input as required by the application executing in the first operating environment (21).
US08332928B2 Location attestation service
In one embodiment a computer system comprises a processor and a memory module coupled to the processor and comprising logic instructions stored in a computer readable medium. The logic instructions, when executed, configure the processor to initiate, in a client computing device, a service request, in response to the service request, initiate a request for a location attestation certificate, and complete the client service request when the location attestation certificate is granted.
US08332920B2 Token-based client to server authentication of a secondary communication channel by way of primary authenticated communication channels
The disclosure relates to authenticating a secondary communication channel between a client application and a server application when an authenticated primary communication channel has already been established between the client application and a resource application, on which the server application can store a generated authentication token that only privileged users including the client application user can read-access and send back to the server application by way of the secondary communication channel.
US08332914B2 Mobility access gateway
A gateway for mobile access includes a foreign agent that receives user profile data and session state data from a home authentication, authorization and accounting (AAA) system of a mobile node, and a dynamic packet filter that performs multi-layer filtering based on the user profile data. The foreign agent transfers a session from a first network to a second network without session interruption, using the session state data, when the mobile node moves from the first network to the second network. The packet filter permits Internet access by the mobile node without passing Internet data requested by the mobile node through the first network.
US08332910B2 Method and apparatus for selective data control
A method of selectively controlling communication between a supervisory processor and a subscriber is provided. The method includes receiving a stream of data at the supervisory processor, controlling transmission of the stream of data from the supervisory processor to the subscriber based on an associated supervisory processor configuration, receiving an enabling configuration at the supervisory processor which alters the supervisory processor configuration, and transmitting at least a portion of the controlled stream of data from the supervisory processor to the subscriber based on the supervisory processor configuration.
US08332909B2 Automated software restriction policy rule generation
Software restriction policy rules can be automatically generated by parsing through a specified metadata source and generating the rules in accordance with indicated preferences. Metadata sources can include storage locations, such as folders, in which case rules for each executable file in the folder can be generated. Metadata sources can also include trusted publisher stores, installation logs, difference files, and other like data sources. Indicated preferences can select from among rules based on the publisher, for files that are signed, or rules based on hashes or path information for unsigned files. In generating rules to prevent the execution of specified files, if an optimized set of rules is desired, a check can be made to determine if an exception to an existing rule can be generated instead of a new rule. The automated parsing of the indicated metadata source can provide for both completeness and correctness.
US08332907B2 Detection and management of controlled files
A remote device may receive a policy definition, search a file system for files that are to be protected, and disposition identified files to protect the files. After completing the protection, a report is generated and transmitted to a centralized location. The policy definition may include keywords, directory paths, metadata, or other information that may be used to identify files for protection. After identification, the files may be dispositioned by removal, tagging, encrypting, applying rights management, or other actions.
US08332893B2 Hybrid channel map
A hybrid channel map is described. In an implementation, a client obtains a plurality of channel maps, each from a respective one of a plurality of content providers that are configured to provide content via channels to the client. A hybrid channel map is formed from the plurality of channel maps.
US08332887B2 System and/or methods for distributing advertisements from a central advertisement network to a peripheral device via a local advertisement server
Certain exemplary embodiments disclosed herein relate to systems and/or methods for distributing advertisements from a central advertisement network to one or more peripheral devices at a location via a local advertisement server. In certain exemplary embodiments, the local advertisement server within a location receives advertisements from the central advertisement network and rebroadcasts them to peripheral devices within that location. Advertising information may be tracked and reported, e.g., for accounting, revenue-sharing, and/or other purposes in certain exemplary embodiments. Thus, in certain exemplary embodiments, the distribution of advertisements is provided to peripherals via a non-web- and non-PC-dependent network. Moreover, in certain exemplary embodiments, reporting and advertising related communications are substantially bi-directional regardless of device type. Certain exemplary embodiments provide revenue sharing among some or all of the central advertising network provider, the proprietors of locations, operators tasked with maintaining the local ad server and/or the peripheral devices, etc.
US08332885B2 System and method for content delivery with multiple embedded messages
A digital video program is obtained. The program includes: (i) at least one broadcast segmentation message specifying at least one location for at least one broadcast advertisement, and (ii) at least one time-shifted segmentation message specifying at least one location for at least one time-shifted advertisement. The program is broadcast with at least one broadcast advertisement in accordance with the at least one broadcast segmentation message, and is made available to a subscriber at a time after the broadcasting, with at least one time-shifted advertisement in accordance with the at least one time-shifted segmentation message.
US08332880B2 Information storage disk dispensing apparatus with a disk inclining member
An information storage disk dispensing apparatus includes a frame, a disk drive and a disk inclining member. The disk drive is connected to the frame and includes a tray. The tray includes a receiving area and has an ejected position. The disk inclining member is mounted on the frame over the receiving area of the tray when the tray is at the ejected position to incline a disk pulled by gravity to fall vertically.
US08332879B2 Optical disk drive
The present invention provides an optical disk drive that performs a stable lock operation with a small number of components at the time of the insertion of a tray. The optical disk drive has a locking mechanism which engages the inserted tray with the chassis, a reset arm provided in the tray to return the locking mechanism to the initial state, and an engaging boss that is provided in the chassis and is engaged with the reset arm. The tray has a projecting portion for controlling the engagement position between the reset arm and the engaging boss. The projecting portion comes into contact with a back surface of the engaging boss, to control the engaging amount between the reset arm and the engaging boss to be constant.
US08332874B2 Application executing terminal
An application executing unit 4 makes a request for assignment of a remote control button to an application currently being executed, a button assignment management unit 5 carries out an assignment process of assigning the remote control button to the application, and a user interface unit 2 inquires of the button assignment management unit 5 about an application corresponding to a remote control button indicated by a remote control code received by a remote control code receiving unit 1 shows, and notifies a predetermined event associated with the application to the application executing unit 4.
US08332868B2 Period generation toolset
Methods, systems, and program products for generating time periods and/or due dates are provided. One method comprises providing a period toolset that is accessible by a calling program to perform a plurality of functions performed during runtime. The functions include defining a plurality of period types based on a period duration selected by the calling program. The functions further include generating a first period stream based on one of the period types. The functions further include mapping the first period stream to a second period stream based on one or more mapping rules selected by the calling program. The functions further include determining a due date for one or more periods of at least one of the first period stream and the second period stream based on one or more due date rules selected by the calling program.
US08332867B2 Methods and devices for sending transmission-time or reception-time information for a transmitted or received message
Upon reception of a message which is relevant to synchronization, the circuitry in a device forms a piece of reception-time information and this information is inserted into or appended to the received message and forwarded such that the reception-time information can be received by at least one synchronization application in the device. When a message is transmitted, the circuitry in the device forms a piece of transmission-time information, and this information is sent to at least one synchronization application initializing the message in the device. A fundamental advantage can be seen in that the economic outlay, particularly the outlay in terms of circuitry, for implementing the synchronization of the clocks and the determination of the communication-network or transmission-medium delay times, particularly on the basis of the IEEE standard 1588, m is substantially reduced.
US08332863B2 Fair share scheduling based on an individual user's resource usage and the tracking of that usage
Fair share scheduling to divide the total amount of available resource into a finite number of shares and allocate a portion of the shares to an individual user or group of users as a way to specify the resource proportion entitled by the user or group of users. The scheduling priority of jobs for a user or group of users depends on a customizable expression of allocated and used shares by that individual user or group of users. The usage by the user or group of users is accumulated and an exponential decay function is applied thereto in order to keep track of historic resource usage for a user or group of users by one piece of data and an update timestamp.
US08332858B2 Lock suitability analysis during execution of computer program under test
A method and computer program product for detecting an attempt to engage a synchronization object. A tracking list for a line of code that attempted to engage the synchronization object is updated.
US08332844B1 Root image caching and indexing for block-level distributed application management
Described herein is technology for, among other things root image caching and indexing for block-level distributed application management. The technology involves storing blocks of a root image on a first storage unit and storing blocks of leaf images on respective second storage units. The leaf images include additional data blocks not previously contained in the root image and changes made by respective compute nodes to the blocks of the root image. The technology includes caching blocks of the root image that have been accessed by at least one compute node. The technology also includes receiving indexing results pertaining to the root image from one compute node and providing the results for other compute nodes.
US08332841B2 System and method for creating platform-specific self-extracting client packages using a production server
System and method for creating platform-specific self-extracting client packages using a production server are described. In one embodiment, the method comprises compiling a source file on a first build server comprising a first computing platform to produce a first executable seed file for the first computing platform and compiling the source file on a second build server comprising a second computing platform to produce a second executable seed file for the second computing platform; and providing the first and second executable seed files to a production server comprising the first computing platform. The production server uses the first executable seed file to create a first client package and a second client package, wherein the first client package is designed to be installed and execute on a first workstation running on the first computing platform and the second client package is designed to be installed and execute on a second workstation running on the second computing platform.
US08332838B2 Systems and methods for updating device software
Methods and systems for updating device software are disclosed, including a method for updating an information handling system, the method comprising: rebooting the information handling system; loading operational software for operating the information handling system; applying one or more updates to the operational software to obtain updated operational software; and executing the updated operational software.
US08332831B1 Software-to-hardware compiler with symbol set inference analysis
A software-to-hardware compiler is provided that generates hardware constructs in programmable logic resources. The programmable logic resources may be optimized in terms of being configured to make additional copies of regions on memory devices other than on the programmable logic resources (e.g., RAM). This facilitates multiple reads during a single clock cycle. Symbol set analysis is used to minimize the size of regions to allow for more efficient use of hardware resources.
US08332802B2 Systems, methods, and programs for leakage power and timing optimization in integrated circuit designs
A method, system and program for reducing or optimizing leakage power consumption in an integrated circuit produced in accordance with an integrated circuit model. A fast corner timing database and configurable timing constraints are used in conjunction with hold cell logic to identify a set of cells that should not be modified. A leakage optimization procedure is responsive to a slow corner timing database and timing constraints for a slow corner. The procedure is configurable and includes the repair of register transition violations. The procedure is performed on a select number of paths before an adjusted timing slack value is determined and cells are addressed in response to the number of failing timing paths associated with a cell. Some embodiments generate information in a router compatible format that identifies a desired modification to the top-level integrated circuit design.
US08332800B2 Method for identifying redundant signal paths for self-gating signals
A method for identifying and removing redundant signal paths includes determining whether a given input to a logic circuit is coupled to both an input of a cone of logic of a data input of a clocked state element and a clock gate circuit that is coupled to disable a clock input to the clocked state element. The method may include removing the given input from the cone of logic such that the given input is no longer coupled to the input of the cone of logic responsive to determining that the given input is coupled to both the input of the cone of logic and the clock gate circuit. The method may include preserving the given input to the clock gate circuit such that the given input continues to be coupled to the clock gate circuit after being removed from the input of the cone of logic.
US08332796B2 FPGA with hybrid interconnect
An Application-Specific Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) device or fabric is described for use in applications requiring fast reconfigurability of devices in the field, enabling multiple personalities for re-using silicon resources (like arrays of large multipliers in DSP applications) from moment-to-moment for implementing different hardware algorithms. In a general purpose FPGA device or fabric, this fast reconfigurability is normally implemented by special reconfiguration support circuitry and/or additional configuration memory. Unfortunately, this flexibility requires a large amount of programmable routing resource and silicon area—limiting the viability in volume production applications. This invention describes how multi-program FPGA functionalities may be migrated to smaller die by constructing implementations with a hybrid FPGA/ASIC interconnect structure. These implementations retain multi-program capability while requiring a much smaller silicon area than a conventional FPGA when customized for a particular set of user applications.
US08332791B2 Package designs for fully functional and partially functional chips
A method including obtaining an operational status of a first processor core, where the first processor core is associated with a plurality of processor cores located on a chip; configuring a first IO block of a package design based on the operational status of the first processor core, where the package design is based on a fully functional chip; and configuring a stackup of the package design after configuring the first IO block for use with the chip.
US08332788B1 Generating a module interface for partial reconfiguration design flows
A method of processing a logical netlist for implementing a circuit design within a programmable integrated circuit includes identifying a dynamically reconfigurable module (DRM) comprising a port from the logical netlist. The DRM defines a dynamically reconfigurable region of the integrated circuit that communicates with a module that is not dynamically reconfigurable via the port. First circuitry of the DRM and circuitry external to the DRM are implemented. The first circuitry connects to the circuitry external to the DRM via the port. The circuitry external to the DRM is within the module that is not dynamically reconfigurable. The method further includes locking routing resources connecting the circuitry external to the DRM to a location associated with a boundary of the DRM for the port; and implementing second circuitry of the DRM by reusing the locked routing resources. The second circuitry is routed to connect to the location associated with the boundary of the DRM for the port.
US08332784B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device is provided having a physical pattern based on a designed pattern, the designed pattern including a target pattern and a correction pattern designed for a pattern to be formed on a wafer; the target pattern includes a first portion of an edge with a first distance, a second portion of the edge with a second distance, which is different from the first distance, and a third portion of the edge having a first region of the edge with the first distance and a second region of the edge with the second distance; and the correction pattern is added to at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion such that the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are caused to differ from one another in dimensions of the designed pattern.
US08332783B2 Control of critical dimensions in optical imaging processes for semiconductor production by extracting imaging imperfections on the basis of imaging tool specific intensity measurements and simulations
Variations in critical dimensions of circuit features of sophisticated semiconductor devices may be reduced by efficiently extracting mask and/or imaging tool specific non-uniformities with high spatial resolution by using measured intensity values and simulated intensity values. For example, a tool internal radiation sensor may be used for measuring the intensity of an image of a lithography mask, while a simulated intensity enables eliminating the mask pattern specific intensity contributions. In this manner, high spatial resolution of the corresponding correction map may be obtained without undue effort in terms of man power and measurement tool resources.
US08332780B2 Method and system for displaying drop down list boxes
A method and system for displaying a drop down list box. The method and system may include associating a history record with a drop down list box. The method and system may also include associating a filter box with the drop down list box. the method and system may also include associating a unique identifier with each choice in the drop down list box. The method and system may also include associating a hierarchical structure containing more detailed information about choices in the drop down list box with the drop down list box. Finally, the method and system may include displaying the choices in the drop down list box to a user as a function of at least one of the associated history record, filter box, unique identifier, or hierarchical structure.
US08332779B2 Information processing apparatus, method, and storage medium containing information processing program with rotary operation
There is provided a novel menu selection method in a mobile phone. Also provided is a cursor displaying method with which a user can intuitively recognize a moving direction and moving speed. In addition, a novel scrollbar with which the user can recognize, in a case of displaying menus beyond a display screen, a range currently displayed on a display screen among all the menus and a current cursor position within the menus displayed on the current display screen.
US08332766B2 Methods and systems for preventing unauthorized access to patient information
An exemplary method includes displaying a graphical user interface configured to include a patient list displayed therein, receiving user input representative of a search term comprising one or more characters selected to identify a particular patient included within a plurality of patients, dynamically updating the patient list in response to the received user input to only include a plurality of entries that contain the search term, each of the entries comprising patient information associated with a distinct one of the patients, and preventing one or more non-search term characters contained within each of the entries of the patient list from being displayed within the graphical user interface. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed.
US08332765B2 Problem reporting system based on user interface interactions
A system for reporting and analyzing problems encountered by computer users. The system includes a recording tool executing on a user computer to capture a sequence of user interactions in the context of a graphical user interface. When a problem or other stop event is encountered, the tool generates a report indicating user interactions leading to the stop event, including information such as the specific sequence of controls for specific programs accessed by the user. The report can be analyzed to identify a sequence of user interactions characteristic of a problem type, which in turn may be used to find a solution for a particular user's problem. The system may also include a server that receives and analyzes reports from multiple computer users to identify patterns of user interactions that characterize problem types. This information may be used for associating specific problems with future reports or to improve products.
US08332762B2 Mobile terminal and message inbox searching method thereof
A mobile terminal including a wireless communication unit configured to establish an Instant Messaging (IM) service with at least one other terminal, an input unit configured to receive a designation signal corresponding to a designation of a portion of information included in chat content input during the IM session, a memory configured to store the designated portion of information, a controller configured to receive an input search signal requesting a message inbox including at least one previous IM session conducted on the mobile terminal be searched for the designated portion of information, and to search the message inbox to determine if the at least one previous IM session includes the designated portion of information upon receiving the input search signal, and a display configured to display a part of chat contents of the at least one IM session that includes the designated portion of information when the searching step determines the at least one previous IM session includes the designated portion of information.
US08332755B2 Force-feedback within telepresence
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates replicating a telepresence session with a real world physical meeting. A telepresence session can be initiated within a communication framework that includes two or more virtually represented users that communicate therein. A trigger component can monitor the telepresence session in real time to identify a participant interaction with an object, wherein the object is at least one of a real world physical object or a virtually represented object within the telepresence session. A feedback component can implement a force feedback to at least one participant within the telepresence session based upon the identified participant interaction with the object, wherein the force feedback is employed via a device associated with at least one participant.
US08332748B1 Multi-directional auto-complete menu
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques completing a user entry in an entry field displayed on a user interface of a computing device. An entry field is displayed on a display of a computing device. In response to a user entering at least one character into the entry field, two or more distinct auto-complete menus are displayed. Each auto-complete menu is included in a separate display element, and each auto-complete menu contains suggestions that correspond to the current at least one character in the entry field. A computer-implemented method for pre-fetching search query results is also described.
US08332735B1 Generating a log-likelihood ratio for signal processing
A method for decoding an encoded message is described. The method includes obtaining a set of metrics which includes first and second state metrics, and first and second branch metrics. First and second offset values for the iteration are obtained. The first state and branch metrics are added together to obtain a first partial result. The second state and branch metrics are added together to obtain a second partial result. The second partial result is subtracted from the first partial result to obtain a difference. The first partial result and the first offset value are added together to obtain a first result. The second partial result and the second offset value are added together to obtain a second result. Either the first result or the second result is selected for output responsive to the difference. A log correction term is selected responsive to the difference.
US08332734B2 Rate matching device and method for a date communication system
A device and method for rate matching channel-encoded symbols in a data communication system. The rate matching device and method can be applied to a data communication system which uses one or both of a non-systematic code (such as a convolutional code or a linear block code) and a systematic code (such as a turbo code). In one aspect, the rate matching device includes a plurality of rate matching blocks, the number of the rate matching blocks being equal to a reciprocal of a coding rate of a channel encoder. The rate matching device can rate match the symbols encoded with a non-systematic code or the symbols encoded with a systematic code, by changing initial parameters including the number of input symbols, the number of output symbols, and the puncturing or repetition pattern determining parameters.
US08332733B2 Transmitter and system for transmitting/receiving digital broadcasting stream and method thereof
A digital broadcasting transmission system processes dual transport stream (TS) including multi turbo streams. The digital broadcasting transmission system includes a turbo processor to detect a turbo stream from a dual transport stream (TS) which includes a multiplexed normal stream and a turbo stream, encoding the detected turbo stream and stuffing the encoded turbo stream into the dual TS; and a transmitter to trellis-encode the processed dual TS, and to output the resultant stream, wherein the turbo processor encodes the turbo stream using a plurality of turbo processors. Accordingly, a plurality of turbo streams may be processed in parallel.
US08332732B2 Common air interface supporting single carrier and OFDM
A matched filter is configured for matching an input signal to a plurality of programmable-length complementary Golay-code pairs. The matched filter includes a sequence of delay elements configured for delaying the input signal with respect to at least one delay vector. A sequence of programmable seed vector insertion elements is configured for multiplying the input signal and delayed versions of the input signal by a set of seed-vector values. At least one of the seed-vector values may be set to zero to facilitate processing Golay codes having different lengths.
US08332724B2 Data retrieval systems
Embodiments of methods and systems for controlling access to information stored on memory or data storage devices are disclosed. In various embodiments, methods of retrieving information from a data storage device previously deactivated by modification or degradation of at least a portion of the data storage device are disclosed.
US08332718B2 Efficient implementation to perform iterative decoding with large iteration counts
Systems and methods are presented to improve the performance of a constant bit rate iterative decoder by providing elastic buffering, while utilizing a relatively simple decoder architecture capable of maintaining a fixed number of iterations of a lower value. An LDPC decoder can be designed, for example, to support less than the maximum possible number of iterations, and can, for example, be mated to elastic input and output buffers. If a given code block, or succession of code blocks, requires the maximum number of iterations for decoding, the decoder can, for example, run at such maximum number of iterations and the elastic input buffer can, for example, hold code blocks waiting to be processed so as to maintain a constant input rate. Alternatively, if one or more code blocks requires less than the nominal number of iterations, the output buffer can store those code blocks so as to preserve a constant output rate. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
US08332716B2 High rate turbo encoder and decoder for product codes
The invention relates to a method of decoding a matrix built from concatenated codes, corresponding to at least two elementary codes, with uniform interleaving, the matrix having n1 lines, n2 columns and n1*n2 symbols, the method comprising processing all the lines- and columns-vectors of the matrix by symbol groups, the processing comprising a first decoding to simultaneously process all the symbols of a group of symbols according to their lines and then a second decoding to simultaneously process all the symbols of said group of symbols according to their columns, the symbol groups being thus successively processed in lines and in columns, or conversely.
US08332714B1 Defect recovery for iteratively-decoded data channel
In iterative decoding, a data recovery scheme corrects for corrupted or defective data by incorporating results from a previous decoding iteration. In one embodiment, a final multiplexer selects between the final detector output or a previous detector output based on the absence or presence of defective data. In another embodiment, the branch metrics for the defective data, which otherwise would be combined with a priori LLRs from an outer decoder of a prior stage, are ignored so that the a priori LLRs themselves are used alone. The two embodiments can be used together.
US08332712B2 Apparatus and method for supporting hybrid ARQ in broadband wireless communication system
An apparatus and method for supporting Hybrid Automatic Repeat reQuest (HARQ) in a broadband wireless communication system are provided. A method of performing HARQ by a Mobile Station (MS) in a wireless communication system includes receiving a control message including resource allocation information, decoding the control message, if the decoding is successful, determining whether a previous control message is lost, and if the previous control message is lost, transmitting one of a null signal and a specific indicator through a response channel.
US08332708B2 Data transmission with multi-level ACK/NACK feedback
Techniques for transmitting and receiving data with multi-level feedback of acknowledgement (ACK) and negative acknowledgement (NACK) are described. In an aspect, a receiver may send a NACK if high peak-to-average-power ratio (PAPR) is detected for a transmission of a packet. A transmitter may adjust at least one transmission parameter (e.g., increase back-off of a power amplifier) in response to receiving the NACK from the receiver. In another aspect, a receiver may send a NACK of a first type (NACK Type 1) if high PAPR is detected for a transmission of a packet and may send a NACK of a second type (NACK Type 2) if the packet is decoded in error. A transmitter may treat NACK Type 1 and NACK Type 2 in similar manner and may send another transmission of the packet.
US08332699B2 Scan insertion optimization using physical information
In an embodiment, a design methodology and tools to implement the methodology are used to perform scan insertion in an integrated circuit design. The physical location of the scan chains within the boundaries of the integrated circuit may be determined, and the methodology may use the physical information to perform the scan insertion. For example, the physical information may include the location of the inputs and outputs of the scan chains, as well as routability data indicating the ability to insert interconnect in the integrated circuit to make the desired scan connections. The location and routability information may be used to group scan chain inputs and outputs for, e.g., compression/decompression logic. Using physical data to insert scan compression/decompression logic may reduce the amount of area occupied by the scan logic and connectivity, in some embodiments.
US08332696B2 Defect management method for storage medium and system thereof
A defect management method for a storage medium is provided. An initial check is performed on the storage medium, and then diving the storage medium into blocks, which at least include a using data area with endurance blocks. Each endurance block is given an initial endurance value. Then, an endurance table is established in the storage medium for recording endurance blocks and the initial endurance values. According to the endurance table, data is written to the storage medium based on its importance. When the writing cycles reach a predetermined times, the endurance values are recalculated and the table is updated accordingly. Data is then moved according to the new endurance values.
US08332693B2 Method and apparatus for failure notification
A method and an apparatus for failure notification are provided. The method includes: sending, when it is detected that a failure occurs in a multicast label switch path, failure information to a downstream node of a multicast tree where a failed point locates, where the multicast label switch path is established based on a multicast label distribution protocol; and forwarding the failure information through the downstream node, where the failure information arrives at a leaf node of the multicast tree where the failed point locates. According to the method and the apparatus for failure notification of the present invention, finally, the failure information is transmitted to a leaf node. After the failure information is obtained, the leaf node may take appropriate measure to ensure the normal service and improve the reliability of the network.
US08332689B2 Systems, methods, and computer program products for instant recovery of image level backups
Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for instant recovery of a virtual machine (VM) from a compressed image level backup without fully extracting the image level backup file's contents to production storage. The method receives restore parameters, initializes a virtual storage, and attaches the virtual storage to a hypervisor configured to launch a recovered VM. The method stores virtual disk data changes inflicted by a running operating system (OS), applications, and users in a changes storage. The method provides the ability to migrate the actual VM disk state (taking into account changed disk data blocks accumulated in changes storage) so as to prevent data loss resulting from the VM running during the recovery and accessing virtual storage, to production storage without downtime. In embodiments, the method displays received restore parameters in an interactive interface and delivers the recovery results via an automated message.
US08332679B2 Methods and apparatuses for managing power by leveraging intermediate power margins
Exemplary embodiments of methods and apparatuses to manage a power of a system that leverage intermediate power margins are described. One or more subsystems of the system are operated at one or more performance points. A power consumed by the one or more subsystems at each of the one or more performance points is measured. An operational power of the one or more subsystems at the one or more performance points is determined. The one or more subsystems are operated at well-known conditions at the one or more performance points. The operational power may be adjusted based on data associated with the one or more subsystems. The operational power is provided to a power lookup table. The power is distributed among the one or more subsystems based on the operational power.
US08332676B2 Methods of preparing a power saving state, universal serial bus device and universal serial bus host
Methods of preparing a power saving state, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device and a USB host are provided. A method of preparing a power saving state comprises sending a request from a USB device to a USB host, the USB host being connected to the USB device via a USB and the request requesting that the USB host shall stop any bus traffic on the USB. Another method of preparing a power saving state comprises receiving, at a USB host, a request from a USB device, the USB device being connected to the USB host via a USB and the request requesting that the USB host shall stop any bus traffic on the USB. A USB device and a USB host are configured to carry out the respective methods.
US08332665B2 Methods and apparatuses for dynamic power control
Methods and apparatuses for dynamically budgeting power usage in a data processing system. In one aspect, a data processing system, includes: one or more first components capable of being dynamically throttled to a plurality of different performance level settings; one or more second components; and one or more power usage sensors. The one or more power usage sensors are to determine information on power usage during a first time period of operation of the data processing system. The one or more first components and the one or more second components may include a computing element to determine one of the performance level settings of the one or more first components of the data processing system for a second time period subsequent to the first time period using the information on the power usage during the first time period.
US08332658B2 Computer system, management terminal, storage system and encryption management method
A computer system in which an encryption-decryption process performed by one encryption-decryption module can be moved to another without stopping the process for a read/write request from a host computer. The computer system has a host computer, and a storage system for storing encrypted data. The storage system provides a storage area for accepting access from the host computer. In performing a process for changing the data encrypted and stored by the destination source, the move destination encrypts the data decrypted by the move source which further encrypts and stores the data encrypted by the move destination, and after all data is stored, the move source decrypts and stores the further encrypted data.
US08332657B1 Global copy protection system for digital home networks
A method for providing local security of audio and video content during transmission and storage within digital home networks. Scrambled content may be recorded in all conditions, however, only authorized copies are processed for descrambling and viewing. Content is protected within a network by rebundling the keys required for descrambling, e.g., the TDES keys, into a new ECM (LECM), which is protected by a local public key.
US08332651B2 Method of generating a password protocol using elliptic polynomial cryptography
The method of generating password protocols based upon elliptic polynomial cryptography provides for the generation of password protocols based on the elliptic polynomial discrete logarithm problem. It is well known that an elliptic polynomial discrete logarithm problem is a computationally “difficult” or “hard” problem.
US08332649B2 Authentication system, signature creating device, and signature verifying device
A signature generating device generating digital signature data for certifying authenticity of information of a person, and obfuscating the information. The signature generating device includes a storage unit storing attribute information concerning the person and a private key corresponding to the attribute information, an obfuscated information generating unit selecting one or more pieces of dummy information in relation to the attribute information, and generating the obfuscated information including the attribute information and the dummy information; and a public key obtaining unit obtaining a public key corresponding to the attribute information and public keys respectively corresponding to the dummy information. The signature generating device also includes a signature generating unit generating digital signature data by performing a ring signature generation process to the obfuscated information, using the private key and the public key corresponding to the attribute information and using the public keys corresponding to dummy information.
US08332644B2 Cryptographic techniques for a communications network
Techniques are described for enabling authentication and/or key agreement between communications network stations and service networks. The techniques described include the negotiation and use of a cryptographic primitive shared between a service network and a home environment of a station. The techniques described also feature a key usage indicator, such as a sequence number, maintained by the service network and a station. Comparison of the key usage indicators can, for example, permit efficient authentication of the service network.
US08332641B2 Authenticated debug access for field returns
Under the direction of a first party, an integrated circuit (IC) device is configured to temporarily enable access to a debug interface of the IC device via authentication of the first party by a challenge/response process using a key of the IC device and a challenge value generated at the IC device. The first party then may conduct a software evaluation of the IC device via the debug interface. In response to failing to identify an issue with the IC device from the software evaluation, the first party can permanently enable open access to the debug interface while authenticated and provide the IC device to a second party. Under the direction of the second party, a hardware evaluation of the IC device is conducted via the debug interface that was permanently opened by the first party.
US08332636B2 Secure policy differentiation by secure kernel design
A method, computer program product, and data processing system are disclosed for ensuring that applications executed in the data processing system originate only from trusted sources are disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, a secure operating kernel maintains a “key ring” containing keys corresponding to trusted software vendors. The secure kernel uses vendor keys to verify that a given application was signed by an approved vendor. To make it possible for users to execute software from independent software developers, an administrative user may disable the above-described vendor key-checking as an option.
US08332632B2 Method and system for execution monitor-based trusted computing
A system and method to ensure trustworthiness of a remote service provided by a service provider. The method includes monitoring runtime dependencies invoked during execution of a service transaction associated with the remote service, the service transaction being requested by a service requester. The method further includes determining whether a deviation exists between the runtime dependencies and a trusted list of dependencies associated with the remote service. The method also includes blocking execution of the service transaction based on determining that the deviation between the runtime dependencies and the trusted list of dependencies exists.
US08332631B2 Secure software licensing and provisioning using hardware based security engine
Provisioning a license and an application program from a first server to a computing platform over a network. The host application derives a symmetric key at least in part from a user password, and sends the license to a license management firmware component of a security engine, in a message signed by the symmetric key. The license management firmware component derives the symmetric key at least in part from the user password stored in a secure storage of the security engine, verifies the signature on the message using the symmetric key, verifies the first server's signature on the license, decrypts the license using a first private key of the license management firmware component corresponding to the first public key to obtain the second key, and sends the second key to the host application, which decrypts the application program using the second key.
US08332625B2 Method and apparatus to provide failover capability of cached secure sessions
A method, apparatus and computer program product for providing failover capability of cached secure sessions is presented. A cached secure session involving a first device and a second device is identified. The cached secure session is encrypted and replicated to a failover device. The encrypted session is then decrypted on the failover to device. An occurrence of a hot failover involving the second device is detected, and processing resumes between the first device and the failover device.
US08332618B2 Out-of-order X86 microprocessor with fast shift-by-zero handling
An out-of-order execution microprocessor includes a register alias table configured to generate a first indicator that indicates whether an instruction is dependent upon a condition code result of a shift instruction. The microprocessor also includes a first execution unit configured to execute the shift instruction and to generate a second indicator that indicates whether a shift amount of the shift instruction is zero. The microprocessor also includes a second execution unit configured to receive the first and second indicators and to generate a replay signal to cause the instruction to be replayed if the first indicator indicates the instruction is dependent upon the condition code result of the shift instruction and a second indicator indicates the shift amount of the shift instruction is zero.
US08332617B2 Online backup system with global two staged deduplication without using an indexing database
An encryption for a distributed global online backup system with global two-stage deduplication in the absence of an indexing database where data blocks are encrypted using their SHA-1 signatures as encryption keys.
US08332616B2 Methods and systems for vectored data de-duplication
The present invention is directed toward methods and systems for data de-duplication. More particularly, in various embodiments, the present invention provides systems and methods for data de-duplication that may utilize a vectoring method for data de-duplication wherein a stream of data is divided into “data sets” or blocks. For each block, a code, such as a hash or cyclic redundancy code may be calculated and stored. The first block of the set may be written normally and its address and hash can be stored and noted. Subsequent block hashes may be compared with previously written block hashes.
US08332607B2 Non-volatile memory storage device and operation method thereof
A non-volatile memory storage device has a non-volatile memory, e.g., a flash memory, and a controller coupled to the non-volatile memory. The controller comprises a plurality of control circuits and an arbitration circuit. Each control circuit is configured to generate a request to update the chip-enable (CE) signals for non-volatile memory, and the arbitration circuit is configured to determine when the requests are acknowledged. The arbitration circuit generates acknowledge signals to the control circuits when all of the requests of the control circuits have been received by the arbitration circuit. The CE signals for non-volatile memory are updated when requests are acknowledged.
US08332605B2 Reorganization of a fragmented directory of a storage data structure comprised of the fragmented directory and members
A directory and members are allocated to store a data set, wherein the directory stores pointers to the members to allow data stored in the members to be accessed. The directory is expanded to accommodate an expansion of the data set, causing the directory to be stored in non-contiguous pages and becoming fragmented. A computational device determines that a threshold that measures a level of fragmentation of the directory relative to an amount of storage allocated for the data set has been exceeded. The computational device reorganizes the fragmented directory, into a reorganized directory that is stored in contiguous pages at the end of the data set, in response to determining that the threshold has been exceeded.
US08332603B2 Dual writing device and its control method
A computer system and method which stores path definition information including a storage ID, a volume ID, and validities of paths between a host computer and a first or second storage system identified by the storage ID for accessing a volume identified by the volume ID in one of the storage systems, sends an I/O request via the paths, based on the path definition information, receives information indicating the storage and volume IDs, and updates the path definition information. During initial copying from the second to the first volume, validity corresponding to a first path is set to “Invalid” and validity corresponding to a second path is set to “Valid”. After completion of initial copying, the validity corresponding to the first path included in the path definition information is changed to “Valid.”
US08332601B2 Storage controller having virtual volume
To shorten time necessary for performing backup of data in a virtual volume managed by a storage controller to a backup destination storage device. A secondary volume including storage areas of the same number as the number of first primary virtual areas is created with respect to a primary virtual volume (a virtual logical volume to be an I/O destination from an external device) including plural primary virtual areas. The first primary virtual areas are primary virtual areas to which actual areas are allocated. Data copy is performed from the primary virtual volume to the secondary volume. At the time of backup to the backup destination storage device, data backup is performed from the secondary volume to the backup destination storage device.
US08332596B2 Multiple error management in a multiprocessor computer system
An error message handling buffer comprises a first buffer and a second buffer. A first index is associated with the first buffer and a second index is associated with the second buffer. A buffer controller is operable to write and read messages in the buffer, such that messages are written to the buffer of the first and second buffers that has a buffer index value lesser than the buffer size, and read from the other of the first and second buffers, the other buffer having an index value greater than or equal to the buffer size.
US08332595B2 Techniques for improving parallel scan operations
Various technologies and techniques are disclosed for improving performance of parallel scans. Disk head randomization that occurs when performing a parallel scan is minimized by assigning a worker entity to each disk involved in the parallel scan, and by ensuring data is only accessed on a respective disk by the worker entity assigned to the disk. A parallel scan can be performed that is NUMA aware by ensuring a particular sub-set of data is resident in the same memory node during each parallel scan, and by ensuring the particular sub-set of data is processed by a worker entity assigned to a node in which the sub-set of data is resident. A process for performing a parallel scan involves breaking up work into sub-sets, assigning work to each worker entity that corresponds to a respective disk, and having the worker entities process the assigned work to complete the parallel scan.
US08332589B2 Management of write cache using stride objects
Method, system, and computer program product embodiments for, in a computing storage environment for destaging data from nonvolatile storage (NVS) to a storage unit, identifying working data on a stride basis by a processor device are provided. A multi-update bit is established for each stride in a modified cache. The multi-update bit is adapted to indicate at least one track in a working set. A schedule of destage scans is configured based on a plurality of levels of urgency. A destage operation is performed based on at least one of a number of strides examined by the destage scans, whether the multi-update bit is set, and whether an emergency level of the plurality of levels of urgency is active.
US08332586B2 Information processing system for measuring the cache effect in a virtual capacity
The present invention obtains with high precision, in a storage system, the effect of additional installation or removal of cache memory, that is, the change of the cache hit rate and the performance of the storage system at that time. For achieving this, when executing normal cache control in the operational environment of the storage system, the cache hit rate when the cache memory capacity has changed is also obtained. Furthermore, with reference to the obtained cache hit rate, the peak performance of the storage system is obtained. Furthermore, with reference to the target performance, the cache memory and the number of disks and other resources that are additionally required are obtained.
US08332582B2 Storage system, storage device, and control method thereof
A storage system including a storage device which includes media for storing data from a host computer, a medium controller for controlling the media, a plurality of channel controllers for connecting to the host computer through a channel and a cache memory for temporarily storing data from the host computer, wherein the media have a restriction on a number of writing times. The storage device includes a bus for directly transferring data from the medium controller to the channel controller.
US08332575B2 Data management systems, methods and computer program products using a phase-change random access memory for selective data maintenance
A data management system includes a data processor configured to provide a file system module configured to store first data in a flash memory in block units and a filter layer module configured to receive second data from the file system module and to store the second data in a phase-change random access memory (PRAM) in sub-block units. The filter layer module may be configured to identify difference data in the second data received from the file system module by comparing the received second data and third data stored in the PRAM, and to write the identified difference data to the PRAM. The second data may include file metadata and the first data may include data other than file metadata. The sub-block units may be byte units.
US08332573B2 Method and apparatus for performing address mapping in virtual file system of storage unit having a plurality of non-volatile data storage media
Provided are a method and apparatus capable of reducing a metadata processing time associated with address mapping performed to input/output burst data at a high speed in a virtual file system of a storage unit having a plurality of non-volatile data storage media. The method includes: determining a block group including a block included in each of a plurality of the non-volatile data storage media; determining an access unit including each page included in the determined block group; and mapping an address of input/output data to the determined block group and the access unit. Therefore, it is possible to significantly reduce an address mapping processing time in the virtual file system that may function as a bottleneck in high-speed input/output in a large-capacity storage unit.
US08332570B1 Methods and systems for defragmenting virtual machine prefetch data on physical storage
A computer-implemented method for defragmenting virtual machine prefetch data. The method may include obtaining prefetch information associated with prefetch data of a virtual machine. The method may also include defragmenting, based on the prefetch information, the prefetch data on physical storage. The prefetch information may include a starting location and length of the prefetch data on a virtual disk. The prefetch information may include a geometry specification of the virtual disk. Defragmenting on physical storage may include placing the prefetch data contiguously on physical storage, placing the prefetch data in a fast-access segment of physical storage, and/or ordering the prefetch data according to the order in which it is accessed at system or application startup.
US08332565B2 USB dongle correlating a device class to the protocol of a wireless device
A USB device includes: a communication section that is capable of wirelessly communicating with a communication device that supports a predetermined communication standard; a USB communication section that is capable of communicating with a USB host device; and a connection section that, when a connection to the communication device is requested under the condition that a connection to the USB host device is requested, determines whether or not a protocol supported by the communication device is any of multiple protocols, and establishes the connection to the USB host device through the USB communication section using a device class corresponding to the determined protocol.
US08332562B2 System to reduce the time and complexity of self configuring systems
A system and method for testing a self configuring computer which includes a computer system. Sensors electrically communicating with respective electrical connectors in the computer system. The sensors detecting when the electrical connector has a change of status from a previous start up. The sensor indicating a state change when the connector has a change of status. The computer system electrically communicating with the sensor for detecting the sensor state. The computer system initiating a power up and a self test of the connector and a new device connected to the connector using the program upon start up of the computer system when a change in the state of the sensor indicates a change in the status of the connector. The computer system by-passing a power up and self test of the connector when there is no change in the state of the sensor.
US08332561B2 Network adapter, method, and computer program product
A network adapter for plugging into a host computer is provided. The network adapter may include an internal memory and connection means for connecting the host computer to a communications network. The network adapter may include resident application software stored in the network adapter's internal memory, whereby the resident application software automatically activates when the network adapter is plugged into the host computer.
US08332553B2 Method and apparatus for accessing a contacts database and telephone services
Embodiments described herein provide a method and technique for operating a computing device. An interface is displayed for enabling the computing device to control a voicemail system. The interface includes one or more display objects, wherein each display object is selectable by a user to enter a command input assigned to that display object. A selection is detected of any one of the one or more display objects, and the command input assigned to the display object is identified. A signal tone is generated corresponding to the command input. The signal input may be transmitted across a network to the voicemail system to communicate a command to the voicemail system.
US08332547B2 Power exchange device, power exchange method, program, and power exchange system
A power exchange device includes: a connection portion that is connected to another device; a wireless communication portion that performs wireless communication with a power exchange device in the vicinity; a power exchange portion that exchanges power with the power exchange device in the vicinity; a power management portion that causes the power exchanged by the power exchange portion to be input and output between the connection portion and the other device; and a power control portion that, after the wireless communication portion has performed the wireless communication with the power exchange device in the vicinity, controls whether to cause the power exchange portion to exchange power with the power exchange device in the vicinity depending on a power source state of the other device.
US08332546B2 Fully asynchronous direct memory access controller and processor work
An apparatus generally having a processor and a direct memory access controller is disclosed. The processor may be configured to increment a task counter to indicate that a new one of a plurality of tasks is scheduled. The direct memory access controller may be configured to (i) execute the new task to transfer data between a plurality of memory locations in response to the task counter being incremented and (ii) decrement the task counter in response to the executing of the new task.
US08332545B1 USB switch which allows primary USB connection in response to USB signaling
System and method controlling connectivity within a device. A device may be coupled to a host device. In response to the coupling, low power logic (e.g., an embedded device) of the device may be coupled to the host device. The low power logic may perform enumeration with the host device using only power provided by the host device. The low power logic may also charge a battery of the device using power provided by the host device. Device circuitry of the device may provide a signal for coupling to the host device. In response, the device circuitry may be coupled to the host device and may perform device enumeration with the host device.
US08332538B2 Hierarchical application programming interface for communication middleware in partially connected mobile ad hoc networks
An application programming interface and related system is presented for a middleware communication space that provides asynchronous message delivery service for partially connected mobile ad hoc networks. Embodiments of the present invention use mobile devices to bridge separated islands of networks and store and propagate messages. The system and software architecture supports methods for messaging caching, transferring and routing. More specifically, embodiments provide methods and systems that extend a communication space concept into a distributed environment and combine it with the standard Web Services technologies, i.e, SOAP, and WS series protocols. The communication space provides an extension of Web Services to mobile ad hoc networks and provides asynchronous message caching, transferring and routing.
US08332535B2 System and method for providing privacy and limited exposure services for location based services
A system and method is provided for providing privacy and limited exposure services for location based services. The system includes at least one module configured to provide fictitious location or route information of a mobile user to selected users or group of users based on a mobile user provided profile.
US08332534B2 Techniques to improve multiple collocated device networking over single wireless communication networks
An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus, comprising a wireless station (STA) capable of communicating with an access point (AP), wherein the STA is capable of representing itself to the AP as a Group-of-Stations. The Group-of-Stations may be a plurality of networking devices (such as virtual stations) in an embodiment of the present invention and the Group-of-Stations may be defined by adding an Information Element (IE) to an Association/Reassociation request; or the Group of Stations may be defined by using masking operations on a MAC address.
US08332521B2 Internet-pad specification, the internet-pad specification may include a touch sensitive screen, a digital camera, a document application, an e-mail application, icons over the touch sensitive screen for user selection, a wireless communication unit for wireless connectivity, a digital content application for playing digital content, and an operating system supporting application programming interface (API)
An Internet-Pad is disclosed and enabled. The Internet-Pad is a mobile digital Pad with access to Internet. The product specification of the Internet-Pad may include a digital camera, a touch sensitive screen, a graphical user interface over the touch sensitive screen, an e-mail application, an editing application, an Internet browsing application, an Internet-Pad operating system, and a wireless communication unit for accessing a wireless network. The e-mail application including a GUI with icons over the touch sensitive screen for selection. The Internet-Pad operating system may provide an object model or an application programming interface (API) to facilitate one or more applications to run at the Internet-Pad. The Internet-Pad may include applications for managing digital documents, audio digital content, or video digital content for rendering or playing. The digital content may be encoded, encrypted, or compressed. The Internet-Pad may wireless synchronize, transfer, or stream the digital content to other devices.
US08332520B2 Web server for managing session and method thereof
A web server that can be flexibly changed may include storage for a session state; a reception unit for receiving the session state while associating it with a primary HTTP request, from a terminal; storage for the received session state which is accessed as an HTTP session object by a processing program for responsive to the received primary HTTP request; a unit for accessing the stored session state responsive to executing an access instruction contained in the processing program; and a return unit for reading the session state from the storage unit responsive to executing an instruction generating an HTTP response contained in the processing program, setting the session state to the primary HTTP response as a parameter to be transmitted by the terminal in association with a secondary HTTP request, and returning the set primary HTTP response to the terminal.
US08332515B2 System and method for serving web pages
A system is shown that supplies web pages from servers (109 to 116, 301 to 305) to requesting clients (102 to 106) over the Internet (101). Each server is configured to supply web page data to requesting clients. A traffic manager (120) receives request data from browsing clients and selects one of the serving devices for serving web page data. A data manipulation station (125) manipulates request data or web page data. The traffic manager supplies a function call to the data manipulation station that includes request data or web page data using Internet protocol. The manipulation station manipulates the request data or the web page data to produce manipulated data and the manipulated date is returned to the traffic manager.
US08332513B2 Method and device for detecting connectivity termination of internet protocol version 6 access networks
The present invention discloses a method and device for detecting connectivity termination in an IPv6 access network based on a DHCP service model. The method for detecting connectivity termination according to the invention comprises the steps of: creating an entry of the subscriber connectivity cache list corresponding to the subscriber terminal in the access node when the IPv6 connectivity between the subscriber terminal and the access node is established successfully; querying the entry of the neighbor cache list corresponding to the subscriber terminal based on the polling time set in the entry of the subscriber connectivity cache list; deciding whether the connectivity of the subscriber terminal is normal based on the entry information corresponding to the subscriber terminal of the subscriber connectivity cache list and neighbor cache list; and performing termination processing on the connectivity of the subscriber terminal logging off abnormally.
US08332507B2 Method for determining service demands in a network load balanced scenario
An approach to determine the service demand of various resources of any individual server (present in a cluster of servers), given the overall transaction throughput and utilization values of these resources, in case of a network load balanced scenario is disclosed. The method proposes a quantitative approach to calculate the transaction throughput of each network load balanced server from the overall transaction throughput, obtained from any commercial performance testing tool. The individual transaction throughputs are calculated using monitored values of network related performance counters of each server and the load balancer obtained from performance testing. Service demands of the resource can be computed using the Utilization law of Queuing Theory once the throughput of that server and utilization of that resource is obtained.
US08332498B2 Synchronized relay messaging and coordinated network processing using SNMP
Methods, devices, and systems are provided for utilizing asynchronous messaging protocols, such as the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), to implement relay messaging through a network, gather data from and/or set parameters on a plurality of managed devices in a network through the issuance and transmission of a single SNMP message, and/or cause multiple managed devices to perform cooperative and coordinated computations through the issuance of a single SNMP message.
US08332493B2 Directory server plug-in call ordering
A method and apparatus for ordering callbacks for server plug-ins of a Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) directory server. Each plug-in registers with the LDAP server and has a designated priority and set of dependencies. The priority and dependency data are stored in an LDAP callback configuration entry or set of entries. The LDAP server analyzes the priority and dependencies to determine the order of each plug-in or individual callback relative to one another. This allows the LDAP directory server and LDAP operations to rely on the order of callbacks thereby improving the efficiency of the system.
US08332492B2 System and method for computer network configuration and operation
A system for simplifying the configuration and administration of computer networks. A the server system first sends a broadcast message out to the other network nodes on the computer network to learn configuration of each other network nodes on the local network. Next, network software within each other network node (not shown) responds to the broadcast message with a response containing configuration information and an identifier key value. In one embodiment, the identifier key value may be a randomly generated number. The server system then builds a table of network nodes using the information received in the response messages sent in response to the broadcast message. The server may then communicate with systems having duplicate addresses using the identifier key value. In some embodiments, the server system may send request messages to one or more network nodes specifying a network configuration change.
US08332480B2 Storage system
A plurality of storage nodes are connected via a network to build a storage system. Each of the storage nodes includes a storage device. A condition holding unit holds a state condition indicating an inactive state and an active state of the storage device. A state control unit controls a state of the storage device between the inactive state and the active state based on the state condition held by the condition holding unit.
US08332478B2 Context sensitive connected content
The disclosure describes a method of connecting multimedia content to a network resource. This method operates in a computer network environment. Operating in a network connected device, the method extracts an identifier from a media signal, such as from a digital watermark, perceptual hash, or other machine extracted signal identifier. It then sends the identifier to a network along with context information indicating device type information. From the network, the method receives related data associated with the media signal via the identifier. The related data is adapted to the network connected device based on the device type information. This device type information may include a display type, so that the related date may be formatted for rendering on the display type of the device. This device type information may also include a connection speed so that the related data may be optimized for the connection speed of the device.
US08332475B2 Messaging system and method
A method of message communication via a messaging system between one or more originating communication devices assigned to a sender and one or more destination communication devices assigned to a receiver, a messaging system, a service center and a client thereof. The method comprising: before delivery to the receiver, obtaining by a messaging system a message having initial characteristics comprising message format and message layout; adapting at least one of said initial characteristics of the message in accordance with at least one criterion selected from a group comprising: —criterion related to message communication capabilities of the destination communication device with regard to message communication capabilities of the originating communication device; —criterion related to message displaying capabilities of the destination communication device with regard to message communication capabilities of the originating communication device; —criterion related to communication media between originating and destination device; and facilitating delivery of the adapted message to the receiver.
US08332471B2 System for enhanced management of social networks on mobile devices
A system and method for enhanced management of social networks and interaction therein on a mobile device. The system provides the user with a means to manage a plurality of online identifications and relationship databases with relationships automatically synchronizing between systems. The system further provides an automated means to manage social networks based on geospatial, social and temporal proximity, and a means to interact with other users, and to publish content, seamlessly, across online services and mobile devices.
US08332468B2 Method and system for processing an address book
A method and a system for processing an address book are provided. The method includes the following steps. A network address book (NAB) parses a user address book, and generates an acquisition request according to settings of the user address book. The NAB acquires contact information to be updated according to the acquisition request, and updates the user address book. The NAB synchronizes or transmits updated information of the user address book to a piece of user equipment (UE). By using the method, plenty of contact information is acquired according to the user settings. Therefore, the method solves the problems that the address books in the conventional technology have single-purpose functions and closely related to services and thus cannot serve as an independent function for providing services for the user. In addition, address book information on a plurality of UEs of the user can be updated synchronously, so that when one UE initiates address book information update, the address books on other UEs are updated accordingly. Therefore, the consistency between the address book information on the UEs is guaranteed.
US08332462B2 Correlating groups of application systems
Implementations of a computer-implemented method include instantiating a first computer program that is executable using one or more processors, using the first computer program, defining a first group comprising a plurality of application systems and a second group comprising a plurality of application systems, correlating the plurality of application systems within the first group to generate a correlation model, storing the correlation model in a computer-readable storage medium, and providing a target group comprising a plurality of application systems based on the correlation model.
US08332458B2 Monitoring threshold functions over distributed data sets
A method for distributed computing includes processing multiple sets of data at respective computing nodes (24), and calculating respective local values of one or more statistical parameters characterizing the sets of the data. A global condition is defined, such that the condition is violated when a function defined over a weighted average of the respective local values crosses a predetermined threshold. The global condition is separated into a plurality of local constraints, which include a respective local constraint to be evaluated by each of the nodes based on the respective local values, such that violation of the respective local constraint in at least one of the nodes indicates a violation of the global condition. The local constraint is evaluated independently at each of the nodes. When at least one of the nodes detects that the respective local constraint is violated, an indication that the global condition has been violated is produced.
US08332453B2 Shifter with all-one and all-zero detection using a portion of partially shifted vector and shift amount in parallel to generated shifted result
A shifter that includes a plurality of shift stages positioned within the shifter, and receiving and shifting input data to generate a shifted result, and a detection circuit coupled at an input of a final shift stage of the plurality of shifters, in a final stage within the shifter. The detection circuit receives a partially shifted vector at the input of the final shift stage along with a predetermined shift amount, and performing an all-one or all-zero detection operation using a portion of the partially shifted vector and the predetermined shift amount, in parallel, to a shifting operation performed by the final shift stage to generate the shifted result.
US08332451B2 Programmable CORDIC Processor
A CORDIC processor has a plurality of stages, each of the stages having a X input, Y input, a sign input, a sign output, an X output, a Y output, a mode control input having a ROTATE or VECTOR value, and a stage number k input, each CORDIC stage having a first shift generating an output by shifting the Y input k times, a second shift generating an output by shifting X input k times, a multiplexer having an output coupled to the sign input when the mode control input is ROTATE and to the sign of the Y input when the mode input is VECTOR, a first multiplier forming the product of the first shift output and the multiplexer output, a second multiplier forming the product of the second shift output and an inverted the multiplexer output, a first adder forming the X output from the sum of the first multiplier output and the X input, and a second adder forming the Y output from the sum of the second multiplier output and the Y input.
US08332448B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit having a random number and oscillator circuit for variably controlling stored data
The invention reduces unnecessary electromagnetic radiation noise due to an operation clock signal generated by an oscillator circuit. Random number data outputted by a random number generation circuit is stored in a frequency variable data register. The data stored in the frequency variable data register is replaced by random number data sequentially generated by the random number generation circuit. An oscillator circuit is a circuit generating a clock signal, and the clock signal is supplied as an operation clock signal to an internal circuit through an operation clock signal generation circuit. The frequency of the clock signal from the oscillator circuit is variably controlled in response to the random number data stored in the frequency variable data register. A frequency variable range control register which stores control data for controlling the range of the frequency variably controlled in response to the random number data stored in the frequency variable data register is further provided.
US08332442B1 Automated restoration of links when restoring individual directory service objects
Various methods and systems for automatically restoring links to a directory service's object when that object is restored from backup are disclosed. One method involves receiving user input selecting an individual directory service object for restoration from backup; restoring the directory service object from the backup; and automatically creating a forward link to the directory service object from a source object. The need to restore the forward link can be detected by either finding the forward link in a copy of the link table within the backup or finding a corresponding backward link in an attribute of a backed-up copy of the directory service object.
US08332438B2 Methods and systems for monitoring technical objects
Methods, computer-readable media, and systems are provided for monitoring a technical object during, for example, a handover and/or takeover of the technical object. In one embodiment, a business partner may receive an XML file for a technical object. The business partner may generate a new structure, to represent the technical object, based on the XML file. The business partner may retrieve a corresponding structure from a backend component. The business partner may preprocess the new structure by performing a consistency check. The consistency check may include comparing the new structure to the corresponding structure. The business partner may store the new structure in a backend component after the preprocessing is complete.
US08332436B2 Method and system for customizing a user interface to an on-demand database service
In embodiments, methods and systems for customizing a user interface to an on-demand database service. These mechanisms and methods for customizing a user interface to an on-demand database service can enable embodiments to provide a user interface designed by a tenant of the on-demand database service. The customization can include including third party content into the customized user interface, overriding a standard object, and providing content inline at a specified location.
US08332433B2 Database synchronization and validation
Systems and methods for verifying data in a distributed database using different automated check operations at different times during the database read and update cycles. Various functions may be performed including executing a first check during update operations of the database. A second check may also be executed during the update operation of the database, and be implemented as an execution thread of an update daemon. A third check may be executed at a time interval between update functions of the update daemon. A fourth check may be executed during a time that the database is not being updated. Integrity of data in the database may be verified by a computer processor based on the first, second, third, and fourth checks.
US08332432B2 Managing a binary object in a database system
A method for managing a binary object in a database system is provided. The method may include receiving a request to store the binary object and determining if a size of the binary object is above a first threshold. If the size is less than the first threshold, the method may include storing the binary object in a database of the database system using a database communication protocol. If the size is above the first threshold, the method may include determining if the size is above a second threshold. To this end, if the size is less than the second threshold, the method may include storing the binary object in a file system of the database system using the database communication protocol. Furthermore, if the size is above the second threshold, the method may include storing the binary object in the file system using a file system communication protocol.
US08332429B2 Photography assistant and method for assisting a user in photographing landmarks and scenes
A method and system to help photographers to take better quality pictures of landmarks and scenes are disclosed. A user is guided with examples of existing quality images, which are extracted from a database, of the same or similar landmarks or scenes. The method includes taking a query photograph that may include an image associated with a GPS location and other metadata, and using information extracted from the image to retrieve existing, similar images. The images retrieved may be ordered according to different criteria. When a user selects one as a model image, the user is provided with assistance for taking a target photograph of similar quality.
US08332425B2 Method and system for generating media recommendations in a distributed environment based on tagging play history information with location information
A computer-implemented method and system are provided for generating media recommendations in a media recommendation network. Aspects of the method and system include receiving by a server a plurality of play histories of media items from a plurality of users of devices, wherein at least a portion of the media items are tagged with corresponding time and location data indicating a time and location of play; receiving by the server a media recommendation request from a requester, including receiving seed information indicating a current location of the requester; using at least one of user preferences of the requester and the seed information to identify correlated users from which to search corresponding play histories from among the plurality of play histories; comparing the seed information to the corresponding play histories and generating a list of related media items contained therein; and returning the list of related media items to the requester.
US08332424B2 Method and apparatus for enabling virtual tags
A method and apparatus for enabling virtual tags is described. The method may include receiving a first digital image data and virtual tag data to be associated with a real-world object in the first digital image data, wherein the first digital image data is captured by a first mobile device, and the virtual tag data includes metadata received from a user of the first mobile device. The method may also include generating a first digital signature from the first digital image data that describes the real-world object, and in response to the generation, inserting in substantially real-time the first digital signature into a searchable index of digital images. The method may also include storing, in a tag database, the virtual tag data and an association between the virtual tag data and the first digital signature inserted into the index of digital images.
US08332419B1 Content collection search with robust content matching
False positive match rates between query content and content in a collection may be reduced with a minimum content region test and/or a minimum features per scale test. The quality of correlations between query descriptors and content descriptors may be improved with a modified sub-region descriptor construction. Content regions associated with detected content features may be partitioned into disjoint sets of sub-regions that cover the content regions, the sub-regions modified so as to at least partially overlap, and descriptor components generated for the modified sub-regions. Matching of feature-sparse content may be improved by adding blurred versions to the collection.
US08332398B2 Database system in which logical principles for a data retrieval process can evolve based upon learning
The present invention provides a database system capable of dealing with dynamic changes in an event that vary continuously with time. A database system outputs a retrieval output from data in response to a user's retrieval request on the basis of a retrieval logic. The retrieval logic is allowed to evolve on the basis of a logical model. This logical model establishes a general relationship which leads results from conditions relating to a group of events that are dealt by a data group. Moreover, a database system optimizes a data structure on the basis of the logical model. The logical model can be transferred in a separated manner from the specific data contents of the data group. Therefore, the logical model can be exported to another database system of the same kind, and also imported from another data base system of the same kind.
US08332388B2 Transformation rule profiling for a query optimizer
Technology is described for transformation rule profiling for a query optimizer. The method can include obtaining a database query configured to be optimized by the query optimizer of a database system. An optimized query plan for the database query can be found using a host set of transformation rules. One transformation rule can be removed and checked at a time. Each transformation rule can be checked to determine whether the transformation rule affects an optimal query plan output. A test query plan can be generated after each transformation rule has been removed. The query optimizer can determine whether the test query plan is different than the optimized query plan in the absence of the removed transformation rule. An equivalent set of transformation rules can be created that includes transformation rules where the test query plan generated from the equivalent set of transformation rules is equivalent to the optimized plan.
US08332387B2 Method, system, and computer program product for managing a multi-tenant database system
More efficient querying of a multi-tenant database using dynamic tuning of database indices. A layer of meta-data associates data items with tenants, e.g., via tags, and the meta-data is used to optimize searches by channeling processing resources during a query to only those pieces of data bearing the relevant tenant's unique tag.
US08332381B1 Tab search utility
Some embodiments herein include at least one of systems, methods, and software for presenting within an Internet browsing application a search box adjacent to the last tab in the tabbed area of the Internet browsing application. The search box, in some embodiments, receives text input of a search query, adds to the search query at least one tracking code associated with at least one of a user and the Internet browsing application, and submits the query and tracking code combination against at least one search engine.
US08332380B2 Variable density query engine
Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to search engines and provide a novel and non-obvious method, system and computer program product for a variable density query engine. In an embodiment of the invention, a search engine data processing system can be provided. The system can include a content index, and a variable density search engine coupled to the content index. The variable density search engine can include program code enabled to vary a density of entries in a result set according to a varying size of the result set. In this regard, in one aspect of the embodiment, the density can range from a title for each entry in the result set to a full textual description for each entry in the result set to an audiovisual element for each entry in the result set.
US08332379B2 System and method for identifying content sensitive authorities from very large scale networks
A method and system for identifying nodes with similar content. In one aspect, the method comprises determining a structure of a network of nodes, said structure defined by incoming links and outgoing links between nodes within said network, grouping said nodes within said network into a first set of modules, calculating a first modularity value between each of the modules within the first set, said modularity value indicating a degree of similar content within each module, calculating a topical relevance value for each of the modules, selecting those modules whose topical relevance value exceeds a threshold value and calculating an authority score for the selected modules.
US08332375B2 Method and system for moving requested files from one storage location to another
A method for moving files from one storage location to another, includes: receiving a request from a user to access a file; copying the file from a first storage element to a second storage element in response to the request, wherein the second storage element provides access to files at a higher rate than that provided by the first storage element; automatically determining whether a demand for the file exists; and automatically maintaining a copy of the file stored in the second storage element if the demand exists; otherwise automatically deleting the copy of the file stored in the second storage element.
US08332370B2 Maintaining commonly named client-specific file content in hard disk drive emulation
A data processing network has a virtual hard drive emulator and client terminals that share a virtual disk image. Client-specific read-write versions of selected files or directories are supported. All clients access the client-specific versions using the same name and address identifiers (for example, the same file name for a given configuration file), but each client has an exclusive version. A file ID distinguishes respective clients. These files are maintained alongside other files of other types and attributes. The selection of files to be client-specific can be predetermined, or a client-specific version of a file can be generated if the client executes a write operation to a client-specific file or area, the written data containing data read by the client in any of memory area available to the clients (RAM, Virtual Disk Drive, Hard Disk drive etc.). The technique supports customization while maximizing administrative control of operating system versions and minimizing redundant storage. File access for client terminals can be made close to systems having local hard drives.
US08332362B2 Write-once-read-many storage system and method for implementing the same
A write-once-read-many (WORM) storage system that employs large-capacity and relatively inexpensive disks in connection with a file system on a file server is provided. The file system contains most or all of the required WORM functionality so as to impose a minimal footprint on client applications, client operating systems and open protocols if desired. The system is organized around WORM storage volumes that contain files that, when committed to WORM storage, cannot be deleted or modified. Any file path or directory tree structure used to identify the file within the WORM volume is locked and cannot be deleted. In one embodiment, the administrator creates a WORM volume, capable of storing designated WORM files. The client then creates an appropriate WORM file using the appropriate protocol semantics. The file is written to the volume and committed by transitioning the file attributes from a not-read-only to a read-only state. The file system recognizes the persistently stored WORM attribute of any file in a WORM volume as WORM file. Henceforth, any attempt to modify the file attributes, write to the file, or delete the file, by clients, administrators or other entities is rejected and a request denied message is returned to the attempting party.
US08332361B2 Data processing system and storage subsystem provided in data processing system
A first storage subsystem 100A includes a first storage device 6A1 and one or more second storage devices 6A2, 6A3. A second storage subsystem 100B comprises a third storage device 6B1 and a fourth storage device 6B2. A third storage subsystem 100C comprises a fifth storage device 6C1 and a sixth storage device 6C2. The first storage subsystem 100A generates a data set, stores the generated data set in the second storage devices 6A2, 6A3, and transmits the data set to the second and third storage subsystems 100B, 100C. Each of the second and third storage subsystems 100B, 100C stores the received data set in the third storage device 6B1 or fifth storage device 6C1, reads a data set from the third or fifth storage device 6B1, 6C1, and stores the write data within the data set in the fourth storage device 6B2 or sixth storage device 6C2.
US08332353B2 Synchronization of dissimilar databases
A method, system and computer-readable medium for synchronizing databases between two disparate computer systems are presented. In one embodiment, the method includes updating a first database, which is part of a first computer system, with a database update, wherein updating the first database does not initially commit the database update to the first computer system; calling a remote function to incorporate the database update into a second database that is part of a second computer system; in response to the remote function determining that the second database has been successfully updated with the database update, committing the database update to the first computer system; and in response to the remote function determining that the second database has not been successfully updated with the database update, rolling back the database update such that the first computer system is unaware of the attempted updating of the first database.
US08332352B2 Method and system using reusable state information for synchronization and maintenance of data
A system for synchronization whereby metadata repository maintains information regarding the history and status of data items in a data repository. Data items are associated with states and such states changes (e.g. increment) in response to changes to the data items. History statements associated with the same states describe the changes in a generic enough fashion that multiple data items may be associated with a single state (e.g. if multiple data items share a common history such as that they were all edited by a user on the same device). The history repository is synchronized with other history repositories so as to reflect the states of data items on multiple devices. The synchronized history stores are used during synchronization to identify and resolve data conflicts through ancestry of data item history.
US08332345B1 Systems and methods for pairing of a semantic network and a knowledge sharing repository
Systems and methods for facilitating pairing of semantic networks with knowledge sharing repositories, such as wikis, are described. Information from a semantic network may be transferred to a knowledge sharing repository, and either automatically or manually updated based on changes in the semantic network information. Likewise, information in a knowledge sharing repository may be transferred to a semantic network and automatically or manually updated based in changes in the knowledge sharing repository.
US08332343B2 Solution recommendation based on incomplete data sets
In accordance with one aspect of the present exemplary embodiment, a system determines a solution based on received data. An intake component receives an incomplete data set from one or more sources. A recommendation system transforms the incomplete data set into a semantic data set via latent semantic indexing, classifies the semantic data set into an existing cluster and provides one or more solutions of the existing cluster as one or more recommendations.
US08332338B2 Automated entity identification for efficient profiling in an event probability prediction system
A computer-implemented method and system for automated entity identification for efficient profiling in an event probability prediction system. A first subset of entities belonging to one or more entity classes is defined. At least one historical profile is constructed for each entity in the subset of entities based on a set of possible outcomes of transaction behavior of each entity in the first subset of entities. Based on the historical profiles, a second subset of entities having transaction behavior associated with a transaction is selected, the transaction behavior being predictive of at least one targeted outcome from the set of possible outcomes. The first subset of entities is redefined with the second subset of entities.
US08332336B2 Method for selecting information
In the method of the invention, information is selected in a processing unit. The end result to be achieved is final feature information to be used for performing a task. In the method, input information to the processing unit is treated with the intention to find useful information from the input information in view of the task. Feature information representing characteristics of the input information is formed from the input data, the values of the feature information being further processed on the basis of their utility. The method is mainly characterized in that a preliminary prediction is formed from a first context of a sot of input information by means of first parameters and in that the first primary input of the set of input data is preprocessed by forming calculation results by means of second parameters.
US08332321B2 Remote currency dispensation systems and methods
A currency dispense and control system (CDCS) for securely dispensing paper currency in multiple modes: (1) an ATM system and (2) a currency control system that allows a merchant or merchant-approved employee to withdraw cash from the CDCS independent of a standard ATM electronic fund transfer (EFT) network. The CDCS may be on-site and implemented using standard ATM hardware or may be located remotely. The CDCS may also include one or more of the following functionalities: a duress dispensation system that allows the CDCS to activate an alarm and/or otherwise communicate with local police or security services during a robbery, a time-release system that effects a time-delayed dispensation functionality, and a user identification and authentication system for authenticating a user identity and determining eligibility of the user to access the currency control system.
US08332319B2 Personal teller system for remote interactive and personalized banking
Systems and methods for providing personalized services to remote customers using personal teller machines (PTM) from a centralized call center. The customer initiates the transaction providing identification at a PTM. The identification of the customer is verified and audio and/or video communication is established between the customer at the PTM and a teller at a teller station in the call center. Upon establishment of video and audio connection, the customer may request the performance of specific financial transactions that are controlled by a teller through the teller station that is connected with the PTM over a network. Upon completion of the transactions of the customer by the teller, a receipt is printed for the customer and the video and audio connections are closed.
US08332316B2 System and method for transferring a line of credit balance to a cash account
The present invention provides an automated system configured to facilitate transfers of cash value from one or more lines of credit to one or more deposit accounts or payment systems. An automated system ensures that requested funds are available in a customer's one or more lines of credit and electronically deposits the requested funds into one or more designated deposit accounts or payment systems. An automated system provides a means for customers to manage lines of credit, setup transfer transactions, define rules governing transfers and view transactional history. The automated system, in network connection with the lending organization's backend systems, may authenticate customer identities and credit accounts as well as insure that the requested funds are available for transfer into a deposit account.
US08332313B2 Methods and systems for exchanging and/or transferring various forms of value
Methods and systems for exchanging various forms of value, including coins, currency, credit, debit, and/or bank account funds, for prepaid cash cards, credit cards, phone cards, and the like. In one embodiment, a value exchange machine includes a coin input region, a coin sorting/counting apparatus, a card reader, and a communications facility configured to communicate with a remote computer network. In another embodiment, a value exchange system includes one or more of the value exchange machines connected to one or more remote computers via a communications link. A user wishing to purchase, for example, a prepaid cash card can visit one of the value exchange machines, select the desired transaction, and pay for the card with coins, currency, a credit card, a debit card, and/or bank account funds. After confirming payment, the value exchange machine dispenses the card to the user.
US08332309B2 System and method for determining implied market information
Implied prices and their quantities are computed. Markets are characterized by exhaustively computing one or more combinations of other related markets. Each combination when summed in a particular way results in the market under consideration. In a described embodiment, the number of market combinations found is an exhaustive list of market combinations such that the market under consideration can be fully and completely characterized, such that each combination provides implied market information about the market under consideration. Implied market information can include implied prices and their quantities, which are computed for each combination and used accordingly in displays or used by automated or semi-automated trading tools.
US08332297B1 Systems and methods for projecting future values when performing retirement planning
Retirement planning for a person is performed. For each of each class of assets, the income, and the expenses of the person, an analysis is employed that produces a probabilistic distribution of possible future values therefor, and based on each produced distribution derives a respective best case future value, a worst case future value, and a median case future value. Each analysis is conducted by compiling a collection of historical values, performing multiple scenarios based on random inputs to calculate expected future values for each of several particular future periods of time, deriving a probabilistic distribution with distribution values relating to projected future value for each period of time, and deriving a best case future value, a worst case future value, and a median case future value from each probabilistic distribution.
US08332291B2 System and method for monitoring managing and valuing credit accounts
The present invention relates to a system and method for estimating the future and present value of credit accounts (FIG. 1). A plurality of profit driver segments (105) are established. A degree of belonging of the credit account to each of the plurality of profit driver segments (105) is determine by characterizing the credit account based upon it historical behavior (110). The probability of migration of the credit account from at least one profit driver segment (105) to at least one profit driver segment based upon historical behavior data is determined. The credit account can then be valued based upon the characterization of the credit account and the determined probability of migration. By examinating how accounts migrate between behavior segments over multiple periods, and analyzing the discounted cash flows associated with these migration patterns, a net present value may be calculated for each account.
US08332288B2 Interactive online spending analysis tool
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to interactively displaying account activity. An analysis of financial transactions associated with a financial unit can be performed by a spending analysis tool, which can display the analysis via a website. The analysis can include, for example, a spending analysis and a budget analysis. The financial transactions are associated with merchants. At least one of the financial transactions is associated with first merchant, a first merchant category, and a member of the financial unit. The spending analysis tool changes the merchant category associated with the at least one of the financial transactions to another merchant category based on a selection of a user.
US08332287B2 Methods and apparatus for automated deposit reconciliation
Methods and apparatus for reconciling bank transactions with stored deposit entries in a practice management system. A plurality of bank transactions received from a bank are processed to select bank deposits from the plurality of bank transactions. A plurality of matching rules are used to automatically match at least some of the selected bank deposits with the stored deposits in the practice management system. A user interface enables a user to review the results of the automatic matching process and to manually match bank deposits to stored deposit entries. The user interface also enables users to reconcile stored deposit entries in the practice management system to bank statements to facilitate the preparation of month-end financial statements.
US08332283B2 User interface and methods for enabling users to efficiently track item selections in an electronic catalog
An electronic commerce system provides various features for assisting customers in browsing and generating orders from an electronic catalog. One such feature enables customers to efficiently keep track of the items and item quantities currently selected for purchase. For example, when a customer requests a page corresponding to a particular item category, the system may supplement the category page with an indication of which of the items on the page (if any) are currently selected for purchase. This may be accomplished by supplementing the page with selection quantity values that are displayed in customer-editable fields. Search results pages may be supplemented in a similar manner. Another feature enables the customer to save, under a user-specified name, a record of the items and item quantities currently selected for purchase, and to subsequently make this record active (e.g., to generate a repeat order).
US08332280B2 System for managing a supplier for participation in a plurality of trading networks
A system for performing a method for managing a supplier for participation in trading networks. The method includes: receiving from each trading network a volume commitment consolidating volume commitments for offerings of commodities and services; negotiating with each trading network to supply to customer members of the trading network the commodity or service; storing, for each trading network for each supplier, attributes including start date, end date, services and products offered to the trading network, and payment flow for the commodities and services; offing a trading network package based on negotiations occurring before receiving purchase requests from the customer members, the trading network package including: (i) a value-add service offering to the customer members for a fee, and (ii) a managed package for which a customer member provides a volume commitment and actual purchases are tracked; and negotiating price discount levels for committed levels of demand from the trading networks.
US08332272B2 Single tap transactions using an NFC enabled mobile device
The invention describes how a consumer can hold their NFC enabled device in proximity to an NFC enabled point-of-sale terminal and with a single “wave” or “tap” to automatically redeem coupons, pay for a purchase using a default payment card or a selected card, view receipts view reward point balances, and receive relevant coupons and other digital artifacts both before and after the purchase. The NFC enabled device includes a secure element with a payment application, payment credentials, and other digital artifacts such as coupons. The secure element can be internal to the mobile device, externally affixed to the mobile device, or inserted into a slot within the body of the mobile device.
US08332271B1 Web influenced in-store transactions
In selected embodiments a repository system correlates user browsing behavior with in-store transactions involving a number of products or product categories. For example, an online portal may receive online transactional data and in-store transactional data and associate particular user identities with such data. The user identities may be correlated by matching online transactional data with in-store transactional data. This correlation identifies a user known to frequent both online and in-store venues of the same retailer. The online portal may maintain browser repository records based on an association of online and in-store identities. In some implementations, the portal measures in-store transactions of a user known to frequent both online and in-store venues. The measurements may be performed for a predetermined time period. Such measurements may be used to extrapolate web influenced in-store transactional data from at least one browser repository record to estimate a transaction for an unknown user.
US08332270B2 System and method for utilizing a wireless communications device
A system and method for determining the identity of a product and then calculating an offer price for the product are disclosed. The identity of the product may be determined using near-field communication in one aspect. The system and method are operable to enable retailers to provide a lowest price for the product and conduct a series of offer calculations to determine an offer for a consumer. The offer is based, in part, on costs to the consumer in executing the transaction (e.g., travel time, fuel, etc.). The offer may be higher than the lowest price as determined by each retailer, respectively, while still providing a discount to the consumer to entice a purchase of the product.
US08332267B2 Method and system for real time measurement data adjudication and service level evaluation
A method and system for adjudicating measurement data in real time and re-adjudicating a segment of an input measurement data stream upon submission of a new adjudication instruction in a service level evaluation system. An adjudication instruction associated with a service level is received. Measurement data including a first measurement data point is received. The received adjudication instruction is applied in real time to the first measurement data point to generate a first adjudicated measurement data point. A service level is evaluated based on the first adjudicated measurement data point. To re-adjudicate the data stream segment, a new adjudication instruction is received and the segment is identified. The input data stream's adjudication is suspended and the stream is queued into storage. The segment of measurement data is retrieved and re-adjudicated by applying the new adjudication instruction. The input data stream's adjudication is resumed afterwards from the queued input stream.
US08332265B2 System and methods for online performance management
A system, method and computer program product are provided for performance management. A member within an entity is selected and a performance assessment of the member is conducted. The information collected from the performance assessment is stored in a database. A self-assessment by the member is conducted and the information from the self-assessment is also stored in the database. An appraisal of the member is conducted using the data from both the performance assessment and the self-assessment and the information obtained from the appraisal is stored.
US08332261B2 Method, system and apparatus for evaluation of employee competencies using a compression/acceleration methodology
A mechanism to evaluate the value of employee competencies across a business entity is provided. Managers provide raw interpretations of employee competencies in a variety of selected competency areas. The raw evaluations of employee competencies are weighted and stored according to an organizational utility of each competency to the business entity, arriving at an adjusted competency value for each competency. Depth of an employee's competency in a particular area is evaluated by selecting the highest adjusted competency value for an employee and then compressing that highest adjusted competency value in order to level initial assessments of an employee's strongest skill. This compressed value is augmented by one or more accelerators based upon the assessments of the employee's other competencies. The result is an overall domain competency rating for the employee that can then be used for comparison against other employees in the business entity.
US08332247B1 Methods and systems for optimizing network travel costs
Methods and systems optimize travel costs both on and off a sequence of one or more networks used to represent travel, communication, or transport of anything within a spatial medium. Such systems and methods can develop a data structure for optimizing travel costs for a region having an embedded network. The data structure includes a grid representation of the region having an array of cells covering the region, an optimal-cost grid dataset containing optimal costs for travel between an initial location in the region and cells in the grid, a hybrid grid-network dataset representing travel costs within the network, within the grid, and between the network and the grid, and back-links among elements of the hybrid grid-network dataset, reflecting optimal travel routes originating at the initial location. Methods and systems also include querying the datasets of the data structure to generate a route with an optimal travel cost from the initial location to a query point.
US08332241B2 Method for selling marine cargo insurance in a network environment
A storage media and method for transacting cargo insurance business in a network environment includes the on-line automation of quoting, billing, certificate issuance, underwriting, and claims processing. Moreover, the method also includes customer qualification and support services, in addition to data collection and analysis, for management report generation.
US08332237B2 Methods and systems for prescribing sample prescriptions
Systems and methods are disclosed for providing sample prescriptions electronically and creating a complete data set of information regarding the life-cycle of the sample prescription. In one embodiment, a sample prescription system comprises a management module that stores files corresponding to sample prescriptions. Each corresponding file is linked to a unique sample code. The sample code and linked file together comprise an electronic history of the sample's life-cycle, which is built dynamically over time into a comprehensive code containing all information relevant to a prescribed sample and its path to consumption.
US08332233B2 Method and system for collecting and analyzing holter data employing a web site
A central server controls the receipt and analysis of patient medical data and patient information. The central server receives patient medical data and patient information from a sensor or a remote computer. A storage system of the central server stores the received patient medical data, patient information, and the associated medical report prepared by the analysis software on the central server after analysis of the patient medical data. The medical report associated with the patient medical data is transmitted from the central server to the remote computer. Also, a method controls the acquisition and analysis of patient medical data over a network by a central server from a remote computer operably interconnected by the network with the central server.
US08332227B2 System and method for providing network coordinated conversational services
A system and method for providing automatic and coordinated sharing of conversational resources, e.g., functions and arguments, between network-connected servers and devices and their corresponding applications. In one aspect, a system for providing automatic and coordinated sharing of conversational resources includes a network having a first and second network device, the first and second network device each comprising a set of conversational resources, a dialog manager for managing a conversation and executing calls requesting a conversational service, and a communication stack for communicating messages over the network using conversational protocols, wherein the conversational protocols establish coordinated network communication between the dialog managers of the first and second network device to automatically share the set of conversational resources of the first and second network device, when necessary, to perform their respective requested conversational service.
US08332226B1 System and method of dynamically modifying a spoken dialog system to reduce hardware requirements
A system and method for providing a scalable spoken dialog system are disclosed. The method comprises receiving information which may be internal to the system or external to the system and dynamically modifying at least one module within a spoken dialog system according to the received information. The modules may be one or more of an automatic speech recognition, natural language understanding, dialog management and text-to-speech module or engine. Dynamically modifying the module may improve hardware performance or improve a specific caller's speech processing accuracy, for example. The modification of the modules or hardware may also be based on an application or a task, or based on a current portion of a dialog.
US08332225B2 Techniques to create a custom voice font
Techniques to create and share custom voice fonts are described. An apparatus may include a preprocessing component to receive voice audio data and a corresponding text script from a client and to process the voice audio data to produce prosody labels and a rich script. The apparatus may further include a verification component to automatically verify the voice audio data and the text script. The apparatus may further include a training component to train a custom voice font from the verified voice audio data and rich script and to generate custom voice font data usable by the TTS component. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08332218B2 Context-based grammars for automated speech recognition
Methods, apparatus, and computer program products for providing a context-based grammar for automatic speech recognition, including creating by a multimodal application a context, the context comprising words associated with user activity in the multimodal application, and supplementing by the multimodal application a grammar for automatic speech recognition in dependence upon the context.
US08332212B2 Method and system for efficient pacing of speech for transcription
A method and system for improving the efficiency of real-time and non-real-time speech transcription by machine speech recognizers, human dictation typists, and human voicewriters using speech recognizers. In particular, the pacing with which recorded speech is presented to transcriptionists is automatically adjusted by monitoring the transcriptionists' output by comparing the output acoustically or phonetically to the presented recorded speech as well as monitoring the resulting transcription, and accordingly adjusting the pacing.
US08332206B1 Dictionary and translation lookup
A computer-implemented method for providing a definition or a translation is disclosed according to an aspect of the subject technology. The method comprises receiving an input indicating a word selected by a user, sending a definition request for the word to a definition server, receiving a response to the definition request from the definition server, sending a translation request for the word to a translation server, and receiving a response to the translation request from the translation server. The method also comprises determining whether to provide the user with a definition or a translation of the word based on the responses from the definition server and the translation server, and providing the user with the definition or the translation of the word based on the determination.
US08332205B2 Mining transliterations for out-of-vocabulary query terms
An approach is described for using a query expressed in a source language to retrieve information expressed in a target language. The approach uses a translation dictionary to convert terms in the query from the source language to appropriate terms in the target language. The approach determines viable transliterations for out-of-vocabulary (OOV) query terms by retrieving a body of information based on an in-vocabulary component of the query, and then mining the body of information to identify the viable transliterations for the OOV query terms. The approach then adds the viable transliterations to the translation dictionary. The retrieval, mining, and adding operations can be repeated one or more or times.
US08332200B2 Method and simulator for generating phase noise in system with phase-locked loop
A method and simulator for generating phase noise in a system with a phase-locked loop (PLL) are disclosed. Each simulation block of the system with the PLL has its own predefined phase noise vector whose elements are injected consecutively at a trigger event. An element selection of the predefined noise vector of is steered from the master element block, which is usually the voltage or current-controlled oscillator. Some simulation blocks, called semi-master element blocks, are self-triggered and determines their own injection frequency rates, and are reset-steered and aligned with the master element block as a capturing data phase starts; while other simulation blocks, called slave element blocks, are directly steered with the master element block.
US08332199B1 Graphical user interface for viewing intermediate calculations from a device model
In an example embodiment, the system receives user inputs including: (1) a netlist that describes the circuit elements and connections of an integrated circuit; (2) a mathematical device model that corresponds to the integrated circuit and that includes an equation with a number of parameters and decision variables grouped into terms; and (3) a description of an input voltage. Based on these inputs, the system calculates an output such as a voltage or current. The system displays a GUI that includes a view which shows each of the terms of the equation after a value has been assigned to each parameter and to each decision variable and a view which shows each of the terms of the equation after reduction of the values assigned to each parameter and each decision variable. Upon receipt of a user's change to the value of a parameter, the system promptly updates the views.
US08332198B1 Data generation and collection from a real-time system for non-real-time software simulation
A method and apparatus for testing the functionality of a circuit design uses working system data that is recorded in real-time to stimulate and/or verify a software simulation of the circuit design that does not run in real-time. In a selected embodiment, a system for simulating and verifying a software model of a baseband module circuit design is described in connection with using real-time input and output data captured from a corresponding circuit in a reference platform. The captured real-time data may include digital baseband I/Q samples and/or extracted control data pertaining to the signal level, channel frequency, gain, output power, frequency offset, DC offset, or the like. The captured data may be regenerated for use as a stimulus for the software model of the circuit design and/or to verify the functionality of the design. Additional processing of the captured data can remove non-idealities that may be present in the reference platform, and can synchronize the regeneration of the captured data with the timing requirements of the non-real-time software model.
US08332197B2 Simulation of complex system architecture
A method for simulating a chip is provided. The method initiates with defining a library of components for a processor. Then, the interconnections for a set of pipelined processors including the processor are defined. Next, a processor circuit is generated by combining the library of components and the interconnections for the set of pipelined processors. Then, a code representation of a model of the set of pipelined processors is generated. Next, the signals generated by the code representation are compared to the signals generated by the processor circuit. If the comparison of the signals is unacceptable, then the method includes identifying a cause of the unacceptable comparison of the signals at a block level of the processor circuit. A method for generating a netlist for a pipeline of processors, a method for debugging the processor circuit and computer code for simulating a chip circuit are also provided.
US08332188B2 Modeling of systems using canonical form functions and symbolic regression
An apparatus and method to generate and evolve canonical form expressions representing a characteristic of a given system. Static and dynamic behavior of non-linear electrical circuits can be modeled. Searching of canonical form expressions can use evolutionary algorithms, simulated annealing and Tabu searching.
US08332183B2 Detection and analysis apparatus for membrane filtration process
The present invention discloses a detection and analysis apparatus, comprising a photo sensing device, comprising a plurality of sensing elements linearly arranged to form a first array, for detecting a signal of the thickness change of the cake at a linear position of the filter medium; a driving device, for driving the photo sensing device to move relatively parallel to the filter medium on the top of the cake so that the photo sensing device detects the thickness change of the cake on at least one local plane of the filter medium; and a data processing device, coupling to the photo sensing device, for continuously processing and analyzing the signal detected by the photo sensing device to thereby in-situ estimate the thickness change of the cake on the at least one local plane of the filter medium during the filtration process.
US08332179B2 Sensor device for a fluid power apparatus
A sensor device for a fluid power apparatus and in particular a pneumatic cylinder comprises at least one sensor for producing at least one sensor value on the basis of a property or a condition of the fluid power apparatus, and a sensor communication means for the transmission of the at least one sensor value. As regards the sensor device there is a provision such that it includes a reading means for reading apparatus identification data characterizing the fluid power apparatus and the sensor device is adapted for the transmission of the apparatus identification data by way of the sensor communication means.
US08332177B2 System and method for testing a characteristic impedance of a signal path routing of a printed circuit board
A method for testing a characteristic impedance of a signal path routing of a printed circuit board (PCB) controls the test device to test a characteristic impedance of the signal path routing of the PCB to get test data of the signal path routing of the PCB. The method further analyzes the test data of the signal path routing of the PCB get analysis results, generate a test report for storing the test data of each signal path routing of the PCB and the analysis results if all signal path routings of the PCB have been tested.
US08332171B2 Waveform observing apparatus
There is provided a waveform observing apparatus, which facilitates management of compressed data and measured data that were created for a reduced display, reduces a calculating amount in making the reduced display, and displays a boundary between stoppage and start of collection of measured data in a visually observable manner, in such a manner that, when a compression ratio is set to the number of pieces of data per display dot, a plurality of compressed data of a compressed-data file for display with a smaller compression ratio than the above used to calculate compressed data, to make a reduced display at the compression ratio after the setting change, final compressed data is created based upon measured data of a fraction at the time of stoppage of sampling, top compressed data is created based upon measured data of a fraction immediately after resuming of the sampling at the time of the resuming.
US08332168B2 Instrument power controller and method for adaptively providing an output voltage and an output current that together maintain a substantially constant electrical output power
An instrument power controller (120) for adaptively providing an output voltage VO and an output current IO that together maintain a substantially constant electrical output power PO is provided. The controller (120) includes inputs (121) for receiving an input power PI, outputs (122) for providing the substantially constant output power PO to a variable impedance load L, and a communication path (126) for receiving a load voltage VL. The instrument power controller (120) is configured to determine an input voltage VI and an input current II, determine an effective resistance RL of the load L and set the output voltage VO and the output current IO based on the input voltage VI, the input current II, and the effective resistance RL. The output voltage VO is substantially independent from the input voltage VI. The output voltage VO and the output current IO are varied to maximize a load power PL while maintaining the substantially constant electrical output power PO.
US08332167B2 Digital multi range liquid level detector
A digital multi range liquid level detector to verify and maintain a predetermined level in a container. The level is measured by a capacitive sensor located above or in the liquid to be maintained. The capacitive sensor is composed of a pair of probe connected to a signal converter chip to obtain a digital data. The digital data is then compared to a reference value obtain during the initial calibration. The present invention is composed of two paired components, a capacitive digital sensor and a fluid control valve that can be installed at different locations. The sensor determines the liquid level and then transmits the acquired data to the fluid valve control receiver via wire or radio frequency (RF). The sensor and valve are programmable in order to evaluate different possibilities such as water level, water activities and recurring low level demands. They can also be reprogrammed.
US08332165B1 Analysis of ultrasonic images using a decomposition process
A method and apparatus for identifying features for an object. Response signals are received in response to sending signals into an object at locations using a measurement system. A first matrix is formed. Each entry in the first matrix contains an amplitude of a response signal for a location and time at which the response signal was received with respect to when a corresponding signal was sent into the object. The first matrix is decomposed into a second matrix and third matrix such that a product of the second and third matrices represents the first matrix. A number of columns in the second matrix corresponds to a number of features for the object. A number of rows in the third matrix corresponds to a number of sets of weighting factors for the number of features. Information is identified about the features in the object using the second and third matrices.
US08332162B2 Apparatus and method for measuring the properties of petroleum fractions and pure hydrocarbon liquids by light refraction
A Method and apparatus to accurately measure and display various properties of hydrocarbons and petroleum factions for a small volume of sample in a short period of time in one test with less cost and energy for the analysis by the method of light refection. The refraction of light through the sample is measured and compared to the refraction f the light through vacuum by the apparatus. The method of the invention comprises a property estimation from the apparatus to output a property estimate value. The property estimation means is equipped with a property estimation model for evaluating the property estimate value outputted from the property estimation model. The method is incorporated into standard or otherwise any refractive index test apparatus or refractometer to provide accurate measure of the thermodynamic and transport properties of pure hydrocarbons and undefined multicomponent mixtures such as petroleum factions.
US08332160B1 Systems and methods for engineering nucleic acid constructs using scoring techniques
Systems and methods are provided for defining a nucleic acid construct for integration at locus L of an organism. Nucleic acid requests are received, each such request specifying a genetic change to L. The request are expanded into component polynucleotides which are then arranged into {AR1, . . . , ARm} different arrangements, each ARi in {AR1, . . . , ARm} defining a different arrangement of the component polynucleotides. A score Si for each ARi in {AR1, . . . , ARm} is determined based on whether source constructs encoding a portion ofARi are physically present. An ARf in {AR1, . . . , ARm} is selected based on the score for ARf. Primer pairs are calculated to amplify the portions of ARf not represented in the source constructs. The portions of ARf amplified by the primer pairs and the portions of ARf in the source constructs, ordered by ARf, define the nucleic acid construct.
US08332157B2 Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program
An information processing apparatus includes: an acquisition mechanism acquiring information on biological time of a user and information on a time difference between a movement source of the user and a movement destination; a storage mechanism storing model information produced by modeling a sunshine pattern, an expression pattern of a clock gene of a neuron of a ventrolateral area of a suprachiasmatic nucleus, and an expression pattern of a clock gene of a neuron of a dorsomedial area; and when a sunshine pattern of the movement source is changed in accordance with the time difference so as to become a sunshine pattern of the movement destination, a simulation mechanism simulating the expression pattern of the ventrolateral area and the expression pattern of the dorsomedial area on the basis of the model information using a state identified by the biological time as a starting state.
US08332154B2 Estimating reservoir properties from 4D seismic data
Method for deriving a reservoir property change data volume from time shifts used to time-align 4D seismic survey data (31). The time alignment is performed on at least one angle stack of 4D data to determine a time-shift data volume (32). When multiple angle stacks are used, the time shifts are corrected to zero offset. A running time window is defined, and within each window the time shifts are best fit to a straight-line function of time (depth), one angle stack at a time (33). The slopes from the straight line fits from different angle stacks are averaged at each voxel in the data volume, which yields a reservoir properties (Δν/ν) data volume (34). This data volume may be filtered with a low-pass filter to improve signal-to-noise (35). The resulting data volume may be merged with the 4D data volume to expand its bandwidth (36), or it may be converted into a reservoir saturation and pressure change data volume (38) using a rock-physics model (37).
US08332151B2 Gradient information calculating system, vehicle running control system, navigation system, and gradient information calculating method
A gradient information calculating system includes a first calculating unit (14) that detects three-dimensional location information through autonomous navigation, and calculates a first gradient value (θb, B), based on a distance (m) traveled, and an on-plane distance (L1) obtained by projecting the distance (m) traveled on a horizontal plane, a road map information storing unit (17) that stores road map information that represents each road by nodes of which the location information is known, and a link that connects the nodes, a second calculating unit (16) that estimates elevations of the nodes from previously measured elevation data, and calculates a second gradient value (A), based on a difference in elevation between the nodes and the length of the link, and a gradient data selecting unit (19) that selects one of the first and second gradient values to be adopted as a gradient value of the link, according to a difference between the first and the second gradient values.
US08332145B2 Method for continuously and adaptively generating a speed setpoint for an aircraft to observe an RTA
Method for generating a flight speed profile of an aircraft (100) according to an RTA constraint, characterized in that it permanently calculates, at any point of the flight plan, a speed setpoint VΩ(X) of the aircraft determined on the basis of reference speed profiles, comprising at least a minimum speed profile Vmin(X), and a maximum speed profile Vmax(X). The method can also take into account an optimum speed profile Vopt(X) determined, for example, on the basis of a cost or performance index.
US08332134B2 Three-dimensional LIDAR-based clear path detection
A method for detecting a clear path of travel for a vehicle includes generating a datastream corresponding to a three-dimensional scan of a target area surrounding the vehicle from a vehicle LIDAR system, estimating a ground plane for a present vehicle location using the datastream corresponding to the three-dimensional scan of the target area surrounding the vehicle, and comparing the datastream corresponding to the three-dimensional scan of the target area surrounding the vehicle with the estimated ground plane to detect a clear path of vehicle travel.
US08332132B2 Navigation device assisting road traffic congestion management
A navigation device has a GPRS receiver for receiving real-time information about slow traffic flow or slow average speed on a stretch of motorway, indicating congestion. The device calculates a new itinerary to avoid the congestion, based on historically recorded speeds on secondary roads weighed by the current average speed in the congestion area.
US08332127B2 Dual injection for torque reduction
A system comprises a torque control module, a combustion prediction module, and a fuel control module. The torque control module sets spark timing of an engine to produce a drive torque and determines an amount of delay to add to the spark timing to decrease the drive torque by a predetermined torque. The combustion prediction module predicts whether a single injection of fuel will combust in a cylinder of the engine when the amount of delay is added to the spark timing. The fuel control module actuates a plurality of separate injections of fuel into the cylinder when the combustion prediction module predicts that the single injection of fuel will not combust.
US08332123B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a continuous ingress of fuel into the lubricating oil of an internal combustion engine during cold starting
In a method and an apparatus for detecting a continuous ingress of fuel into the lubricating oil of an internal combustion engine, that is to say oil dilution, in particular of a motor vehicle during cold starting, there is provision, in particular, for the continuous ingress of fuel to be detected by means of a lambda control. The continuous ingress of fuel is preferably determined using the outgassing of fuel from a crankcase of the internal combustion engine, wherein the depletion is based on adaptation values of the lambda control.
US08332120B2 Method for increasing active duration time of an automatic freewheeling function in a vehicle
A method for increasing active duration time of an automatic freewheeling function in a vehicle with cruise control and during a cruise control active period is provided. The function includes an arrangement for determining a vehicle set speed (Vset speed) for when the function is allowed to be activated and an arrangement for calculating a predetermined allowable vehicle speed drop to a first under speed value (Vunderspeed) below the vehicle set speed (Vset speed), The function is controlled based on the under speed value, in order to extend active duration time of the function.
US08332119B2 System for controlling a motor vehicle driving downhill
A system for a hill descent control in the braking equipment of a motor vehicle comprising an electrically controllable service brake system, which is designed both for an anti-locking control function and for a braking function irrespective of actuation by the driver, a brake actuator which permits an individual adjustment of the braking pressures or braking moments generated for the individual wheels of a motor vehicle, which are the respective manipulated variables controlled by the hill descent control, an electronic control unit being provided for the electronic control and/or regulation which directly or indirectly detects variables related to operating conditions of the motor vehicle and adjusts additional braking moments when driving on steeply inclined roads, irrespective of whether a brake pedal is actuated.
US08332115B2 Braking apparatus
A pressure braking unit including an operating pressure applying unit that applies an operating pressure to a working fluid according to operation of an operating member; a pressurizing unit that applies a pressurized pressure to the working fluid; a braking force generating unit that generates pressure braking force on wheels by a total pressure of the operating pressure and the pressurized pressure; a regenerative braking unit that generates regenerative braking force on the wheels; and a controlling unit that executes switching control to switch the regenerative braking force to the pressure braking force according to the pressurized pressure, and by prohibiting increase in the pressurized pressure by the pressurizing unit, it is possible to inhibit braking operation feeling from deteriorating while ensuring the braking force.
US08332109B2 Closed-loop feedback control and reduction of the torque converter clutch slip for enhanced drivability for heavy tip-in maneuvers
A method for responding to a rapid change in engine torque includes monitoring a change in engine torque and determining a rapid change in engine torque when the change in engine torque exceeds a threshold change in engine torque. Subsequent to determining a rapid change in engine torque, an increase in the torque converter slip is provided by reducing the torque converter clutch pressure command by a selected value and thereafter the feedback control is deactivated for a predetermined duration. Subsequent to the predetermined duration, the feedback control is reactivated to decrease the torque converter slip toward a desired torque converter slip value.
US08332108B2 System for determining a vehicle mass-based breakpoint for selecting between two different transmission shift schedules
A method is provided for selecting between economy mode and performance mode shift schedules for a transmission in a motor vehicle. A desired vehicle acceleration profile is specified, and a cumulative net tractive force of the vehicle is determined over the desired vehicle acceleration profile. A change in vehicle speed over the desired vehicle acceleration profile is also determined. A vehicle mass-based shift schedule breakpoint is computed as a function of the cumulative net tractive force of the vehicle and the change in vehicle speed over the desired vehicle acceleration profile. The vehicle mass-based shift schedule breakpoint is compared to a current vehicle mass indicator, and one of the economy mode and performance mode shift schedules is selected for operation of the transmission based on the comparison. Shifting between gear ranges of the transmission is controlled using the selected one of the economy mode and performance mode shift schedules.
US08332107B2 Shift controller for automatic transmission
A shift controller for an automatic transmission capable of automatically shifting up in a manual mode is provided. In the shift controller, a hysteresis between an automatic upshift line and a downshift permission line is set to be smaller as the accelerator opening degree decreases. As a result, when the accelerator opening degree is larger and therefore hunting is more likely to occur, it is possible to avoid an excessively small time interval between a downshift and an upshift. On the other hand, when the accelerator opening degree is smaller and therefore hunting is less likely to occur, a manual downshift permission region can be expanded to a higher rotational speed region, whereby a driver's manual downshift request can be satisfied in a higher vehicle speed region.
US08332106B2 Tether tracking system and method for mobile machine
A tether tracking system for a mobile machine is disclosed. The tether tracking system may have a spool located on the mobile machine to selectively dispense and reel in a tether extending from the mobile machine to a stationary source as the mobile machine travels about a worksite. The tether tracking system may also have at least one sensor associated with the spool to generate a first signal indicative of a spool parameter, a locating system associated with the mobile machine to generate a second signal indicative of a location of the mobile machine, and a controller in communication with the at least one sensor and the locating system. The controller may be configured to determine a tether avoidance zone based on the first and second signals.
US08332102B2 Vehicle safety system
A vehicle safety system for detecting a side impact, the system comprising at least one sensor operable to detect one or more parameters relating to the rate of yaw of the vehicle, and to provide an output that is dependent upon the longitudinal position along the vehicle of the side impact.
US08332095B2 Computer controlled system and method for ensuring all vehicles entering and/or in an area are GPS location registered
A computer system and method wherein each vehicle in a jurisdiction, as a result of a regular or temporary registration process when the vehicle enters a jurisdiction temporarily at a border point, has a GPS receiver and transmitter installed and transmitting to a storage which stores for each vehicle identification code the location data and time An alarm detection system detects either loss of signal or tampering. A monitoring system also detects moving vehicles in an area, and positions reported by the monitoring means are compared with information being recorded on the computer system, and if these do not correlate, an unregistered vehicle alarm is generated. The system may be limited to vehicles entering at a border point, or new vehicles with GPS receivers and wireless transmitters installed at the time of manufacture.
US08332094B2 Vehicular passenger detection system
A vehicular passenger detection system includes a load detection device configured to detect a load that acts upon a seat that is installed upon a vehicle, a passenger seating detection device configured to determine whether or not a passenger is seated upon the seat, in accordance with a result of a detection of the load detection device, and a fault recording device configured to record an information of a fault that has occurred upon either the load detection device or the passenger seating detection device. The fault recording device includes a fault determination device configured to determine whether or not the information of the fault is information of a fault for which a repair is required.
US08332092B2 Method for detecting the state of a tire
A method for detecting the state of a vehicle tire and/or a roadway, in which at least one sensor, in particular an acceleration sensor, disposed in the tire interior generates a signal that is assigned to physical variables of the vehicle tire and/or the roadway. A tire state and/or characteristics of the roadway are/is determined on the basis of the signal.
US08332089B2 Travel controller for work vehicle
A vehicle 1 used for work at elevated locations comprises a travel body 10, whose front wheels 11a, 11b are drive wheels, a steering cylinder 17, two travel motors 12, a battery B, an inverter IV, a travel operation lever 41, and a steering dial 42. In the vehicle, the steering cylinder 17 drives a steering mechanism 13, which directs the drive wheels 11a, 11b, to change the steering angle of the drive wheels 11a, 11b, and the travel motors 12a, 12b, which receive electric power from the battery B, respectively, drive the drive wheels 11a, 11b. The inverter IV converts DC power from the battery B to AC power, which is supply to the travel motors 12a, 12b to drive the rotation of both the drive motors. The travel operation lever 41 is operated for travel control while the steering dial 42 is operated to steer the travel body 10. The vehicle further comprises a steering control unit 53 and an inverter control unit 51. The steering control unit 53 controls the operation of the steering cylinder 17, so that the steering angle of the drive wheels corresponds to the operation of the steering dial 42, and the inverter control unit 51 controls the operation of the inverter IV to rotate the travel motors 12a, 12b at a speed that corresponds to the operation of the travel operation lever 41.
US08332088B2 Control device and control method for vehicle
In a hybrid vehicle equipped with an EV switch and a cruise switch operated by the driver, an ECU detects on/off of the EV switch and on/off of the cruise switch, determines whether or not both the EV switch and the cruise switch are on, and if both of them are on, prohibits transmission of an EV travel control command to an inverter and an engine ECU and transmits a cruise travel control command thereto.
US08332083B1 System and method for generating a missed approach path
A method for calculating a safe extraction path from a terrain-challenged airport that does not depend upon published procedures. The method includes the steps of: a) defining at least one containment zone for a circling climb departure path relative to a reference location; b) receiving aircraft performance data from an on-board flight management system; c) receiving air mass parameters from on-board aircraft sensors; d) calculating the maximum allowable climb altitude (MACA) utilizing the at least one containment zone, the received aircraft performance data, and the received air mass parameters; and, e) comparing the MACA to at least one selected safe departure altitude (SDA) to calculate the lowest possible descent altitude that can be achieved while ensuring that at least one safe extraction path exists.
US08332082B2 Flight control laws for constant vector flat turns
An aircraft and method to control flat yawing turns of the aircraft while maintaining a constant vector across a ground surface. The aircraft includes a control system in data communication with control actuators, a lateral control architecture, a longitudinal control architecture, and an initialization command logic. The lateral control architecture controls the aircraft in the lateral direction, while the longitudinal control architecture controls the aircraft in the longitudinal direction. The initialization command logic automatically activates the lateral control architecture and the longitudinal control architecture to maintain a constant vector across the ground whenever a directional control input is made at low speed.
US08332080B2 Method and device to assist in navigation in an airport sector
The invention relates to a method and device to assist in navigation in an airport sector. The inventive method and device make it possible to automatically calculate the points of intersection between the path of the flight plan and the zones having speed limitations all around an airport and calculate a speed profile conforming to these limitations. The inventive method and device also make it possible to use an automatic guidance automatically defining flight instructions corresponding to the calculated speed profile. Furthermore, the invention calculates predictions concerning the flight parameters.
US08332079B2 Apparatus and method for remotely controlling vehicle engine speed
An apparatus for remotely controlling the speed of an engine includes a housing and a control knob. A position shaft is fixedly connected to the control knob for rotation therewith and a position gear is fixedly secured to the position shaft for rotation therewith. A rotary encoder has a shaft in operative engagement with the position gear such that rotation of the position gear rotates the encoder shaft. The rotary encoder generates output signals based on a direction of rotation and angular displacement of the control knob. A processor receives the output signals from the rotary encoder and generates output signals proportional to the direction of rotation and angular displacement of the control knob. A primary engine control unit is remotely located with respect to the remote housing for receiving the output signals from the processor and directly controlling the speed of the engine based upon the received signals.
US08332072B1 Robotic hand controller
A robotic hand controller, having 8 Degrees of Freedom, with force feedback mechanisms in one or more and preferably all available degrees of freedom is provided. The hand controller is used with a plurality of end effectors such as forceps and scissors. The plurality of robotic arms and the plurality of end effectors are controlled by a surgeon working on a robotic console. The robotic console includes the robotic hand controller which allows the surgeon to perform motion in 8 Degrees of Freedom using the end effectors.
US08332070B2 Learning and use of schemata in robotic devices
A robotic controller using schemata, the schemata being a set of parameterized sequences of motor commands in order to make a robot to achieve a set goal, the parameters of the sequences being gained from the state variables of the robotic controller, a robotic controller comprising an interface for supplying sensory input to the robotic controller. A schemata state memory (1) structure supplied with either input from a schemata recognition module (4) or input from an inverse model module (2) or combinations of them. An inverse model module (2) for generating motor commands based on state variables and stored schemata, a forward model module (3) for predicting state variables based on state variables and stored schemata, and a schemata recognition module (4) for selecting a schemata based on supplied state variables of the robot controlled by the robotic controller.
US08332060B2 Acoustic design support apparatus
In an acoustic design support apparatus, a speaker selection supporter selects a desired speaker as a candidate for use in a given space based on shape information representing a shape of the space. A speaker mounting angle optimizer calculates an optimal mounting direction of the selected speaker by selecting a mounting direction pattern which minimizes a degree of variation among sound pressure levels at a plurality of positions on a sound receiving surface defined in the space. An acoustic parameter calculator calculates a variety of acoustic parameters at sound receiving points within the space based on both of the shape information of the space and the optimal mounting direction of the speaker.
US08332058B2 Digital microphone
The invention relates to a process for the transmission of digitized audio information of high quality and with a short delay, in particular processes for the transmission of digitized audio information in an audio pickup (microphone) and/or playback path. According to the invention there is proposed a channel filter which is used to shape the high frequency spectrum of the transmission, wherein the spectrum has no attenuation in a first range of about 100 to 300 kHz useful bandwidth and in a range outside the first range it has a stop-band attenuation of particularly preferably more than 60 dB or more than 80 dB.
US08332051B2 High impedance active fixation electrode of an electrical medical lead
Electrical medical leads having active fixation electrodes, particularly helix electrodes intended to be screwed into body tissue, e.g., the heart, are disclosed having selectively applied insulation to optimize exposed electrode surface area and dispose the exposed electrode surface area toward tissue that is less traumatized by injury caused by screwing in the fixation helix. In a preferred fabrication method, an outer helical surface is masked by contact with a masking tube while a dielectric coating is applied to the inner helical surface of the coil turns of the helix, and the masking tube is removed when the dielectric coating has set. In one variation, at least one aperture is formed through the masking tube sidewall exposing an area of the outer helical surface thereby interrupting the uninsulated outer helical electrode.
US08332050B2 Medical device lead including a unifilar coil with improved torque transmission capacity and reduced MRI heating
A conductor assembly for a medical device lead includes a helically coiled conductor including a plurality of turns having a coil pitch and an outer diameter and consisting of one filar having a filar diameter. The coil pitch and outer diameter are selected based on the filar diameter to minimize heating of the helically coiled conductor in the presence of an MRI field. A polymer sheath is formed about the helically coiled conductor such that the coil pitch of the unifilar helically coiled conductor is maintained. The polymer sheath is configured to increase a torque transmitting capacity of the helically coiled conductor.
US08332046B2 Neural interface system
A neural interface system including an electrode array and a carrier that supports the electrode array, in which the electrode array includes a substrate rolled into a three-dimensional shape, a plurality of conductive traces patterned on the substrate and adapted to transmit electrical signals, and a plurality of elliptically shaped, externally facing electrode sites coupled to the plurality of conductive traces that electrically communicate with their surroundings. The plurality of electrodes are arranged in a triangular lattice circumferentially around and axially along the carrier, and the substrate includes an edge that extends axially along the carrier and is constrained between a first axial row portion of the plurality of electrode sites and a second axial row portion of the plurality of electrode sites adjacent to the first axial row portion.
US08332044B2 Percutaneous access for neuromodulation procedures
A neuromodulation system, comprises an implantable electrode which is implanted within a body adjacent to a target nerve structure to which electric energy is to be applied via the electrode and a connection port which is implanted in the body with a proximal surface thereof substantially flush with an outer surface of a skin of the body, the connection port including a device interface for electrically connecting to an external device which remains external to the body in combination with an electric line extending from the device interface to the electrode for carrying electric energy from the external device to the electrode and a cover selectively closing an opening of the external surface of the implanted connection port.
US08332036B2 Leadless cardiac stimulation systems
Various configurations of systems that employ leadless electrodes to provide pacing therapy are provided. In one example, a system that provides multiple sites for pacing of myocardium of a heart includes wireless pacing electrodes that are implantable at sites proximate the myocardium using a percutaneous, transluminal, catheter delivery system. Each of the electrodes contains a source of electrical energy for pacing the myocardium and is adapted to receive electromagnetic energy from a source outside the myocardium. The system also includes a source adapted for placement outside the myocardium and that uses locally measured electrocardiograms to synchronize pacing of the heart by sending electromagnetic commands to the electrodes to pace the myocardium surrounding the electrodes. Also disclosed is various configurations of such systems, wireless electrode assemblies, and delivery catheters for delivering and implanting the electrode assemblies.
US08332034B2 Heart sound tracking system and method
A system and method provide heart sound tracking, including an input circuit, configured to receive heart sound information, and a heart sound recognition circuit. The heart sound recognition circuit can be coupled to the input circuit and can be configured to recognize, within a particular heart sound of a particular heart sound waveform, a first intra heart sound energy indication and a corresponding first intra heart sound time indication using the heart sound information from the particular heart sound waveform and the heart sound information from at least one other heart sound waveform. The particular heart sound can include at least a portion of one of S1, S2, S3, and S4. Further, the first intra heart sound energy indication and the corresponding first intra heart sound time indication can correspond to the at least a portion of one of S1, S2, S3, and S4, respectively.
US08332029B2 Implant system and method using implanted passive conductors for routing electrical current
The present invention provides improvements to an implant, system and method using passive electrical conductors which route electrical current to either external or implanted electrical devices, to multiple target body tissues and to selective target body tissues. The passive electrical conductor extends from subcutaneous tissue located below either a surface cathodic electrode or a surface anodic electrode a) to a target tissue to route electrical signals from the target body tissue to devices external to the body; b) to implanted electrical devices to deliver electrical current to such devices, or c) to multiple target body tissues or to selective target body tissues to stimulate the target body tissues. The conductor has specialized ends for achieving such purposes.
US08332028B2 Protected lithium electrodes for electro-transport drug delivery
This invention provides new and novel devices and methods for administering lithium (Li) ions to a mammalian subject, especially delivery of the lithium (Li) ions to a body component for example across a body or tissue surface such as skin or a mucosal membrane, or for the delivery of the lithium ions directly to bodily fluids in a controllable and reproducible manner. In certain embodiments the device comprises a donor electrode that is a donor of the lithium ions; a protective architecture that is ionically conductive to the lithium ions, configured for application to a skin surface and positioned to isolate said donor electrode from the skin surface; and a counter electrode configured for application to the skin surface, where said counter electrode is operably coupled to said donor electrode.
US08332022B2 Methods and apparatus for discriminating polymorphic tachyarrhythmias from monomorphic tachyarrhythmias facilitating detection of fibrillation
Methods and apparatus are provided for discriminating high rate polymorphic QRS complexes from high rate monomorphic QRS complexes to increase the specificity of detection of polymorphic VT and VF employing wavelet transform signal processing of the QRS complexes are disclosed. Wavelet transforms are applied to the sampled amplitude values of a sequence of QRS complexes to develop wavelet transform coefficient (WTC) data sets. At least selected ones of the WTC data sets are processed and comparisons are made to determine a wavelet match score. A determination is made as a function of the wavelet match scores of the series of successive QRS complexes that characterizes the most recent QRS complex as more or less likely to signify polymorphic VT or VF.
US08332021B2 Fetal monitoring
A system for monitoring a fetus during gestation comprises an input for receiving a plurality of electric signals measured on a surface of a maternal body; and a processor for providing a fetal electrocardiogram based on the received electric signals and based on an orientation of the fetus, wherein the fetal electrocardiogram represents a projection of a fetal cardiac potential vector according to a predetermined projection direction that is fixed with respect to the fetus. The fetal vector electrocardiogram is projected according to the projection direction. An at least partial representation of a fetal vector electrocardiogram is provided in dependence on the plurality of electric signals and indicative of a time path of an electrical field vector generated by a fetal heart of the fetus.
US08332020B2 Two-wrist data gathering system
Sensing is carried out from locations at considerable remove from the stomach. Cooperating sensor electronics are placed at each of two wrists of the patient. The potential discomfort and inconvenience of an abdominal patch are reduced or eliminated. And alternative power sources become available.
US08332019B2 Electrocardiographic signal detection device
An electrocardiographic signal detection device that includes at least one pair of electrodes that detect electrical signals of a living body; an insulating film disposed on the at least one pair of electrodes, the insulating film having a living body contact surface; a differential amplifier that generates an electrocardiographic signal by differentially amplifying the electrical signals of the living body; and an arithmetic processing unit that obtains biological information based on the electrocardiographic signal generated by the differential amplifier, wherein the insulating film and the at least one pair of electrodes are arranged such that the electrical signals of the living body are detected through capacitive coupling between the living body in contact with the living body contact surface of the insulating film and the at least one pair of electrodes.
US08332018B2 Method and arrangement to predict at least one system event and a corresponding computer program and a corresponding machine-readable storage medium
A method, a system and an arrangement to predict at least one system event and a corresponding computer program and a corresponding machine-readable storage medium are configured so that the event is predictable because of trends in observables over a certain period before the occurrence of the events. The method, system and arrangement can be used in particular for patient-specific monitoring of patho-physiological changes but also in geophysical or abstract units such as population or economic systems in which the deviation from a defined normal condition is predicted.
US08331995B2 Secondary radio-nodes for mobile communications networks and related methods
A mobile communications network may include a primary and secondary radio-nodes, and the secondary radio-node may include a radio-node transmitter and a radio-node receiver. A method of operating the secondary radio-node may include monitoring through the radio-node receiver of the secondary radio-node to detect user terminal signals transmitted to the primary radio-node while maintaining the secondary radio-node in a sleep mode. Responsive to detecting user terminal signals during monitoring in the sleep-mode, operation of the secondary radio-node may be changed from the sleep mode to an active mode.
US08331988B2 Information processing device, information processing method, and program
An information processing device that includes processing devices and a relay device. Each processing device has at least one processing function associated with a unique function information item, a function determination portion, and a device information item notification portion. The function determination portion determines whether the processing device includes a processing function that corresponds to a function information item received from the relay device. If the processing device has the processing function, the device information item notification portion transmits a device information item to the relay device. The relay device includes a storage portion that stores the device information items, a function information item transmission portion, and a device information item recording portion.
US08331986B2 Communication system and communication method
The present invention relates to a communication system and a communication method for simply and quickly starting communication. A cellular phone is loaded with a non-contact IC card that communicates with a reader/writer of a personal computer using an electromagnetic wave. When the non-contact IC card receives the electromagnetic wave emitted from the reader/writer with the cellular phone placed close to the personal computer, the cellular phone notifies the personal computer of a card ID set in the non-contact IC card. When the personal computer acquires Bluetooth device names of the cellular phone and PDA with intra-piconet synchronization established between the cellular phone and the PDA, the personal computer identifies the cellular phone as a communication partner based on the Bluetooth device names already notified of as the card ID. The present invention is applicable to an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer and a cellular phone.
US08331980B2 Portable electronic apparatus capable of simulating as a wireless communication product and method thereof
A portable electronic apparatus consists of a wireless module, a micro-processing unit, a determining circuit, and a control circuit. The wireless module provides a wireless communication function, and a first controller of the micro-processing unit provides a data access function. When a designated device is coupled to the portable electronic apparatus, the determining circuit determines whether to use the wireless communication function and whether to use the data access function in order to generate a determining result. The control circuit selectively connects a transmission interface of the first controller or a transmission interface of the wireless module to the designated device according to the determining result. When the control circuit connects the transmission interface of the wireless module to the designated device, the portable electronic apparatus is simulated as a wireless communication product.
US08331973B2 Method and system for terminal PTT registration based on CDMA trunking system
The present invention provides a method of terminal PTT registration based on CDMA trunking system and the system thereof, comprising: a user terminal is powered and a normal CDMA registration flow is completed, and afterwards the value of a PTT registration message counter is initialized; the user terminal sends a PTT registration message to a dispatching sub-system (server) and starts a PTT registration timer; and a corresponding process is performed according to the response message from the dispatching server, which is the reception of the trunking registration or the rejection of the trunking registration. Therefore the terminal with CDMA trunking function can avoid the problem caused by a failed PTT registration.
US08331972B2 Resolving potential conflicts in interoperability communications
A communication device and computerized method to address conflicts in Virtual Talk Groups is provided. The method may comprise accessing a database to monitor resources in a plurality of Virtual Talk Groups (VTG) to detect if there is at least a potential conflict of the resources. When the potential conflict is detected, the method comprises identifying at least one resource which is contributing to the potential conflict, and initiating automatically an electronic communication to identify the potential conflict. In response to the electronic communication, a new VTG may be initiated and terminals of administrators associated with the conflicting resource may be assigned to the new VTG. Each administrator may administer an associated VTG.
US08331971B2 Group call in a communications system
The present invention relates to an ad-hoc group call made from a subscriber device of a communications system. A list of subscribers is stored in a phonebook application in a subscriber device. A user can activate a group call and select two or more subscribers from the phonebook. In response to such selection, the subscriber device provides appropriate signalling with a group communication service in a network infrastructure for establishing an ad-hoc group call consisting of the selected subscribers and the user of the subscriber device. The ad-hoc group is deleted when the call ends.
US08331967B2 Base station, mobile station, and redirected cell determination method
One feature of the present invention relates to a base station for operating multiple cells each having a predefined bandwidth, including: a redirected cell determination unit configured to determine, in response to receipt of mobile station capability information indicative of at least one of a bandwidth and a frequency band that a mobile station residing in a coverage area of the base station is capable of handling, at least one of a redirected cell and a cell layer for the mobile station associated with the mobile station capability information as redirected cell information for redirecting the mobile station; and a transmission unit configured to transmit the redirected cell information to the mobile station.
US08331958B2 Automatically identifying location information in text data
Techniques are described for automatically identifying/recognizing location information in received data and then providing navigational-related functions associated with the location information. In one or more implementations, automatically identifying location information may be performed using a locale context. More particularly, the locale context may serve as a basis for determining how text data is parsed and which expressions are used to parse text in order to recognize the location information.
US08331953B2 System and method for estimating the location of a mobile device
A system and method for estimating the location of a mobile station that receives signals from a plurality of base stations. The base station timing offsets may be estimated utilizing an observed time difference of arrival value at the mobile between a first signal received from a first base station and a second signal received from a second base station. An initial location for the mobile is randomly selected and an estimated location is determined using the selected initial location, the observed time difference of arrival value, and an iterative search algorithm. The estimated location may be stored if the estimated location is within a predetermined area. In addition, for each such estimated location, the applicable base station time offsets that relate to this location may be updated to generate a current best estimate. A calculated location for the mobile may be determined from stored estimated locations and the current base station time offset estimates.
US08331950B2 Mobile communication system, radio network controller and method
A radio network controller connected to multiple exchanges in a mobile communication system includes an exchange side interface configured to communicate with the multiple exchanges, a mobile station side interface configured to receive a call connection signal from a mobile station via a radio base station, a management unit configured to manage congestion levels indicative of congestion states of the respective exchanges and a control unit. The exchange side interface acquires the congestion levels from the respective exchanges, and the control unit determines to transfer a predefined ratio of call connection signals destined for an exchange having a higher congestion level to an exchange having a lower congestion level, the ratio being predefined corresponding to the congestion level.
US08331946B2 Methods and apparatus for supporting multiple users in a system with multiple polarized antennas
Methods and apparatus which support the use of differently polarized antennas to schedule two or more users employing multiple antennas with different polarization, on the same communications segment, e.g. a time/frequency slab, in either the uplink or downlink are described. Various embodiments include an access node which classifies and schedules wireless terminals to segments as a function of suitability for single polarization direction communications. Some embodiments are directed to methods and apparatus for operating a communications device supporting the use of multiple antennas having different polarization, to implement a polarization based multiple access scheme. Unlike Spatial Division multiple access schemes, the users sharing a communications segment in the polarization based scheme need not be geographically well separated. Another advantage of using the proposed method is that the communications system does not necessarily have to use a complex minimum mean square error receiver or implement successive iteration cancellation techniques, thereby reducing cost and system complexity.
US08331943B2 Measurement opportunities for a mobile unit operating with a switched beam antenna in a CDMA system
Measurement opportunities are provided to a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) operating with a switched beam antenna in a CDMA wireless communication system. The switched beam antenna is a smart antenna generating a plurality of directional beams and an omni-directional beam. The bursty nature of packet data transmission generates periods of inactivity or low traffic during a call. The WTRU switches to antenna beams other than the selected antenna beam for receiving and measuring signals during these periods of inactivity or low traffic. Moreover, if the network has knowledge of the fact the WTRU is operating using a switched beam antenna, the network can use this information when making decisions on channel allocations, thus providing frequent measurement opportunities to the WTRU in order to support the switched beam antenna operation.
US08331941B2 Method of providing messages to a mobile unit on a forward link
The present invention provides a method of wireless communication using a mobile unit and first and second base stations. The method includes receiving, from the second base station, a notification of a switch of the first base station to the second base station. The method also includes providing at least one message to the second base station in response to receiving the notification.
US08331939B2 Method and apparatus for neighbor cell configuration and method and apparatus for femtocell base station configuration
The present invention discloses a method and an apparatus for neighbor cell configuration and a method and an apparatus for femtocell base station configuration. The neighbor cell configuration method includes: obtaining information of at least one macro cell; obtaining neighbor cell information of the at least one macro cell; and performing neighbor cell configuration according to the information of the at least one macro cell and the neighbor cell information. With the method and apparatus for neighbor cell configuration and the method and apparatus for femtocell base station configuration, complete femtocell base station neighbor cell information is obtained so that a femtocell base station can be configured automatically. This avoids call drops during handovers and increases the success rate of handovers, and the implementation is easy.
US08331928B2 Method and apparatus to facilitate using multiple carrier frequencies
A wireless radio frequency transmitter (400), upon detecting (101) an end user assertion of an end user interface and in automatic response thereto, uses a first rolling carrier frequency to transmit (102) a message. Upon then determining (104) that the end user is continuing to assert this end user interface, this transmitter then re-transmits (105) that message using a predetermined fixed carrier frequency. By one approach, the first rolling carrier frequency is selected from amongst a pool of candidate carrier frequencies using a carrier frequency calculation formula. By another approach, this carrier frequency is selected from one or more tables that comprise a plurality of different carrier frequencies.
US08331923B2 Wireless provisioning solution for target devices
Systems and methods to provision a non-handset target device with wide-area communication service, such as wireless wide area network (WWAN) technology. Identifying information of the target device can be provided to a provisioning service provider (PSP) via a mobile provisioning device over a communication network. The PSP can determine the service carrier associated with the mobile provisioning device and enable the provisioning of the target device with the wide-area communication service to the service carrier via the mobile provisioning device. A billing plan can be instituted for the service of the target non-handset device relating to a billing plan of the mobile provisioning device.
US08331914B2 Method for setting coloring ring back tone
The invention relates to a method for setting a CRBT, including: initiating a call to a called terminal and receiving a CRBT sent from a CBC, by a calling terminal in a communication network; during the process of playing the CRBT or the communication process or after the call is ended, authenticating the calling terminal by the communication network in response to a CRBT setting request message sent by the calling terminal or the called terminal actively or upon an inquiry, so as to judge whether the calling terminal activated a CRBT service; if it is judged that the calling terminal has not activated a CRBT service, sending, by the communication network, a CRBT service activation message to the calling terminal to instruct the calling terminal to subscribe the CRBT service, and then subscribing, by the calling terminal, the CRBT service through a response to the message; and if it is judged the calling terminal already activated the CRBT service, or the CRBT service is activated by the calling terminal responding to the CRBT service activation message, instructing, by the communication network, the CBC to set a CRBT same as or similar to or associated with the CRBT received by the calling terminal into a CRBT library for the calling terminal.
US08331906B2 Methods, apparatuses, system, and related computer program products for handover security
It is disclosed a method comprising receiving, prior to a handover operation, first key indication information, creating, prior to the handover operation, key information based on the received first key indication information, retaining the created key information, sending, after the handover operation, the received first key indication information associated with the key information created prior to the handover operation, and retrieving, after the handover operation, the retained key information based on the first key indication information; and a method comprising generating, prior to the handover operation, the first key indication information associated with key information intended to be created, sending, prior to the handover operation, the generated first key indication information, and receiving, after the handover operation, second key indication information corresponding to the generated first key indication information.
US08331903B2 Charging method and system for push-to-talk over cellular system
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a charging method and system for a Push-to-talk over Cellular (PoC) system. The charging method for a PoC system includes: after sending an initial online charging request to an Online Charging System (OCS), receiving an initial online charging response message that is sent by the OCS and carries a downlink channel type switching trigger variable; monitoring a type of a downlink channel used by a PoC service according to the downlink channel type switching trigger variable; and sending an online charging request to the OCS if switching of the type of the downlink channel used by the PoC service is detected, where the online charging request includes a switched type of the downlink channel. The embodiments of the present invention implement precise and proper charging for a PoC client when the PoC client switches a channel.
US08331901B2 Device assisted ambient services
Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device implements a service profile for assisting control of the communications device use of a service on a network, in which the service profile includes service policy settings, and the service profile is associated with an ambient service plan that provides for initial access to the service with limited service capabilities prior to activation of a new service plan; and monitors use of the service based on the service profile.
US08331892B2 Method and system for DC compensation and AGC
A technique for performing AGC and DC compensation in a receiver. The receiver comprises an energy estimator for generating an estimate of the level of a received signal; an RF device to apply gain to the received signal; an AGC for controlling the RF device gain based on the energy estimation; a first DC compensation loop for finely adjusting the DC component of the received signal in fast or slow tracking mode (FTM or STM); and a second DC compensation loop for coarsely adjusting the DC component of the received signal. Three modes of AGC operations: In Acquisition, iterations of FTM fine DC adjustment, short energy estimation, and RF device gain adjustment are performed during signal timing detection. In Connected, long energy estimation, RF device gain adjustment, and STM fine and coarse DC adjustments are performed during superframe preamble. In Sleep, FTM fine DC adjustment, short energy estimation, and RF device gain adjustment are performed during superframe preamble.
US08331889B2 Automatic fuse architecture
An automatic fuse architecture is described. An incoming signal is received and detected to determine whether the signal exceeds a threshold value.
US08331878B2 Efficient CQI signaling MIMO systems with variable numbers of beams
The present invention relates to a multi-beam transmission apparatus and system, and to a method for operating a multi-beam transmission system, wherein a first transmission resource information and a second transmission resource information are determined for respective first and second transmission beam, and wherein a first transmission parameter information and a second transmission parameter information are determined for the respective first and second transmission beams. The first and second transmission resource information and the first and second transmission parameter information are jointly encoded into a joint signal; and the joint signal is transmitted via the first and second transmission beams from a first station to a second station.
US08331873B2 Semiconductor device
In a semiconductor device which can perform data communication through wireless communication, to suppress transmission and the like of an AC signal, the semiconductor device includes an input circuit to which a radio signal is input, a first circuit, which generates a constant voltage, such as a constant voltage circuit or a limiter circuit, a second circuit to which the generated constant voltage is input and which can change impedance of the semiconductor device, and a filter provided between the first circuit and the second circuit. Transmission of an AC signal is suppressed by the filter, and malfunctions or operation defects such as complete inoperative due to variation in the constant voltage is prevented.
US08331867B2 Wireless communication system, wireless communication apparatus and communication control method
A channel estimation and prediction unit 18 estimates a channel and predicts a channel for a next transmission slot. An SVD unit 19 performs singular value decomposition on each channel prediction value. An eigenvalue calculation unit 20 calculates an eigenvalue in a slot, whereas an eigenmode quality calculation unit 21 calculates quality of each eigenmode based on the eigenvalue obtained from the eigenvalue calculation unit 20 and outputs the quality to a transmission adaptive control unit 22. The transmission adaptive control unit 22 recognizes frequency of channel variation based on variation of quality of a lower eigenmode and the likes, and corrects quality of a higher eigenmode to be a smaller value according to the frequency of channel variation being larger with respect to a slot length.
US08331860B2 Control of peripheral devices in a short-range wireless communication system
The invention relates to a mechanism for using services provided by a network in an environment including user-operated short-range wireless terminals and short-range wireless peripheral devices, such as wireless storage units, controllable by the user-operated terminals. A wireless peripheral device is informed that a network providing services is to be accessed, as a result of which the wireless peripheral device accesses the said network. A service is then selected from the infrastructure network by the user-operated terminal, while also indicating that the party requesting the selected service is the peripheral device. The selected service is delivered to the wireless peripheral device through the infrastructure network.
US08331849B2 Method for service management
A method for managing a digital multimedia broadcasting channel includes receiving a broadcast data frame that includes an occurrence change field, and performing a service update responsive to reconfiguration version data defined within the occurrence change field. Alternatively, the method includes transmitting a broadcast data frame that includes an occurrence change field, and causing a receiving terminal to perform a service update for a new channel responsive to reconfiguration version data defined within the occurrence change field. A digital multimedia broadcast terminal includes a receiver for receiving a broadcast data frame that includes an occurrence change field, and a controller configured to generate a control signal causing a service update responsive to reconfiguration version data defined within the occurrence change field.
US08331848B2 Audio broadcast in a network
A wireless communication apparatus and method are provided for operation in a communication network. The wireless communication apparatus comprises a receiver unit operative to receive control data and audio data from an audio gateway; a control unit operative to use the control data to provide a connection between the wireless communication apparatus and the audio gateway for communication of the audio data; and a transmitter unit. The receiver unit is operative to receive from another wireless communication apparatus a request for the control data. The control unit is operative to forward via the transmitter unit the control data to the other wireless communication apparatus in response to the request. The other communication apparatus and a method for requesting the control data are also provided.
US08331844B2 Proof printing using recycled marking material
Methods and systems supply used marking material to a printing device marking material supply container. The used marking material was previously used in a printing process and was previously removed from one or more photoreceptors. The methods/systems feed the used marking material from the material supply container to a photoreceptor within the printing device and transfer the used marking material to a sheet of media in a printing process performed by the printing device that produces “proof prints.” These proof prints are printed sheets that are used to verify content and/or layout of printed material. The proof prints are not required to comply with any print quality or print durability standard. The methods/systems also fuse (using a heating element within the printing device) the used marking material to the sheet of media at a reduced temperature that is insufficient to comply with any print quality or print durability standard.
US08331841B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus
Provided is an image forming apparatus having a fixing device for fixing an image at a nip portion formed of two rotary members which rotate while facing each other, wherein occurrence of uneven print gloss is prevented. The image forming apparatus having a fixing device for fixing an image at a nip portion formed of two rotary members which rotate while facing each other, wherein one of the two rotary members is a belt which rotates while being stretched around of a plurality of rollers, a roller arranged at the exit of the nip portion out of the plurality of rollers has a crown shape, and a slack absorbing member for absorbing a slack of both ends of the belt caused by the crown-shaped roller is in contact with the belt.
US08331836B2 Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and program
A first alignment control unit causes a secondary transfer control unit to bring a transfer-sheet conveying belt and an intermediate transfer belt into contact with each other so as to transfer an alignment control pattern formed on the transfer-sheet conveying belt onto the intermediate transfer belt, whereby alignment for colors C and K is performed on the intermediate transfer belt, and furthermore a second alignment control unit causes the secondary transfer control unit to separate the transfer-sheet conveying belt and the intermediate transfer belt from each other so as to perform alignment for colors Y, M, and C, whereby alignment is performed for all the colors.
US08331828B2 Image forming apparatus including a developing device with toner supply passage having a magnetic field formed inside and toner supply control method using the same
A developing device includes: a first conveying passage (developer conveying passage) through which a developer containing a toner and a magnetic carrier is conveyed; a first conveying member (developer conveying member) provided in the first conveying passage for agitating and conveying the developer in a predetermined direction; and a toner supply pipe for leading supplementary toner to the first conveying passage. The developing device further includes electromagnets for forming a magnetic field inside the toner supply pipe to create a magnetic brush shutter by means of the electromagnets.
US08331823B2 Image forming apparatus including chip having engine processor and basic processor
An image forming apparatus including a chip having an engine processor and a basic processor includes an image forming unit which has an image forming engine and forms an image of given image data, an engine processor to control a driving of the image forming engine, and a basic processor which is integrally provided with the engine processor and controls processes related to image formation except the driving of the image forming engine.
US08331822B2 Image forming apparatus and image forming method of effectively detecting a speed deviation pattern of the image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a plurality of image bearing members, each of which is configured to bear a portion of a pattern image including a plurality of reference images in a given form, an endless moving member facing the plurality of image bearing members and configured to receive the pattern image, an image detecting unit configured to detect the plurality of reference images, a rotational angle detecting unit configured to separately detect each image bearing member at a given rotational angle, and a controller configured to detect a speed deviation pattern for each revolution of each image bearing member. The controller is configured to detect the speed deviation pattern based on a result obtained from a phase component and a quadrature component of a frequency signal generated from the detection result obtained by the rotational angle detecting unit and a result of detecting the plurality of reference images in the pattern image transferred onto the endless moving member.
US08331819B2 Image forming apparatus
The image forming apparatus includes a fixing portion, a temperature detection element, and a power control portion. The power control portion is capable of setting a first power supply control mode for supplying power according to the detected temperature for each one control cycle, a second power supply control mode for supplying power according to the detected temperature for each one control cycle and a third power supply control mode for supplying predetermined power, and switches, immediately before a leading edge of the recording material enters the fixing portion, a state of supplying the power in the first power supply control mode to a state of supplying the power in the second power supply control mode, and then switches the state of supplying the power in the second power supply control mode to a state of supplying the power in the third power supply control mode.
US08331817B2 Image forming apparatus with developer remainder amount detection feature
An image forming apparatus includes a developing device for developing a latent image formed on an image bearing member on the basis of image information, into a developed image with a developer, the developing device including a developer accommodating portion for accommodating the developer and a stirring member for stirring the developer in the developer accommodating portion; an optical remaining amount detecting device for detecting a remaining amount of the developer in the developer accommodating portion, by passing light through an inside of the developer accommodating portion; a consumption amount calculation device for calculating information relating to a consumption amount of the developer on the basis of the image information; and an outputting device for outputting an information signal indicative of a developer remainder which is either one of a developer remainder based on a detection result of the optical remaining amount detecting device and a developer remainder based on the information relating to the consumption amount provided by the consumption amount calculation device, selected in accordance with information relating to continuous drive time of the stirring member after start of drive thereof during image forming operation.
US08331813B2 Image forming apparatus having speed difference control
A image forming apparatus includes a rotatable image bearing body, an exposing unit that irradiates the image bearing body to form a latent image, a developer bearing body that develops the latent image to form a developer image, a transfer unit that transfers the developer image to a recording medium, a feeding unit that feeds the recording medium, a density detecting unit that detects a developer density of the developer image transferred to the recording medium, and a speed difference control unit that controls a difference of a circumferential speed of the image bearing body and a feeding speed of the recording medium fed by the feeding unit. The speed difference is controlled based on a density of a thin line pattern transferred to the recording medium detected by the density detecting unit.
US08331812B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit and a surface reflection detector. The image forming unit includes an image forming station to form a detection sample image and a toner image on a recording medium, a controller to set a detection sample image output mode to output the detection sample image, and a fixing device to fix the detection sample image and the toner image on the recording medium. The surface reflection detector is connected to the controller to detect reflection characteristics of a surface of the recording medium and includes a projector to project parallel light against a target and an angular distribution detector to detect an angular distribution of light reflected from the recording medium and the detection sample image. Based on the detection result, imaging conditions are adjusted and an output image is formed.
US08331810B2 Developing apparatus and image forming machine
The present invention provides a developing apparatus capable of predicting how much carrier is accumulated inside a developer tank beyond the discharge level of a trickle discharging mechanism in the case that images having high coverage ratios are printed out continuously in a trickle developing apparatus that uses a two-component developer. The developing apparatus, having stirring members for conveying and stirring a developer-tank-contained developer and a developer holder, comprises a developer replenishing tank; a discharging mechanism for discharging an excessive amount of the developer-tank-contained developer outside the developer tank when the amount of the developer-tank-contained developer inside the developer tank has exceeded a predetermined amount; and calculating device for calculating the amount of the carrier existing inside the developer tank, and judges using the calculating device that the integrated value of carrier obtained by integrating the amount of the carrier existing inside the developer tank is likely to exceed a predetermined excessive accommodation amount of carrier.
US08331807B2 Toner cartridge storing control data for an image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus mounted with a toner cartridge having a memory unit includes a toner cartridge which stores a plurality of control data depending on toner in the memory unit, an acquisition unit which selects one of the plurality of control data in the memory unit and acquires image formation-related information and a setting unit which sets image formation parameters on the basis of the image formation-related information.
US08331805B2 Digital coherent optical receiver
A digital coherent optical receiver provided with a 90-degree optical hybrid circuit for detecting an in-phase signal and a quadrature signal of an input optical signal, includes first through fourth circuits. The first circuit calculates a square of a sum of the in-phase signal and the quadrature signal. The second circuit subtracts a squared value of the in-phase signal and a squared value of the quadrature signal from the calculation result of the first circuit. The third circuit detects a phase error of the 90-degree optical hybrid circuit based on the calculation result of the second circuit. The fourth circuit corrects at least one of the in-phase signal and the quadrature signal according to the phase error detected by the third circuit.
US08331804B2 Method and apparatus for generating a reference signal level and for cancelling amplifier offset in an optical system
Described is a method and apparatus for generating a mid-level reference signal and for cancelling amplifier offset in an optical communication system without DC-balancing of optical data. The apparatus comprises an optical-to-electrical converter to receive an optical signal and to generate an electrical signal; an amplifier to receive the electrical signal and to generate an output signal based on a reference signal; a feedback mechanism to be enabled during a training phase only and to generate a control signal from the output signal; and a counter logic having a digital-to-analog converter to generate the reference signal based on the control signal.
US08331798B2 Optical m-ary modulator
An optical m-ary modulator includes an optical loop forming a polarization maintaining closed optical path. A loop input-output unit splits linearly polarized input signal light into a first component and a second component and feeds the first and second components into the optical loop in opposite directions. A pair of phase modulators modulate the first and second components according to respective control signals. The loop input-output unit recombines the modulated first and second components. The optical phase bias unit creates a phase difference between the first and second components so that they combine to form an m-ary modulated optical signal. Since the first and second components travel around the same optical path, when they recombine their phases are correctly aligned, making the modulator immune to environmental effects and permitting the use of high-speed optical modulation techniques.
US08331796B2 Method and device for communicating data using a light source
A method is described for driving a light source, particularly a HID lamp (2), the method comprising the steps of: providing a commutating DC current for supplying the lamp; and varying a commutation period (T) in order to transmit data. In an embodiment, the duration of each commutation period (T) is set to be equal to one of two possible values (T1, T2) such as to encode a digital bit.
US08331795B2 Method and apparatus for connecting AC powered switches, current sensors and control devices via two way IR, fiber optic and light guide cables
A method for connecting an AC powered device, which has an optical receiver, with a control circuit, which has an optical transmitter, using at least on optical medium cable includes the steps of terminating the cable at both of its ends, introducing the processed cable between the receiver and transmitter, attaching and securing one end of the processed cable to the transmitter and the other end of the processed cable to the receiver, and propagating a one way optical signal including control commands from the control circuit to the powered device.
US08331791B2 Colorless optical transceiver and optical communication system
A colorless optical transceiver and an optical communication system including the same are disclosed herein. A controlling unit of the colorless optical transceiver forms a control current based on intensity of an external-injection light provided from an external light source. A light source driving unit coupled to the controlling unit forms a driving current based on the control current. An internal light source is coupled to the light source driving unit, the internal light source being configured to receive the external-injection light and the driving current and to convert the driving current into a colorless sending light, wherein a wavelength of the colorless sending light is locked by that of the external-injection light. The light output from the internal light source is controlled based on intensity of external-injection light calculated by using optical loss, which varies according to the distances between optical devices and connection state. Thus, the light output from the colorless optical transceiver and the extinction ratio may be stabilized.
US08331790B2 LED light interior room and building communication system
An LED light and communication system in communication with a broadband over power line communications system. The LED light and communication system includes at least one optical transceiver. The optical transceiver includes a light support having a plurality of light emitting diodes and at least one photodetector attached thereto, and a processor. The processor is in communication with the light emitting diodes and the at least one photodetector. The processor is constructed and arranged to generate a communication signal. The at least one optical transceiver is engaged to a clock, and the clock is in communication with the broadband over power line communications system.
US08331789B2 Operation terminal
An operation terminal includes a communication unit; an operation terminal control unit; a plurality of on-period light-emitting units provided in a one-to-one correspondence to the control switches and controlled by the operation terminal control unit; a plurality of off-period light-emitting units provided in a one-to-one correspondence to the control switches and controlled by the operation terminal control unit to emit light when the load associated with the corresponding one of the control switches by relational data is in an off-state; and a housing. At least one half of the control switches are arranged one above another in a vertical direction and each of the on-period light-emitting units is arranged in such a fashion as to transversely interpose the corresponding one of the control switches between itself and the corresponding one of the off-period light-emitting units when seen from the front side.
US08331786B2 Transmission method of WDM light and WDM optical transmission system
According to the WDM optical transmission system, for optical signals of respective wavelength in a WDM light propagated through a transmission path, a spectrum component at a center wavelength of each optical signal and a spectrum component in the vicinity of the center wavelength thereof are selectively attenuated by a spectrum correction optical filter, so that the WDM light is transmitted in a state where intensity of sideband components in the spectrum of each optical signal is relatively increased. As a result, even if spectrum width of the optical signal of each wavelength is limited when the WDM light passes through the band-limiting device on the transmission path, degradation of transmission characteristics caused by the attenuation of sideband components is reduced.
US08331782B1 Fiber optic network adjustment
A number of fiber optic networks, nodes, and methods are disclosed. One fiber optic network embodiment includes a network module including a star coupler for receiving a signal from a number of nodes and outputting a combined signal, including the received signals, to the number of nodes, and the number of nodes optically connected to the network module, the number of nodes including a transmit module including a first adjustable optical amplifier and a number of optical emitters, a receive module including a second adjustable optical amplifier and a number of receivers, and a controller coupled to the transmit and receive modules for adjusting the first and second optical amplifiers in response to the combined signal.
US08331773B2 Recording medium, playback apparatus, method and program
A plurality of video streams and STN_table are recorded in the local storage 200. Each of the plurality of video streams is a secondary video stream to be played together with a primary video stream, and includes picture data representing a child image to be displayed in Picture in Picture that is composed of a parent image and the child image. In the STN_table, entries of secondary video streams that are permitted to be played are described in the order of priority.
US08331771B2 Method for recording two concurrent a/v input signals
The present invention relates to a method for simultaneously recording two a/v input signals using only a single digital a/v compressor, and an apparatus for reading from and writing to recording media capable of performing such method.This object is achieved by a method for recording a first a/v input signal and a second a/v input signal on a first recording unit for recording compressed digital a/v data, having the steps of: recording the first a/v input signal on the first recording unit; recording the second a/v input signal on the second recording unit; after completing the recording of the first a/v input signal on the first recording unit, reading the second a/v input signal recorded on the second recording unit; and recording the second a/v input signal read from the second recording unit on the first recording unit and/or the second recording unit.
US08331764B2 Recording/reproducing apparatus and method of reconstructing time code
A recording/reproducing apparatus includes a synchronization signal generating part outputting a frame synchronization signal defining a period of a video frame; a timer part measuring a time during a period where a main power supply is being turned off; a time code production part generating a time code based on the frame synchronization signal; a time code storage processing part storing a time code value and time information output from the timer part, when main power supply is turned off; and a time code reconstruction processing part reconstructing the time code, when the main power supply is turned on, by stepping the time code value by an amount corresponding to a period where the main power supply is being turned off based on the time code value and the time information stored and time information at the time of turning on the main power supply.
US08331760B2 Adaptive video zoom
Adaptive video zoom is provided by a method of providing a video content item for viewing by one or more viewers. The method includes identifying one or more objects within the video content item. The method further includes, for each identified object, assigning a searchable descriptor for the object, creating a time stamp indicating one or more time periods within the video content item during which the object occurs, and creating a bounding window defining a region of the video content item within which the object occurs. The searchable descriptor, time stamp, and bounding window are then packaged into metadata associated with the video content item. The method further includes delivering the video content item and the metadata associated with the video content item to a client computing device.
US08331756B2 Method and apparatus for generating data representing digests of pictures
Video data pieces are classified into groups according to prescribed rules. A cut number assigned to each of the groups is decided on the basis of the length or lengths of a video data piece or pieces in each of the groups and the number of the video data piece or pieces in each of the groups. A cut or cuts are extracted from the video data piece or pieces in each of the groups. Regarding each of the groups, the number of the extracted cut or cuts is equal to the decided cut number. Digest data is generated from the extracted cuts for all the groups.
US08331753B2 Fiber optic module and system including rear connectors
A telecommunications assembly including a housing and a plurality of modules mounted within the housing. The modules includes a rear face in which is mounted at least one fiber optic connector. Within an interior of the housing are positioned at least one fiber optic adapters. Inserting the module through a front opening of the housing at a mounting location positions the connector of the module for insertion into and mating with the adapter of the housing. The adapters within the interior of the housing are mounted to a removable holder. A method of mounting a telecommunications module within a chassis.
US08331750B2 Optical fibers having a surface light field emulation (s-LiFE) segment and method of making the same
A modified optical fiber comprises one Surface Light Field Emulation (s-LiFE) segment, comprising a core; a cladding; and multiple controlled nanoscale diffusion centers to emit light through the side of the optical fibers. Optionally, the modified optical fiber has a coating. The nanoscale diffusion centers are physical geometric patterns or composition patterns in the cladding or the coating. The s-LiFE optical fiber is a member of an illumination system further comprising a light source. The method of making of said s-LiFE optical fiber comprises a fiber spooning step.
US08331749B2 Using a waveguide to display information on electronic devices
An electronic device includes an instrument panel that includes a display opening, where the instrument panel is located in a first plane; a circuit board located inside the electronic device, where the circuit board includes a display device that includes a display area, and where the display area is located in a second plane that is different from the first plane; and a waveguide that couples the display area to the display opening and guides light, and/or an image displayed in the display area, from the display area to the display opening.
US08331739B1 Efficient identification and correction of optical character recognition errors through learning in a multi-engine environment
OCR errors are identified and corrected through learning. An error probability estimator is trained using ground truths to learn error probability estimation. Multiple OCR engines process a text image, and convert it into texts. The error probability estimator compares the outcomes of the multiple OCR engines for mismatches, and determines an error probability for each of the mismatches. If the error probability of a mismatch exceeds an error probability threshold, a suspect is generated and grouped together with similar suspects in a cluster. A question for the cluster is generated and rendered to a human operator for answering. The answer from the human operator is then applied to all suspects in the cluster to correct OCR errors in the resulting text. The answer is also used to further train the error probability estimator.
US08331732B2 Binary reduction with structure preservation and density control
A method for performing binary image reduction on binary image data includes receiving binary input image data; determining a conversion factor to scale (i) an input resolution to an output resolution and/or (ii) an input size to an output size; applying the conversion factor to the input image data to obtain intermediate data, where each intermediate data corresponds to at least one input pixel and at least a portion of another input pixel; obtaining a binary output image data comprising a plurality of output pixels by thresholding the corresponding intermediate data; determining an error value for each output pixel, the error value is a non-integer value obtained as a result of thresholding the intermediate data corresponding to the output pixel; and propagating the obtained error value to an adjacent output pixel in a scanline, where the output image data is scaled to the output resolution and/or the output size.
US08331728B1 Methods and apparatus for correlating image frame statistics with image frames from which the statistics were collected
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method that comprises receiving an image frame, determining an image frame identification (ID) for the image frame, collecting image frame statistics comprising at least one type of statistic from the image frame, and correlating the image frame statistics with the image frame ID.
US08331725B2 Panoramic imaging techniques
A wireless device or camera phone device that is adapted to create in the device a larger, panoramic image of two photographic images provided the two images have a common overlapping region. The panoramic image can be created even if the two images are at different rotations or perspectives. The device corrects for any rotational differences prior to creating the panoramic image.
US08331724B2 Methods and arrangements employing mixed-domain displays
An image is encoded to define one or more spatial regions that can be sensed by a suitably-equipped mobile device (e.g., a smartphone), but are imperceptible to humans. When such a mobile device senses one of these regions, it takes an action in response (e.g., rendering an associated tone, playing linked video, etc.). The regions may overlap in layered fashion. One form of encoding employs modification of the color content of the image at higher spatial frequencies, where human vision is not acute. In a particular embodiment, the encoding comprises altering a transform domain representation of the image by adding signal energy in a first chrominance channel, where the added signal energy falls primarily within a segmented arc region in a transform domain space. In another arrangement, a smartphone display presents both image data captured from a scene, and a transform representation of the image data (e.g., in the Fourier domain). This latter information can aid a user in positioning the phone, e.g., to enhance decoding of a steganographic digital watermark. In still another arrangement, foveal filtering is applied to of smartphone-captured image data in connection with other image processing.
US08331719B2 Sharpness enhancing apparatus and method
A sharpness enhancing apparatus include: an edge analyzing unit configured to receive image data separated into brightness signals and color signals, and analyze an edge state by using brightness signals and color signals of cells contained in a specific area; and a sharpness correcting unit configured to calculate a sharpness correction amount by performing a mask operation on a sharpen mask, which is set according to the edge state, and the brightness signals of the cells, sum the calculated sharpness correction amount and the brightness signals of the cells, and correct sharpness of the brightness signals of the cells.
US08331715B2 Digital image processing using face detection information
A method of processing a digital image using face detection within the image achieves one or more desired image processing parameters. A group of pixels is identified that correspond to an image of a face within the digital image. Default values are determined of one or more parameters of at least some portion of the digital image. Values are adjusted of the one or more parameters within the digitally-detected image based upon an analysis of the digital image including the image of the face and the default values.
US08331709B2 Fixed buffer real-time image compression technique
Performing real-time compression on an image for target buffer fullness includes dividing the image into N macro-blocks, performing a discrete cosine transformation (DCT) on each of the N macro-blocks, defining a Quantization Parameter Scalar (Q) for each of the N macro-blocks of the image on the DCT being performed, initializing the Quantization Parameter Scalar (Q) for the first Macro-block to a value that correlates to a buffer fullness of a previously compressed image, and monitoring the buffer fullness by comparing the buffer fullness with the target buffer fullness. The N macro-blocks include 16×16 macro-blocks. The Q value is increased to a first new value when the buffer fullness is greater than the target buffer fullness. The Q value is decreased to a second new value when the buffer fullness is less than the target buffer fullness.
US08331702B2 Data compression device and image reading device
A data compression device includes an encoding unit that generates encoded data by compressing image data in units of a band. Encoded data storage units have addresses for storing encoded data for each band and a settings receipt unit receives start address settings in the storage units. A control unit stores the data in the storage units every time encoded data for each band is generated. A start address acquisition unit acquires the start address of an empty area where encoded data is not stored. The control unit sets the start address of an empty area in a storage unit different from the storage unit where the encoded data that is being generated is to be stored. The encoding unit then starts to generate encoded data for a next band, and stores the generated data in the storage unit indicated by the start address set in the setting receipt unit.
US08331681B1 Generating typefaces through image analysis
Generating typefaces from various images is disclosed in which any image, whether from a still photograph or a video frame, is analyzed to find various patterns existing in the image. These patterns may be evident from the image itself or may be discovered by applying various transforms to the image. The patterns obtained from the image are then compared against existing characters in existing typefaces in trying to find correlations between individual patterns and individual characters of the existing typefaces. When correlations are found, the character image representing the pattern that resembles the existing typeface character is analyzed for various typeface properties, such as weight, width, angle, and the like. Using these determined typeface properties and the visual elements of the character image, an entire set of characters making up a new typeface is generated.
US08331678B2 Systems and methods for identifying a discontinuity in the boundary of an object in an image
Machine vision is used to identify a discontinuity in the boundary of an object in an image. An image of one or more objects is captured. One or more skeletons of the one or more objects are calculated. One or more boundaries of the one or more objects are calculated. A plurality of radial lines is extended from a spine point of a skeleton to the one or more boundaries. Each radial line intersects a boundary at a radial endpoint producing a plurality of radial endpoints. For each radial endpoint an expected radial endpoint is calculated based on two or more neighboring radial endpoints. If the difference between the radial endpoint and its expected radial endpoint exceeds a threshold, a radial line including the radial endpoint is identified as a discontinuity in a boundary of an object.
US08331665B2 Method of electronic color image saturation processing
The novel method of electronic color image processing comprises: inputting an image; obtaining a color (A) based on colors present in at least a first part of the image; and changing a saturation correlate (S2) defined with respect to the color (A) for at least a second part of the image. This allows for better quality saturation modification on a larger number of possible input images.
US08331655B2 Learning apparatus for pattern detector, learning method and computer-readable storage medium
A learning apparatus for a pattern detector, which includes a plurality of weak classifiers and detects a specific pattern from input data by classifications of the plurality of weak classifiers, acquires a plurality of data for learning in each of which whether or not the specific pattern is included is given, makes the plurality of weak classifiers learn by making the plurality of weak classifiers detect the specific pattern from the acquired data for learning, selects a plurality of weak classifiers to be composited from the weak classifiers which have learned, and composites the plurality of weak classifiers into one composite weak classifier based on comparison between a performance of the composite weak classifier and performances of the plurality of weak classifiers.
US08331640B2 Information processing apparatus and its control method and data processing system
In order to provide a technology which allows efficient understanding of images of a disease locus and diagnosis supporting information for the images, an information processing apparatus comprises: an input unit which inputs object identification information for identifying an object; an acquiring unit which acquires one or more schemas related to the object and medical image data related to the schema, an identification unit which identifies a disease locus region in medical image data respectively related to each of the one or more schemas, a time-series schema generating unit which generates a time-series schema of the disease locus, a time-series image data generating unit which generates time-series image data of the disease locus, and a display output unit which synchronizes and outputs the time-series schema of the disease locus and the time-series image data of the disease locus.
US08331639B2 Radiological imaging incorporating local motion monitoring, correction, and assessment
A radiological imaging method comprises: acquiring radiological lines of response (LOR's) from a subject; grouping the acquired LOR's into time intervals such that each group of LOR's (20) was acquired during a selected time interval; identifying a region of interest (60, 74) for each time interval based on LOR's grouped into that time interval; for each time interval, determining a positional characteristic (102) of the region of interest identified for that time interval based on LOR's grouped into that time interval; for each time interval, spatially adjusting LOR's grouped into that time interval based on the positional characteristic of the region of interest identified for that time interval; and reconstructing at least the spatially adjusted LOR's to generate a motion compensated reconstructed image.
US08331637B2 System and method of automatic prioritization and analysis of medical images
A system for analyzing a source medical image of a body organ. The system comprises an input unit for obtaining the source medical image having three dimensions or more, a feature extraction unit that is designed for obtaining a number of features of the body organ from the source medical image, and a classification unit that is designed for estimating a priority level according to the features.
US08331636B2 Automatic calibration of computer aided diagnosis based on retrospective examination
A method for automatic detection of lesions within a medical image include acquiring medical image data. Regions of suspicion are automatically identified within the medical image data. It is automatically determined whether each identified region of suspicion is of a benign state, is of a suspicious state that requires a biopsy, or is of an indeterminate state that requires subsequent imaging after a particular length of time. When an identified region of suspicion is determined to be of an indeterminate state, the determination is automatically reconsidered in light of a calibration factor that biases the automatic determination towards either a benign state or a suspicious state. The calibration factor may be based on data collected from follow-up examinations that reveal whether a lesion previously characterized as indeterminate was actually a benign or malignant lesion or on additional diagnostic information including prior image data or non-image data.
US08331633B2 Method and system for multi-mode mechanical resonator
Provided is a fingerprint sensor including one or more mechanical devices for capturing the fingerprint. The resonators are configured to be mechanically damped based upon an applied load.
US08331632B1 Indexing face templates using linear models
A novel, linear modeling method to model a face recognition algorithm based on the match scores produced by the algorithm. Starting with a distance matrix representing the pair-wise match scores between face images, an iterative stress minimization algorithm is used to obtain an embedding of the distance matrix in a low-dimensional space. A linear transformation used to project new face images into the model space is divided into two sub-transformations: a rigid transformation of face images obtained through principal component analysis of face images and a non-rigid transformation responsible for preserving pair-wise distance relationships between face images. Also provided is a linear indexing method using the linear modeling method to perform the binning or algorithm-specific indexing task with little overhead.
US08331631B2 Method, apparatus, and program for discriminating the states of subjects
A single image is obtained from among a plurality of temporal series images. At least one of a plurality of types of classifiers, each type of classifier judging each of a plurality of predetermined states of a predetermined subject, is employed to discriminate the state of the subject within the obtained image. At least one state is predicted for the subject within the obtained image, based on stepwise changes of the state of the subject obtained by previously discriminated states within temporal series images preceding the obtained image. The classifier corresponding to the predicted state is prioritized or weighted, when applying the classifiers to perform discrimination.
US08331627B2 Method and system for generating an entirely well-focused image of a large three-dimensional scene
A method and system for generating an entirely well-focused image of a three-dimensional scene. The method comprises the steps of a) learning a prediction model including at least a focal depth probability density function (PDF), h(k), for all depth values k, from historical tiles of the scene; b) predicting the possible focal surfaces in subsequent tiles of the scene by applying the prediction model; c) for each value of k, examining h(k) such that if h(k) is below a first threshold, no image is acquired at the depth k′ for said one tile; and if h(k) is above or equal to a first threshold, one or more images are acquired in a depth range around said value of k for said one tile; and d) processing the acquired images to generate a pixel focus map for said one tile.
US08331626B2 Method for estimating material properties of porous media using computer tomographic images thereof
A method for estimating a physical property of a porous material from a sample of the material includes making a three dimensional tomographic image of the sample of the material, segmenting the image into pixels each representing pore space or rock grain, and estimating at least one physical property from the segmented image.
US08331622B2 Automotive display device, vehicle, and display method with 3-D perspective image
An automotive display device, which allows the user to easily recognize the sameness of an information image even if the shape of the image is changed, is realized. An automotive display device (1) includes a display section (13) for displaying a vehicle information image including information regarding a vehicle. The vehicle information image is a 3-D image. The automotive display device (1) further includes an image processing section (113) for generating a vehicle information image seen from a fixed viewpoint, an image display processing section (114) for displaying the vehicle information image on the display section (13), and an ETC information detection section (21) that detects a driving condition of the vehicle. The image processing section (113) rotates the vehicle information image around a predetermined axis and for a predetermined angle, in accordance with ETC information obtained by the ETC information detecting section (21).
US08331618B1 Method and apparatus for monitoring instant messaging with visual identification
Method and apparatus for monitoring instant messaging with visual identification are described. In some examples, monitoring of instant message (IM) traffic at a node on a network is performed. Video content in the IM traffic is detected at the node. A facial recognition analysis is performed on the video content to extract at least one image having human facial features. At least one user identity is extracted from the IM traffic. The at least one image and the at least one user identity are stored in a log implemented in a memory on the network.
US08331617B2 Robot vision system and detection method
A robot vision system for outputting a disparity map includes a stereo camera for receiving left and right images and outputting a disparity map between the two images; an encoder for encoding either the left image or the right image into a motion compensation-based video bit-stream; and a decoder for extracting an encoding type of an image block, a motion vector, and a DCT coefficient from the video bit-stream. Further, the system includes a person detector for detecting and labeling person blocks in the image using the disparity map between the left image and the right image, the block encoding type, and the motion vector, and detecting a distance from the labeled person to the camera; and an obstacle detector for detecting a closer obstacle than the person using the block encoding type, the motion vector, and the DCT coefficient extracted from the video bit-stream, and the disparity map.
US08331612B2 Method and system for document annotation that includes outlining
A method for producing an electronic annotated document including embedding annotation information into an electronic annotation object having image data including an annotation, and producing the electronic annotated document using pixel information from the electronic document and the electronic annotation object. The annotation embedded information may be used to select corresponding pixel information from one of the electronic annotated object and electronic document to be provided in the electronic annotated document. A system and tangible storage medium having machine-readable instructions for producing an electronic annotated document are also disclosed.
US08331609B2 Method and system for temporal synchronization
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, apparatus and system for temporal synchronization of digital content based on a marker symbol and a marker code. A marker symbol is inserted at an identifiable location of a payload (e.g., the beginning and/or end of a payload) at regular intervals in the digital content and the payload is marker coded to form a periodic sequence. The payload is marker coded such that the maker symbol is not repeated by the coded payload. The periodic sequence is then embedded into digital content. A decoder is able to re-synchronize the payload by determining the location of the marker symbol. As such, a method, apparatus and system is provided for robust temporal synchronization for, for example, content encoding and decoding for applications such as audio and video water-marking and the like.
US08331605B2 Voice coil and loudspeaker using the same
A loudspeaker includes a frame, a magnetic circuit, a voice coil bobbin and a voice coil. The magnetic circuit defines a magnetic gap. The frame is mounted on a side of the magnetic circuit. The voice coil bobbin is received in the magnetic gap. The voice coil is wound around the voice coil bobbin. The voice coil includes a lead wire. The lead wire includes a linear carbon nanotube structure and an insulated layer. The insulated layer is coated on the linear carbon nanotube structure.
US08331604B2 Electro-acoustic conversion apparatus
According to one embodiment, A microphone-earphone includes a speaker connected to an acoustic device configured to measure acoustic characteristics of a listener's external auditory canal, and configured to output an acoustic signal toward the listener's external auditory canal, a microphone device disposed outside the listener's external auditory canal, an acoustic tube including one end connected to the microphone device and the other end opening to the listener's external auditory canal, and a housing including an opening portion which accommodates the speaker and is so disposed as to guide sound, which is output from the speaker, to the listener's external auditory canal. An inside diameter of the acoustic tube is less than a diameter of the opening portion.
US08331595B2 Hearing instrument with improved venting and miniature loudspeaker therefore
The present invention relates to improvements in acoustical venting of hearing aid earmolds and to miniature loudspeakers with housing structures configured to support improved hearing aid venting. The miniature loudspeaker comprises a front chamber with first and second separate sound ports so as to allow the front chamber to form an integral part of the acoustical vent of the hearing aid earmold. Thus, while using the same opening in the hearing aid for both sound output and venting, sound from the outside of the hearing aid may be introduced into the users ear via the same opening.
US08331590B2 Delay time calculation apparatus and method
A delay time calculation apparatus enabling all the speaker units of a delay array type speaker array to contribute to formation of a combined wavefront. Sound receiving points for acoustic waves output from the speaker units are set within a target area for the acoustic waves. For each speaker unit, an average value of differences between distances between the sound receiving points for the speaker units and other speaker units and distances between the sound receiving points for the speaker units and the speaker units is determined, and an average value of differences between distances from the other speaker units to sound receiving points for the other speaker units and distances from the speaker units to the sound receiving points for the other speaker units is determined. An average of the average values is converted into a delay time, thereby determining the delay time for each speaker unit.
US08331587B2 Thermoacoustic module, thermoacoustic device, and method for making the same
A thermoacoustic module includes a substrate, at least one first electrode, at least one second electrode, at least one first conductive bonding layer, at least one second conductive bonding layer, and a sound wave generator. The sound wave generator is electrically connected to and span across the at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode. The at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode are located on the substrate. The at least one first conductive bonding layer is located on the at least one first electrode. The at least one second conductive bonding layer is located on the at least one second electrode. The sound wave generator is spaced from the substrate and embedded in the at least one first and the at least one second conductive bonding layers.
US08331586B2 Thermoacoustic device
A thermoacoustic device includes a substrate, at least one first electrode, at least one second electrode and a sound wave generator. The at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode are disposed on the substrate. The sound wave generator is contacting with the at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode. The sound wave generator is suspended on the substrate via the first electrode and the second electrode. The sound wave generator includes a carbon nanotube structure.
US08331584B2 Capacitor microphone and impedance converter therefor
An impedance converter for a capacitor microphone includes: a vacuum tube that receives an output signal from a capacitor microphone unit through a grid and with which the signal is output as an output from a cathode follower; an FET in cascade connection with the vacuum tube and that defines a current flowing in the vacuum tube; and a bias circuit that applies a bias voltage to the grid of the vacuum tube. The bias circuit includes: a first diode and a second diode that apply the bias voltage to the grid of the vacuum tube; the first diode and the second diode being connected in inverse parallel; and a bias resistor for applying the bias voltage at a constant level to the grid of the vacuum tube via the first diode or the second diode.
US08331567B2 Methods and apparatuses for generating dynamic pairwise master keys using an image
A method to generate a pairwise master key for use in establishing a wireless connection is presented. In one embodiment, the method comprises determining a region in an image. The method further comprises generating the pairwise master key based at least on contents of the region in the image.
US08331566B1 Media transmission and management
In general, techniques and systems for transmitting media objects to a media sharing service are described. In one example, a method includes generating, by a computing device, a unique identifier that identifies a media object and is associated with a placeholder object, wherein the media object is of a higher fidelity than the placeholder object, and generating, by the computing device, a media share request that commands a media sharing service to create a network-accessible post, wherein the media share request comprises the unique identifier and the placeholder object. The method also includes transmitting the media share request to the media sharing service and subsequently transmitting the media object and the unique identifier to the media sharing service, wherein the unique identifier enables the media sharing service to replace the placeholder object in the network accessible post with the media object once the media object has been received.
US08331564B2 Method for generating downlink frame, and method for searching cell
The present invention relates to a method of generating a downlink frame. The method of generating the downlink frame includes: generating a first short sequence and a second short sequence indicating cell group information; generating a first scrambling sequence and a second scrambling sequence determined by the primary synchronization signal; generating a third scrambling sequence determined by a short sequence group-a wireless communication system uses a plurality of short sequences and the plurality of short sequences are grouped into a plurality of short sequence group-to which the first short sequence is assigned; scrambling the first short sequence with the first scrambling sequence and scrambling the second short sequence with the second scrambling sequence and the third scrambling sequence; and mapping the secondary synchronization signal that includes the scrambled first short sequence and the scrambled second short sequence to a frequency domain.
US08331563B2 System and method for providing secure communication of sensitive information
A system and method for providing secure communication of sensitive information is provided. A crypto key unique to an implantable medical device is dynamically generated on a programmer. Sensitive information for the implantable medical device is encrypted using the crypto key. A telemetry connection of at least one of a short range and a long range is established between the implantable medical device and the programmer. The encrypted sensitive information is transmitted to the implantable medical device via the telemetry connection. The crypto key is transmitted to the implantable medical device via the telemetry connection at short range.
US08331561B2 Fast switching between digital video sources
A sink may be to used to process multimedia digital data. The sink may include a plurality of input ports, an output port, a switchably-enabled selector to select an input port from a plurality of HDMI input ports to couple to an output port, a control circuit to detect encrypted data in a channel of the input ports; and a plurality of decryption engines. Each of the decryption engines may be coupled to respective input ports to synchronize with a corresponding encryption engine of a data source after the control circuit detects encrypted data in the channel of the respective input port. Additional circuitry may be included to operate the sink in a power saving mode. Also, methods for processing the data in both power saving and non-power saving modes.
US08331558B2 Method of cipher block chaining using elliptic curve cryptography
The method of cipher block chaining using elliptic curve cryptography allows for the encryption of messages through elliptic curve cryptography and, particularly, with the performance of cipher block chaining utilizing both the elliptic curve and its twist, regardless of whether the elliptic curve and its twist are isomorphic with respect to one another. The method of performing elliptic curve cryptography is based on the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem. It is well known that an elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem is a computationally “difficult” or “hard” problem.
US08331556B2 Asymmetrical method of encryption or signature verification
The invention proposes a method and a device for decrypting an encrypted message represented by a sequence C or applying an electronic signature to a sequence C, said sequence C consisting of data belonging to a finite field K=GF(q), where q>1, in which there are processed successive blocks each comprising (n·d) successive data items from the sequence C, where n and d are predetermined integers greater than 1, the processing of such a block including the following steps: applying a predetermined affine invertible transformation t−1 to said block; interpreting the resulting block as being formed of n successive elements (y1, y2, . . . , yn) of an extension E=GF(qd) of the field K; calculating an n-tuplet (x1, x2, . . . , xn) of elements of the field E by solving a system f of n predetermined polynomials of the form y k = ∑ 1 ≤ i ≤ j ≤ n ⁢ ⁢ a k ( ij ) ⁢ x i q α i ⁢ x j q β j ⁢ + ∑ 1 ≤ i ≤ n ⁢ ⁢ b k i ⁢ x i q γ ⁢ ⁢ i + c k ⁡ ( 1 ≤ k ≤ n ) in which the coefficients ak(ij), bk(i), and ck belong to E and the exponents αi, βj, and γi are positive or zero integers; interpreting said n-tuplet (x1, x2, . . . , xn)as being a new block formed of (n·d) successive elements from the field K; and applying a predetermined affine invertible transformation s−1 to said new block.
US08331555B1 Hardware-implemented MD5 function
An MD5 processing apparatus is a hardware-implemented MD5 process in a programmable device such as an FPGA or the like. The programmable device is programmed to include four processing engines, each of which performs a single MD5 stage having four MD5 operations performed by the MD5 stage. Each stage begins with four 32-bit values in an A register, a B register; a C register; and a D register. These values are processed using four sub-stages in the MD5 stage using a number of adders along with fixed nonlinear function processing units and fixed 32-bit-shift units. The fixed nonlinear function processing units in a given stage implement only the nonlinear function needed for the MD5 round being performed by the stage. Likewise, each fixed 32-bit-shift unit uses direct bit routing to effect bit shifts taking advantage of the cyclic nature of shifts required by the MD5 hashing algorithm.
US08331554B2 Method for pivotably adjusting a first portion of a device in two directions relative to a second portion of the device
A method for pivotably adjusting a first portion of a device in two directions relative to a second portion of the device includes: rotating the first portion relative to the second portion, about a first pivoting axis of a biaxially pivotable hinge and a uniaxially pivotable hinge, to be in a closed position (or a first open position) whereby the uniaxially pivotable hinge automatically deepens engagement when opened about the first pivoting axis; and rotating the first portion relative to the second portion about a second pivoting axis of the biaxially pivotable hinge to be in the closed position (or a second open position) whereby urging of the first portion relative to the second portion causes automatic disengagement of the uniaxially pivotable hinge.
US08331552B2 Detection of double talk in telecommunications networks
In one embodiment, the presence of double talk (DT) is detected in a telecommunications network having a near-end user and a far-end user. The energies of both (1) a signal received from the far-end user by the near-end user and (2) a signal to be communicated from the near-end user to the far-end user are computed. An echo return loss (ERL) estimate is calculated based on the energy calculations, and a preliminary decision is made as to whether DT is present based on the ERL estimate and the energy calculations. If DT is detected, then a counter is set to a hangover value. If DT is not detected, then the counter is reduced. This process is repeated, and, for each iteration, a final decision as to whether DT is present is made based on the counter value.
US08331549B2 System and method for integrated workforce and quality management
Methods and systems are presented for integrating workforce management and quality monitoring. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: receiving information about a skill; capturing a plurality of contacts made by an agent; receiving an evaluation of the contacts; and updating the skill information based on the evaluation. The skill is associated with an agent, and the evaluation measures the agent skill. In another embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: receiving information about a skill; capturing a plurality of contacts made by an agent; receiving an evaluation form for the contacts; and updating the form based on the skill information. The skill is associated with an agent, and the form produces a measurement of the agent skill.
US08331546B2 Enhanced services provided using communication redirection and processing
Processing a communication is disclosed. A first request to establish communication is received at a redirection node from a requesting communication participant. A destination communication participant associated with the request is determined. A communication session in which the requesting communication participant, the redirection node, and the destination communication participant are participants at the same time is established, including sending from the redirection node to an equipment associated with the destination communication participant a second request to establish communication between the redirection node and the equipment associated with the destination communication participant. A communication session processing feature not provided with respect to the communication session by a telecommunication service provider associated with a service provider network used to establish and provide the communication session is made available to at least one of the requesting communication participant and the destination communication participant.
US08331543B2 Resynchronization of call events after trigger event
Client devices/applications associated with a subscriber of an enhanced communication system are enabled to generate communication records identifying individual communication sessions along with tie-breaker values such that the records can be evaluated following a trigger event and duplicate records for the same subscriber can be removed in order to provide accurate information to the subscriber when the event is over.
US08331535B2 Graphite backscattered electron shield for use in an X-ray tube
The present invention is a shielded anode having an anode with a surface facing an electron beam and a shield configured to encompass the anode surface. The shield has at least one aperture and an internal surface facing the anode surface. The shield internal surface and anode surface are separated by a gap in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. The shield of the present invention is fabricated from a material, such as graphite, that is substantially transmissive to X-ray photons.
US08331534B2 Monochromatic X-ray methods and apparatus
According to some aspects, an x-ray apparatus for imaging and/or radiation therapy is provided, the x-ray apparatus comprises an electron source capable of generating electrons, at least one first target arrange to receive electrons from the electron source, the at least one first target comprising material that, in response to being irradiated by the electrons, emits broad spectrum x-ray radiation, at least one second target arranged to receive at least some of the broad spectrum x-ray radiation, the at least one second target comprising material that, in response irradiation by broad spectrum x-ray radiation from the first target, emits monochromatic x-ray radiation, and at least one detector position to detect at least some of the monochromatic x-ray radiation emitted from the at least one second target. According to some aspects, a relatively low cost, relatively small footprint x-ray apparatus for generating monochromatic x-ray radiation suitable for medical/clinical purposes and appropriate for use in existing medical facilities such as hospitals and/or small clinical settings is provided.
US08331529B2 X-ray beam z-axis positioning
A medical imaging system includes an x-ray source (112) having a focal spot that emits radiation that traverses an examination region (108). The position of the focal spot along a longitudinal direction is a function of a temperature of one or more x-ray source components. The system further includes a detector (120) that detects the radiation and a collimator (116), disposed between the x-ray source (112) and the examination region (108), that collimates that radiation along the longitudinal direction. A focal spot position estimator (132) dynamically computes an estimated position of the focal spot along the longitudinal direction based on the temperature of one or more x-ray source components. A collimator positioner (128) positions the collimator (116) along the longitudinal direction based on the estimated focal spot position prior to performing a scan.
US08331522B2 Maintenance and repair device for structure inside nuclear reactor
A maintenance/repair device for reactor internal structure 6 of the present invention includes a device body 6a configured to be fixed on a reactor internal structure 49. Connected to the device body 6a is a welding-part repair mechanism 6b configured to repair a welding part 49a of the reactor internal structure 49. Thus, a welding part 2a of the reactor internal structure 49 can be repaired by the welding-part repair mechanism 6b, while the device body 6a is fixed on the reactor internal structure 49.
US08331520B2 Phase-locked loop circuit and communication apparatus
A PLL circuit of which low power consumption and miniaturization are satisfied at the same time is provided. A phase comparator of the PLL circuit includes a counter and a time-to-digital converter. The counter receives a reference clock signal and a low frequency clock signal obtained by dividing an output of a digital controlled oscillator, and a high frequency clock signal. The counter detects a phase difference between the reference clock signal and the low frequency clock signal by counting the clock number of the high frequency clock signal. The time-to-digital converter receives the reference clock signal and the low frequency clock signal. The time-to-digital converter detects the phase difference between the reference clock signal and the low frequency clock signal to the accuracy of a time period shorter than a cycle of the high frequency clock signal, after the output of counter reaches a predetermined range.
US08331511B2 System and method for compensating for nonlinear interference cancellation in multi-carrier transmission
An aspect of the present invention is drawn to a receiver operable to receive a first signal transmitted on a first carrier and to receive a second signal transmitted on a second carrier. The receiver includes a first filter, a second filter and a nonlinear compensator. The first filter is arranged to receive the first signal and to generate a first filtered signal. The second filter is arranged to receive the second signal and to generate a second filtered signal. The nonlinear compensator is arranged to output a first compensating signal based on the first filtered signal and the second filtered signal and to output a second compensating signal based on the first filtered signal and the second filtered signal. Further, the nonlinear compensator can reduce one of nonlinear interference within the first filtered signal and nonlinear interference between the first filtered signal and the second filtered signal.
US08331498B2 Blind modulation detection
In receiving a radio block comprising a plurality of bursts, burst data is saved prior to demodulating each burst using an independent preliminary modulation technique decision. When a global modulation technique decision over the radio burst is formulated, if the preliminary modulation technique decision for one or more bursts disagrees, data associated with that burst may be retrieved and demodulated using the global modulation technique decision. In one embodiment, the mismatching burst is erased and decoding over the block is attempted, with the second demodulation being performed only if a decoding metric indicates decode errors. In another embodiment, each mismatching block is re-demodulated as soon as a global modulation technique decision is formulated and a mismatch to the preliminary modulation technique decision is detected. In both embodiments, an increase in the number of soft bits improves decoder performance.
US08331496B2 Phase recovery device, phase recovery method and receiver for 16 QAM data modulation
The present invention relates to a phase recovery device, phase recovery method and receiver for 16 QAM data modulation. The phase recovery device comprises: a fourth power calculator for calculating fourth power values of respective symbols in a symbol block; a classification unit for classifying respective symbols in the symbol block based on amplitudes, so as to classify respective symbols in the symbol block into a first category having a large or small amplitude, and a second category having an intermediate amplitude; a reference point determination unit for determining a reference point based on categories of respective symbols in the symbol block and their fourth power values; a rotation unit for rotating respective symbols in the symbol block undergone the fourth power operations and being classified into the second category, based on the reference point; and a phase estimation unit for performing phase estimations based on respective symbols in the symbol block undergone the fourth power operations and being classified into the first category, and respective rotated symbols in the symbol block undergone the fourth power operations and being classified into the second category.
US08331492B2 Device and method for determining the deviation of the carrier frequency of a mobile radio device from the carrier frequency of a base station
A device for determination of the frequency discrepancy (105) between a mobile radio and a base station which is transmitting a sequence of symbols, having a unit (6-11) for calculation of terms, with one term being formed from two symbols in the sequence received by the mobile radio, and in which case the phase difference of the two symbols can be determined from the term, a unit (14, 15) for formation of groups from the terms, with one term being assigned to one group on the basis of features of the symbols on which it is based, and a unit (39) for calculation of the discrepancy (105) on the basis of a group.
US08331487B2 Analog signal processor for nonlinear predistortion of radio-frequency signals
RF predistortion apparatus for making linear the output signal of non-linear components such as RF power amplifiers. The apparatus comprises an RF input line for carrying an RF signal connected to an envelope detector for finding the envelope of the RF signal, a power detector for finding the power of the RF signal and a quadrature modulator. The apparatus also comprises a coefficient vector input line for carrying an input signal that carries one or more coefficients to a digitally controlled analog subsystem (DCAS). The DCAS having circuitry for processing both the output of the envelope detector and the output of the power detector by selecting one or more coefficients from the coefficient vector input line for generating a weighted summation of the power of the RF signal and a weighted summation of the envelope voltage of the RF signal that are output to the quadrature modulator. The quadrature modulator has circuitry for mixing the RF input signal with the output of the DCAS to generate a signal for predistorting the RF input signal feeding the power amplifier.
US08331482B2 System and method for subcarrier allocation and permutation
A subcarrier allocation method for use by a transmitter, the transmitter being configured to, when transmitting first and second data streams, allocate pilot symbols for the first and second data streams to subcarriers, such that a first plurality of subcarriers carry the pilot symbols for the first data stream and a second plurality of subcarriers carry the pilot symbols for the second data stream. The method includes allocating, when the transmitter transmits the first data stream but does not transmit the second data stream, the second plurality of subcarriers to carry no formation or information relating to the first data stream.
US08331480B2 Method of and generator for generating preamble sequences in communication systems
A method forms a preamble sequence in a wireless communication system. The method comprises determining a value K related to a time-domain characteristic of the wireless communication system so that a time-domain preamble sequence includes a number of K waveforms similar in shape to one another having a linear phase shift, identifying a first preamble sequence for a first band, the first preamble sequence having a first length not dividable by K, identifying at least one second preamble sequence each for a second band, the at least one second preamble sequence having at least one second length, identifying the length of a third preamble sequence, the length of the third preamble sequence equal to a sum of the first length and the at least one second length, determining whether the time-domain characteristic is maintained when the one or more of the at least one second preamble sequence is concatenated with the first preamble sequence, modifying one or more of the at least one second preamble sequence if the time-domain characteristic is not maintained when concatenated, and forming the third preamble sequence by concatenating the first preamble sequence and the at least one second preamble sequence having one or more second preamble sequence modified.
US08331477B2 Progressive parallel interference canceller and method and receiver thereof
A progressive parallel interference canceller (PPIC) and a method and a receiver thereof are illustrated. The PPIC reconstructs each subchannel interference reconstruction signal through several iterations and subtracts the corresponding subchannel interference reconstruction signal from each subchannel frequency-domain reception signal to obtain a subchannel frequency-domain signal. Thereby, according to the present disclosure, inter-channel interference can be cancelled without re-performing channel coding or estimating the signal to noise ratio (SNR) or frequency offset.
US08331469B2 Method and system for pre-equalization in a single weight (SW) single channel (SC) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system
In wireless systems, a method and system for pre-equalization in a single weight (SW) single channel (SC) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system are provided. A first receive antenna and at least one additional receive antenna may receive a plurality of SC communication signals transmitted from at least two transmit antennas. Estimates of the propagation channels between transmit and receive antennas may be performed concurrently and may be determined from baseband combined channel estimates. Channel weights may be determined to modify the signals received by the additional receive antennas. Pre-equalization weight parameters may be determined to modify subsequent signals transmitted from the transmit antennas. The pre-equalization weight parameters may be based on the propagation channel estimates and may be determined by LMS, RLS, DMI, or by minimizing a cost function. Closed loop transmit diversity may also be supported.
US08331465B2 Adaptive two-dimensional channel interpolation
A method and apparatus for improving channel estimation within an OFDM communication system. Channel estimation in OFDM is usually performed with the aid of pilot symbols. The pilot symbols are typically spaced in time and frequency. The set of frequencies and times at which pilot symbols are inserted is referred to as a pilot pattern. In some cases, the pilot pattern is a diagonal-shaped lattice, either regular or irregular. The method first interpolates in the direction of larger coherence (time or frequency). Using these measurements, the density of pilot symbols in the direction of faster change will be increased thereby improving channel estimation without increasing overhead. As such, the results of the first interpolating step can then be used to assist the interpolation in the dimension of smaller coherence (time or frequency).
US08331462B2 Method and apparatus for selective disregard of co-channel transmissions on a medium
A method and apparatus to selectively disregard co-channel transmissions on a medium uses an automatic gain control/clear channel assessment (AGC/CCA) circuit to gather signal power information, which is used to establish receiver sensitivity thresholds. Raw and cyclical power measurements of a received signal are processed by the AGC/CCA circuit to determine whether a current received signal process should be halted, and a new signal acquisition sequence begun.
US08331459B2 Method and apparatus for smooth digital media playback
In one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus may comprise a memory to receive original video data that includes a continuity of time stamps and a discontinuity of time stamps. A processor may shift a first time stamp from the continuity of time stamps to the discontinuity of time stamps by an adaptively modified distance and play the shifted time stamp in a smooth fashion.
US08331456B2 System and method for audio and visual synchronization
Presented herein is a system, method, and apparatus for audio and video synchronization. In one embodiment, there is presented a method for displaying audio data and video data. The method comprises examining a plurality of portions of the audio data, where each of said plurality of portions of audio data is associated with a time stamp; examining a plurality of portions of the video data, where each of said plurality of portions of the video data is associated with a time stamp; decoding one of the portions of the video data; and decoding one of the portions of the audio data while decoding the one of the portions of the video data. The difference between the time stamp associated with the one of the portions of the video data and the time stamp associated with the one of the portions of the audio data is within a certain margin of error from a predetermined offset.
US08331451B2 Method and apparatus for enhancing resolution of video image
Provided is a technology which can prevent deterioration of image quality when enhancing resolution of a predetermined key frame in a video sequence. Specifically, an apparatus to enhance resolution of a video frame is provided. The apparatus includes a frame extraction unit which extracts a key frame and one or more neighboring frames of the key frame from a video sequence; an upsampling unit which upsamples the key frame and the neighboring frames; a motion-vector search unit which calculates a motion vector of the upsampled key frame using the upsampled neighboring frames as reference frames; and a key-frame estimation unit which enhances quality of the upsampled key frame using temporal information obtained from the motion vector and spatial information in the key frame.